Waterslide (2013)
There is nothing I won't say in this write up about the music that I haven't said roughly a million times before. Steve Adamyk Band is one of my absolute favorite bands playing right now. This album (as well as all of their other records) are absolutely essential if you like fast paced, catchy punked up pop. This is one of the best records of the year and should be bought right away.
As for this version, this is the Japanese CD on Waterslide records. I really don't buy CDs unless there is no other version available. Even in the case where I'm collecting variants of a band, I typically just stick to vinyl. But there's something about this band that just makes me have to by every single version of every single record they put out. They're just that good. So welcome to the collection CD version. I'm sure there will be more to follow.
Steve Adamyk Band - Third:
dirtnaprecords.bandcamp.com/album/steve-adamyk-band-third
Friday, May 24, 2013
Steve Adamyk Band - Third CD
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Wimps - Repeat LP (/300)
End Of Time (2013)
If it isn't obvious, I'm always on the hunt for new bands and new music. There's something that's just so satisfying about discovering previously unknown sounds. So, I'm constantly taking chances on new bands. In the year 2013, it's pretty easy to check out a record before you buy it, and I certainly do that, but every once in a while, you just have to go in blind and that's what I did with this Wimps LP.
I heard 1 song, a song called "Naps." it was a catchy, bouncy little pop song with fuzz and hooks and all that good stuff that I like. So I picked up the record. Unfortunately all of the other songs are total let downs for me. Maybe it's just me, but I never liked the Sleater Kinney style of warbled vocals that run through this entire record. Where "Nap" has upbeat bouncy guitar, the rest of the record is just a mess of start-stop guitar and shouted lyrics.
In all, it's just not a record I want to listen to and it's really the vocals that kill it for me. If you don't mind people shouting at you, check this out. However, if you prefer a bit of melody in your singing, there's almost no way you'll like this one.
Wimps - Repeat:
endoftimerecords.bandcamp.com/album/wimps-repeat
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Rocket From The Crypt - Boychucker 7" - Black Vinyl Label Variants
Rocket From The Crypt - Boychucker 7" - Black Vinyl Label Variants, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Sympathy For The Record Industry (1994)
At this stage in my Rocket From The Crypt collecting, I'm getting really insane. As I already have the vast majority of their records, I'm hunting down the really subtle (and some might say silly) variations of records I already have. The only big ticket item that is missing from the collection right now is the Pure Genius 7" on red vinyl, so while I'm looking for that, I'm also grabbing anything else I can find that I don't already have.
Case in point; the Boychucker 7". I already have 4 different variants of the picture disc version of this 7" (Regular Version, A Side Image on Both Sides Version, Red Border Version, Tan Paper Version). I also have multiple versions of the later repress on black vinyl. Well, I can add 2 more to those variants. The difference is just the labels that are on the actual record. Several were made with generic Sympathy labels, and well, I just need them all. Nothing groundbreaking, nothing a normal person would need, but I just have to have them. The Unconditional Love of Rocket From The Crypt. There's 1 more version that I know of, so I'm still on the lookout for that.
Not for nothing, this is also one of my absolute favorite RFTC records and Boychucker is a top 3 song of theirs for me. So having a few extra versions around certainly isn't the worst thing possible.
Rocket From The Crypt - Boychucker:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeGIXdSydBc
Rocket From The Crypt - Boychucker (Live):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmlZD7ZksaY
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
The Humanoids - S/T LP - Purple Vinyl
Throwing Things (2013)
This record is some sort of secret. The band doesn't sell it or even say that it's out on any of their websites. The record label doesn't sell it on their website. They also don't really advertise that it is actually out. There's a few mentions of a vinyl release show, so I figured it had to be out there somewhere. I actually finally found a mention that a record store in St. Louis called Vintage Vinyl (not to be the confused with the one here in NJ) that was selling it online. But it's kind of silly that you have to hunt for a new record .
