Calvinball / Rumspringer / Mayflower / Dauntless Elite - 4 Way Split 7"- Blue Vinyl (/500)

Calvinball / Rumspringer / Mayflower / Dauntless Elite - 4 Way Split 7" - Blue Vinyl (/500), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Not Shy Of The DIY (2011)

First off, this write up is the start of a test of cross posting some of these pictures to Instagram (username: TimPopKid). I can't quite figure out all of the little easy cross-posting details, so if this begins to be a pain in the neck, Instagram is getting the ax. Plus the write up will only be on the website, I do not have the patience to type all of this this out on my phone. Lastly, I took the photo of this record a few times and I think it looks kind of bad & fuzzy. Right now I'm blaming it on having to take the picture from far enough away to accommodate Instagram's need to have a perfectly square photo. Again, first time going through, I find it all annoying. I will give it at least a week before I make a final judgment.

OK, so this record crept up on me, and I had no idea it had been out for nearly 2 years. I stumbled across it in a distro when I was picking up something else and there's no way I'm passing up anything with a Rumspringer song on it. Said song is great as usual and I cannot wait for their new album coming out this year.

The other 3 bands also put forth some strong songs in the melodic, gruff vocal, Dillinger Four-ish punk vein. I was previously familiar with Calvinball & Dauntless Elite, having other 7"s by both bands. Mayflower was new to me and really impressed with the super catchy sing along chorus of their song. I'm going to have make a note to check out more of their records.

Calvinball / Rumspringer / Mayflower / Dauntless Elite - 4 Way Split 7":
notshyofthediy.bandcamp.com/album/boozehounds-7

Forgetters - S/T LP

Forgetters - S/T LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Too Small To Fail (2012)

I've been sitting on this record for a few months now, trying to figure out what to say about it. On one hand it is approximately 10,000 times better than anything ever released by Jets To Brazil, but at it's best, this record isn't 1/4 as good as Jawbreaker. I know it's not fair to hold poor old Blake to such a high standard these days. Jawbreaker broke up so long ago that I can't imagine how he could possibly be in the same mindset to write songs like those again. But I just can't let go of those records.

Everything Blake does these days just seems moody and ultra serious. Nothing he is doing strikes me as being much fun. The songs on this record are pretty down, for the most part, which isn't inherently a bad thing, but it kind of leaves a cloud hanging over the record. Musically, it's much more straightforward that Jets were; a huge positive, but it never really gets catchy enough to keep my attention.

Even during the albums best moments, when the music is up, the band sounds tight and rock seems likely to commence, Blakes sing-songy vocals tend to steer the song dangerously close to sounding like "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch." It probably sounds like I don't like this record, which isn't true, it is a good unoffensive change of pace record to throw on every so often. The problem is I've been waiting 18 years to be wowed by a Blake band again. Unfortunately, I'm still waiting.

Forgetters - I'm Not Immune:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdiD1w9CcIk

Forgetters - Ribbonhead:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuNdhTBwbA0

The Steve Adamyk Band - Third LP - Black Vinyl & Blue Vinyl (/200)

The Steve Adamyk Band - Third LP - Black Vinyl & Blue Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Dirtnap (2013)

I'm actually very lucky and have had MP3s of this album since my birthday, so I've been blasting this since early December. While MP3s are certainly no substitute for being able to sit down in front of your turntable and really enjoy a record, it has given me some real quality time with this record prior to writing about it. I can only summarize with the following: I love this record.

I have been a huge fan of The Steve Adamyk Band every since I picked up their first 7", Speed It Up, from Ptrash records. Every record since then has been obsessively hunted down and listened to. Third is another in a very strong line. If you have heard this band before, chances are you are going to like the new record. This is a band that really believes in the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mentality. Certainly not to say it's a carbon copy of the prior records, but they all have the same jumping off point and if you were a fan before, I can't imagine not liking Third as well.

For the uninitiated, The Steve Adamyk band plays blazing chainsaw pop. Fast, energetic, catchy, wonderful pop music. The songs have big choruses and tons of backing vocal harmonies. My favorites tend to be the songs that are a tad bit slower than some of the others like "Eyes Of Ottawa," "Won't Let You Go" and the #1 hit of the bunch "Wait For Your Number." But then you've also got the super fast highlights like "Set It Up" and "Satellites" that just make me want to jump around and sing along at the top of my lungs like a madman. Even though at first Satellite seemed out of place when I first heard the record (since it had been previously released on a 7"), the more I listen to the entire album, the more it makes sense within the context of the whole album.

I really can't say enough good things about this record. Easily - EASILY - one of the very best albums of the year. Honestly, if it weren't for the Night Marchers record, I can't even fathom another record giving Third a run for its money for the #1 spot. However, my one complaint is we are now 3 albums into the career of this band and they STILL have not played in New Jersey or New York. This is a problem that simply must be addressed, can't wait anymore. #setitup

The Steve Adamyk Band - Third LP
dirtnaprecords.bandcamp.com/album/steve-adamyk-band-third

Lenguas Largas / Mind Spiders - Sister Series Double 7" - Red Vinyl

Lenguas Largas / Mind Spiders - Sister Series Double 7" - Red Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Razorcake (2013)

This isn't technically a double 7", it's actually available to buy as 2 separate 7"s if you want. But the 2 records go together, first in that each band covers a song by the other and 2nd because you can actually stick the 2 covers next to each other and end up with combined artwork. I know Razorcake has done this before, but I still think it's neat every time I see it.

Truthfully I bought this pretty much exclusively for the Mind Spiders. Lenguas Largas was a bonus and I was hopeful to be turned on to a new band. Unfortunately, the songs on this 7" just don't do anything for me. It's almost atmospheric punk. Lots of faint synthy ambient noise in the background. Breathy vocals buried in the mix, nothing that stands out. Even their Mind Spiders cover just falls flat for me.

For the Mind Spiders record, I was pretty nervous at first because the opening cut is their take on a Lenguas Largas song. It's very much in the vein of Jay Reatard and while it's totally fine, it's really nothing special. However, the other 2 songs on the 7" are stellar. Straightforward, Marked Men-ish punk pop. These 2 songs make the whole set worth it.

Lenguas Largas - Sister Series IV 7":
razorcake-records.bandcamp.com/album/sister-series-iv-7

Mind Spiders - Sister Series IV 7":
razorcake-records.bandcamp.com/album/sister-series-iv-7-2

Rocket From The Crypt - Rocket Pack 7" - Band Version - Pink Vinyl(#5/30)

Rocket From The Crypt - Rocket Pack 7" - Band Version - Pink Vinyl (#5/30), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Pusmort (1991)

Last night, at Bar Pink in San Diego, CA, Rocket From The Crypt played their first show since the 2005 Halloween RIP show. It was a secret warm up show in preparation for their Europe tour that starts on Tuesday in Germany. I didn't know about the Bar Pink show last night. I would have absolutely flown to San Diego for it if I did. I'm pretty bummed about missing it, but I'm hopeful that I will get to see them play again soon.

