The CD Reviewer

dyslextasy- Live. Die. Repeat.

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 19:27:23 EST

Artist: dyslextasy
Title: Live. Die. Repeat.
Website: http://www.dyslextasy.com
Style: Rock
Label: Urban Cheese Records
Rating: 8.1 out of 10

Out of the misty grunge filled fog of the Seattle music scene comes a band that likes to make a statement with their music. Whether it be in a humorous way about an unwanted party guest like in the song, "Mr. Sunshine," or on a more serious note like found in the anti-war song, "Imperial Stout."

There is also a theme of heavy alcohol consumption and some of the things that leads to that runs throughout the release.

The band does a cover of the Jimmy Webb song, "Highwayman" that's probably best known for the Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Willie Nelson 1980's version. The band does a good job with their cover of the song. The band also shows a bit of their soft side dedicating the song to the memory of John Stirrat, Fred Daniel, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and also to those that have suffered the loss of a loved one.

Live. Die. Repeat is the debut release from the band that got its start in October 2007. The band pulls on rock, punk, and garage styles of music to achieve their sound. The band's lineup is, Neel Daniel (bass, lead vocals), Pat Stirrat (guitar, organ, backing vocals), and Brian Lumb (drums, backing vocals).

The song's found on Live. Die. Repeat are well written and filled with strong guitar and drum parts. The vocals adjust themselves to fit into the mood of each song.

I think that with the music found on Live. Die. Repeat the band has firmly planted its flag into the musical landscape.

By CW Ross

Y/Our Sparkle Heart- You, Me and God

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 23:07:53 EST

Artist: Y/Our Sparkle Heart
Title: You, Me and God
Website: http://www.myspace.com/yoursparkleheart
Style: Folk Rock
Label: Future Destination Records
Rating: 9 out of 10

This group from South Carolina was formed in 2005. You, Me and God is the band's debut full-length release on Future Destination Records. Their first release was the three song EP Appointment with Optimist that was released in 2007 on the Emerald City Ruins record label.

The band's lineup is the husband and wife team of Sarah Morris (cello, violin, guitar, piano, vocals) and Ian Morris (guitars, yue qin) along with Joe Walker (percussion) and Caleb Wieters (bass).

I'm not sure of the band member's ages. I'm guessing that they must be in their early twenties, but in the picture included in their press material they look like a group of young teenagers.

This ten-song release only last for 37 minutes but oh what great music the band offers up in those minutes. You, Me and God is filled with an eclectic mix of folk-rock filled with wondrous string sounds. Exotic instruments like the Chinese lute along with more well-known string instruments like the violin and cello are found in the songs.

Also the vocals of Sarah Morris have a very inviting friendly and soothing tone to them. The songs have catchy melodies and well written lyrics.

If the band is putting out this good of music already I can't wait to see what comes next from them with a few more years of seasoning under their musical belts.

I definitely recommend you add Y/Our Sparkle Heart's You, Me and God to your must have music list!

By CW Ross

Worth Dying For- Worth Dying For

Tue, 06 May 2008 19:51:57 EST

Artist: Worth Dying For
Title: Worth Dying For
Website: http://www.worthdyingfor.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/worthdyingformusic
Style: Rock Worship
Label: Integrity Music Group
Rating: 9.5 out of 10

This is the band's first nationally distributed release. On it you'll find fifteen tracks of music that last for a whopping 64 minutes.

This band is about one thing, using their music to awaken the sleeping giant that is found in youth culture today and recruit them to stand up and take action for their faith, to take their words and put them into real actions. With this band the music is secondary to that message.

This five band members (Christy Johnson- vocals, keytar, Sean Loche- vocals, bass, Nathan Parrish -guitar, Micah Berteau -guitar, and Josh O'Haire- drums ) come out of the Phenomenon Ministries, youth ministry of the Calvary Temple of Modesto, California.

Band members Christy Johnson and Sean Loche take turns handling the lead vocal duty. This adds a nice change with the mix of male and female lead vocals.

The bands musical style is a blend of upbeat rockers, worship anthems, and several ballads. Almost all of the songs are guitar lead and the vocals found on this release are some of the most passionate that I've ever heard.

This band isn't just singing words to a song they are expressing the feelings that are flowing from their heart to music.

Appropriately the first song found on this release is titled, "Revolution." This upbeat rocker's lyrics talk about starting to really live your life for the Lord. To take a stand for your faith and not being willing to back down or compromise on your principals.

Next up is, "Let It Out" an upbeat rock meets dance number praising the Lord. "Unite" is a rock anthem that calls for all believers to take a stand for their faith. "Crazy" is a play on how some people thing that if you worship God you must be crazy. The song takes that misguided thought and uses it for a positive.

Tracks 5-7 ("Die to Live", "Holy" and "Consume Me Now") all flow together in a meld of melodic praise and worship songs. Track-8 "All We," is another rock anthem that deals with salvation and its freeing powers. Track-9 "At Your Cross" is a very passionate ballad that starts softly with a steady drumbeat and builds up in tempo.

Next up is "Me Only Me" a pop rock song that talks about the fact that there is really only one thing that you need in your life- God. "Take Me," is another ballad that starts softly and builds into a power ballad that talks about being broken and laying it all at the foot of the cross.

Track-12 "Lose Myself" talks about living a life with your eyes more on God and less on the world. Followed by "The Change," a song dealing with this generation taking a stand and not being willing to live an unholy life. Calling for God's Spirit to guide them.

Track-14 "Unafraid" starts off as a soft piano ballad and ends as a power ballad. It's about letting go of the past and moving forward. It all wraps up with track-15, "Infiltrate." It starts out with hip-hop like lyrics that have a bit of an angry tone that talks about their faith not being able to be compromised, taking a stand, and finally declaring that, 'I am a disciple of Jesus!'

This release will take your breath away. The songs are so powerful and passionate. If ever music could pull people to their feet and unite them to start a faith revolution this release is the one.

Whether you need to come to the Lord or just get a good jumpstart on your stalled faith life then you need to get this wonderful release from Worth Dying For.

The highest compliment I think that I could give this band is simply, this CD is filled with music that ministers.

By CW Ross

Welcome

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:40:12 EST

Hi,

Thanks for stopping by my blog. I really like listening to music and writing about it.

Here's you'll find loads of CD reviews of all different style of music.

Feel free to look around and contact me if you have any comments, suggestions or thoughts.

By CW Ross

We've Moved- New Site

Wed, 14 May 2008 20:47:13 EST

Hi,

We've moved. I've made the decision to take my three websites and roll them into just one site. This will make it easier for me and the rest of the staff.

If you've sent me something it will be reviewed on the new site.

Also make sure that you have the new site's URL bookmarked so that you can get to it.

Your bookmark should point to:

http://www.thecdreviewer.com

Thanks.

By CW Ross

Virginia Coalition- Home This Year

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 22:38:39 EST

Artist: Virginia Coalition
Title: Home This Year
Website: http://www.virginiacoalition.com
Style: Rock/ Folk Rock
Rating: 9.2 out of 10

Virginia Coalition released their first album; The Colors of the Sound, in 1998, now 10 years later comes their latest (5th)release, Home This Year.

The core of the band is Andy Poliakoff (vocals/guitar), Paul Ottinger (keyboard/ guitar/vocals/percussion), and Jarrett Nicolay (bass/guitar/vocals), although you'll also find several other musicians credited for their playing on this album.

Unlike some of the band's previous releases that liked to mix up the styles this one stayed pretty much on course with its blend of pop/rock/folk style of music. While listening to the songs artist like, Marc Cohn, The Clarks and The Wallflowers sound came to mind.

The band really wanted to make sure that the songs found on Home This Year where perfect so for the first time the band decided to collaborate with other songwriters, including Brooklyn folk-rocker Ari Hest, New Orleans-based bluesman Anders Osborne, Maia Sharp who wrote "A Home" for the Dixie Chicks, David Ryan Harris who's performed with John Mayer and the album's Producer, Marshall Altman (Marc Broussard, Matt Nathanson).