The hunt is worth it though, as Humanoids have a cracker of a record here. Plain and simple what should sell this to you is that Humanoids have an extremely similar sound to Dillinger Four. They channel the same energy, similar vocals and really tight hooks. I'm not saying they're a carbon copy, but of all the bands I've heard over the years aiming for a sound like this, Humanoids pull it off the best.
The cover is a screened fold over. While that leads to a pet peeve of mine (no info on the album spine), the cover itself looks great. Thick cardstock and a really quality screening job. The purple vinyl has some other colors swirled in, probably a "mixed-color-vinyl" special from one of the pressing plants. Sometime that results in some drab looking grays, but this purple is sharp.
The total package, but I can't find any of the songs streaming online anywhere, so you may have to take my word for it and take a chance. This is a record you should go out of your way to buy, which you'll have to do because they certainly don't make it easy for you. I'll help you out; you can grab it here: www.vintagevinyl.com/ (you'll have to search for "Humanoids" once you get on that site because you can't direct link to any of the records they have. No one will make this easy!)
Monday, May 20, 2013
The Novice - What You Want 7" - Black Vinyl & Yellow Vinyl (/200)
Jeff Burke has one of the most recognizable styles I've come across. Throughout his bands The Marked Men, Potential Johns and now The Novice, there's never any question that this man is in the band. He just has a knack for really unique punked out pop songs. As soon as those guitar chords shift to that unexpected area for the hook, bam, that's Jeff.
On this 7" we have 2 songs that Jeff recorded while in a band he formed in Japan called The Novice. Both are just out of this world. Certainly I cannot fathom anyone not loving them who also likes The Marked Men or Potential Johns. Sadly, this will likely be the only Novice release as Jeff has moved back to Texas, but I guess that means maybe we could see another Marked Men record someday. That would be an OK sacrifice.
As is usually the case with Dirtnap, the first 200 of these were on colored vinyl, and there's no way I'm not getting variants when a member of The Marked Men is involved. A great record.
The Novice - What You Want 7"
dirtnaprecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-novice-s-t-7
Friday, May 17, 2013
Resonars - Crummy Desert Sound LP - Blue Vinyl (150)
Burger (2013)
Over the past few years, numerous friends have pointed me to The Resonars with mixed results. I've heard individual songs that were outstanding and I've purchased whole albms that I felt were wildly inconsistent. After the band's most recent (and incredible) 7" on Trouble In Mind, I decided I'd give their next album a shot as well. That album is Crummy Desert Sound, and boy am I glad I gave this band another chance.
Crummy Desert Sound is crammed full of catchy harmonies and 60's British invation style rock and roll. It's a pretty straight forward pop record and the songs are just incredible. There are a lot of bands that have a retro vibe these days, but the Resonars sound so much more authentic. The backing vocals are head and shoulders above almost any band I can think of. This is a definite must check out, plus rumor has it that they will actually have another full length later this year on Trouble In Mind, so hopefully there will be even more greatness to enjoy sooner than later.
The first 150 copies came out on sky blue vinyl, but that is currently sold out and I am really relieved I grabbed one when I did as I'd hate to have heard this record later and realized I had to go track it down.
The Resonars - The World is Wrong:
soundcloud.com/burgerrecords/the-resonars-the-world-is
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Plow United - Marching Band LP - Mixed Color Vinyl (/100)
Jump Start (2013)
When news got out that Plow United was back together, playing shows AND recording a new album, I went in with some slight trepidation. At the best of times, big name bands crumble under the lofty expectations of a reunion and most smaller bands honestly don't even bother. Being from New Jersey I am very familiar with Plow United's work in the 90's, I don't think I could count the number of times I saw them play (Though one of my very favorite times was when they played with Porcelain Boys at the Pipeline in Newark). To me they were an important band, but it also seemed to me at the time that they weren't known as well outside of our little community of punk rockers. I was surprised when they announced their reunion and I wasn't sure what I would think of their new material.
