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CD Reviews archive - S
Contents:
~ Shake City self-titled debut album
~ Silver Dirt Sonic Boom
~ Sister Hyde self-titled debut album
~ Snew Snew You
~ Space Cretins Direct From The Superfreak Highway
~ Suite 88 self-titled debut album
~ Shake City self-titled debut album
~ Silver Dirt Sonic Boom
~ Sister Hyde self-titled debut album
~ Snew Snew You
~ Space Cretins Direct From The Superfreak Highway
~ Suite 88 self-titled debut album
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Review of:
Shake City's self-titled
album (2009)
Reviewed by Shane Strychnine on August 13, 2009
CD provided courtesy of Eonian Records.
Tracks:
1. One Good Reason
2. Hot Love
3. Betty Blue
4. Get It While It's Hot
5. Submarine
6. Little Lianne
7. Lust & Love
8. Psychedelic Ride
9. Sweet Dreams
10. Can't Get Over You
11. Game of War
12. Bad on Wheels
"Shaking It Up With Shake City"
In the mess that was the Sunset Strip in late '80s came a band that embodied the feel and the sound the best, Shake City. Named after Southern California's less than stable ground, Shake City does shake things up a bit.
Before Warrant hit their stride in the '80s they were fronted by a man named Adam Shore. Shore would be replaced by Jani Lane and would go on to form Hot Wheelz with Cue guitarist Don E. Sachs, in 1986. Hot Wheelz would eventually turn into the sleaze rockers, Shake City, in 1987.
The first track, "One Good Reason," will lead the listener in with hooks reminiscent of another '80s band. That band is Black N' Blue. Why, the listener might ask? That is because Black N' Blue's own Tommy Thayer, who now plays in Kiss, helped write that track, and "Hot Love," on this album. The vibe from the late '80s is all over this record, especially in the ballads, "Sweet Dreams," "Little Lianne" and "Can't Get Over You," which will remind the listener of their times as a teenager chasing after the girl they wanted, only to get their heart broken.
On this self-titled album there are songs that just ooze blues-driven sleaze rock like the tracks "Get It While It's Hot" and "Bad On Wheels." Shake City also brings that aggressive driving rock sound in the songs "Game Of War," "Betty Blue," and "Submarine."
Throughout the '80s there were many bands like Shake City that went unnoticed and faded off into oblivion, but are now seeing a resurgence, and a second chance at something they might have missed in the '80s. If anyone out there is a true fan of the '80s Sunset Strip sound they will like Shake City.
They are keeping the hair big, and the sound even bigger, some 22, almost 23 years later. Relive those "back in the day" days with Shake City, they do not disappoint.
You can now purchase Shake City
through Amazon.com. And, for more about this band and others like it, check out Eonian Records and the Shake City MySpace page.
Review of:
Shake City's self-titled
album (2009)
Reviewed by Shane Strychnine on August 13, 2009
CD provided courtesy of Eonian Records.
Tracks:
1. One Good Reason
2. Hot Love
3. Betty Blue
4. Get It While It's Hot
5. Submarine
6. Little Lianne
7. Lust & Love
8. Psychedelic Ride
9. Sweet Dreams
10. Can't Get Over You
11. Game of War
12. Bad on Wheels
"Shaking It Up With Shake City"
In the mess that was the Sunset Strip in late '80s came a band that embodied the feel and the sound the best, Shake City. Named after Southern California's less than stable ground, Shake City does shake things up a bit.
Before Warrant hit their stride in the '80s they were fronted by a man named Adam Shore. Shore would be replaced by Jani Lane and would go on to form Hot Wheelz with Cue guitarist Don E. Sachs, in 1986. Hot Wheelz would eventually turn into the sleaze rockers, Shake City, in 1987.
The first track, "One Good Reason," will lead the listener in with hooks reminiscent of another '80s band. That band is Black N' Blue. Why, the listener might ask? That is because Black N' Blue's own Tommy Thayer, who now plays in Kiss, helped write that track, and "Hot Love," on this album. The vibe from the late '80s is all over this record, especially in the ballads, "Sweet Dreams," "Little Lianne" and "Can't Get Over You," which will remind the listener of their times as a teenager chasing after the girl they wanted, only to get their heart broken.
On this self-titled album there are songs that just ooze blues-driven sleaze rock like the tracks "Get It While It's Hot" and "Bad On Wheels." Shake City also brings that aggressive driving rock sound in the songs "Game Of War," "Betty Blue," and "Submarine."
Throughout the '80s there were many bands like Shake City that went unnoticed and faded off into oblivion, but are now seeing a resurgence, and a second chance at something they might have missed in the '80s. If anyone out there is a true fan of the '80s Sunset Strip sound they will like Shake City.
They are keeping the hair big, and the sound even bigger, some 22, almost 23 years later. Relive those "back in the day" days with Shake City, they do not disappoint.
