Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

You will hear reviewers, dj’s, and critics throw out the term “concept album”. Personally, I think that is one of the dumbest phrases ever. All albums are concept albums, aren’t they? I have heard Lucinda Williams’ album called a concept album since all of the songs on the album either took place or have some significance to Highway 20. I prefer to call this a themed album. Again, all albums require a concept and vision by the artist so saying concept album is like saying ATM (automated teller machine) machine or PIN (personal identification number) number.

This album has been out since February of this year but I have been remiss in not reviewing it sooner. I cannot wait any longer. Part of my reasons for reviewing this now is the fact that the “Best Of” lists are coming out and Lucinda Williams’ album is not on a lot of them. This is a true travesty of justice since Ghosts is without a doubt one of the best albums of the year and quite possibly the best of Williams’ career. I know that is a bold statement considering Ms. Williams has released some incredible ground breaking albums before such as the self titled Lucinda Williams and Car Wheels On A Gravel Road. However, this album is poignant, and heartfelt and is one of the most moving records I have ever heard.

I am not a really big activist, but this injustice needs to be discussed and possibly righted. She should be on every list for best albums of the year. She poured some very personal and intimate details of her life into song. She wrote it in such a powerful and moving way that this album cannot be ignored. Williams voice is not the same voice that she had in the early 90s. Her voice is a little raspier and a bit road worn. It is the perfect voice for the songs on Ghosts. The early 90s voice would not have delivered these songs with as much power and urgency as the current day voice.

Place In My Heart (Track 4) was written about her brother and laments about the distance that has grown between them. This song is a very personal song and is her way of telling her brother how much she misses him and loves him, even though they aren’t close any more. If My Love Could Kill (Track 12) is a song about Lucinda’s father, Miller Williams and his progression of Alzheimer’s disease and passing. The courage it would take to write and perform a song of this magnitude is unimaginable to me. I think it is an accomplishment that she is able to get through such a song every night when she performs it. There are very few artists that are willing to dig this deep and expose everything like Lucinda Williams does.

Dust (Track 1) is a very beautiful song about death and dying. It is sung in a melancholy way and delivered with raw emotion that Lucinda Williams is known for. The ambient, almost haunting guitars put the finishing touches on this bittersweet masterpiece. Doors Of Heaven (Track 6) is another brilliant work of art by Williams about death as well. This song is a little more upbeat than Dust and seems to indicate that there is an afterlife and that we should accept the fact that as one life ends, another experience begins. We should embrace this, instead of being fearful or morose. 

In closing, I would like to espouse the glory of The Ghosts Of Highway 20. Something doesn’t have to be sappy sweet in order to be important or beautiful. The Ghosts Of Highway 20 needs to be heard now and for many years in the future. Lucinda Williams is one of the greatest American songwriters and The Ghosts Of Highway 20 is one of her greatest works. 

Listen to Dust off The Ghosts Of Highway 20 

Listen to Doors Of Heaven off The Ghosts of Highway 20

Buy The Ghosts Of Highway 20

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

WOW! Another awesome release. This is the Cannonball’s first full length release since 2007’s Disraeli Beers. They outdid themselves on this one. They got that bluesy, country, rock n roll swagger thing down. Right out of the gate is Junk City, a really raucous rock and roll number that is filthy dirty and beautiful. This tune was meant to be played really effin loud. And played over and over again. 

There are quite a few bands out there named the Wabash Cannonballs, but this outfit hails from Chicago. The line up consists of Gary Camaro – Guitars/Throat, Jonny Two Socks – Lead Drums, Mickey Big Mouth – Bass Guitar, and Patrick Slade – The Good Guitar Player. These guys are well versed in the blues, country, and rock and roll. They also seem like they may be up for a little hijinx and chicanery. Just a hunch I get when I listen to their music. For some reason, I feel like this listen isn’t complete unless some alcohol is involved.

The Sad Travels Of Chesterfield Slim (Track 4) is another lovely number from the Cannonballs. It has a good rock n roll feel to it, but also a really nice vaudeville feel about it. This tune makes me wanna kick my legs up and down, rockette’s style. I don’t know why, just a feeling I get. Definitely has a Stones feel to it as well. Let’s just say it is a great tune and leave it at that.

