Empty (©2001 Forefront)

1: Alibi 2: Loss for Words 3: Bonded 4: All You Got 5: Spy 6: Talk About Jesus 7: American Tragedy 8: Looking for You 9: Altars 10: Tell Me Why 11: Carried Away 12: Empty 13: Unglued

This wasn't an album I planned on getting. When I heard the DC Talk boys were going to release side projects I thought this would be the one I'd be least likely to get. I was out one day and this was playing on one of those CD demo station things; I put on the headphones, listened to "Alibi", and that was enough to warrant a purchase. This isn't a solo album by Michael Tait, this is a band effort named after Michael's father (that's what he says).

The music is edgy, and has a nice rock sound. At times Michael sounds a bit like a certain Lenny, but mostly he's fronting a solid bunch of guys, and hopefully this project takes off in big way.

"Spy" would be at home on a James Bond soundtrack. It's a great tune.

Reviewed July 31, 2001

Lose This Life (©2003)

1: Lose This Life 2: Numb 3: Electric Avenue 4: Fallen 5: God Can You Hear Me 6: Reconnecting 7: Child 8: Heartache 9: Free Will 10: Wait 11: Holding Out For Grace 25: The Christmas Song

I actually bought this album twice - because the first time the disc was eaten by my CD player. Yeah, I know that's right up there with "The dog ate my homework" but it's true. It got stuck in a player and when I managed to get the drive open, I'd scratched the crap out of the disc.

I've started reviews for this one at least 3 or 4 times - and could never really get my thoughts down. This time is really no different except for one: I posted this one.

Lose this Life is a pretty good album with a couple outstanding pop songs. The lead off track "Lose this Life" is a good start to the album. The biggest surprise on the album though is the remake of "Electronic Avenue" - which was pretty amazing since I hated the original. Most of the songs tend to be mid-tempo power pop songs, with the occasional ballad thrown in to showcase Michael's voice - he's a great pop singer who has range, power, and is able to sing. Tait is a straight ahead pop band with enough edge to keep it from being too bland.

All in all, another really good offering by Tait.

Reviewed July 28, 2008

The Prickly Heat Radio Players (©2003 Stunt)

1: The Right Reverend Dr. Edward Daniel Taylor And "My Left Behind." 2: The Richard Noggin Interview With Arthur Fhardy 3: Learning To Lovingly Hate Your Neighbor 4: A One Yodel Wonder (Noggin) 5: Fruity Yarns 6: Blind Lemon Meringue, Last Of The Old Time Blues Men 7: Yionkling (Noggin) 8: W.W.J.S. (Dr. Taylor) 9: Rabbi Aaron Bergman And The L'chaim Show: Featuring The Plain White Rappers 10: Teeny Tiny Teri Taitor And Her Tots 11: "I'd LIke To Pinch Your Face!" (Noggin) 12: The Powerful Guys Of Golf (Dr. Taylor) 13: Party Hearty With Arthur Fhardy (The Song) 14: Afterglow (Dr. Taylor)

Thirteen years after the first Dr. Edward Daniel Taylor disc, we get The Prickly Heat Radio Players. Unlike the previous effort which featured a great collection of rare songs, this one is all skits. The results are at times very funny, and at other times so bad it's embarrassing. Hats of to Terry and the gang for going boldly where others rightly fear to tread. It really is a piece of hit. The "hit" eating grin Terry sports on the inside cover more or less captures the essense of the album. He really eats the canary on this one.

I wouldn't say this is for "mature" audiences, but it is for those who can take a pretty freaking big helping of wackiness. The ongoing sermon is a long running gag that you have to listen to more than once to catch all of the little nuances. The Powerful Guys of Golf, cracks me up, as does the ongoing interview with Aurthur Fhardy, although it goes on and on. My kids think it's funny for obvious reasons.

I don't know how many of these were made, or how long it will be available to the general public before it disappears and becomes a monster collectable on e-bay.

Terry is a very serious songwriter, and it's nice to see that beneath his mysterious aura, is a man who knows what funny is. Who knows, maybe one day the two of us will hook up over a coffee and donut and trade fart stories. Hey, you never know.

Reviewed August 17, 2003

Squint (©1993 Warner Alliance)

1: Lament of Desmond R. G. Underwood-Fredrick IV 2: Bannerman 3: Smug 4: Jesus is for Losers 5: The Finish Line 6: The Moshing Floor 7: Easy Listening 8: Curses 9: Sock Heaven 10: Cash Cow (A Rock Opera in Three Small Acts)

This was a disappointment. I've been a Taylor fan since his wired skinny tie and the Clones album. So when he released his first album a few years after Chagall Guevara disbanded, I snapped it up, not knowing what to expect. Would this be the Steve of old, or would it continue down the trail blazed by his work with Chagall Guevara? It's a bit of both, and the results are wildly uneven. Steve would probably disagree, but I think he hit his peak in 85 and from there more or less slid to the sidelines in terms of importance to the genre.

