Local CD Reviews

Q stands for Q
In Dreams Awake
Recorded at home
Mixed and mastered by Bruce Kirby, Jason McFarland, Hyrum Summerhayes
Eden’s Watchtower Records
 Q stands for Q = PJ Harvey, Loveage, Belle & Sebastian, and slow Folk Implosion

The recording of this atmospheric two piece band is nearly flawless. Loaded with layers of keyboard, acoustic guitar, and ambient background jams. Topped by sexy, ethereal female vocals (Sara Payne) and simple Roger Waters-esc counterparts (Jason McFarland). Together they deliver a Mazzy Star heroin induced disc fit for the next David Lynch downer. Best way to grasp this record is to slip on some headphones while sipping coffee and smoking cigarettes. There is a missing element of percussion that would add to the guts of this overall folk/worldly stylish group. There isn’t anything too memorable about these songs as they flow in and out of each other with hook-less beats and empty structure. Leaves me wanting more. Regardless, I’d sport this album next time I give my man a loving massage.

Glacial
The Captains of Industry
Recorded by Andy Patterson & Glacial
Sickboy Records
Glacial = Firewater, Chris Cornell anything, STP

Much better than the e.p. Excellent recording all around (especially guitars) but would add an extra punch in the stoner face if the drums loudness came up. I love the in the moment feeling I get which is translated through a Zeppelinish journey ride. Reminds me of an early, not as spacey, Cave In. The vocals need more practice though, mainly in the harmonies. The range weaves in and out of tune. Actually, the whole band sounds a little loose in the details spending more time on passion than technicalities. Over time, these guys will nail it and I can’t wait to hear the next riffin’ record. P.S. The layout is glorious!

Flee the Century
The Border of Light
Recorded by Lee Stoker
Sickboy Records
Flee the Century = Nintendo, Dr. Who, Captured by Robots w/O.G. gruff

This is mainly a vocal driven band backed by simple Devo-style synth and drums. I can imagine the ride I’d have fleeing this century in a Ferrari Testarossa listening to these dudes, but for now a mini van would suit. The recording is on. A little unbalanced in the drums but still full and rockin. The playing sounds timid due to lazy keyboard power, lack of confidence, and cool vocals that carry the band but don’t drive me. I wish you were a little more punk than pop meaning: grab your nuts and rock this shit! Be ballsy and creative cuz the blueprints are here.

After the Party
When You’re All Alone You Forget Everything You Know
Recorded at home?
After the Party = 1950’s sci-fi rock meets Emo Phillips

A little bit into this record I thought I was watching the Mighty Wind. Riddled with tweedly dee- tweedly doo saloon emo songs, this is delicious honest rock. Feeble male vocals top quirky piano diddles, eccentric guitar rock, and fabulous Theremin loops. I can respect this….we need more Theremin. Great home recording too! with a good vintage sound that’s not pretentious. All in all, the vulnerable delivery would most be fitting an after party with Wes Anderson.

Fail to Follow
For The Dead, The Dying, and Those Still Fighting
Recorded by Matt Winegar
Sub-parcore Records
Fail to Follow = H20 + Face to Face, AFI, Strung Out

If you’re a fan of post-hardcore you’re gonna love this band. Full of heart pounding, blood bearing, riot rock. Sad to say, nothing new, but great song writing, vocals, and tight playing/editing. A very radio ready recording full of compression and clarity. Although, I feel as if dynamics were sacrificed for overall loudness. Chuga chuga!

 

Conspiracy Freak
daylight in the swamps
Recorded by Dale Deavers
Conspiracy Freak = Beck + Type-O-Negative, Cracker + groove and bump, Sublime

I’m a little confused by these guys. Listening to this 14 song release sounds like two different bands competing for play time. On one side of the spectrum you have charming, aborigine beats and the other, tuneless country backwoods kazoo tracks. Best thing about the band is the DJing. Very hypnotic and droney. I believe they’re a little misguided. Maybe study some Kid Rock on how to combine soul with country. They’ve got all the rhythm but no flow. Practice singing on key for the country as well. The recording is a bit unstable adding to the divide in performances. Song #9 “lil’ martian” could be a great path to follow down a future Weenish wonderland. Be clearer in what style of music you’re after and my tit’s will get bigger.