The result is a really great collection of songs that are very well written and deal both with lighter subjects along with more thought-provoking ones like found in track-4, "Not Scared" that deals with the subject of interracial love.

Over the years the band has built up a very loyal following along with a reputation for a must-see live show. This release should help to keep that fanbase growing.

The band's music is really tight and well performed and the lyrics really fit the songs. Like a fine wine Virginia Coalition has proved with their latest release Home This Year bands also get better with age.

By CW Ross

Under the Black Sails- Under the Black Sails EP

Wed, 07 May 2008 21:27:42 EST

Artist: Under the Black Sails
Title: Under the Black Sails EP
Website: http://www.myspace.com/blacksails
Style: Punk Rock
Rating: 7.5 out of 10

If you're looking for hard driving, f*** the world, type of punk rock music then Under the Black Sails is your band. This band has been making a name for themselves in the Kansas City, Missouri area including winning the 2007 Kansas City Punk Wars Championship.

This band trio of, Marcus (guitar), Derek (vocals/bass) and Pedro (drums) are filled with raw energy that comes across on the six songs found on this EP.

From the first over driven guitar chord and rapid drumbeats the songs grab you by the throat and don't let go. The vocals boom out from the speakers as they rail again politics, society and life.

You can catch the band live now on their, 'No Flags, No Patriots' tour. In May and June they'll be hitting, Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Wisconsin and Nebraska. Checkout their MySpace site for exact dates.

By CW Ross

Umbrella Tree- The Church & the Hospital

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 22:44:49 EST

Artist: Umbrella Tree
Title: The Church & the Hospital
Style: Alternative/Progressives/Experimental
Website: http://www.myspace.com/umbrellatree
Label: Cephalopod Records
Rating: 7.2 out of 10

The Church & the Hospital is the follow up to the band's debut release, What Kind of Books Do You Read?, that was released in the Spring of 2006.

The musical trio that makes up Umbrella Tree is, Derek Pearson (drums, percussion), Jillian Leigh (vocals, keys), and Zachary Gresham (vocals, guitar, bass).

To say that Umbrella Tree's music is different would be a huge understatement. Their music reminds me of a Broadway show chorus soundtrack more than a straight-ahead music CD. You'll also find a bit of a dark, Goth like, side to their music.

The songs feature male and female vocals that interact with each other almost acting out each song as they sing. I have a strong feeling that to really experience this band you need to see them live. I'm guessing that the visual part of their show is almost as important as the music itself.

The Church & the Hospital is one of those types of CD's that demand you full attention. As the music plays your mind will be pondering all that's happening in both the song's instrumentation and vocals.

If you like your music with twist and turns and a little bit off of the beaten musical path then Umbrella Tree is going to quickly become your favorite band.

By CW Ross

Trapper Schoepp Band- A Change in the Weather

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 19:35:40 EST

Artist: Trapper Schoepp Band
Title: A Change in the Weather
Website: http://www.myspace.com/trapperschoeppband
Style: Folk Rock/Acoustic
Rating: 7.9 out of 10

Even though this band is made up of five teenagers that fact is quickly forgotten once the music starts. Lead vocalist and band namesake Trapper Schoepp (lead vocals, guitar) has deep booming tenor vocals that sound way beyond his young tender years.

Filling out the rest of the band's lineup is, Tanner Schoepp (bass, alternate drums, vocals), David Boigenzahn (keyboard, guitar, vocals), David Dulak (drums), and Pat (violin, mandolin).

A Change in the Weather is the debut release from the band and features 9 original songs. The band's press release compares their sound to Wilco, and Bob Dylan. I can't say that I heard the Wilco sound but I definitely heard the Bob Dylan influence on their music.

Songs like, "Running Away From the Day," and "As Long As You're Feelin' Alright" had the meandering folk rock Dylan-esque sound to them.

The songs have an originality to them that will peak your interest. One of my favorite tracks on the CD was the 3:45 in length instrumental track, "Jennings Original" that had a real jam band sound to it.

The release wraps up with the epic 12 minutes long song, "Falling Back." This song has an ebb-and-flow like that of an ocean wave alternating between grand and melodic in tempo.

With A Change in the Weather this band has laid down for themselves a solid musical foundation to build their musical future upon.

By CW Ross

The Details- Draw a Distance. Draw a Border

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 18:59:07 EST

Artist: The Details
Title: Draw a Distance. Draw a Border
Website: http://www.thedetails.ca
Style: Rock
Rating: 8 out of 10

This group was formed in 2005 and hails from Winnipeg, Canada. The Details line-up is: Jon Plett (vocals, guitar, keyboard), Keli Martin (bass, keyboard, vocals), Sean Vidal (guitar, keyboards, vocals), and Shaun Gibson (drums, piano, vocals).

The band previously released a 5 song EP in 2006 but Draw a Distance. Draw a Border is their debut full-length release.

This release deals with looking back over one's life and seeing how choices that you've made, both good and bad, have lead to where you are at in the present time of your life. The songs also have a small thread of spirituality that runs throughout them.

I would classify this as a thinking man's type release. The lyrics are very introspective and bring words like, melancholy, bittersweet and searching to mind while listening to it.

This release also gets credit for having one of the longest song titles that I've heard in a long time. Track-5's title is, "I Asked What We Should Do. You Said, "I Just Don't Want To Think."

Musically the style is Indie rock mainly driven by guitar parts that also includes a wide variety of side instruments like, keyboards, trumpet, cello, pedal steel, viola, and banjo that add flavor twists to the songs.

The songs also have interesting arrangements with really abrupt endings found on them. At first listen it sounds a little weird but after thinking about it awhile I've decided that I liked it and can appreciate that the songs are all meat and no filler.

For those of you in Canada you'll get a chance to hear the band play live on a coast-to-coast Canadian tour in April and May.

I liked what I heard on Draw a Distance. Draw a Border. The band added some nice elements to the songs that kept the sound both fresh and entertaining.

By CW Ross

The Boroughs- The Boroughs

Thu, 01 May 2008 23:11:41 EST

Artist: The Boroughs
Title: The Boroughs
Website: http://www.theboroughs.net
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/theboroughs
Style: Punk/ Garage Rock
Rating: 7.8 out of 10

The Boroughs got their start back in late 2003. Their lineup is, Ryan Dwork (guitar, lead vocals), Justin Farrell (bass, backing vocals), and Grady Feldgus (drums).

The band has release two previous musical projects ( 3-Song Demo- 2004,Ostritch EP- 2005) but this self-titled release is the band's first full-length (LP) release.

This CD lives up to the full part with its 13-tracks of music lasting over 53 minutes. Unlike the usual punk quick hitters the average length of the songs found on this release are just over 4 minutes each, with track-9 "Spine" lasting a whopping 6:49.

The first four tracks of music are straight ahead all out punk rock with their wailing guitars, pounding drum beats, and powerful vocals.

From track-5 through 9 the band takes a few side trips down the garage rock, EMO, and even the folk musical style roads.

Track-10 and 11 pick back up with a post punk style while the last two tracks, 12 goes more for a classic rock mood and it all wraps up with a ballad, track-13, "Say What Ya Want."

The first half of this release really nails it with the rough edges left in and not polished up in production end sound. When the band decides to take a few side-trips though on the second half it just didn't work as well for me.

There's no doubt that this band has talent, if they can keep true to their punk roots this band should have a long future, if not they could find themselves falling back into the pack of so-so bands.

By CW Ross

Taxi Doll- Strange Rush

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 00:56:55 EST

Artist: Taxi Doll
Title: Strange Rush
Website: http://www.taxidoll.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/taxidol
Style: Electronic/Pop Rock
Label: Antidote Media
Rating: 8 out of 10

This group got started in late 2004. Inspired by bands like Garbage, Chemical Brothers, Depeche Mode and Blondie the group plays a blend of electronic and pop/rock that they describe as, 'Rocktronica.' The band says that they were formed to, "...bridge the gap between pop-rock and electronic music."