Well, this really is a great record. Plow United have managed to keep the bulk of their enthusiasm and most importantly the speed of their songs in tact. Sure there are a few tracks that slow things down a bit and one or two that have a slight (and really, I mean slight) twang to them, but in general it sounds like a band picking up where they left off. Older, and tackling subject matter that's more important to me as I also got older. Plow United is a band that has aged with me, and while I don't feel all that old (most of the time), the things that are important to me have changed over the years. It's interesting to hear that from a band as well.
The first half of the record, in particular, is just a scorcher and by the time they get the to the "We do, we do!" hook at the end of "Cui Bono," I'm just about ready to grab a torch and a pitchfork and storm whatever castle is responsible. I tend to prefer the faster songs like "Cui Bono," "Act Like It" and album closer "Meggers." The one time they lose me on the record is on "Get Low." There's nothing inherently wrong with the song itself, but I just don't like the voice of the person singing the duet (I believe it's Mimi Gallagher of the band Nona, but it's not explicitly spelled out in the liner notes). Every time I hear the song it just makes me think of the Atom & His Rockage song "(She's Just A) Head."
That is really the slightest speed bump in a record that I am just thrilled with. When a band has been broken up as long as Plow United has, there's always that chance they won't live up to what you remember. In this case, they not only lived up, they probably exceed what they did on their last pre-breakup record Narcolepsy. Plow, stay together this time. The 30 somethings need you.
Plow United - Marching Band:
jumpstartrecords.bandcamp.com/album/marching-band
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Rocket From The Crypt - Paint As A Fragrance LP - Orange Mush Vinyl
Rocket From The Crypt - Paint As A Fragrance LP - Orange Mush Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Headhunter (1991)
Another Headhunter variant of the first Rocket From The Crypt record. Considering how many times I've posted a new picture of this album on this website, I don't have a lot to say about it this time out, other than to remind you what great songs "French Guy" and "Maybelline" are. This latest repress on all these different colors is a little wacky and if it wasn't for the fact that Rocket is my favorite band in the world I doubt I'd be going after all these versions. That being said, I know there's a green one out there, if anyone wants to hook me up with it, please get in touch.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
The Thermals - Desperate Ground LP - Red w/ Smoke Vinyl (/500)
Saddle Creek (2013)
The sixth and one of the best albums from a band I go way back with, The Thermals. It is no secret that I love, LOVE, the 1st 2 Thermals albums. I was just obsessed with the band and saw them play live more times than I could count. Since then their records have been a bit uneven for me. I did like Now We Can See, but I could take or leave The Body The Blood The Machine or Personal Life. I felt like they just didn't capture the energy of the first 2 records.
On Desperate Ground the energy is back. The Thermals tear through the songs on this record, with fuzz and distortion and tons of hooks. The lo fi spur of the moment sound is what always made The Thermals stand out to me and I'm just so thrilled that feeling is back on their records. If I had 1 negative thing to point out, I would say that I wish the guitar was a little louder in the mix. It get's lost in the vocals & rhythm section on a couple of songs. Despite that very minor complaint, Desperate Ground is absolutely the best Thermals album in years and I truly, truly hope that when it comes time for album 7 they keep up the fuzz.
The version of the record in the picture above is the 180g red w/ smoke color vinyl that was only sold through the Saddle Creek store and from the band on tour. They only pressed 500 on colored vinyl and from the looks of the Saddle Creek store, those are sold out. best chance to get one would probably be from the band.
The Thermals - Born To Kill
soundcloud.com/saddlecreek/the-thermals-born-to-kill
Monday, May 13, 2013
Real Numbers - Only Two Can Play 12"
Three Dimensional (2013)
A couple of years ago I wrote about a 7" by the band Real Numbers. I really enjoyed it, though truthfully I haven't listened to it all that much since then. I'm going to assume that write up was the reason that I was sent this 12". I don't get a lot of people mailing me records to review, so I always consider it a real treat when someone likes my silly website to send me something to listen to. It's even better when it's a band I already like.