I decided to break my usual rule of only posting new records I buy, so I pulled this out of the archive. This is the pride and joy of my record collection. The #1 record, the crown jewel so to speak. This is my Rocket Pack 7". The even rarer band version that they only made 30 copies of. Even the normal version is pretty impossible to find as they only made 75 of those. I bought this record in 1996 for $325. At the time my friends said I was insane for spending that much on a record. The last time I saw one sell on eBay, it went for nearly $1000, so I'm pretty glad I grabbed this when I did.

Rocket From The Crypt is such an important band to me, they've been my favorite band since the mid 90's. I've seen them play live 25 times over the years, and we're actually creeping up on it being 20 years since the first show of theirs that I went to. I'm very excited they are playing again, and I'm very happy for my friends in San Diego that got to see the resurrection, but having been at their last show, I'm always going to be a little sad I wasn't able to be at their first show back. I hope they keep playing. I hope I get to see them play again. Long live the dead.

Impo & The Tents - Going To The Moon 7" - Pink Vinyl (/100)

Impo & The Tents - Going To The Moon 7" - Pink Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Ptrash (2012)

Despite the silly band name, Impo & The Tents sure have caught my attention in a good way with this 3 song 7". I picked it up for being part of the Ptrash club (which gives me access to rare versions of all of the records they put out, in this instance it scored me the pink vinyl version), but didn't really have any prior knowledge of the band. Now I'm digging around the internet, trying tto see if I can grab any of their other records domestically.

The band plays a poppy strain of garage rock, with fast herky jerky guitar riffs and high pitched vocals. The songs are so easy to listen to that they just whiz by. All three had me nodding my head and tapping my toe without me realizing I was even doing it. I love the garage bands that understand the value of a hook. So many bands are masking their songs in pretentious psych and noise, but Impo & The Tents are unabashedly pop. That's A-OK in my book.

Impo & The Tents - Going To The Moon 7":
impotents.bandcamp.com/releases.

Walt Mink - Miss Happiness LP

Walt Mink - Miss Happiness LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Quigley (1992)

After I got the recent Survival Knife 7", it prompted me to go back and listen to Unwound again. That got me thinking about my friend Pat from high school. Though I only speak to him once every couple of years these days, Pat has the distinction of being the only person from high school that I still speak to. Pat was my friend that listened to the punk & indie bands that most of my other friends didn't like (I say most of them, I'm just generalizing). Pat was the one that liked Unwound. Pat was the guy that got me into The Karl Hendricks Trio and another band I remember Pat liking was Walt Mink.

At the time, Walt Mink must not have done anything for me. Though I remember the name, I have no memory of what I thought of the band's music. I'm sure Pat must have played them for me, but I didn't care for it and then just moved on with my life. Since I've been re-listening to so many bands from the 90's that I missed out on the first go around, I figured it's time to give them a second shot.

This band is so quintessentially 90's. I almost don't know how else to describe it. The fuzzy treble heavy guitar riffs, tons of leads and solos, high pitched vocals that are borderline laid back and soothing at times. It's a pretty fun and dynamic record and I just can't imagine it being made at any other time. I haven't checked out any of their other records yet (No one wants to OD on Walt Mink), but I like this record more than enough to give the rest of their discography a try.

Walt Mink - Miss Happiness (YouTube playlist of the whole album):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhYpxqtWSSs&list=PLBc1-5rIaB5...

The Men - New Moon LP - Screened Cover (/350)

The Men - New Moon LP - Screened Cover (/350), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sacred Bones (2013)

Last year the song "Open Your Heart" by The Men was one of the 2 or 3 best songs I heard all year. It was enough to make me pick up their 2012 full length. It was so good they I just had to hunt down the limited version of that album as well. The entire record was good, but I definitely gravitated towards their poppier fare. When I heard they were already putting out another full length, I was surprised about the quick turnaround, but anxious to hear more from the band.

New Moon is another move into a newer direction for the band. Definitely more pop in places and some really, really outstanding songs. It also marks the band pursuing some rootsy, country leaning songs that, for me, aren't as successful. I can't think of a single band that started drifting into country that stayed as good as the were when they were bringing the rock. That being said, The Men do it better than most.

At the end of the day, it's only a few songs and the vast majority of the album is even stronger than last years. There's no blow away hit for me like "Open Your Heart," but top to bottom it's a better record.

The limited to 350 copies version was only sold through the Sacred Bones website. It's the regular version of the album with an additional wrap around screened cover. I'm fairly confident that it's actually made of wallpaper or shelf lining paper. Something like that anyway, but it looks cool and I have seen other folks with different variants for this record. The one I have is certainly the most colorful and the one I like best, so that worked out for me.

The Men - Electric:
soundcloud.com/sacredbones/the-men-electric
The Men - I Saw Her Face:
soundcloud.com/sacredbones/the-men-i-saw-her-face

Heavy Vegetable / Powerdresser - Split 7" - Clear Vinyl

Heavy Vegetable / Powerdresser - Split 7" - Clear Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Goldenrod (1993)

Another 20 year old record. It's really nutty how fast time flies by. I'll have to say, at the time of release I really would have never been too into these bands. They're both pretty low tempo and quiet; no distortion or shouting. Probably wouldn't have been enough to get me excited back then. As the years have gone by I've grown an appreciation for some of the more mellow fare out there, so I decided to grab this 7" when i came across it in a used bin.

Heavy Vegetable is a pre-Pinback Rob Crow band and you can certainly see the similarities. Intricate guitars and what not, but I do think the song on this record lacks some of the hooks he was able to write in later years. Powerdresser is actually kind of similar, quite mellow, 90% instrumental, but a decent enough little song. Can't say I'll likely play this 7" much, but I'd probably stick the Heavy Vegetable song on a mixtape if I was still making those (which I'm not because cars don't have tape decks anymore...)

Your Pest Band - Smash Hits [2008 - 2011] LP

Your Pest Band - Smash Hits [2008 - 2011] LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Snuffy Smiles / Dead Broke (2013)

Singles compilation from one of my favorite current Japanese punk rockers; Your Pest Band. This LP compiles all of their 7"s, Split 7"s, compilation and cassette appearances. Being a big Snuffy Smiles nerd, I did have the bulk of the original records that make up this collection, but even I didn't have the songs on here from a split cassette the band did.

This band just exudes energy, nothing they do is done half way. They barrel through their songs, somehow playing everything with amazing precision, yet sounding like they could come off the rails at any second. It's a rare skill.

My picture is the Snuffy Smiles version sold in Japan (Thanks to my buddy Yuki for picking it up for me), but this was also released in America by Dead Broke Rekerds. The Dead Broke version has a different fancier cover that I do need to pick up, but I have a complete Snuffy Smiles vinyl collection that I need to keep complete. Considering how difficult it has been for me to keep track of Snuffy Smiles records over the year, it's great that if you're after the music, you can pick it up domestically from a label that's really been putting out some fantastic records.

