Tuesday, July 31, 2012

July 31 Releases

This week is much shorter than last week. I’m cleansing my palate with Say Hi’s Sister Needs A Settle off the 2011 album Um, Uh Oh.

Flats – Better Living

4 of 5 stars

Raw hardcore like I haven’t listened to in years. It isn’t pretty or refined in any way, and it isn’t supposed to be. It is expressive and the songs have plenty of movement and dynamic.

Nachtmystium – Silencing Machine

1 of 5 stars

Timid and lifeless. It seems that nearly every opportunity to introduce dynamics and movement is wasted. Some of the most uninspired work I’ve heard. Metal – as will all music – should evoke something; the only things this ever evokes are boredom and occasional annoyance at the abrupt and ineffective attempts at dynamics.

The Company Band – Pros & Cons

5 of 5 stars

High energy, dynamic hard rock with groove and plenty of hook. It keeps my interest and makes me want to sing along in my best epic rock voice with my hand held high. Wonderfully arranged, confident songs that demand attention.

Toadies – Play.Rock.Music.

3 of 5 stars

A really enjoyable album. Simple and effective rock and roll. Songs move well and leave a nice aftertaste. …At least until track eight. Gimmicky production of a less impressive song doesn’t add anything to the album. It is quite amazing how one track can bring the whole album down; the first seven tracks here are a four bordering on a five, but the whole album gets a three because it falls apart at track eight and it never quite recovers.

Pat Travers – Blues On Fire

4 of 5 stars

Hard blues that hits you in the gut. A great album to lift the spirits.

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