As for this specific 12", I like it. It doesn't strike me the same way the 7" did, but over the course of the 6 songs on this EP, Real Numbers do crank out some real hits. In general, I wish the band had a little more oomph behind them, especially in the vocals which at times come off as being nasal and a bit disinterested. But when the band really gets cranking, they jangle-y guitars and great hooks definitely make up for this.
On the highlights of the EP "This Time He's Gone Too Far" and "Ordeal" is where the band shines, plying a craft that reminds me a lot of the more low key moments of bands like Cold Warps. If you like a clean, mod guitar sound with a retro vibe, this is a band that you'll want to check out.
Real Numbers - Only Two Can Play 12":
real-numbers.bandcamp.com/album/only-two-can-play
Friday, May 10, 2013
Dumpster Babies - S/T LP - Red Vinyl
Dumpster Babies are a band that on the surface have a couple of things going against them. 1st is the fact that I'm not really keen on the name of the band and second is the fact that the first song on the album is called "Dumpster Babies." Naming a song after your band name is always a dicey proposition (Just ask H.A.R.D.C.O.R.P.S), but somehow, not only do Dumpster Babies overcome these obstacles, that song just might be my favorite on the whole album.
This is a band that plays relaxed, good time sloppy rock and roll. And I mean that in the absolute most complimentary way possible. There are bands that you think are super particular and deliberate in the studio, resulting in a cold sounding record. This Dumpster Babies record just sounds like it was a blast to record. The songs are fun, the energy is loose, but focused and more than anything the songs are there.
Most everything is pretty darn catchy with awesome hooks. The lower key stuff has a more retro 60's vibe, while some of the faster garage-y ones remind me a lot of Earthmen & Strangers or The Yolks (Both who incidentally really have taken too long to follow up their last albums, provided they're still bands anyway). Dumpster Babies have created one of those records that just gets better the more you listen as I'm constantly discovering a song that was in the background the first time through that suddenly jumps out as one of the highlights. A great debut record by a band that I'm eager to hear more from. Excellent 1st release, Tall Pat Records.
Dumpster Babies - 4 songs off the album:
dumpsterbabies.bandcamp.com/
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #13 - Night Marchers / Mrs. Magician - Split 7" -White Vinyl
Record Store Day Haul #13 - Night Marchers / Mrs. Magician - Split 7" - White Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Closing up my run of records bought on Record Store Day 2013 is lucky number 13; the Night Marchers / Mrs. Magician split 7". This record is in a bit of a grey area as far as whether I should count it as a Record Store Day release. It was sent out to stores for April 20th. It wasn't listed on the Official Record Store Day list. Plus when the 2 bands went on tour a few months ago, they sold 300 copies of the split. Sadly they sold out at the show I went to, so I had to rely on the kindness of #TeamSwami to help grab me a copy (My local record stores didn't stock any copies for RSD either). So I'm going to include it in the wrap up, otherwise feel free to view this write as a transition back to non-RSD records for tomorrow.
These guys are 2 of my current favorite bands in the world. The Speedo led Night Marchers have years of goodwill stored up with me and they do not disappoint with their ripper from this 7" "La Gloria." A hook laden rocker that builds and changes in ways that only Night Marchers seem to be able to pull off. Another stellar effort.
Mrs. Magician, on the flip side, is responsible for putting out what is probably my favorite record of the past 5 years or so; Strange Heaven. Their effort, "Despicable Things," once again reaffirms my belief that they are the best thing going in rock and roll right now. Packed full of harmonies, yet slightly darker than the bulk of the songs on their LP, "Despicable Things" is just flat out great. I can't wait to hear more Mrs. Magician. They have a 7" planned on Windian later in the year , but I want more. I know there's more leftovers from their unreleased album Pity Party Animal. "Get Bent" and "Tabloids" have to come out on vinyl. Did I mention that I want more?
