"click here"

Artist: Ryan Shaw                                                                            

Album: This Is Ryan Shaw

How many times does a debut album score a Grammy nomination? Not often, but R&B artist Ryan Shaw’s debut "This Is Ryan Shaw" did just that. It is old school tradition and phenomenal vocals that make this album soar to the top. Shaw started as a five year old member of his siblings gospel band, then ventured into musicals in his teens and now just 26 years old has found his niche. Shaw can make a Motown sound, but although he includes two covers on this album, "Lookin For A Love" (Bobby Womack) and a Jackie Wilson tune, "I’ll Be Satisfied" all the rest are originals. Shaw’s talents are great and this album spans decades of sound that melds generations together in harmonious accord. This is a must listen to album, even if you aren’t a die hard R&B fan, you’ll enjoy this one.  Go here:  Ryan Shaw

Written by Jane E. Powell

Artist: Becky Schlegel                                                                          

Album: For All The World To See

From the moment I heard this album, I knew I’d found something I’d been searching for. That something is someone who could sing as well as Dolly Parton. Becky Schlegel fits the bill to a tee. Her vocals are simply amazing. Her abilities to soar to the clouds with her beautiful soprano voice is simply mesmerizing. Now, to get back down to earth, Schlegel has been involved in music for many years and "For All The World To See" is her first national debut. It’s a mix of bluegrass, americana and a little bit of country. Instrumentally, it includes banjo, slide guitar and steel guitar. Throw in a couple of acoustic guitars and this 11 song album will wind up covering many different moods. From the toe tapping " Best Time of The Day" to the sentimental "Jenny" that rings with rocking chair picking, to the melancholy "Lonely." Schlegel has written all the songs on the album and co-produced it with Brian Fesler. Schlegel has been recognized by the International Bluegrass Association’s Songwriters’ Showcase and has been a frequent guest on National Public Radio’s "A Prairie Home Companion." This national release is going to put Schlegel on the top of the list of new artists to watch in 2008.  Go here:  Becky Schlegel

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

1. For All The World To See

11. Hills of South Dakota

Artist: Drive-By Truckers                                                                  

Album: Brighter Than Creation’s Dark EP

Drive-By Truckers have been around for a while now, true to their previous releases "Brighter Than Creation’s Dark" is full of the same textures and sounds that fans instantly recognize. Driving rhythms and up front country vocals mixed with a southern rock flair. The Truckers can really hone in on catchy lyrics that tell the story of their experiences and they have an ability to capture the essence of life. Granted I received a four track EP and sampling of the 19 track album. It seems to me that the album delves into a bit of Tom Waits like sounds with "The Opening Act." Singable as it can be is "The Righteous Path " has an early 70's mainstream rock feel throughout and is enjoyable. When the DBT’s cut loose on "Self Destructive Zones" it is DBT without a doubt, toe tapping and country/rock to the core. My favorite is "Two Daughters and A Beautiful Wife" filled with lap steel and banjo picking, its chorus ringing "two daughters and a beautiful wife" has a very airy, ethereal tone. Yes, Drive-By Truckers have found their niche and don’t need to change one single iota in my humble opinion.  Go here:  Drive-By Truckers

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

4. Two Daughters and a Beautiful Wife

Artist: Randy Thompson                                                                    

Album: Further On

Go here:  Randy Thompson

Rating: 10 out of 10

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

10. Further On

Artist: The Hives                                                                        

Album: The Black & White Album                                                         

True to form The Hives have created another wonderful piece of garage rock much closer in sound to their second album Veni Vidi Vicious.  Filled with driving, fast paced vocals and endearing youthful lyrics, their music has already made its way into television commercials, with the first hit single "Tick Tick Boom." This number is very commercial, but oh, so good! This fourth CD and elements of electronic sounds in a song or two show The Hives have the stamina to try a new thing or two, just for the fun of it. And the creative talents of band that always dresses in black and white are filled with the stability of all original band members and the talents of songwriter Randy Fitzsimmons. Fizsimmons apparently helped form the band in 1993 in Sweden and has been as loyal to creating the sounds of The Hives as they have been to the image. The Black & White Album has that sense of urgency and rawness that was Veni Vidi Vicious had but their third album, Tyrannosaurus Hives always lacked. "Black and White" is filled with 14 tracks and has plenty of material to release numerous singles. Favorites are "Hey Little World," "T.H.E. H.I.V.E.S.," and "You Got It All ...Wrong" are strong contenders for that next big hit. This album is has all the elements that make rock n roll fresh, repeated choruses, making us sing along with The Hives and the pounding of the drums. Go here:  The Hives

14. Bigger Hole to Fill

Artist: Lisa O’Kane

Album: It Don’t Hurt

Release: 10-23-07

Lisa O’Kane new album "It Don’t Hurt" is filled with straight forward americana music.  She's been selling out her tours in England and her third release is fantastic. O’Kane’s voice has the ability to blend energy, languidness and mellowness as the need arises in her music. Its clarity is distinct and ear pleasing. The album moves from the John Denver likeness of "Speed Of The Sound Of Loneliness" to "Give Me This Night," one that Reba Mc Entire could have recorded. My favorite song in the album is "Misery And Happiness" it is a bluegrass tune that echoes of heartache and lost love. The melodious "I’m Done" highlights O’Kane’s capabilities, her ease at reaching the difficult twists and changes in vocal range really captures the listeners senses as does the "Uninvited Guests." The title track "It Don’t Hurt" is a poignant account of abuse and the choice to leave and seek refuge elsewhere. The gospel based "Pay For My Sins" is one that a R&B artist better snap up pretty quick, O’Kane doesn’t follow a blues sound with this one, as she stays true to her own calling. It would be sensational for a blues based band. O’Kane is versatile and "Paper Thin" is tinged with a European flavor instrumentally. The album concludes with a romantic song, "Remember This." Besides being a vocalist, O’Kane has co-written three of the songs on the album. This is a nice album and its filled with well-written songs that literally crosses into multiple genres as that is what americana is truly made of, it’s a keeper.   Go here:  Lisa O' Kane

Rating:  8 out of 10. 

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks: 

 1.  Ain't Done Nothin'

 2.  Speed Of The Sound Of Loneliness

 3.  Give Me This Light

 4.  Misery And Happiness

 5.  I'm Done

 6.  It Don't Hurt

 7.  Got The Car Running

 8.  Uninvited Guests

 9.  Pay For My Sins

10.  Paper Thin

11.  Remember This

Artist: Jeff Griffith

Album: If It Ain’t One Thing It’s Another

Traditional country music done right is what you have to say when you listen to Jeff Griffith’s new album "If It Ain’t One Thing It’s Another." Naturally talented, Griffith started appearing on stage and wooing the audience at the age of 15. The years passed as Griffith ran his own business and had a family. Playing country music whenever he could work a show in. His manager had country legend Joe Stampley listen to him play one day. From that moment on plans were in the works to record Griffith and make an album. Stampley actually produces Griffith’s debut, which has scored some top marks on the radio waves already. The first single, "Drinkin’ Thing" was actually recorded first by the late Gary Stewart. Joe Stampley co-wrote two of the albums 11 songs, "Whiskey Talkin’ and the title track "If It Ain’t One Thing It’s Another." Purists of country are going to be quite pleased when they hear the rich, smooth tones of this album contains. Go here:  Jeff Griffith

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

1. It Ain’t The Clothes That Make The Man (It’s The Woman)

11. If It Ain’t One Thing It’s Another

Artist: Mountain Heart

Album: Road That Never Ends ~The Live Album

Mountain Heart has making bluegrass music since 1998. Since then they’ve been awarded ACMs, CMAs and IBMAs and band members have received Grammys. They’ve played on the Grand Ole Opry many, many times and shared the stage with just about every country music legend. This year’s live release, simply rolls out the favorites and brings its own essence of spontanaity that only appearing on a stage in front of adoring bluegrass fans can make. Band members are Jim Van Cleave on fiddle, Adam Steffey on mandolin, Barry Abernathy on banjo, Jason Moore on upright bass and Josh Schilling on guitar, keys and piano with most taking turns at the lead vocals and all harmonizing together. Its amazingly good bluegrass with one of the most requested songs "The Gospel Train" captured a capella, it will send chills down the arms of the listener, as they make the train sound as if its whizzing down the track. This song was on one of Mountain Hearts first releases and was no longer pressed and fans kept clamoring for it at every show. Now it is finally recorded again for our pleasure. A blues tune, "It Works Both Ways" is thrown in the mix and is done very well. Mountain Heart even does a bluegrass arrangement of the Allman Brothers song, "Whipping Post." Interestingly, the some band members have played with other important bluegrass artists before coming into the folds of Mountain Heart. Steffey was with Allison Krauss & Union Station and Abernathy was with Doyle Lawson & Quick Silver. That’s just a small indicator of the quality craftsmanship and abilities of this band. It’s a fine album in every way and you will play it over and over again!  Go here: Mountain Heart

Rating: 10 out of 10

Tracks:

 1. Welcome

 8. Devil’s Courthouse

 9. The Gospel Train

10. Done A Thousand Times

16. #6 Barn Dance

Artist: Band of Horses

Album: Cease to Begin

"To say the least it’s been awful hard to just stand on my feet," claims Band of Horses frontman Ben Bridwell on their sophomore disc Cease to Begin. There have indeed been some changes for the southern indie rockers since the release of their stellar debut disc Everything All the Time in 2006. Luckily, the shifts in line-up and location have only heightened the band’s ability to create soaring melodies against space-tinged vocals.

