When one talks about perennial underrated musicians that have produced stellar material for years, Twilley has to be part of the conversation. In fact, he continues to produce great material, his latest Green Blimp is now available from his site. He’s offering up the track “I’m On A Dream” FREE on his site for a limited time, just click the”Get It Now” button. Consider this video a quick appetizer – the main course comes on Monday.
Jay Banerjee, Cuff The Duke, and FREE Sam Vicari album
Jay Banerjee “Kissing Booth”
The headstrong Jay Banerjee made a name for himself by creating “Hipster Demolition Night” at Brooklyn’s Southpaw, and playing power pop with a pure punk aesthetic. Just imagine if Johnny Rotten was leader of The Spongetones and you’ll get the idea. Jay is a skilled songwriter as evidenced by “The Boy In The Hand” with it’s jangling Rickenbacker and the honest emotion of “Leave Me Alone.” The production is pretty lo-fi and Jay’s vocals are often off-key, but the genuine passion in his music is admirable.
Cuff The Duke “Way Down Here”
Produced by Greg Keelor (Blue Rodeo) this is a warm alt. country album that combines the classic touch of Neil Young, Wilco and “Sweetheart” era Byrds. Opening with the folky “You Were Right” it’s got a laid back Americana vibe that follows through on the up tempo “Follow Me.” The retro sounding “It’s A Blur” is full of intense guitar builds and the understated vocal of “Promises” bring out the impressive melody and driving beat. However the real gem here is “Listen To Your Heart” the best Jayhawks song you’ve never heard. This album grows on you and sticks in your head nicely. Highly recommended.
Sam Vicari “Keep Careful” FREE Download
Indiana native Vicari has a high almost adolescent warble, and he looks like a nerdy kid, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the strong guitar and Buddy Holly meets Weezer goodness of his debut Keep Careful. Starting simply with “Reasons” the guitar riffs chime along to a forceful melody. Every song here shines with power pop talent and an uplifting attitude, like on the chord shifting “Things I Say.” Why this guy is unsigned I’ll never guess, but anyway you can get this undiscovered gem as a free download.
Lamar Holley and The Boolevards
Lamar Holley “Lo-Fi”
Lamar Holley created one of the best power pop albums ever on Confessions of A College Student, and this year Holley has decided to focus on some early concept material. Lo-Fi is a mixed bag of smart pop with a Broadway flair and early demos. A few tracks have the same melodic genius displayed in Confessions, notably the the opener “Jack Loves Julie” with a Smile-styled orchestration, and the vocal harmonics sparkle on the chorus of “It’s Amazing,” a collaboration with Mark Plummer. The songs are mini-dramas and even through the crude four-track production of “Sorry Charlie” you hear the inventive composition and compelling story. Comparisons to Ben Folds (with a child’s POV) are inevitable on piano tracks like “Genius” and “Amelia.” The problem with some tracks is that they beg to be fleshed out (“Johnny in School”) and the crude demo quality detracts from the listening experience. Like an artist’s sketch book you’ll find a gems among the assorted songs and musical snippets but also an overall appreciation of Lamar’s considerable talents.
MySpace | Lamar’s Website | Amazon
The Boolevards “More Real Pop”
If you loved The Boolevards debut Real Pop, then you are in for another power pop treat. Seventeen more tracks that feature classic 70’s power pop composition with that distinct Rickenbacker jangle. “Roxanna” sets the pace, with tight drum fill between choruses and melodic hooks that do the job just perfectly. “Beat The Clock” features two part vocal harmonies & those background oohs and aahs, fans of The Rubinoos are sure to love. “Little Miss Impossible” goes back to the band’s Merseybeat roots, mimicking “Twist and Shout” and “Ships Passing” continues to brings to mind that simple nostalgic mid-tempo sound. The production seems better here than on the first album, and the songwriting is just as sharp. A variety of tempos also help make this album better. Fans of both Beatlesque and skinny tie pop genres will enjoy this, so fans of The Romantics, The Flashcubes, Scruffs, The Poppees, Sorrows and The Offbeat can come together on this one.
MySpace | CD Baby | Not Lame | Kool Kat Musik
Happy Election Day with Neil Nathan’s "So Much More"
Yeah, Neil Nathan was a teacher prior to his music career so here is a video to educate you all with his “get out the vote” message for election day tomorrow. If you missed his latest album go back to my review and get it, it’s a real keeper.
Free Album: My Brother Woody
A big thank you goes out to the band (aka Michael Cleare), for letting me know about this. I reviewed this My Brother Woody album and found it to be a total charmer. Most of the songs like “Your New Found Taste” have a macabre feeling behind it, maybe it’s the horns but it’s perfect for Halloween. Fans of Pernice Brothers and Lou Reed will really enjoy this. Even though this album is from 2008, it’s been moved from the bargain bin to FREE download at Bandcamp. And it’s got some bonus tracks and demos too!