Broadcasting

Saffire-The Uppity Blues Women

Alligator

Okay... Here's the deal. This is the blues from a middle aged, feminist, point of view. These two women mean business. And although there's a strong sense of humor in their bawdy, slightly raunchy acoustic blues, it's no novelty act. They just be speakin' their minds and closin' them blinds. (CS)

 

Haunted By Real Life

Schascle

Reprise

An outstanding debut from a talented singer/songwriter. Aided by top notch session musicians and a vocal mood recalling the funkiness of Chaka Kahn or the soulful pop of Donna Summer, this one cooks with a tasty mix of Motown styled R&B and L.A. studio savvy. (SC)

 

MSG

Michael Schenker/Robin McAuley

Impact

He's come a long way since the days of UFO and his successful 3 album association with vocalist Robin McAuley is more than proof of that. This set would shame most so-called heavy metal bands, but I'd still like to see UFO get back together and really kick some ass. (SC)

 

Illiterature

Adam Schmitt

Reprise

A couple years ago he released his hot debut disc, toured the country, began recording a follow-up album, got into a severe car accident and ended up in a leg cast. That didn't stop him though. While recovering he managed to produce, engineer, mix and play most of what's here. (BB)

 

World So Bright

Adam Schmitt

Reprise

A wonderfully solid collection of unpretentious engaging pop music. Rich and diverse,bursting with youthful innocence and homemade warmth. A stunning first effort from this accomplished multi-instumentalist with its multi-layered guitar/vocal sound, this is one hot album for a hot summer and beyond. (SC)

 

What We Do

The John Scofield Quartet

Blue Note

He's played in groups led by Miles Davis, Gary Burton, George Duke/Billy Cobham and Gerry Mulligan. Somehow, the poll-winning guitarist still found the time to release eighteen albums over the years. This, his latest group recording features longtime playmates Joe Lovano,Dennis Irwin and Bill Stewart. Cool, hot and tasty. (BB)

 

I Can See Your House From Here

John Scofield & Pat Metheny

Blue Note

Jazz guitarists Scofield and Metheny team up for what will hopefully be a long, if nothing else but, occasional collaboration. Metheny's "wind through the trees" style mixes with Scofields more traditional/bluesy approach with pleasing results. They seem to compliment each other quite nicely, thank you. Well worth checking out. (BB)

 

700 Miles

700 Miles

BMG

When confronted with the sonic density and raw volume produced by these guys, it's hard to believe there's just three of 'em in the middle of all this pandemonium. Recorded in a cavernous Detroit studio with equal amounts of vintage equipment and attitude. Rattle the windows with this one. They did.(SC)

 

Lucky You

The Sextants

Imago

Irresistible melodies, vibrant harmonies, and thoughtful lyrics mark the sign of a great band. The Sextants have all these musical qualities and more. At times their harmonies will remind you of such groups as, the Mamas and Papas. The rest of the time they sound like themselves. And that's good.(CS)

 

Hormonally Yours

Shakespear's Sister

London

Looks like Bob Segar's not the only good thing to happen in the Motor City since Iaccoa retired. A new upbeat pop duo of the female variety has recently burst on the scene. Vocally they at times resemble Chrissy Hynde but musically it's pure pop and well done at that. (SC)

 

Rock On!

Del Shannon

MCA

Another one bites the dust. Just before he left us, this, possibly his finest album was recorded. One question remains. Were has he been all these years? Judging from the tunes included here, he should've been all over the radio for the past two decades. Or at least been a Wilbury. (SC)

 

Hard Travelin'

Dave Sharp

I.R.S.

Debut album from Alarm guitarist Sharp, who spent the better part of a year cruising the backroads of America. Armed with his guitars and the back seat of a friendly vehicle for transportation, he comes home with an original album that rivals the best of Bob Dylan's early acoustic works.(SC)

 

In The Land Of The Crossroads

Eddie Shaw

Rooster Blues

He's played tenor saxophone with the likes of Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf and now fronts his own band. Originally from the Mississippi Delta, Eddie moved to Chicago almost 40 years ago and the rest is history. He often performs Monday nights at the Tradewinds in Rockland. Don't miss him. (BB)

 

When I Was A Boy

Jane Siberry

Reprise

She'll delight you with her inventive pop tunes,then hit you between the eyes with intense, emotional songs about love and death. At times it may seem hard to get through the latter but don't let that stop you, the rewards outweigh any initial discomfort. Good for what ails you. (CS)

 

Dance To The Holyman

The Silencers

RCA

The third release for this Scottish band of "critics darlings" offers ringing guitars in a Celtic folk/rock/psychedelic/blues stew. From the mournful,"One inch of heaven" and Beatlesque,"Mr. bank manager" to the Fixx-ish,"This is serious", stark, buoyant and delightfully listenable "Dance..." reveals more in every play. (SC)

 

Like Stars n My Hands

Single Gun Theory

Nettwork/I.R.S.

