May 2018 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews by

aka

Band discography. Listen/stream on Bandcamp, CDBaby, & Spotify

babysue comix #334
babysue comix #335
babysue comix #336
Bad Things
Blonde Toledo
Brother Dege
Cabin Dogs
The Cleveland Steamers

The Complaints*
Laurent Perez Del Mar

Eureka California*
Laurent Eyquem*
Fine China*
Floppy Toppers
The Funky Dedd Peepuz

Robin George*
Holly Golightly and The Brokeoffs
Dave Greenslade*
Hamish Hawk & The New Outfit
Adrian Johnston

Keats
LegoHeads
Magazines R.I.P.
Marbin
*
Guerino Mazzola / Alex Lubet
Tami Neilson
*
Shuggie Otis

Peach Kelli Pop*
Phosphenes
Jeff Plankenhorn
Round About
Tom Rush

Sicks Times
Snore More
Garth Stevenson*
Gene Turonis

This Wilderness
Thought
Mike Uva*
Visceral Candy

Steve Wynn
You Thar

Youth In A Roman Field*
Yung Wu
Sleepy Zuhoski*
*Top Picks

Additional Items Received

 

May 2018 Thought.

The next stop is nowhere.

 

BAD THINGS

Bad things come
To those who
Wait.

 

Blonde Toledo - Where's That Sound (Laryngitis, CD, Pop)
Those wanting something more than is offered by music that fits into specific genres will find a lot to appreciate on Where's That Sound. This San Francisco, California-based quartet combines ideas and sounds from all over the place to create their own fresh and inspired music. The band is driven by the husband and wife songwriting team of Connie Walkershaw and Jesse Walkershaw, with the other members of the band having input into the overall sound. Backing the Walkershaws are Rick Kennan on drums, Felipe Gomez on guitar, and Joseph Chavez on percussion. Something that may interest listeners and readers is that Connie sometimes plays two (!) saxophones simultaneously. Where's That Sound is the band's debut album, and it's bound to catch on with audiences. The tracks on this disc have a nice friendly overall vibe...they're the kinda thing that you can either hum along with or dance to. From what we're hearing, the band's real strength lies in their live shows. Even though the ideas and influences are varied and far-reaching, if we had to sum up this group's sound simply and succinctly...we'd call if groove-oriented pop with jazzy flavors. Ten well-crafted crowd pleasers here including "Watch Your Back," "Where's That Sound," "Bar at the End of the World," and "What Makes a Man." Catchy upbeat stuff with addictive qualities.

Brother Dege - Farmer's Almanac (CD, Psyouthern, Swamp/country/psychedelic/roots)
Brother Dege is a real character. This guy's been bopping around Louisiana for years getting himself involved in all kinds of different situations. Previously a member of the band Santeria from 1994 to 2004, Dege (whose last name is Legg) eventually opted to go solo. He's worked all kinds of jobs over the years...washing dishes, driving a cab, writing, and working at a homeless shelter. But making music is apparently his real calling, and it seems as if it's all beginning to pay off. Dege has already been nominated for a Grammy and fans seem to be lining up all over the place to hear him play now. If this is the new sound of the South...count us in. Apologies to those who love it, but we never cared much for 1970s Southern rock artists like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers (blech). (Although we admit that we still get a kick out of yelling "Free Bird" at the end of concerts, no matter who's playing.) But back to the matter at hand. Dege is the real deal, his songs combine elements of folk, blues, pop, and psychedelia...ultimately resulting in his own unique brand of what Southern music can and should be in 2018. The artwork and packaging on this one are stunning. The triple fold digipak sleeve features some killer photography, and a lyric booklet is included so you can follow along. This guy's slide guitar playing is totally outasite. Eleven pensive tracks including "Partial to the Bitters," Country Come To Town," "The Moon & The Scarecrow," and "Whiteboy."

Cabin Dogs - Mountain Sun (CD, Crippled Hound, Folky pop)
Cabin Dogs is twin brothers Rich Kwait and Rob Kwait. The two started toying around with music back in 1982 and then eventually began recording their song snippets and ideas. They released their first couple of albums under the name Kwait Brothers Band. By the time they had released their Electric Cabin album in 2005, the name had changed to Cabin Dogs. These days they're recording their albums in their own home studio in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Mountain Sun is a collection of country and folk tinged pop with an overall laidback vibe. There's a whole lot of material here as the Kwaits present sixteen songs that clock in at well over seventy one minutes (!). The brothers are backed by Ron DiSilvestro (drums), John Stenger (piano, organ, synthesizer), Isaac Stanford (pedal steel, dobro), Ira Race (guitar on two tracks), and Heather Messe (violin on two tracks). These songs could be described as Americana or mid-tempo pop or alternative country. In our opinion, this is ultimately feelgood pop because these tracks are easy on the ears and brain. Cool reflective compositions include "Ways To Go," "On The Road," "Blame It On the Rain," "Higher Than the Mountain," and "Love Is a Terrible Thing."

The Cleveland Steamers - Best Record Ever (CD, Smog Veil, Rock/pop)
The Cleveland Steamers are Meredith Rutledge-Borger (vocals), Cheese Borger (bass, vocals), Nick Summa (guitar), James. R. McWilliam (drums), and Ryan Foltz (various instruments). Best Record Ever is a big bouncing ball of wild energy. We knew these folks had an interesting sense of humor when we read the following line on the back of the album: "We would like to thank Ray Charles, but he's dead." Add to that the fact that there are interesting photos and one song is called "My Asshole Cousin" and... Ha-haaaaaaaaaa...! So many twenty-first century bands seem to lack a sense of humor. Accordingly, Best Record is a like a nice refreshing mental splash. The tracks are basic garage rock mixed with buzzsaw tendencies. This band's third album will appeal to a wide range of fans who appreciate the sounds of the real underground. Cool rockin' cuts include "See You Tonight," "Never Saw You Again," "Hung Up On You," and "Shut Up!" Love the front cover...a photo of a 1960s psychedelic album tote. Yeeee-haw!

The Complaints - Talk To Me (CD, CompRecords, Pop)
Listening to this album, we would never in a million years guess that the guys in The Complaints have been making music for almost twenty years (?!). Surprisingly, this is only their fourth full-length release. The good news is that...it's a keeper. The songs on Talk To Me have an ultimately fresh and inviting sound that recalls some of our top favorite guitar pop bands of all time including Fountains of Wayne and The Shoes. These impeccably recorded tracks were created with the band's longtime producer Phil Greene. Phil gives the band a nice warm sound and the songs never come across sounding too glossy or overproduced. The group is comprised of Dean Petrella (guitar, vocals), Chris Cruz (bass), and Anthony Marotti (drums). This is a short album that clocks in at just over half an hour. But in the world of pop music quality is definitely far more important than quantity. And on this album you get nine quality songs, with each offering something uniquely entertaining and credible. Excellent melodies and the vocals are...outstanding (gotta love those exacting harmonies). The arrangements are simple, providing only the essential ingredients necessary in order to give the songs a nice full sound. To top it all off, the disc is housed in a cool triple foldout digipak sleeve complete with lyrics. Kickass tracks include "Hangin' Out," "Atlas (Carry You)," "Talk To Me," "Breathe," and "Home." Highly recommended for pop fans worldwide. TOP PICK.

Laurent Perez Del Mar - I Kill Giants: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (CD, Varese Sarabande, Soundtrack)
Brilliant and engaging instrumentals created for the motion picture I Kill Giants. The movie itself seems to be getting mixed reviews, but...as usual...we haven't seen or read reviews of the soundtrack. Laurent Perez Del Mar has created some truly captivating and unusual music for Giants. These tracks are subdued, moody, and threaded with subtle hints of the unusual. Up to this point in time, Laurent is best known for scoring the music to the feature film The Red Turtle. This soundtrack is bound to boost this talented composer's career even further up the ladder. The attention to detail here is impressive. Del Mar uses subtlety to the max, adding just the right intricate audio elements into each track to make them sound strangely magical. As is the case with all releases on the Varese Sarabande label, the sound quality is superb. These seventeen tracks utilize sounds from classical music as well as what might best be described as world music. Laurent doesn't clobber you over the head with volume and walls of sound, instead relying on a rather open overall sound that is somewhat unconventional...but ultimately very real and appealing. Seventeen tracks executed to perfection. Our favorites include "Gift of Gold," "Giants," "Fight the Forest Giant," and "Thousand Times."