Holy Magnolia ends the way it started on a really high, energetic note. The last track, Bringing You Down, is a very loud and somewhat irreverent tune. Another song that begs to be played loud. This album is everything rock and roll should be. Again, you heard it here first folks. Hopefully not the last time you hear about The Wabash Cannonballs out of Chicago. 

Listen and buy Holy Magnolia

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

What’s in a name? I think a name is important because it is a first impression and consciously or not, we may have preconceived notions of something based on a name. Having said all that, throw all those prejudices and preconceived notions out the effin window. Greazy Alice is the real thing and they are an amazing band from New Orleans. It wouldn’t be my choice for a band name but I need to be more open minded, obviously. Because if I would have judged Greazy Alice based on name alone, I would have missed out on all of the joy like opening a present on Christmas (or Hannukah) morning. 

This EP definitely gave me that happy feeling like one gets when opening opening up a package, not knowing what’s inside. You tear open that wrapping paper, open up the box, and you discover the best gift ever. That’s how I feel right now. The best gift ever delivered by Greazy Alice. Trying to describe this musical style will be difficult since they cross many genres. The constant among all of the songs is above average song writing, playing, and singing. Quirky, as you would imagine with a name like Greazy Alice, but it is phenomenal.

If I had to try to explain their musical style or make a comparison, I would say a cross between Camper Van Beethoven and Tom Waits. They use humor and off kilter lyrics a lot but in the end, the songs are great and accessible. Some of the lyrical content I don’t understand, I think some are inside jokes or regional humor that I am not privy to. In any case, the lyrics still work and sound intelligent. 

Percocet And Fishing (Track 8) is a perfect example of a quirky song that is absolutely stellar. Who would think of taking percocet and going fishing? Greazy Alice, that’s who! I have drank some beers and gone fishing but never tried percocet and fishing. I will pass on that one I think. But, a unique idea just the same and it makes for a great song with an amazing guitar solo at the conclusion. Talking Bullshit (Track 7) is another somewhat humorous song about shooting the shit with your friends. Just talking nonsense, but it is still a critical part of a good friendship. Sunflower Garden (Track 2) is a more subdued song about building a wall between neighbors so the neighbor’s can’t see what is going on. 

I am absolutely obsessed with this release. My expectations are very high now for Greazy Alice. This release is so good, that I am expecting something really special for their next offering. A high bar, indeed. I have faith in Greazy Alice that they will deliver. You should really pony up for this one. 

Listen and buy Drunk In The Bath

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

Very old timey music which is actually very timely. Heather Littlefield wrote all the songs on Drinking To Dream and they are fantastic. Most of the songs are about love gone wrong, cheating, or getting cheated on. Not the happiest of subjects but Heather sings the songs so beautifully that it won’t make you sad. In fact, I feel quite happy after listening to Drinking To Dream.

She also has quite a band supporting her. Obviously, this isn’t the band’s first rodeo or country record. They are some serious pickers, fiddlers, and pedal steelers. I tried to find some intel on Ms. Littlefield but my attempts were unsuccessful. There isn’t too much written at this point about Heather Littlefield, but I suspect there will be shortly. This record is a serious contender for country album of 2016 even though it was released late. She has the chops to be mentioned in the same breath as Price and Simpson, the current country music royalty.

Loneliness Is Easy (Track 2) starts out like one of the saddest country songs ever with plenty of sad sad pedal steel riffs to accentuate the melancholy mood. This is a song about loneliness being better than being in a very intense relationship. It is sad, but delivered so beautifully that it softens the blow. The expert singing and playing are so good that they are preventing me from crying.

If I Was A Cigarette (Track 6) is a tongue in cheek song about unrequited love and she laments that if she were booze or cigarettes, the man in question would pay more attention to her. A very clever and well presented song and it also sounds great. A trifecta.

You won’t hear these songs on the radio most likely. Which a terrible indictment of country radio these days. But don’t fret because you heard about Heather Littlefield right here. Now it is time to pony up and buy this fine release and support REAL country music.

Listen and buy Drinking To Dream

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

When you think of rockabilly and garage music, I’ll bet you don’t think Limoges, France. Well guess what? That is where the Fullmary’s are from. They have perfected that American garage and rockabilly sound. Love To You is a cross between AC/DC, The Cramps, and The Red Aunts. Lovely female vocals with the perfect amount of attitude and volume. Also great loud and free swingin’ guitars that are a little sloppy and a lot lovely. 

