CD Review: The Flaming Lips "At War with the Mystics"
Release date: April 4, 2006
12 tracks; 55:01
Back in the early 1990s, I saw The Flaming Lips open for Stone Temple Pilots and the Butthole Surfers. The Lips had just released "Vaseline," which was a hit on mainstream radio.
If you asked, I couldn't tell you anything about the show. Maybe one of them had red hair... It didn't stand out. These days, a concert by The Flaming Lips is more of a theatrical event.
Their latest album, "At War with the Mystics," continues along the same pscyhedelic lines as previous efforts.
It kicks off with "The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song," which could have been done by Ween's "Chocolate and Cheese album."
"Free Radicals" could have been done by Prince. "Pompeii Am Gotterdammerung" could be a Pink Floyd song.
This isn't to say that The Flaming Lips are trying to imitate others, it only goes to show a point of reference for their diverse music.
I've heard other songs from previous CDs through Internet radio, and I know at some point, I'll have to buy more Flaming Lips albums.
The band is one that almost defies description. It's a little of everything. Complex and yet simple/almost childish, but composed incredibly.
Their lyrics border on science fiction and the music sometimes conjures up the 70s, but the grooves are infectious and the album is simply fun.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 7:29 PM | Comments (1)
April 28, 2006CD Review: Yeah Yeah Yeahs "Show Your Bones"
Release date: March 28, 2006
11 tracks, 38:58
It's not easy to try and describe Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Maybe you've heard their hit "Maps." Maybe you saw their performance on MTV a few years back. Maybe you've seen them ... well ... just about everywhere.
In the past month, they've been in Rolling Stone, Blender, Spin and just about every magazine, or so it seems.
The tumultuous band is always sparking rumors of a breakup. It wouldn't surprise me if they did - it always happens to the good bands. The bands that break new ground. The bands that can't be defined by a category.
Call them punk. Call them rock Compare singer Karen O to PJ Harvey. Compare her to Courtney Love. There is no comparison.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs are truly one of the more unique bands I've heard in a while. Karen O's howling over simple music. It's energetic. It's rhythmic. It's melodic. It's a shot in the arm of the music business.
I bought their new album on my lunch break one day. On my way home from work, I stopped and bought their debut album, "Fever to Tell."
"Fancy" has an intro that sounds like the Moody Blues. Their first single "Gold Lion" has been hitting radio more and more.
"Phenomena" reminded me of the song "Phenomenon" by LL Cool J, but probably only because the lyrics to the chorus are similar. That's the only similarity, too.
"Honeybear" almost kicks off in a disco style, but then gets more punk.
While I'm usually at the front of the line to complain about repetitive lyrics, Yeah Yeah Yeahs can be repetitive without being monotonous. Karen O's energy carries the listener along.
"Show Your Bones" is the perfect followup to their debut. It's great that the band hasn't lost a step for their sophomore album.
Check them out if you get the chance. Hopefully, they won't break up before they come to the Carolinas on tour.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:50 PM
Idols Live coming to Greensboro
"American Idols Live" will come to Greensboro's Coliseum on July 30.
Performers include Ace Young, Bucky Covington, Chris Daughtry, Elliott Yamin, Katharine McPhee, Kellie Pickler, Lisa Tucker, Mandisa, Paris Bennett and Taylor Hicks.
No word on ticket information, but you can probably check the coliseum's site or Ticketmaster.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 2:35 PM
April 27, 2006Coming soon...
Well, I guessed correctly and the Jessica Simpson wannabe, Kellie Pickler, was voted off of "American Idol" last night.
Coming soon to the site:
- I need to get those Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Flaming Lips CD reviews posted this week.
- Saturday night is the Benefit for Crow at Ziggy's. If you don't have plans, head on over and see a bunch of bands for a small price. Click on the calendar at the right to find out more about the event.
- Next Tuesday is "Super Tuesday" for CD releases - Jewel, Tool and Pearl Jam. I'll try to review all three next week at some point.
There ya have it. Thanks for stopping by. Be sure and tip your waitress. Keep listening to good music.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 12:43 PM
April 26, 2006Idol Thoughts - "Romance"
Well, we're down to six on "American Idol," but judging by last night, no one really wants to win. I mean, poor song choices and weak performances seem to be the standard each week. No one is "blowing the roof off."
