Just saw the new Die Hard movie last night. I'm in love!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
The Waning Hours Of 2007
2007 has been a very convoluted year for me. With my fathers illnes and passing in February, to my consulting business continuing to move ahead, to the many folks out there who I have been able to spend time with and share our love for music. I've connected with many of you out there other then a passing salute. Many have become what I truely call friends. As my business takes me out of town, I hope we have the chance to meet up with some of you in person. I've had a few thwarted meet ups with two of my friends, Eek the Cat and jackamoto. The logistics will workout sometime, I know it.
To all of my regular visitors and others in the blogger world, I wish you a happy holiday with your friends and family. There is nothing more important.
We'll be back after the New Year
Peace my friends
Paul
Boy!, What Knockers!!
One of the strange things that I noticed on our trip to Europe in October was the very intricate door knockers all over. I became facinated with them in every city we were in and took pics of many. (Easily entertained) Here are two for a preview of the slideshow I'm working on.
Friday, December 21, 2007
OK Gracie, Now It's Christmas Time
One of my other areas of hoarding is with old radio shows. I have a modest collection of comedy shows with many "crime" shows like Boston Blackie, The Shadow, The Thin Man and others. Wanted to begin sharing a few of these here at the appropriate times.
The first one is a Burns and Allen Christmas show from 1936. Burns, as in George Burns. You know, the old guy who played God (for the younger set). So d/l and curl up next to the fireplace, close your eyes, and enjoy.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Crazy Sounds From Munich
Rubens & The Barrichellos
Gran Turisimo
2003
Great surf trio from Munich featuring the members of the MOTORPSYCHOS.
Clear reverb drenched surf with strong influences of Italo-Western Soundtracks, Drag Racing and Secret Agent movies.
Clear reverb drenched surf with strong influences of Italo-Western Soundtracks, Drag Racing and Secret Agent movies.
RUBENS FITTIPALDI - Guitars
PEDRO BARRICHELLO - Bass
ALEJANDRO BARRICHELLO - Drums
PEDRO BARRICHELLO - Bass
ALEJANDRO BARRICHELLO - Drums
1 Tamburetto
2 Mondo Liberace
3 Esmeralda
4 Brazil
5 Parabolics
6 Besame Mucho
7 Geronimo
8 Dungeon Keeper
9 Mahagoni Dream
10 El Chico
11 Inspecter Cohen
12 Grave Digger
13 Eau Rouge
14 Space Rider
From Mom & Dad's Turntable To You
Sergio Mendes & Brazil '66
Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brazil '66
1996
For most of the second half of the '60s, Sergio Mendes was the top-selling Brazilian artist in the United States, charting huge hit singles and LPs that regularly made the Top Five. His records with his group Brasil '66 regularly straddled the domestic pop and international markets in America, getting played heavily on AM radio stations, both rock and easy listening, and he gave his label, A&M, something to offer light jazz listeners beyond the work of the company's co-founder, Herb Alpert. During this period, he also became an international music star and one of the most popular musicians in South America.
1 Mas Que Nada
2 One Note Samba/Spanish Flea
3 The Joker
4 Going out of My Head
5 Tim Dom Dom
6 Day Tripper
7 Agua de Beber (Water to Drink)
8 Slow Hot Wind
9 O Pato (The Duck)
10 Berimbau
http://rapidshare.com/files/77320057/Herb_Alpert_Presents_Sergio_Mendes___Brazil__66.rar
What Do They Put On French Fries In Norway?
The Samuel Jackson Five
Easily Misunderstood
2005
The Samuel Jackson Five, or the SJ5, started up a couple of years ago as a failed drum’n’bass-project. After numerous changes in material, instruments, visions and band members, we've finally released our debut album. It has received good reviews and enabled us to do a fair amount of gigs. The Samuel Jackson Five have always been an alternative to the mainstream acts and see no reason to change that now. We let each individual explore and push their own limits, without losing focus on the melody. The outcome is ever changing but often leads to ethereal, experimental, improvised, dynamic music. Or at least thats what we think.
1 Skinflick Dress Rehearsal
2 If You Show Off The Milk, Who's Gonna Buy The Cow
3 Easily Misunderstood
4 Charlie Foxtrot Queen
5 Person Most Likely To Enjoy The Taste Of Human Flesh
6 Unimog
7 No Name
8 Song For Sarah
9 Psycho Derelict
10 Michael Collin's Autograph
11 Switch Ambulance Trip
Saturday, December 15, 2007
You Can't Lick The Nematoads
The Nematoads
Five Guns West
2007
The Nematoads, a trippy, twangy, five-piece modern surf band from Austin, straddle the line between ´60s retro cool and tall-in-the-saddle Tejas twang. Behind the reigns is guitarist Ted James – the legendary man with two first names – who, in bygone times, led Johnny Vortex and Squid Vicious. The rhythm section stars bassist Mark Brazle, percussionist Jaime Joseph, and drummer George Pestana. George treats his drum heads like the skulls of his arch enemies, pounding them into submission and kicking them while they’re down. Mark adds to the melee with his bitchin’ sense of groove, and Jaime adds a touch of Latin percussion that gives the band the spring in its step and the spice in its chili. And speaking of gas, the Nematoads have a new tiger in their tank: trumpeter Tiger Anaya, a herald of good things to come. The Nematoads' pasta-fueled excursions embody the sound of The Third Coast, the vibe of the street with a 5-o’clock club beat. This is modern surf with a heart that beats all – six-string action blends the classic sounds of the Ventures and Davie Allan & the Arrows with the surf-punk of the Dead Kennedys, the twangy madness of Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet, and the sonic attack of the Pixies. Of course, we can't forget our Texas roots! Catch the ironic hypersonic wave of the Nematoads live and prepare yourself for a very different type of Austin show. The Nematoads: ´60s surf cool with Texas instrumental rock.