The core members of Band of Horses, Bridwell, bassist Rob Hampton and drummer Creighton Barrett, moved back to their home state of South Carolina after living in Washington for a decade. The shift from rain-soaked Seattle is evident on Cease to Begin. On the track "Ode to LRC," Bridwell emotes, "The world is such a wonderful place," while singing of the tranquility of a small town.

Bridwell sings, "Things start splittin’ at the seams," on the gorgeous and haunting "No One’s Gonna Love You." This track, along with the romantic and wrenching "Window Blues" and "Detlef Schrempf" shows that heartbreak never sounded so pretty.  Go here:  Band Of Horses

Rating: 8 out of 10

Written By Jessica Baird

Tracklist

 1. Is There a Ghost

10. Window Blues

Artist: Kings of Leon

Album: Because of the Times

Label: RCA

Release: 04-03-07

The release of Kings of Leon’s third album marks a turning point for the deep-fried, southern rock ‘n rollers. The Tennessee natives are treated like real kings in the UK and Because of the Times might finally deem them rock royalty in America.

Caleb Followill, along with brothers Jared, Nathan and their cousin Matthew make up this rollicking quartet. Raised by a Pentecostal preacher, the title of their new album derives from a religious convention the Followill brothers used to attend each year with their father. They may be sons of a preacher man, but these boys real religion is rock.

In a music world where a band’s success is measured by how many MySpace friends they have, or how successful their clothing line is, the Kings are the quintessential throwback to the gritty, fist-pumping rock of a bygone era. Caleb might say he’s, “awful sick and tired of the game,” on the track “The Runner,” but here’s hoping that he never stops playing.  Go here: Kings of Leon

 7. True Love Way

 8. Ragoo

13. Arizona

Artist: Todd Fritsch

Album: Sawdust

Seldom have I ever found an album that is this strong and true to the music it depicts, Sawdust is exactly that and much more. Todd Fritsch has an amazingly good voice and the lyrics on this 17 track album are sensational. Fritsch is a Texan with deep Texas roots and has had previous charting success in Europe with his song "Bob Wills" and in Texas with "Small Town Radio." In his new album Sawdust Fristch has matured in sound quality and production with this release. It is simply remarkable how a top notch album can "wow" you over. The album’s first release is "What’s Wrong With Me" speaking of beautiful girls and self reflection and true love. Fritsch knows how to sing a ballad and in "The Rock" he tells a tale of long ago in the 1800's and the strength that comes from deep within a man. A up tempo song with lots of straight a head country sound is found in "No Part Of." The Texan really shine through in "All That’s Left Is You" with a jazzy western swing. You could certainly do a Texas two step to this one. A love lorn tale is told in "So This Is Love" with Fritsch’s smooth vocals gliding along the melody with style. Old traditional country is found in the tune "Guilty Conscience." Its pretty vintage in sound and Bob Wills could have written and sung this tune years ago. A rockin’ bit of outlaw country is found in "If You don’t Like Country (Time to Leave)," just imagine today’s country outlaws singing this one around midnight on a back road. Another ballad is heard in "Life’s A Circle" a story about a workin’ man that earns his living from the toil from his hands. It touches the lives of many today farming and tilling the land and the strength within a family. What a great intro into "Texas Talkin’" and the simple standards of a country man and how he lives his life from day to day. Much to be said, about the words in this one. Another Texas swing number, "Five Mornings Down" is a classic and the fiddle sounds are exceptional. Real honky tonk comes from Fritsch with "Honky Tonk Talk" and its fun filled lyrics. Special guest artist, Eddy Raven (I Got Mexico) duets with Fritsch on "Tequila Tells" brings the raspy voiced Raven in balance to Frisch’s country smoothness in perfect balance. A strong story about a waitress and a singer that needs a break, and the waiting to make it big in Nashville requires more time than desired. A lovely paced song "A Walk To Remember," taking the simple day to day experiences and making them important and real to someone’s life and as time passes, age finds everyone and lays its hold on all. Gary P. Nunn joins Fritsch on "Every Honky Tokin’ Hero (Has His Day) with a classic country song filled with two good ole boys and best of buddies, will probably surpass Garth Brooke’s "Friends In Low Places" or at the very least give ‘em a good run for their money. A great contender for charting off this album is "First Date (For The Last Time) a wonderful love song and touching two lovers hearts with tender emotions. Fritsch ends the album with "Little Joe The Wrangler" a traditional song in which Fritsch uses spoken word lyrics and sings on the refrains. I’ve got a feeling that he has heard this one many times over the years as he grew up on his family’s cattle ranch. This is a very exceptional album and anyone who enjoys country will find something they will love. This is the album that is going to make Fritsch a household name very soon and an icon in country music. Go here: Todd Fritsch

Rating: 10 out of 10

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

Artist: Colin Hay

Album: Are You Lookin’ At Me?

Go here: Colin Hay

11. Land Of The Midnight Sun

Artist: Doyle Lawson & Qucksilver                                                     

Album: More Behind The Picture Than The Wall

Go here: Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver

Rating: 10 out of 10

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

Artist: Olsin McAuley                                                                            

Album: Far From The Hills Of Donegal

Label: Compass

Release: 02-2007


Comparing this album with Solas' Reunion album really helped me obtain a
better understanding of this genre. A track-by-track commentary:

Yeah! After reviewing standard music industry output (typically uncreative)
for WMTS, it's a pleasure to review something of this caliber. A
lively fiddle tune, this guitar/fiddle duet changes without predictability.
Running through a meadow...

This track appeals to the average American xenophile. Bagpipe things? Cool.
You don't know what the bagpipe things are called, but you like it 'cause it
s different (and seemingly unique). Not as lively as stereotyped, but
certainly not dull.

Another instrumental track like the former, it uses fiddle and guitar.
Pretty, although a little difficult to follow at times. Changes halfway
through and gets more interesting (progressive irish jigs?) Definitely a
must hear to get a feel for this album.

Really shows off the talent of this fiddler. A nice duet; I wonder with whom
Maybe this is a studio album, and he recorded over it? Either way, prettylike the last one. This album begins to slow: it's "more of the same" atthis point.

.. which would be why they decided to stick this lively jig after the last
two slower tracks. Very, very nice droning effect one minute into the song;
this artist really understands how to complement instruments and layer
melodies upon themselves.

Jazzy? I guess that's how you would describe this track. One downside to
this album is all the melodies are similar: They all repeatedly loop up and
down in circular arching patterns (which I guess is typical in celtic
patterns).

A ragtime? A cheerful little ditty giving the mental image of strolling down
a nice dirt path in front of a country town on a spring day, or else a
peanut gallery slapstick skit of haphazard romance. Some very tricky
passages here! The overall effect is rather silly, but what can you expect
when the track is titled, "Souvenir Of Venice (Hornpipe)/ Belle Of The Stage
(Clog)"?

Once again, he leaves no doubt about his skill as a musician. Very technical
pieces. This track is more romantic; especially nice if you enjoy accordian!
A rolling piece, the accompaniment takes you on a boat ride while the violin
gives you a happy tour.

Slightly different from the previous tracks (at least in the beginning),
this one has more dissonance than you might expect; the guitar presents some
very moody chords for the fiddle to jump over.

No doubt a pretty track; similarly romantic to Mary's Waltz. McAuley's
problem is it's too similar to the rest of every other track: the same
guitar, the same violin/fiddle; there's not enough variety in sound. That's
why this isn't an album you would play from start to finish. Put it on
shuffle with other tracks in my case, my 3800-track 4&5 star playlist
and you're good to go. (This is the one track I gave three stars, simply
because it didn't contribute anything significant to the album.)