Eureka California - Roadrunners (CD, Happy Happy Birthday To Me, Rock/hard pop)
The fourth full-length release from Athens, Georgia-based band Eureka California. Recorded at Suburban Home Studios in Leeds, UK, Roadrunners just might be the most gripping and focused batch of tunes yet from this cool, hard-hitting duo. The group treads in territory that strikes a perfect balance where power pop and hardcore garage rock meet. Underground music fans are gonna go nuts over this one. At a point in time when so many bands lack energy and volume, Eureka California absolutely blows the roof off. Instead of simply playing some nice new songs for their fans, band members Jake Ward and Marie A. Uhler load up and deliver these tracks like they're bullets coming out of machine guns. So if tame and safe is your kinda thing, this is probably not going to be the right band for you. This is the most well-produced Eureka California album to date. Although the loudness and intensity remain completely intact, the audio assault is captured in such a way that the songs are extremely listenable and even friendly at times. This is bound to end up being one of the most riveting loud pop/rock albums of 2018. Yes folks, it really is that good. This spring and summer we'll be spinning tracks like "MKUltra," "Threads," "Howard Hughes at the Sands," and "Mexican Coke" totally into the ground. In case we haven't yet made our point...WE LOVE THIS ALBUM. Highly recommended. TOP PICK.

Laurent Eyquem - Nostalgia: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (CD, Varese Sarabande, Soundtrack)
Nostalgia features a collection of stories about love and loss, pieced together to form a whole. Directed by Mark Pellington, the motion picture has so far been met with conflicting opinions and reviews. Does that matter? Not really...because here we're only dealing with the music...because music is what matters most (heh heh heh). Actually in this case it can. Because even though the motion picture might not be everyone's favorite, the soundtrack very well could be. These subtle, reflective instrumentals could easily set the mood for an interesting evening of contemplation or meaningful communication. This album is a far cry from the average twenty-first century soundtrack. You won't hear large orchestras blaring at full volume. You won't hear unstoppable frenzied intensity. Overall, you won't hear too much stuff happening all at once...which is what most of us are accustomed to hearing in music made for modern television and motion pictures. Laurent Eyquem has created music that will have a calming effect on most listeners. Even meditative in many ways. These tracks flow by like a river on a beautiful afternoon. The piano playing is particularly beautiful, and it is accentuated by some precisely arranged strings. Some of these tracks recall Brian Eno at times because the emphasis seems to be more on tones and sound than on the actual notes being played. Expertly crafted tracks include "A Life in Pictures," "Ready to Say Goodbye," and "Moving On." Strangely hypnotic...and ultimately very rewarding. Recommended. Top pick.

Fine China - Not Thrilled (12" vinyl LP & CD, Velvet Blue Music, Pop)
We were nuts about this band's music many years ago. Like a lot of music fans, we were drawn into Fine China's dreamy pop that put us in a trance-like state of mind. But like so many bands, after putting out several excellent releases that were supported by a somewhat limited fan base...the guys in the band decided to throw in the towel. Much to the dismay of their fans, the group went into hibernation. But their music and influence lived on, and their songs continued to be enjoyed and appreciated by lots of folks. But 2016 saw a warmly received reissue of the band's Jaws album on vinyl, which coincided with a ten year reunion show and...kapow...Fine China was back. Now, almost twenty years after their first release, the band presents a brand new album. Not surprisingly, Not Thrilled was created from the same artistic fabric as previous releases. These guys' music has always reminded us in some ways of babysue favorite Starflyer 59 and that comparison still holds true. We're also occasionally reminded of The Wedding Present this time around. The band is comprised of Rob Withem, Thom Walsh, and Greg Markov. We can't help but think that the second phase of these guys' career will be even more rewarding and profitable. They're certainly getting support from critics and informed music fans. Ten lovely tracks here that flow by like clouds in the sky. Wonderfully entertaining cerebral pop cuts include "Anybody Else," "Miles Out," "Feel Not," and "Can We Forget About the Nightmare." Sure is glad to have these guys back doing what they do best. Recommended. Top pick.

Floppy Toppers - Floppy Toppers With Boppers (Lumpizoid)
Pry double thing. Pry triple thing. Single thing give stress doll for penny paying parent. Her makey tune daytime, her makey day tunetime. Force of null for dam to meet prissy blight. Hacky doo. Dumpy witch. Howdy do the pumpy switch. You like spicy noodle? How spicy you like? Take this Floppy Toppers. They not take, they give thing. But what is thing? Thing is nesty sting on winter brillo. Go low for break of lilly. The lilly mush rolls right with monkey. Count monkey. When total resolve, count gorilla. Place technology in trash and dispose of. Take all thing of possession and dispose of. Floppy Toppers release thing somewhere in 2018. Thing not making noise and thing not steaming powder. Fussy bunch get rally wingdom. Hockey hockey hockey. Tandem rolo shackter smack. Grip for pie shape that lever produce. Flush fishes to dome pardon. Deliver us from liver. Lie like shrimp. Crimp the pond crumple. Down the balloon wrangle. Stomp the stomp. Rip the ripper. Damn the smush. Elf the gliver.

The Funky Dedd Peepuz - Dizzy Clumps of Dozy Marue (Doily Tins)
For all the fours in the deeds have jam. For all the jam in needles, pins wash at the camper tops. Here is The Funky Dedd Peepuz. They toil and perpetuate. They rattle and circumnavigate. On Dizzy Clumps of Dozy Marue, they pay tribute to something for a few minutes. Here and there, there and here. This damn thing don't work. If it work, don't fix the work. You can look up and you can look down. You can do nothing and make it your gown. Just make it a real nice gown that everyone will compliment. Isn't it nice when everyone notices the pretty dress you're wearing? Kinda validates you in ways that nothing else could or will. Your clothes determine what you is. And you is determined by what is your clothes. Take the damper and put it in place. Drive away fast because fashion is pace. Do it now or don't do it never. Ram it back up and cram it in place.

Robin George - Rogue Angels (CD, Angel Air, Pop/rock)
Brand new album from legendary singer-songwriter/guitarist Robin George. Rogue Angels is yet another explosive blast of rockin' tracks from this ultra talented fellow. Listening to these songs, you'd never ever guess that George has been making music for as long as he has. You'd also never guess that he plays all the instruments on this album except for drums (courtesy of master percussionist Charlie Morgan). Rather than sounding like a collection of one man band recordings, these tracks have all the intense energy of a full band playing live. If you love guitars, you're almost certain to love the sound of these recordings. Built upon solid rhythms and thick bass lines, these tracks are driven by some totally killer electric guitar riffs. This guy's one of the best players out there. We won't drop names here, but search for Robin's name on the internet and you'll be amazed at some of the folks he's played with over the years. As if all of this wasn't enough, Robin's vocals are absolutely the best. We've liked this man's previous releases, but in our opinion Rogue Angels tops 'em all. This is one of those cases where a musician hits his prime at a later point in his career. Instead of burning out or fading away, George's music seems to become more energized and magnetic. We can't imagine any fan of real rock music not having an immediate attraction to cuts like "Wild Eyed Beauty Queen," "Rush," "Red Out" "Surreal Dream," and "Love Is Blind." Featuring some of the best rockin' tracks we've heard in 2018, Rogue Angels is a solid and direct HIT. Highly recommended. TOP PICK.