You can now purchase Shake City
through Amazon.com. And, for more about this band and others like it, check out Eonian Records and the Shake City MySpace page.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review of:
Silver Dirt's "Sonic Boom"
December 22, 2008
This week we featured one of the best bands I've heard lately, Silver Dirt! If you like your rock 'n' roll infused with one part glam, two parts sleaze, 1/2 part punk, two parts blues, two parts raunchiness, and 2 1/2 parts classic old school rock, then this band is for you. They're inspired by the likes of Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, vintage Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones, vintage KISS, The Who, The Ramones, and Iggy Pop. However, their sound is very much their own. This is not a band that, when you hear them, will cause you to say, "Oh, they sound just like....." They are completely original and they kick ass!
Before I tell you more about Silver Dirt, I want to tell you to be sure and read the transcript of my interview with front man, Silver Steff.
And, since they were our Spotlight Band of the Week during the Christmas holiday, here is a Christmas picture from the band. I'm sure they joined me in wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Photos by: www.mcdphoto.ch Used with permission. Courtesy: Silver Dirt
I'll start with a little history and an introduction of the band. Silver Dirt formed in 2004 in Switzerland, and the members include Silver Steff on lead vocals, Dirty Lyo on lead guitar and vocals, Dirty Seb on bass and vocals, and Silver Gregg on drums and vocals.
The band has performed over 50 shows in Switzerland in two years time, including stints opening for Gilby Clarke and Tracii Guns' Brides of Destruction. Silver Dirt was also selected for the Swiss Metal Battle which includes the very best metal and hard rock bands in Switzerland. In addition, they've garnered much media interest both locally and internationally. They've been interviewed, and have had reviews written about their CD's and live shows in over 100 articles in publications, both print and electronic, from countries such as their home country Switzerland, the U.K., France, and the U.S.
Silver Dirt recorded a five song demo CD in 2005. In 2006 they were featured on a compilation C
D entitled "Hollywood Hairspray 5" that was released worldwide by Perris Records (U.S.A.). More importantly, they released their first album, "Sonic Boom", which the guys produced themselves. This CD was released in Switzerland, France, and the U.S. They also shot a live DVD, "Sonic Live" that was released in 2007. In addition, their song, "Go, She Said", was included on a CD sampler put out by Hard Rock magazine. Silver Dirt was included on a couple more compilations as well, one a Perris Records CD, "Network", and the other a French compilation, "Glamarama".
Now a word about their music. Silver Dirt produces high octane rock 'n' roll that will easily appeal to rock fans both young and old, because of it's mix of modern sleaze with old school sensibilities. Their song, "Go! She Said", has that sleazy aspect to it, but with a driving beat that makes you want to get up, get out, and go party like a brain damaged test monkey. Silver Steff's whiskey drenched vocals are a perfect fit for this band's style. And, the guitar work, especially the solos, by the very talented Dirty Lyo are classic and bluesy with an ode to all the greatest rock 'n' roll guitarists of the past. The Rolling Stones and early Aerosmith influences are quite evident in Lyo's guitar playing. As I listened to their music I kept finding myself saying, "Hell yeah!" One minute I was listening to the heavy "Angel With Silver Wings" with it's Zeppelin influenced sound, a bit psychadelic, featuring that bluesy guitar and Silver Gregg's Bonham-like drumming. Next, I was listening to an AC/DC inspired rock anthem entitled, "About Rock 'N' Roll". Then there's the very sleazy, "Last Exit/Voodoo Land" heavily driven by Silver Gregg's drums and Dirty Seb's thumping bass. This song does its job by conjuring up images of a
voodoo ritual. I really enjoyed the subtle southern rock sound of "Wasted Dream".
It's Lyo's guitar work that gives the song its southern flavor. I just love his style! The band really picks up the pace with tracks like "Mean Machine", which put an image in my mind of a Harley hauling ass down a two-lane blacktop, and "Zero Gravity", with its punk influenced sound. "Zero Gravity" is what I call hot-rod music. I can see this song playing during a drag racing scene in a movie, and if you are listening to it while driving down the freeway, you better have your ass in the fast lane. The next song I heard was "She's Got to Be". It has a definite Ramones feel to it; very cool. Finally, I listened to their new single from their soon to be released second album. The song, "Somebody Help Me" is another great song by a great band. In fact, there was not one single song I heard that I didn't like. That is a rarity. If you like Izzy Stradlin's solo stuff, Gilby Clarke, and/or The Casanovas, you're going to love this band with it's down and dirty, raunchy rock and roll. Silver Steff's vocal's are superb, and Dirty Lyo's killer riffs and solos bring a smile to my face. Their music lifts my spirits and that's what I look for in great rock n' roll. I can't say enough good things about Silver Dirt. I highly recommend this band and if they are able to be heard by a larger audience, I have no doubt they'll make it big. And, after speaking with lead vocalist, Silver Steff, I was greatly impressed by his determination, drive, and passion, along with a professionalism I've only seen in the biggest of rock stars. So, if the rest of the band has those same qualities, they will go far indeed.
That being said, the future looks very good for this awesome band. They announced in November that they've just been signed to Gofannon Records (France) and that their new album will be released sometime during the spring of 2009. They will also be touring Europe and the U.S. next year, so be sure to see them if they come to your town. But, I'll let you read my interview with Silver Steff to find out more about Silver Dirt's future plans.