A determined jig, whose melody is determined to make it to the finish line,
this track follows a steady rhythm throughout; a nice change of pace from
the "let's jump around a whole lot without any sense of direction!"

I would almost consider this album a compilation of random songs: it's an
assortment of traditional jigs that McAuley appears to enjoy. The reason I
say this is that they all have a kind of energy to them, but are too similar
to each other when heard consecutively, as previously stated. Put this on your iPod Shuffle (assuming you weren't tricked into buying somethingsuperior) and enjoy random tracks.

Solo instruments. Yeah. Intense. Not for those who can't handle staring
instruments in the face. (Some prefer singing along, and get bored if they
can't latch onto a meaningless refrain.) Unfortunately, you won't often find
a track like this one on public radio. It was even a bit much for me.

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Written by Daniel Bridges

Track listing:

•  1. Quebec Reels
•  2. Ask My Father/ Pat Ward's Jig
•  3. Con Cassidy/ We'll Have Our Own Fun/ Killavil Fancy/ Coleman's Cross
•  4. Tune For Gillian
•  5. Paddy Fahey's/ My Former Wife/ Paidin O'Raifeertaigh/ The Rumours Of A Dart
•  6. Gille Le Bigot's Swing & Tears
•  7. Souvenir of Venice/ Belle of the Stage
•  8. Mary's Waltz
•  9. John Doherty's Highland/ Neil Gow's Wife/ Frank Cassidy's
• 10. Lover's Ghost/ Maud Miller
• 11. The Capelhouse/ Molloy's
• 12. Moneymusk/ The Spey in Spate
• 13. Port Na Bpucai

Artist: Sunny Sweeney

Sunny Sweeney has that kind of voice that stands out in the crowd. Truly a classic country sound that has been popular over the years and you can still find every Friday and Saturday night at the Grand Ole Opry. Sweeney has a single mindedness when it comes to her debut album and her first efforts at winning a national following of fans;  well, it won’t go unnoticed. Country will always keep a place for those that know how to put a realness and  incorporate "true to life" content in their music. After listening to Sweeney’s CD front to back, she grew on me and it brought back pleasant memories of those times that I’d heard classic country and faces from the past such as Dolly and Porter, Tammy and George and Skeeter Davis. Good times and good music. Sweeney has brought on one of country’s legendary song writers, Jim Lauderdale and they do a nice duet together "Lavender Blue" Launderdale is the perfect match vocally for Sweeney direct straight ahead sound and lends a softness to the edges of the song. "Refresh My Memory" is full of classic country sounds and a two step beat, Sweeney’s vocals roll out with a thick Texas drawl that at once gives you a feel for the entire recording. We find some honky tonk in "East Texas Pines" its toe tapping rhythm is sure to keep you rockin’. Never has a song brought back the Dolly and Porter years as "Next Big Nothing" did for me. They were known to do some humorous numbers and poke a little fun at each other and themselves over the years and the lyrics do just that. My pick song on the album is the title track "Heartbreaker’s Hall Of Fame." It has that quality that makes me want to sing along with it. Sweeney does a ballad very well with "Mama’s Opry" telling the story of her mama and her dreams of singing at the Grand Ole Opry. Sweeney includes a few cover songs on the album and the last track is one that most country fans will be very familiar with "16th Avenue." It recalls the lives of songwriters and artists that give up everything in their lives just to have a chance on Music Row and walk down 16th Avenue. Sweeney is bound to make her mark with this album and look for her on CMT and country music award programs this coming year. Go here: Sunny Sweeney

6. Here Lately

Artist: The Shins

Release Date: 1/23/07

"You’re finally golden, boy" sings James Mercer, frontman of indie rock darlings The Shins on the track "Split Needles" off their newest album. For longtime fans of this New Mexico bred quartet, Mercer and company have been golden since their first album Oh! Inverted World was released in 2001.

Their mention in "Garden State" was definitely a tall order, with the character of Sam claiming that they’ll change your life. However, if The Shins continue to release albums like Wincing the Night Away, it is definitely a possibility.

Rating: 8 out of 10

Written by Jessica Baird

Track List:

11. A Comet Appears

Artist: The Beatles                                                                         

Album: Love

Release: 11-21-06

Who would have dreamed that something this special in the way of music would happened 40 years afterwards? Not many, myself included. The Beatles remastered and remixed album of some of their greatest songs done by the eighty year old original producer, George Martin. Mind you that the gentleman had the assistance of his son Giles Martin and access to the original master tapes. Not a bad combination. This apparently was the dream of George Harrison and Guy Laliberte, the founder of Cirque du Soleil. So some years have passed and the dream became a wonderful reality for Beatles fans around the globe. The album contains 26 tracks, several that have been spliced together in an unique sequence that makes a new sound and actually a new song. Taking something old and making it fresh is such an unusual feat in the kingdom of music, but if you are The Beatles everything is possible. Combinations such as "Blackbird/Yesterday" and "Drive My Car/The Word/What You’re Doing" clearly show the not seen before talents of Sir Martin. The gentle a cappella sounds of the Fab Four on "Because" sends chills down your spine. My favorite on this album is "Strawberry Fields Forever" with its rpm infused rhythm. The album is well done and can be purchased with an 5.1 surround sound audio DVD as well. Once listening to both versions, I have to say that the 5.1 is as close to a live feeling as you can get. New arrangements and today’s modern mash ups, all served with familiarity and with the blessings of Paul, Ringo, Yoko and Olivia Harrison is certainly a treasure for Beatles fans around the universe. From my heart I say "thank you" to them all.

Rating: 10 out of 10

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

11. Help!

12. Blackbird/Yesterday

20. Revolution

21. Back In The U.S.S.R.

26. All You Need Is Love

Artist: Foo  Fighters

Album: Skin and Bones                                                          

Release: 11/7/2006

After five thrilling rock ‘n roll releases, the four men that continue to keep us safe from Foo recently released their first ever live album, Skin and Bones. The album was recorded during Foo Fighters all too brief (and all too sold-out) acoustic tour showcasing the softer side of the accomplished arena rockers.

In Your Honor, the double album released in the summer of 2005, was the first time frontman Dave Grohl and his fellow Foos devoted an entire disc to acoustic tunes. Some of these songs appear on Skin and Bones such as Razor, Over and Out and Friend of a Friend.

In addition to Smear, the Foos are accompanied by violinist Petra Haden and Rami Jaffee on keyboards, all of whom help to add some meat to Skin and Bones.

This acoustic album proves that Foo Fighters are a band that is greater than the sum of their parts; a rare thing in today’s music world which seems to focus more on showmanship than songs.

Skin and Bones is a treat for longtime fans and is also a breath of fresh air to people who have grown tired of modern rock. A live DVD has also been released, a perfect gift for that Foo Fighter fan this holiday season!

Rating: 9 out of 10

Written by Jessica Baird

Tracks:

 1. Razor

 2. Over And Out

 3. Walking After You

 4. Marigold

 5. My Hero

 6. Next Year

 7. Another Round

 8. Big Me

 9. Cold Day In The Sun

10. Skin And Bones

11. February Stars

12. Times Like These

13. Friend Of A Friend

14. Best Of You

15. Everlong

Artist: Sparta                                                                           

Album: Threes

Release: October 24, 2006

Threes is the latest work from the post-hardcore band Sparta. Formed from the ashes of At the Drive In, Sparta’s newest effort really captures my attention. This album is raw, intense, and full of things I like hearing. The guitars are remind me of Red Sparowes but a little more aggressive. The album has an edge that I’ve been looking for in a post-hardcore band for a very long time. In the past, most of the bands of this genre wouldn’t do anything with passion. It would always be "we must sound like this preconceived notion of our style and we must sell sell sell". Sparta takes that attitude and takes their style into new directions. While you can hear the punk tendencies they also mix in that post-rock edge which has been rising in popularity lately. "Unstitch Your Mouth" really caught my attention with its catchy cords ands awesome vocals. It was like all these puzzle pieces being dropped off a mountain only to land perfectly in order and more beautiful than the mountain from which it fell. The songs after it also partake of the same strategy, really giving my ears something to pleasure over. However, once I reached "Atlas" on this musical voyage of Threes, I began to grow weary. At that instant they seemed to lose what made them different from most of these post-rock, yet near the end of that song they brought the, passion back into the mix and I was satisfied. "Atlas" seemed to be like a line of demarcation; after that song was played they seemed to be a little more aggressive instead of being "beautiful, bold, and edgy." The album winds down perfectly from something beautiful into something more unconstrained. Though there is some beauty in freedom, it was noticeable different than before. At first I really liked this album, it seemed like it was progressing to a certain point musically. Later on, I felt like I was dragged to a place I didn’t really expect to be, nor did I necessarily want to be. Though it wasn’t a bad direction it didn’t flow, but rather it abruptly shifted. I did not quite like that surprise. It was actually quite a pleasant album, I just don’t like the way the album caught me off guard. Go here: Sparta