Your Pest Band - Smash Hits [2008 - 2011] LP:
deadbrokerekerds.bandcamp.com/album/smash-hits-2008-2011

The Thermals - No Culture Icons 7"

The Thermals - No Culture Icons 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sub Pop (2013)

Here's a little Saturday bonus. I know I don't usually post anything on Saturday, but this is just a brief extra. When you ordered any of the new Thermals reissues direct from Sub Pop, they also sent out a reissue of the 1st Thermals 7". 2 Tracks from More Parts Per Million and 2 unreleased. One of the unreleased is the song I think they should end every show with: Everything Thermals. It's the best song ever written that has a band's name in the song.

From what I read I think originally Sub Pop was going to send out 1 of these 7"s for each reissue bought. It's good they only sent me one, know clue what I would have done with 3 of these.

The Thermals - Everything Thermals (Live):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=34xc5pXqtFM

The Thermals - The Body The Blood The Machine LP - Orange Vinyl

The Thermals - The Body The Blood The Machine LP - Orange Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sub Pop (2013)

The 3rd of the Thermals Sub Pop LPs up for reissue is The Body The Blood The Machine. This is the record that really seemed to garner them the attention that they deserved from the very beginning. This was the turning point where I started to notice a lot more people at their shows. Oddly, it's my least favorite record of theirs.

It's not to say it's bad, it's not at all. In fact some of the songs are downright amazing. My big beef with it is that this album seems to lack the punch of the first two. They were in flux as far as having a drummer went during this time and I think it cost them some of the energy and drive of the 1st two releases. Again, still a top notch record and it's actually improved with age for me.

The reissue, like the others, sounds great and I think they did a really nice job matching the vinyl color to the artwork for all 3 albums. It's good that these are back in print and anyone without them already in their collection really needs to rectify that problem. Even if you already had all 3 like I did, this is a band I deem 100% worthy of variant hunting.

The Thermals - Pillar Of Salt:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwgNMrs-i80&list=PLE1FC101EE0...

The Thermals - Power Doesn't Run On Nothing:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tn0tynVsrTM&list=PLE1FC101EE0...

The Thermals - Fuckin A LP - Blue Vinyl

The Thermals - Fuckin A LP - Blue Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sub Pop (2013)

This is the new reissue of the 2nd Thermals album on Sub Pop. Like the More Parts Per Million reissue it sounds and looks great, though I see no real difference in sound from my original pressing. But the vinyl looks really sharp and it's great that the record is finally back in print again for those that don't have the original.

I loved Fuckin A just as much as More Parts Per Million. I very clearly remember the very first time I heard it. Sitting in my apartment at the time that was in Jersey City, starting up the music and listen so intently. I was more than a little concerned that they'd let me down with their 2nd record, so many bands do, but Fuckin A hit it out of the park again.

The fidelity is a bit higher, but the songs are still loud, fast and angry. The hooks are incredible, but so unorthodox. There aren't a ton of bands that can pull off what The Thermals managed on their 1st two albums. Just like I said yesterday, this record also sounds just as incredible today as it did when I first heard it. Absolutely essential.

The Thermals - Our Trip:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2RKO6auWko

The Thermals - A Stare Like Yours:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2qgmRkjXPc

The Thermals - Forward:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=rl2wBIHqdKg

The Thermals - More Parts Per Million LP - Red Vinyl

The Thermals - More Parts Per Million LP - Red Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sub Pop (2013)

When More Parts Per Million came out in 2003, I was doing radio promotion as my day job. We received a package of upcoming releases from Sub Pop and my co workers and I were going through them. Everything sounded OK to me, but nothing was really standing out. Until The Thermals came on. I was immediately drawn to the energy & intensity of their songs. What a lo fi pounding masterpiece of a record. I was completely floored.

The first time I saw The Thermals play was at the Mercury Lounge in NYC, they played to about 8 people, 4 of which were from my office. Back then they were a 4 piece with Hutch only singing. They were so, so great. I just lost it at these shows. I saw them play at MacRock, I saw them play at SXSW, I saw them play every single chance I could. They got better and better every time and the crowds got bigger and bigger as well.

It all started with More Parts Per Million for me. A record that sounds just as fresh and exciting as it did the first time I heard it. The new reissue on Sub Pop sounds great and looks fantastic. Sure, I've had the 1st pressing of the LP forever, but I'm just a sucker for colored vinyl, especially for a record that I love as much as I love this one. If you don't have this record you're a fool, they don't get much better.

The Thermals - No Culture Icons:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cf5wlXR9q3c

The Thermals - I Know The Pattern:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpIJwhrhHCg

The Thermals - God Damn The Light:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=krqeCs26PkI

Spatula - Radio Helmet 7"

Spatula - Radio Helmet 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

The Now Sound (1994)

Spatula were kind of a middle of the road indie rock band for me. They came from that fertile Chapel Hill scene that spawned so many of my all time favorite bands that I guess it probably didn't do them any favors living in shadows that big. Spatula hang out on the more mellow side of the rock spectrum, though they can get loud and fuzzy when the need arises. The 3 songs on this 7" are all good, but not great. The A-side in particular kind of feels like it just goes on forever. I have another 7" of theirs, a split with a band called Evil Wiener that is much better, but this is still a nice trip back to the 90's.

Spatula - Radio Helmet:
vimeo.com/13763485

Jeffrey Novak - I Never Knew So Much 7" - Purple Vinyl

Jeffrey Novak - I Never Knew So Much 7" - Purple Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Matador (2013)

This 7" is the first installment of the Matador Records 2013 singles club. Limited to 700 subscriptions, this one on purple vinyl. There should be 11 more of these guys coming in and I'm especially keen on the next one due, which is a new Superchunk 7".

Jeffrey Novak is someone I was not particularly familiar with going into this series. The 2 songs on this single tend to veer into the dissonant guitar, kind of spoken word-y fare that reminds of Shellac a bit, but no where near as interesting. For my taste, it's a bit of a dud as far as the first release goes, but there are many bands coming in the future of this series that will be right up my alley. Sorry, couldn't find either song streaming.

Gleam Garden - Brilliant Nightmare CD

Gleam Garden - Brilliant Nightmare CD, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Perfect Music (2012)

I am very passionate about music and buying records. I truly love individual bands like Rocket From The Crypt, Snuff, Leatherface, Him Kerosene, Broccoli, Bum, Pavement and far too many more to attempt to name. There have been geographical regions that have produced so many great sounds; Ottawa is currently going through this. The UK punk from the mid 90's, San Diego has had it's moments. But there's no scene or area in the world that makes me love music more than the melodic punk that comes out of Japan. Based around the Snuffy Smiles label, there has just been amazing band after amazing band coming out of Japan for DECADES. I feel like I'll never truly be able to explain it, but these bands are just so exciting to me. One of these great bands is Gleam Garden.