1 Deadwood
2 Border Run
3 Harlingen Shuffle Pt. 1
4 Urban Sombrero
5 Five Guns West
6 Entrada del Oeste
7 Laredo By Sundown
8 Bandera!
9 Havana Gila
10 Dos Diablos
11 Matagorda Bay
12 Devil Ridge
13 Distant Drums
14 Cuero Gold
15 Capoburro
2 Border Run
3 Harlingen Shuffle Pt. 1
4 Urban Sombrero
5 Five Guns West
6 Entrada del Oeste
7 Laredo By Sundown
8 Bandera!
9 Havana Gila
10 Dos Diablos
11 Matagorda Bay
12 Devil Ridge
13 Distant Drums
14 Cuero Gold
15 Capoburro
Update
Dear Guests
Received this note from Ted James, guitarist and songwriter for The Nematoads. In an effort to support Ted and his group, I am pulling the link for this one. Please purchase this great album at CD Baby, Deep Eddy Records or the Hematoads own site at http://www.nematoads.com.
Hey! This is Ted James, guitarist and songwriter for the Nematoads. Thanks for all of the kind words. I really hope that you all will actually buy a copy of our CD rather than download it for free here, especially since we spent so much money making it. Rehearsal and recording time is expensive, so we have a lot to recoup. If you would like to buy a copy, you can get one at CDBaby, our website: http://www.nematoads.com or our record label Deep Eddy Records: http://www.deepeddy.net
Thanks,
Ted James
The Nematoads
Eddie Angel
Eddie Angel's Guitar Party
1997
Review
by Richie Unterberger
Los Straitjackets' guitarist Eddie Angel's solo outing offers an acceptably authentic homage to greasy instrumental 1950s rock & roll, largely though not wholly comprised of original material. Angel's biggest influence is the scratchy, distorted guitar of Link Wray, but there's also some grinding R&B roadhouse in the saxophone of Morrissey sideman Boz Boorer. Floating around in the mix are echoes of the surf era ("Kawanga") and tinges of exotica sleaze ("Casbah") and horror movie soundtrack creepiness. For all that, it doesn't have the menace or innovation of those old Link Wray records, though it has a heartfelt sense of fun. It's also hard to imagine any surf or instrumental rock band titling one of its songs "Topless Beach," as one of these tracks is named.
1 Thunder
2 Police Raid on Toe Rag
3 Kawanga!
4 Brawl
5 Caveman
6 Beyond Zone X
7 Werewolf
8 Itchy Chicken
9 Mumbling Beatnik
10 Topless Beach
11 Casbah
12 Jurassic Beat
13 No Money
14 Take It Off
15 Toe Rag Rumble
This link pulled by request of Art B from MuSick Records. Get the real deal @ http://www.musickrecords.com
Destination...Get Down!
Diplomats Of Solid Sound
Destination...Get Down!
2005
Review
by Mark Deming
Iowa City's keepers of the good groove, the Diplomats of Solid Sound are serving up more old-school funk and soul on their third album, Destination...Get Down! The biggest change in the group's attack this time out is the addition of David Basinger on sax, who adds a new level of muscle and atmosphere to the Diplomats' signature sound, but for the most part this is in the same vein as their previous set, Let's Cool One. But while Destination...Get Down! may offer up "more of the same," the truth is that the DOSS are getting better at their Meters meets Booker T. Hammond-fortified grooves, and the group sounds both cool and passionate throughout these 12 instrumental tracks, with keyboard man Nate "Count" Basinger clearly the star of this show. The jazzy undercurrents in the Diplomats' tunes are easier to spot here, without sacrificing the R&B heart of their music, and even without the presence of a full-time bassist on these sessions, they have the ability to get the dancefloor burning in no time flat, without leaving the listeners behind. Fun stuff, and well worth a spin for those who like their soul hot and cool at the same time.
1 Smash Up
2 Knock a Piece Off
3 Holdin' the Money
4 Wicked P
5 Intercontinental Git
6 Ladies' Choice
7 Dealer Cheater
8 Loaf and Jug
9 Sizzler
10 Mohair Momma
11 Triple Starch
12 Growin' in It
Monday, December 10, 2007
Like A Mai Tai Spiked With Vicodin
The Vanduras
In The Dark
2002
Brace yourself, this is a darker beach party where the Mai-Tai's are spiked with Vicodin and no ones really sure who's good, bad or ugly.
If anyone could creep up and offer you a glimpse into the void, it would most certainly be 'The Vanduras.' The enchanting melodies on their new album, 'In The Dark' combine the essence of surf-noir and spaghetti-western with a twist of exotic schmaltz. The Vanduras go for the jugular and create an instrumental album that is anything but uneasylistening.
1 In the Dark
2 La Planche
3 The Big Hurt
4 El Monte
5 Cybele's Reverie
6 Lost Beach
7 Dinner With Robert
8 Charlotte
9 Sarajevo Rose
10 Rope'n Pineapples
11 Theme For Troubled Teens
12 Atomic
13 Levitare'
2 La Planche
3 The Big Hurt
4 El Monte
5 Cybele's Reverie
6 Lost Beach
7 Dinner With Robert
8 Charlotte
9 Sarajevo Rose
10 Rope'n Pineapples
11 Theme For Troubled Teens
12 Atomic
13 Levitare'
Power Surf Again
Jerry Cole & His Spacemen
Power Surf! The Best Of..