Steve's last hurrah before sailing off to be a record executive guy, he squirted out Squint. An album that has flashes of brilliance, with an edge his earlier only work hinted at. Sadly for me the results had little impact, and with the exception of "Jesus Is For Losers", possibly the best song he's written, this album doesn't warrant many trips down from the shelf.

Having dismissed Squint, one cannot ignore the impact this guy had on Christian music. There was little in the way fun, creative, and biting music in the early 80's (let alone anything that sounded halfway decent). Rock and roll was still a one way ticket to hell, and dancing got you an express ticket (anyone remember Footloose? Anyone admit to it?). He along with a small handful of artists opened the door for what we take for granted today.

Reviewed August 10, 2001

Raoul and the Kings of Spain (©1995 Epic)

1: Raoul and the Kings of Spain 2: Falling Down 3: Secrets 4: God's Mistake 5: Sketches of Pain 6: Los Reyes Católicos 7: Sorry 8: Humdrum and Humble 9: I Choose You 10: Don't Drink the Water 11: Me and My Big Ideas 12: Los Reyes Católicos (reprise)

Oddly enough it's only with the last couple of albums that I've really become a fan.  Too bad people stopped paying attention to these guys.  This is a remarkable work.  Full of mature songs, good hooks, and strong emotional vocals that make this a great record.  There are a number of standout songs on this record, the title song, "Falling Down", "Secrets", and the haunting melody of "I Choose You".

Temple Yard (©1999 Gotee Records)

1: Lion of Judah 2: Runnin' 3: Wicked Stone 4: Tell Me 5: Freedom in Captivity 6: By Your Side 7: Quiet Place 8: Enter All Junglist 9: Speak The Truth 10: Give It Away 11: Lost Without You 12: Not Too Late 13: Speak the Truth (Rocker's Alley Remix)

The following case was presented November 6, 2004 at banophernalia.com
Dick Wolf was not harmed nor consulted during the writing of this review:

The defense lawyer looking tired stood and addressed the judge "Your honour, we request that the reviewer be treated as a hostile witness."

"Request denied."

"But your honour, this reviewer has no sense of funk. He still listens to 80's metal, and has no clue as to what is cool."

"Denied. By the way counselor, I don't think it's cool to say cool anymore." (Much thumping of the gavel as the defense pouts and retreats behind the desk)

The bailiff stands and points at me, and then states, "The people call Jevon the Tall, to speak on the matter of the Temple Yard versus a poke in the ear with a sharp stick."

I get up and straighten my tie, then smooth the creases on my pants with my hands as I walk to the witness box. I take the stand raising my left hand (I'm left handed).

"Do you swear ... "

"Uh, sometimes, when I'm mad, or excited, or just talking out loud."

The bailiff rolls his eyes, and pats his side arm. "I wasn't finished ... (sorry I mutter looking at my shoes) Do you swear to tell the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help you God."

"I do."

The defense lawyer leans forward and looks right at me "Do you like reggae?"

"Not particularly, but I used to have a Bob Marley album. I think it was called Kaya or something - it was a long time ago. It was pretty cool."

"So that qualifies you as an expert in reggae?" The defense lawyer smiled at me, revealing two rows of teeth.

"No it doesn't I reply. But I bought my copy of Temple Yard, so I figure I'm entitled to an opinion."

"And, just what is your much vaunted opinion?" The defense turns and grins at the jury.

"It's okay, but nothing special. In fact it's kind of boring."

"What about the clever mixing of reggae, pop, jazz elements? What do you know? You still listen to Def Leppard. I'll bet you didn't like Informer by Snow either. Thank you very much for you valuable and informed opinion. The defense rests your honour."

Taken to trial Fall 2004

Laugh For A Million Years (©2008)

1: Brand New Day 2: Laugh For A Million Years 3: Outrun The Wind 4: Open Windows 5: Jump On It 6: Someplace Green 7: If Jesus Was Like Me 8: Yearning To Live 9: The Gift Of Mercy 10: Rivers Of Hope 11: Forgiveness

Once upon a time (many years ago) I stumbled upon Pat Terry's work. I think I first heard his name mentioned in a magazine interview with the late Mark Heard who was talking about some of his production work and an album called Humanity Gangsters. I loved the title, but would never find the album (still haven't). I would however find Pat's next album Film at Eleven, also produced by Mark Heard, and finally The Silence which was followed by (wait for it) silence (literally) ... decades of it. The next time I would hear anything by Mister Terry (how's that for a sign of respect?) would be on Mark Heard's tribute album when Pat contributed his interpretation of "Mercy of the Flame".

