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Michael Knott Rocket and a Bomb (1994)
This CD was my introduction to the strange world of Mike Knott. basically an album of observations on the people he saw and met around his Huntington Beach apartment complex. From the woman who may or may not be cooking her husbands remains in her apartment, (Kitty) to the homeless junkie mike is supposed to take to rehab (bubbles), we get a glimpse into his surroundings, and it makes it all the more clear why he is the way he is. Surrounded by stripped down arrangements with acoustic guitar, cello, and tasteful overdriven electric guitar, this is a beautiful collection of songs, and is a must have for any Knott fan, or really, and fan of great music. (oh, and it's rumored that one of the songs is about a certain famous drummer/ producer...find a copy and judge for yourself).
~ Larry's pick
Album Review
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Shepherd
Committing to Tape (2003)
Northern Records
This is an underrated and overlooked album by one of
today’s best songwriters. Of course, Ronnie Martin is best known for the
analog synth work of Joy Electric. This side project (Shepherd) removes
Ronnie from the quirky, fantasy-filled electronics of JE and allows him
to write rock songs. But it’s impossible for Martin to record anything
that is conventional. In many ways, Committing To Tape is his
least conventional music to be released, and it almost never saw the
light of day. After sitting for almost a year, Tooth & Nail decided
against releasing the Shepherd project. Thankfully, Northern Records
agreed to release this gem. Committing To Tape is simply a somber
and mopping, minimal rock album. Dry guitars. Roland bass. Ronnie’s
distinctive faux-British tenor. And an incredible showcase of drumming.
Ronnie Martin, with a little help from Frank Lenz, is Shepherd…and he
wants to make you cry without using lollipops or analogs.
For fans of: Joy Electric’s Unelectric.
Pedro The Lion’s It’s Hard To Find A Friend.
~Garrett's pick
Album Review
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Ester Drang
Goldenwest
(2001)
This is a very
atmospheric outing. Every time I listen to it I take something
new away from it. Everyone of their albums are quite
interesting. Their isn't a bad song in the bunch. I am really
looking forward to a new release. Which should be sometime this
year. This is a musical treasure that should really be discovered by
more people. If you are a fan of drone music and atmospheric
stuff. Then you should really check this one out.
~ Paul's pick
Album Review
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All Things Bright and Beautiful
Love & Affection (2003)
Northern Records
Love and Affection, is
the solo project of Lee Bozeman of Luxury . Lee leaves
behind the alternative traditional rock of Luxury. And
shoots for more of a piano acoustic rock outing, with a touch of
electric guitar. The music on this album is very beautiful and
honest. From the very start this album will grab you and not
let you go. The music is very unique and different, something I
always look for in cd. This is an important meaningful album
that I think everyone could take something good away from it.
~ editor's pick
Album Review
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The Fray
The Reason Ep (2003)
These guys were
just recently signed to Epic Records. They are in the studio as
I write this recording the follow up to this record. These
guys have boatloads of talent. It will be interesting to see how
far it will carry them. Fans of Coldplay will love this
one. I'm sure the band is tired of all the references to
Coldplay....sorry guys. I would much rather listen to The
Fray any day over Coldplay Keep your eyes open for these
guys. I expect big things to come for them in the future.
~
Anthony's pick
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