Rating: 8 out of 10

Written by Andrew Eidson

Tracks:

1. Untreatable Disease

2. Crawl

3. Unstitch Your Mouth

4. Taking Back Control

5. Erase It Again

6. Atlas

7. The Most Vicious Crime

8. False Start

9. Weather The Storm

10.  Red, Right, Return (Straight In Our Hands)

11.  Without A Sound

12. Translations

Artist: The Blood Brothers                                                              

Album: Young Machetes                                                               

Label: V2 Records

Release:  October 10, 2006

The Blood Brother’s fifth album Young Machetes initiates their withdrawal from their typical chaotic and obnoxious screaming which we’ve come to know and love. It is not a complete withdrawal; moreover, I would consider it a maturity. A few of the earlier songs on the album are a little more catchy than some of the other songs one may still find them enjoyable. "Laser Life" is a decent track that is exceedingly bouncy for a Blood Brothers song. Another track, "Camouflage, Camouflage" starts out slow and hardly becomes chaotic but it transforms into a really powerful track, a synthesis of emotion and power. With Guy Picciotto from Fugazi on production of this record the end result is an amalgamation of old and new sounds to create a completely solid album. Two songs that really stick out in my mind is "Rat Rider" and "Giant Swan."   "Rat Rider" is one of those catchy songs that you can sing along to, but it’s also one of the faster and more chaotic tracks. "Giant Swan" is the necessary song at the end of an album which must provide some kind of closure. While most of The Blood Brothers are post-hardcore or no wave styled "Giant Swan" starts out really slow and perhaps is even tinted with a spot of jazz. The saying "the calm before the storm" is applicable in the case of the final track. Until the 3:00 minute mark it is pretty relaxed then it becomes an unforgiving auditory tumult of ferocity and despair. Whereupon listening to the album all I can wonder is where The Blood Brothers can go from here. In this album they successfully join together their older sounds with fresher more polished noises. Because of its tenacity and unabashed desire to try new things I give The Blood Brother’s album Young Machetes a rating of extremely good.  Go here: The Blood Brothers

Rating: 8 out of 10

Written by Andrew Eidson

Track Listing:

1. Set Fire To the Face On Fire

2. We Ride skeletal Lightning

3. Laser Life

4. Camouflage, Camouflage

5. You're The Dream Unicorn

6.  Vital Beach

7. Spit Shine Your Black Clouds

8. 1, 2, 3, 4, Guitars

9.  Lift The veil, Kiss The Tank

10.  Nausea Shields Yr Head

11. Rat Ride

12. Johnny Ripper

13. Huge Gold Ak-47

14. Street Wars/ Exotic Foxholes

15. Giant Swan

Artist: The Killers                                                                                                  

Album: Sam's Town

Label:  Island

Release:  October 3, 2006                                                     

If you’ve been keeping up with Brandon Flowers and company since their debut smash Hot Fuss two years ago, then you know how Flowers views their second effort Sam’s Town.

However, there are a few tracks showing off what The Killers do best, such as the windows down, hair blowing anthem "When You Were Young" and the equally thrilling track "Bones." Go here: The Killers

                                                                                                                                         Jessica Baird

Writer's Profile 

I’m a girl that has seen Almost Famous too many times and I have convinced myself that I too can live that rock ‘n roll lifestyle. I graduated with a BA in print journalism from The University of Memphis in May 2006. While there I served as the school paper’s Arts and Entertainment Editor. I’ll write for anyone that wants to read it and I’m always searching for a great, new band. My biggest goal is to write for Rolling Stone and one day interview Dave Grohl. Until that day comes, I’ll continue to go to too many rock shows. I have what some may consider an unhealthy obsession with The Beatles, but I myself find it quite justified. Some of my other favorite musicians include: Foo Fighters, Ryan Adams, Wilco, Brendan Benson, Jeff Buckley, Phantom Planet, The Raconteurs, Bright Eyes, The Strokes and many, many more.

Jessica is presently pursuing her graduate degree at Austin Peay State University. 

Artist: Solas

Album: Reunion A Decade of Solas

17. The most soothing song I've heard in a while. A lament
poignant with emotion, forcing the listener to become thoughtful and
introspective ... "New Age" relaxation? This is musicianship, to
provide variety and to set mood so very well. Listen to this song.  Go here: Solas


Rating: 9 out of 10

Written by Daniel Bridges

11. Who's In The What Now *
12. On The Sea Of Fleur De Lis
13. Lowground
14. Beauty Spot
15. Nil Na La *
16. The Flowing Bowl *
17. Lament For Frankie *

* - Highly recommend.

Artist: Kasabian

Album: Empire                                                                          

Label: Columbia Records UK

Release: 08-28-06

Truly a sophomoric effort, Kasabian’s second album Empire fails to impress; however, Empire manages to maintain a few positive aspects. A select few songs such as "My Side," "Seek and Destroy," and "Doberman" really stood out among the rest of the tracks. Most of these songs have no passion, they feel like a generic cookie-cutter brand of indie-pop that the market has been saturated with these days. While danceable songs such as "My Side," and "Seek and Destroy" were pretty good. They were ruined when the vocalist came on. I can see why they’d use "Shoot the Runner" as their second single, as it is probably the most formulated of all the songs on the album. Along with most of the other songs, "Stuntman" lacked almost all passion and maintained no measurable depth to its sound. These songs are like forests. If you look at them all at once, you’d get confused and perhaps lost. Almost like a gradient of sound with no clear borders. Often times, I was confused when a song ended and a new one began. The final track is like a beautiful woman with an atrocious pimple on her face. I appreciate the attention they gave the instrumentation during this song. This was the obvious choice as a finale song for this album, for the sound accumulated and the eventually dissipated into nothingness. Though, for some reason the singer decides to add a spoken word dialogue in a futile attempt to make the song "deeper."  This is a failure. Empire is not bad, it just fails to impress me. It did nothing new, took me to no new places and didn’t make me feel anything at all except during the last song. If you’re going to pick this album up, don’t buy it for its cathartic merit.  Go here: Kasabian

11. Doberman

                                                                                                                    Andrew Eidson

Writer's Profile

Andrew Eidson

A 20 year old guy who runs his own netlabel and is in his own band. Constantly listening to new and different music he quickly grows tired of conventional types of music. Lately, he listens mostly to experimental or electronic music. During high school he was on the newspaper staff for three years and wrote mostly reviews of movies, music, and video games. Since the age of 14 he has been producing his own music from his computer, but with no formal knowledge he seeks a Recording Industry major at Middle Tennessee State University where he is currently a Sophomore.

Artist: Moses Mayfield

Mayfield is the predominant songwriter and lead vocalist on this sampler of their upcoming release The Inside. Only three songs are on the sampler, "Control and "Fall Behind" were written by Mayfield. Track three "Strange New Place" was co-written by Mayfield and former Bering Strait band member, Ilya Toshinsky. Toshinsky is a noted songwriter as well in the Nashville scene. The strongest song of the three is "Strange New Place" it is slightly heavier than the previous two songs, with more emphasis placed on guitar and percussion.  Toshinsky’s native country is Russia and finding a brand new home in a different continent must have been a focal point of his life for several years after arriving in the States with fellow Russian band mates. Overall, this is a very good indicator of some solid rock n roll that will temp you to buy more of their music and I see mucho grande potential in Moses Mayfield. Go here: Moses Mayfield or

Moses Mayfield

3. Strange New Place

Artist: The Features                                                                     

Go here: The Features

Artist: LanTana                                                                            

A mature country trio of ladies bring forth Unbridled with the theme of keeping country simply country. A13 track album that is filled with differing themes, but consistently contains a country sound and skillful harmonies from these three attractive and competent women. Biz Haddock, Karol Ann DeLong and Dalene Richelle compose LanTana, who by the way derived their name "LanTana" from their home base in Texas and a common wildflower. Karol Ann DeLong may be the LanTana with the most experience, as her earlier solo career put her beside Don Williams, Lorrie Morgan and The Kentucky Headhunters on the stage. This album is their debut with Bill Green as producer. His notable achievements include producing hits songs with Toby Keith. The first single of the album is "Country As A City Girl Can Be." Filled with the sounds of fiddle, a easy two step swing and lyrics that speak of "never seeing an old dirt road and iced tea." It has hit all over it. All three LanTanas co-wrote "The Juice Ain’t Worth The Squeeze." This is the only song on the album that involved their song writing skills. Banjos and fiddles once again give this a toe tappin’ feel and it has a odd lyrical content, but the instrumental quality more than compensates for the unusual words. Jeffery Steele and T.W. Hale co-wrote a rockin tongue twister "Everything." It is fun filled and LanTana has the ability to pull it off. Steele is one of Nashville’s most prolific songwriters and heavily pursuing his own career as an artist currently. Two of my favorites on the album are "Savin’ It Up For Saturday Night" and "Feel Like Rockin’." Both are up tempo numbers filled with all the traditional country sounds. So when you think of LanTana, think country with a dash of red neck women, just for fun and a shake of spirited independence. Unbridled is a good debut album and one that I believe will attract many country music lovers. I’m already anticipating their next album! Go here: LanTana