Re-up
Review
by Richie Unterberger
Twenty early-sixties instrumental rockers, most tied (if nominally) to surf music, taken from three 1963-64 Capitol albums (Surf Age, Hot Rod Dance Party, and Outer Limits). Cole was different from the average surf guitarist: he was more experienced and versatile, a result of his extensive experience in Los Angeles sessions. His arrangements were also slicker—in the favorable sense of that adjective—with tight, and tightly paced, arrangements (frequently with brass) that reflected his proximity to the world of Hollywood film and television. So it is that much of this sounds like cool background music for action sequences in early-to-mid-sixties teen-oriented movies and TV shows. Perhaps his closest counterparts in this regard would be the Marketts (whose "Out of Limits" Cole covers here); there are also strong echoes of the Ventures, and occasional nods to exotica. This is less "garage-y, " perhaps, than much vintage surf music, but no less powerful. It's also more melodically varied than most vintage surf acts were, and Cole excels at coaxing an impressive assortment of thick, assertive tones from his axe. As a consequence, this disc is recommended to surf fans who are getting a bit tired of the same-old generic Southern California sound as the reissue vaults get more deeply plundered, and want to hear a refreshingly different take on the style.
1 Power Surf
2 Night Drag
3 Surf Age
4 Deep Surf
5 Stinger
6 Midnight Surfer
7 Rosarita Surf
8 Driving Little Deuce
9 Bronze Surfer
10 The Strut
11 Night Rumble
12 Movin' Surf
13 Outer Limits
14 One Color Blues
15 Martian Surf
16 Roadster Rock
17 Point Panic
18 T-Roadster Rock
19 Dancing Mags
20 Racing Waves
http://rapidshare.com/files/73154548/Jerry_Cole___His_Spacemen_-_Power_Surf___The_Best_Of.rar
How Very Creepy!
The Creepniks
Graveyard Shindig
2005
Thanks go out to C-500 for this jewel.
A rather refreshing change-up from the typical Misfit-ed doowoppery that typically comes with bright green covers, drippy logos and vows of containing "pure rock & roll terror!!!", The Creepniks exude an interesting mulch of twangin' surf rock, parmesan-dusted spaghetti western strummery and WAY gone psychobilly slobbering. While the demoniacal Dick Dale-ing of "Surfin' With Satan" proved my favorite out of nine, there's no denying that the ravioli'd rumblage of "Pale Rider" and "Zombie Stomp" are sure to make Sergio Leone drum along on his coffin lid as well. "Vocalist" Johnny Lockjaw is mercifully used rather sparingly - appearing on just over half of GRAVEYARD SHINDIG's tracks. With a croon that artfully blends the talents of Lux Interior, Tom Waits and a pregnant manatee coping with Down's Syndrome while being broiled alive in dill butter, Lockjaw's talents are best shaken rather than stirred and, in spite of themselves, make for the most memorable portions of these ptomaine-tainted Texans' debut offering. While not something I'll bust out with the regularity of... say... The Cramps, Mr. Waits, or any of a variety of cruelly slaughtered Florida fauna, GRAVEYARD SHINDIG succeeded in dodging my preconceived stereotypes and is most likely sure to please any horrorbillypsychopunks out there looking for a new kinda voodoo-broo to fix up with.
Horrorwood Babbleon - September 2005
Horrorwood Babbleon - September 2005
1. Zombie Stomp
2. Shadow Over Elkhart
3. Pale Rider
4. Surfin' With Satan
5. Hellbent Sickobilly
6. Zombie Kinda Love
7. El Gringo Loco
8. Freaky Friday
9. How Do You Sleep?
It's A Tokyo Wipe Out!!
Rat Holic
Wipe Out With Rat Holic
2005
This five-piece combo from Japan delivers a fun, energetic set of surf and frat rock style tunes on this 16 track CD. Featuring Kahori on organ, Marie on drums, Run Run on bass, Etsuko on saxophone and Ajiro on guitar, this band might have an odd name, but they play rock n' roll on the same level as fellow countrymen Jackie & The Cedrics, Goggle-A, The El Caminos and The Mighty Moguls.
1 Silver Bullet
2 Mr. Hiro
3 Little Woody
4 Surf Party
5 Good Grief
6 Dynamite
7 Kamikaze
8 250cc Rider
9 Surfin' Alligator
10 Yu-Hi
11 Church Key
12 (Koi-No) Rat Blues
13 Red River Rock
14 Fat Rat Surfer
15 Surfin' Chihuahua
16 Run! Run!
Link removed by request of Double Crown Records
Friday, December 07, 2007
My Last Surf Coasters
The Surf Coasters
Samurai Struck
Samurai Struck
2005
@320
1.
Samurai Struck - (studio)
2.
Dreams - (studio)
3.
Bamble Bee - (studio)
4.
Nineteen - (studio)
5.
Soyokaze - (studio)
6.
Wataridori - (studio)
7.
Stamp Stomp - (studio)
8.
Midnight Headlight - (studio)
9.
Summertime Blues - (studio)
10.
Tsunami Struck (Live) - (studio)
11.
Clash (Live) - (studio)
12.
Sharkman (Live) - (studio)
13.
Surf Express (Live) - (studio)
14.
Baja (Live) - (studio)
15.
Ramble (Live) - (studio)
16.
Jack The Ripper (Live) - (studio)
17.
Misirlou (Live) - (studio)
18.
Fly Up (Live) - (studio)
Thursday, December 06, 2007
The Whys Right In Your Own Home!!