The stunning blonde haired European singer simply known as Dhana fronts the band. Her seductive soft vocals lure you into each song like the inviting web of the spider lures a fly to its demise. Lucky for us though the only thing you'll get from listening to Dhana's vocals are entertainment and for some maybe the need for a cold shower.

Dhana isn't doing it alone though she's joined by fellow group members, Gregg Allen (keyboards), Jason Graham (drums), Brian Hendrix (bass), and Matt Emmer (guitar).

The band takes their name from the bouncy dolls that use to be found in the back windows of taxicabs.

The band also has carved themselves a very big niche in both film and TV with their music appearing in movies like, "John Tucker Must Die," "Firewall," and "Shall We Dance." Along with in shows including, "Laguna Beach," "The Hills," "CSI: NYC," and "Veronica Mars."

What you'll find in the 5 songs found on this release are songs that combine club, techno, and electronic sounds along with rock beats all topped off with seductive vocals.

Taxi Dolls' Strange Rush should appeal to several different groups including, techno, club, and experimental rockers.

Also you really have to stop by and checkout their really cool looking website. It's done entirely in flash and gives you the view like you're inside of a taxicab.

By CW Ross

Standing Small- Oh Sweet Child

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 22:58:47 EST

Artist: Standing Small
Title: Oh Sweet Child EP
Website: http://www.standingsmall.com
Style: Modern Rock
Label: Future Destination Records ( http://www.fdrecords.com )
Rating: 8.6 out of 10

The four guys that make up Standing Small are, Ryan Fletcher, Ben Howard, Corey Goins, and Jeremy Taylor. This is a band that keeps the focus of their music on the ministry part.

They take their faith very serious and that comes through in their songs. These guys are totally sold out to serving the Lord and want to spread His love to everyone that they meet through their music.

The band's Oh Sweet Child EP consist of new recordings of five songs, "I Need You", "Strings", "Oh to Know", "I'm Coming Back", and "Grace Through Iniquity", along with one previously unreleased song, "When You're Lost".

The songs have a modern rock feel to them that's interspersed with worship. The songs offer up smooth melodies along with from-the-heart vocals that are filled with passion.

My favorite song was track-6, "When You're Lost" a really nicely done acoustic guitar ballad.

Standing Small is one of those rare band's that really get what real faith is all about and show it in the way that they reach out to others in a loving Christ-like way with their music.

By CW Ross

Stacie Rose- Shotgun Daisy

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 05:37:59 EST

Artist: Stacie Rose
Title: Shotgun Daisy
Website: http://www.stacierose.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/stacierose
Style: SingerSongwriter/ Pop
Label: Enchanted Records
Rating: 7.8 out of 10

This Jersey girl lists everyone from, Fleetwood Mac, Chrissy Hynde, Billy Holiday, The Eagles, and U2 to Tom Petty, Heart, The Police, Donna Summer, Smashing Pumpkins, Blondie and Sarah Vaughn as some of her musical influences.

Her songs have been featured on MTV shows, The Hills, Sorority Life, and Fraternity Life along with her song, "Find Your Way" being licensed to AMC to be used to help promote the channel's prime time movies.

Stacie Rose's latest release, Shotgun Daisy, is a collection of songs that walk the line between several different styles of music including, but not limited to, singer/songwriter, pop/rock and a touch of country.

Her singing voice can change as needed to fit whatever that particular song needs, from soft and seductive to all out rocking vocals. While listening to her vocals names like, Aimee Mann, Sheryl Crow, Jewel, and Shawn Colvin came to mind.

I also have to mention the well-done guitar and drum work found on this release. There is an ever-present deep drumbeat that really powers the songs while not over shadowing the vocals. The guitar parts also jet in-and-out adding touches of spice to the songs.

The songs found on Shotgun Daisy deal with things Stacie has dealt with in her life. Her struggles, going through the hard times, the many sides of love, and overcoming whatever you face.

Fellow artist Shawn Mullins joins Stacie on the song, "Run Out," a country duet love song.

The CD takes its title, Shotgun Daisy from a nickname given to Stacie due to her frantic fast paced lifestyle. The release was co-produced by Jeff Allen (Duncan Sheik, Roseanne Cash) and Robert L. Smith (David Bowie, Rickie Lee Jones).

Shotgun Daisy offers up a nice collection of songs that showcases the many facet of Stacie Rose's music.

By CW Ross

Rosey- Luckiest Girl

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:23:39 EST

Artist: Rosey
Title: Luckiest Girl
Website: http://www.roseymusic.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/rosey
Style: Jazz
Label: Quango Music Group
Rating: 7.9 out of 10

With this new release Rosey has really shifted musical gears from her 2002 pop/rock debut release, Dirty Child. Rosey has always had a desire to put out a jazz album but it wasn't until recently that all of the necessary parts of the puzzle fell into place for that to happen and the result is her latest release, Luckiest Girl.

"I always dreamed of making timeless music, plus people have always told me my voice was well-suited to jazz and that I should try it," says Rosey. "So I hooked up with (longtime friend and legendary session player) Hugh McCracken to record a bunch of standards. A few days into those sessions, we starting writing a song I called "The Old Fashioned Way," which really set the pace for the record. With everybody and their mom putting out a standards album, I knew I had to go full steam and write my own jazzy repertoire. I am a songwriter after all, so it just made more sense to do it that way. I do enjoy a good challenge, and musically, this one was massive."

Luckiest Girl manages to mix old style jazz, ala Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Etta James, with the modern smoky sexiness of Rosey's vocals.

Listening to Rosey's music brought a very vivid picture to mind of being in a little jazz club located slightly off-the-beaten path on the wrong side of the town's tracks.

As you open the door to enter a small wisp of smoke escapes. You enter the dimly lit room to see a sultry Rosey perched in the corner of the room leaning against a piano as a small spotlight located behind her emits a glow that outline her silhouette.

Rosey's inviting vocals ring out cutting through the smoky air to light up the room as they're accompanied by sweet piano notes, along with muted saxophone, trumpet, guitar, and drum parts.

To me any music that can paint that clear of a picture for me has to be doing something right.

With such a change in musical style from her previous music Rosey might loose some of her fan base. But those that are willing to take the leap to hear her jazz sound are in for a pleasant surprise.

By CW Ross

Peter Bloom Band- Random Thoughts (from a paralyzed mind)

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 18:16:01 EST

Artist: Peter Bloom Band
Title: Random Thoughts (from a paralyzed mind)
Website: http://www.peterbloom.ca
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/peterbloommusic
Style: Singer Songwriter / Pop-Rock
Rating: 9 out of 10

Peter Bloom is an artist that has a story to tell and lucky for us he's done just that with his debut release, Random Thoughts (from a paralyzed mind).

Peter has had to overcome a lot in his life including a chronic voice disorder known as MTD (Muscle Tension Dysphonia) that only after visiting with several different doctors was he able to find one who treated the condition successfully.

That would have been enough to discourage most people but Peter also had to deal with a rare condition known as Alopecia Universalis that caused him to lose all of his head, face, and body hair.

Coming from that perspective you might think that this release would be filled with a collection of bitter songs. The exact opposite is true Peter puts out the message of overcoming and hope in the songs in a very real life honest way.

The band list, The Beatles, U2, Queen, Verve, Oasis, Stereophonics, Keane, Travis, Roy Orbison, Bruce Springsteen, and Led Zeppelin as their musical influences.

One other name I might throw into that list is Elton John. On track-5, "Helping Hand," you'll find a sound that really has a vintage Elton John vibe to it.

The music found on Random Thoughts (from a paralyzed mind) is a collection of very well done songs that range from the ballad, "Haven't Hit The Floor Yet," that deals with living with Alzheimer's, which Peter's best friend's dad is living with. Songs like, "Letting Go" have a pop feel and deals with not holding on to baggage from the past and letting go so that you can truly enjoy your life, to the rock edged song, "Careful."