Rating: 7 out of 10.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

1. Country As A City Girl Can Be

2. Ride'em Cowboy

3. I Ain't Your Jailer

4. The Juice Ain't Worth The Squeeze

5. No Trespassin'

6. Everything

7. You Know How It Is

8. Let Somebody Love You

9. Give

10.  Roll With The Changes

11. Savin' It Up for Saturday Night

12. What Turns Me On

13.  Feel Like Rockin'

Artist: Karen Taylor-Good                                                                    

Karen’s childhood takes the form of a song in "One Mile Apart." She grew up in El Paso, Texas and literally could see all the poverty just one mile away in Mexico. The album contains a Spanish version of the song and includes Karen on vocals. It adds a nice cultural touch to hear both English and Spanish version s on the same CD. Colin Raye joins Taylor-Good for a tender wedding duet entitled " If You Do." Over all this is a good album and it does give us a bit of a demo fill as it carries so many variations in musical styles. Regardless of this, I know that each song is strong and stands on its own. Just the way Karen likes to write her music, with decisiveness and a straight ahead direction that will make you want to listen from the beginning to end. Go here: Karen Taylor-Good

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Tracks:

15. One Mile Apart (Spanish)

Artist: The Raconteurs

The long awaited media event of Jack White’s unveiling his new band, "The Raconteurs" has finally arrived. Their new album has had many individuals speculating as to what will his new sound be and will he carbon copy of his successful "White Stripes?" A quick answer to the above is "no." Though it is not unusual for artists and musicians to play together on a song or two, it is unusual for entirely new groups to form, while the existing bands they came from to still be viable entities This album is clearly a different path for White and band mates. Brendan Benson, on vocals, guitar and keys, Patrick Keeler on drums and Jack Lawrence on bass guitar and White on vocals, guitars and synthesizers. Naturally, White has hand picked this band of men and placed some thought into the creation of The Raconteurs. Most notably is Benson whose solo career has served him well and the rhythm section from The Greenhornes. Apparently Benson and White wrote "Steady As She Goes" together in an attic a few years ago and the seed was planted for a more unified and traditional rock n roll band. Their first release from the album, "Steady, As She Goes" is a strong runner on the commercial air waves and venues are already selling out shows on this tour. "Steady, As She Goes" is a strong song and as pop as pop can be. In fact White and Benson exchange lead vocal roles on several songs in the album and almost have a brotherly texture to their sound and are as complimentary as "peaches n cream." "Hands" has a wonderfully rich rock vibe that makes you want to sing along with the song bringing to mind rock of days past and fulfills the traditional role of rock n roll in its chords. The title track "Broken Boy Soldiers" is an up tempo number that speaks of toys broken and a boy who never gets older. The liner notes contain a clue to the imagery of the Raconteurs by stating, " Remember a time when all was not fine and up from the dingy sewers came four lousy thieves who flourished like trees behold The Raconteurs." My pick song on the album is "Together" as its gentle melody and the echoing between Benson and White is remarkable, in its Beatlesque qualities. When I read the title of the last track on this album, "Blue Vein" I had to immediately think of the White Stripes song, "Blue Orchid." I wonder why White has a thing about blue? Actually, "Blue Vein" is the only song that deviates from the pop rock that saturate all the other songs on the album. It brings a darker side and slice of the experimental side of White and is closer to his work as The White Stripes. This album is exactly what I expected, not the mirror image of the White Stripes, but a different road for an artisan to walk for a while. Go here The Raconteurs

Written by Jane E. Powell

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Tracks:

1. Steady As She Goes

10. Blue Veins

Artist: Hotel Lights                                                                                            

When name dropping is pasted onto the front of a new release, it grabs your attention and peaks your curiosity. That’s what happened to Hotel Lights and the label said, "Ben Folds Five Founder, Darren Jessee, members of Sparklehouse, Archers of Loaf and Fountains of Wayne." It worked. I wondered what this was all about and what kind of super group did I have here. I love super groups usually, the collaboration and efforts from years of experience usually pay off and make for some quality music that works. But when listening to this album I found nothing that was really striking, new or innovative. Granted there were some good songs and the mix was good. It was mellow and had a hint of rawness about the music to make it interesting, but super it was not. It falls into the Folk Rock category of sound and has a more acoustic sound though instrumentation is utilized freely. Most of the 13 songs included are of a moderate tempo and airy, light numbers. The two best numbers were the more up tempo songs, "I Am A Train" and "Marvelous Truth." An honorable mention is "Follow Through," which includes strings. Darren Jessee writes all of the material with two co-writes with J. Benton. Apparently, the songs were recorded for the album in 2004 and it was just released this year, making me wonder why so long and was there an internal problem among the group. I don’t have the answer to that question, but invariably dependent on the success of Hotel Lights debut album we will find out whether this super group will collaborate again. Go here:  Hotel Lights

13. Love To Try

CD: Beth Orton

Album: Comfort Of Strangers                                                                     

This is Beth Orton’s fourth CD and her tenth year since her first release, Trailer Park. Ten years shows us durability and determination, both qualities to admire. In Comfort Of Strangers Orton’s languid vocals tempered with a soulful huskiness drives the force of her thought provoking lyrics into mainstream college radio with a stamp of CMJ (College Music Journal) approval. Orton has ranked on the top twenty for air play and though fans have found Orton at the Lilith Fair for years and the Newport Folk Festival, I doubt many college students today have heard of her. Her lyrics are very well-done and the first track on this album is entitled "Worms." The title can be a bit deceiving as we find chickens and wings, breast bone and back bones some of the subjects Orton writes about. This pop song brings us to mind of Fiona Apple, but it is not an indicator for the rest of the album. The other 13 songs range more into the field of Alternative Folk and it is well produced by Jim O’Rourke of Sonic Youth and whose production credits include those of Wilco, Sterolab and Smog. Orton actually wrote all 14 songs, with the title track co-written by O’Rourke and M. Ward. The talented Orton also plays the harmonica, guitar and piano on the album. Somehow this album falls a bit underdone and I feel that Orton withholds some secret inclusion overall, making me think that something is missing. I can compare it to a shadow that lies across the sidewalk, you can see it, but when you reach out to feel it, its just not possible. Well, as time progresses, Orton will be more able to access that mainstream chart success of commercial radio and I hope to enjoy it with her as well.  Go here: Beth Orton

14. Pieces Of  Sky

Artist: Robinella

Album: Solace For The Lonely                                                               

Robinella is a long awaited treat for music lovers. She has the ability to mesmerize with her vocals and once you’ve heard Robinella, I suspect you will be a fan for life. Robinella is a mix of sounds and a true singer/songwriter in Americana realms. She has produced two early independent releases and one prior to Solace For The Lonely on Universal. Her husband, Cruz Contreas plays mandolin in her band and her brother-in-law, Billy is their fiddle player. Notice the words mandolin and fiddle, you probably think country. Yet, as I mentioned before Robinella and her family create a totally unique clarity of sound, whether it be gospel, newgrass, folk, jazz or a blend of all the above. I think Robinella’s voice is likened to a Mockingbird that can repeat the phrases of other birds found in the field to a preciseness that goes unmatched in the avian kingdom. In Solace For The Lonely, Cruz is much lighter on the use of his mandolin that when we heard them on Robinella and The C.C. Stringband.  Not much of a country feel in felt in this album and overall it contains a more Jazz oriented and sophisticated feel. "Press On" is my best pick on the album and the lyrics are religious in nature and focus on the grieving family and friends that are left behind in this world at the death of the singer. It is beautifully done and speaks of believers pressing on and the hope of eternal reunion someday. The first track on the album, "Break It Down Baby" really shows us how she can rollick over the words and her phrasing is excellent. This song by the way is receiving commercial radio air play. Robinella also includes a cover song, Melanie’s 1970's hit "Brand New Key." Robinella lends a slightly husky tone to her voice in this song and will emphatically make you feel the angst of youth again. Robinella is great and give her a try if you want a mix of sounds and superb vocals. Go here: Robinella