The Whys
Sanjyo
2006
From Fukuoka, Japan
Ruiko was influenced from Trashmen. Naomi was from Dick Dale.Since 1999, we started with other woman drummer. Yuta joined it in 2003. He wear woman's disguise at the start. However, he entreated it, and it was dressed like a man!2003,we joined GOGGLE-A's 'SAZANAMI LABEL' comp CD.2004, Phill Dirt 'Reverb Central' gave "SURF OPERA 4 stars.2006,we release new CD 'THE WHYS Sanjo!'
1 Por Que
2 Makka Na Taiyo
3 Sunset Party
4 Oh! Ninja
5 Bye Bye Beach
6 Bye Bye Beach
7 Satsujin Taiyo
8 Minato De Sasareta Otok9 Surf Opera
10 Ebola Beach
http://rapidshare.com/files/74757006/The_Whys_-_Sanjyo.rar
The Whys - live at Purple Orchid in El Segundo, CA
You gotta see them!
Turned on to this group by the ever-rotting, Al Zombie.
Wow Flutter Hiss
Shadowy Men On A Shadowy Planet
Wow Flutter Hiss '86
1986
Biography
by Greg Prato
Best known for supplying the theme song to the popular TV comedy show The Kids in the Hall, Toronto's largely instrumental trio Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet originally formed in 1984, consisting of members Brian Connelly (guitar, keyboards, backing vocals), Reid Diamond (bass, lead vocals), and Don Pyle (drums, backing vocals). The band merged punk (à la the Dead Kennedys) and surf (à la the Ventures) sounds together to create a highly original style, resulting in a steady stream of EPs/singles issued throughout the mid- to late '80s. These included such quirky titles as "Love Without Words," "Wow Flutter Hiss '86, Schlagers!," "Live Record With Extra Bread and Cheese," "Explosion of Taste," and "Reid Does Neil." By 1989, a local comedy troupe (and friends of the band) was given their own TV show, Kids in the Hall, which used the Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet track "Having an Average Weekend" as their theme song. In 1990, the trio issued their debut full-length release, Savvy Show Stoppers, which was a compilation of material from their earlier singles. Two more releases followed shortly thereafter, 1991's Dim the Lights, Chill the Ham and 1993's Sport Fishin' (the latter of which was recorded by Steve Albini), but by 1995, Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet had split up. The former members went on to other projects: Diamond and Pyle joined forces once again in Phono-Comb, while Connelly worked with Neko Case's Boyfriends and Atomic 7. In early 2001, Diamond passed away after a battle with cancer.
1 Theme From T.V.
2 Zombie Compromise
3 Customize [2nd version]
4 Shake Some Evil
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Bah Humbug!!
Everyone seems to be going this route so I must join in......once.
Enjoy y'all
"Bad Boy"
Trustar
What A Better Way To Start The Holiday Season!
Los Straitjackets
'Tis The Season For Los Straitjackets
2002
Review
by Mark Deming
If you're looking for someone to help you share the joy and magic of the holiday season, who better than the world's leading masked instrumental surf band? Los Straitjackets don't offer up a whole lot of surprises on 'Tis the Season for los Straitjackets!, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing; Eddie Angel and Danny Amis serve up lots of tasty guitar work, and Pete Curry and Jimmy Lester are one solid rhythm section, just as they've always been, and on these 13 tunes (11 covers and two originals) the lucha libre-obsessed guitar wranglers show off the smarts, humor, and sterling chops that have become their trademark. The "La Bamba"-accented "Feliz Navidad," a version of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" which channels the spirit of the Chantays, and the Ventures tribute of "Sleigh Ride" are highlights, and while this album will go over best with those who thrive on retro cool, this should send your next Christmas party into a state of dance fever with anyone who appreciates the era of enjoyable AM radio. How's the surf at the North Pole these days, anyway?
1 Here Comes Santa Claus
2 A Marshmallow World
3 Feliz Navidad
4 Jingle Bell Rock
5 Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
6 God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
7 Frosty the Snowman
8 Christmas in Las Vegas
9 Let It Snow
10 Sleigh Ride
11 Christmas Weekend
12 The Little Drummer Boy
13 The Christmas Song
Friday, November 23, 2007
I've Been Blasted At Jupiter Beach
The Sandblasters
Jupiter Beach
2002
1.Surf's You Right
2.Night In Tunisia
3.Weird Satellite
4.Vaquero
5.Pipeline B52
6.Stone Door
7.Lullaby Of The Leaves
8.Night Of The Vampire
9.Petrina
10.Mookiest Limbo
11.Ray Gun Smasher
12.Spys & Superguys
13.Water Gunn
14.Brutal Surfers
15.Naked Piranha
*
*
Beach Party A Go Go Go Go
The Dynotones
Beach Party A Go Go
2005
The DYNOTONES, hailing from Orange, California, are a four piece surf/hot rod combo consisting of Dano Nichols (guitar), Dan Moses (guitar), Rob Kruse (bass Guitar), and Scott Simpson (drums). Influences of the band include Astronauts, Link Wray, Bobby Fuller, the Pyramids, and the Ventures. The DYNOTONES have been playing their brand of instrumental rock-n-roll since the spring of 1995.The band was reformed with new members Dan Moses and Rob Kruse in June of 1998. Known for their high energy performances, The DYNOTONES have shared stages with the likes of Los Straightjackets, the Bomboras, Deke Dickerson, and the Ghastly Ones. Playing small clubs to outdoor events, like street fairs and the Rat Fink Reunions, the DYNOTONES have perfected the nostalgic sounds of the past and developed a style that has earned them a place among todays most successful instrumental groups, as well as complementing those of the past.
1 Modified
10 Gear Grinder
12 The Chisler
13 Injector
Don't Touch Your TV Set....