One can't talk about the new Pat Terry without paying homage to the old Pat Terry. Film at Eleven was an album that changed me. It was a strange breed of music. Lyrically the songs were faithfilled and challenging and not simply 3 minute songs full of hollow clichés. Pat's voice packed an emotional punch I've not come across very often. While The Silence never resonated with me in the same way, there were some brilliant moments: "Man About Town" remains to this day one of the greatest pop songs I have ever heard. Just thinking about it gives me chills. Who knows if Pat's 80's trilogy will ever see the light of day on CD, or be available in the digital domain. I hope so. Myrrh holds the keys and I remember when David Edwards was trying to re-issue his albums they were gracious - so who knows ... one day a little box set may actually come to pass.

Until that day, I will enjoy Pat's Laugh for a Million Years. I have to say it has been a long long time since I was nervous about getting a new release from an old favourite, especially one who I haven't heard for years. The album opens with "Brand New Day" and I got that familiar chill. Pat was back. Sure it's a pretty simple song, replete with the standard cowboy chord progressions, but for me it was the return of an old friend. I still want to think of Pat as having no musical genre, but the reality is this is pretty much a country record, but it's a country record that sounds like Pat Terry.

The dilemma for some will be who is this album for? The reality is, other than Pat's faithful fans, there was no driving commercial reason to spend time and money putting this out. If it was purely for artistic reasons Pat could just as easily recorded the songs and then put them in a box. I'm not complaining. My wife who can be a truly harsh critic asked me what was so special about this stuff, it sounded like stuff by John Denver. I shushed her (never a good idea, but we have a comfy couch so I take the risk now and again) and told her she should stick with Abba and leave Pat alone.

Welcome back Mister Terry, please don't be a stranger. As to laughing for a million years that's a long time, and it may not be healthy to laugh that much. Remember that Star Trek episode where Spock just about laughed himself to death? That was only for a few minutes let alone a year. A million of them would really do the old guy in.

Anyway, this wasn't really a review so much as an open letter from a fan.

Reviewed February 27, 2009

One World (©1998 GTSP Records)

the songs: Sonata Di Roma / Canta Domine / Emerald Bay / Valley Of Dreams / Flamenco Legato / Who Am I? / Heart Of The Sunrise / Gloriette / Paino In G Major / St. Agnes' Treasure / Forever More (I'll Be The One) / Siberian Allegretto / One World

We all have our weaknesses. I wish I knew what the appeal was to this guy's music - it falls in between insipid, and banal. I also have a lot of John Tesh records in my collection. This one is a little different than some of his other releases, but still has that "Tesh" sound. Taking a little of this and a little of that from various international musical styles the result is a little musical journey around the world. If you're not a Tesh fan, you won't like this one either.

PS Mister Tesh sir, what the heck is a James Ingram song doing on your album? No offense but it really spewed. Remember the Sesame Street game "One of these things?"

Mind Bomb (©1989 Epic)

The Songs: Good Morning Beautiful / Armageddon Days Are Here (Again) / The Violence Of Truth / Kingdom Of Rain / The Beat(en) Generation / August & September / Gravitate To Me / Beyond Love

Matt Johnson steps out from his one man band and brings in some outside musicians. Johnny Marr supplies guitar for most of the songs. "Kingdom Of Rain" features Sinead O’Connor on vocals. This is a very gritty album and one that can be a little depressing. Matt is a very good writer, and some of the songs are challenging. My favourite lyric comes from "Armageddon Days" “If the real Jesus Christ were to stand up today, He’d be gunned down cold by the C.I.A. Oh, the lights that now burn brightest behind stained glass, will cast the darkest shadows upon the human heart.” As Dark as the lyrics are the music is oddly infectious at times. I find myself tapping my foot to happy music with very dark subjects.

Very cool.

Reviewed March 15, 2002

Jailbreak (©1976)

1. Jailbreak 2. Angel From the Coast 3. Running Back 4. Romeo and the Girl 5. Warriors 6. Boys Are Back in Town 7. Fight or Fall 8. Cowboy Song 9. Emerald

As a kid this was one of those albums that was totally cool: It had a cover straight from the Marvel universe, and the title track and "The Boys Are Back in Town" were wicked. "Jailbreak" was one of the first riffs I was able to play on the guitar ("Smoke on the Water" would come later). I only ever owned a couple of albums by Thin Lizzy, the other being Johnny the Fox - both of which I haven't heard in decades.

I hadn't thought about Thin Lizzy in a long time and when I found Jailbreak I couldn't resist picking it up. Not having heard it in ages I really only remembered the two hits. I was going to have to listen with new ears - and you know what? I was totally surprised at how well this has held up considering it's over 30 years old.

