Those Pretty Wrongs “Zed For Zulu”
The spirit of Big Star still lives on with the pairing of the band’s drummer Jody Stephens and guitarist Luther Russell. The opener features a simple acoustic rhythm that builds its melody from the emotional strings (courtesy of Chris Stamey) and harmonies on the wonderful “Tonight Tonight Tonight.” The jangling “Ain’t Nobody But Me” is another catchy highlight, recalling the California vibe of The Byrds or America.
Most of these songs are started with a simple guitar strum and easy-going vibe like “Time To Fly” and “The Carousel.” The contrasting acoustic and big fuzz riffs of “You & Me” evoke Big Star more than most here, but the ballads while lovely don’t generate much excitement. The lone piano song “Undertow” is a refreshing change of pace towards the end of the album. Not just for Big Star completists, Those Pretty Wrongs are pretty darn cool. Check it out.
Kai Danzberg “Euphoria” EP
German power-pop wunderkind Kai Danzberg has returned after a successful run early this year with Not Only Sunshine and has been very busy this year. This self-released EP is his latest musical confection, influenced by The Jellyfish, Michael Jackson, ELO, and Drake Bell. Like his early LP Pop-Up Radio, Kai likes to set up an atmosphere first. The carnival sounds of the overture lead to “Welcome To Euphoria” a tune of Sgt. Pepper grandiosity similar to Paul Steel.
The seven tracks are richly composed, as Kai narrates like a cabaret emcee the dramatic tragedy “Finally Free.” Next, “A Fool To Me” has an uptempo beat, and marches along but the gem here is the duet with Lisa Mychols “The Day” with its layered harmonies that perfectly welcome summer, and a coda full of swirling psychedelic guitar. Highly recommended.