Katharine McPhee - Well, her bright yellow dress looked like something straight off of "The Brady Bunch." I was waiting for her to start singing, "When it's time to change, you've got to rearrange." There's no doubt she can sing, but does she show enough personality to be the Idol? I'm not so sure. People know about Kellie's struggles with her father, Chris being married, Taylor's "Soul Patrol"...they know Katherine's mom is a vocal teacher and .... well, that's about it. She's definitely the best singer - straight-up singer - on the show, but her personality is what's holding her back. She needs to have more fun. I'm not sure why the judges didn't like her last night.
Elliott Yamin - OK, the knot in his tie was bigger than his head and the shirt wasn't buttoned. You can't have both - tie and buttoned shirt, or no tie and unbuttoned. He just looked sloppy. I still don't like the runs and vibrato from the "Yodeling Gnome" but I think tonight was the first night he didn't make my ears bleed. I think he showed a little more range. However, he's still overrated, and I have no idea why Paula is crying. Did someone steal her drink? Please...get that woman another valium. Maybe she's crying that she knows he won't win?
Kellie Pickler - What's with the pompadour? Sour notes, no power and just not good. "Kellie, Bottom Two. Bottom Two, Kellie." It's about time you two met.
Paris Bennett - One of the better performances of the night - power, range, tone, pitch...all that. I'd say it was one of her more memorable performances on the show. She's up there with Katherine, but not quite as good. However, she has more personality, so that could mean more in the long run.
Taylor Hicks - He got off to a bad start and sounded more like he was talking. He kicked it up a notch for the chorus, but it was still weak. Not the best song choice for him. I think it was the first time I wasn't thrilled by his performance. He needs to find a good solid blues song, or something by the Allman Brothers if given the chance. "Whipping Post" - he would tear it up!
Chris Daughtry - I wasn't crazy about the return of the vibrato - I always find it to be "shaky" and distracting. I didn't think it was his best song, but definitely not his worst. He showed power and some edge. I still think this is his contest to lose.
Bottom two: Kellie and, I hate to say it, Taylor. Kellie will be sent home.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 9:19 AM
April 25, 2006We can only hope it's a joke...
In the latest attempt to boost his street cred, Michael Jackson is looking to team up with 50 Cent for a music collaboration.
Mother of all creatures great and small, we can only hope this is some kind of delayed April Fool's Day joke.
First of all, I think it's safe to say that no one is interested in hearing new music from Jackson. The only thing we want to hear from him is a description of his jail cell, or a detailed admission of all the wrong things he's done over the years.
As far as 50 Cent, his street cred is on a downhill slide. His music went pop, his movie bombed and no one has heard from him in months (or so it seems.)
Well, I guess in some ways, both careers are at a low point, so what's the harm?
Bring it on guys! I'd love to hear them singing "Black or White" or "Who's Bad?" The comedic value of such a performance would last a lifetime.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:24 AM
April 24, 2006This week's new releases (4/25)
Here's a look at some of this week's new releases:
Godsmack "Four" - This is the only big name album being released this week. It's the calm before the May 2 storm.
There are no bands with animal-related names releasing albums this week. So, we'll make it the fantasy special: Elf Power, Jeff Healy and the Jazz Wizards
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 9:42 AM
April 22, 2006CD Review: Taylor Hawkins and the Coattail Riders "Taylor Hawkins and the Coattail Riders"
Release date: March 21, 2006
11 tracks, 39:27
The self-titled album kicks off with the funky rocker, "Louise." Taylor Hawkins' raspy vocals fit right in, and it's not a stretch for him to become a frontman. It sounds similar to old Porno for Pyros songs (there's a trend there, but I'll get to that).
The band's name is funny in itself - Coattail Riders - as Hawkins is the drummer for the Foo Fighters. Are you seeing the trend?
Dave Grohl, drummer of Nirvana, starts solo project, Foo Fighters. Hawkins, drummer of Foo Fighters, starts solo project, Coattail Riders.