Of course the songs I still get a kick out of are the ones that gave me my musical chubbies when I was a teenager. What surpised me a little was that the rest of the album was much better than I remembered. When I was a kid, one great song was all it took to make me happy. The fact that this album had two classics on it, was a bonus. Listening to it now, I'm finding that I actually short changed the album in favour of the hits.

So I get to make up for a bit of lost time and get to actually enjoy an album, not just a couple of killer songs.

Reviewed November 25, 2007

Johnny the Fox (©1976)

1. Johnny 2. Rocky 3. Borderline 4. Don't Believe A Word 5. Fools Gold 6. Johnny The Fox Meets Jimmy The Weed 7. Old Flame 8. Massacre 9. Sweet Marie 10. Boogie Woogie Dance

There once was a time when an artist would release more than an album a year. Coming off the success of Jailbreak Thin Lizzy released Johnny the Fox. This was the first album I ever bought by the band, and I must have played side A to death. The second side - not so much.

I'm not sure what it is about Thin Lizzy, but they're one of those bands that never seems to come up when talking about the great rock bands from the 70's. I'll admit that I've always thought they were cool, and I like a few songs but that was about it. Johnny the Fox never did much to further my opinion of the band. Sure the first side was killer, but the second half still doesn't work for me, although "Massacre" and the album's closer "Boogie Woogie Dance" are pretty good. Considering the album is over thirty years old it's better than I remember it.

I picked this up for the first five songs - and they're excellent, and along the way have started to soften my opinion on the second side (I know, a CD doesn't have a second side - I'm having a seniors moment, but me some slack) . Makes you wonder what could have been with Thin Lizzy if they'd picked the best songs from Jailbreak and Johnny the Fox and released a truly killer album?

We'll never know.

Reviewed January 21, 2008

Drivetrain (©2004)

1. Something I Need 2. Hurts Like Love 3. Haley's Got a Harley 4. Jam On 5. Make Some Sense of It 6. Quick Fix 7. The Squeeze 8. The Play 9. Bad Looks Good on You 10. Trooper with an Attitude 11. Hiding from Yourself 12. Sheriff's County Line

It’s been a long long time since I’ve picked up anything by .38 Special. Back in their heyday their brand of southern fried rock touched a chord, and although I gave up on the band after their disastrous Rock and Roll Strategy, (although I did like "Second Chance") I never stopped liking the band.

So when I found a copy of Drivetrain, I figured I’d take a chance – the band has changed a bit over the years, but the two Dons are still present in vocalists Donnie Van Vant and Don Barnes. So as you’d expect there are times when you can hear elements of the old magic, but over the dozen beer soaked tracks there's just enough crunch and growl to make this an enjoyable, but ultimately forgettable album.

I’m not sure this is the return many fans, me included was hoping for. There’s nothing really wrong with Drivetrain, it’s just a little clunky. Hopefully with a little tune up the band will be firing on all cylinders.

Reviewed April 16, 2008

Mimes Of The Old West (©1998 Organic)

1: Hangar 84 2: We're Getting Nowhere (Fast) 3: The Missing Link 4: Who's Stopping You 5: Mimes Of The Old West 6: A Million Years 7: I Saw The Light 8: Seafoam Green 9: I Don't Want To Know 10: Sandee 11: The Wailing Wall 12: I've Got Half A Mind 13: Goodbye 51: (Are You Ready For That) Great Atomic Power

This was a very cool surprise. Take the silliness of the Barenaked Ladies, add in the guitar weirdness of Huevos Rancheros, mix in some real honest to goodness rock sensibility and you have This Train. Once I got this baby home and started reading the credits I recognized Mark Robertson's name. He was with Rich Mullins, and a member of the Ragamuffin band. Pretty nifty.

The title track is a killer and takes the cow punk style to the limit, it's my favourite track so far. Which is not to say that the rest are stinkers. They're all pretty solid. These boys have the art of self deprecation down to an art. Doesn't hurt that these boys can sure play.

One day I'll be made out of money and will be able to buy more stuff new, rather than diving the bargain bins and being too late to support a great band when they need it most. Until that day I'll comfort myself knowing I have some pretty freakin' good music in my collection.

Reviewed August 9, 2003

PS I like extra hidden tracks as much as the next guy, but really guys did you have to add fill tracks from 14 - 50, and then add more after the "hidden" track?

The Emperor's New Band (©1999 Organic)

1: I Wanna Be Your Man 2: We'll Leave The Light On 3: Screendoor 4: She's A Rocker 5: Emperor's New Band 6: Jazz 7: Technology 8: Magic Bean 9: The Way It Sounds 10: No, Not One 25: Monstertruck 2000 26: We'll Leave The Light On (Demo/Backporch Version)

Ah, the kick arse sounds of a killer rockabilly band. Jordan Richter is a great twanger (really really great), of course not to overlook Mark Robertson on vocals and bass and the driving beat of Cobra Joe. You gotta love a tight three piece. The tunes are punchy and full of energy. These guys are a riot. Even Phil Keaggy shows off his chops on We’ll Leave the Light On which is killer baby (how many sentence fragments can I write in one little review?)