Jerry Cole & His Spacemen
Outer Limits
1963
Review by Mark Deming
Jerry Cole was a first-call session guitarist in the 1960s who played on a number of Phil Spector's epochal sides and led the pit bands for the rock & roll-oriented TV shows Shindig and Hullabaloo. When he wasn't busy with all that, he cut a number of instrumental rock albums under a variety of assumed names, but Outer Limits features Cole and his band working under his own shingle for a change. Outer Limits is a no-fuss collection of 11 surf-influenced tunes, many of them covers of popular hits of the day, and while Cole's style couldn't be called "revolutionary," there's a lot more muscle in the performances of "Pipeline" and "Wipeout" than on the originals. Cole's discreet use of fuzz and the full-bodied tone he could conjure from his gear give his performances a sound that stands out from others of his ilk, and his originals are strong if basic stuff. If this isn't exactly the Holy Grail for surf fans (and the more passionate might want to spring for Power Surf!: The Best of Jerry Cole & His Spacemen), Outer Limits is still good fun, and anyone who digs classic surf and instrumental sides will get hip to this.
3 Wipeout
5 Pipeline
6 Sukiyaki
8 Pokey
10 Point Panic
11 Tequila
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Vice Is Nice
The Vice Barons
Steel Blue Moods
2002
*
1. Surfsploitation
2. Like Weird
3. Shaft in Matongue
4. Timebomb
5. Big Head
6. No Way to Behave
7. 9.10.
8. Fuel Injection
9. Werwolf (Zentropa '45)
10. Hangover Special
11. Unabomber
12. Persuaders
Penetrated Again!!
The Pyramids
Penetration: The Best Of The Pyramids
Re-upped by popular demand
Reviewby Richie Unterberger
Not just the best, but virtually all of the Pyramids, on this 20-track compilation: songs from their sole album, a few non-LP singles, and two previously unissued tracks from their appearance in the Bikini Beach film. "Penetration" is available on several surf compilations, and everyone but surf collectors should stick with those.
1 Penetration
2 Road Runnah
3 Pyramid Stomp
4 Koko Joe
5 Sticks and Skins
6 Everybody [CD Bonus]
7 Paul
8 Long Tall Texan [CD Bonus]
9 Do the Slauson [CD Bonus]
10 Out of Limits [CD Bonus]
11 Louie, Louie [CD Bonus]
12 Here Comes Marsha
13 Walkin' the Dog
14 Contact
15 Pressure
16 Pyramid's Stomp [45 Version]
17 Custom Caravan
18 Midnight Run
19 Record Run [#]
20 Bikini Drag [#]
http://rapidshare.com/files/69947608/Penetration_The_Best_Of_The_Pyramids_1995.rar
Monday, November 12, 2007
Some Voodoo 4 Zillagord
The Mutants
Voodoo Blues
2003
In Glorious 320kbps courtesy of Malc
Re-upped for Zillagord
When's the last time you heard a great instrumental rock and roll album? Admittedly, if you exclude multi-artist comps and Link Wray, it's not exactly a fecund field of wildflowers. Which is why, if yer interested in such a thing, you need to make the Mutants' acquaintance. They describe themselves as "afro-garage-mambo"--and the wonder is that they do not lie. Their last record was a collection of sweaty, movin' singles; this is their first album-as-album, and it does not let up. They've cranked up the guitars, and thus gotten even better--"Stampede Caravan" is the best horns 'n' sax wig-out since the glory days of High Time and Funhouse. Wish we could claim 'em here in the States...but they're Finns, and more power to 'em. They have to be a gas live, so let's hope they visit soon.
-The First Church Of Holy Rock´n´Roll, USA
-The First Church Of Holy Rock´n´Roll, USA
1. Caligula
2. High Ride
3. Voodoo Blues
4. Sin Hipster
5. Lumbago
6. Stampede Caravan
7. Southern Far Out
8. Papa Simba
9. Move Along!
http://rapidshare.com/files/69254335/The_Mutants_-_Voodoo_Blues.rar
And Even More Mutants
The Mutants
Death Cult
2005
Heavy caramba!
It’s time for another groovy and twisted hellride into the world of The Mutants! The instrumental Helsinki six-piece returns with an impressive second album, taking their freaky afro-garage-mambo to even wilder spheres. Their genre-defying musical cocktail will leave purists breathless with cool, all-out “party on!”-attitude. But hey, this band is serious! They’re definitely not some lame academic instrumental salarymen!
The sound of The Mutants is very simple to describe: take the fuzz of 60’s garage beat, some hints of psychedelia from the same bygone era, then add funky rhythms and grooves from the 70’s and mix that all with damnedly plain rock’n’roll music and some punk attitude.
After their 2003 “Voodoo Blues” album, The Mutants have been active and faithful to their underground roots by releasing several vinyl singles, as well as recording soundtrack material to skate and snowboard films all around the globe.
This is not a surf CD, but I have long liked the Mutants' original blend of sounds. Once again they have created a new variation.
"Welcome To Death Cult" This is a 30 second introductory scene designed to set up the mood.
"Port - Au - Prince" A large and engaging fuzz chord progression brings on a heavy track with exotic percussion that's like a cross between voodoo and metal. Dark and commanding, with lots of spunk and textural variation. Very cool.
"Heavy Caramba!" On the edge of surf with heavy darkness and a great rhythm, "Heavy Caramba!" is spooky and enticing at the same time. Haunted keys, engaging textures, and menacing thunder.
"Cops In Heat" "Cops In Heat" hints of "Funky Fidel" in some ways, though it's surely not that thick and rhythmic. Funky, fun, yet dark and moody.
"Iron Jamaica" No, it's not metal reggae... "Iron Jamaica" is a rock song with an early Santana sound less the Latin influences. It's an interesting mix of styles - sort of a small combo piece with swirling psycho degeneration.