The album, while not as heavy or radio-friendly as the Foo Fighters, is definitely good enough to stand on its own.
It should be noted that the bass player is Chris Chaney - here's the Porno for Pyros/Jane's Addiction connection. Chaney played with Jane's Addiction for their last album, "Strays." He also played with Carlos Santana, and is currently playing with The Panic Channel, the new band featuring ex-Jane's members Stephen Perkins and Dave Navarro. Perkins was the drummer for Porno for Pyros.
The album does lose some steam after the first track, but the rest of the 11 tracks are a solid effort.
There are also some highlights, such as the acoustic "End of the Line" and the funky "Get Up I Want to Get Down."
So, the album isn't Foo Fighters, but it's not the Coattail Rider it claims to be either.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:03 PM
April 21, 2006Benefit for Crow
Regulars of Ziggy's in Winston-Salem may know "Crow" - the resident long-haired, tattooed bartender and all-around nice guy.
A few weeks back, Crow's appendix burst to where he could have died.
He was rushed to the hospital, had it removed and all is well, except for that scar he's showing off at a moment's notice.
Being that Crow's main job is at Ziggy's, and with his music promotion company, Blackbird, he has no insurance.
What better way to help out a fellow music scenester than with a benefit?
On April 29 at Ziggy's, they'll hold a "Benefit Concert for Crow" to help him pay his $3,000 medical bill.
Why should you go?
Aside from helping out a guy who's probably made you a drink or opened your beer, you can also see a bunch of bands - Timid, The Five L's, Shadows Within, Lunacy Driven, Outliar, Junn, Horde and Burn the Sky.
And it's only $7!
He's done a lot for bands in the area, and done a lot for the music scene in general as an employee of Ziggy's. So why not help him out?
It's a Saturday night... make your plans now.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:16 AM
April 19, 2006Idol shocker....almost
It was almost a shocker tonight as Chris Daughtry was in the "bottom two" of "American Idol."
Ace Young was voted off - and can now start that "pouty looks to the camera" tour with Constantine from last season.
Two seasons ago, Fantasia was in the bottom two for one week. This year, it was Chris.
Almost makes me wonder if he was actually in the bottom two, or if they like to give the top people a scare so they don't cruise through. (Probably not, but it's a fun theory.)
Next week, the Idols will sing some of the "greatest love songs."
To Daughtry, I say, "good luck." They're really putting him in categories outside of his comfort zone. We'll see how he handles it.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:46 PM | Comments (1)
Idol thoughts "American Songbook"
Here are my thoughts on last night's episode of "American Idol":
Chris Daughtry - Chris showcased another side with a gutsy choice of "What a Wonderful World." He proved he can sing and it was only a matter of time before his rocker mold was broken. I'm sure he'll go back to his old self next week after showing a "softer" side. He's still the favorite to win, I'd say.
Paris Bennett - She went for an older look and sound again and I think it worked for her. She proved she has talent though it wasn't the best song choice. It was the best she's done in weeks.
Taylor Hicks - It wasn't bad vocally, but it didn't show enough of his fun side. I want to see the rockin' and rollin' Taylor that blew through the audition doors blasting his harp. He broke out at the end of the song, but it wasn't enough for me. I just wasn't into it, though the end saved it.
Elliott Yamin - The "Yodeling Gnome" was wearing jeans with a tuxedo jacket, and kicked off the song with a goofy look into the camera. I literally laughed out loud. He almost went without vibrato, and I had a moment where I thought he was good, but then the runs and vibrato kicked back in and I dropped that thought quickly. I don't hear power in his vocals and am still amazed that the judges love him.
Kellie Pickler - An odd song choice, but her vocal sounded good. The problem was that she was singing too fast for the music. She also admitted to everyone that she screwed up. Bad idea! If people didn't notice something going wrong, you don't point it out to them.
Ace Young - Hitting the stage with his hair pulled back and a suit on, he looked like an encyclopedia salesman. He sounded just the same as he does every other week. Another boring song choice, and I never think falsetto is the "sign of a great singer."
Katharine McPhee - She's got the vocals, but, again, she needs to show more personality. Show an edge, humor or something... She just needs to have more fun up there and not look like she's taking the SATs. She's definitely the best female vocalist this season.