In the meantime, for more information and to hear their music you can visit their web site, silverdirt.com, or check out their MySpace page, www.myspace.com/silverdirt . The new song, "Somebody Help Me", can be heard on the music player on Gofannon Records MySpace page at www.myspace.com/gofannonrecords .
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review of:
Silver Dirt's "Sonic Boom"
December 22, 2008
This week we featured one of the best bands I've heard lately, Silver Dirt! If you like your rock 'n' roll infused with one part glam, two parts sleaze, 1/2 part punk, two parts blues, two parts raunchiness, and 2 1/2 parts classic old school rock, then this band is for you. They're inspired by the likes of Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, vintage Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones, vintage KISS, The Who, The Ramones, and Iggy Pop. However, their sound is very much their own. This is not a band that, when you hear them, will cause you to say, "Oh, they sound just like....." They are completely original and they kick ass!
Before I tell you more about Silver Dirt, I want to tell you to be sure and read the transcript of my interview with front man, Silver Steff.
And, since they were our Spotlight Band of the Week during the Christmas holiday, here is a Christmas picture from the band. I'm sure they joined me in wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Photos by: www.mcdphoto.ch Used with permission. Courtesy: Silver Dirt
I'll start with a little history and an introduction of the band. Silver Dirt formed in 2004 in Switzerland, and the members include Silver Steff on lead vocals, Dirty Lyo on lead guitar and vocals, Dirty Seb on bass and vocals, and Silver Gregg on drums and vocals.
The band has performed over 50 shows in Switzerland in two years time, including stints opening for Gilby Clarke and Tracii Guns' Brides of Destruction. Silver Dirt was also selected for the Swiss Metal Battle which includes the very best metal and hard rock bands in Switzerland. In addition, they've garnered much media interest both locally and internationally. They've been interviewed, and have had reviews written about their CD's and live shows in over 100 articles in publications, both print and electronic, from countries such as their home country Switzerland, the U.K., France, and the U.S.
Silver Dirt recorded a five song demo CD in 2005. In 2006 they were featured on a compilation C
D entitled "Hollywood Hairspray 5" that was released worldwide by Perris Records (U.S.A.). More importantly, they released their first album, "Sonic Boom", which the guys produced themselves. This CD was released in Switzerland, France, and the U.S. They also shot a live DVD, "Sonic Live" that was released in 2007. In addition, their song, "Go, She Said", was included on a CD sampler put out by Hard Rock magazine. Silver Dirt was included on a couple more compilations as well, one a Perris Records CD, "Network", and the other a French compilation, "Glamarama".Now a word about their music. Silver Dirt produces high octane rock 'n' roll that will easily appeal to rock fans both young and old, because of it's mix of modern sleaze with old school sensibilities. Their song, "Go! She Said", has that sleazy aspect to it, but with a driving beat that makes you want to get up, get out, and go party like a brain damaged test monkey. Silver Steff's whiskey drenched vocals are a perfect fit for this band's style. And, the guitar work, especially the solos, by the very talented Dirty Lyo are classic and bluesy with an ode to all the greatest rock 'n' roll guitarists of the past. The Rolling Stones and early Aerosmith influences are quite evident in Lyo's guitar playing. As I listened to their music I kept finding myself saying, "Hell yeah!" One minute I was listening to the heavy "Angel With Silver Wings" with it's Zeppelin influenced sound, a bit psychadelic, featuring that bluesy guitar and Silver Gregg's Bonham-like drumming. Next, I was listening to an AC/DC inspired rock anthem entitled, "About Rock 'N' Roll". Then there's the very sleazy, "Last Exit/Voodoo Land" heavily driven by Silver Gregg's drums and Dirty Seb's thumping bass. This song does its job by conjuring up images of a
voodoo ritual. I really enjoyed the subtle southern rock sound of "Wasted Dream".
It's Lyo's guitar work that gives the song its southern flavor. I just love his style! The band really picks up the pace with tracks like "Mean Machine", which put an image in my mind of a Harley hauling ass down a two-lane blacktop, and "Zero Gravity", with its punk influenced sound. "Zero Gravity" is what I call hot-rod music. I can see this song playing during a drag racing scene in a movie, and if you are listening to it while driving down the freeway, you better have your ass in the fast lane. The next song I heard was "She's Got to Be". It has a definite Ramones feel to it; very cool. Finally, I listened to their new single from their soon to be released second album. The song, "Somebody Help Me" is another great song by a great band. In fact, there was not one single song I heard that I didn't like. That is a rarity. If you like Izzy Stradlin's solo stuff, Gilby Clarke, and/or The Casanovas, you're going to love this band with it's down and dirty, raunchy rock and roll. Silver Steff's vocal's are superb, and Dirty Lyo's killer riffs and solos bring a smile to my face. Their music lifts my spirits and that's what I look for in great rock n' roll. I can't say enough good things about Silver Dirt. I highly recommend this band and if they are able to be heard by a larger audience, I have no doubt they'll make it big. And, after speaking with lead vocalist, Silver Steff, I was greatly impressed by his determination, drive, and passion, along with a professionalism I've only seen in the biggest of rock stars. So, if the rest of the band has those same qualities, they will go far indeed.That being said, the future looks very good for this awesome band. They announced in November that they've just been signed to Gofannon Records (France) and that their new album will be released sometime during the spring of 2009. They will also be touring Europe and the U.S. next year, so be sure to see them if they come to your town. But, I'll let you read my interview with Silver Steff to find out more about Silver Dirt's future plans.In the meantime, for more information and to hear their music you can visit their web site, silverdirt.com, or check out their MySpace page, www.myspace.com/silverdirt . The new song, "Somebody Help Me", can be heard on the music player on Gofannon Records MySpace page at www.myspace.com/gofannonrecords .