"Mutants Death Cult" You might imagine the Mutants passing out Cool-Aid for the short-livers, but you'd miss the throbbing tremolo and the haunting soundscape. Psychedelic, exotic, and pretty damn scary!
"Serious Mojo" Another track that reminds me of early Santana in concert less the liquid Latin soul, but still tribal. Quite a large sound.
"Jun' Gala" Large guitar sustain and rock hall beat with an early seventies progressive rock or maybe Krautrock sensibility. Feedback and a circular riff. This grows on you.
"White Trash Trouble Man" Like a swamp thing coming for your girlfriend while you're out getting a refill on that popcorn, "White Trash Trouble Man" is about big drama and fear. A very cool rhythm guitar, long sustained edge, exotic percussion, and atmospheric keys and horns. Like a soundtrack to a film, this is way cool!
"The Ghost Of Meadow Hill" haunts the halls where the band rehearses, or so it would seem. This is a gentle track with a jazzy edge and very comfortable progressive sound, maybe a little like a blend of Gabor Szabo, Harvey Mandell, and Epitaph. This track has a very rude narrative.
-Reverb Central, USA-
The Killer Bananazz
Ocean Reef
2001
Phil Dirt says...
Nine songs from Dutch garage-surf mavens the Killer Bananazz. The approach is full tilt garage, and the songs, mostly covers, are both respectful and updated style wise. There's no doubt Man or Astro-MAN? fans will dig this, and there's much more melody for the surf fans. Seven instros are accompanied by two vocals, a rousing garagy cover of Johnny Kidd and the Pirates' "Please Don't Touch," and a trashy version of the Trashmen's "SurfinÕ Bird."
Picks: Engines of Difference, Miserlou, Rocketship XL, Shockwave, Squad Car
Picks: Engines of Difference, Miserlou, Rocketship XL, Shockwave, Squad Car
"Shockwave"
Zorba and the Greeks' obscuro "Shockwave" is thickly delivered, with intense guitar and trumpet. The blend of fuzz, surf, and trumpet brings out interesting elements of this fine tune.Surf Instrumental Stereo
"Riptide"
Riffin' progressions and loud guitar drive hard for the night time. The guitar needs a little more variation, but the track satisfies, especially the trumpet and power-drive glissandoes.Surf Instrumental Stereo
"Rocketship XL"
Blast off for a hard ride on the Phantoms's obscuro "XL-3." Big and trashy, powerful and intense.Surf Instrumental Stereo
"Miserlou"
Arranged a la Dick Dale's "Miserlou Twist" sans violins, this is a straight ahead fiery performance, trumpet and all. Very trad arrangement, modern aggressive delivery.Surf Instrumental Stereo
"Squad Car"
Bad boy, bad boy, what'cha gonna do... oh, sorry. Eddie and the Showmen's "Squad Car" drives hard, like Eddie's performances from the eighties, nineties and new millennium. Lots of power and drive, and the trumpet is very cool as it plays a duet with the guitar in the last verse!Surf Instrumental Stereo
"Transmissions"
Another slammin' Man Or Astro-MAN? cover, with fire and brimstone, and peppermint patties for the kiddies.Surf Instrumental Stereo
"Engines of Difference"
This is a live thrashing riff rockin' assault on tranquility. Much more about power and drive than melody, yet probably magnetic with an audience. Lots of cool changes and variations.Surf Instrumental Stereo
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Long Board
Long Board
Big Surf
2006
Surfers had to be in top form to ride the rip-tides on a longboard. These boards took a great skill to master, and discouraged many a beginner. Longboards didn't paddle out to sea waiting for a wave - they created a tsunami of surf sounds. They have taken three pieces of vintage equipment and recorded an old-school valve mix of hot summer sounds. Catch the curl in "Bonzai Wash Out", feel your wetsuit being pulled on in "Toro." Take a break from the Sun in "Desert Sky Beach". Jodi Porras plays bass as if he is riding his instrument into a wall of warm water. Hot & fast, loud & clear. Alfredo Ramero on guitars is twang-time, reverb surf city. Ander Boda pounds the skins in a way that will make you feel like you caught the "Wallride" and made it in to cruise the beach another sunny day. Longboards are playing at the same beach party as Los Straightjackets, Dick Dale and the Phantom Surfers. A classic mix of style, sounds and instruments make this one an all-dayer. As you listen to this recording of perfect surfin' sounds it will take you to a hot sandy beach in your woody. The people are pretty and the waves just get bigger and better. Longboards are champions of surf sounds - come and ride the wildest waves with them.
1 Moment Of Truth
2 Requiem For Link
3 Downhill
4 Jeff Philips
5 Journey To The Stars
6 Banzai Washoot
7 Big Surf
8 Wallride
9 Guinchi
10 Roll Out
11 Toro
12 Desert Sky Beach
http://rapidshare.com/files/69117190/Long_Board_-_Big_Surf.rar
Owwww! My Lumbego Is Acting Up Again
Lumbego Surfers
Full Tank Of Tiki
2001
Wow! More Surf and Tiki! Gotta Love It
The Lombego Surfers are not some taned sunny boys from California but rather the hardest working Voodoo rock punkers with the coolest guitar riffs since the Stooges. The three rock`n`roll pagans from Boston and Basel don`t give a hoot about trends, the rock`n`roll road is straight on, the clubs and bars on the way are old pals and a cold beer is always waiting. The Lombego Surfers are on the road in September with the new cd/lp «Pagan Thrills» in their duffel bag.