Bottom Three: Ace, Elliott, Kellie
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 6:24 AM
April 18, 2006Love Monkey No. 4
So, I watched the first "new" episode of "Love Monkey" tonight on VH1.
It was actually the fourth episode of the show to air, and another great one.
This episode's guest was Aimee Mann. There was also a band featured - Gladwell. I'm not sure who they were, but they sounded good on the show.
I have no idea why this show was cancelled. Definitely one of the best on TV in a long time, and the best music-related show I can remember.
Four more episodes to go... If you haven't seen it, VH1 is replaying the episode a few more times this week.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:15 PM
"We're not gonna protest..."
OK, maybe I saw the movie PCU over the weekend, and thought I'd borrow their slogan.
Anyway, speaking of protests, Neil Young has recorded a new 10-track anti-war album that includes a song called, "Let's Impeach the President."
Considering that President George W. Bush has an approval rating in the negative numbers these days, I'm sure Young's music would go over well.
He's scheduled to play the songs for Warner Brothers executives today.
You can find out more over at CNN.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:51 AM
April 17, 2006This week's new releases (4/18)
Here's a look at some of this week's new releases:
Erasure "Union Street" - My "What year is this?" of the week.
Drive By Truckers "A Blessing and a Curse" - The next coming of the Allman Brothers? Probably not, but they have a good Southern rock vibe to them.
And, of course, the bands with animal-related names releasing albums this week: Animal Liberation Orchestra, Elefant
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 9:31 AM
April 15, 2006Concert review: Shooter Jennings 4/14/06
Concert Review: Shooter Jennings
April 14, 2006
Ziggy's, Winston-Salem, N.C.
OK, so I'm not a country music fan. Sure, I can listen to it in small doses, but I wouldn't consider myself a fan at all.
If you read my review of Shooter Jennings' new album, you'll know I was impressed by it.
So, when I heard that Shooter would be playing at Ziggy's - I had to go and check him out.
Jennings hit the stage a little before 11 p.m. and proceeded to tear through tracks off his new album, "Electric Rodeo," and his debut, "Put the O Back in Country."
His set kicked off with two new tracks - "Electric Rodeo" and the fitting for the location, "Gone to Carolina."
The venue was packed - from country fans to punks with mohawks - Jennings' following is as diverse as his music.
I still haven't heard his first album, but I need to go get it after last night's show.
"Fourth of July" saw the biggest sing along, but Jennings had the crowd going all night long. It was loud, energetic, dirty and lively.
He played a good number of tracks off his latest album - "Little White Lines," "Hair of the Dog," "Manifesto No. 2" - during his hour-and-a-half-long performance.
He played for an hour, and then came back for a 30-minute encore.
I talked with club owner Jay Stephens briefly after the show and we both agreed that it's only a matter of time before Jennings truly blows up on the music scene.
Stephens said he's had Jennings at Ziggys for the past few times and he only sees him getting bigger.
With an appeal that spans country, southern rock and rock, Jennings is on his way to a brighter future.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:43 AM
April 14, 2006This weekend's options
Looking for some good music this weekend?
I'm going to try my best to get out to Ziggy's tonight to see Shooter Jennings. There's an opening band and the show will start around 9 p.m. Of course, if I make it out there, I'll write about it here tomorrow.
Little Feat will be there tomorrow night - also a good live band to see.
Otherwise, I'd save up my energy for Gov't Mule playing the Millennium Center on Tuesday night.
More in the mood for some local flavor?
Lube is playing the Blind Tiger in Greensboro tonight. A fun band to see live with long-time scenester/singer Evan Olson.
So, there you have it - a couple of options for the days to come.
Rock on!
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 9:20 AM
April 13, 2006What's missing?
Here at the Can, I write about "American Idol," the revival of "Love Monkey," CD reviews, concert reviews and national music news that I come across from time to time....
So, what's missing? What would you like to see more of?
Just let me know, and I'll do my best.
Thanks for stopping by.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:15 AM
April 12, 2006Idol thoughts - Queen theme
Queen songs? Really? Not the best choice of a theme, in my opinion...
