Tag: Brad Marino

The Junipers and Brad Marino

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“The

The Junipers “The Solid and the Hollow”

Robyn Gibson (lead guitar, vocals) says it best, “… it became a kind of nostalgia trip,” and the band’s fifth album keeps those stylistic touches that recall The Beatles, The Association, and The Free Design. “Oneless” is a subtle opener, with Gibson’s gentle vocal leading the way. It’s the template for most of the songs to follow, with the exceptions being the driving bass line lead on the psyche-pop of “When She Turns” and spacey synths on “Fishes.”

There are lots of great moments within the songs that evoke a mood akin to a bright summer day. “She Makes The Sun Shine” is especially buoyant with a rhythm line akin to The Beatles’ “Rain.” “Meadow Song” has a wonderful mix of keys, guitars, and layered sounds, and slowly builds into something great. “Swan” is another breezy melody that wallows in the dreamlike atmosphere, with subtleties in the harmonies that audiophiles will appreciate. If you fell in love with this band from their super catchy ‘Euphonious Trolley’ EP, this album is its spiritual cousin. Highly Recommended.

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“Brad

Brad Marino “Agent of Chaos”

With his electrifying new album ‘Agent of Chaos’, singer-songwriter Brad Marino unleashes a pure, unrelenting blast of rock and roll that refuses to hold back. His fifth album is lean but explosive—just 12 tracks, smashing through in half an hour, perfectly balancing power pop and garage punk.

From the first riffs of “Blowing Smoke,” Marino makes it crystal clear—he’s not dialing it down, he’s turning it UP. Tracks like “Calling Your Bluff” explode with a Ramones-inspired drive, yet Marino anchors everything with those hooks. From the opening notes, “Voodoo” locks into an irresistible groove, and “Lost Without You” shows that Marino still cares about melody just as much as attitude. A few tunes seem redundant (“Sick of You”) but a majority of songs here hit the mark. If you’re seeking a sense of jangly nostalgia, you might want to continue exploring the album reviewed above. But, if you’re interested in fast, energetic songs filled with hooks and a sense of grit, Marino has the goods. Highly Recommended.

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April EP and Single Madness: Brad Marino, Softjaw, Phenomenal Cat, Onesie, Radio Days, Randy Klawon, Shake Some Action!

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Brad Marino has the formula and it still works! His new LP “Agent of Chaos” is out (review soon) and he’s calling my bluff, just check out the video. Next, one of the strongest extended EPs I’ve heard this year is Softjaw. Similar to the Uni Boys, almost every song here is great and a text book perfect example of modern power pop. Next, another great band, Phenomenal Cat from the UK holds nothing back, this is pop art as power pop. I loved “Seatown®” and “21st Century Englishman” with its touch of psychedelic pop akin to Donovan. Brilliant stuff here that should not be missed. Tough to follow, but Onesie rocks out with this new single “Meetcha At Minnies (The Captain’s Song).” Another return is Italian band Radio Days with a new album coming soon, and we get a new single to start. “I Won’t Give Up” is a blast of energy, glad to have them back. Next Randy Klawon (Flashcubes/Half Cubes) gives us a stellar pop single “All is Fair In Love.” Finally, the retro pop of Shake Some Action! new EP “Too Many Secrets” feels like a soundtrack for a lost Austin Powers sequel. Love the atmosphere here. Yeah baby!

October Non-Halloween singles and EPs: Maura Weaver, Corin Ashley, Brad Marino, Late Cambrian, Webstirs, Future Teens

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Maura Weaver’s ‘Strange Devotion’ came out last month, but feels more appropriate for Halloween. Especially the single “The Face,” shown in this video. High quality indie pop that deserves more attention here! Also back is Corin Ashley with his new EP, check out the pop goodness of “Empathy Centre” and my fave here, “Monkey.”  Rocker Brad Marino needs no “Voodoo” to get me interested in his fantastic riffs, always a welcoming sound. Late Cambrian is back with a quirky indie pop gem “Into The Lilac Tree.” It’s got great chord shifts and Olive’s amazing vocal floating behind the swirling melody. John Wlaysewski’s layered composition is really impressive here. It’s been a long time since I heard from Chicago’s Webstirs, but this new tune is a good sign that I will enjoy their new album. Finally, Future Teens have very meme-aware lyrics on “Adjust Failure” about future anxiety and seems perfect for these times. A standout line; “I’m not getting any younger and it’s clear to me now.” Next week, bring out yer dead, or some candy!