Dance (track 3) is a loud and raucous number that is about dancing on the bar. It is a great song. Again sporting the loud and somewhat sloppy sound that I love. It is all that is right with punk rock. That feeling that anything goes. Just try it out and see if it flies. And Dance flies. If it had wings, it would fly the hell out of here. Another song I am going to put in heavy rotation. Turkey Fever (Track 6) is a punk rock/rockabilly number that is of anthemic proportions. Lofty words, I know. But Love To You lives up to all my accolades and maybe surpasses them. This is the shot in the arm rock and roll needs every once in a while. This is one needle I don’t mind getting. Thank you sir, may I have another?

Listen and buy Love To You

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

Wow, a stunning EP from Whitney Rose with 50s style country charm and grace. This is not your garden variety pop country. This is a perfect follow up to Rose’s 2015 release heartbreaker Of The Year. Definitely no sophomore jinx here as every one of the six songs on this EP is  hit worthy. She isn’t even from the US, she is Canadian. But you wouldn’t think she was from anywhere but Texas when you listen to her music. She said she grew up on a healthy diet of classic country when she was growing up and it shows. Her songs and her personna are legit. 

The first offering on this EP is Three Minute Love Affair and it is a great Tex Mex number. About a whirlwind romance. That doesn’t last vary long but is very passionate when it is process. It is written and sung beautifully by Rose. She has a voice perfectly suited for classic country. She has great range and a very sultry voice that will please the staunchest of critics.

My Boots (Track 3) is another outstanding tune. This is pure honky tonk all the way. Loaded with twang and sass about feeling comfortable when Rose is wearing her boots. It is about being yourself and feeling comfortable regardless of your social stature and economic status. Pretty profound lyrics from Miss Rose. This song would sound great on any honky tonk juke box. You can;t go wrong with any of the songs on this EP so whichever you pick as a fave is a worthy choice. Check this out on release date.

Preorder South Texas Suite

Whitney Rose talks about the making of South Texas Suite

Oh yeah! The Feelies first studio album in six years. Produced by Glenn Mercer and Bill Million and recorded mainly in Glenn Mercer’s home studio in Haledon, New Jersey. A new Feelies release is not just a normal release to me, it is an event. Mercer explained to me in our interview, this is about fun. That’s why they got back together and are still making music, because it’s fun. When they broke up in 1992, it wasn’t fun anymore. So now, there are no motives other than to get together and play. All the band members have other jobs and interests so when they get together, it is purely for the joy of playing and performing. And it shows.

The album cover for In Between looks a lot like The Good Earth cover from 1986. Musically, it is a departure from their 1986 release. It is still The Feelies and no one will get that confused. But the modern day Feelies are a little more subdued than the 1986 rendition. That’s ok with me. The music is still beautiful and current and as jangly as ever. Some bands couldn’t pull this off, but it works for the Feelies. The songs are different enough not to sound like other releases, but still has that overall Feelies sound. A lot of the frenetic playing and feedback is gone replaced with lovely acoustic and clean electric guitar riffs. Also, great lyrics and vocals that have always been the hallmark of The Feelies sound.

Stay the Course (Track 3) is a lovely number I will call Slipping (Into Something) light. It has many of the same elements without the feedback blast at the end. Similar, but different enough to make it it’s own entity. But don’t get discouraged. If you like that Feelies feedback attack, there is plenty on Track 11, In Between (reprise). This is a 9 minute plus rave up with about six minutes of pristine distorted and feedback laden guitar work. It is absolutely stunning and sublime and presented in a way only The Feelies (or Velvet Underground) could deliver.

Make It Clear (Track 10) is a beautiful pop number, Feelies style, chock full of acoustic guitar riffs, rich percussion, and tambourine. This is the embodiment of what pop music should be. Full of gorgeous vocals and a little bit of off kilter instrumentation to keep it interesting. On February 27, 2017, you should get your very own copy of In Between. 