Weaving a hypnotic maze, this Austrailian band mixes sampled keyboards with ethereal vocals in a mesh of eastern and western styles that rivals the finest silk. Mesmerizing as well as satisfying. Enya meets the Tangerine Dream while visiting Peter Gabriel. Reveals more substance with each listen. Hauntingly delicate. (SC)

 

Heart And Mind

Sister Double Happiness

Reprise

The cover and name are deceiving. What appears to be a "10,000 Maniacs" clone is instead a driving four piece outfit from San Francisco. The "Nose To The Grindstone," theory definitely applies here. While not redefining Rock and Roll, they give it a good jab with a cattle prod. YEE - HAH! (SC)

 

Fast Food Funkateers

S,lapb,ak

Reprise

I loved this the minute the laser lit the disc. You will too, if a band that sounds like, Sly And The Family Stone and George Clinton, with a little Prince thrown in for good measure is up your alley. Besides, anyone who wears crazy glasses like George, must be O.K. (BB)

 

Little Victories

Darden Smith

Chaos

With the release of his third album this singer/songwriter from Austin, Texas has changed gears again. Opting for a mellower pop sound with folk/rock roots, he's smoothed the rough edges that marked his last major label effort. The writing is as strong as ever as is his performance. Nice. (CS)

 

Native Soil

Darden Smith

Watermelon

Recently reissued debut album from an Austin, Texas based singer/songwriter. He's had two other releases on a major label. But, this self-produced effort rings with a little more country than his current folk/rock excursions. Having Lyle Lovett and Nanci Griffith singing background vocals doesn't hurt either. Good stuff.(BB)

 

Change Your World

Michael W. Smith

Geffen

Prince-like pop done by a white boy. This will probably be all over the radio, but don't let that stop you. There's a bit of substance here that's worth picking up on, dancable or not and most of it is. A new George Michael perhaps? Who knows. If this sounds like good news, then rush right out and buy it. (SC)

 

 

Dirty

Sonic Youth

DGC

A good dose of grunge from the, "Garage Band From Hell." They've refined the sludge a little bit, but really not that much. If you would like to annoy your neighbors, buy this one and point the speakers in their direction. Don't forget. Bang your head, slam dance and have fun. (BB)

 

Good To Be Gone

Soulhat

Epic

A few years ago Seattle defined the alternative scene. Nowadays that hotbed has shifted southeast to Atlanta. These guys have recorded one other album (at least) and I'm guessing it's as solid as this one. Their sound is a composite of Pearl Jam and Widespread Panic with a twist. Yummy. (BB)

 

Dream Your Life Away

Spanic Boys

Rounder

With the release of their fourth album this father and son team continue to carry the torch of rock'n'roll. Pop hooks, twangy harmonies and thundering twin telecasters are what we've got here. Call it what you will (roots rock, revival rock) you can rest assured that it's the real thing. (BB)

 

Strange World

Spanic Boys

Rounder

Tom Petty And Jeff Lynne can't hold a candle to this Father and Son team no matter how hard they want to try. At first listen this may seem like '50s shtick, but play it again and the passion and originality shine through. This one's a MUST have. Find it, NOW! (SC)

 

The Spent Poets

The Spent Poets

Geffen

The best description for this would be 10cc on a bad acid trip. But that doesn't mean it's not wonderful, just VERY different at times. Building heavily on a pop foundation they add dialog and sound effects in the right places to catch you off guard. Worth many a listen. (SC)

 

High As A Kite

St * Johnny

Caroline

Four guys from Hartford, Connecticut who make a humongous racket that'll warm your heart and clean out the cobwebs. (I like loud with that first cup of coffee, it's a real eye opener.) A compilation of their first two indie singles plus four unreleased tunes. Look for their new album on Geffen. (BB)

 

Speed Is Dreaming

St Johnny

Geffen

A self-produced major label debut from the four piece Hartford, Connecticut band who play with a precise fury and abandon. Guitars churn, wail and are otherwise abused while a rock solid rhythm section clamors and percolates, cumulating into a glorious racket. Crank it up with that first cup of coffee. Who needs Coast ? (SC)

 

Ungod

Stabbing Westward

Columbia

Debut from a Chicago-based quintet who practice a compelling, noisy and dark form of music that skirts the edge of industrial/metal scene. The lyrics are from some twisted hell of pain, drugs and betrayal. This stuff is great loud and will certainly annoy the neighbors every time you crank it up. (CS)

 

Stripped

Stage Dolls

Polydor

When's the last time you heard of a band from Norway? I can't remember one either, but then again, I've lost a bunch of brain cells over the years. These guys aren't too shabby. Basic no frills rock and roll, lots of enthusiasm and a desire to make decent music. (SC)

 

Mexican R'N'B

The Stairs

London

Recorded in glorious MONO, some song titles suggest the use of, "trendy chemical amusement aids." Their sound is similar to '60s rock when drug use was acceptable. Find your biggest room, place the speakers at one end, crank it up, run to the other with the remote and punch,"play." (SC)