Holly Golightly and The Brokeoffs - Clippety Clop (CD, Transdreamer, Roots/pop)
A return to form. Much to the delight of many, Holly Golightly and The Brokeoffs return to the world of recording with this, their tenth full-length release (and that's not counting Holly's solo albums). As the title suggests, this album is a collection of compositions centered around horses. She's been around these animals practically all of her life, so Clippety Clop certainly seems appropriate. The band (The Brokeoffs) is really Golightly's longtime musical partner Lawyer Dave. The press release that accompanied this album sums up the sound best by describing it as "Americana filtered through British punk." We'd also toss out the term 'foot stompin' music' to describe the overall sound and feel of these tracks. Holly and Dave somehow manage to capture the spirit of folks whooping it up and hollerin' on their front porch in the days of old. But the idea and sound are notched up and given a breath of fresh air. These two artists spent about two years recording these tracks. Clop will be immediately embraced by Holly's fans as well as just about anyone else who loves cool and credible Americana/alternative country. Twelve focused cuts including "Mule Skinner," "Two White Horses," "I Ride An Old Paint," and "Strawberry Roan."

Dave Greenslade - Cactus Choir (CD, Angel Air, Progressive rock)
We've said it before but it bears repeating. Greenslade was one of the great British progressive rock bands of the 1970s. But for some reason the group never seems to be mentioned in the same circles who continually reference more well-known and commercially successful artists like Yes, King Crimson, and Genesis. Sadly, Greenslade disbanded in 1975 before they were able to be heard by a larger audience. But by that time bandleader Dave Greenslade had already composed enough material for a new album. So he pulled together other musicians who helped him record the material on Cactus Choir. This is a case where the music sounds exactly like what it is. There are certainly some very familiar elements that immediately recall earlier Greenslade albums (most notably those wonderful keyboard sounds). But with different artists backing Dave, as you might expect...the overall sound is more spacious and varied. Artists lending their talents on this album include Tony Reeves, Simon Phillips, Steve Gould, Dave Markee, Mick Graham, John Perry, and Bill Jackman. Plus the orchestra on "Finale" was conducted by Martin Ford and arranged by Simon Jeffes. These tracks have held up exceedingly well over time, and the sound quality is excellent. This is highly recommended for anyone into 1970s progressive rock...or anyone who enjoys progressive music in general. Although it was a favorite among critics, this album unfortunately fell through the cracks when it was first released because the band had broken up and it was released under Dave's name. Wonderfully melodic cuts include "Pedro's Party," "Gettysburg," "Forever and Ever," "Cactus Choir," and "Country Dance." Also includes the bonus track "Gangsters" (the theme for the BBC TV series). Recommended. Top pick.

Hamish Hawk & The New Outfit - From Zero To One (CD, EPIFO, Pop)
Impressive new album from Scotland's musical chameleon Hamish Hawk. Listening to this album, we were initially reminded of The Chainsaw Kittens. But then other songs started reminding us of The Wedding Present. And still other musical segments seemed to recall artists like Morrissey and Leonard Cohen (?!). If you're looking for a musical artist who can be easily pigeonholed, Hawk may not be the most suitable musician for you. But if you appreciate people who can switch around from one genre and style to another effortlessly and with style well then...you just might find yourself falling in love with Hawk's intelligent compositions. His name may not be familiar to most...yet. But anyone at this level of crafting songs is bound to become legendary over time. In addition to creating songs that cross reference styles, Hawk has a voice that's really appealing and unusual. Unlike so many twenty-first century vocalists who all sound like generic carbon copies of one another, this guy's voice stands out because he is exceedingly expressive. From Zero To One might just be the album that pushes Hamish's career up to the next level. These ten tracks are mature and smart...and ultimately memorable. Our favorites include "Nomad," "Blueprints" (particularly nice), "(What A) Horrible Weekend," and "From Zero To One."

Adrian Johnston - The Strangers: Prey at Night (CD, Varese Sarabande, Soundtrack)
We're big fans of horror motion pictures. Even when they're kinda cheesy and even silly, there's something about most of these movies that is usually appealing. And in many cases...kinda humorous. The Strangers: Prey at Night is one of those that probably isn't the best viewing experience in the world. But from what we've seen and read, it sounds like it's probably a fun ride just the same. The basic story is as follows. Family goes on road trip. Family enters secluded trailer park. Family is terrorized by three masked crazies. So depending on what you're looking for, you might find this frightening and disturbing...or good for a few loose chuckles. The music was created by Great Britain's Adrian Johnston who has composed music for a wide array of motion pictures and television shows. If the idea was to create a feeling of suspense and unease, then this album is a resounding success. The album begins with the coy and slightly annoying song "Kids in America" by Kim Wilde (barf)...before quickly sliding into much more cerebral and unusual territory. One thing that makes this album very different from most is that there a few annoying hit songs from the past scattered among Johnston's instrumentals. It all adds up to a somewhat schizophrenic vibe that is probably a perfect fit for the motion picture. While you're tortured with tracks from artists like Mental As Anything, Bonnie Tyler, Air Supply, and Wilde...you're also continually thrown into Adrian's intoxicatingly strange and cool world of soundtrack music. There are some truly eerie tracks here that probably add just the right edge to the visuals in the movie. Our favorite compositions include "The Strangers Prey at Night," "But We've Just Started," "Pulled to Safety," and "Inferno."

Keats - Radio Sounds (Independently released CD, Pop)
If there ever was a CD with a title that is a perfect match for the music, this is it. Tony Keats has come up with an album that sounds exactly like a non-stop stream of songs that you might hear on the radio. And in a world where so many are trying so hard to be so uniquely different, the idea is appealing and inviting. Now that Keats seems to have landed in the appropriate geographic spot for his music (Nashville), it's probably only a matter of time before one or more of this talented fellow's tunes catch on in a big way. True to the claim of the press release that accompanied this album, these tracks may remind listeners of classic artists like The Band and Leon Russell. We would also include Elvis Costello in the list of similar sounding artists. Radio Sounds was produced by Dave Coleman and Keats himself. These tracks have a nice slick sound without ever coming across seeming overproduced. Backing Tony on these tracks are Brian Pitts (bass, vocals), Kyle Walsh (drums, vocals), Brian Rogers (pedal steel), Don Eanes (piano, organ, clavinet), and Dave Coleman (guitar, percussion). If you like music that's instantly familiar and hummable, there's a good chance you will fall in love with these tracks. Keats has the perfect voice for the type of songs that he writes. If this album can get into the right folks' hands, the sky's the limit. Friendly feelgood cuts include "Radio Sounds," "Love and Affection," "The Only Way I Know How" (a truly beautiful composition, our favorite), and "The Dream."

LegoHeads - The Space Between (Independently released CD-R, Pop)
The band's second full-length release. LegoHeads is the Vancouver, Canada-based one man ambient pop band created by Landon Trimble. This fellow's career got off on a somewhat rocky start. Trimble recorded the debut LegoHeads album (Songs For Water) while recovering from temporary nerve damage, which meant that the bulk of the material was created using programmed electronics. The album did incredibly well, scoring big time with many folks whose opinions matter. Now comes The Space Between. We're pleased to report that Landon can once again play traditional instruments. As such, this album builds upon ideas that were presented on the debut...presenting them in a more fully realized overall fashion. These songs perfectly balance on that thin line that separates electronics from classic pop. Landon's got a really cool smooth voice that merges perfectly with his arrangements. His songs have inviting flowing qualities that put the listener at ease. And while the overall sound is strangely familiar, there are also curious qualities that give these songs a unique sound. What is perhaps most interesting here is that these songs have a great deal of potential commercial appeal. Yes, the sounds and ideas are mainly artsy. But everything is presented in a somewhat traditional format which means that most listeners will be able to identify with what Trimble is doing. We're guessing this album will be even more successful than the last. Intriguing stuff with serene mental qualities.

 

MAGAZINES R.I.P.

Magazines are
Dead.

 

Marbin - Israeli Jazz (Independently released CD, Progressive/jazz/rock)
More strikingly fluid progressive jazz/rock from Marbin. These guys continue to impress and amaze because--unlike so many other twenty-first century bands who rely on gimmicks and technology to create their sound--these guys rely entirely on their skills and talent as musicians. And man oh man can they play (!). We saw these fellows play live a few years ago and we can honestly say there are few bands who can compete with their level of dexterity, power, and speed. Marbin is comprised of Dani Rabin on guitar, Danny Markovitch on saxophone, Blake Jiracek on drums, and Jon Nadel on bass. Israeli Jazz is the band's latest self-released full-length album. It's yet another super solid addition to their catalog. Listening to these heady compositions, we're once again reminded of the non-stop array of ultra-talented musicians utilized by Frank Zappa over the course of his lengthy career. So if you enjoy the jazzy instrumental side of Zappa, you're almost certain to dig this stuff. Jiracek and Nadel provide a rock solid foundation which allows Rabin and Markovitch to skip and slide all over the place with their instruments. These guys are absolutely top notch musicians. Marbin music is always a fun ride with unexpected thrills and musical passages that will blow the minds of even the most seasoned listeners. Seven cool tracks here including "The Old Ways," "Arkansas Jumper," "Pirate Punch," and "Israeli Jazz." Top pick.