So, here are my thoughts on last night's performances (April 11):
Bucky Covington - Bucky put a country twang on "Fat Bottomed Girls" and it was actually better than I expected. It's funny that I understood him more when he was singing than when he was talking. In an effort to show his rocker side, he wore a leather jacket. (There's a leather trend tonight...)
Ace Young - OK, you picked "We Will Rock You" and then you have the audacity to ask the band to change their song? Just for that you should be voted out. You can't ask someone who has been performing for longer than you've been alive to rewrite their song for a goofy television show...even if you do give them a pouty look. The song wasn't a vocal showcase, and he simply didn't have the power to back up a big stadium anthem. He's not a rocker, so he broke out the leather pants.
Kellie Pickler - Another non-rocker, so she broke out the leather boots and jacket. Kellie tackled "Bohemian Rhapsody" and it started off ok, but she's just not a rocker. Her feeble attempts at headbanging looked ridiculous. It also threw me off that the song was chopped up. And how in the world does she not know what "on paper" means? Can we get this girl a common sense tutor?
Chris Daughtry - It wasn't a good idea to choose an obscure song - "Innuendo." His vibrato was out in full force tonight, and I thought it was his worst performance of the competition so far. He's still a better singer than the others. Since Chris is a rocker, he was sporting his usual leather wristbands.
Katharine McPhee - Katherine sange a ballad - "Who Wants to Live Forever" - and it wasn't a big surprise. She sang it well, continues to get better every week, and now she just needs to show off more of her personality or she's gone. She also broke the leather-wearing streak.
Elliott Yamin - His voice didn't go with his song choice - "Somebody to Love." Of course, the yodeling gnome was chock full of vibrato (someone will have to explain what "chock full" means to Kellie, please). He tried to put an R&B spin on it with a few runs that sounded horrible to me. Hold a note and tap your throat, and you too can sound like Elliott. He was the worst by far, but of course, the judges loved it.
Taylor Hicks - Taylor sang "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" and had a blast with it. He missed kicking the mic stand, which was comical, but he had a good vibe and fun vocal. He also "kicked it up a notch" and showed some power to his voice which was a welcome surprise. He was easily the best of the night.
Paris Bennett - Whoops, the leather is back as Paris shows a more mature look for "Show Must Go On." She had attitude and good vocals and was the best she's done in weeks.
On the bubble: Elliott and Ace
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:00 AM
April 11, 2006Tonight's Idol
Curious to know what the singers will perform on Idol tonight?
According to USA Today:
Ace Young - We Will Rock You
Bucky Covington - Fat Bottomed Girls
Chris Daughtry - Innuendo
Elliott Yamin - Somebody to Love
Katharine McPhee - Who Wants to Live Forever
Kellie Pickler - Bohemian Rhapsody
Paris Bennett - The Show Must Go On
Taylor Hicks - Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 5:50 PM
CD Review: Buckcherry "15"
Release date: April 11, 2006
11 tracks, 42:33
Five years ago, Buckcherry released their sophomore album, "Time Bomb." Not long after that, the band, which hit it big with their first single - "Lit UP" - off their self-titled debut, broke up and went their separate ways.
Singer Josh Todd, known for his giant suicide king tattoo on his back and raspy vocals, released a solo album, "You Made Me," in 2004, but a fan like me could only hope the band would reunite.
And so, it has. Today, the band releases their third studio album, "15." The name of the album comes not from the number of songs - 11 - but from the fact it was recorded in 15 days.
The first single from the album, "Crazy Bitch," has climbed up radio charts around the country. I have to say it's one of the best tracks on the new album.
However, the album, as a whole, is the shot in the arm the rock and roll scene needs at this point in time - hard-charging, fired-up, take-no-prisoners rock that leaves nothing in its wake.
It's what Guns N Roses or Nickelback wish their next album would sound like. It's pure, unadulterated, high-energy rock.
The band's current lineup includes original members Todd and co-writer/guitarist Keith Nelson. The duo recruited new band members Stevie D. (guitar), Jimmy Ashhurst (bass) and Xavier Muriel (drums).