Peter really likes to connect with his audiences and enjoys playing live shows. Here's a little bit about that taken from his press material,

"... I'm all for digital downloads of great songs, but there's still no replacement for the vibe that happens when musicians perform their material live. The best bands to me are those who don't simply reproduce their songs in concert but offer a different take that's equally valid, emotional and powerful, yet altogether original. I strive for that kind of connection, and there's no greater feeling, no better rush than to connect with people through the songs I have written. It's a great honor to bring the same kind of joy and inspiration to people as my musical idols, from Lennon and McCartney to Bono have done for me."

One thing that you can't help but take away from this release is the fact that Peter is an over comer and has a message to get out there. He's a very talented person and has surrounded himself with some very talented fellow musicians that make this release well worth buying.

By CW Ross

Nigel Clothier- Book of Days

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 20:05:38 EST

Artist: Nigel Clothier
Title: Book of Days
Website: http://www.myspace.com/nigelclothier
Style: Singer-Songwriter
Rating: 8 out of 10

Nigel Clothier is a British singer songwriter. On this release from him, he's also pretty much a one-man band, playing all of the instrument parts, handling all of the vocals, along with having written all of the songs found on Book of Days. The only other major credit goes to album producer Fran Ashcroft (Gorillaz, Dandy Warhols).

Nigel has a sound that harkens back to the late 60's/early 70's ala Neil Young and Bob Dylan. His songs offer simple arrangements while being far from simplistic. There is much packed into each song's story to maul over in your head. Each song lets out a little bit of what can be found in Nigel's heart.

The releases title, Book of Days, is very appropriate with each song acting almost like it's own little chapter in a musical book. For the most part the songs have a melodic flow to them with an underlying bit of a country sound via Nigel's pedal steel work.

Track-10 "Exceptin' A Beach," is the releases one really upbeat song. It has a honky-tonk flavor with its steady beats and tinkling piano parts found on it.

This release is filled with a collection of very well done music that harkens back to a time when the musical troubadour's reigned.

By CW Ross

Michael English- The Prodigal Comes Home

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 18:28:49 EST

Artist: Michael English
Title: The Prodigal Comes Home
Website: http://www.michaelenglishmusic.com
Style: Contemporary
Label: Curb Records
Rating: 8.5 out of 10

This is Michael's first studio album in 8 years. He has release three previous studio releases along with a greatest hit's CD, and a recent Christmas project.

As the releases title implies this album is about redemption, and God's grace, love, and forgiveness.

English, like the prodigal son, got off-track taking a side trip down the road of addiction. This release is about his overcoming and growing from it.

The music alternates between contemporary, praise and worship, and light rock. This release though is all about the lyrics. They are filled with hope for the downtrodden along with the unending grace and love that God has for us.

No matter how bad things may get, or seem to be, God's right there beside us waiting for us to let Him back into the driver's seat of our lives.

My two favorite tracks from the CD are:

1. "The Only Thing Good in Me"- You've probably heard this song on the radio already. It's a powerful song that deals with living a life filled with compromises in your faith, and God's grace to overcome them.

2. "A New Day"- probably the most rock-edged song on the release it deals with each day offering the opportunity to start new and put the past behind for the saved and the freedom and cleansing that salvation offers for the unsaved.

There is also a book by the same name that is being released in partnership with the CD that can be purchased separately.

There's never been any question about Michael's talent and with The Prodigal Comes Home he proves that the Bible's prodigal story is still relevant today.

Michael has turned a negative in his life into a positive that I'm sure will help many people that have, or are going through, similar situations.

You'll be able to catch Michael live this Spring on the, 'We Will Stand Tour' with fellow artist Avalon, Cadia, and the Daniel Doss Band. Checkout his website for dates and locations where the tour will be stopping.

By CW Ross

Liberty N' Justice- 4-All: The Best of LNJ

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 20:47:50 EST

Artist: Liberty N' Justice
Title: 4-All: The Best of LNJ
Website: http://www.libertynjustice.net
Label: Versailles Records/ LNJ Records
Style: Hard Rock/ Heavy Metal
Rating: 9.5 out of 10

LNJ front man Justin Murr has a real talent for putting together all-star style releases. His latest is a greatest hits collection called, 4-All: The Best of LNJ.

This release is filled with a monster sized 18-tracks of music that last for over 72 minutes.

The songs break down this way:

The first four tracks are brand new songs.
Tracks 5-7 are taken from the 2004 release, Welcome to the Revolution.
Tracks 8-12 come from the 2006 release, Soundtrack of a Soul.
Tracks 13-18 come from the 2007 release, Independence Day.

The songs are filled with a who's-who of 80's and 90's rock n' roll royalty appearing as guest artist on them.

Here's a small list of some of them, Lou Gramm (Foreigner), Sebastian Bach, Dale and Troy Thompson (Bride), Michael Sweet (Stryper), Leif Garrett, Mark Slaughter (Slaughter), Tony Harnell (x-TNT), Stephen Pearcey (Ratt), John Corabi (Ratt, ex-Motley Crue), Jack Russell (Great White), Jani Lane (Warrant), Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger), Kelly Keeling (Transiberrian Orchestra/Blue Murder/TSO), Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper Band, Skid Row, Ratt, L.A. Guns), Jamie Rowe (Guardian), and Doug Pinnick (Kings X)

You'll find the occasional power ballad and more melodic number but for the most part this release is a hard rocking lollapalooza. The songs are filled with wailing guitars and break the windows powerful drum work along with stellar vocals.

If your new to Liberty N' Justice's music you definitely need to get this release. If you're a longtime follower of their music you probably have most of the songs already found on it but I still think it's worth buying to hear the four new songs.

By CW Ross

Kate Russell- Kicking Down the Door

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:03:52 EST

Artist: Kate Russell
Title: Kicking Down the Door
Website: http://www.katerussellonline.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/katerussellonline
Style: Country/ Rock
Label: Urunga Records
Rating: 8.9 out of 10

Kate Russell is a Sydney, Australia born multi-talented musician, composer, and singer/songwriter. Kicking Down the Door is the follow up to her successful debut release, Powerful Stuff.

Kate's music blends country, rock, and adult contemporary elements to achieve a sound that she describes as, 'Country Barbecue Music.' She says, "It's the kind of fun, dancing, rocking music you want to hear while you're socializing at a barbecue."

Kate Russell list, Patsy Cline, Patty Loveless, Shania Twain, Keith Urban, and Bonnie Raitt as some of her musical influences.

This release doesn't take long to get the party started. The first two tracks ("Mr. Right", "Our Redneck Neighbor") are upbeat C&W meet rock songs that will have your toes tapping.

"Mr. Right" deals with all of the different guys and their flaws that you have to go through in search of 'Mr. Right.' Dating, relationships, and trying to find the right guy is a central theme that runs through many of the songs found on Kicking Down the Door.

"Our Redneck Neighbor" takes a Jeff Foxworthy like look at a redneck neighbor that I'm sure we've all had to deal with at one time in our life.

The next several tracks alternate between rockers and more melodic country/adult contemporary numbers.

Track-8 "Table32" is a nice song that deals with not being too quickly to judge a situation on appearance or first impressions.

It's the story of a waitress at the end of the night having pulled a double shift and just wanting to go home. A couple comes in though and sets down, as she's ready to go. The man is older looking in his mid-50's while the woman appears to only be in her 20's. They seem to be very affectionate towards each other so the waitress thinks that it's just a case of a dirty old man trying to relive his youth through this young woman.

As the waitress approaches and tells them the place is closing she finds out that the couple is a father and daughter that having been separated are meeting for the first time. This is a very poignant song that drives home the point to not judge others so quickly.

Track-9 "The Cell Phone Song" deals with one of my pet peeves cell phones. Yes-there great when used right but people give it a break. Some people are addicted to these things and never take a break from using them. That is the case in this humorous look at cell phone use.