This album is a blast baby! Treat tracks include: I Wanna Be Your Man, We’ll Leave the Light On, She’s a Rocket, Magic Bean, and of course the trailer park special Monster Truck.

I love this stuff.

Reviewed May 3, 2005

Looking Back (©1993 Anthem)

the songs: Painted Ladies / Long Long Way / Captured In Your Dreams / Liar / Right Before Your Eyes / Goodnight Mrs. Calabash / Coming Home / I Really Love You / Pilot / I Still Want To Hold You / Time Is The Keeper / Hold On / The Runner / Stringin' A Line / Riders On Dark Horses / Harmony / As The Days Go By / Touch Me

This is a brilliant collection of some of the best pop songs ever written. From his early days up to selections from his 1985 release Add Water the songs are thoughtful, witty, and at times hopelessly sappy. The only complaint I have is the lack of songs from Riders On Dark Horses. I guess you can't have everything, but at 74 minutes the CD is pretty full.

Bands like America, Chicago, Manfred Mann, and Santana have had great success with his songs. Sadly despite a string of wonderful albums in the 70's and 80's Ian never really stormed the world.

My hat goes off to Anthem for releasing this anthology, but what I'd really like to see his catalog reissued - which isn't likely to happen anytime soon.

Dear Jevon: Thank you for your e-mail regarding Ian Thomas' back catalog. Currently, there are no plans to release any of his back catalog on CD. Thank you for your interest and support of Ian Thomas.
Yours truly, Anthem Records

Ack, bummer.

Dale Thompson (©1995)

1: Bombay Taxi Horn 2: The Mortal 3: Thought I Met The Devil 4: Wringing His Hands 5: Blackout 6: If God Is Dead 7: St Vitas Dance 8: Three Rusty Nails 9: I Could 10: Knob Creek Road 11: Ed's Barber Pole 12: Back The Road

This is a pretty creative album, and I gotta give Dale full marks for putting himself out there, and creating music totally different than Bride. But creative doesn’t mean enjoyable. Dale’s voice is like a combination of rubbing alcohol, sandpaper, and toenail clippings. In short he sounds a lot like Tom Waits with a cold. Now, if you’re a Waits fan, and like story songs, you'll probably find this to be a really cool album. Sadly, I’m terribly superficial and I like to listen to music, and most of this didn’t click for me at all.

I get the sense that Dale was trying his hand at being a blues man – hey this is a solo album, and like I said before, I’ll give him credit for trying something outside of the box.

Still the bottom line was I didn’t like this one all that much.

Reviewed April 5, 3005

Come Again (©2004 604Records)

1: Falling To Pieces 2: Come Again 3: So Far So Good 4: The Going Rate (My Fix) 5: Keep A Good Man Down 6: Easy Comes 7: Beautiful 8: Bright Side 9: Clever 10: Found Another Way 11: All Comes Out In The Wash 12: The Lies That I Believe

Following the crash of Big Wreck (oh come on, allow me some poetic license) front man Ian Thornley more or less disappeared from my musical radar for a couple years. I saw this and was curious about what the big crooner was up to. Oddly enough he's landed on Chad Kroeger's IV-O-IV label, (the area code in Vancouver, ar ar) which is a pretty good fit, considering how big the Big Wreck sound was, it was just a little early - because a few years later it was everywhere. Who knows, maybe Chad is paying homage to Ian by signing his band.

The sound on Come Again has a lot of "heard it before", (think Soundgarden and Nickelback) but I don't want to just be an ass and write Ian off - hardly fair, he's been around now and he's had some success. This album may not blow things wide open for him which is par for the course considering how saturated the airwaves are with similar stuff (but not as good). What Thornley has going for it is an amazing singer and guitar player in Ian Thornley (an accident the band is named after him?), he may not blow a million notes or shred the frets, but his playing is layered and intricate to the point of being scary. He's not just dropping a low E and pretending to be a guitar player like Ben Moody.

Now it is noisy at times, but hey it's rock and roll kiddies. There aren't any weak songs(other than the irritating overly repetative riff on Falling to Pieces) either which is a nifty trick if you can pull it off (which he pretty much does). The whole album is consistently kicks ass (except for the afore mentioned "the record's stuff bit). I will single out The Going Rate (My Fix) as the show stopper on Come Again. What a killer song. Best song from any artist I've heard in a long long time.

