Vanilla “Sideshow”
Jayson Jarmon, Sean Gaffney, Mark Simmons are back after a retro-pop diversion into 1966, with Sideshow. The opener “Sorry” is a bright hook-filled gem that bounces along with its rhyming verse. The 90’s jangle of “Milkmen” is a fast tempo gem along the lines of XTC circa Oranges and Lemons. The music is frequently poignant, “Best Days Gone” are a comment on the sad state of the music industry, where artists beg for listeners to “play me, pay me,” but “I Shall Be Re-Released” brings us some hope, as those great songs will never die.
Not everything is great, “It’s Drunk and I’m Raining” is a so-so novelty rocker along the lines of the Bonzo Dog Band. The band does much better with the lush pop of “Misery Loves Company,” and “The Truth Is Never True.” And there are more than enough gems here to make this a highly recommended pick. Definitely give it listen.
Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard “Backhand Deals”
Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard. Say it three times into a mirror and the ghost of Marc Bolan appears! Not really. But this cheeky band from Cardiff, Great Britain is a true joy to listen to.
The bubblegum glam opening “New Age Millennial Magic” is catchy and addictive, but the lyrics have a distinctly dark side if you pay attention. “Good Day” may sound like happy pop, but “if you believe in something/we’ll let you die for nothing.” It’s punk nihilism with a happy smiling face. And the sound recalls a glorious mix of T.Rex, Queen, and Supergrass.
Lead vocalist Tom Rees has great range, proving it with “Break Right In,” a bright charmer about a small ray of optimism in the face of adversity. He also does well with the ballad “Yourself,” and the bass-driven “You” gives advice to “look out for yourself.” Next “Feel the Change!” boasts a wicked piano, bass, guitar combo that sticks in your head. Overall, a highly recommended album.