Guerino Mazzola & Alex Lubet - Deep State (CD, pfMENTUM, Improvisation)
Improvisational music almost always receives uniquely different responses from individuals. Some love it, while others claim that it isn't really music because of the absence of things they demand like repeating melodies and a state of advance composition. Our opinion is that...sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. And what many don't realize is that there's a big difference between good improvisation and bad improvisation. Guerino Mazzola and Alex Lubet have been playing music together now for about ten years...and it shows. If you've ever heard animals communicating through the sounds that they make, you will have some idea of what to expect on Deep State. Without ever speaking or uttering a lyric, Mazzola and Lubet manage to communicate using only musical instruments. Years of playing together have resulted in some amazingly keen intuition. We can't remember when we've heard a grand piano merge so effortlessly with guitar, ukulele, steel guitar, and dulcimer. Utilizing the impressive technical expertise of Steve Barnett and Preston Smith, this album presents music that is ultimately intelligent, challenging, somewhat peculiar, and unpredictable. Strikingly original and effective, these tracks showcase the talents of two men who are obviously driven more by the desire to create than the desire to make money. Thirteen provocative cuts including "Life," "Perfect Union," "Kaddish," and "The Power to Enforce."

Tami Neilson - Sassafrass! (CD, Outside Music, Pop/soul)
Boasting an extremely gripping sound and image, Tami Neilson seems to be on the short path to success. So often with twenty-first century artists, the weakest link is...the voice. That is definitely not the case here. Neilson has a knockout voice and intense presence. And both are impossible to ignore. Born in Canada but now residing in New Zealand, this exotic young lady is providing exactly what listeners want and need...cool hummable music that provides the perfect escape from the world around us. Many of the tracks on Sassafrass! have an overall retrospective sound and feel, but everything has been updated to appeal to twenty-first century music fans. If you want to get a quick idea of who Neilson is and what she's all about, pull up any of her videos on the internet...and prepare to be amazed. Tami sure can belt out a tune. But interestingly, our immediate favorite here is the more subdued "Manitoba Sunrise at Motel 6" which recalls the fabulous vocal talents of the legendary Patsy Cline. After hearing this particular track, we can't help but wonder if Neilson might be wise to follow Cline's footsteps by focusing more on ballads and love songs (?). She's sure got the voice for it. You're going to be hearing Tami's name a lot in the years to come. Get in on the ground floor and discover something truly entertaining. Killer cuts include "Stay Outta My Business," "A Woman's Pain," "Smoking Gun," and "Good Man." Top pick.

Shuggie Otis - Inter-Fusion (CD, Cleopatra, Guitar/instrumental)
An album whose time has come. Widely known for his soul songs and soothing voice, Shuggie Otis takes off in a new direction. Inter-Fusion is an album of (mostly) guitar instrumentals, shedding light on what many have known for years. Otis is one fantastic guitarist. And he's backed by some incredible musicians. Playing with Shuggie on these tracks are Tony Franklin on bass, Kyle Hamood on keyboards (who also acts as producer), and Carmine Appice on drums. These tracks combine elements from jazz and progressive rock. And they're played with such fluid focus that you can't help but be drawn into the music. You can hear various elements entering the mix from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and the 1990s... right on into the twenty-first century. The sound quality is excellent throughout, with a nice big warm sound that should please all the vinyl fanatics out there. Speaking of...Inter-Fusion is available on vinyl as well as CD and all digital formats. If you love grooves and electric guitar, there's no doubt you'll be drawn into these tracks. Eight heady compositions including "Aphelion," "Get a Grip," "Ice Cold Daydream," "Sweet Surrender," and "Clear Power."

Peach Kelli Pop - Gentle Leader (CD, Mint, Pop), Which Witch (CD-R EP, Mint, Pop)
We love the band name (always one of our favorite Redd Kross songs). But, more importantly, we love love LOVE this band...!!! The girls in Peach Kelli Pop have all the elements we continually yearn for in a perfect pop band. They've got great songs that are short and to-the-point. And the vocals are absolutely heavenly. Everything is presented simply and directly, so that no annoying outside variables get in the way. Gentle Leader is a perfect album, presenting ten ultra catchy tracks in just over twenty-three minutes. And Which Witch is a perfect EP. In less than seven minutes (!) this disc makes more of an impression than many bands make in their entire careers. Yes indeed folks, the music really is that good. These tracks remind us a great deal of one of our favorite underrated bands from the 1990s...Fuzzy. Like Fuzzy, this band's music is driven by cool guitar riffs and simple danceable rhythms. Play this music...and you'll instantly feel as if there's magic in the air. Not a lot more to say here, except that...after hearing these two discs...Peach Kelli Pop is one of our TOP FAVORITE bands out there. Killer tracks include "Hello Kitty Knife," "Honey," "King Size," "Cherry (That's Not Her Real Name)," "Pitch Black," "Shine," Los Angeles," and "Drug Stores Symbol of Happiness." Highly recommended. TOP PICK.

Phosphenes - Find Us Where We're Hiding (CD, Fayz, Dream pop)
Sometimes all the pieces fit. In this case, the band name, the album art, and the music all fit together perfectly to form a cohesive whole. Searching around on the internet to find some biographical information, we were confused when we realized that there are apparently two bands in the United States called Phosphenes...one in Pennsylvania and one in Texas. This is neither, but rather a third band using the name that is based in Germany. Hopefully all of these musicians will determine who was using the name first and the others will change their names to avoid confusion on all kinds of different levels. But back to the music at hand... Find Us Where We're Hiding is a collection of dreamy pop songs with with an emphasis on cool technological sounds and refreshing female vocals. This is kinda like a world where progressive meets dream pop. Despite the fact that much of this music was created with modern studio technology, the overall sound is surprisingly organic and warm. Phosphenes is the duo of Julee Bee and Harry Starbuck. Harry recorded, mixed, and produced the album. The triple foldout sleeve features some fantastic photography courtesy of Julia Beyer. A totally cool package with dreamy music that'll put you in a serene state of consciousness. Eleven tracks including "Girls Trip," "Heaven Looks Alright," "Galaxy Jump," and "One Trick Pony."

Jeff Plankenhorn - Sleeping Dogs (CD, Spike Steel, Pop)
Sleeping Dogs is a totally friendly and uplifting audio experience. If the title track on this album doesn't become a smash hit, we'll be very surprised. The song is exceedingly catchy and instantly addictive. Jeff Plankenhorn is considered by many to be one of the best guitarists that Austin, Texas has to offer. So it may come as a surprise to many that the main focus of these solo recordings is songs. Rather than using his time in the spotlight as a platform for showing off, Plankenhorn instead chooses to focus on the substance of the material. Sure, there are plenty of his juicy guitar licks and riffs running through these tracks (plus his skills on other instruments like pedal steel, piano, upright bass, and more). But the main focus is indeed songs. Dogs features eleven original tracks, with about half being co-written by some of Jeff's notable musical connections. Songs range from pop to blues rock to folk and back again. The follow up to Plankenstein's well-received 2016 studio album (SoulSlide), our guess is that Dogs will be the one that will generate the most success for this talented individual. Some incredible folks play on this album but rather than drop names, we'll let you discover those yourself. Eleven well-crafted tracks arranged to perfection. Favorites include "Sleeping Dogs," "Tooth and Nail," "Never Again," "This Guitar," and "Heaven On Earth."