Mrs. Magician - Despicable Things:
soundcloud.com/mrs-magician/despicable-things
(Couldn't find the NM track streaming anywhere)
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #12 - Giant Henry - Big Baby LP - Grey Vinyl
Record Store Day Haul #12 - Giant Henry - Big Baby LP - Grey Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Numero (2013)
For all purposes Giant Henry is really Unwound. Or at least it's Unwound while they were still in high school. Giant Henry was the band they originally formed that set them on their path for indie rock sort-of-super-stardom. I really liked Unwound when I was younger and in particular I enjoyed the first couple of their records the most, so I was intrigued when this was announced for Record Store Day. I figured that it could go 2 ways. it could be great like early Unwound or it could be terrible since it was a high school band. Surprisingly, it's somewhere in the middle.
I'll say this, I pretty much can guarantee that Giant Henry was better than whatever bands you went to high school with. They're certainly better than the ones I went to high school with anyway. While no where near as refined or dynamic as Unwound, Giant Henry was definitely on to something. They had the noisy breakdowns, they had the screechy guitar squall and more than anything they had that quintessential Pacific Northwest vibe.
While I'm looking forward to Numero's Unwound reissue project more, and even though this isn't a record that will probably get a ton of play from me, I am very excited to have this in the collection as it is an interesting look at the genesis of a band that was only a few years away from being truly great. Extra thanks to @eekrock for picking this up for me as my Record Store Day stores didn't stock it.
Giant Henry - Super Nova:
soundcloud.com/biz-3-publicity/giant-henry-super-nova/
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #11 - The Beta Band - Champion Versions 12"
My internet is down and I'm posting this from my phone so I'll keep this brief. This was a UK only RSD release sent to me courtesy of @chris_whitehead. It contains the song Dry the Rain, famous for its placement in the movie High Fidelity.
I love this song, but it's pretty much the only Beta Band song that I really like all that much. Everything else just bores me after a while. Even on this 12", by the time I get to track 4, I've had my fill of this band. But that 1 song is just so good I have to have it in vinyl.
The Beta Band - Dry The Rain:
youtube.com/#/watch?v=wsbR2dEmHGc&desktop_uri=/watch?...
Monday, May 6, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #10: V/A - Trouble In Mind Compilation 7" - WhiteVinyl (/2000)
Record Store Day Haul #10: V/A - Trouble In Mind Compilation 7" - White Vinyl (/2000), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Yes, I am still going with Record Store Day releases. I have a few more to get to, but will finish up this week. I've also received everything that friends picked up for me in other parts of the country (& world) and mailed over, so I'll be able to go straight through all of the Record Store Day records I bought without having to skip a day.
Every year Trouble in Mind puts out a Record Store Day 7" of bands from their label doing cover songs. It becomes an annual hunt as the stores by me never stock it. But, each year I do manage to track down a copy. It's always an important record to pick up as I am sitting on a complete collection of Trouble In Mind 7"s on colored vinyl (been buying since day 1!) and need to keep it complete.
That being said, this yearly compilation is never anything particularly exciting. This year, I really like the Resonars song, but the other three bands (Jacco Gardner, Mmoss & Maston) just don't do anything for me. When Trouble In Mind is doing pop or garage rock they can do no wrong, but they also put out a lot of throwback psych bands. The psych revival thing is just going completely over my head. I don't think the bands are necessarily playing anything bad; I just don't like psych (or the kind of music everyone seems calling baroque or chamber pop).
Still, happy to keep the 7" collection going and you know I'll be on the hunt once again come Record Store Day 2014.
Friday, May 3, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #9: The Animals - Is Here 10" / Are Back 10"
Record Store Day Haul #9: The Animals - Is Here 10" / Are Back 10", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
When i first saw these 10"s listed on the Record Store Day lists, I thought that it was a bit silly. Sure it's the chance to own mono versions of my 3 favorite Animals songs on vinyl. They're reproductions of original 7"s, but it seemed like a cash grab to me to have these put out this time as 10"s instead of 7"s. At $12 a pop, it just seemed expensive, even though I decided that I was going to pick them up anyway.