Back to top of page
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Review of:
Sister Hyde's
self-titled debut album
Reviewed by Tawny Khat on March 15, 2009
CD design by Van Brown
Photos by Soma
Provided courtesy of Sister Hyde
Tracks:
1. You Look Better On MySpace
2. I'm Not A Victim
3. I'm Your Fan
4. Isolate
5. I Like It With The Lights On
6. Pills and Liquor
7. The Movers and the Shakers
8. Surfin' On Napalm
9. Sinner
10. Beautiful Tonight
11. Rolla Costa
12. Corporate Guru
13. The Malice In People
14. Punk Is Dead
15. Jennifer Maerz's Best Friend
16. What You Want
17. Reel Tuff Dude
One of the best things about my line of work is the excitement of coming across truly great music. If you rely on the mainstream corporate recording industry to bring you good music, you'll be waiting forever and you'll miss out on gems like Sister Hyde. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that Hyde, who writes all the band's music and lyrics and is the band's vocalist and lead guitarist, is a genius! This is hands down the most completely original album I've heard in many years.
Hyde has a way of taking the best from 70s glam bands and musicians like the New York Dolls, David Bowie and T. Rex, and combining that with the hottest punk sounds from groups like the Sex Pistols, The Ramones and Iggy Pop, then bringing all of that into the 21st century for a thoroughly modern feel. This is a sound the band aptly calls "glitterpunk".
The album features 17 tracks, but you'll find no filler here. From songs like "I'm Your Fan", which would have been a perfect fit in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show", to the "Corporate Guru", a frenetic punk song that the Sex Pistols would've loved to have recorded, every song on this album will grab your attention and draw you in.
This CD is filled with wicked, crunchy, nasty guitars and Hyde's sleazy vocals that are at once sensuous and dangerous. Some of the highlights include "I Like It With The Lights On", a sleazy glam tune with a great beat and erotic lyrics, "Pills and Liquor", a pretty much straight ahead rocker, "The Movers and the Shakers", with its awesome catchy beat, bluesy guitar solo and harmonica (I love harmonica), "Surfin' On Napalm", "Sinner", "The Malice In People", "What You Want", "Reel Tuff Dude", and, of course, the comedic "You Look Better On MySpace".
I feel sure that Sister Hyde is on the precipice of bigger things to come; that if they get the proper coverage and exposure they will explode onto the scene. It's only a matter of time.
To listen to some of their songs and for info about how to get your hands on their CD, go to Sister Hyde's MySpace page. The more you listen, the more you'll love it!
Review of:
Sister Hyde's
self-titled debut album
Reviewed by Tawny Khat on March 15, 2009
CD design by Van Brown
Photos by Soma
Provided courtesy of Sister Hyde
Tracks:
1. You Look Better On MySpace
2. I'm Not A Victim
3. I'm Your Fan
4. Isolate
5. I Like It With The Lights On
6. Pills and Liquor
7. The Movers and the Shakers
8. Surfin' On Napalm
9. Sinner
10. Beautiful Tonight
11. Rolla Costa
12. Corporate Guru
13. The Malice In People
14. Punk Is Dead
15. Jennifer Maerz's Best Friend
16. What You Want
17. Reel Tuff Dude
One of the best things about my line of work is the excitement of coming across truly great music. If you rely on the mainstream corporate recording industry to bring you good music, you'll be waiting forever and you'll miss out on gems like Sister Hyde. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that Hyde, who writes all the band's music and lyrics and is the band's vocalist and lead guitarist, is a genius! This is hands down the most completely original album I've heard in many years.
Hyde has a way of taking the best from 70s glam bands and musicians like the New York Dolls, David Bowie and T. Rex, and combining that with the hottest punk sounds from groups like the Sex Pistols, The Ramones and Iggy Pop, then bringing all of that into the 21st century for a thoroughly modern feel. This is a sound the band aptly calls "glitterpunk".
The album features 17 tracks, but you'll find no filler here. From songs like "I'm Your Fan", which would have been a perfect fit in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show", to the "Corporate Guru", a frenetic punk song that the Sex Pistols would've loved to have recorded, every song on this album will grab your attention and draw you in.
This CD is filled with wicked, crunchy, nasty guitars and Hyde's sleazy vocals that are at once sensuous and dangerous. Some of the highlights include "I Like It With The Lights On", a sleazy glam tune with a great beat and erotic lyrics, "Pills and Liquor", a pretty much straight ahead rocker, "The Movers and the Shakers", with its awesome catchy beat, bluesy guitar solo and harmonica (I love harmonica), "Surfin' On Napalm", "Sinner", "The Malice In People", "What You Want", "Reel Tuff Dude", and, of course, the comedic "You Look Better On MySpace".