Nick Frater and Brad Marino

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Nick Frater

Nick Frater “Oh Contraire!”

Nick Frater returns with ‘Oh Contraire’, a stunning power pop achievement that cements his place among the genre’s best. Although Frater has consistently produced memorable hooks and harmonies, his daring arrangements this time broaden his overall style. Many highlights here, the best being “I Know You Know I Know,” a memorable single with glam rock-inspired riffs and along with “One Minute” and “My Heart’s in Stereo,” it echoes Jeff Lynne’s signature production style. And when he wants to create a grand epic sound it’s no issue with “Songs For The One-Eyed City” loaded with descending guitar riffs, bells, echoing harmonies and a heavy rhythm section. Frater seamlessly blending his influences without losing his own distinct voice.

Another big highlight is “Dreaming of a Wonderland” which sounds like a lost 10cc single to me.  The mellow 1970s-inspired lounge pop of “Seraphim Called” and “Steal Away” are also refreshingly familiar, while the piano closer “Goodnight, Goodbye” is a McCartney-esque gem. Oh Contraire boasts a star-studded guest list, including Probyn Gregory, Michael Simmons, Cary Grace, and Texas power pop duo Lannie Flowers and Danny Wilkerson. Their contributions enhance an already great record, proving Frater’s ability to bring out the best in his collaborators. Without a note of filler, this one is a contender for my top ten of 2025. Highly Recommended.

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“Brad

Brad Marino “On The Brink”

Brad Marino’s latest release is a collection of 19 rarities, remixes, and unreleased tracks, carefully curated, remixed, and remastered. Known for his consistent output of high-energy rock, Marino unearthed a treasure trove of songs that showcase his signature blend of classic rock, and punk influences. ‘On The Brink’ leans more towards early rock and roll as a template, not that far from his old band The Connection.

If you’ve never heard Marino before, this is a great “instant” record collection. I love the re-made “Peggy Sue Got Married,” a shout out to Buddy Holly. Marino’s variety is on display too, from the mid tempo “Not Fooling Me” to the Ramones inspired “Hamburger U.” Included is the standout single duet “Over My Head” with Natalie Sweet. Overall a fun collection. Highly Recommended.

Amazon | Kool Kat Musik

Fourth of July Special: Brian Ray, The Drolls, Gentlemen Rogues, Friends of Cesar Romero, Steven Wright-Mark, Brad Marino, Muck and the Mires

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It’s been a long time, but Brian Ray (guitarist with Paul McCartney) returns with a new album in August. The new single, “When The Earth Was Round” is a small sample of what to expect. Freebies are here! The Drolls and Gentlemen Rogues deliver plenty of fuzzy punk power pop. Check out “Happy Hour,” and “Connection.” Then South Dakota’s Friends of Cesar Romero have a new high-energy EP, so check out “Last Summer a Year From Now.” Speaking of summer, we have a wonderful pop single from Steven Wright-Mark called “Summer Sky,” Hopefully, a new album isn’t far behind. Another great EP is Muck and the Mires newest, “Zoom Breakup,” with a high-tech way to dump your date. Finally, Brad Marino has been listening to those old hot-rod-era Beach Boys and The Rip Chords. He decided to add to that vintage genre with his car songs on “Hot Rod Rampage.” I love that cover of “Shut Down!” And in case you missed Steve Conte’s new song… Happy 4th of July!