Astra Heights "The March"

During the 2008 SXSW festival in Austin, TX there is an embarrassment of riches when it comes to great new power pop, these guys were one of the better bands I have heard. A great hook, a steady beat and a killer bass line do wonders… Album review coming soon I hope.

The Dave Clark Five "Glad All Over"

One of my favorite “oldies” groups and part of the original British invasion following in the Beatles wake. In fact, the first major hit, “Glad All Over”, knocked the Beatles’ “I Want To Hold Your Hand” off the No.1 spot in 1964. They are finally getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 10. Unfortunately singer and keyboard player Mike Smith will not attend due to his death yesterday at age 64. These guys had tons of monster hits in the sixties: “Because”, “Catch Us If You Can”, “Bits and Pieces”, “I Like it Like That” and my favorite “Glad all Over.” R.I.P. Mike – thanks for the great music.

Michael Carpenter "Can’t Go Back"

G’day powerpopaholics! This great sounding video by Aussie power popper Michael Carpenter tells me another album may be on the way soon! This is classic hook-filled goodness with all that Beatles paraphernalia in the studio for inspiration.