13. I Fall In Love As Much As I Can

Artist: Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Album: Long Walk To Freedom

Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been around for thirty years. Twenty years ago, "Graceland" an album that Paul Simon and Ladysmith collaborated on hits the streets of the United States and introduced the wonderful harmonies and vocalizations from this eight member group. Ladysmith is a male choral group done in Zulu African style. In "Long Walk To Freedom" we find three of the tracks from the "Graceland" album rearranged and different guest artists included and numerous other singles and hits from previous releases. The old mixed with the new is an excellent piece of music and time justifies the re-recording of earlier material to provide a fresh version for our ears. The album opens with African words and harmonies that only provide excellent and such unusual vocalizations it mesmerizes the listener and captures our attention, holding our interest throughout the 13 tracks. Guest artists include Zap Mama, an African artist, on "Hello My Baby," Melissa Etheridge and Joe McBride are featured on "Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes," Sara McLachlan on "Homeless." The last two numbers were originally on Simon’s "Graceland" album in 1986. Natalie Merchant is guest artist on "Rain Rain Beautiful Rain." It’s a song that brings the desires of a drought stricken land for the life giving force of rain. It brings the elements of nature into play throughout the lyrics as well. Emmy Lou Harris does a lovely rendition of the Christian song "Amazing Grace/ Nearer My God To Thee." The title track "Long Walk To Freedom, " really is a song of celebration and victory for the peaceful way that leaders can come to one accord and a voice of the people themselves. "Nkosi Sikelel i Africa" allows us to see a song in its historical perspective, first as it was recorded in Japan 16 years ago and was the song of liberation from apartheid, it now claims the patriotic title of South Africa’s national anthem This is a masterpiece of musical creation and spectacular blending of a cappella sounds. Their universal message is to spread love, peace and harmony. And they do. You have to hear it to believe it! Go here:  Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Written by Jane E. Powell

Rating: 10 out of 10

Tracks:

13. Thula Thula (bonus)

This is one of the most excellent concept albums I’ve ever heard. Yet, most importantly it preserves a musical history like no other in our universe. Another aspect in regards to purchasing this album, all proceeds will go to the Habitat For Humanities program and to the newly formed Musicians Village. Well, done to all involved with Our New Orleans.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Rating: 10 out of 10.

Tracks:

Artist: Paul McCartney
Album: Chaos and Creation In The Backyard
Label: Capitol
Release: 9/13/05
 

When we know we are about to listen to a new Paul McCartney album, there is no doubt that we expect the quality that we have become accustomed to over the last four decades. Chaos and Creation In The Backyard is in fact just that and much more. Through out the entire album we find McCartney providing exquisite writing abilities and much being very similar to the bygone days of The Beatles. The first song, “Fine Line” is an up tempo number that beckons one to make the right choices in life, as making the wrong ones evidently were made and the singer relays that all is forgiven and to come back home. I feel it is a message for the youth of today. The second song, “ How Kind Of You” contains the gentle message of concern and thoughtfulness making its mark in your life. “Jenny Wren” uncloaks a sorrow filled ballad of a young woman that sees everyone for who they are really are. It actually has the ability to caress the mind of the listener and the mournful vocals McCartney utilizes captures our hearts. We then catch ourselves wishing for the world to change and make Jenny sing once again. Now for a song that is filled with the early days of The Beatles, “ Friends To Go” it contains unusual instruments such as the flugelhorn and melodica. It just feels like a long lost Beatles tune that has just been discovered after all of these years. Moving on to another buried treasure is “English Tea.” It happens to be my pick song on the album. The intro begins with some heavenly violins, then quickly becomes a rollicking and lighthearted picture of England. Most individuals will relate to the melancholy lyrics of “Too Much Rain.” The analogy of rain being the sad days of our lives and that tomorrow will be a better day brings a soul satisfying relief to the listener.

McCartney brings a classical guitar and the bongos to “ A Certain Softness” lending an exotic air and a subtle tinge of Latin beats that surprise and delight us with this new twist on McCartney. A mid tempo love song about the faithfulness of a dear friend brings “Follow Me” and its sing along melodies capturing our hearts with the poetic musing of Paul. The final track, “Anyway” is a classic McCartney love song. The piano is highly defined and the lyrics drive the desperate plea of never ending love home. A bonus track is included on the album that again will surprise and delight listeners; it’s an instrumental that has no name and is electronica based.

It’s interesting to note that McCartney plays numerous instruments on the album such as: acoustic guitar, electric guitar, cello, melodica, flugelhorn , piano, Wurlitzer piano, harmonium, Moog synthesizer, glockenspiel, bass guitar, drums, shaker, tambourine and other percussion. Certainly a change from when he first started as a young man with a guitar.

At 63, McCartney has turned back the pages of time and brought the world a very special gift, some of his strongest song writing and most poetic lyrics ever. You won’t be disappointed in this supreme masterpiece and a taste of yesterday!  Go here:  Paul

Rating 10 out of 10.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Track Listing:

  1. Fine Line
  2. How Kind Of You
  3. Jenny Wren
  4. At The Mercy
  5. Friends To Go
  6. English Tea
  7. Too Much Rain
  8. A Certain Softness
  9. Riding To Vanity Fair
10. Follow Me
11. Promise To You Girl
12. This Never happened Before
13. Anyway
      Bonus Track: Instrumental - No name.

Artist: White Stripes
Album: Get Behind Me Satan                                                                                                     
Label: V2 Records, Inc./Third Man Records
Release: June 7, 2005

 

Let me start this off by assuring everyone that I am a huge White Stripes fan, and that I truly believe that Jack White is a creative genius. With that said, Get Behind Me Satan delivers mixed feelings. The overall sound of the album is still completely exclusive to this band, even if others have tried to recreate this style. Now, I hate to name drop, but lets just say "that Louis XIV is officially on my nice try list." At any rate, the White Stripes typically record on an analogue reel-to-reel system over the course of a few days. This process is not at all unique to Get Behind Me Satan it’s just what Jack and Meg do. I will be the first to advocate it as it creates a rawer, more emotional sound. So here lies my confusion, this album sounds more commercial than any other previous release. I hate to say it, but I think Jack’s vision may have been blurred during these sessions. This is not a bad record, by any means. However, something did get lost along the way this time around.

The album’s first single “Blue Orchid," is not the best choice for the opening track. First time listeners want to hear the single and their attention drifts after they get it. This method of sequencing is good to weed out people who aren’t really interested. As a fan I can appreciate this, but “Blue Orchid” is not a very strong song. I say, "stick with it, things are getting better". Track two, “The Nurse" some people may not get this one, but if you do, you really do. The lyrics are great, Meg’s drumming is uniquely over the top, and Jack plays the marimba. Give it a try. “My Doorbell," the first refreshing cut off the album, also the record’s second single. The sound, the lyrics, the whole package is flat out White Stripes. It’s reminiscent of the band’s third album White Blood Cells, it’s like comfort food. Moving along, “Forever for Her (is over for me)," the lyrics make this song weak. The sound is not bad, but the sentiment is generic. While filming the war epic Cold Mountain, Jack taught himself to play the mandolin and got in touch with bluegrass and mountain music tendencies. “Little Ghost” is perhaps one of the most amusing songs ever recorded by the duo. Be open minded, this is a good song. Track six, “The Denial Twist”, is hands down one of the best pieces on the entire album. Think retro, not unlike this album’s predecessor, Elephant released in 2003. I’m not sure that the typical Stripes fan particularly likes to dance, but this may change someone’s mind.

Halfway through the album and the listener is probably feeling pretty good, but the next track, “White Moon" may leave you feeling a little discouraged. The lyrics are strong, but the music is lacking and Jack’s voice alone doesn’t compensate. Progressing to “Instinct Blues” to use the word retro again to describe this track would be redundant. Most of what this band does is very suggestive of the mid to late 60’s during the reigns of Jimi Hendrix and The Who. This track is definitely a throw back to the band’s second official release De Stijl, and sounds a lot like what the Black Keys are currently doing on their album Rubber Factory. Drummer Meg made her singing debut on 2003’s Elephant and received a lot of criticism. Some people don’t understand what she’s doing and that’s fine. Meg does not have a singing voice like Whitney Houston, nor the drumming capabilities of Dave Grohl, but that is not the point. She is unique in her own right and “Passive Manipulation” showcases this brilliantly. If you want something polished, look to Mariah Carey, I’ll stand behind Meg.