1 Reverends Ride
2 So Low Down
3 Makes No Difference
4 Full Tank
5 Grab It
6 Pumping My Heart
7 Up For Anything
8 Gimme The Shakes
9 In Their Eye
10 Acceleration
11 Wrap It Up
12 Backfire
13 Highball
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Tikis & Surf... You Can't Beat That!
The Swiv-O-Matics
Charm City Surfer
2003
Served by the mighty Teisco
Review
My goodness, have the Swiv-o-matics ever grown! This is a very well developed set of new music from a band that refuses to recognize the boundaries of genre labels. Exceptional and unique material here, not from main street, but from the outskirts of town, where the suburbs meet the woods at the edge of the continent. Great stuff!
1. Charm City Surfer
2. Innocent Lee
3. The Woman in Skin 13
4. Semi Loads from Mexico
5. (She Came From) Planet Stripper
6. Neckbone
7. Wahoni
8. Elekicity
9. Hag in a Black Leather Jacket
10. Scott
11. Stairway to Hampden
12. Swiv Winter
13. Dundalk, France
14. Journey to the Center of the Drawer
http://rapidshare.com/files/68778129/The_Swiv-O-Matics_-_Charm_City_Surfer.zip
Friday, November 09, 2007
For The Faithful
Todd Rundgren
Faithful
1976
By request
Todd Rundgren considered 1966 the beginning of his professional musical career, largely because the Nazz formed around that time. As a celebration, he recorded Faithful. Presumably, Faithful celebrates the past and the future by juxtaposing a side of original pop material with a side of covers. Actually, "covers" isn't accurate -- the six oldies that comprise the entirety of side one are re-creations, with Rundgren "faithfully" replicating the sound and feel of the Yardbirds ("Happenings Ten Years Time Ago"), Bob Dylan ("Most Likely You Go Your Way and I'll Go Mine"), Jimi Hendrix ("If Six Was Nine"), the Beach Boys ("Good Vibrations") and the Beatles "("Rain," "Strawberry Fields Forever"). All of this is entertaining, to a certain extent, especially since it's remarkable how close Rundgren comes to duplicating the very feel of the originals. Still, it's hard to see it as much more than a flamboyant throwaway, especially when compared with the glorious second side. For the first time since Something/Anything?, Rundgren allows himself to write and -- more importantly -- record straight-ahead pop songs. Certainly, A Wizard, A True Star, Todd and Initiation had their share of great songs, but they weren't delivered as pop songs; they were telegraphed as art. Here, Rundgren delivers pop and rock songs with ease, letting the melodies glide to the forefront. There are embellishments, of course, but the end result is a lushness that's apparent even on the hard rockers. If Rundgren had made all of Faithful originals, it would have been a pure pop masterpiece. As it stands, it's essential for the faithful -- not only for hardcore Toddheads, but for devoted pop fans as well. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
1 Happenings Ten Years Time Ago
2 Good Vibrations
3 Rain
4 Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I'll Go Mine)
5 If Six Was Nine
6 Strawberry Fields Forever
7 Black and White
8 Love of the Common Man
9 When I Pray
10 Cliché
11 Verb "To Love"
12 Boogies (Hamburger Hell
How Does Your Garden Grow? Ask The Mulchmen
The Mulchmen
Greetings From Planet Stupider
1998
Review
The only thing stupider than a greeting from the planet stupider would be an instro fan not picking up this fine slab of instro delight. The Mulchmen are an immensely talented trio hailing from Dayton. Fitting right in with the mix of things in their sometimes odd and different musical surroundings. The Mulchmen are Nick Kizirnis (cruise director), Brian Hogarth (Co-Pilot) and Gregg Spence (Navigator). I figure that is lead guitar, bass and drums in that order.
Big Beef Records has some prime cuts coming from their studios on this rainbow-colored outing. You can't quantify it as surf yet the influence is echoing in the distance. This is instrumental rock. How do you stick a group like this in a particular genre? You just can't. Tabbed as surf-rock, they prove time and again that it's a very narrow description of their diverse sound. Their range is too far into the distant galaxies of instrumental wanderings to be categorized. This is a really good example of how to use your talent and explore and experiment with music. It's much easier to do when you don't have to sing a note. Let the music do the talkin'. It speaks loud and clear and it works.
I found this group and their music to be entirely enjoyable. I am scratching my head and wondering why I haven't heard more of these guys. They really cook. The group never lets up and is in a fine tuned mode of synchronization. Get smarter and listen to "Greetings From Planet Stupider" instro heads!! MUZIKMAN
Big Beef Records has some prime cuts coming from their studios on this rainbow-colored outing. You can't quantify it as surf yet the influence is echoing in the distance. This is instrumental rock. How do you stick a group like this in a particular genre? You just can't. Tabbed as surf-rock, they prove time and again that it's a very narrow description of their diverse sound. Their range is too far into the distant galaxies of instrumental wanderings to be categorized. This is a really good example of how to use your talent and explore and experiment with music. It's much easier to do when you don't have to sing a note. Let the music do the talkin'. It speaks loud and clear and it works.
