Log Flume and Belfast

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“Log

Log Flume “Go Where The Money Goes”

Log Flume opens ‘Go Where The Money Goes’ with the youthful energy of “Dynamic” and “Far From You,” a rush of buzzing guitars, handclaps, and irresistible melody. It grabs your attention immediately, but the album’s biggest strength reveals itself over time. As the songs unfold, the band settles into a more confident, mature sound without sacrificing the urgency that made them so appealing in the first place.

“Necessary Evil” brings to mind the melodic warmth of Teenage Fanclub, while “Got This Feeling” sparkles with jangling guitars and perfectly placed female backing vocals. “Up By 9 O’Clock” stands out as one of the album’s highlights, built around an infectious riff and a chorus that sticks after the first listen. The title track, “Go Where The Money Goes,” rides a bright, ringing guitar sound that perfectly complements its hook. The jangling “Get The Picture” is another standout, packed with hooks and rewarding repeat listens, while “Every Single Day” closes things on a more reflective note, pairing a moody lyric about songwriting that recalls classic Weezer. Log Flume has found an impressive balance between youthful intensity and seasoned songwriting, and enough variety to reward astute listeners. Highly recommended.

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Belfast

Belfast “Belfast”

Inspired by the late 1970s DIY noise pop celebrated on the Powerpearls compilations, Belfast delivers a scrappy, hook-filled debut that’s easy to embrace. The project is the work of Joe Quine (Pist Idiots) who wrote and recorded these songs in his Sydney bedroom, giving the album an authentic, homemade spirit. The songs reflect life’s ups and downs, and the opener “Forms From My Dreams” makes the strongest first impression, pairing infectious punk attitude with buzzing guitar riffs that immediately grab your attention. “Spoonful of Your Love” follows with rough-hewn percussion and a ragged melody that feels effortlessly charming.

There are echoes of The Clash, The Saints, and The Velvet Underground throughout, with sharp hooks hiding beneath the distorted guitars, gruff vocals, and loose production. The middle of the album becomes a little repetitive, but the momentum returns with the urgent “Kissing On The Mezzanine” and the layered vocal textures of “You Are Tonight.” This isn’t a polished record, and it isn’t trying to be. Its rough edges are part of the appeal. If you appreciate raw, heartfelt punk pop then this is for you.

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Ben Auld and Badfinger’s Pete Ham is covered again

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Ben Auld “Loserdom”

Ben Auld, out of Norwich UK is has a neat little album here. Ben works alongside guitarist Conor Etteridge, drummer Duncan Baker, and bassist George Witty. The “Opening” track is an ADD medley of different melodies and time signatures, all sounding like a short mix tape that skips around. Obvious influences are Weezer, Teenage Fanclub, and Tony Molina. “Chalice” marches forward into that melodic breach. The guitar solos here sound like a variations of a classical (Bach?), then it runs into the deep fuzz chords of “Red Bandana.” Like Molina or 2nd Grade, the songs are very short. Most under 2 minutes.

 The twin guitar attacks keep things moving along with a restless energy like on “Talking Dog”, while Auld’s soft vocal harmonies keeps everything grounded. The feedback signals the next song, with those guitar riffs giving the record its identity.  In a few spots, a soft acoustic guitar starts the melody, I enjoyed this on “Long Before I Felt The Grace,” where it really comes to a great crescendo. But each song does a fine job here, despite the quick timing and jarring shifts in tone. Sit through a full listen, it’s highly recommended.

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“Pete

Various Artists “Just Look Inside The Cover – Songs Of Pete Ham”

The late Pete Ham, songwriter and co-founder of the legendary power pop band Badfinger, has remained remarkably prolific through posthumous releases, with eight albums issued. “Just Look Inside the Cover” is the second tribute album dedicated to his songwriting. Its predecessor, “Shine On,” focused on the songs Ham wrote for Badfinger’s studio albums. This new collection places the spotlight on the exceptional demos Ham recorded, but never fleshed out into full songs.