The release wraps up nicely with track-10, "Kick Down the Door." It's an upbeat number that talks about waiting for that one special guy that will kick down the door to your heart. Meeting that one special person that you know immediately is your soul mate.

Kicking Down the Door showcases Kate Russell's talents. With its mix of styles this release should appeal to a wide variety of listeners.

By CW Ross

Kalliopi- Around the World

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 23:11:12 EST

Artist: Kalliopi
Title: Around the World
Website: http://www.kalliopi.eu.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/kalliopimusic
Style: Pop/Rock
Rating: 8.2 out of 10

Hailing from Greece Kalliopi is a pop/rock, singer/songwriter. She list her musical influences as, Madonna, U2, Blondie, Joan Jett, Garbage, David Bowie, Sting, The Rolling Stones, The B-52's, Alanis Morissette, Led Zeppelin, and The White Stripes.

If I had to pick from that list I would say that her sound is a mixture of Madonna meets the band Garbage.

Around the World is a CD Single featuring three songs lasting twelve minutes in total.

Track-1 "Around the World" and track-2 "Naked" are upbeat pop rockers. While track-3 "Fire and Sea" slows it down going the melodic ballad route.

It's hard to take a lot away from a short release but one thing I can tell you is that Kalliopi has wide ranging vocals that grab you attention and don't let go.

This is a release that will have you asking ...more please!

By CW Ross

Joshua Eagle- Truthful Beginnings

Sun, 04 May 2008 20:03:00 EST

Artist: Joshua Eagle
Title: Truthful Beginnings
Website: http://www.myspace.com/joshuameagle
Style: Acoustic/ Folk Rock
Label: Indicity Records
Rating: 8.3 out of 10

Truthful Beginnings is Joshua's debut release on the upstart label Indicity Records. Joshua Eagle's style can best be described as a blend of acoustic, folk and singer-songwriter.

One of Joshua's main musical influences is Neil Young and that shows in his music. The songs found on Truthful Beginnings are infused with heavy fingerpicked acoustic guitar notes layered with large doses of harmonica. While Joshua's vocals methodically tell each song's story.

Truthful Beginnings has a nice flow that invites you to sit down with your favorite beverage, prop up your feet, set back and listen to all that it has to offer up.

If you're a fan of artists like, Neil Young, Nick Drake, Tom Waits, Bob Dylan, and Elvis Costello then Joshua Eagle's music is for you.

By CW Ross

John Oszajca - Elephant Graveyard

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 18:33:01 EST

Artist: John Oszajca
Title: Elephant Graveyard
Website: http://www.johnoszajca.com
MySpace: http://myspace.com/johnoszajca
Style: Folk/Blues/Rock/Alt. Country
Label: Dreamy Draw Music
Rating: 9 out of 10

When John first contacted me about his music I hadn't heard of him before but after reading his press material I started thinking that maybe I was the only person who hadn't.

John's music has received rave reviews from major publications like Entertainment Weekly, People, and The Los Angeles Times.

Sir Elton John also mentioned him in an interview Sir Elton said, "There are a couple of albums I've been playing. One is by John Oszajca... it's a cross between T-Rex and Beck, and it's good music to listen to."

John has also performed with artist like, Jewel, Brian Setzer, Eve 6, and the Mighty Mighty Bosstones to name a few.

John wrote all of the songs found onElephant Graveyard. He also handled- vocals, acoustic and electric guitar, percussion, and drums duties. He's joined on the album by Dave Darling - electric and acoustic guitar, bass, drums, percussion, keyboards, programming, and back up vocals, Ted Andreadis - piano, accordion and harmonium and Graham Hitchcock - stand up bass.

Needless to say after reading all of the accolades about him I was anticipating finding some really good music on John Oszajca's latest (his 3rd album overall) release Elephant Graveyard.

I wasn't disappointed John blends many different styles to fill the songs found on this release. You'll find touches of rock, folk, alt. country, blues and even some comedy all mixed together to form a dynamite release.

I could hear so many different influences in his music from Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, and Beck, to Johnny Cash and Wilco.

When he was asked about his songs he replied, "My songs are vehicles for story telling, but they're also my way of taking something that is subjective and making it objective; allowing me to move beyond whatever hardship or pain might have been the reason for the song in the first place."

One thing that really hit me about this record is that you can tell John's having fun with his music and it really comes through in the songs. He's at that point in his career where he can take his music in any direction that he wants it to go.

In his press material when asked about the album's unusual name, Elephant Graveyard John gave the following explanation, "According to popular myth, older elephants instinctively leave their group when they reach a certain age, and direct themselves toward a special area known as the Elephant Graveyard." John laughs, "Then they die there alone, away from the group. In the case of my record, the title is certainly not intended to be a foreboding of any end but rather a personal acknowledgement, however cynical, that this record really represents who and what I am as a songwriter, as an artist. It suggests that if I only got to make one more album, ELEPHANT GRAVEYARD would be it."

Let's hope for all of our sakes that John's time to go off to an 'Elephant Graveyard' is far off and that he has many more new releases still left in him.

By CW Ross

Human Project II- Humanized

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 03:20:48 EST

Artist: Human Project II
Title: Humanized
Website: http://www.humanrocks.net
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/thehumanprojectband
Style: Blues/Rock
Rating: 9.4 out of 10

Putting in long hours for no pay working on the site it's CD's like Humanized that makes it all worth it. This release is one of those rare gems that grabs you from the beginning and doesn't let go.

The Human in the Human Project is Loyd Vandergriff a singer songwriter from Visalia, California. Loyd was big into music playing in several rock bands during his high school years. He stopped though taking 30 years off until 5 years ago when he decided to pick his trusty Stratocaster back up.

His musical influences include, Elvin Bishop, Bob Seger, Wet Willie, The Rascals, ZZ Top, Delbert McClinton, Tommy Castro, Steve Earle, Moon Martin, and Marshall Crenshaw.

His first CD, The Real Stuff, was released in 2006. Humanized is his latest effort and it really shines brightly. What a loss for the music community it would have been if he hadn't gotten back into his music.

Joining the Human on this release is longtime friend, Dana Long, along with, John Dees, Tom Scott, Rocky Boosalis, Rudy Parris, Cole Fonseca, Gina Taylor, Dina P, and John King.

The music found on Humanized is a bluesy rock filled with great guitar work. The release grabs you right from the start with track-1, "Goin South," an island rock song filled with soaring keyboards, congas, and saxophone parts. The song talk about a magical journey that goes throughout the south ending up on famed Beal St. in Memphis, Tennessee listening to BB King play in his nightclub.

From there the southern rock and gritty blues join the party. Track-2, "Drive, Drive, Drive" is an up-tempo blues rocker filled with steady drumbeats. Track-3 "Bad Momma," is another up-tempo track that deals with drug and alcohol substance abuse set against a wailing saxophone.

Track-4, "Creepers," slows it down with its melodic blues flow that talks about dogs barking, a full moon, and not getting caught in the wrong part of town at night.

Track-5, "My V8 Ford" pumps it up with fast drumbeats. The song reminds me of a mix between the drum work found in the song "Wipe Out" meets Chuck Berry's song about his hot rod Lincoln.

Track-6, "High Anxiety," takes a trip down to the Deep South for some Mississippi Delta Blues filled with slide guitar, and harmonica. The song is about the way towns have expanded everywhere and how hard it is these days to just get away from the hustle and bustle to a peaceful place to relax.

Track-7, "Deep River," a medium rock song is about broken relationships. Track-8, "Taxman II," is one for the blue collar working man. It laments about the plight of the workingman being taxed to death by a government budget filled with pork barrel projects.

Track-9, "Modern Day Folksong," is about the mess the worlds in today with the terrorists looking to kill anyone that doesn't agree with them.

Track-10, "Goin Downtown," is an all out party rocker. It's all about heading to the bar putting on the jukebox and letting go and releasing all of the stress that's built up in you.