They started out the way so many punk bands from Japan do, releasing 7"s on Snuffy Smiles records. Then they had a Mini CD LP a few years ago and finally they have a proper full length called Brilliant Nightmare. I'm not familiar with the label it's been released on, Perfect Music, but it seems probable that it's a large indie or maybe a major label subsidiary out in Japan. No matter what the label is, they've released a killer record.

If you like the sort of melodic punk that bands like Lovemen or Blew were pushing out in the 90's, this is a record for you. They're more melodic that some of their current counterparts and can just craft songs like nobody's business. Vocals come out in the sort of raspy Leatherface-ish yelp that I just love, but it never feels like you've being yelled out. The melodies pushed through that gruff delivery just carry the whole album.

The CD is a bit of a pain to get here in America and I want to give thanks to my pal Yuki from SP Records in Japan for helping me find a copy (Along with a bunch of other great records that I'll be taking pictures of soon). I've actually had MP3s of this album for a while, but I never feel like I truly own the record until I have that CD or LP in my hands. Speaking of which, some label out there really needs to step up to the plate and put this record out on vinyl. You'd be doing the world a great service.

Gleam Garden - This:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8tVas3naqA

Masked Intruder - First Offense 7" - Pink Vinyl (/250)

Masked Intruder - First Offense 7" - Pink Vinyl (/250), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Hang Up (2013)

This is the repress of the long out of print and obscenely in demand 1st 7" by the band Masked Intruder. I had the box set version of the first pressing (www.ibuywaytoomanyrecords.com/2012/04/masked-intruder-fir...) but was so innundated with offers to buy it, I eventually sold it this past January for $100. At the time I felt that was a pretty crazy amount to pay for the 4x7" set. that I paid $12 for Little did I know a month later people would start selling individual colors of the 1st press for $150 EACH on eBay. I don't regret the sale and again, made way more money on it than I think is warranted, but part of me really wonders how much the box set could have sold for.

Anyway, the reason I sold the set was because I knew a repress was coming out. I love collecting records and as you all know I'm a pretty big variant nerd, but don't and can't collect every variant for every single band I like. You've got to pick your battles and as much as I like Masked Intruder, they didn't quite make the nerd cut off. As per my last review, this 7" is still fun, but I still don't like the song "Stick Em Up." The pink vinyl version is sold out (and has already sold for truly stupid amounts of money on eBay), but last check the label still had the black vinyl version if you're looking.

Masked Intruder - First Offense:
hanguprecs.bandcamp.com/album/first-offense

Collision - Tiebreaker 7" - Yellow Vinyl

Collision - Tiebreaker 7" - Yellow Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Speedowax (2012)

I've had this 7" sitting around for a little bit. My buddy Rich from Speedowax records sent it to me along with a ton of Broccoli 7" variants that I bought from him. I kind of just let it sit because frankly, I've never had much luck with freebie stuff thrown into an order. Well, I've finally taken a listen and I've got to say, this may be the best freebie ever.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying this is the greatest record in the world, but considering how I came across it and my usual angry old man vibe, I'm just so pleasantly surprised. Collision play fast, really fast. They definitely lean towards bands like Lifetime on the pop punk scale. Though Lifetime was never one of my favorite bands, Collision play with catchy enthusiasm and I'm particularly caught by the vocals and how clean & strong they sound.

It's pretty nice to be surprised by a record like this. I encourage all labels to throw in some extra nonsense to check out when I buy something from them!

Collision - Tiebreaker 7":
wearecollision.bandcamp.com/album/four-songs-with-james-s...

Arms Aloft / Leagues Apart - Split 7" - Yellow Vinyl (/100)

Arms Aloft / Leagues Apart - Split 7" - Yellow Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

All In Vinyl (2012)

2nd 7" from the All In Vinyl 7"s series year 3. As mentioned before, I love subscription 7" series, getting to try out new bands, getting limited 7"s by bands you already like. It's just a good time. The yellow vinyl version of this particular 7" was limited to 100 copies and only available to subscribers. You can get a different color of vinyl just ordering the single 7" direct from the label if you want to get a copy on its own.

The 2 bands on here are both bands I'm not familiar with. They're both playing gruff, melodic pop. Considering the distance that separates the 2 bands it's actually quite remarkable that both sound so similar. They're the sort of bands that obviously find inspiration from the likes of Dillinger Four, The Lawrence Arms and to some extent Hot Water Music. Arms Aloft seem to be taking a more straight ahead approach to their punk while Leagues Apart are exploring bouncier guitar riffs and change-ups.

Both bands are good, but I don't know if I'm inspired enough to track down more records by either band.  I feel like if I saw another 7" by one of them in a distro while I was placing an order I'd take a shot at it, but we'll see when the time comes. Still, if bands playing this kind of punk rock is your cup of tea, I can't imagine you'd be disappointed with this 7".

Arms Aloft / Leagues Apart - Split 7"
soundcloud.com/allinvinyl/sets/arms-aloft-leagues-apart-s...

Green Day - Uno LP (Pink Vinyl), Dos LP (Blue Vinyl) & Tre LP (YellowVinyl)

Green Day - Uno LP (Pink Vinyl), Dos LP (Blue Vinyl) & Tre LP (Yellow Vinyl), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Reprise (2012/2013)

Green Day is still a band that I hold pretty near and dear to my heart. Despite the fact that they constantly have pushed the envelope into territory that I don't want to hear, I'll never completely be able to let go of the band that wrote "2000 Light Years Away." This 3LP set, released over a span of several months was billed as Green Day returning to form. After meandering with American Idiot and releasing the god awful 21st Century Breakdown, I was hopeful that Green Day would release an album with some pop-punk songs on it.

In general, they succeeded. Over the course of these 3 albums are some of the best songs that the band has released in over a decade. Unfortunately they also contain some of the worse. Each record was presented under the guise that they would represent different styles of music. These differences are subtle at best. I can't see any sort of thematic element that differentiates one from the other. I'm not sure the band does either as they moved one of the songs "Drama Queen" from the 2nd album to the 3rd album during production. The CD and Digital buyers saw that change. On vinyl, you get the song twice, once on Dos and once on Tre. Plus the song Stray Heart is omitted completely.

What really strikes me on these records are the lyrics and how terrible they are in places. I can't understand why Billie Joe would need to write so many songs just littered with swearing. It's not clever and the last thing I really want to hear is a 73 year old (or however old Billie Joe is these days) singing about how it's "Fuck Time." Their lyrics were not this juvenile 20 years ago,

Hot Topic (I know, I know) was the only place you could pick up the colored vinyl variants of these records. Uno and Dos were limited to 1500 copies. Tre was limited to 1000. If you can say the words limited in the same sentence as a pressing run that large.

You really could cobble together the best Green Day record in an age by plucking the best off of each album for a greatest hits deal. But the sheer amount of songs over these 3 albums makes it impossible to not have an awful lot of filler (or a lot of awful filler, either works). Green Day works best when they're cranking out simple pop-punk. Their constant desire to do something epic and sprawling is what's keeping them from being that band that I'm still trying to hold dear.

