Michael Oliver & The Sacred Band “Yin & Yanxiety”
Boston based Michael Oliver (formerly of Go Dog Go!) sets in motion an excellent group of smart pop tunes that combine many great influences. “Complicated” opens with a wicked riff and slow beat similar to Matthew Sweet or Michael Penn. Next we are treated to a gorgeous arrangement in “Neverlast” which draws from Brian Wilson, stating ironically “there’s no use bringing up the good times of the past.” The album boast some excellent rockers “Love While It Lasted” and “Little Miss Oblivious” with memorable hooks and nice double-tracked harmonies. No filler here, even the ballads like “It Was You” and “I Won’t Get Over You” are very compelling and moving compositions. Plenty of highlights, and it’s the song details like the handclapped beats on “Tell Me What You’re Dreaming” that enhance the overall melody. It does lose a bit of steam toward the end, but after a few spins I’m convinced this album deserves a nomination to be in the top ten for 2011 (one more month left!) so don’t miss it — it’s essential listening.
Ken Kase Group “Collected Works 1997-2008”
Ken Kase is not your average singer-songwriter, and his unique pop stylings are gathered in this satisfying collection. Comparable to Marshall Crenshaw, David Yazbek or a more pop oriented Todd Rundgren – its tough to peg Ken Kase to a single style. All you need to know is that the album has wonderful hooks and earnest lyrical stories. Starting with the energetic “Pauline” it has a neat sticky riff ending each chorus. The dark subject of date rape comes into focus on “Walk Right In” and the excellent chords in “I Guess Your Word” make it another winner.
Some have labeled Ken as an “intellectual” pop guy with titles like “Theraphosid” and similar to They Might Be Giants, he manages to comment on pop culture perfectly with a jazzy touch on “The Coffee House Of Doom.” The country styled “The Names of The Roses” and the XTC-like “Insincere Apology” are both personal and highly enjoyable listening. A great example of one of Ken’s best is “Shiner” with a slick eighties pop sheen, it’s about reconnecting with a long lost friend. Not everything on the album works, but most of it does – so give this rare talent your attention.