If you want to hear Loyd's music you'll have to get one of his CD's because he rarely performs live, which is a shame. His style of music really lends itself to a live show atmosphere and I'm sure that he would tear down the house.

Whether you like, southern rock, the blues, or just good music Humanized needs to be on your next shopping list!

Loyd dedicated this release to his deceased mother, Marie. I'm sure she's smiling down on him.

By CW Ross

Holly Long- Leaving Kansas

Sun, 04 May 2008 00:54:29 EST

Artist: Holly Long
Title: Leaving Kansas
Website: http://www.hollylong.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/hollylongmusic
Style: Singer- Songwriter
Label: Skim Milk Productions
Rating: 8.2 out of 10

Leaving Kansas is Holly's third full-length release. Her two previous full-length releases were, City Girl (2000) and Every Little Seam (2004).

To get the real feel for this latest release from Holly I have to give you a little bit of background information on her. Holly suffered a severe heart infection known as Endocarditis that left her in a coma for one week and made her have to relearn the simplest of day-to-day task like walking.

Set against that backdrop the songs found on Leaving Kansas are powerful and from the heart. Holly wrote all of the songs found on the album so each one tells a little story about her life. Instead of becoming bitter she uses her past problems to offer up an album of enduring and overcoming whatever life throws your way.

As I listened to the songs found on Leaving Kansas it had the feel almost like reading Holly's diary. Holly's soft vocals make you feel like your listening to a friend share their life stories with you.

Holly's musical influences are wide ranging including, Elton John, Carole King, Paul McCartney, Ron Sexsmith, Ryan Adams, Jeff Buckley, John Lennon, Aimee Mann, Neil Finn, Crowded House, Beatles, John Hiatt, Stevie Wonder, Jim Croce, America, CSNY, Pink Floyd, Simon & Garfunkel, Bill Withers, Tracy Chapman, Tori Amos, Van Morrison, Elvis Costello, Keith Jarrett, and Prince.

Holly's music is like her musical influences and vary from song-to-song. On Leaving Kansas you'll find singer-songwriter, folk, country and even touches of a funky sound found on track-7, "Pain and Glory."

It's lucky for us that Holly is an over comer and has used her life experiences to create an honest and uplifting album like Leaving Kansas for us to enjoy.

By CW Ross

Heath Street- Heath Street

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 19:30:30 EST

Artist: Heath Street
Title: Heath Street
Website: http://www.heathstreetmusic.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/heathstreetmusic
Rating: 7.8 out of 10

Although you'll find several other members in Heath Street the main driving force behind the band is singer songwriter Scott Fruhan. His vocals are what drive the story inspired songs found on this self-titled release.

Heath Street got its start in 2000 in Cambridge, Massachusetts's coffeehouses and the hallowed halls of Harvard College. The band list several music influences but the one I heard most in their music was James Taylor.

As I listened to each of the songs found on this release words like melodic, soothing, and comforting kept popping into my head. Scott's vocals have a soothing tone that evokes a relaxing feeling as you ponder the song's cerebral lyrics.

While most of the songs fall into a melodic folksy-pop style the last track, that for some reason isn't listed either on the CD's jacket or CD itself is, "Ain't Gonna Let My Soul Fly," an upbeat chorus filled spiritual.

The only complaint I have about this release is besides the last track the rest of the songs have an almost mono-style to them. I would have liked to hear a little more variety in the songs.

Besides that the release is well done and offers up a lot of subject matter to ponder over as you listen to it.

By CW Ross

Fortune 500- Fly to the Sun

Sat, 10 May 2008 21:32:53 EST

Artist: Fortune 500
Title: Fly to the Sun
Website: http://www.fortune500music.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/f500music
Style: Rock/Power Pop
Rating: 9.4 out of 10

The band Fortune 500 got their start in 2005 in Washington State. It's members (Matt Lessley- lead vocals/ guitar/harmonica, Andy Brown- bass/ vocals and Scott Storie- drums/vocals) had sharpened their music skills playing in other bands in the area like Killision, The Swerving Birds, Hindu Grass, Bluegreen, and Pavlov Jones.

The band lists some of their musical influences as, Green Day, Weezer, Rufus and The Who. While describing their sound as, "Pete Townshend introducing Green Day to Weezer."

Fly to the Sun is the band's debut release. This release is filled with music that will rock your socks off. The songs are filled with guitar hooks sharp enough to go shark fishing with while the drum beats shake the ground all this is topped off with strong vocals that take command of each song.

This release has so many positives found in it that it's hard to no where to start. This band's music is really tight and when they let it hang out like in the songs, "I Don't Know," "Say It If You Want To," and the one live track found on this release, "Save Your Life" it will make the hairs on your arms stand up.

Several of the songs also have a bit of a retro feel to them. "Drenched" has a 60's pop rock feel along with the band's take on the John Denver song, "Leaving on a Jet Plane" ("Leavin' On a Jetplane") that was made famous when Peter, Paul and Mary released it as a single in 1969.

As I listened to the band's music I kept thinking to myself why haven't I heard of this band before? Music sounding this good needs to be heard.

If anyone is reading this from a major record label you need to get to one of the band's shows soon. For the rest of you put Fortune 500's Fly to the Sun on your music-shopping list.

By CW Ross

Dizmas- Dizmas

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 21:50:28 EST

Artist: Dizmas
Title: Dizmas
Website: http://www.dizmas.com
Style: Rock
Label: Forefront Records
Rating: 8.9 out of 10

The band Dizmas has been around for a few years now getting started way back in 1998. The guys have put out 3 albums (counting this latest), 2 EPs, and were also part of a compilation type release.

I first heard of Dizmas when I reviewed their debut release, On A Search In America, on Credential Recordings in 2005. This time around I get to review the band's debut release on the Forefront Records label.

Their latest release, Dizmas, features five brand new studio recordings from the band along with five classic songs.

This release features a more mature sound from the band. Dizmas' music is guitar driven and filled with steady drumbeats that keeps everything on track. The music found on this release is tight and features well done song arrangements.

The vocal parts really stand out especially the vocal harmonies that are spot on and melt together like soft butter on a nice hot piece of toast.

The song lyrics are intelligently written and filled with the band's signature no compromise faith. The band takes a strong stand for what they believe and that courage has helped to open the door for many people over the years to find faith through the band and their music.

This latest release from Dizmas should cement their place in Christian rock keeping their legion of fans happy while reaching out to some new ones.

By CW Ross

Destroy Everything- Freedom of Speech Means Talk is Cheap

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 18:14:14 EST

Artist: Destroy Everything
Title: Freedom of Speech Means Talk is Cheap
Website: http://www.destroyeverything.com
Style Punk
Label: Tent City Records
Rating: 7 out of 10

Destroy Everything's lineup is, Cheddar Nines (lead vocals), Senor Citizen (guitar), Stiff Mittens (bass), Hanover Fist (guitar), and Cocoa Hole (drums).

In recent times with a lot of pop-punk carnations of bands showing up Destroy Everything is a throwback to the more militant hard-edged punk scene of the late 1970's

The 15 songs found on Freedom of Speech Means Talk is Cheap offers up a message that basically say the U.S.A., especially the government, is F***ed up and the only way to fix it is through a revolution. That people talk a good game but nothing ever changes. The band also really rails hard against organized religion, lobbyist, and scam artist running seminar schemes.

The songs for the most part are, as you would expect, filled with fast guitar and pounding drumbeats. The vocals are loud and aggressive. The songs are fast with all 15 of them only lasting for 35 minutes.

Freedom of Speech Means Talk is Cheap is not for the puritan ears because it's filled with explicit lyrics, mostly involving the F*** word.

I think that with the hard edge that, Freedom of Speech Means Talk is Cheap offers, it will probably only appeal to the real hardcore punk rocker.

The release hits on April 1st, and a nationwide tour will begin shortly afterwards.