Round About - Coming Into Focus (Independently released CD-R, Pop)
Bands like Round About are a good example of why we continue to write about music. After all, if we weren't in the loop receiving stuff for review...there's a good chance that underground groups like Round About might never enter our consciousness. The band is the Washington, D.C.-based quartet comprised of Patrick Garrity, Aaron Lowenberger, Dave Mehring, and Paul Nicholas...along with Mark Bower playing piano and organ on some tracks. Coming Into Focus is the third Round About release and it features more of the same superb guitar pop tunes that made us fall in love with the band's music years ago. There's a bit more variety on this album than the previous two, which is to be expected after recording two pure pop albums. On this album the band hits the target dead center when they do what they do best, which is playing straightforward guitar pop. And when they hit the target, man oh man do things sound killer. Garrity's songs and vocals once again remind us a great deal of two of our favorite pop bands: The Shoes and Game Theory. So if you're a fan of either, you'll dig this stuff. Housed in a very simple and slick digipak sleeve, the album includes a lyric booklet so you can read or sing along. All of the live shows and recordings over the years have resulted in a band that is tight, tight, tight. One of the things we like best about this group is that in most instances playing is kept to a minimum. You won't hear a lot of solos and musicians with their egos in overdrive. Nicholas plays drums in the most basic style (a la Ringo Starr). Mehring's bass lines are solid, direct, and minimalistic. Lowenberger's guitar is stylized and tasteful. And Garrity's voice provides the perfect focal point. Our favorite tracks include "Chasing Sublime," "You're My Favorite," "It's All Right There," and "Wave To Me."

Tom Rush - Voices (CD, Appleseed Recordings, Folk/pop)
How many musical artists can you think of who are still making music in their late seventies? The answer is probably...not many. So that puts Tom Rush is yet another unique position at this point in his career. Voices is also a first for Rush. After all these years, this is his first album featuring all of his own original songs (with the exception of two traditionals). Considering the fact that he's been known as a man who mainly presents his interpretations of songs written by others, this approach is certain to surprise many fans. After all, on Rush's other albums combined there are only about 20 originals to be found total. Tom has found an appropriate home on the Appleseed Recordings label. The folks at this cool Pennsylvania-based music label offer new releases by a whole slew of classic artists whose voices remain relevant in 2018. Voices may represent a new beginning for Tom. After spinning this, we can't help but think this influential fellow will be recording and releasing more of his own originals in the years to come. And why not? His own songs will no doubt please his fans, and also probably all of those other artists he's covered for decades. These classy tracks combine elements of folk, pop, and bluegrass...and offer unique insight into the mind of a man who has affected so many with his music. The album is housed in an exquisitely-designed triple foldout cardboard sleeve, complete with lyric booklet. Rush is looking and sounding great in 2018. Warm and inviting compositions include "Come See About Me," "Cold River," "If I Never Get Back to Hackensack," and "Voices."

Sicks Times - Sicksty Sumpin (Gifterly Waffer)
Sicks times three is threety. Sicks time five is sicksty leven. Sicks times eight is sicksty twinny. Sicks times sicks is semty sicks. Sicks times fiffy is sicksty free. Sicks times free hunnerd is semm hunnerd sicksty. Dass awe. No mo fo ya now.

 

SNORE MORE

Those who
Snore more
Will snore
Less.

 

Garth Stevenson - Chappaquiddick: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (CD, Varese Sarabande, Soundtrack)
This motion picture presents the story of events surrounding the day that Ted Kennedy drove his car off a bridge on Chappaquiddick Island. Composer/recording artist Garth Stevenson has created a true audio masterpiece that serves as the soundtrack. Although there are no set rules about what a true life story soundtrack should sound like, this one nonetheless seems to be coming from a very different direction. Using lots of minor chords and unusual melodic twists, Stevenson manages to come up with tracks that are strange, ethereal, and often ominous. The music on Garth's solo albums has been compared to folks like Brian Eno and Sigur Ros. These same comparisons hold true here, as these tracks are odd but calming...and they contain a wealth of strange sounds trickling into the mix. This soundtrack perfectly merges the conventional with the unconventional. Although many of the sounds used will be instantly familiar to most listeners, some of the stuff happening in the background most certainly is not. One thing is certain. Whether you see the motion picture or not, if you like unusual instrumental music with a twist...you're almost certain to fall in love with this music. The more we spin this album, the more inviting and intoxicating the music becomes. Stevenson is one of those guys whose music we will be seeking out. He's smart. He's inventive. And his music is ultimately inspired and breathtaking. Killer tracks include "In His Shadow," "Drown," "She's Already Dead," and "Bridge." Highly recommended. TOP PICK.

Gene Turonis - All The Pretty Girls (CD, Bar/None, Pop)
Up to this point in time, Gene Turonis seems to be mainly known as Hoboken, New Jersey's plumber who also plays music. But if the songs on All The Pretty Girls are any indication of where Turonis is heading, he may soon be known as the singer/songwriter who once was a plumber. Thanks to the fine folks at Bar/None, Gene's recordings will now be heard by a much larger audience. He self-released a couple of albums, but this will be the first to be distributed internationally. With so much focus on Americana and country pop in the twenty-first century, this may very well be one of those cases where the timing is just right. Presenting a mix of originals and covers, Girls succeeds mainly because of Gene's voice and overall presence in the mix. Pull up a video of Turonis playing live and you'll immediately see that this man can work magic on an audience. That would be impressive at any age but at 72 well, that really puts this talented fellow in a class all his own. Gene's songs combine elements from folk, pop, blues, and country. But the delivery is what most folks will remember about this man's music. With some folks, their personality seems to bleed into the recording...and this is definitely one of those cases. Twelve well-executed tracks here including "All The Pretty Girls," "I Like It Like That," "Been A Fool All My Life," and "A Breeze Blows Through the Palm Tree."

This Wilderness - Sorry About Tomorrow (CD, Wax & Wane, Electronic pop)
This Wilderness is the trio comprised of Robert O. Leaver (lyrics, vocals, music), Jim Coleman (music, production, art), and Phil Puleo (additional instruments). Sorry About Tomorrow is an interesting album in that it presents electronic pop that is far more subdued that what is normally heard in 2018. These musicians write and record music that harkens back to the early days of electronic pop when artists like John Foxx and Gary Numan were treading entirely new ground. But the overall tone is darker...with sounds and ideas that remind us in many ways of Joy Division, but with more of an overall dub sound and feel. Three three fellows are no newcomers to the world of music. Leaver had previously been recording acoustic music under the name Birdthrower. Coleman and Puleo were both members of the influential 1990s band Cop Shoot Cop (we were big fans). Coleman has also released music under his own name as well as Phylr, Here, and J-CO. Tomorrow is an impressive debut, and sets the stage for what is probably going to be an interesting musical venture. This is out of line with what most folks are accustomed to hearing at this point in time. We're hoping there are enough open-minded folks out there to support This Wilderness. The music is inventive and unique...and unusually thought provoking. Groovy cuts include "Full Time Woman," "Almost X," "My Medication," and "D.O.G."

Mike Uva - Lights Coming Up (CD-R, Collectible Escalators, Pop)
Inspired and real. At a point in time when so many musicians rely on an image, gimmicks, and technology, Lights Coming Up immediately stands out from other albums. Although this doesn't really sound like pop music, we're placing it in that category because we don't know where else it would fit (?). These songs are really more like personal statements and thoughtful communications. Mike Uva's lyrics are ultimately very inspired. Listening to this, we get the impression that the main point here was to simply create credible songs. Instruments and arrangements are kept to a minimum, which allows you to concentrate on the substance that is inherent in each track. What's probably most surprising is how much commercial potential this guy has. Even though we get the impression he's not trying to write music to make money, many of Mike's songs have the same kind of cerebral long-lasting appeal as songs by other classic artists like Tom Waits, Ben Folds, and Leonard Cohen. But without sounding very much like any of these artists, this fellow manages to recall the same kind of feelings and sensations in the mind of the listener. If you're tired of too many artists who sound the same and have nothing real to offer, you might just get a major kick out of Lights Coming Up. Intriguing compositions include "Waco," "Have You Ever Walked Lone," "I Think I Wanna Die," and "When It Comes To Be." Solid and substantial stuff. Top pick.