Next chapter, the album is nearing its end. Track number ten “Take, Take, Take," is a good use of multi-tracking. Jack harmonizes with himself, and it sounds fabulous. I could be reading into things a little too deeply, and this band has never really been one to make any social statements, but "hey" let's just call greed as we see it. After all, we do live in a capitalist society. Next, “As Ugly as I Seem," is a rare acoustic occurrence, but a pleasant one at that. These two deserve to relax after the first ten tracks. Almost there, next up “Red Rain," again a track that lacks some substance. At times the vocals are almost irritating, but the guitar is not all that bad. Finally in the last track we see some of Loretta Lynn’s influence on Jack’s songwriting. Seeing as how he produced the country legend’s comeback album Van Lear Rose in 2004, I would have thought Jack to have leaned more toward the “Nashville Sound” with this record. “I’m Lonely (but I ain’t that lonely yet)” will have to suffice, and I will say that it is pretty fulfilling.

I have heard some people say that they will not listen to the White Stripes because they think that the band is all about the “gimmicks." The wardrobe, the rumors, the lack of bass, but truth be told, this band is all about the music. Although Get Behind Me Satan is not completely convincing or consistent, most everything else they have come up with is. I would suggest first time listeners start with Elephant and work your way to this album. First impressions are a big deal and the White Stripes are not exactly aiming to disappoint. Despite all this I would still follow these two anywhere.  Go here:  White Stripes
Rating: 7 out of 10.

Written by Shannon Moore           

Track listing:

  1. Blue Orchid
  2. The Nurse
  3. My Doorbell
  4. Forever for Her (is over for me)
  5. Little Ghost
  6. The Denial Twist
  7. White Moon
  8. Instinct Blues
  9. Passive Manipulation
10. Take, Take, Take
11. As Ugly As I Seem
12. Red Rain
13. I’m Lonely (but I ain’t that lonely yet)

 

Editor's Note:   I would like to comment that I personally find "Red Rain" as one of the most appealing
songs on the entire album. I feel the reversal of the hook " Red Rain, Rain Red" repeatedly
sung, as very innovative and original. Again, bringing Jack White's brilliance as artist, musician and
producer to the pinnacle of Modern Rock legends today.  - Jane Powell

 

Artist: Ryan Adams & The Cardinals
Album: Jacksonville City Nights
Label: Lost Highway
Release: 09-27-05

 

Ryan Adams has never been afraid to delve into the world of true country music. Don’t get me wrong, I am not suggesting that Adams coexists in the same realm of today’s country music where Toby Keith and Kenny Chesney slap a country music label on modern pop just because it was produced in Nashville and they like to wear cowboy hats. We are talking about real country music rooted in Hank Williams and Johnny Cash. Adams’ first successful experience as a noted musician, with the band Whiskeytown, was an insightful look into the unique blend of country and rock known as alt-country. Seeing as how Adams helped to pioneer this genre, it is only fitting that he make a triumphant return after experimenting with other sounds.

Jacksonville City Nights is the second of three records to be released in 2005 by Ryan along with his band the Cardinals. With the release of the first album with this backing band, Cold Roses, in May of this year Adams channeled the likes of Jerry Garcia and maybe even a hint of Chris Isaak.  This only helped to set the stage for what was to come on Jacksonville. The new release is definitely Ryan and his fans will recognize it, but when aligned with the 2001 release Gold, it is almost hard to believe that this is the same artist. Jacksonville City Nights is raw emotion placed in an “I’ve got nothing left to lose” state of mind, it’s so sad it makes you happy by comparison.

The opening track, “A Kiss Before I Go," may very well be the quintessential working man’s anthem. “One shot, one beer, and a kiss before I go," Adams says what every lonely man at the bar on Friday night would like to do. Track two, “The End," a misnomer, because it’s really just an ode to Adams’ hometown of Jacksonville, North Carolina. He’s not forgetting the little people, or in this case, the small town. Track number three “Hard Way to Fall," a breakup isn’t easy we understand, most of Adams’ fans probably also understand that he is not a relationship expert. He is honest with his lyrics, but he tells us nothing that we have not heard before. The fourth track is probably the most intriguing of the entire record. On “Dear John” Adams collaborates with Norah Jones. Upon the first listen it is pretty obvious that the two voices are almost too distinct to blend, yet this song beckons the listener to return, and it works in a “diamond in the rough” sort of way. The first single off the album “The Hardest Part” displays Adams’ vocal abilities in a way almost exclusive to this album, listen for the bridge, I would play these few lines on a loop if I could.  In “Games" Adams continues to achieve the sound I think he’s going for with this record, but the lyrics are still a little lackluster. Save “Silver Bullets” until you are alone, because it might just put you over the edge Ryan already has you teetering on. Sometimes you just need a sad song and he has mastered the craft. “Peaceful Valley” is probably strategically placed next because it effectively lifts the listener back up, and the vocals are vintage country music in a nutshell. “September” tells a vivid goodbye story, this is about as sad as it gets on this album. Also one of the strongest tracks simply because it sticks with you, whether you want it to or not. “My Heart is Broken," one of the lost Whiskeytown tracks, but it fits perfectly on the Jacksonville sessions and has been picked up, surprisingly enough, by Starbucks Radio. I guess it goes well with coffee. It’s finally time for a lighter song. “Trains” no heavy meanings here, stop thinking and just listen, you could even tap your foot because this track will incline you to do so. Adams has a way of telling a sad story without you knowing it. “Pa” revisits the ever-present theme of death found throughout the album, but his tone would have you believe otherwise, apathy plays a big role in this song. “Withering Heights," no relation to Emily Bronte, not the strongest track either lyrically or musically, but we are nearing the end of the record here. Final track “Don’t Fail Me Now,"originally titled “When the Rope Gets Tight” if that’s any indication to the mood, yet the listener still feels a little tinge of hope in both the vocals and the lyrics. He might make it after all.

At age 31, Ryan Adams has already been called genius, arrogant, and maybe even crazy, but what he’s doing seems to be working. 2005 has been a year of reinvention from previous releases such as Rock N’ Roll or Love Is Hell, but his music is coming full circle. Adams’ final release for the year, 29, is due out in December. Go here: Ryan Adams & The Cardinals

Rating:  9 out of 10.

Written by Shannon Moore                 

Track listing:                                                          

  1. A Kiss Before I Go
  2. The End
  3. Hard Way To Fall
  4. Dear John feat. Norah Jones
  5. The Hardest Part
  6. Games
  7. Silver Bullets
  8. Peaceful Valley
  9. September
10. My Heart Is Broken
11. Trains
12. Pa
13. Withering Heights
14. Don't Fail Me Now
15. Always On My Mind

                                                                          

                                                                                          Shannon Moore

Writer's Profile

Welcome everyone. My name is Shannon Moore and I’m currently a sophomore at MTSU with a major in music business and a minor in journalism. Originally from Connecticut, I spent ten years of my life in Franklin, TN. I was fortunate enough to escape and I now reside in Murfreesboro, TN. Music is a part of everything I do now or ever want to do for the rest of my life. Some of my personal heroes are Chuck Klosterman, Jon Stewart, Ryan Adams, and Meg White. The top three artists that have changed my life include, The White Stripes, Ryan Adams, and Nirvana. Enjoy!
 

Artist: Yngwie Malmsteen and Rising Force
Album: Unleash The Fury
Label: Spitfire
Release: 7-26-05
                        

Here in the United States, Yngwie (ING-vay) Malmsteen may not be well-known by heavy metal fans or has become a household name on Headbangers Ball. Yet, Malmsteen is held in very high esteem in Europe and Japan. His concerts sell out on his European and Japanese tours and he even holds a Grammy nomination for best rock instrumental performance for his first solo album, “Rising Force.” That album also climbed to 60 on Billboard charts.

Malmsteen is the master of neoclassical metal. In fact, he is the creator of this genre of music. Mamsteen is a guitar genius and literally plays each and every stringed instrument on the albums he creates. Shredding the notes on the guitars like a maniac and once you’ve heard his style of playing it is unmistakable Malmsteen. Malmsteen started playing instruments at the early age of seven and later developed a guitar neck fashioned after the lutes he used to repair in his teens. Unusual talents in a person at such a young age, but as I mentioned before, truly a genius when it comes to making innovative music that rocks you and has the ability to lead you to the softer inflections of classical music woven into the course of the songs he creates. You would never have thought this combination would work for the heavy metal lover, but it does.