So here's hoping there's room for one more out there. Come Again?

Reviewed October 5, 2004

Half a Boy, Half A Man (©1999 CMC International)

1: I Don't Trust Nobody 2: Double Shot 3: 99 Days In Jail 4: Half A Boy, Half A Man 5: As Long As I Have You 6: B.I.G.T.I.M.E. 7: Be Bop Grandma 8: Nothing New 9: Just Passin' Thru 10: Hellbound Train 11: Not Tonight

George Thorogood is a dependable work horse. You know that you're going to get a solid collection of standards with the occasional new bit thrown in. There'll be George's gruff growl, and the scratch of his slide on his trusty old Gibson.

I can't say that George is sleeping at the switch here, but there's a sense of tiredness to this album. This isn't to say that this is a boring album, it's just that it's more from the same old bag of tricks. However, there are a enough great moments to put this collection over the hump: "Be Bop Grandma", "Hellbound Train" and George's two lone compositions on the album - "Just Passin' Thru" and "Not Tonight (I Have a Heartache)" are vintage Destroyers.

Which begs the question - Why doesn't George record more of his own boogie woogie smokers, rather than digging out the old Willie Dixon and Chuck Berry tunes?

At the end of the day it doesn't matter does it, 'cause some things never change.

Reviewed September 23, 2004

Fall on Your World (©1993 Glasshouse / Word)

1: Say Hello 2: Tangerine Leaves 3: Noose of Trust 4: Way Too Much 5: Jordan 6: Oh Well 7: Pain of the Next 8: Blow Out the Candle 9: Where is the Fire? 10: For the Honesty 11: Wake-Up Call 12: Sounds Like Heaven

It has been a while since I’d listened to The Throes, and I have to admit that Fall on Your World didn’t do anything for me at all the first time through. Nor the second, nor the third. In fact after repeated spins it just didn’t resonate with me. This is weird, because I’m usually able to find something positive to say about just about anything. Perhaps I’ve just become disillusioned with music in general over the last year or so, and am less inclined to spend time trying to like something just because I have it in my collection.

There should have been a silver lining in here somewhere too. This was produced by The Choir’s Steve Hindalong, and Derri Daugherty, a couple of guys who know a thing or three about a decent pop song. There are times, when the psychedelic tones and the swirling noise almost raise the music to something worth paying attention to, but then collapses under the weight of it’s own pretentiousness.

I try not to crap on things too often, but every so often you just have to put one in the bowl and take shots at it.

Reviewed November 13, 2007

Ameroafriasiana (©1996 Brainstorm)

Tracks: Understanding / Slip / Grieve / Fortune / Alive / Hid / Satiable / Don't / Fertile / Ameroafriasiana

The Throes are another one of a seemingly endless parade of pop groups who have been playing on my CD player lately. Over the last couple of months I've managed to snag a lot of stuff on sale, and The Throes were one of those bands who I'd heard good things about, but had never heard. So as I was rummaging through the discount bin the other day I stumbled on Ameroafrianasiana and figured for the couple of bucks it was worth a try.

This is a solid album with good performances and pretty good tunes. I like it, and will probably play this once in a while. It does suffer from sounding like a lot of what is out there already, but heck there are only so many chords to choose from. A band that cites The Choir, 77's and members of The Lifesavers and Daniel Amos can't be all bad - and they aren't.

Possibly if I hadn't been deluged with so much "new" stuff lately this wouldn't have been buried in the pile. Bottom line: It didn't blow me away - but it's not like dragging fingernails down a chalkboard either.

PS The title song features what is quite possibly the longest reverberated ending in pop music.

Reviewed November 12, 2002

Sticks & Stones and Broken Bones (©1991 Geffen)

Tracks: Tongue-Tied River / Boys Are Bustin' Bricks / One Last Wish / Something 'Bout The Struggle / Hear Your Brother Calling / War Is Release / Standing On The Ledge / American Mess / Happy / Never Enough / Colorblind / Sweet Misery

There are times when $1.88 can buy you an unexpected surprise. I was stuck at Wal-Mart the other day, and while I was wandering around I came across a big bin of CDs just waiting for some guy with too much time on his hands. I ended up with a handful of discs I'd never heard, but was willing to take a chance on.

The Toll looked like one of those ubiquitous hair metal bands from the late 80's early 90's and it was on Geffen which for the most part had a pretty good stable of artists. The first thing I noticed was these guys were just a good old fashioned rock and roll band. Very cool. The singer is good, but he's not one of those 5 octave tweeter nut cracker screamers. The guitar work is solid, but not a shred-fest. This is probably one reason it sounds good today. It's not as dated as a lot of the "rock" from that time.

