Singles Late June: John Larson and The Silver Fields, Late Cambrian, The Dogmatics, Friends of Cesar Romero, Star Circus, The Jive

John Larson and The Silver Fields has a new album out called ‘Rumble Candy’ and, we feature the video for “Turnaround, Girl” one of the better tunes here. Fans of rock and roll jangle should check it out! Late Cambrian was looking to make happy music for the zombie flick “28 Year Later,” it’s an awesome tune, even if it doesn’t match the movies tone. On the harder track, we have The Dogmatics punk-pop of “You’ve Got What I Want” and it speeds through our headphones quick. Friends of Cesar Romero is sounding more like Sloan on it’s new freebie – check out “Summer Boyfriend” and “Rebound Baby.” Star Circus is a band that walks the line between power pop and stadium hard rock. Influenced by Queen, Thin Lizzy, Cheap Trick and Def Leppard, it works nicely. The new album is ‘From The Wreckage’ and I’ve inclined to get it based on this single, visit the Bandcamp page for more. Finally, along the same lines The Jive is another strong power pop band with a hard rock edge. Check out “Good Time Call” and you’ll see what I mean. So these hot bands should help you cool off!





EP Reviews and more: The Lickerish Quartet, Nezrok, Hoover and Martinez, Butterknife, Rumstock!

The Lickerish Quartet “Threesome Vol. 3”

Ex-Jellyfish members (Roger Joseph Manning Jr., Eric Dover, and Tim Smith) finish the final piece of the triptych in Threesome Vol. 3.  And there will be a Japanese release of all three EPs with some bonus material for fans, but this volume is a bit sober compared to previous EPs. Opening with “Fortunately” has the signature harmonies and melodies, as it states “no one really goes to hell,” but looks to Roger’s “New Days,” for a lush, if not slightly psych-pop epic about hope in a new era. Fans of his solo work will recognize some passages, but “You All Alone” and “In The Meantime” feel more serious, slightly prog, and feel stuffed with anxiety. Musically, it’s the strongest volume and is highly recommended. Get it now on Amazon.

The Lickerish Quartet · Threesome, Vol. 3

Nezrok “The Human Race”

Nezrok is Chris Korzen (his last name spelled backward) with a few helpers ( Fernando Perdomo and Chris DeAngelis) on this collection of smooth tunes.  Sounding a little like a combination of Todd Rundgren and Steely Dan, the title track is a solidly compelling composition with a classy guitar break. The Rundgren cover of “It Takes Two To Tango” is beautifully done, as with  “St Valentine’s Day Massacre” written shortly after the tragedy of the Parkland, FL high school mass shooting. The songs are both bittersweet and oozing soul. Highly Recommended.

Hoover and Martinez “The 3P”

The duo of Jamie Hoover (The Spongetones) and Christine Martinez. “The Scene of the Cryin’” is truly magic, co-written by Catesby Jones (co-writer of “Country Club” recorded by Travis Tritt). Christine’s honey vocals are out front on “Tequila,” a light country-pop ballad. Check it out.

Butterknife “Staring At The Ceiling”

Boston project that’s been 8 years in the making. This is a FREEBIE with several good songs. “Stagefright” starts with a nice instrumental, but keeps your attention with a catchy chorus. “If You Say So” is part Nirvana, part Big Star and “Broken Telecaster” is loaded with emo-energy.

Rumstock!

Another wonderful Rum Bar Records FREEBIE Compilation, but this promotes an evening concert in Somerville, MA on July 9, featuring The Dogmatics, Muck and the Mires, The Gypsy Moths, and The Shang Hi Los! Concert tickets are here