I feel sure that Sister Hyde is on the precipice of bigger things to come; that if they get the proper coverage and exposure they will explode onto the scene. It's only a matter of time.
To listen to some of their songs and for info about how to get your hands on their CD, go to Sister Hyde's MySpace page. The more you listen, the more you'll love it!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review of:
Snew's debut album,
"Snew You"
Reviewed by: Tawny Khat on January 26, 2009
All photos used with permission.
Courtesy of: Snew
Tracks:
1. Stand Up High
2. Got Love
3. Snew You
4. She's A Real Gunslinger
5. Kick Me Over
6. Head Trauma
7. Electric Is The Law
8. Get It To Go
9. Vibrator
10. Heavy Water
Snew's debut, "Snew You", is an absolute must for anyone craving real rock, the kind of rock 'n' roll that is no frills, straight forward, head bangin', raw, party music like many of us grew up with in the 70s and 80s (the kind a new generation of young rockers, sick of the crap on the radio and MTV, are hungry for). You're not bombarded with politics or world problems with Snew's music. I don't know about you, but if I want to hear about politics or world issues, I watch the news or read news blogs. When I listen to music it's for fun and to forget about problems for a while, which is as it should be. Snew's music is the perfect pressure valve for letting you blow off some steam and have a good time. So, for those nay
sayers who think rock is dead, never fear Snew is here!
The first track, "Stand Up High", is a balls to the wall, full-throttle, high octane song that sounds a bit like some AC/DC, Jackyl and Dangerous Toys were all thrown in a blender with rocket fuel. This track sets the mood and lets you know what you're in for, and what a great mood-setter it is. You're now ready to crank the volume up to ten!
Before you can catch your breath, you're into track two, "Got Love", which is one of the tracks I really like on this album. It's funny, actually, as I'm listening to an album and taking notes I put asterisks next to the songs that really catch my attention, and I found myself putting asterisks next to almost every song on this album. That is a truly rare thing for me, indeed! "Got Love" also has an AC/DC and/or Jackyl feel to it. It's one of those songs you can really shake you ass to. Curtis Don Vito's vocals are amazing on this track. He has a great, gritty rock 'n' roll voice that sounds a bit like Bon Scott and Jesse James Dupree all rolled into one. His voice, along with the straight forward style of Snew's music, is why they draw comparisons to early AC/DC and Jackyl. But, make no mistake, Snew is not just another band in the long list of copy-cat bands down through the years. Although they are compared to other bands, their sound is entirely their own, which is why these guys should go far.
The band's anthem, "Snew You", is the next song on the album. The beginning of the song reminds me of the Ramones, but it quickly merges into a very fast-paced, aggressive, rockin' tune. This song has some cool guitar riffs and a smokin' solo by Snew guitarist, Andy Lux. All the while, the rhythm section, featuring awesome bass lines by Cat Tate, keeps up the frenetic punk rock pace of this track.
Another of my favorite tracks on this album is next. It's called, "She's A Real Gunslinger". Another ass-shakin', AC/DC-like song, this one is hit material. It's got a very catchy chorus, a great beat and infectious guitar riffs. This tune is just plain fan-freakin-tastic!
"Kick Me Over", the next song on the list, is another tune I really liked. In fact, the rest of the songs on the album have my asterisks next to them! This song goes in a different direction, with it's old school, 70s era, groovin' sound. It features another scorching guitar solo by Andy and driving bass lines by Cat that reach deep inside ya.
"Kick Me Over" is followed by "Head Trauma". This steamy, bluesy track probably reminds me more than any other track on this album of AC/DC. It has the feel of AC/DC's "Ride On". This song is flat-out killer, and Curtis shows off his pipes on this one. He really wails at the end of this tune!
The seventh song on the CD is "Electric Is The Law". After the slowdown of the last track, the pace picks up once again with this energy-packed, hard rockin' tune with somewhat of a Jackyl sound. Again, as my readers know, I hate comparing new bands to existing bands, because it makes it seem as though they're just copying another band's sound. Unfortunately, it's also the only way to help people get a picture of what a song sounds like. So, I once again want to reiterate what I've said before. Just because I'm making a comparison to another band, does not mean I think this band sounds just exactly like that band. If I ever think a band is just a copy-cat band, I'll make that very clear in my review. That being said, let me move on here. This track has, once again, some great bass lines from Snew bassist, Cat Tate. I also love the breaks where you hear only the drums and vocals, and the listener is again gifted with a superb guitar solo.
The next track, "Get It To Go", is burning up the asphalt, head banging rock 'n' roll. It features some machine gun paced bass thumpin' and ass kickin' guitar licks. This one will have your adrenaline going for sure.
After bangin' your head you get to slow down and take a breather once again with the next song, "Vibrator". The drums on this track are very cool, courtesy of Snew's percussionist, Mark Ohrenberger. You're also treated to soulful and bluesy guitar solos by Andy. There are even a little bit of keyboards in this track.
The album finishes off on a high note with "Heavy Water". After you're mellowed out by the previous track you get smacked right in the face with this rapid fire tune that's like Motorhead meets Jackyl. It's a thrill a minute ride on the Snew train!