Todd's vocals haven't lost a step and the band's intensity is prevalent throughout the album.
"15" comes out of the gate firing with "So Far."
The second track, "Next 2 You," is another solid effort on the album that keeps things rolling. It's almost a bluesy rock riff that reminds me of old-school Aerosmith.
While there are sporadic ballads on the album, it's still better than most of what's on the airwaves today.
Later on, "Brooklyn" shows off a different side of the band - acoustic and slide guitars.
The band hasn't forgotten their song subjects either - sex, drugs and rock-n-roll - it's all here.
The bad news - On their upcoming tour, the closest the band will get to the Triad is Jacksonville, N.C.
The good news - In a recent interview, Todd said that now that the band has three albums out, they'll be on the road for a long time.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 12:00 AM
April 10, 2006This week's new releases (April 11)
Here's a look at some of this week's new releases:
Buckcherry "15" - The band has reunited and is releasing their third album. Stay tuned for a review, coming soon.
Live "Songs from Black" - Capitalizing on the success of Chris Daughtry, the band is releasing a new studio album. OK, I'm kidding about the Daughtry comment...
Edwin McCain "Lost in America" - I'm sure it's acoustic, probably radio-friendly, and possibly features at least one song that will be sung on "American Idol" next season.
Rihanna "A Girl Like Me" - Hey Mr. DJ, the one-hit wonder releases her second album hoping for a second hit.
As always - the bands with animal-related names releasing albums this week are: Eagles of Death Metal, Future Pigeon, Lambchop, Workhorses of the Entertainment Recreational Industry
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 12:04 PM
April 9, 2006Love Monkey returns!
Well, VH1 has saved the day by bringing back "Love Monkey" - kind of.
They'll play the first three episodes that have already aired on Tuesday.
Then, beginning on April 18, they will begin to air the five episodes that were filmed but not aired each Tuesday at 8 p.m.
So, we'll have 8 episodes... It's better than the three, and hopefully new interest will be sparked and they can bring it back to life.
I'll keep my fingers crossed.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 10:21 AM | Comments (1)
April 8, 2006CD Review: Southern Culture on the Skids "Doublewide and Live"
Release date: March 21, 2006
16 tracks; 52:40
Some call it rockabilly with a twang. Some call it swamp surf. Singer Rick Miller calls it "toe-sucking geek rock." Whatever it is, it's good, it's fun and on their latest album, it's live.
"Doublewide and Live" is an attempt at capturing Southern Culture on the Skids at their best, and in their home town of Chapel Hill.
While it does a great job with capturing the live sound and energy, there are some parts of the show you have to experience in person - eating banana pudding, eating fried chicken, etc.
The album has 16 tracks of music that covers tunes from as far back as 1991's "Too Much Pork."
While some of the classics are here - "Whole Lotta Things," "'69 El Camino," "Ditch Diggin'" - there's the new hit - "Mojo Box" - and there are some that are missing - "8 Piece Box," "Camel Walk."
Those last two are staples of the live show that usually include audience participation - either through dancing or through the passing out and eating of fried chicken.
I've seen SCOTS a number of times in concert - from a small college bar in Auburn, Alabama, to Winston-Salem's Ziggy's, to an actual pig farm in Alabama. The band is always worth catching live and the new album definitely offers a glimpse at their live energy and talent.
The band is fun - simply stated. It's nearly impossible to see one of the shows and not start moving at some point. It's just too infectious.
And if you live in North Carolina, there's no reason not to check them out - they're playing somewhere in the state all the time.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 9:41 AM
April 6, 2006Idol shocker
People are still reeling from the "American Idol" shocker that Mandisa was voted off the show last night.
Personally, I was hoping that the over-hyped Yodeling Gnome Elliott Yamin would be gone, but I was wrong.
Most people thought it would be Ace or Bucky who was going to be voted off - myself included - but they weren't even in the bottom three.
Maybe this show isn't as predictable as it seems...
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 9:53 AM
April 5, 2006American Idol - Country night
My thoughts on last night's American Idol performances:
Taylor Hicks - It's not his style, but he did ok with it. The vocals aren't too clear - maybe it's a sound problem? It's a somewhat lifeless performance. I guess it's like having Bucky sing Britney Spears - he's just out of his element.