 

Fireworks

Chris Stamey

Rhino

Absolutely marvelous non-disposible pop from a former member of the quintessential late '70s pop band, The DB's. You'll be playing this one over and over. After hearing this it becomes obvious that this guy has a problem. He's always ahead of his time. Play it loud and long. (SC)

 

Real Love

Lisa Stansfield

Arista

British pop/soul diva returns after a platinum debut album with proof that the first time was no fluke. Or was it. Aside from the first single,"Change" and a couple other R&B rooted tunes, there's more "pop" than soul here which may be her downfall. Chaka Kahn she isn't. (SC)

 

Like One

Leni Stern

Lipstick

Wow, a female jazz guitarist. Now, there's something you don't see everyday. Wife of guitarist Mike Stern, Leni has already released five albums and if this disc is any indication, she's been blowing his doors off for some time. I, for one, will be tracking down her back catalog. You should too. (CS)

 

Is What Is

Mike Stern

Atlantic Jazz

This may be the best thing he's done in the past few years and that might not be saying too much. Before I speak prematurely, let me tell you where I'm coming from. The past two or three albums he's released have been pretty awful. This could be the beginning of something good. (BB)

 

Curtis Stigers

Curtis Stigers

Arista

Has more than the potential to be a soulful, gutsy belter. He puts Michael Bolton to shame. And it's no wonder, judging from the ranks of well honed session players that jumped to play on this debut. P.S.- Curtis need not learn to wail a mean sax, he knows. (SC)

 

Stigmata A Go Go

Stigmata A Go Go

Pow Wow

A trio from New York who tread the thin line between punk and the darker side of power pop. Sarcastic tales of sex, violence and drugs protrude from within the raucous clamor. Joey Ramone came up with their name and Bob Mould produced their first single. Need I say more? (BB)

 

Sam Stryke

In The Wind

Atlantic

The first release from this 20 year old keyboard whiz is a relaxing composite of new age keyboard form, mingled with classical sonata overtones. Lush, melodic, it is without hint of the lackluster that often surrounds the vein of this musical style. Similar to George Winston with a little "Oomph". (SC)

 

Womb Amnesia

Subject To Change

Capitol

Six people from L.A. playing funk/rock music with a socio-political message and a sometimes radical feminist point of view. (Check out "You Can Be My Lover" the ultimate castration song) They remind me of Sly and the Family Stone in a way, but with a female perspective. Good stuff, this. (BB)

 

Howlin'

The Sundogs

Rounder

Rocking with a blend of Cajun, Zydeco, reggae and New Orleans R&B, these guys will have you out of your chair and ready to boogie in a minute. They've successfully carried the energy of their live show into the recording studio without missing a beat. A guaranteed good time. (SC)

 

SupersaxPlays Bird

Supersax

Capitol Jazz

Reissue of an affectionately assembled 70's Charlie Parker tribute album featuring a full sax section reproducing old "ad-lib" Parker solos note for note. An interesting concept worth hearing but one that wears thin after a few listens. Recommended for hardcore "Bird" fans or curious jazz aficionados. (SC)

 

Blow

Swallow

4AD

Another band with a fuzzy wash of guitars, breathless female vocals and a drum machine. If you like, "My Bloody Valentine" or "Curve," the debut from this duo will be a welcome addition to your collection. Although they're not loud like the other two groups, their overall sound is similar. (SC)

 

Surfin' In Harlem

Swamp Dogg

Volt

Here's a dose of good time, funky, rock and roll. There's no need to think about it 'cause there isn't really any message. Put on the dancin' shoes and boogie. That's it. If you want to hear somebody whine about inner city turmoil go out and buy a rap album. (SC)

 

Girlfriend

Matthew Sweet

Zoo

Take a healthy dose of chunky, crunchy guitar, stir in a strong sense of melody and this is what you'll end up with. A wonderfully loud, slightly obnoxious set of songs that are just right. If this isn't the best "pop" album released this past year, I don't know what is. (SC)

 

41

Swell

American Psyco-Specific

I've said it before, (with their last release) I'll say it again. These folks are certainly THE Velvet Underground for these troubled times. What's even ultimately cooler, instead of the usual bio sheet, they send along a damn magazine. (which you may subscribe to by writing: Swell 3500 W. Olive, Suite 1550, Burbank, California 91505) (SC)

 

...Well?

Swell

Def American

Would you believe that this album cost a mere $900 to record? Or that these guys have toured Europe a couple times and performed on the renowned,"John Peel Sessions," on BBC Radio 1 in England? Yet, they are relatively unknown in this country. Reminiscent of the Velvet Underground, straightforward and raw. (SC)

 

(SC) Stephen Curtis

(BB) Stephen Curtis AKA Ben Bland

(CS) Stephen Curtis AKA Clive Sweeney

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