You know, it's so rare to run across an album where every song is good. I don't know how Snew will top themselves in the future, but I can't wait to find out. I can't emphasize more how much every rocker needs this CD in their collection. I know I'm keeping this one in my CD changer for sure!
To get yourself a copy of this killer CD, go to Snew's web site, www.snewyou.com.
Also, don't forget to read my interview with the members of Snew.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review of:
Snew's debut album,
"Snew You"
Reviewed by: Tawny Khat on January 26, 2009
All photos used with permission.
Courtesy of: Snew
Tracks:
1. Stand Up High
2. Got Love
3. Snew You
4. She's A Real Gunslinger
5. Kick Me Over
6. Head Trauma
7. Electric Is The Law
8. Get It To Go
9. Vibrator
10. Heavy Water
Snew's debut, "Snew You", is an absolute must for anyone craving real rock, the kind of rock 'n' roll that is no frills, straight forward, head bangin', raw, party music like many of us grew up with in the 70s and 80s (the kind a new generation of young rockers, sick of the crap on the radio and MTV, are hungry for). You're not bombarded with politics or world problems with Snew's music. I don't know about you, but if I want to hear about politics or world issues, I watch the news or read news blogs. When I listen to music it's for fun and to forget about problems for a while, which is as it should be. Snew's music is the perfect pressure valve for letting you blow off some steam and have a good time. So, for those nay
sayers who think rock is dead, never fear Snew is here!The first track, "Stand Up High", is a balls to the wall, full-throttle, high octane song that sounds a bit like some AC/DC, Jackyl and Dangerous Toys were all thrown in a blender with rocket fuel. This track sets the mood and lets you know what you're in for, and what a great mood-setter it is. You're now ready to crank the volume up to ten!
Before you can catch your breath, you're into track two, "Got Love", which is one of the tracks I really like on this album. It's funny, actually, as I'm listening to an album and taking notes I put asterisks next to the songs that really catch my attention, and I found myself putting asterisks next to almost every song on this album. That is a truly rare thing for me, indeed! "Got Love" also has an AC/DC and/or Jackyl feel to it. It's one of those songs you can really shake you ass to. Curtis Don Vito's vocals are amazing on this track. He has a great, gritty rock 'n' roll voice that sounds a bit like Bon Scott and Jesse James Dupree all rolled into one. His voice, along with the straight forward style of Snew's music, is why they draw comparisons to early AC/DC and Jackyl. But, make no mistake, Snew is not just another band in the long list of copy-cat bands down through the years. Although they are compared to other bands, their sound is entirely their own, which is why these guys should go far.
The band's anthem, "Snew You", is the next song on the album. The beginning of the song reminds me of the Ramones, but it quickly merges into a very fast-paced, aggressive, rockin' tune. This song has some cool guitar riffs and a smokin' solo by Snew guitarist, Andy Lux. All the while, the rhythm section, featuring awesome bass lines by Cat Tate, keeps up the frenetic punk rock pace of this track.
Another of my favorite tracks on this album is next. It's called, "She's A Real Gunslinger". Another ass-shakin', AC/DC-like song, this one is hit material. It's got a very catchy chorus, a great beat and infectious guitar riffs. This tune is just plain fan-freakin-tastic!
"Kick Me Over", the next song on the list, is another tune I really liked. In fact, the rest of the songs on the album have my asterisks next to them! This song goes in a different direction, with it's old school, 70s era, groovin' sound. It features another scorching guitar solo by Andy and driving bass lines by Cat that reach deep inside ya.
"Kick Me Over" is followed by "Head Trauma". This steamy, bluesy track probably reminds me more than any other track on this album of AC/DC. It has the feel of AC/DC's "Ride On". This song is flat-out killer, and Curtis shows off his pipes on this one. He really wails at the end of this tune!
The seventh song on the CD is "Electric Is The Law". After the slowdown of the last track, the pace picks up once again with this energy-packed, hard rockin' tune with somewhat of a Jackyl sound. Again, as my readers know, I hate comparing new bands to existing bands, because it makes it seem as though they're just copying another band's sound. Unfortunately, it's also the only way to help people get a picture of what a song sounds like. So, I once again want to reiterate what I've said before. Just because I'm making a comparison to another band, does not mean I think this band sounds just exactly like that band. If I ever think a band is just a copy-cat band, I'll make that very clear in my review. That being said, let me move on here. This track has, once again, some great bass lines from Snew bassist, Cat Tate. I also love the breaks where you hear only the drums and vocals, and the listener is again gifted with a superb guitar solo.
The next track, "Get It To Go", is burning up the asphalt, head banging rock 'n' roll. It features some machine gun paced bass thumpin' and ass kickin' guitar licks. This one will have your adrenaline going for sure.
After bangin' your head you get to slow down and take a breather once again with the next song, "Vibrator". The drums on this track are very cool, courtesy of Snew's percussionist, Mark Ohrenberger. You're also treated to soulful and bluesy guitar solos by Andy. There are even a little bit of keyboards in this track.