Mandisa - Country doesn't work for her either. Too many words in a song, usually means more talking than singing. She did a good job though. There's no question she can sing. Is she the "Idol" - that's another question.
Taylor and Mandisa both have personality to help them along. Others are too quiet, or aren't "out there" enough to get their story across, and may fade away soon. Such as Katherine...
Elliott Yamin - The Yodeling Gnome's vibrato is getting worse every week. He tried to make a country song more R&B by adding runs, and it sounded more like yodeling, hence the nickname. In all honesty, I have no idea why the judges say he's so great. I say that every week. But seriously, is this April Fool's Day? Every week I think he should be the one voted off, but I know people like him. I just can't figure out why.
Paris Bennett - Is this a country song? Maybe if I wear a leather vest and look like I just stepped off the set of Young Guns: The Musical, people will think it is? She has the vocal talent and personality to last a while longer.
Ace Young - Dawg, enough of the ballads already. We get it - you can glare at the camera, make a pouty face and sing like you just got kicked in the nether regions. He actually didn't do too badly tonight, but how about something more fun and upbeat?
Kellie Pickler - Of course she did well, it's country night. She sounded better tonight than she has in weeks.
Chris Daughtry - Out of character, but the song fit his voice well. He did a good job with it and showed another side. He's been the front-runner for a long time, and I'm not sure anyone will be able to knock him off the tower.
Katharine McPhee - A good bluesy song - I thought it was the best of the night. She had fun, showed vocal power and range and just tore it up. The question is - as mentioned earlier - does she have enough personality to carry her along?
Bucky Covington - I couldn't understand what he was singing, for the first time in the competition. He didn't do a bad job, but I'd guess he's on his way out.
On the bubble: Bucky and Ace
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 8:52 AM
April 3, 2006This week's new releases (April 4)
Here's a look at some of this week's new releases:
Flaming Lips "At War with the Mystics" - Did you know this band is not actually as strange as they might appear?
The Little Killers "Full Length" - Since they're the "Little Killers" does that mean they're not as bad as The Killers?
Morrissey "Ringleader of the Tormentors" - Last week's mention was actually a DVD. This week is the CD. Sorry for any confusion.
Pink "I'm Not Dead" - Her new video is hilarious. I give her credit for abandoning her debut album's image and doing what she wants.
The Vines "Vision Valley" - Some good punk tracks, some Beatles-sound alike songs... It will probably go unnoticed, like their last album, unfortunately.
As always - the bands with animal-related names releasing albums this week are: Mimi Fox, Nazi Dogs, Hawk Nelson
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 8:04 AM
April 2, 2006CD Review: Shooter Jennings "Electric Rodeo"
Release date: April 4, 2006
11 tracks, 42:54
I'll admit that I'm not much of a country music fan. Sure, there are moments when I could listen to the Dixie Chicks or Johnny Cash, but for the most part, I'm a rock fan.
When Shooter Jennings' latest album, "Electric Rodeo," fell on my desk, I had reservations about giving it a shot.
I hesitated to even bother popping it in the CD player. Aside from his famous heritage - he's the son of Waylon Jennings, I knew little about him.
I know Hank Williams III is more metal than one would expect, so I thought I'd give Jennings' album a shot.
The first few notes of the title track had me hooked. A nice rocker, "Electric Rodeo" eliminated any predisposed notion that this was a country album.
"Gone to Carolina" - of course, I live in North Carolina - is almost a modern-day "Sweet Home Alabama." It's a Southern rocker with a lot of groove to it.
Sure, the album has its country tracks - and a little too much slide guitar for my taste ("The Song is Still Slipping Away") - but it was enough to get me interested in catching him at Ziggy's this month (April 14).
There are moments when Jennings finds the spirit of his father - "Some Rowdy Women" - but for the most part, he tries to break out of the shadow.
I haven't heard his debut, "Put the 'O' Back in Country," but I may have to check it out after hearing his latest effort.
The album may not have me going out and listening to more country music, but it will definitely have me listening to more of Shooter Jennings.
Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at 8:06 AM