Visceral Candy - Does Everything (Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
This Seattle, Washington-based band is making music that is decidedly out-of-synch with what's currently happening out there in the world of commercial music. And considering what's currently happening out there in the world of commercial music...that is a very good thing. [Commercial music...she eeze NOT sounding so goot een 2018, no...?] The folks in Visceral Candy present their unique perspectives on Does Everything with integrity and style. These tracks have a sound and skewed sense of humor that sometimes reminds us of other artists like Frank Zappa, and early Todd Rundgren...as well as The Drool Brothers. This is a short album that makes its mark in just under thirty-four minutes. These songs are smart and intuitive, effectively combining elements from progressive and pop. Some sound like underground or alternative hits...while others are a bit stranger and further removed. Produced by Jay Battle, these cuts have a nice thick sound that utilizes technology without relying upon it. Listeners are bound to get a charge out of cool and sassy tracks like "Doot Doot," "DangeRuss," "Hold On or Run," and "She Don't Like It/Seconds Bleeding Through." Admiration abounds for those artists and bands who aren't following current twenty-first century trends. This stuff will make you think.

Steve Wynn - Kerosene Man (CD, Omnivore Recordings, Pop), Dazzling Display (CD, Omnivore Recordings, Pop)
Reissues of the first two solo albums from Steve Wynn. Probably surprising everyone, a new album was recently released by The Dream Syndicate entitled How Did I Find Myself Here? The band is even out on the road this year in support of their first new album in almost 30 years. To coincide with these events, the folks at Ominivore Recordings have reissued Wynn's first two solo albums from the 1990s...Kerosene Man and Dazzling Display. In traditional Omnivore style, both albums have been remastered and feature a healthy smattering of additional bonus tracks, as well as deluxe lyric booklets with liner notes from Steve. When most bands split, things end with anger and hostility. But in the case of The Dream Syndicate, this was not the case. After playing with the band for years, Steve apparently just wanted to try something different. Both of these solo albums have held up well over time. The overall sound may remind listeners of many current artists out there on the horizon. Steve surrounded himself with some amazing talent to record these albums. Kerosene Man features the talents of Robert Mache, Robert Lloyd, Mark Walton, Kevin Jarvis, Julie Christensen, Johnette Napolitano, D.J. Bonebrake, Steve Berlin, and Mark Walton. On Dazzling Display Wynn is backed by a huge array of artists including Robert Mache, Louis Guiterrez, Jim Lang, Mark Walton, Denny Fongheiser, Chris Cacavas, Robert Lloyd, Russ Tolman, Eric Williams, Lee Thornburg, Greg Smith, Peter Buck, John Wesley Harding, Richard Greene, Melissa Hasin, Flo and Eddie, Vicki Peterson, Susan Cowsill, Christine Collister, Fernando Saunders, Janine Cooper, Kirk Swan, Kevin Jarvis, Chris Cacavas, Kim Bullard, Denise Sullivan, Molly Townson, Michael Dumas, and Birgaloux (whew!). So while all you folks out there are revisiting and discovering new music from The Dream Syndicate...you can also check out these stylish new reissues of Wynn's voyage into solo recording. These will no doubt be welcomed with open arms by music fans worldwide.

You Thar - Who Is (Pet Balcony)
You thar. Who you is? State who is, you thar. All you thar, state who ya'll is. Nuffin ever was and nuffin ever is. All that matter is who you is. Evuhthang be and evuhthang not. What you see ain't what you got. You thar done got wrote up here. That evidential of important. You rating on ramp now. Keep rating. Apology for keep rating. You stop rating now, you thar. Hay big stack father...who you is?

Youth In A Roman Field - Storm Conductor (Independently released CD, Pop)
Youth In A Roman Field is an unconventional new band lead by the songwriting skills of a creative young lady named Claire Wellin. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, the band is now based in New York City. Probably an appropriate location, as these tracks are likely to appeal to eclectic music fans that the big city can provide. The band's debut (Of Grit and Grace) was released in 2012 which was followed by the EP Suits for Children in 2014. This, the band's third release, was co-produced by Wellin and Grammy-award winner Stewart Leman. The press release effectively summed up the overall sound by calling it the "bastardized string quartet-meets folk band-meets jazz combo." That's pretty much it in a nutshell. If you're looking for standard radio pop, you won't find it here. Storm Conductor is chock full of intelligent artsy tracks that combine elements from several different genres. What impresses us most here are the lyrics. Claire's words are light years beyond what we normally hear in 2018. She's smart. She's analytical. And she's ultimately a very perceptive individual. She's also got a great voice that is a perfect match for the material she writes. The songs on this album are not predictable. Wellin's compositions come across more like stream-of-consciousness narratives than mere pop songs. And yet...the overall vibe is surprisingly smooth and relaxing. The more we hear this album, the better it sounds. Cool thought-provoking cuts include "Your Hand in Mine," "Solid Ground," "Slings in the Air," "I Saw You," and "When the City Goes Quiet." Recommended. Top pick.

Yung Wu - Shore Leave (CD, Bar/None, Pop/rock)
Long overdue reissue thanks to the fine folks at Bar/None. Hard to believe that after all these years this is the first time this album has been issued on CD (!?!). Yung Wu was a side project created by cult favorites The Feelies and was the beginning of a particularly prolific time in their career. The album bears many similarities to The Good Earth which makes sense, as the two albums were both released at about the same time. If you love The Feelies, chances are you'll love this album. If you're not familiar with The Feelies well then, you'll have a great time catching up on this unique band's output over the years. The tracks on Shore Leave have held up exceedingly well over time. And that's probably because the band used traditional instruments to make the music. And also because they weren't following any particular trends that were happening in music at that particular time. Yung Wu was comprised of Dave Weckerman, Stanley Demeski, Glenn Mercer, Bill Million, John Baumgartner, and Brenda Sauter. Ten inspired tracks here including "The Empty Pool," "Big Day" (our favorite), "Eternal Ice," "Return to Zion," and "Modern Farmer." Interestingly, the guys in The Feelies continue making music for their fans. Check out the band's web site (link above) for more information.

Sleepy Zuhoski - Better Haze (CD, Palo Santo, Pop)
Better Haze is an interesting and unusual album that instantly stands on its own. Combining well-written compositions with unorthodox sounds and arrangements, Sleepy Zuhoski manages to succeed on a multitude of different levels. This unique fellow was discovered playing in an open mic format by babysue favorite Salim Nourallah. Before we even read the press release, the overall sound of these tracks was reminding us very much of Salim's music. Considering the fact that Nourallah produced the album, it suddenly all made sense. This is one of those cases where the artist and producer were/are a perfect fit for one another. Although these twelve tracks can best be described as pop, the songs bear very little if any resemblance to what the average American is listening to in 2018. These cuts are a far cry from throwaway techno pop with no substance or meaning. What we have here instead are well-crafted intelligent songs that are thought provoking, puzzling, and strangely satisfying. Zuhoski has a cool understated style of singing that is similar to Salim. The tracks on Haze are threaded with strange dreamy sounds and instrumental subtleties that only become apparent with repeated listenings. These are the kind of tracks that will most certainly stand the test of time. Our favorites include "Asleep For a Year," "Almost Automatic," "Tsunami," "On A Cloud," and "Love You to Death." Recommended. TOP PICK.