By CW Ross

Collin Herring- Past Life Crashing

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:49:37 EST

Artist: Collin Herring
Title: Past Life Crashing
www.myspace.com/collinherring
Style: Roots/Alt. Rock/ Alt. Country
Rating: 8.9 out of 10

Past Life Crashing is the third release from Collin. Since his last release, The Other Side of Kindness, in 2005 Collin's life has been like a whirlwind of turmoil. He had to go into rehab twice along with getting married and divorced.

In the songs found on this release Collin bares his soul for you to see. Even though the song lyrics deal with strife, trouble and painful times they also hold out the hope of pulling yourself out of your bad situations and being triumphant over them.

In his press material Collins says about the songs, " I was just doing what I love to do, having no other choice than to get what is inside of me out."

The songs are filled with Collin's signature roots alt. rock meets Texas country. The release does take a side trip on the last two tracks with more of an experimental side to those songs.

Past Life Crashing took over 2 and a half years and included many song rewrites and production changes. You'll also find multiple artist that helped out including, Ken Coomer (former drummer for Wilco), Kathleen Edwards, Audley Freed (Black Crowes, Cry of Love), and Andrew Duplantis (Meat Puppets). His father Ben Roi Herring who played pedal steel and keyboards along with contributing some vocals also joined Collin.

Collin made sure that the songs weren't overworked though. He said that, "I wanted them to sound frayed enough that people heard them and felt the way I did when I wrote them."

Collin Herring already has a growing reputation as both a singer songwriter and a leader in the alt. rock music world and Past Life Crashing will only help to continue that growth. This release is ripe with soul baring songs that work on so many different levels.

By CW Ross

Chicane Theory- Lose Track of Time

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 21:11:44 EST

Artist: Chicane Theory
Tilte: Lose Track of Time EP
Website: http://www.chicanetheory.com
Style: Alt. Rock
Rating: 7.9 out of 10

This Midwest (Minnesota) based band is, Nicholas Roesler (guitar, vocals), Casey Virock (bass, vocals) and Jeffrey Bahr (drums, vocals).

Lose Track of Time is the 6-song debut EP from Chicane Theory. The release has a bit of a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde personality stylistically with the music found on it.

On tracks 1 and 4 ("Decision," and "Same Old, Same Old") the band goes for a light pop edge. The band shifts musical gears with Track-2 ("Fuzzy"), an all out alt. rocker filled with distortion effects. Track-3 ("Cairo") is a moody alt. rock track.

On Track 5 ("Once") the band goes the soft guitar ballad route. It all ends up with the 6 minutes plus song, "Torch." This song sums up the feel of the entire release with its alternating between mild and forceful moments. Just as it sounds like the songs is about to end it springs back to life with an explosion of musical sounds.

The glue that holds it all together is the lead vocals of Nicholas Roesler. He's also joined with some well-done vocal harmonies from the other band members.

The band's reputation is already growing with their song, "Decision" appearing on two different compilation type releases (Rift Magazine, Broadjam).

This EP offers up a nice profile of the band's sound that is headed in the right direction as long as they refrain from going too far down the musical experimenting road with the band's sound.

By CW Ross

Carmen D'Arcy- A Place Called Grace

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 01:18:20 EST

Artist: Carmen D'Arcy
Title: A Place Called Grace
Style: Contemporary Worship
Website: http://www.carmendarcy.com
Label: Brickstreet Records
Rating: 8.9 out of 10

A Place Called Grace from Carmen D'Arcy is a wonderful collection of 11 songs of Praise & Worship. The first three tracks, "You Are Everything," "Open My Eyes," and "A Place Called Grace," are all upbeat and filled with steady drumbeats in a pop/rock vein not often heard in worship albums.

These aren't set in the church pews sing along songs, they are stand up, clap your hands, and stomp your feet, high-energy numbers.

Track 5, "God You Reign," is the most upbeat number found on the entire release. Its fast tempo is filled with steady drumbeats, lively keyboard parts and really nice guitar work including a solo found at the 2:40 mark of the song.

While the first five tracks will appeal to the younger listener, tracks 6-11 have more of a melodic sound, except for track-9, "You Are My God," which is a piano led toe taper that also features an interesting tempo led by the drum beats found on it.

Track 6, "You're Beautiful," and track 11, "Fade," are piano lead ballads. The rest of the tracks, 7, 8, and 10 fall into the previously mentioned melodic range.

While the music is the vehicle the engine the drives each song is the vocals of Carmen D'Arcy. Carmen's vocals are powerful yet have a compassionate tone to them as she sings straight from her heart in the songs.

The lyrics are all about what a glorious God we serve. His love and grace for us. The sacrifices He went through so that anyone that calls on His name can be forgiven of past sins and born a new.

This release was produced by Bryan Lenox (Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, tobyMac, Sonic Flood, Sixpence None The Richer).

I really liked what A Place Called Grace offers up both musically and spiritually. I'm sure some of these songs will be making their way into worship song rotations in churches around the world soon.

By CW Ross

Borderline Eleven- Pacific Wasteland EP

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 20:47:09 EST

Artist: Borderline Eleven
Title: Pacific Wasteland EP
Website: http://www.borderlineeleven.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/borderlineeleven
Style: Alt. Rock/ Pop Punk
Rating: 7.8 out of 10

This New Hampshire band pulls on musical influences like, Hawk Nelson, Eleventyseven, Switchfoot, New Found Glory, Sum 41, and Relient K to achieve their blend of alt. rock meets pop punk sound.

The band's lineup is, Dan Charpentier (guitar, lead vocals), Luke Mason (guitar, background vocals), Joe Campbell (bass, background vocals), and Andrew Mason (drums, vocals). The guys range in age from their late teens to early 20's.

Pacific Wasteland started out life as a demo for the band but due to growing fan interest the band put it out as an EP for them.

What you'll find on this release is 6 songs that will give you a good feel for the band's sound that features solid guitar work and loud drum beats. The vocal parts are solid but still have a bit of growing left in them.

If your looking for a, 'God this, Jesus that' type release then this isn't the one, it's more built around positive messages. The band's press material states that- Seeing the questionable influences that secular punk and alternative rock bands have with their racy topics and foul lyrics, they wanted to create similar upbeat music but with positive subjects and lyrics.

Track-2, "Welcome to America," at first might seem like a song that's knocking America but after really listening to what it's saying you'll find out that it's really talking about the sad shape we've let this once proud country fall into.

Worrying so much about being politically correct that we've let our moral compasses go awry. And how we need to be pro-active standing up for what we believe.

This release had some of the small flaws like one might expect from a first effort, a muddy guitar sound here and a little squeak to a vocal there but with their Pacific Wasteland EP Borderline Eleven has set up a nice solid starting base for their music.

The band also has a full-length release in the works that should be out by the end of 2008.

By CW Ross

Billy Skinner- Tomorrow's Sun

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 23:14:10 EST

Artist: Billy Skinner
Title: Tomorrow's Sun
Website: http://www.tomorrowssun.com
CDBaby: http://cdbaby.com/cd/billyskinner
Style: Rock
Rating: 8.1 out of 10

Billy Skinner is not your average young-faced musician. Billy's musical journey didn't start until he was 38 years old when he decided to teach himself how to play the guitar.

Billy had spent the first part of his life training and running as a competitive distance runner. He says that he uses the same dedication and ambition from his running days in his music.

Tomorrow's Sun is Billy Skinner's debut release. On it you'll find a collection of 14 original songs, all written by Billy. The songs feature a classic rock sound that also incorporates elements of, Indie rock, Americana, country rock, and folk.

Some of that variety of style comes from Billy's equally wide-variety of artist that he enjoys listening to. Everyone from Frank Sinatra, Jimi Hendrix, and AudioSlave to Megadeth, Little Feet, and Lynyrd Skynard.

The songs found on Tomorrow's Sun come to life with the excellent guitar work; both acoustic and electric, that really takes control of the songs and guide them while steady drum beats play in the background. Several of the songs also feature some really nice saxophone parts that really punch up the spirit of the songs.

