Authors: Dean O Hillis
Shake Your Head Yes: The Mynabirds – Lovers Know
In the few years between The Mynabirds’ debut and its convoking follow-up, Generals, Laura Burhenn has honed her voice to a lovely sheen. … read more
Local Review: MiNX
The chameleon-like duo of Ischa Bee and Raffi Shahinian are definitely trying to make an impression on our local music scene. With a staggering 45 free tracks available to download from their website (minxband.com), they are certainly one of the most prolific. … read more
Pet Shop Boys – Pandemonium CD/DVD Review
When The Pet Shop Boys first toured in 1989, it was a decidedly unique event. The end result was a complete eschewal of the traditional rock concert format, instead incorporating a theatrical approach with stunning visuals, multiple costume changes and the songs themselves being presented as themed concepts complete with filmed backdrops. They have continually expanded on this formula, creating a show that is both visually incredible and undeniably memorable. … read more
Madonnaʼs Celebration Video
“Celebration” is punctuated by very quick shots interlaced together, culminating in a gathering/party of the dancers of her recently wrapped “Sticky & Sweet Tour.” Madonna, of course, is center stage throughout.
On Meeting the Pet Shop Boys
Meeting a favorite artist or band can be a religious experience. One is given that rare chance to grab an autograph, a picture with their idols, a chance to tell that artist how much their music has meant to them, or just the opportunity to smile/wave/gawk at them. When my long-time favorites Pet Shop Boys announced their Fall “Pandemonium” tour with a chance to purchase a “VIP Meet and Greet” package, I jumped at the opportunity. … read more
Aimee Mann @ The State Room
Aimee Mannʼs music is comforting, melodic, beautiful and despite the unfortunate and incorrect critical tag line of it being “depressing,” (I would have chosen “realistic” if I wrote reviews back in those days) very uplifting. I was extremely excited about seeing her live for the first time, in a new venue (the great new The State Room), and especially in such an intimate setting: The State Room boasts a capacity of 300. … read more
Tori Amos – Midwinter Graces review
I can think of no greater feat than a Christmas/Holiday album helping to get you in the mood for the forthcoming holidays in October. If ever a modern artist was suited for recording a holiday/seasonal album, it must be Tori Amos. … read more
Erasure – The Innocents 21st Anniversary Review
Most people that know my musical taste know that I’m a huge Erasure fan. In fact, I would say it is an honest assessment of my fandom to state that Erasure is probably my favorite band of all time. Twenty-one years after its release, one of Vince Clarke and Andy Bell’s greatest albums has definitely stood the test of time. … read more
Pet Shop Boys Christmas EP Review
The Pet Shop Boys Christmas EP reviewed by Dean O Hillis. … read more
Suzanne Vega – Love Songs Review
I remember the first time I ever heard Suzanne Vega: It was late in the Spring of 1985 and my childhood friend Emily would play Vega’s eponymous debut in her VW Beetle’s tape deck as we drove around the Salt Lake valley. I quickly became enamored with this album and especially Vega’s perceptive lyrics and her pretty, clear voice. At that time there was no one else quite like her. … read more
Pet Shop Boys – Pandemonium CD/DVD Review
When The Pet Shop Boys first toured in 1989, it was a decidedly unique event. The end result was a complete eschewal of the traditional rock concert format, instead incorporating a theatrical approach with stunning visuals, multiple costume changes and the songs themselves being presented as themed concepts complete with filmed backdrops. They have continually expanded on this formula, creating a show that is both visually incredible and undeniably memorable. … read more
Mynabirds – What We Lose In The Fire.. Review
It’s not often that I stumble upon a new talent that overwhelms me, but when I do I want to share it with everyone that I know. When I received The Mynabirds’ debut, the heavenly What We Lose In The Fire We Gain In The Flood to review back in February, I was first intrigued by the title and then absolutely blown away by the sound. … read more