Additional Items Received:

A
Academics for Pure Boredom - Slurps
Ryan Adams - Heartbreaker (deluxe edition)
Ryan Adams - Dustjacket (relaxed edition)
Additional Items Composed - Reversal of radishes
Additional Items Reversed - Back to the additional items
Adele - My frisky rat puppy done ate my head off
Alice Copper - Lob it to Seth
Allman Brothers - Crackdown concert 1986
Shirlette Ammons - Language barrier
Am Not - Am too
Anohni - Hopelessness
Anthrax - For all kings
Antlers for Booboo - Oh no not that tired old runt again
Ape - Don't say no words
Apples Got Smushy - Train smush
Application For Crap - Please submit crap
Athens Is Not A City - Trauma for the bush animals
August Wish - Traps for punted
Augusta Is Not A City - Wilma for the plush panels

B
Bad Bump - Banana tread
Badfigure - Crooked down
Bambi Dambi - Lambi
Ballerina Pumps - Blackass
Barge - Limpy
Beadulls - Desmocker
Beatles - Medium
Beatles - Medium rare
Beatles - Rare
Beatles - Not as rare
Beatles - Stuff that was never recorded
Beatles - Stuff that we wish had never been recorded
Bee Numb - Numb bee
Beyonce - Sorry
Beyonce - I can dance even if I can't do anything else very well
Beyonce - If all you want is an ugly body and face, I've got both
Beyonce - Don't you get tired of hearing my stupid name all the time
Beyonce - I'm really a boring old hag who looks terrible without thick layers of make-up
Beyonce - If I can dance good who cares what I can't do
Beyond the Beyonder - Blander and blander
Bjork - Vulnicura live
Black Tabitha - Pastor of senility
Blankets for Blankets - Laps
Blender in a Blinder - Fizzle
Bobo's Pretty Duster - Lamp off, lamp on
Davie Bowie - All the dumb dudes
Breezer the Flew - Like dazzlers in fume
Bumps Fifty - West
Butler Pudding - Lippity gris gris
Buzz's Lamp Cord - Tawny frink

C
Car Mump - Dazed and refused
Casket of Corformity - Laser dog
Cast of Cast - Lastly
Cat Grave - Mickey's laboratory
Cesula - Maid in martians
Chance The Rapper - Coloring book
Chicago - Love songs
Chump - Malaria
Chunks of Paisley Pumps - Lordy the snore is a plaza burn
Eric Clapton - I still do
Phil Collins - No jacket required
Sean Combs - How come I never get reviewed in babysue?
Sean Combs - You don't like me just because I'm arrogant and obnoxious, I get it
Sean Combs - Hey, I make a lot of money you underground jerks
Sean Combs - I'm rich, rich, RICH...ain't that what it's all about?
Sean Combs - Lookin' ugly every day o' my life
Come To Lulu's Nurse - Romp and the bumpy tum tum
Confederate Railroad - Happy to be alive
Conscious Or Not - Grumpy lazy
Crap You Like - Tape measure
Crosby, Stills & Nash - Survival Sunday
Crunchy Links - Switches and prawns
Miley Cyrus - How come I never get mentioned in babysue?
Miley Cyrus - I guess it's because nothing I do has any substance
Miley Cyrus - I like lots of attention
Miley Cyrus - I wish I wasn't dull and boring
Miley Cyrus - I am so ugly and stupid
Miley Cyrus - Anything for attention
Czerchnkii - Dim

D
Dadfinger - Where's dad's finger when you need it?
Dae Dae - Mae Mae
Daisy Days - Freezing
Damn People - Damn People
Damn Tumblers - Damn Tumblers
Damn Warp - Damn Warp
Damn Zoo - Damn Zoo
Deftones - Gore
Devonte - Feed me
Devonte - Find me
Diets Are For Dimwits - Lassie's lost pudding cup
Dimmer than Dim - Inputs
Dion - New York is my home
Dirty Pennies - Flocks and pimps
Doves That Die Today - Lassie
Drippy Dennis - Directional
Dry Potato - Sync
Ducks for Ducks - Nine hundred ponies
Dumb Sounds - Like Nanny and the poodle

E
Each and Each - Teach
Eachy - Preachy
Eat The Bounty Feathers - Naptime
Ectonerf - Bah baddah bah
Elephant Muff - Beneath the blurry knob
Elves and Bumpy Thumpers - Original motion picture soundtrack
Emergency Flakes - Phasers
Empty - Flow
Empty Flower - 1 2 3 4
Enough for Five Thousand - One bottle
Enter the Entrance With Lockets - Glasses on the puddle
Eventually We'll All Die With Nothing - Pom poms
Everyone But - But Everyone
Ewe - Ranch funk
EZ - Not so

F
FA - La la
Famous Famous - Converter
Far Out Far In - Farin
Faxes Forever - Limp little pixies
Ferz - Lizzy
Fifty Million - Zero lads
Finks Forever - Live at the dead
Five Times Fifty-Five - Live
Four Times Four Is Four - Five times
Foxes - All I need
Fume - Lumps
Funky Laminate - Parking
Fur For Francis - Pouches

G
Gang of Flower - Untertainment
Gas Pumps - Last primper
Gauge Rage - Now cow
Germany's Burp - Lamp drill
Get Your Begging Done - Tower bitch
Vince Gill - Down to my last bad habit
Goo Goo Dolls - Boxes
Graham Slackers - Naturally grabby
Ariana Grande - Into you
Grass Patches - Dolby
Josh Groban - Stages live
David Guetta - This one's for you
Guns N Roses - Acoustic session: Radio broadcast 1987

H
Hamster on a Bun - Heartache on a bun
Hamster on a Lettuce Leaf - Try to find something to stuff in your cheeks
Jennifer and Sarah Hart - Where did our love go
Jennifer and Sarah Hart - We loved Jesus very much
Jennifer and Sarah Hart - Happy together
Hay - Hay
Hazle - Measurements
Hell for Humans - Happiness is a dumb puppy
Help Me Help Me - Liver
Help the Hopeless - Bloody hearts get you nowhere
Hissy - Laserbon
Hitt - Dawn for the loud birds
Hizzers - Stuck
Ian Hunted - Punts and nuttters
Husperate - ADN
Hut for Henry - Universe of sandy
Huzzle - Earlier albums

I
Ian - Jackknife
Icky - Picky, picky, picky
If It Dies Don't Touch It - I offered more than they wanted and they took it
If You Knew Nothing You Would Be Nothing - Drips
Inky Doll - Dampness and dryness
In The End The Beginning - Ridgefield
It Stays Warm - Square butter
IX Lamb Sweater - To each his each
IZZ - Each his to his

J
Alan Jackson - Now that I'm a girl
Alan Jackson - Now that I done gone angry
Alan Jackson - My drone
Michael Jackson - Off the wall
Michael Jackson - Towers of nothing
Michael Jackson - Nosey dopes
Jerry's Apple - Towers
Jerry's Crud - Narry a buster
Jersey is Swervy - Translustre
Jethro Toil - Sick as a tick
Jethro Wump - Aquatong
Jethro Zoo - Minstrel in the snake exhibit
Elton John - Wonderful crazy night
Elton John - Where did my voice go?
Jones Is A Donkey - Drammamine
Jones Is An Elephant - Mine ain't mine
Judas Priest - Battle cry
Junk Is Just Junk - Lady trunk

K
Kaas - Lacey
Kalesh - Kaos
Kandy and the Ks - Lassie's drool
Kows - Land of the Kows
Kraftlunch - Radio lunch
Kraftdinner - Electric dinner
Kraftsnack - Trans euro snack
Krap - Krap
Krazy Cow - Lots of tips
Krunchy Krunch - Captain's caps and tons
Kudzu's Lamp - Drastic
Kunks - The Late Glossy Kunks Album
KWKWERA - Lists

L
Lab Crutch - Tramps that David hates
Ladies For Pretzels - Louder than the other thing that we had discussed earlier
Lady Gaga - How come I never get mentioned in babysue?
Lady Gaga - If I look really strange, nothing else matters
Lady Gaga - Anything for fame
Lady Gaga - Anything for money
Lamb Peppers - Smuppy
Lamps for the Homeless - These goddamn things don't work
Cindi Lauper - Detour
Laxative Preamble - Naps and snappers
Let There Be Let - Now there be meow
Lisa Said - First time, long time
Lists - Stop the Lists
Loretta Lynn - Full circle
Loud and Loud - Dull and dull
Lumineers - Cleopatra
Lumps - Lousy mouses
Lung Disease - Trowel