The album finishes off on a high note with "Heavy Water". After you're mellowed out by the previous track you get smacked right in the face with this rapid fire tune that's like Motorhead meets Jackyl. It's a thrill a minute ride on the Snew train!
You know, it's so rare to run across an album where every song is good. I don't know how Snew will top themselves in the future, but I can't wait to find out. I can't emphasize more how much every rocker needs this CD in their collection. I know I'm keeping this one in my CD changer for sure!
To get yourself a copy of this killer CD, go to Snew's web site, www.snewyou.com.
Also, don't forget to read my interview with the members of Snew.
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Review of:
Space Cretins' second release,
"Direct From The
Superfreak Highway"
Reviewed by: Tawny Khat on March 4, 2009
CD cover and photos provided courtesy of the Space Cretins. Band info provided by the "CIA"..................
(Graphic design & layout by PDB. Photos by Generator XXX)
Tracks:
1. Rockets On
2. Plastic
3. Electric Skies
4. Straight to the Edge
5. Alien Eyes
6. Let's Get Spaced Out
7. Future Hoppin'
8. Rocket Roll
9. Master Blaster
10. Hypnotized
11. Merry Christmas Baby
We were provided with info about the Space Cretins through a "CIA" document, which we will display here for your perusal.
This latest offering from the Space Cretins continues the high energy, glam-punk, crazy cosmic ride started with their first CD, "Rocket Roll". If you are a fan of 70s sparkly glam from the likes of Ziggy Stardust and the New York Dolls, and punk from great bands like The Ramones and The Dickies, then you'll love this band. They are originality plus!
On this album, the Space Cretins provide you with ferocious, frenetic, frantic punk rock songs like, "Rockets On", "Plastic", "Electric Skies", "Future Hoppin'", and "Hypnotized". This is rock 'n' roll on rocket fuel! These tunes come at you hard and fast, full of sizzling guitars and in your face drums.
A couple of the tracks on the CD cleverly combine punk with 80s cock-rock sleaze. They are "Rocket Roll" and "Master Blaster". Three other tunes, and my personal favorites from this album, meld punk with 70s glam. One is the mid-tempo ballad, "Alien Eyes". The other two, "Straight to the Edge" and "Let's Get Spaced Out", are a bit more straight ahead rock 'n' roll laced with dirty sleaze.
The last song on "Direct From The Superfreak Highway" is a bit of a surprise. You don't expect to hear a Christmas song on a rock/punk album, but you get one here. The song, entitled "Merry Christmas Baby", is a great rock 'n' roll Christmas tune infused with a bit of punk, a la The Ramones.
With hard rockin', glammed up, spaced-out, punk music like this, one can only imagine what a live show by the Space Cretins is like. I'm very curious to find out for myself!
If you'd like to learn more about the Space Cretins, or buy any of their merchandise or CDs, you can check out their website or their MySpace page.
Review of:
Space Cretins' second release,
"Direct From The
Superfreak Highway"
Reviewed by: Tawny Khat on March 4, 2009
CD cover and photos provided courtesy of the Space Cretins. Band info provided by the "CIA"..................
(Graphic design & layout by PDB. Photos by Generator XXX)
Tracks:
1. Rockets On
2. Plastic
3. Electric Skies
4. Straight to the Edge
5. Alien Eyes
6. Let's Get Spaced Out
7. Future Hoppin'
8. Rocket Roll
9. Master Blaster
10. Hypnotized
11. Merry Christmas Baby
We were provided with info about the Space Cretins through a "CIA" document, which we will display here for your perusal.
This latest offering from the Space Cretins continues the high energy, glam-punk, crazy cosmic ride started with their first CD, "Rocket Roll". If you are a fan of 70s sparkly glam from the likes of Ziggy Stardust and the New York Dolls, and punk from great bands like The Ramones and The Dickies, then you'll love this band. They are originality plus!On this album, the Space Cretins provide you with ferocious, frenetic, frantic punk rock songs like, "Rockets On", "Plastic", "Electric Skies", "Future Hoppin'", and "Hypnotized". This is rock 'n' roll on rocket fuel! These tunes come at you hard and fast, full of sizzling guitars and in your face drums.
A couple of the tracks on the CD cleverly combine punk with 80s cock-rock sleaze. They are "Rocket Roll" and "Master Blaster". Three other tunes, and my personal favorites from this album, meld punk with 70s glam. One is the mid-tempo ballad, "Alien Eyes". The other two, "Straight to the Edge" and "Let's Get Spaced Out", are a bit more straight ahead rock 'n' roll laced with dirty sleaze.
The last song on "Direct From The Superfreak Highway" is a bit of a surprise. You don't expect to hear a Christmas song on a rock/punk album, but you get one here. The song, entitled "Merry Christmas Baby", is a great rock 'n' roll Christmas tune infused with a bit of punk, a la The Ramones.
With hard rockin', glammed up, spaced-out, punk music like this, one can only imagine what a live show by the Space Cretins is like. I'm very curious to find out for myself!