Sure, most of the songs are little above generic rock fodder, but there is a killer tune in One Last Wish. It sounds really familiar, and chances are it got some radio play - I just can't remember. Either way it's a standout track. There's not much info on the band out there, and I guess this was their only album. Too bad I was a decade late in picking this up.

Reviewed July 18, 2002

Loc-ed After Dark (©1989 Delicious Vinyl)

1: On Fire (Remix) 2: Wild Thing 3: Loc'ed After Dark 4: I Got It Goin' On 5: Cutting Rhythms 6: Funky Cold Medina 7: Next Episode 8: Cheeba Cheeba 9: Don't Get Close 10: Loc'in On The Shaw 11: The Homies

I guess like every other middleclass white kid in the 80’s rap was one of those things that was the new cool. Although other than the occasional rap song, I wasn’t what you would call a hardcore homie. Tone-loc’s monster hits “Wild Thing” and “Funky Cold Medina” are as wicked today as they were over 15 years ago. The only other song that approaches the heights of his big hits is the lead off track “I’m on Fire.” However, taken as a whole the album doesn’t stand up as well.

The prude in me doesn’t see the necessity for the f-bombs, but that’s just me – and frankly doesn’t enhance or detract from the tunes, just my ability to play this album while the kids are in the room.

But I’ll give credit where credit is due – Tone’s raspy husky delivery was very cool, and he pulled off a couple of wickedly great songs. Too bad the rest of the album just didn’t measure up.

Reviewed April 12, 2006

Cool Hand Loc (©1991 Delicious Vinyl)

1: Funky Westside 2: Pimp Without A Caddy 3: I Adore You 4: All Through The Night 5: Fatal Attraction 6: I Joke But I Don't Play 7: Freaky Behavior 8: Mean Green 9: Why 10: Hip Hop It Is Kinda Different 11: Funky Westside Reprise

Um, I'm more than a little out of element on this one. So why take the time to review it if you don't know anything about rap, hip hop, or soul music? Because I have a copy, and my wallet entitled me to one free opinion.

There are no flashes of brilliance on Tone's follow up effort. The best thing about the album it the title. Tone tries pretty hard, and there are some interesting grooves here and there but nothing that grabbed me and made me want to pay attention. "Fatal Attraction" is a lot of fun, but it just can't carry the entire album. Which is too bad because he has a distinctive voice that has cool written all over it. Sadly the rest of the tracks are a weird collection of gangsta hip hop soul that just doesn't work at all for me. Oh well, what do you expect from a nerdy white guy who can't dance.

On the plus side, I'm pretty sure I wasn't alone of thinking this one wasn't that great.

Reviewed April 29, 2006

Notes from the lost civilization (©1988 What? / A&M)

1: Without Love 2: Children's Crusade 3: Stay 4: City Life 5: You Were There 6: The Executioner's Song 7: I Can't Stand It 8: What Women Want 9: I Can't Stop 10: Where Is That Place?

I've heard people going on about Tonio K. for a couple of years, so I figured at some point I'd have to see what all the fuss was about.

Released in 1988 on What? A&M's fledgling imprint Tonio gathered up a host of great musicians (Alex Acuna, Jim Keltner, Tim Pierce, Charlie Sexton, T Bone Burnett to name a few) and proceded to put out an album that most of you have never heard of. I've heard of it, but only recently. There's a lot here to like. Musically it's holding up pretty well, except for a couple pieces that are showing some wear around the edges. Stylistically it's a nice mix of David Baerwald meets Stan Ridgway with a dash of T Bone Burnett and Bruce Springsteen added for flavour. If that doesn't make any sense this album reminds me quite a bit of Mark Heard's Mosaics.

It's been playing for a few days straight around the house, and it's got a certain groove. Right now I really like "Children's Crusade", and "The Executioner's Song". "Without Love" is pretty good too.

I don't think this will ever be a favourite of mine, but if I stumble upon more of his music I'll snap it up.

Reviewed April 10, 2004

The Iron Man (Atlantic 1989)

the songs: I Won't Run Anymore / Over The Top / Man Machines / Dig / A Friend Is A Friend / I Eat Heavy Metal / All Shall Be Well / Was There Life / Fast Food / A Fool Says... / Fire / New Life / Reprise

I got this CD years ago, and recently I put it on again, and I kept listening to it for a couple of weeks. I'd forgotten how good this an album this is. The John Lee Hooker song "I Eat Heavy Metal" is worth buying the CD for.

Based on The Iron Man by Ted Hughes, Pete goes on to re-tell in his own way. With the exception of the highly annoying song Fast Food, I really like this album.

If you've seen The Iron Giant, imagine how much better it would have been to have had the John Lee Hooker tune in there. One can only imagine . . .