Survival Knife - Traces Of Me 7"

Survival Knife - Traces Of Me, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sub Pop (2013)

In the early 90's I was really into the noisy indie rock scene that was kicking around the northwest. You could have checked my collection and found records by bands like Fitz Of Depresiion, Karp & godheadSilo. What you would have also found is a handful of Unwound records. As I got older, I tended to drift towards the poppier side of things and so many of those bands imploded that it was just time to move on. Some of those records I look back at and wonder what was I thinking.

Recently I've be relistening to Unwound; those are records that have held up pretty well. It's a shame I pruned a lot of them from the collection many moons ago. They're going to have their catalog reissued soon, and I will definitely be picking up their early albums again. That brings us to Survival Knife, featuring ex members of Unwound.

Unwound was a band that I liked less as their records progressed. They got less noisy, less edgy and more atmospheric. Not my cup of tea. Survival Knife takes a welcome step backwards and serves up 2 songs of noisy, crunchy indie rock. This is the type of stuff I miss from Unwound. Though there's a darker dissonant vibe, they really manage to sneak a few hidden hooks in there as well. A strong debut and I'm eager to hear more.

Survival Knife - Traces of Me (Live):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iy60k7MwiNo

Survival Knife: Name That Tune:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs4Ahxj1-aI

Adam Widener - Gimmee Gimmee Scientific Stuff 7" - Red/Blue Split ColorVinyl

Adam Widener - Gimmee Gimmee Scientific Stuff 7" - Red/Blue Split Color Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sexy Baby (2012)

Full disclosure, this is the very first record that someone has ever sent me just to review on this website. I've had quite a few people ask in the past, but no one ever followed through before, so cheers Adam. This is Adam Widener's 2nd 7" from what I can gather.  Prior to this he served time in a band I was quite fond of; Bare Wires. Widener's solo work has him dabbling in the lower-fi, bedroom power pop world, with strong results.

Immediately, I think that this is the type of record bound to appeal to fans of other treble merchants like Nobunny or Shannon & The Clams. The songs are tight, with high pitched distorted vocals. Me personally, I could use a bit more bass to the equation, but the songs are strong enough to hold up without the increased low end.

The packaging would have been one of the coolest things I'd seen in a while if it had just worked out a bit differently. 3D cover with Red/Blue translucent vinyl. The plan was to be able to look through the record and see the 3D cover. Sadly the vinyl is just a bit too opaque, but still a pretty clever idea that was worth taking a shot at.

Adam Widener - Gimmee Gimmee Scientific Stuff 7":
sexybabyrecords.bandcamp.com/album/gimmee-gimmee-scientif...

Stay Clean Jolene - Green 7"

Stay Clean Jolene - Green 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Drunken Sailor / Just Say No To Government Music / Eager Beaver / Rad Girlfriend (2013)

My first thought before listening to this 7" is "really, 4 labels all need to co-release one 7" record?" Then I listen to it and wish I could have gotten the PopKid logo on there too. What a debut. Leatherface-ish/Broccoli-ish UK punk rock. Gruff, but smooth vocals, dynamic guitar work, great hooks. Please someone confirm for me that they're working on a full length.

This is pretty much everything I look for in a punk rock band, and really takes me back to the glory days of the UK scene when it was populated by the likes of Chopper & Hooton 3 Car. If those types of bands strike your fancy or if you are someone that enjoys the punk rock that Snuffy Smiles puts out, this 7" should be the next thing you pick up. From whichever label is closest to you.

Stay Clean Jolene - Green 7":
drunkensailorrecords.bandcamp.com/album/s-t-7

What-A-Night's - S/T LP - Black Vinyl & Red Vinyl (/60)

What-A-Night's - S/T LP - Black Vinyl & Red Vinyl (/60), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Snuffy Smiles / Drunken Sailor / Rad Girlfriend (2013)

Vinyl version of one of my absolute favorite record of 2012. The band originally self released this album themselves in Japan. 3 labels were not content with that, 3 labels stepped up and did the right thing. 3 labels made sure this was archived on the best music format. My hat is off to all of them. It makes me absolutely giddy every time I get to see the Snuffy Smiles label on a record these days. Sure it's not as frequent as it once was, but it's a warm, comforting feeling for someone that had been buying records on that label for nearly 20 years.

Musically, I'll repeat what I said about the CD. If you like any of the usual suspects on Snuffy Smiles; Blew, Blotto, Minority Blues Band, The Urchin, etc...this is a must buy. I've always felt that Japanese bands have a remarkable talent of taking melodic punk rock and really elevating it. What-A-Nights, in particular, really have mastered this art and I just can't say enough good things about the record.

The best thing about this is that if you live in America, you can get it domestic from Rad Girlfriend. Europe? Drunken Sailor is there to help and of course Snuffy Smiles is holding down Japan as usual. There were only 60 copies on red vinyl split amongst the 3 labels, so if that's your sort of thing, you best pick it up quickly.

What-A-Nights - S/T (Full Album Stream):
drunkensailorrecords.bandcamp.com/album/what-a-nights-lp

Record Store Visit: Earwax - Brooklyn, NY - 03/02/13

Record Store Visit - Earwax - Brooklyn, NY - 03/02/13, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

I hardly ever go into Brooklyn. Being from New Jersey, it just tends to be a real pain. The only times I really ever go is to go to a show that I absolutely can't miss. Well, one of those shows popped up this weekend so I ventured out into the wilderness to go see The Night Marchers, Dan Sartain & Mrs. Magician at at a place called Glassland Gallery. On my way there, I passed a record store on Bedford Avenue and thought it was worth stopping in.

Earwax is a pretty typical indie store. 65% LPs, 35% CDs. It's a small store but they make the best of it. The stock is really pretty ordinary. They stock bigger indie stff for the most part, though they did have a bit of punk rock thrown in. Almost no used section to speak of and I think I bought more 7"s last month than they actually sell at this place.

They really fell into the trappings of the stereotypical snobby store. The music they were playing consisted of one tone that played the entire time I was in the store. How does one tell if that's a good tone? I'm not up on my tones, so I guess it could have been an parody tone or maybe something that you can use to balance your stereo speakers.

The clerk was also a cartoon character of a record store employee, sitting around in an ironic Christmas sweater talking down to some young girl in the store telling her that only "Weird German men and Dads still buy CDs."

Anyway, it's not a bad store, and I you are in the area and are looking for current indie rock, it's as good as any. Just don't go their expecting to dig for gems or to engage in any conversation with the staff.

Manifesto Jukebox - Strain LP

Manifesto Jukebox - Strain LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Combat Rock (2006)

Manifesto Jukebox is a band first recommended to me by Sean from Rugger Bugger records quite a long time ago. Their first album Desire really blew me away. And it must have blown away some other folks as well as the band ended up on BYO for their 2nd album Remedy. Not sure how that went for them, but by the time their 3rd album came along, they were back home on Combat Rock.

I'll admit it, I lost track of the band after Remedy, I didn't even know this last record Strain had even come out. When I was going through the Vinyl Junkie going out of business sale, I came across this in their used section for next to nothing so I grabbed it.

