Android Angel “Glow Worm”
Paul Colto (aka Android Angel) set forth to create this album and right away his musical equipment was stolen. Continuing undaunted, the album has contributions from musicians along Paul’s journey. This is not a standard indie pop album, as the opening track “Music of Android Angel” combines synth, guitar, drums, and radio sound bytes overlapping into a harmonious pattern. But this odd electronica styled opener is just an appetizer. The wonderful “In Communique” has a very Dylanesque quality that utilizes an orchestral sweep and a female backup chorus. This continues on “Unfinished Business” where Paul’s vocal resembles Donald Fagen, and his speedy guitar riff recall Pete Townshend. It delves into a deliciously creepy Progressive rock riff on “My Virus Crown,” but stumbles badly on the bland punk pop of the crime themed “Wheels.” It’s the emotional tug of “Love With No Reason” and “Glow Worm” which resonates here. Adventurous pop fans will not be disappointed here with nihilistic songs like “The Beginning Of The End.” Fans of Roger Waters, Radiohead, Mercury Rev and Townshend-like ballads will also enjoy these tracks and many more.
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Jupiter One “Sunflower”
Jupiter One is a modern New York pop band that creates ear friendly melodies and safe dance floor grooves. Mixing past pop influences with bits of pop art and the absurd, the video for “Volcano” offers a snapshot of the band’s sound. Wild and out-there while maintaining elements of post-modern nostalgia, the video takes you on a ride through striking visual landscapes that mirror the explosive content of the song. The opening track, “Volcano” wanders into Maroon 5 pop territory and the heavy guitar and strained vocals of “Lights Go Out” recall the recent Adam Marsland. The band seems to have a sound for whatever your mood. It switches gears again on “Flaming Arrow” which is a sweet alt-pop tune with a catchy multi-tracked chorus designed to soothe. Singer K Ishibashi is a musical chameleon who changes with each twist and turn in this vibrant album. “Anna” accesses a Queen-like falsetto chorus and is both familiar and completely new. The gentle ballad “Find Me A Place” is has K’s restless vocal resemble Morrissey doing Sting. It also is a “grower” meaning the album’s melodies get stickier with each listen. No duds or filler on this album either so if you like a little variety with your power pop, this will do just fine.
