This is an interview with Adam Kidron (CEO of Boinc) and Mark Mulligan on the influence of social sites in spreading music around. Like many social media sites, Boinc is set to launch a new music service soon in the UK. Could it spread here? Who will dominate the “influencer” space of music online?
Author: powerpopaholic
Michael Carpenter “SOOP #4”
Another hard working Aussie, Michael Carpenter is still doing great cover work. This is Carpenter’s fourth album of “Songs Of Other People” and he digs into some more obscure album tracks of his favorite artists. If you are not familiar with some, like “End Of The World” by Jonah’s Road then this is a great introduction to these songs. Others that are better known are still a lot of fun and Carpenter’s unique vocal and style makes each song his own.
Highlights are many, and include Graham Parker’s “Life Gets Better” and the McCartney chestnut “Get Closer.” Because of the track selection – a lot of this was fresh to me, as even oldies like Gene Clark’s “That’s Alright By Me” seemed like a new song. The only argument against the covers here is if the track compels you to find the original, as it doesn’t quite feel natural. I only found that with Steely Dan’s “FM” – as good as Michael is I really missed Donald Fagen’s vocal. This covers collection will definitely expand your musical horizons – and it’s a welcome addition to your collection.
Hurricane Fighter Plane and The NewNo2
Hurricane Fighter Plane “s/t” EP
Fans of Rainbow Quartz retro bands like the Resonars and Brit-pop bands like Oasis will appreciate this one. Classic influences are easily spotted (The Who, Small Faces, The Beatles) and dutifully applied. The band opens with the Mod rhythms of “Moonlight Through The Norfolk Pines” filled with Who-styled high energy guitar riffs. “Come Back To Me” demonstrates lead singer Wesley Fuller’s uncanny ability to channel Noel Gallagher and the chiming chords of “It Won’t Last” make it a triumphant pop single that’s sure to linger – it belongs on your ipod now. And the band knows harmonies too, just check out the amazing “Free As The Wind.” Every tune here is filled with short, sharp, hooks guaranteed to please. An great debut and it only costs five bucks – so get it!
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TheNewNo2 “EP002” EP
The second EP from Dhani Harrison (George’s son) collects several singles including “Live A Lie” featuring Regina Spektor as well as rapper RZA on “Mr. President.” Fans of his dad’s somber approach will find a lot to like on “Wide Awake.” The track is a slow techno-soul ballad with a solid vocal, slow beat and spacey flourishes. “Live A Lie” is another exotic single with the flavor of a smokey lounge and Ms. Spektor’s cooing background vocal. You can get this single free on The NewNo2 Facebook page. I wasn’t thrilled with the rap, which obviously panders to Obama supporters, but maybe we can expect something more upbeat on the next EP.
The Wellingtons “In Transit”
Melbourne Australia’s hardest working power pop band recorded and mixed In Transit in London and had it mastered at the legendary Abbey Road Studios. And the Wellington’s latest is once again a wonderful power pop creation. The band’s sound has gotten tighter and more consistent with time, and lead vocal Zac Anthony’s approach has more of a pop (as opposed to rock) sound than previous releases, with less emphasis on the lead guitar driving the melody and more reliance on vocals and harmonies to do the heavy lifting.
Opening with the fast-paced chords of “Keep Me Holding On” Zac takes charge assisted by Kate Goldby’s backing harmonies. And Goldby gets to shine as lead vocal herself for the brilliant “I’m Feeling The Same Way” and “Baby’s Got A Secret.” The compositions are dense with instrumentation that creates a full wall of sound that envelops the listener. The guitar is more prominent on “Adamant” which drives home the catchy chorus and Gustav Lindstroms crashing drums are a perfect compliment too. Another highlight among many is “Your Love Keeps Bringing Me Down” with its piano chords and “bop-bop” backing vocal harmonies that fans of Jellyfish will swoon for.
The pace is relentless till we reach the string laden ballad “I Fell For You,” and here the band stretches its wings with a goose-bump inducing bridge. The songwriting here is also excellent. Every tune here hits the mark, with a one exception(“Alright, Alright” feels a bit forced compared to the others). For those bands looking for a prime example of modern power pop, this should serve as the new template. Fans of IKE, Farrah, and group harmonies should not hesitate and grab this album. Easy top ten nominee for 2011.
Video Reviews: The Doughboys and John Wicks
It’s a real rarity that I review concert DVDs, but I wanted to show my appreciation for these talented artists.
The Doughboys “Rock N Raw Live”
You thought you knew the New Jersey band, The Doughboys? Well I’m sure no one told you the history of a band that is over 40 years old and one of the best live rock bands in the east. It all started with Richard X. Heyman and Mike Scavone in the early sixties and how they formed a band, drifted apart and re-united. This documentary is very well done, similar to the Beatles Anthology with photos, radio clips and between each biographical segment is a live concert performance from the reunion at Arlene’s Grocery in NYC. Highly polished and beautifully filmed it will give the average viewer a special insight into how good the Doughboys really are.
Only at Doughboys Direct
John Wicks “Lessons Learned (Live & Unplugged)”
This is a rare DVD release that captures an acoustic performance of John Wicks of The Records and guitarist Dennis Taylor at McCabe’s Guitar Shop in Santa Monica, CA on August 20, 2010. It’s an intimate and simple setting, one camera and no frills here. Wicks and Taylor do a great job performing from John’s extensive catalog of material. For Wicks and Records fans it’s a must buy.
Only at Kool Kat Musik