The Bishop’s Daredevil Stunt Club “End Over End”
Chicago’s own The Bishop’s Daredevil Stunt Club’s releases the album that will put them on the map. While the influences are very recognizable, the band’s compositions are catchy and original. The wicked riffs on “Get Up Get Up” are comparable to mid-70’s Cheap Trick and the retro-synths keys on “Starpower” bring to mind The Cars. The thick bass progressions and cowbell on “The Henry Norman Hotel” are so addictive, you don’t notice that the tune is nearly five minutes.
“Lifeguard” and “Burndown at Sundown” channel Sloan, and it’s truly old school rock and roll at its best. Next, “Here is Today” has some echoes of Matthew Sweet. And “Christine You’re Mean” is another stunner that rocks hard, in fact almost every song here hits the mark and this album deserves inclusion in my year-end best-of list. I will not waste another word — this is a “must-get” super highly recommended album!
The Bobbleheads “Myths and Fables”
The Bobbleheads are an indie pop-rock band, based in San Francisco, led by John Ashfield (guitar/vocals) and includes Pat Ennis (Bass), Rob Harford ( Guitar) and Rob Jacobs (drums, vocals). They proudly wear the “power pop” moniker and have been rocking since 2003. I really enjoyed the exuberance of Make Yourself Happy and looked forward to more of those bouncy brilliant melodies.
Ashfield’s vocals resemble Steven Page (Barenaked Ladies) a bit on the understated “Like Oxygen” with a wonderful jangling chorus. But after that, the band seems to coast along. “I Really See You” has some nice vocal harmonies and the strong lyrics of “Holding On” showcase the dangers of clinging to a bad relationship and it’s “not always a happy ending.” A strong riff emerges on “Do You?” and it will have you singing along. But these moments aren’t often enough. We still have some highlights, like the shimmering jangle of “Anne Murray Centre” and “Feel This Way.” But unfortunately, the hooks are lacking on many songs. Fans will still enjoy this, but beginners should check out the band’s earlier work first.
