John Larson and The Silver Fields and Jamie James

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“John

John Larson and the Silver Fields “Rumble Candy”

John Larson has been hard at work since last year’s ‘Constellation Prize,’ and the opener “For One Night Only” talks about the elusive goal of rock and roll stardom. Larson’s voice is authentic and appropriate, but it can be a bit underpowered at times. The tone and approach is better on “Turn Around, Girl,” a catchy tune with a nice hook. Things settle in with “Let’s Get Lost (In a Carnival of Sorts)” and “Contact Low” with pleasing melodies and jangling guitars.

“The Hits Keep Coming” embodies the album’s philosophy with its sense of drive and determination. Throughout the ten tightly packed tracks, the band remains true to its roots as a fast-paced power pop band, particularly on the Steppenwolf-inspired “Whisper To Be Heard.” Although the most of the songs are mid-tempo and flow well together, the set would be a bit better with a slower ballad or a harder rocker mixed in for variety. I would still give this one your time, as it is music that deserves to be heard.

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“The

Jamie James “Straight Up”

Jamie James is country and rock and roll musician who founded the early ’80s rockabilly band The Kingbees, and penned their notable hit “My Mistake.” He was also was a longtime guitarist for actors-turned-musicians Harry Dean Stanton and Dennis Quaid. At 71, he’s got plenty of grit and experience to put out many albums, so I’m glad he finally released this solo record.

“Let the Praying Begin” opens the album. It’s an and pop blues tune with wicked harmonica flourishes. The music has a open loose feel and “Get a Hold of Myself” follows the same path, with multiple instruments blending together. “Show Biz Boogie” is the highlight, a blues based takedown of celebrity burnout that recalls ZZ Top with its quick rhythm. “Septuagenarian Blues” is wry, matter of fact song that speaks to Jamie’s age. The production across the album is flawless and fans of modern blues, pop and rock will enjoy this.

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July singles: Bill Lloyd, Sloan, Trolley, Original+, Jonathan Rundman, Mary Strand

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July is hot and rainy, but the music keeps on coming. First a really cool AI video from my buddy Bill Lloyd on “Miles Behind” with the moody jazz sax, and lounge percussion, it’s a smooth instrumental, very different from the usual country or power pop. But hey, we are a power pop blog, so let’s not forget it. Sloan returns with something cinematic as well, “Live Forever” is a typical gem with a great chorus from the upcoming album. Another dramatic preview is Trolley and “A Carnival of Grey and White” that boasts a great song with a cool synth and bass rhythm. The guitars punctate each verse here and it sails. New Jersey band Original+ has an energetic EP just check out “Can’t Hang” and “Fraidy Cat.” Jonathan Rundman’s new single is kinda like vintage Mojo Nixon, about getting fireworks. Finally, Mary Strand gets to the point of it all with “Does any of it really matter?” Sometimes I ask myself the same thing. Enjoy.




Iain Hornal and The Grip Weeds

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“The

Iain Hornal “Return to the Magic Kingdom”

Iain Hornal has likely the best pedigree I’ve seen for an artist, as he’s a long-standing touring member of both 10cc and Jeff Lynne’s ELO, including touring with prog legend Yes. On his third album he swings for the fences, and it does not disappoint. There are some stylistic parallels between these songs and those of ELO and 10cc; however, it is important to highlight that they are original songs that have been meticulously crafted by Hornal.

Starting with “Little Bit More” is a blast of guitars and chugging piano with classical ascending chords and overlapping harmonies. The glam rhythms of “Positive People” are next. Loaded with those “la la la” vocal touches and handclaps, it’s like a wicked monologue from a charismatic cult leader. The catchy “Already Dead” is a perfect diagnosis for modern anxiety disorder, but the crown jewel of this album is “Love Your Enemies.” It starts out a little like an Andrew Gold piano gem, but grows into something so much more, with its layered earworm of a chorus and a solid biblical message to stop “pointing fingers at those twisted fools on the news.”  Additional highlights include “If It Were You”, a co-write with 10cc’s Graham Gouldman (who also features on the track) and the very ELO-like break up song “Over and Out.” Overall one of the catchiest albums I’ve heard this year. It makes my top ten list for sure. Super Highly Recommended.

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“The

The Grip Weeds “Soul Bender”

At this point The Grip Weeds are not contented to stand still. On ’Soul Bender’ they create a kaleidoscope of sound by combining garage rock, paisley pop, and baroque psychedelia. The title track marches out like a combination of late ’60s The Moody Blues and The Who. It sets the mood nicely, and next we have “Flowers for Cynthia” and “Spinning The Wheel.” These fuzz-laden psychedelic power pop tracks juggle garage rock tenacity with Byrdsian jangle in a strong, powerful hook. The Rickenbackers are up front, and the distortion pedals are less of an issue. Kurt Reil makes sure the vocals don’t get lost either, and it makes great listening.

“Conquer and Divide” and “Wake Up Time” seem direct descendant of Moby Grape, and the band still has that Beatlesque blend with The Byrds to dazzle with “Column of Air” and the Kristen vocal led “If You Were Here.” Another pop confection is “Someone in Love,” which reminds me of The Aerovons. Overall, no filler or a trace of indulgent psychedelic bombast get in the way of each melody. A great band continues to impress with a great album. Highly Recommended.

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