Strain is on par with the band's other records. Though I love the music and the energy the band pours into their songs, I'm always wishing the singers voice was just a bit less gruff and a tad more melodic. It's a good record, but I'll always be left wanting a band who has just as much enthusiasm, but shouts at me a little less. Still, definitely worth the pick up.

Manifesto Jukebox - If I Had A Soul (Live):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBHlKtzAoS8

Winepress - The Complete Recordings LP - Record Release Version (/100)

Winepress - The Complete Recordings LP -, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Underground Communique (2013)

Winepress is a band that I first heard of due to another band covering a Winepress song. A wonderful old band from the 90's called Walker covered Winepress' 'Revenge Of The Nerds' on their split 7" with a band called Back of Dave. That led me to Winepress, a band that only put out a handful of 7"s, but managed to churn out quite the little pile of awesome songs.

This is a band that is absolutely a product of their time. Fast, fun midwest pop punk. Good hooks, good lyrics, the whole package. This collection compiles all of their songs onto 1 LP, though this same compilation did come out on CD back in 2001.

The version that I have is a limited to 100 copies record release version sold at a recent reunion performance the band played. The leftovers were sold on the Underground Communique website. Amazingly, I just checked and it looks like they still have some left if you're in the market for a copy. I don't think any other version of this LP exists at this time, though I imagine it is likely it will get a full pressing from the label at some point.

Winepress - The Complete Recordings (Full album stream):
undercomm.bandcamp.com/album/the-complete-recordings

The Muppet Movie Original Soundtrack Recording LP

The Muppet Movie Original Soundtrack Recording LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Atlantic (1979)

One of the most enduring childhood memories that I have is my fascination with the Muppets. I always watched the show when it was on, I loved the movies and I simply adored this soundtrack. I had it as a kid and quite simply wore it out. I remember it so vividly that I can tell you the spots where my original copy skipped. 'Rainbow Connection,' 'Movin Right Along' and my absolute favorite 'Can You Picture That' just jumped out of my speakers and really helped show me how important music was at a very, very young age.

I picked up this new copy in the botched trade I mentioned when writing about the George Harrison album Cloud 9 a few weeks ago. In fact, this was the record whose condition led me to call off the trade and just buy the records outright. While certainly not unlistenable, there are quite a few scuff marks on the vinyl and they really come through when the songs hit their crescendos, resulting in staticy fuzzed out moments.

For the price I paid, not a deal breaker, but I would certainly prefer to pick up a fresher copy at some point. It's a classic record for me and that red & green Atlantic label on the vinyl just makes me smile.

The Muppets - Can You Picture That:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoKFBjd5-F8

The Muppets - Movin' Right Along:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMR5JVo21wQ

The Night Marchers - Allez Allez LP

The Night Marchers - Allez Allez LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Swami (2013)

It's no secret to the world that I am one of the biggest fans that John 'Speedo' Reis could have created. From Rocket From The Crypt to Drive Like Jehu to The Sultans to Hot Snakes, I've been with him every step of the way. His bands never disappoint, his albums always become soundtracks to a specific time frame for me. With The Night Marchers, things haven't changed a bit.

After a 5 year layoff, Night Marchers hit with their 2nd full length Allez Allez. An album that builds off of the foundations of all his previous bands but still manages to be fresh and exciting. From the dueling guitar interplay of 'Tropical Depression' to the straight up pop of 'Pain' to the fascinatingly horn-tinged-Rocket-From-The-Crypt-esque 'Big In Germany,' this man knows how to write a song. 'All Hits" as it were.

I'd have to say this is even better than the band's debut, See You In Magic. It's one of the best things you could possibly pick up right now and a surefire album of the year contender (though honestly, very few others are really going to be able to vie for the top spot).

The one thing that I will say that I find odd is that the track order between the CD and LP is different. On the CD, 'Fisting The Fanbase' closes the album. On the LP, that song is the last on Side A. I'm sure it was rearranged on the LP for timing issues, but I have to say, for me that song is the natural album closer. It just kind of sums up the energy of the entire album and beats you in the face with it for 5 minutes. After which, the only thing left to do is start that record all over again...

Night Marchers - All Hits:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7Wg_jqy-P8

Night Marchers - (Wasting Time In) Javalinaville:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9HyEn4eZuc

Night Marchers - Fisting The Fanbase (Live):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8uDAyQQ0mE

Superdrag - Regretfully Yours LP

Superdrag - Regretfully Yours LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Side One Dummy (2013)

It was a crazy scene back in the 90's. If there was a band and that band made music with guitars, there was a better than average chance that at some point, some label would want to release their records. Provided they were any good or had even a small following. Superdrag ended up on Elektra. They managed to give the label a hit single with the song Sucked Out and the 90's rolled on. I remember this sort of thing well, but you sure don't really see it anymore.

Regretfully Yours is such a strong debut record. The band plays glossy, but punchy guitar pop that really stood out back in 1996. They're not too dissimilar from the kind of pop that Fountains Of Wayne were championing, but Superdrag had a bit more oomph and were a rougher around the edges, which was a-OK by me.

This record never came out on vinyl when originally released. Side One Dummy steps up to the plate all these years later and did a great job. They pressed the record on 180g vinyl and everything sounds quite nice.

I also need to take a moment to commend the Side One Dummy mailorder folks. When I received my copy there was a gigantic scratch that cut through the last 2 songs on the album. I took a picture, emailed the label and the next day they sent me an email apologizing and sent me the tracking number for a new copy that was already on its way to me. The 2nd copy was perfect and I just wanted to say thank you to them again. I'm hopeful to be able to give them more money when they release the next few Superdrag records on vinyl as well.

Superdrag - Sucked Out:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhVr5rRRTM0

Superdrag - What If You Don't Fly:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch533Zn55Cg

The Yolks - Introducing The Yolks 7"

The Yolks - Introducing The Yolks 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Randy (2007)

First 7" by The Yolks who put out one of my Favorite LPs of 2009. I hope they put together another album someday as I really dig these guys. The first 7" is similar to the LP as it is full on ramshackle pop songs with a retro vibe and fidelity challenged production. Much like the LP it just sounds like it's bursting with energy, a quality more bands probably wish they could capture on their recordings.

I'm not entirely positive what version of this 7" that I have, but I suspect it's a fairly recent repress. It's numbered #14/100 and the label on the record itself is hand drawn with shiny silver ink. Regardless of the version, I'm pleased to finally add this 7" to the stacks. And again, Yolks folks, put out another record, OK?

The Yolks - Introducing The Yolks:
theyolks.bandcamp.com/album/introducing-the-yolks

Something Fierce / Occult Detective Club - Split 10" - Red Vinyl (/200)

Something Fierce / Occult Detective Club - Split 10" - Red Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Dirtnap (2012)

My wife said something about me recently that really stuck out. I know exactly how she meant it and I know it wasn't meant as a slight. She said "Tim doesn't like change." And she's right, for the stuff I like, I don't want things to change. I don't like that someone else is running the show Community. I don't like that cereal boxes only have enough cereal for about 3 bowls now. I don't like how someone having an MP3 of a record has replaced actually buying them. I don't like that you can't buy a big square car anymore. I'm old and set in my ways for a lot of things.