M
Manners and Nanners - Tablets for pokey
Trayvon Martin - Skittuzz fo evuhbuddeh
Trayvon Martin - Juss a boy on his way to duh candy sto
Masta Ace - The falling season
Matchbox - Going down there
Math for Math's Sake - Plazas
Maze Lops - Trazzler
Mazer's Big Torch Bucket - Lipsy
Bruce McArthur - People in pots
Bruce McArthur - Landscape architect blues
Bruce McArthur - Big 'n' playful
Tim McGraw - Do anything for charity
Tim McGraw - Do anything to make money
Tim McGraw - Do anything
Millie's Pork Bucket - Boxes won't go away
Money for Puny People - Lucky drop
Monkey Chuck - Arlene
Monkey Davis - Nervous
Monkey Pauline - Damnable
Moo Moo the Bow Wow - Trouser's ain't fresh no more
Motorhead - Clean your clock
Motorbutt - Clock your cleaners
Mrowl - Prowling for mrowl
Murphy and Nop - Dammy and slop
Murphy and Nuns - Drippy nun bitches
Murphy's Paw - Plaid and dumb
My Evening Girdle - Snippets and drabble
My Evening Snot - Things my animals forget to learn

N
David Nail - Fighter
Nasal and Tonsil - Lasers and urchers
Ned and the Headrumpers - Trowels
Aaron Neville - Apache
Newsboys - God's not dead
New York Dolls - We weren't real dolls
New York Dolls - We were real dolls
New York Dolls - We were really from Portland
No More Blouses - Farmy
No More Bundt Cakes - Prowler
No More Cactus - Deal or no no
Nothing That You Haven't Heard Before - Repeat it
Now Cows - Blouses and thermometers
Numb's Fumbler - Town and mouth

O
Octorub - Norbie
Oh No That Old Shithead Is Here Again - Rotten old schmucks with no manners
Oooh - Uuuuuh
Oooh Oooh - Uuuuuh uhhh
Opposite of Opposite - Lopposite
Orange Floyd - Sharp glide of the goon
The Orb - It's 1963 and the stripes are grinding
The Orb - Big fluffy omelets
Osmosis - USB #7
Other Muzzles - Howdy Pops
Oz and the Schnoz - Pow wows and monkeys

P
Painted Fuss - Nope
Pants and Pantless - Rainy press
Part Blub - Fran is ugly
Dolly Parton - Lots of money makes me happy
Dolly Parton - Lots of attention makes me happy
Dolly Parton - Lots of everything makes me happy
Paws With Fingers - Ink bus
Pet Shop Boys - Super
Poodle Powder - Dust of the dawgie
Mike Posner - At night, alone
Pranks for Steak Loads - Heaps of slop
The Puddles - Nappy load
Punk Biscuits - Sap
Punk Noodles - Take this noodle and cook it
Puny - Runny infection
Pusfergradison - Nay, the basket sayeth

Q
Quacks - Trippy truck
Quails and Trucks - Lamb power
Queen For A Tray - Lower the pork
Query - Stop the questions
Quest for Dope - Smoking snuff
Quails Got Drunk - Beer and tissue paper
Quicker Than Daffy - Cords that don't work
Quiet Little Worm Thing - Never thought about it and never want to now
Quiz Germs - Links that don't work
Quurtie - Lousy bench

R
Radiohead - Daydreaming
Radiodud - Half of the basic shop
Radishes - Lavish stickers
Debbie Rafter - Lemme after
Raws - Raws and raws
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dark necessities
Reel to Raoul - Mouthpiece
Reform Club - Never yesterday
Rely On Relish - Candy dash
Mick Rhodes & The Hard Eight - Paradise city
Roasted Trap - Asia's not there anymore
Rolling Bones - Get your mama's kraut
Rolling Chunks - Flower pots
Rolling Dammits - Sure thing not sure
Rolling Elderly People - Stocky plungers
Rolling Joints - Finky stinkers
Rolling Monkeys - Monkeys on Main Street
Rumpy - USBs and RTDs
Runny - Tippy's revenge
Rush - Beneath, between and behind
Ruzzer - Bow to the Ruzzer
Rylo - The dog's head is not steady anymore

S
Larry Samual - Barney doesn't have hugs for me
Santa Died Last Night - Presenting...
Santa Did It - Lamenting
Ed Sheeran - How come I never get mentioned in babysue?
Ed Sheeran - It's because my music is crummy, isn't it?
Ed Sheeran - Why do I look and sound so crummy?
Ed Sheeran - Are there any questions that have answers?
Blake Shelton - Can't help it if I'm a boring dullard
Blake Shelton - If you're into what I do you're obviously on the wrong web site
Blake Shelton - If people think I'm handsome they must really be confused and retarded
Shotgun Louise - Rampy dim
Shotgun Tina - Lousy lamps
Shotgun Zappa - Mouses and mouses
Smashing Drumsticks - Pass the pepper
Smuppy - The tatters that ground pepper
Snoop Dogg - Coolaid
Sparse - Kim's Ono spy mouse
Rick Springfield - Rocket science
Bruce Springsteen - I'm a generic old woman who never could sing
Mavis Staples - Livin' on a high note
Steely Dan - Doing it in a ditch
Barbra Streisand - Barfing up my breakfast
Styx - Suite madame blue: Radio broadcast 1977
Sultans of Swing - Subcontinental drift
Swap and Change - Loudness weird
Swenter - Flowers
Taylor Swift - How come I never get reviewed in babysue?
Taylor Swift - Well, if your publicist would send something...you might.
Taylor Swift - Really?
Taylor Swift - Sure
Swy - Rent

T
Tai Tai - Lists
Talking Sheds - Lambs forking up tonsils
Tea For Lunch - Massachusetts isn't a country
Teepee Tupperware - Laura's butter pand
Telltale - Taller toll
Thuds - Ready for emperors
Thunder - All you can eat
Justin Timberlake - Can't stop being shallow
Tonk - Thoughtly
Trilly Dills and Damp Dippers - Witch white
Trunk Idiots - Laugh when it's all over
Try To Try - Stop and try
Tummy Bus - Lambs and prawns
Tunker - Lassie's paw
Twisted Sister - Rock 'N' Roll Saviours: The early years
Steven Tyler - We're all somebody from nowhere
TZ397 - Rowl the smunk

U
Ugly Banana - How do the hussy wink
Ugly Orange - Do the mouse
Ultraplucks - Eyebrow mania
Umbrella Vision - Church of tassle
Uncle Duck - Mushed
Uncle Pregnant - Does and rodents
Carrie Underwood - I'm proof that people have horrible taste
Carrie Underwood - Making money is more important than making good music
Carrie Underwood - Cliff diving lesbians
Keith Urban - Ripchord

V
Various Artists - A collection of dull dribble that no one will ever notice
Various Artists - We stopped makin' em because they stopped buyin' em
Various Artists - No one buys these kinds of compilations anymore so that's why we keep producing 'em
Various Artists - Tribute to someone whose name we can't remember
Various Artists - Trying to get something heard never works
Various Artists - The most boring bands you never cared to hear
Various Artists - We've the last ones to know the last ones
Various Artists - Our albums are always the first to get thrown away
Various artists - Who gets to eat the trash

W
Wally Is Near - Stamp that thing goodbye
Wanda and the Wandas - Limp
We Don't Get It - Now is the now
Well I Guess This Is Just Another One - Lumps
Whether Or Not - Lousy weather
Why Can't We Eat It In The Car - Marbly
William XIII - XIII or 238
Lucinda Williams - Ghosts of Highway 20
Wind That Goes - Don't

X
X - The day we tied our shoes wrong
Xie - La la the distance away
X-ray Pecs - Lookie away
X-ray Stats - Box cutters and tramplers
Xzistance - Lift down

Y
Yack Yack - Tacky tick
Yanni - The dream concert
Yell All The Time For Whatever You Pay For It - Taxi service
Yellow Floyd - Park wide until noon
Yesterday's Potties - Damp portions
Yes We Will Be Bananas - Trap doors
Yes You - You guessed it
You might - Yes you might
You never - Well I never
Young and Bland - Stick, stuck
Yoyos for Panama - Sharp
Yoyos for Zop - Trollo mia presto
Yuck This Tastes Awful - Don't eat it then

Z
Zappa and the Zappettes - Trown
Frank Zappa - How flowers got in the potty train
Frank Zappa - Lukewarm mouses
Zi - See Zi play
Zunk - How the leaves got patchy
Zupper - Towels for Blanche
Zyle - Twelve and fifty

©2018 LMNOP aka dONW7