Malmsteen is known for choosing musicians to play on his albums based on the theme or feel his is trying to develop on each and may occasionally have a repeat player in his band; in which he refers to as his “touring orchestra.” Again, another unusual characteristic in a very successful artist. In his new album, “Unleash The Fury” he has some familiar faces such as Doogie White on vocals, Joakim Svalberg on keys and Patrick Johannsson on percussion. As mentioned earlier Malmsteen does all guitar work and basses on the CD, writes the lyrics and music for the entire 18 tracks.
 

Let’s take a look at some of the songs on the album. “Cracking The Whip” is a rocking and rousing heavy hitting metal song and have chosen it as the best pick on the CD. It takes your breath away with its amazing guitar work. I was a bit surprised to find a Christian oriented song on this album, “Crown of Thorns” is written about Christ’s last hours on the cross and I had to wonder if Malmsteen could have written this during the popularity of the Mel Gibson movie “The Passion of Christ.” It is very touching and thoughtful look at the crucifixion, yet Malmsteen refrains from every using the name of Christ, Son of God or other reference to the Savior in the lyrics. You will find the most commercial sounding song for Americans to hear would be “The Bogeyman.” It has a loud rock sound of today, such as we could compare with Mudvayne. Malmsteen mixes a gentle toned ballad with “Cherokee Warrior.” Malmsteen usually tends to direct an album to be all heavy or instrumental. On this album he intended the songs to be very spontaneous. Neo-Classical instrumentals on the album are “Fuguetta,” “Guardian Angel,” “Magic and Mayhem,” and “Paraphrase.” Each one delicately inscribed with Malmsteen’s amazing solo abilities on electric guitar.

I do feel that there are some occasional production problems noted in the recording of the lead vocals that are somewhat distracting. Although this is not evident in much of the work, it does take its toll on the overall rating of the CD.

For someone who has never experienced the musical pleasures of European Metal, I would highly recommend this album. I would be the first to say that once enjoyed, it becomes a way of life and it will be much richer. Go here: Yngwie Malmsteen

Rating 8 out of 10.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Track listing:

  1. Locked and Loaded
  2. Revolution
  3. Cracking The Whip
  4. Winds Of War (Invasion)
  5. Crown of Thorns
  6. The Bogeyman
  7. Beauty and A Beast
  8. Fuguetta
  9. Cherokee Warrior
10. Guardian Angel
11. Let The Good Times Roll
12. Revelation (Drinking With The Devil)
13. Magic And Mayhem
14. Exile
15. The Hunt
16. Russian Roulette
17. Unleash The Fury
18. Paraphrase
 

Artist: Middle Tennessee State University Bands                                                                         
Album: Rock U: MTSU - Volume 1
Label: Reflection Records
Release: 9/05

For individuals that enjoy music straight from the efforts of earnest hard working college bands, the Rock U series of compilation albums will tickle your fancy. This particular album is the third in an series of university centered recordings that started with Belmont and the University of Tennessee. I feel this is a unique concept in recording and can really clue us into the local music scene in a particular area. I hope that the developers and powers that be behind Rock U will continue to strive to bring it to a national level.

The MTSU album is jammed packed with 15 different bands and strives to bring the wide spanning taste in musical styles.  Many of the artists and musicians majoring in the well-known recording industry program on campus have found creative outlets in the bands featured on the CD and are important to the local music scene in the college town of Murfreesboro.

The first track on the album is from Overzealous with “Apples N Girls.” They have developed a strong local following and are an Indie Rock oriented band. The song typifies what many college radio stations are playing around the nation currently. The Cry Room is a phenomenal Art Rock band that incorporates the theremin into its sound on a regular basis. The theremin is an instrument that is often used to create the sci-fi sounds heard on many of the scores for science fiction television themes and movies. The smooth vocals of Chris Gillis and the musical poetry that feeds your soul will predominant many of the tracks on this album. Production quality is probably at its best on this track as well. My best pick song on the album goes to The Karg Boys with “Down In Mexico.” This two brother team has written a rousing ballad of a ghostly woman in Mexico who preys on men as they vacation in Mexico. The blending of vocals and harmonization is wonderful and the Kargs just signed a publishing and artist development deal with Universal this summer. Some have compared their tight harmonies to the famous Everly Brothers. The Sunny Side with “Gone From The Bottle” is a bit disappointing, as the vocals are not up to par with the others bands on the album, although the lyrics are strong from this Roots music group. Finding Steve Cunningham with “The Skyline” is a pleasant, dreamy song that flows like a gentle breeze.

The compilation album strives to bring out representatives from many genres of music and listeners will need to keep that in mind when listening to this album.

I understand that the only band that is no longer actively playing in the region is The Umbilical Chords.

Well, the Rock U series is a gourmet sampling that will flavor the palettes of music connoisseurs with just the right amount of seasonings! Go here: Rock U

Rating 7 out of 10.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Track listing:

  1. Overzealous - Apples N Girls
  2. Folk Medicine - Dirt
  3. Prodigal - Gangsta Gangsta
  4. Kyle Cruz - En Jouant
  5. The Cry Room - Farewell To Arms
  6. Spiderfighter - Rosebud
  7. Charlie Murphey - Saint
  8. The Sunny Side - Gone From The Bottle
  9. The Karg Boys - Down In Mexico
10. The Umbilical Chords - Toungue And Stars
11. Victor Furious & The Murder of Men - The Very Thought Of You
12. Fluent Dialects - Skillz
13. Destroy Destroy Destroy - Seduced By The Locrian Temptress
14. High Lively - Benediction
15. Finding Steve Cunningham - The Skyline

Artist: Sam Ashworth
Album: Gonna Get It Wrong Before I Get It Right
Label: Runway Network Records
Release: September 6, 2005
   
 

Every once in a while you find a CD that simply knocks you over and that is exactly what happened when I first heard Sam Ashworth’s debut album. I found a melodious blending of Country Pop and Indie Rock sounds that is perfect for an easy listening experience. Ashworth has written all the songs on the album and partnered with the talents of Matt Slocum of Sixpence None The Richer. In fact, Ashworth previously had a cut on Sixpence’s self titled album that went platinum and was Grammy nominated. Slocum’s skills on guitar and cello are well evidenced in this album.  With the finest quality of vocals from Ashworth this album will be getting strong media attention without a doubt. Ashworth is based out of East Nashville, Tennessee and feels that the influences of the music hub are helpful in knowing what composes a great song.

Only a few of the songs fall into the Country Pop genre, those that contains the lap steel are easy to decipher audibly. Those that fall into the County Pop category are “Look Back,” “World On Fire,” and “All Your Life.” In fact, “World On Fire” is my best pick on the album. It's into the gentle lyrics of needing someone every night and the closeness of passionate love. Truly a universal message and listeners will savor its sincerity. A simple album that is filled with feeling and soul searching; perfect for that late night listening experience. Ashworth has tremendous talent and although this is his debut album, one would think he’d been writing for decades.

Rating 9 out of 10.                                          

Written by Jane E. Powell             Go here: : Sam Ashworth

Artist: Sean Adley
Album: Searching For Stars
Label: Recorded at Spectra Kakarot (Chicago, Ill)
Release: May 17, 2005

 

This is a debut album worth taking a closer look at. Sean Adley has done a good job of song writing and maintains a Country Pop feel throughout the eight tracks. “Home Away From Home” is a nice blending of mandolin and violin and contains the lyrics “searching for the stars” from which the album title evolves. It brings a feeling of Italy, with a short burst of vibrant mandolin picking in the ending. Oddly enough, this works and as with the genre of Country Pop, there is a fine line between it and Indie Rock and the song has that feel to it. He exemplifies the whole concept of Country Pop with the pick song on the album, “She Breaks Hearts.” This is a great number and the lap steel that Adley incorporates on much of the album is at its best. The last track “Off The Ground” refers to the moon and moonlight and offers a romantic love and visions of grandeur between lovers in the starry night. It is one that Dylan could have written himself.

Adley usually plays acoustic sets near the Chicago, Illinois area. He lists some of his influences as Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Jerry Garcia, Jimi Hendrix, Blind Melon, Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin. Adley has a strong vocal appeal and does an excellent job on all songs; the choice of his backing vocalists is questionable. I feel the entire album would be of a finer quality if we could replace the back up singer on this album. Overall this is a good album and Adley is embarking on a musical journey that will transport him into realms of notoriety with succeeding albums. Go here: Sean Adley

Rating 6 out of 10.

Written by Jane E. Powell

Track listing:

1. Five Times Over My Head
2. One Of Those Days
3. Home Away From Home
4. She Breaks Hearts
5. Tracy
6. Where Did I Go Wrong
7. Next To You
8. Off The Ground

 

                                                              © Eclectic Cuts 2005