Road Apples (©1991 MCA)

1: Little Bones 2: Twist My Arm 3: Cordelia 4: The Luxury 5: Born In The Water 6: Long Time Running 7: Bring It All Back 8: Three Pistols 9: Fight 10: On The Verge 11: Fiddlers Green 12: The Last Of The Unplucked Gems

This is one wicked album. The Tragically Hip although never at the top of my favourite bands, are one hell of a band. They’re noisy, rough, and when things click, the results are magical. Put simply they’re the best bar band in the world.

Released in 1991, it’s hard to imagine than more than a decade has passed since the release of Road Apples (I love this title, cracks me up every time I see it). I have no idea why these guys never really caught on in a big way outside of Canada. The Hip are like royalty on their home turf. Heck when the queen came to visit guess which band got to play for her?

There are a bunch of classics on this one, from "Little Bones", "Twist My Arm", and one of my all time favourites "Three Pistols".

Some would argue that this was one of their last great albums. I don’t know about that, as I don’t have all of their stuff, but what I do have I really enjoy.

Reviewed May 21, 2003

Best of the Tubes (1981 - 1987) (©1981 Cema)

the songs: Talk To Ya Later / Sushi Girl / Amnesia / Attack of the Fifty Foot Woman / Let's Make Some Noise / She's A Beauty / The Monkey Time / Tip of My Tongue / Sports Fans

Fee Waybill has one of the best voices in rock and roll. Over the years The Tubes managed to make some good music; however, this CD doesn't capture the "Best Of" the band. "Talk To Ya Later", and "She's A Beauty" (arguably their best songs ever) are here, but this album is little more than a repackaged version of The Completion Backward Principle with other odds and ends thrown in. The CD is a good introduction to a fun and quirky pop band, but this is not the best of the Tubes, it's a pretty good sampling of the Tubes.

Reviewed June 16, 2000

20/20 - Look Out! (©1995 Oglio)

20/20: The Sky Is Falling 7/79 / Yellow Pills / Cheri / Out Of This Time / Tell Me Why (Can't Understand You) / Tonight We Fly / Remember The Lightning / She's An Obsession / Leaving Your World Behind / Backyard Guys / Jet Lag / Action Now

Look Out!: Nuclear Boy / Out Of My Head / Strange Side Of Love / Alien / A Girl Like You / Life In The U.S.A./ The Night I Heard A Scream / Beat City / Mobile Unit 245 / American Dream

The other day I was browsing through my local record store, and low and behold this blast from the past jumped out at me. Although twenty years have past since their debut album, I found myself transported back in time, to when new wave music was actually new. Rock and roll was having new life breathed into it after a few years where there was little or no pulse left in the beast. Their first two albums are on this one CD. I'm pleasantly surprised at how well the production holds up. Songs like "Yellow Pills", and "Nuclear Boy" sound fresh and inspired. Sadly the band didn't garner the success it rightly deserved and they more or less just faded back into obscurity. Although over the last couple of years I understand they have reformed and have released a couple of albums.

If you're curious about the roots of the new stripped down sound that a lot of bands in the 90's have adopted look back and you'll hear the influence of bands like 20/20.

Reviewed August 1999

A Twisted Christmas (©2006)

1. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas 2. Oh Come All Ye Faithful 3. White Christmas 4. I'll Be Home for Christmas - Lita Ford, Twisted Sister 5. Silver Bells 6. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus 7. Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow 8. Deck the Halls 9. Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) 10. Heavy Metal Christmas (The Twelve Days of Christmas)

Some things are not supposed to go together: Milk and lemons, vinegar and apple sauce, Sonny and Cher - and before I heard it I would have placed Twisted Sister and Christmas songs in that list. You know what? It works better than you'd expect. In fact it's darned good fun, and last year it was one of those albums that kept making appearances on the big stereo.

Twisted Sister always got the short end of the credibility stick, and their cartoonish videos didn't help. They were metal-lite, and although they sold millions during their heyday, I never took them seriously. So twenty years later the guys are having the last laugh. The guys place this over the top, and it's a hoot. "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" spoofs their hit "We're Not Gonna Take It" and it fits so well it makes you wonder which one came first. The guys still have what it takes to piss off the old folks, I played this song at a Christmas dance, and an old guy came up to me, and said, "That's pretty loud, can you turn it down?"

The guys know they'll never be taken seriously, so they play to their strength which is their sense of humour and show that they don't care. If you need proof, their "Heavy Metal Christmas" is so horrible it's great. It makes Bob & Doug's version seem like a masterpiece. What makes this album so much fun is that despite turning the tunes inside out, they remain faithful to the original lyrics.

Having heard these guys have so much fun with Christmas Carols has actually caused me to go back and do something I thought I'd never do ... listen to their old stuff.

So to Dee and the rest of the band, thanks for putting a big grin on my face.

Reviewed December 19, 2008