Tag: Doug Gillard

Sour Ops and Doug Gillard

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Sour Ops

Sour Ops “Bikers Make Better Lovers”

Nashville power pop-rock trio Sour Ops, led by Price Harrison, continues to build on its reputation for mixing proto-punk, glam, and power pop hooks with lyrics that often lean toward the cynical. Their latest LP, ‘Bikers Make Better Lovers,’ delivers another batch of sharp-edged rockers with plenty of personality. The production is crisp and uncluttered, allowing every instrument to sit comfortably in the mix. The lineup of Price Harrison (guitar, vocals), Tony Frost (bass), Steve Ebe (drums), and Mark Harrison (guitar, vocals) works together with impressive cohesion.

The heavy synths that introduce “Opting Out” quickly fade as a muscular guitar riff takes control. The song’s cool factor is undeniable, fueled by layered rhythm guitars and sharp vocals as Harrison declares he’s “opting out of everything that’s free.” Next, “Problem Number Next” recalls elements of Urge Overkill, thanks to its memorable melody and stacked guitar textures. When the band turns up the volume on “She’s So Strange,” the sound hints at AC/DC, albeit with stronger vocal melodies. This heavier approach reaches its peak on the infectious “Gym Bros,” a clever and entertaining commentary on hypermasculinity. Highly Recommended.

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Doug Gillard

Doug Gillard “Parallel Stride”

“Parallel Stride” is Doug Gillard’s first solo album in more than ten years. It features his trademark guitar-driven indie rock sound with catchy tunes and poignant lyrics. Gillard has been so busy with Guided By Voices, Nada Surf, Bambi Kino, and other projects that it’s an incredible accomplishment in and of itself that he has time for his own work. Gillard’s guitar work is both melodic as it is technically impressive.

The album opens with “Face of Smiles” and its instantly memorable GBV-styled riff, while the title track “Parallel Stride” is masterclass in gritty guitar melody akin to The Grip Weeds. The galloping rhythm of “Until I See You Again” has echoes of Tom Petty, but “New Vista” marries great minor chords with acoustic rhythm that sticks in your head. In fact, it’s astounding the range of tones and moods he’s able to get, keeping things unpredictable. Added highlights include “My Friends” and “Saving My Life Everyday.” Highly Recommended.

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End of April: Doug Gillard, Thesaurus Rex, Dave Cope and the Sass, Swive, The Chelsea Curve, Bullseye

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Doug Gillard (Guided by Voices, Nada Surf,etc.) has a new album coming out and a tour in May. I am always looking forward to Doug’s work. My FB search came upon Thesaurus Rex, high speed math rock that its kinda like TMBG in a way and I liked it. It’s been a while since I caught up with Dave Cope and the Sass, as he’s been churning out a ton of material (I will visit it all later) but his newest EP has a real gem, check out “Swedish Film.” Swive is a San Deigo band with a great sound on “Del Rio” and they fell under my radar years ago, but you can check out the debut from 2024 (Highly… you know!) The Chelsea Curve is back with more catchy music, just listen to “The Rideout.” Finally, Bullseye is a slacker band from New York City that reminds me of Big Star a little, check out “Dangers of The Heart.” Enjoy the Spring (looks like NYC is finally gonna thaw).

Twins and Doug Gillard

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Twins “Tomboys On Parade”
Twins wave their power pop flags high, and produce a rocking happy-go-lucky style of music that’s easy to fall in love with. “Teach Each Other,” follows the Big Star tradition of intricate melodies, memorable riffs and clear harmonies. “Long Way Down” has another catchy riff, with enough quirky vocal styling to keep it interesting.

“Thankful” is downright bizarre lyrically and vocally the harmonies remind me of The Loving Spoonfuls. “Babe City” also has a optimistic, almost inebriated approach with heavy riffs and “ba, ba, ba” choruses. Even the Kinks-like ditty “Ardsley Lane” is a joyful acoustic gem. Like the video we posted last month, this is an infectious fun party album. Highly Recommended.

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Doug Gillard “Parade On”
Doug Gillard is one of those special musicians not enough people pay attention to, and should. He’s played with Guided By Voices, Nada Surf, Lifeguards, Death Of Samantha, Gem, Bambi Kino, Sally Crewe, Mascott, and many more. With Parade On, he starts with the best George Harrison song he never wrote “Ready For Death” a catchy hummable melody about the inevitable. “Angel X” is a fast paced tune with some great layered keys and amazing guitarwork.

The melodic subtleties of “I Shall Not Want” remind me of Alan Parsons a bit. Both “Come Out and Show Me” and “No Perspective” have some obvious GBV fingerprints. One of the best songs here is “Oh My Little Girl,” a  jangle-filled melody, that could’ve used a more forceful vocal but still shines bright. The title track is another catchy earworm that you’ll find yourself humming along to. The flat production doesn’t always benefit the songs, but that said its a fine collection of tunes worth your time.

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