I found this group and their music to be entirely enjoyable. I am scratching my head and wondering why I haven't heard more of these guys. They really cook. The group never lets up and is in a fine tuned mode of synchronization. Get smarter and listen to "Greetings From Planet Stupider" instro heads!! MUZIKMAN
1. Delta Velocity
2. Backscratcher
3. Spank The Lightning
4. The Stalker
5. Go-Go Boot Camp
6. Pocketful Of Pennies
7. Yek-259
8. Lowdown
9. Automatic Egypt
10. Tiddytwister
11. Demanding The Impossible
12. Shadow Walk
13. Ripchord
14. Dr. Cyclops/Danger Todd Robinson
http://rapidshare.com/files/68601583/The_Mulchmen_-_Greetings_from_Planet_Stupider.rar
Gentlemen's Blues Club
Shotgun Wedding Collectors Edition
2006
GBC - America's Kick-Ass Blues Rock Band
Mick Stover and Dave Osti, the core members of Gentlemen’s Blues Club, have been band mates and friends since they met years ago during an audition in Los Angeles. Over the years they collaborated regularly and have played together in over a dozen bands. During the ‘90s, while Dave Osti was enjoying a successful solo career, Mick Stover was recording albums and touring the world with international blues icon BB Chung King, including tours with Gilby Clarke and “the King of the Blues”, BB King.When offered a chance to produce albums for Manifest Destiny Records, Mick asked his old friend Dave to sing, play guitar, and co-write songs for GBC. Mick then recruited some of his über-talented music industry friends to back them up on the album. Teddy Zigzag (Guns & Roses, Alice Cooper), Philip Sayce (Melissa Ethridge, Jeff Healey), David Raven (Iggy Pop, Ricky Martin), and Frank Simes (Don Henley, Mick Jagger) made guest appearances on GBC tracks and play live with the band from time to time.The 1st album, “Shotgun Wedding”, was released to critical acclaim and was embraced by radio audiences around the globe. FM and Internet radio stations in the US, Canada, Great Britain, Germany, France, Holland, Croatia, Macedonia, Belgium, Norway, and Italy soon added songs from Shotgun Wedding to their playlists. As a result, GBC released 2 more albums - “Longhorn Honeymoon” and “Collector’s Edition.” Complimenting the vibrant, well-crafted CDs is an exciting and unforgettable live show. From the initial licks of the opening intro riff to the emotional climax of the encore, each GBC concert is a no-holds-barred celebration of musical synergy. Every time they perform, GBC makes good on their promise to put on a high-energy, jaw-dropping, take-no-prisoners performance that leaves audiences proclaiming “THESE GENTLEMEN KICK ASS!”
1 Dust Broom
2 Shotgun Wedding
3 Like the Thorn Protects the Rose
4 The Bastard
5 Living at the Aztec Hotel
6 White Room
7 Lyndell Shuffle
8 Whipping Post
9 The Gift of Life
10 Miser Blues
11 Since I've Been Loving You (Live Version)
12 Dust Broom (Live Version)
13 Shotgun Wedding (Live Version)
14 White Room (Sonic Assault Mix feat. Philip Sayce)
15 Lyndell Shuffle (Harpe Diem Mix feat. Kellie Rucker)
2 Shotgun Wedding
3 Like the Thorn Protects the Rose
4 The Bastard
5 Living at the Aztec Hotel
6 White Room
7 Lyndell Shuffle
8 Whipping Post
9 The Gift of Life
10 Miser Blues
11 Since I've Been Loving You (Live Version)
12 Dust Broom (Live Version)
13 Shotgun Wedding (Live Version)
14 White Room (Sonic Assault Mix feat. Philip Sayce)
15 Lyndell Shuffle (Harpe Diem Mix feat. Kellie Rucker)
Thursday, November 08, 2007
The Bridge of Sighs
Bridge of Sighs (Expanded Edition)
1974
Pic over the album cover is the real Bridge of Sighs in Venice,Italy. It goes from the Doge's Palace, over the canal and to the prison on the other side. It was named Bridge of Sighs due to the anguished cries of those on their way to the pokey. My grandson Gage and I made sure to make a heavy sigh during our walkover. I also turned him on the the Robin Trower track that I just happened to have on the trusty iPod. He thought it was a bit too slow. I don't think we ever paid that much attention to the speed of this song. It was far to trippy of a tune to care much in our altered states.
Guitarist Robin Trower's watershed sophomore solo disc remains his most stunning, representative, and consistent collection of tunes. This 24-bit digitally remastered 25th anniversary reissue, which tacks on five live tracks adding nearly 25 minutes to the original playing time, actually improves upon the original. Mixing obvious Hendrix influences with blues and psychedelia, then adding the immensely soulful vocals of James Dewer, Robin Trower pushed the often limited boundaries of the power trio concept into refreshing new waters. The concept gels best in the first track, "Day of the Eagle," where the opening riff rocking morphs into the dreamy washes of gooey guitar chords that characterize the album's distinctive title track that follows. At his best, Trower's gauzy sheets of oozing, wistful sound and subtle use of wah-wah combine with Dewer's whisky-soaked soul-drenched vocals to take a song like the wistful ballad "In This Place" into orbit. "Too Rolling Stoned," another highlight and one of the most covered tracks from this album, adds throbbing, subtle funk to the mix, changing tempos midway to a slow, forceful amble on top of which Trower lays his quicksilver guitar. The live tracks, although similar to the album versions, prove that even without overdubs and the safety of the studio, Trower and band easily convey the same feel, and add a slightly rougher edge, along with some low-key, crowd-pleasing flourishes. One of the few Trower albums without a weak cut, and in 2000, unfortunately one of the only ones still in print in the U.S., Bridge of Sighs holds up to repeated listenings as a timeless work, as well as the crown jewel in Robin Trower's extensive yet inconsistent catalog. ~ Hal Horowitz, All Music Guide
1
Day of the Eagle
2
Bridge of Sighs
3
In This Place
4
Fool and Me
5
Too Rolling Stoned
6
About to Begin
7
Lady Love
8
Little Bit of Sympathy
9
Day of the Eagle (Live)
10
Bridge of Sighs (Live)
11
Too Rolling Stoned (Live)
12
Lady Love (Live)
13
Little Bit of Sympathy (Live)
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