That brings me to Something Fierce. I recognize that the songs on this 10" are very good. I mean that, these are killer songs. Catchy as all hell. Melodies for days. If this record came out and everything was exactly the same and just had a different band name on it, I'd love it. My problem is Something Fierce changed. Many would argue they got better. I would never say they got worse. I just missed the loud crunchy noisy assault of their record There Are No Answers. That's the Something Fierce I want, and I know I can't have them back. I'm just being selfish.

Occult Detective Club, however, does satisfy my need for loud. They play brash punk rock full of hooks, piss & vinegar. I have an older record of theirs that was really good, but the songs on this 10" blow away everything on that album. I can't wait to hear more from these guys. I know they have a new 7" out on Dirtcult that I need to pick up next time I order from them.

Something Fierce / Occult Detective Club - Split:
somethingfierce.bandcamp.com/album/split-10

Big Eyes / Mean Jeans - Split 7" - Red Vinyl (/200)

Big Eyes / Mean Jeans - Split 7" - Red Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Dirtnap (2013)

Split 7" by a band I'm familiar with and one, not so much. Mean Jeans have been slowly winning me over these past few years with their Ramonesy, at time nonsensical, pop punk. They turn in one of the best songs I've heard from them on this 7", I Miss Outer Space. A sugared up blast of sing along choruses and lyrics about having an alien heart and missing a black hole . The 2nd song, Since You Left, is a Big Eyes cover and it's another burner, though I'm admittedly not familiar with the original, so I can't make a fair comparison between the two.

Big Eyes is a female fronted punk band, who are definitely taking cues from 90's bands like The Muffs, but who don't really tie it all together for me. At least on the 2 songs on this 7". They're not bad and if you miss some of those old 90's bands, this might be more up your alley than mine. As usual for Dirtnap, the 1st 200 are on colored vinyl, and you know I have to keep up on my Dirtnap releases. Just about the best label going these days.

Big Eyes Side:
bigeyes.bandcamp.com/album/big-eyes-mean-jeans-split

Mean Jeans Side:
meanjeans.bandcamp.com/album/big-eyes-split

Warm Soda - S/T LP - Translucent Blue w/ Rainbow Splatter Vinyl (/250)

Warm Soda - S/T LP - Translucent Blue w/ Rainbow Splatter Vinyl (/250), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Castle Face (2013)

A band recommended to me by my fellow brethren in Speedo's Army, Warm Soda couldn't actually be farther from the tried and true sonic assault of a Rocket From The Crypt or Hot Snakes. Warm Soda is a band that specializes in building choruses, slick guitar and breathy vocals.

Too be completely honest, if these songs weren't as good as they are (and they are really, really good) the production on the vocals would probably drive me insane. It's an echo-y, breathy effect that really could not possibly work for anyone else, but on this album, it does actually work. Carried on the pure strength of the songwriting, Warm Soda's debut is easily one of the best records I've heard in 2013, and let's give credit where it's due, 2013 has been a beast of a year so far and we're only in mid February.

The colored vinyl option was limited to 250 copies and was only sold on the Castle Face Records website. From what I gather it has already sold out, but it's one of the prettier splatter's I've seen.

Warm Soda - Waiting For Your Call:
soundcloud.com/castle-face-1/warm-soda-waiting-for-your

Mother's Children - See The Other Guy 7" - Clear Vinyl, Alternate Cover(/100)

Mother's Children - See The Other Guy 7" - Clear Vinyl, Alternate Cover (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Ptrash (2012)

I've been meaning to get around to this 7" for quite a while now and I couldn't even give a good reason as to why it's taken so long. Mother's Children put out a 7" in 2009, one of my favorite records of 2010, a killer 12" EP in 2011 and this 7" in 2012. I'm hopeful that we'll see another LP this year as the band just consistently releases such great, great songs.

To compare Mother's Children to another band, I almost always put them in the same category as someone else that garner's heavy play around here; Marvelous Darlings. They both have a glammy edge to their power pop and both write some of the catchiest hooks you're going to find. The record you see above is the Ptrash Club Version, on clear vinyl with different artwork from the regular release. I think I actually prefer the art to the normal version, but there's just something that makes it impossible for me not to have the more rare of the two. It's a sickness.

Mother's Children - See the Other Guy 7":
motherschildren.bandcamp.com/album/see-the-other-guy-ep

Windian Records Subscription Series #1 7" Box Set (/200)

Windian Records Subscription Series #1 7" Box Set (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Windian (2013)

It was only a couple of days ago that I expressed my love of 7" singles series, and here is another example of a label doing it perfectly. In addition to being able to subscribe to a 7" series featuring for sure 2 bands that I love (Barreracudas & Heavy Times), getting to hear 3 other bands I wasn't particularly familiar with and a very affordable price; this series also came as a fancy box set with a big booklet and a pin. The art of the whole set is fantastic and I absolutely love the zigzag sleeves of the individual records.

Music-wise, I knew going in that Barreracudas and Heavy Times were great bands, and neither disappoint, delivering stellar songs for their 7"s. Of the 3 new bands I think the one I liked the least was Static Eyes. Though certainly not bad by any stretch of the imagination; the vocals are a little scuzzier & shouty than I typically prefer. Suns of Guns serve up swampy, lead guitar driven stomp-punk songs that sound like they could derail at any possible second. And I mean that in the best possible way.

The big winner here for me is the last band, Terry Malts. A band I had never even heard of before, but a band that really impressed me with their contributions. Fast and catchy punk with a singer that reminds me a bit of a less bass-y Calvin Johnson. Just a great set of records and Windian is even nicer than a lot of labels and if you want to buy just individual records, they'll let you do that too. But do yourself a favor and pick up the box set, amazingly it looks like they actually still have some left in their store.

Windian Records Subscription Series #1 7" Box Set:
soundcloud.com/windian-records/sets/windian-subscription-...

Peach Kelli Pop - S/T LP (#2) - Blue Vinyl (/300)

Peach Kelli Pop - S/T LP (#2) - Blue Vinyl (/300), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Burger (2013)

This is the 2nd Peach Kelli Pop album, following up on her debut that came out on Going Gaga a couple years ago. This time out she's on Burger Records who have a limited version on blue vinyl, limited to 300 copies.

Peach Kelli Pop plays an uptempo, breezy pop that, in the hands of someone less skilled, would not typically be my cup of tea. She manages to take elements of bands like Cub and mesh them with hints of The White Wires (a band Allie is also a part of) to create a fun, 60's style party. More than anything, when I listen to this  record it really reminds me of the band The Shitbirds, and boy were they great. Maybe Peach Kelli Pop will write some songs about Ren & Stimpy on her next album too...