Listen to Been Replaced from In Between

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

What do you get if you cross The Rolling Stones with The New York Dolls and The Stooges? You get Universal Vagrant by Greg “Stackhouse” Prevost. Yes, you get 1000% attitude and pure pedal to the medal rock and roll. Nothing particularly groundbreaking, but it comes at a time when finding people who play real rock and roll is almost nonexistent. And it sounds great. It is definitely meant to be played loud, really loud. Preferably with some accompaniments, if you know what I mean. Greg Prevost is a 40 year veteran of the music business and a founding member of the Rochester rock band, The Chesterfield Kings. This music isn’t a very far departure from the music of Prevost’s former band. In the immortal words of Bert Lance, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. I agree with those sentiments wholeheartedly. This is just good old fashioned down and dirty rock and roll, no more no less.

Highlights for me are Lord Shine A Light On Me (Track 7), a Prevost original that could have come directly off of Beggar’s Banquet or Exile. He certainly has his Stones’ chops down to a science. It makes for some good listening. Gin-Soaked Time Warp (Track 2) is another great tune that seems to be a mix of New York Dolls and Stones. Just a great song that is easy to listen to and demands being played loud. Hayseed Riot (Track 9) is Dolls all the way. With all the sass and attitude that this song demands. It’s loud and dirty and is the embodiment of rock and roll. All of the songs are great and this album is destined to be a classic. Just aggressive music played loud, the way it ought to be.

Listen to Universal Vagrant

 Buy Universal Vagrant 

 

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

I got an email today from Jason Springs giving me some praise for the website and asking me the process for submitting music. The process is simple, send me music and if I like it, I review it. It’s that simple. There is no committee or editing body that screens the music. I am the main writer, editor, and general webmaster. Anyway, I got to listen to Blue Collar Bones & Busted Knuckles and the first track, Danville In The Dust, blew me away.

WOW! The song starts off with a phenomenal blues guitar riff which morphs into a mini drum solo and then into the gritty vocals by Springs. He belts out the first line “I got a five spot says she ain’t goin’ home alone tonight.” And then more bluesy and loud guitar. Yes, I say! This is music. Springs does not let up as his vocals get grittier and a bit louder as the song goes on. He slows it down and lowers the volume a little during the chorus but that is only temporary as the song ends in a flurry of drums and guitar cacophony. Danville In The Dust is four minutes of some of the best rock and roll I have heard in a long time.

Starting off with a song like that is a blessing and a curse. A hard number to follow up. Well Springs delivers the goods with If I’m Lucky (Track 2). While not as rocking as Danville In The Dust, is still a great song. With plenty of Americana appeal. An autobiographical tune about Springs’ grandfather and having the same familial traits. What It Means To Be A Man (Track 9) is a thought provoking ballad about coming of age and becoming a man, both literally and figuratively. Springs sings this song with authority and really believes in the lyrics by the way he belts them out. A live performance must be really special if this much energy can transcend from a recording. I urge you to check this release out.

Listen to some songs from Blue Collar Bones & Busted Knuckles

Buy Blue Collar Bones & Busted Knuckles

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

Another winner! These guys from Rochester, Minnesota are awesome. They sound like a country version of the Afghan Whigs. They got the picking and the Americana sound down to a science. The Listings are: Evan Spee – Guitar, harmonica, and vocals; Jeremy Johanson – Bass guitar and vocals; & Cole Cameron – Drums and vocals. Due to the bitter cold Minnesota winters, I guess these guys have nothing else to do but practice, practice, practice. Indoors, I hope. Well, it appears all of that practice has paid off and started reaping dividends. The songwriting is top notch and compliments the vocals and playing perfectly. One thing that comes through on Times Like This is the tremendous chemistry between Spee, Johanson, and Cameron. Don’t listen to Allen Iverson, practice is a good thing. It certainly worked for The Listings and made them a well-oiled machine ready for game day, which is live shows. Yes, clearly these guys have the chops to play a breathtaking live set.

That’s On Me, the first track on Times Like This is a great alt-country ditty. Just great songwriting, vocals, and harmonies make this a wonderful song that I want to hear over and over. The songs seems to be about an old girlfriend that still lives in the home town while others have moved on with their lives. A tale told all too often, but The Listings make a great number out of this. Fields (Track 4) seems to really pay homage to the Afghan Whigs in their prime. In singing style and arrangement. And they do it justice. Another great song for sure. Can’t wait for a full length release from The Listings.

Listen and Buy Times Like This.