With 22 tracks, several artists do an excellent job bringing Pete’s compositions to life. Mike Delevante’s “A Lonley Day” is a great start with his warm inviting vocals, and  several well known performers include Mimi Betinis (Pezband), Bill Lloyd, and Tobin Sprout (Guided By Voices) lend solid entries here. My favorites here are Eric Dover (Jellyfish) doing a perfect “Leaving On A Midnight Train” and Rob Bonfiglio really shines on the gem “Hand In Hand.” The last living members from the Badfinger family also contribute; Bob Jackson doing the title track, and an 80-year old Ron Griffiths sings “Take Good Care Of My Baby.” While this was a labor of love, some artists here just are just not that good, as well as unknown to me. But for Badfinger and Pete Ham fans, this is an essential part of your collection.

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Power Popaholic Interview: Chris Stamey

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Chis Stamey (3rd Interview)

Chris Stamey returns to Powerpopaholic for his third appearance! Known for his groundbreaking work with The dB’s and a career that has spanned decades as a songwriter, producer, arranger, and recording artist, Chris joins us to discuss his outstanding new album, “Modernism.” Lots of cover songs, but not a typical “covers” album. This was Chris having fun in the studio. Check out the album review here.

The Rallies and Hypnolovewheel

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The Rallies

The Rallies “No Better Time”

Seattle’s The Rallies deliver an effortlessly melodic sound that balances warmth and energy without it feeling too lightweight. Opening track “This Time” is packed with hooks and instantly memorable, while “I Believe” builds on that momentum with an uplifting message and added guitar punch. The band’s sound recalls the melodic craftsmanship of Squeeze, The La’s, and even a touch of Deadeye Dick. “Comes and Goes” is a great example; a slow building simple verse that leads to an irresistible “la la la” chorus.

Produced by Johnny Sangster at Crackle & Pop, the album showcases a cohesive performance from Steve Davis, Lee Brown, Ben Heege, and Brian Chase.  The album’s second half leans into its ’60s-inspired jangle, with the rich harmonies of “Love” and the Monkees-inspired “You Set Me Free.” Additional highlights include the minor-key gem “Be With You” and the self-assured “Not So Much Anymore.” The Rallies never stray far from a strong melody, and this one is highly recommended.

Amazon


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Hypnolovewheel

Hypnolovewheel “Parallel Universe”

Ahead of their time, Hypnolovewheel spent the late ’80s and early ’90s crafting a distinctive blend of garage rock, noise pop, post-punk, and psychedelia. Featuring guitarists Steve Hunking and Dave Ramirez, bassist Dan Cuddy, and drummer Peter Walsh, the band occupied a space somewhere between The Pixies and The Presidents of the United States of America. Despite releasing several excellent albums, they never received the wider recognition they deserved. The new compilation, ‘Parallel Universe,’ makes a strong case for rediscovery.

Across 22 tracks, power pop fans will find plenty to enjoy. The jangly, melodic “Bridget Because” balances perfectly against the fuzzed-out guitars of “Peace of Mind.” Short, hook-filled songs are scattered throughout the collection, with shades of early R.E.M., Talking Heads, and Hüsker Dü woven into the band’s sound. While a few tracks show their age, standouts like “Pleasant Valley,” “Here Comes a Headache,” “What’s Going On,” “Embarrassment,” and “Secret Star” remain as compelling as ever. For newcomers, Parallel Universe serves as an ideal introduction to one of alternative rock’s overlooked treasures. Highly recommended.

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More June gems: Scott Gagner, The Amplifier Heads, Bramwell, Little Gold, Barry Walsh, The 286

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Scott Gagner is back with a serious “Sugar Rush.” His upcoming album ‘Sweet Tooth’ leans harder into pure pop than his previous work, and the first taste is irresistible.

Next up, The Amplifier Heads are ready to turn up the volume. Led by Boston power pop veteran Sal Baglio, the band delivers a crunchy preview of their forthcoming album that reminds you why rock and roll still matters.

UK outfit Bramwell channels the golden age of British AM radio on the excellent “Standing on Stones,” blending timeless melodies with sharp songwriting.

Little Gold offers another standout preview from its upcoming LP, mixing power pop hooks with a warm, lo-fi country spirit.

From Ireland, former Fireflys frontman Barry Walsh returns with the infectious new single “Star Ride,” packed with melody and charm.

Closing things out, The 286 delivers an EP worth your attention. Drawing inspiration from Jeff Lynne’s melodic style, the collection mixes strong covers with standout originals like “Midnight Symphony” and “Unbreakable.”