Peach Kelli Pop - Dreamphone:
soundcloud.com/burgerrecords/peach-kelli-pop-dreamphone

Jack White - Live At Third Man Records 2xLP - Blue/Black Split ColorVinyl

Jack White - Live At Third Man Records 2xLP - Blue/Black Split Color Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Third Man (2012)

As with yesterday's 7", this live 2xLP was a part of the Third Man Vault series, and was the reason I signed up. At the best of times I'm not a huge fan of live albums, so why did I buy this? To be truthful, I was primarily sold on the lenticular cover. Lenticular things are like those old cracker jack prizes, where if you look at the image from one angle, you see something, but if you look at it from another angle, the image changes. This album cover has 2 different images of Jack White that go back and forth as you adjust how you're holding the cover. I tried to take a picture right in the middle of the 2 images, but not sure I really captured it well.

As for the record, it's pretty good. Solid live recording, White plays solo tracks, White Stripes songs and covers. It's a fun show and he's obviously having a good time playing. He plays in front of 2 different backing bands, the Peacocks on sides 1 and 2 and the Buzzards on 3 and 4. Frankly, I can't really tell the difference. Though I don't imagine this will get tons of heavy play from me in the future, it is a really good live show and the packaging is just off the charts cool.

Jack White - Dead Leaves & The Dirty Ground:
soundcloud.com/thirdmanrecords/dead-leaves-and-the-dirty-1

Jack White - Freedom At 21 Demo 7" - Blunderblue Vinyl

Jack White - Freedom At 21 Demo 7" - Blunderblue Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Third Man (2012)

First off, let me get this out of the way right off the bat; the label is referring to this color as blunderblue, not me. It looks like light blue to me. Anyway, this 7" comes from Third Man Records Vault series, where you have to sign up in advance and you get a handful of records. As I am far from a Jack White superfan, I had never joined for a vault package before, but the 2xLP Live album (which I'll be posting tomorrow) was enough to make me give it a whirl. Also in this package was this 7" of demos from Jack White's latest album.

Frankly, it's a waste of wax. 3 really short acoustic demos of partial songs. I suppose diehards would appreciate the glimpse into the Jack White songwriting process. Me, I listened to it and thought "when they hell am I ever going to listen to half songs again?" I'm sure I could stick this on eBay and do pretty well with it, but I do want to keep my vault set all together. Can't find these demos streaming anywhere online, but again, you're not missing anything.

Big In Japan - Destroy The New Rock LP

Big In Japan - Destroy The New Rock LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Honest Dons (2001)

I was such a huge fan of the band Zoinks. When Zac left that band, it was indeed a sad day. They managed to sputter through a lackluster LP without him, but the writing was on the wall. Zac briefly appeared in the band Crushstory, but his full on return came with Big In Japan. When this record came out I was just completely disappointed with it. Not only did I not pick up the vinyl, but the CD I got for free didn't even survive one of my prunings many years ago. When the Vinyl Junkie distro closed up and they had their mega-sale, this was one of the records on the list and for $4, I decided to give it another shot.

What a difference a decade makes. This album is so much better than I remember it being. Sure, it's missing some of the punch and speed that made Zoinks so great, but in slowing down the tempo a bit the lyrics and melodies really stand out. As I was going through the album, I just kept wondering why I didn't like this when it first came out. Sure there's a couple of stinkers, but literally a couple; 2 bad songs on the whole record. I am so glad I gave this album another shot. I guess you can't call it a throwback when it's already 12 years old, but it certainly took me back.

Big In Japan - Dig That Stupid Sound:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayu6RKcxwv4

Timeshares / Dividers - Split 7" - Red Vinyl (/100)

Timeshares / Dividers - Split 7" - Red Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

All In Vinyl (2012)

I am an absolute sucker for 7" singles series. I just love the idea of fronting a bunch of money and then being surprised to get something fun in the mail every so often. I'm currently enrolled in several and almost always welcome the opportunity to join more. All In Vinyl demonstrates one of the big reasons I like this sort of thing. This is the 3rd year in a row I've subscribed to their series. You can buy these 7"s on their own, but if you are one of the 100 subscribers to the whole set you get an exclusive vinyl color. Later on in the year, The Steve Adamyk Band is putting out a 7" in this club, so there was no way I wasn't going to subscribe.

The 2 bands on this 7" are both new to me. Though I've heard of Timeshares I'd never actually heard any of their songs. I really enjoyed their contributions, mixing gruff but melodic vocals to Tom Petty inspired guitar riffs. I felt a kinship between them and bands like Nude Beach or Unwelcome Guests; it's really good.

Dividers are a band I'd never heard of before and although the songs are good, playing a somewhat shouty punk rock that reminds me of Iron Chic. I can't say that they are the sort of songs that I'd go back to over and over again, but both of these bands highlight why I love 7" clubs. I never would have bought this record on its own, but now I've been introduced to 2 really good bands all because I wanted a variant 7" of a band coming down the road.

Timeshares - Split 7":
timeshares.bandcamp.com/album/split-w-dividers

Dividers - Split 7"
dividers.bandcamp.com/album/timeshares-dividers-split

Heavy Times - I'm Single 7" - Gold Vinyl (/200)

Heavy Times - I'm Single 7" - Gold Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

HoZac (2012)

While I was a pretty big fan of the recent Heavy Times full length Jacker; I'm pretty floored by how great this 7" is. I was certainly expecting it to be good, but I was not prepared for just how darn catchy these 3 songs are. This 7" really highlights Heavy Times' abilities to craft a perfect 2-3 minute long pop song.

Lead guitar riffs hold down the melody complimented by a sturdy rhythm section driving the songs along. If this is the direction the band is heading, I am A-OK with that. As always HoZac presses the first 200 copies of their records on gold vinyl, so you know that I need to get in on that first pressing.

Heavy Times - I'm Single:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EFBHx8iu2c

George Harrison - Cloud 9 LP

George Harrison - Cloud 9 LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Dark Horse (1987)

Never let it be said that I also don't appreciate the classics. Growing up I dove into 60's rock and Stax and all manner of wonderful tunes. Of course I love the Beatles, I feel like most people do. I watched a fascinating documentary about George Harrison on HBO a year or so ago. What a great man. He's got a lot of pretty fantastic records, but my favorite was always Cloud 9. It probably has a lot to do with the fact that in 1987 I was 11 years old; old enough to know that this record came out. It's part of my childhood as I heard it often at my dad's house. I think it had staying power with me because of the Jeff Lynne production. I do love ELO.

Anyway, although this CD has been in my collection for a while, I got this record as part of a trade gone awry. The records that were traded to me weren't in the condition I was expecting (we've got some pretty roughed up corners on this LP and some scratches on some of the other ones I received), but I ended up working out a deal with the other guy and just paid him for the records rather than send them back. Worked out well for everyone.

George Harrison - When We Was Fab:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kxr3tV-ieyY

George Harrison - Devil's Radio:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBGPMWFvJ-U