If you'd like to learn more about the Space Cretins, or buy any of their merchandise or CDs, you can check out their website or their MySpace page.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review of:
Suite 88's self-titled debut album (2008)
Reviewed by Tawny Khat on July 8, 2009
Tracks:
1. Ten Shots, Ten Minutes
2. Soul Rider
3. Uptown
4. How It Goes
5. Dead & Gone
6. Heartbreak City
7. Sleazy Susan
8. In The Darkness
9. Rock Me
10. Can't Get Enough (cover)
This is another of those albums that doesn't have a bad song on it. It's filled with plenty of straight up rock and 80s style sleaze, enough to satisfy any rocker's cravings. There's even a fast-paced head bangin' tune, "Soul Rider", for those with a little more of a hard core taste. This tune features a powerhouse rhythm section with Jesse Clutch bangin' the drums and, if I understand correctly, vocalist Mike Gunns thumping out the bass, not to mention a shredding guitar solo by Kolton Lee.
Highlights include "Ten Shots, Ten Minutes" and "Sleazy Susan", as well as "Uptown" and "How It Goes". "Ten Shots, Ten Minutes" shows off Mike Gunns' powerful vocals. With it's catchy chorus, killer guitar solo, 80s style and booze theme, it's a natural to be released as a single. "Sleazy Susan" is also single material. It's got great Van Halen-like guitar riffs and a ripping guitar solo that follows a moaning woman a la Guns N' Roses' "Rocket Queen". Cool bass riffs kick off "Uptown", which also has a nice 80s feel to it, and like many songs from the 80s it's all about partying! "How It Goes" is all about the rock 'n roll lifestyle. A very nice guitar lead-in moves into a song with a great beat.
We've talked about the partying theme (drugs and alcohol) and we've talked about the rock 'n roll theme, so next comes sex and/or relationships to round out the trio of "sex, drugs & rock 'n roll". With that theme are the songs "Dead & Gone" and "Heartbreak City". "Heartbreak City" is the requisite ballad on the album. I'm not usually one for ballads, but I really dig this one. I suppose I like it because there's a bit of a Pretty Boy Floyd feel about it, and I love Pretty Boy Floyd.
Finishing the album is the short acoustic guitar and bass instrumental, "In The Darkness", that leads into "Rock Me". This is not a cover of the Great White song of the same name. Instead, it's a very cool Dokken-esque tune. The last track is a cover of Bad Company's "Can't Get Enough". These guys do an excellent job covering this song, keeping it ohhh sooo close to the original. It's fantastic!
You can hear all these tracks on Suite 88's MySpace page, with the exception of "In The Darkness", so head over there and give them a listen for yourself, and while you're there order yourself a copy of the CD. Also, check out my review of Suite 88's live show and my interview with the band.
Review of:
Suite 88's self-titled debut album (2008)
Reviewed by Tawny Khat on July 8, 2009
Tracks:
1. Ten Shots, Ten Minutes
2. Soul Rider
3. Uptown
4. How It Goes
5. Dead & Gone
6. Heartbreak City
7. Sleazy Susan
8. In The Darkness
9. Rock Me
10. Can't Get Enough (cover)
This is another of those albums that doesn't have a bad song on it. It's filled with plenty of straight up rock and 80s style sleaze, enough to satisfy any rocker's cravings. There's even a fast-paced head bangin' tune, "Soul Rider", for those with a little more of a hard core taste. This tune features a powerhouse rhythm section with Jesse Clutch bangin' the drums and, if I understand correctly, vocalist Mike Gunns thumping out the bass, not to mention a shredding guitar solo by Kolton Lee.
Highlights include "Ten Shots, Ten Minutes" and "Sleazy Susan", as well as "Uptown" and "How It Goes". "Ten Shots, Ten Minutes" shows off Mike Gunns' powerful vocals. With it's catchy chorus, killer guitar solo, 80s style and booze theme, it's a natural to be released as a single. "Sleazy Susan" is also single material. It's got great Van Halen-like guitar riffs and a ripping guitar solo that follows a moaning woman a la Guns N' Roses' "Rocket Queen". Cool bass riffs kick off "Uptown", which also has a nice 80s feel to it, and like many songs from the 80s it's all about partying! "How It Goes" is all about the rock 'n roll lifestyle. A very nice guitar lead-in moves into a song with a great beat.
We've talked about the partying theme (drugs and alcohol) and we've talked about the rock 'n roll theme, so next comes sex and/or relationships to round out the trio of "sex, drugs & rock 'n roll". With that theme are the songs "Dead & Gone" and "Heartbreak City". "Heartbreak City" is the requisite ballad on the album. I'm not usually one for ballads, but I really dig this one. I suppose I like it because there's a bit of a Pretty Boy Floyd feel about it, and I love Pretty Boy Floyd.
Finishing the album is the short acoustic guitar and bass instrumental, "In The Darkness", that leads into "Rock Me". This is not a cover of the Great White song of the same name. Instead, it's a very cool Dokken-esque tune. The last track is a cover of Bad Company's "Can't Get Enough". These guys do an excellent job covering this song, keeping it ohhh sooo close to the original. It's fantastic!
You can hear all these tracks on Suite 88's MySpace page, with the exception of "In The Darkness", so head over there and give them a listen for yourself, and while you're there order yourself a copy of the CD. Also, check out my review of Suite 88's live show and my interview with the band.
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