Cliff Hillis “Be The Now” EP
Cliff Hillis has been such a talented fixture across so many great bands (The Orchestra, Smash Palace, Starbelly) it’s easy to forget his excellent solo career spans over 20 years. Be The Now is likely his most mature-sounding album, with songs that opine on hope and hopelessness. Starting with the pensive “Good Morning and Goodnight” its a cleverly chilled panic attack that sticks to your brain effortlessly.
Almost easy listening, but “Motel Parking Lot” is a brilliant slice-of-life theme that recalls Adam Schlesinger. “Wanna Feel Good” is a simple and economical tune that Cliff effortlessly pulls off. As with most Cliff Hillis, his approach means no filler, all killer. From the country “Spring Foreward” to the boosting “Oh, Dan Bern” with Dan Bern singing a verse about Cliff, it’s a fun highly enjoyable 8-song EP. Highly Recommended.
The Bug Club “Green Dream in F#”
This charming indie pop just bursts from the speakers. The Wales duo of Tilly and Sam sing about space, small-town life, love, and bad habits. These short goodies are under 2 minutes each and most of the tunes are catchy as hell. The opener “Only in Love” is a finely crafted earworm that speeds by with a grin. Sam gives us a dour Velvet Underground-on-speed approach to “The Six O’Clock News” and the next several tracks. “It’s Art” reminds me of the early new wave, and “Going Down” has a lovely baseline (even more Lou Reed-like).
Things are usually hit or miss with this many short songs, but the melodies are carefully composed, and the sharp humor keeps it moving. Very few fillers here, and “Love Letters From Jupiter” is another highlight. Plus the band has another added EP “Pure Particles” that has slightly longer songs. All this deserves to be heard and celebrated. This is a club I wouldn’t mind joining.