Billy isn't afraid to touch on tough subjects in his songs. "Mama's Sons," deals with the tragedy and controversial subject of war, while "Indian Souls," deals with the land grab made by the government of Indian lands. Other more usual subjects like, family, loss and love are also dealt with in the songs.

Lucky for all of us that Billy made the decision to give music a try because Tomorrow's Sun is a well-crafted CD. This feat is even more impressive when you add in the fact that it's also Billy Skinner's debut release.

By CW Ross

Arianna Solare- Book of Us

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:05:00 EST

Artist: Arianna Solare
Title: Book of Us
Website: http://www.myspace.com/ariannasolare
Style: Singer-Songwriter
Record Label: Yatra
Rating: 7.5 out of 10

Arianna Solare has lived a nomadic life traveling widely including a stay in India.

She has always been destined to perform. She was born under the astrological sign Pisces (which I happen to be also). At the early age of 3 she was already studying dance, at 6 she started playing the piano followed by at age 15 the guitar.

Also at age 15 she decided to quit school and leave home. She ended up in Seattle and become part of the large performance scene located there. These days she spends part of her time in the Taos, New Mexico area in her earthen house.

This is Arianna's debut EP and features song's that have a very philosophical vibe to them. They deal with the ironies of life, effects of love on the cosmos, life on the edge, and the power of love.

All those meaty subjects are covered in the first four songs found on the Book of Us. The songs are melodic and Arianna's vocals are smooth and filled with a sense of searching and examining.

The EP ends with track-5, "Are You Coming With Me," a song slightly more up tempo then the others with its more noticeable guitar parts and drum beats The song is filled with little snapshots of Arianna's life up to this point

With her music Arianna show that she's a very talented deep thinker that has a lot to contribute to the performing world in many different ways.

By CW Ross

All Crazy- Sex, Drugs and Hip Rock

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 04:54:04 EST

Artist: All Crazy
Title: Sex, Drugs and Hip Rock
Website: http://www.myspace.com/allcrazyphilly
Style: Rock-Rap
Rating: 5 out of 10

All Crazy is one of those bands that your either going to love them or totally hate their music. Unfortunately I fall in the later group. While I can really appreciate what this multi-racial band out of Philadelphia is trying to do they just go too far with somethings for my taste.

The band's press material says that, "All Crazy has been working for the past few years to bring the spirit of brotherly love back to its native city." I don't see it the band's song lyrics they sound more divisive then pulling together to me. The lyrics are plastered with unnecessary multiple uses of the n and b-words.

Don't get me wrong a few of the tracks push positive messages like trying to take a stand and being a real man, finding the right woman, and trying to lift yourself up. The negatives though where just too many to overcome the few positives that I found.

It's a shame because the band has some really talented artist in it that manages to blend rock and hip-hop styles of music in a cohesive way.

For some reason, someone not in the band named Duby has several speaking tracks on the release that just ground everything to a halt.

Maybe I'm just too old to have caught the hip fun side of the songs but in my mind if you want to pull people together you don't have telephone calls from angry girlfriends cursing you out and then descibe them as a, 'have a laugh track'.

If you're a regular reader of my reviews you know that I try to give each CD that I review a fair shake but this one just missed the mark for me. Who knows it might work for a younger hipper listener?

By CW Ross

Aisha Raine- Never Broken

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 17:19:58 EST

Artist: Aisha Raine
Title: Never Broken
Website: http://www.aisharaine.com
Style: Rock
Rating: 8 out of 10

Aisha Raine's music slogan is, "Black Chicks CAN Rock." That's exactly what she sets out to do on her debut release, Never Broken. She want to prove that just because you're a black woman you don't have to do only, soul, R&B, or Hip-Hop music. That the many colors of the musical rainbow are borderless.

Aisha says that, "With rock, I found a way to truly express the difficulties that I've had to struggle with in life. " She list bands like, Linkin Park, Evanescence, Hoobstank, Breaking Benjamin, Default, Paramore, Mute Math, and Taking Back Sunday as her musical influences.

Instead of a straight ahead rock assault the album offers up a mixture of styles from pop/rock, and alternative to rock mixed with club beats and scratching.

Never Broken has a raw edge to it that drives home the points found in the songs. A lot of the songs deal with feeling like the world is trying to push you down and control you whether it be from other people are someone that your in a relationship with. It talks about the need to be strong in the person you are, take control of your life, and don't let others run you down.

In her press material Aisha had some very insightful things to say, "(Never Broken) represents my soul. There are cracks and scars, but I'm still standing." Aisha continues, "Too many of us go through stressful situations and feel that no one understands. A lot of music out there speaks of love and happiness, but what some need are songs that let us know we are not alone suffering with life's battles, sometimes knowing someone else understands and can relate is just what you need to keep you going."

My favorite tracks on Never Broken are up-tempo rockers, like track-9, "FaithHonestyTrust" that are filled with booming guitar and drum beats.

With Never Broken Aisha has opened a door that hopefully many more artists will walk through!

By CW Ross

Admiral Twin- The Center of the Universe

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 20:13:17 EST

Artist: Admiral Twin
Title: The Center of the Universe
Website: http://www.admiraltwin.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/admiraltwin
Style: Alternative Pop-Rock
Label The Pop Collective
Rating: 8.4 out of 10

Around since 1996 this Oklahoma band's 5th release, The Center of the Universe, is filled with alternative pop-rock music with a tinge of an experimental edge mixture of musical styles.

Having been performing live both across the U.S. and Canada the band has built up a loyal following to their music.

The guys have been influenced by a wide range of bands from, The Beatles, U2, ELO, Queen, Prince, The Rolling Stones, and The Police to Elvis Presley, The Clash, Radiohead, Wilco, The Who, Led Zeppelin, Rush, Pink Floyd and REM.

Being only a trio, Mark Carr (bass, keyboards, noises, vocals), Jarrod Gollihare (drums, percussion, keyboards, vocals), and John Russell (guitar, piano, keyboards, vocals), the band is still able to put out a large sound. The vocal harmonies found in the songs are spot on and melt together like the cheese found in a perfectly done grilled cheese sandwich.

The band's songs are smartly written. Also the band's use of unusual noises intermixed with guitars and an always-present drumbeat driving things ahead makes for a mix that works very well together.

I think with the nice job that the band has done on The Center of the Universe, that Admiral Twin is ready to take the next step up in their musical career.

By CW Ross

Aaron Greer Band- Agents of Change

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:23:55 EST

Artist: Aaron Greer Band
Title: Agents of Change
Website: http://www.aarongreerband.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/aarongreerband
Label: Small Towne Records/ Infinity Distribution
Style: Pop/ Rock/ Worship
Rating: 8.9 out of 10

This band is based in the small Pennsylvania town of Brookville and got its start back in 2005. Agents of Change is the title of the band's debut release and has nationwide distribution thanks to Infinity Music Distribution.

Their lineup is band namesake, Aaron Greer (vocals, guitar), along with C. Scott Gilbert (bass, vocals) and Clarence Grant (drums, percussion).

The band's moniker is. 'Three guys, two guitars, one message.' The message part comes through loud and clear in the songs found on this release.

"We place an emphasis on the theme that we, as God's people, need to be agents in impacting and changing our society in the name, and love, of Jesus," says band member C. Scott Gilbert.

The songs found on Agents of Change have a pop/rock vibe with a worship edge to them.

One of my favorite tracks was number 5, "I Will Follow." The up rocker has a sound that reminded me a lot of the band Delirious? and features some nice guitar work.

The band does a nice job of mixing the up tempo songs with more melodic ones and ballads to create a nice flow to the release.

I've never had the privilege of seeing this band live but from reading their press material it sounds like they put on an exciting show. Several of the band's members have extensive experience in; graphics, web art, and sound design that they use to add a technological side to their multi-media based shows.

The Aaron Greer band is all about ministry with a big part of it being their music- the end result is a wonderful thing.

By CW Ross