I will say this, it was worth every penny because to my humble ears, these 2 records sound outstanding. The 10"s format at 45rpm just gives the grooves and the songs space to breathe and I have never, ever heard any of these songs sound better than they do on these 10"s. I am so happy I stuck to my guns and bought them despite the high price tag as I predict listening to these guys pretty often.
The Animals - House Of The Rising Sun:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0-czS8PTBU
The Animals - Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dcc_W49qoVA
The Animals - We Gotta Get Out of This Place:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxNEiZhpinY
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #8: The White Stripes - Elephant 2xLP - Red/BlackSplit Vinyl & White Vinyl
Record Store Day Haul #8: The White Stripes - Elephant 2xLP - Red/Black Split Vinyl & White Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
I'm not sure exactly what it is about Jack White; but I always seem to feel like I have to be on the defensive when I talk about how I enjoy his records. There's just something he does that rubs people the wrong way. I assume it's more of a personality thing than a music thing; as the songs he writes are totally harmless. But I always get a lot of blow back when I say I'm a fan.
Truth be told I'm not even a super big fan. I like his records and I'll listen to them occasionally, but I'm certainly not trying to hunt down wacky variants or records he's tied to balloons. I'll pick up his more affordable records.
This brings us to the Record Store Day version of Elephant. The original has been out of print for a while and I didn't have this on vinyl. So why not pick it up. It's a good record with a handful of really, really great songs. The reissue looks great and I'm just such a sucker for split color vinyl. I really do need to pick up the other White Stripes LPs at some point. I have all of the records on CD (old music biz freebies) but I definitely need to finish off the collection eventually. Hopefully cheaply.
The White Stripes - Elephant (YouTube playlist):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=0J2QdDbelmY&list=PLEE233AD5F9...
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #7: The Zombies - S/T LP (/1000)
One of the big complaints I've been hearing about Record Store Day the last few years is how the vast, vast majority of what is being released are unnecessary reissues. Now, on principal, I will agree with this statement. I would much rather have Record Store Day filled with releases like the Superchunk 7"; two new exclusive songs, limited and gone. That being said, some of the reissues that come out are pretty cool in my estimation.
The Zombies reissue totally fits the bill. They've re-released the mono version of the album, they only pressed up 1000 and it's on 180g vinyl. Compared to the original mono pressing, this reissue is absolutely the best chance for someone like me to get a decent playable copy of the record.
I don't want a thrift store quality version and I'm certainly not going to pay the silly prices a good condition original copy sells for on eBay. For me, this reissue was just a perfect way to pick up a good priced version of a record just full of hit songs that I've been hearing my entire life.
The Zombies - She's Not There:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5IRI4oHKNU
The Zombes - Tell her No:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezSMbQKQEJI
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #6: Superchunk - Void/Faith 7" - Coke Bottle Clear Vinyl (/1000)
Record Store Day Haul #6: Superchunk - Void/Faith 7" - Coke Bottle Clear Vinyl (/1000), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Superchunk has just been on an absolute tear these past few years. Everything they touch turns to gold and this Record Store Day 7" is no exception. Two trademark Superchunk punched up pop songs once again just making me freak out waiting for their next full length.
This actually ended up being the record I was most worried about acquiring on Record Store Day. Though I spent most of my time in line at the store fretting about the Rocket From The Crypt reissues; when the guy in front of me got the last copy of the Superchunk 7" I went into panic mode. It seemed that most of the other folks I had been talking too around the country over the course of the day were running into similar issues (though one of them managed to snag me the Giant Henry LP with what seemed like minimal hassle).
Luckily my friend @polianarchy in Philadelphia managed to score this 7" for me and I am super grateful to her. I have a pretty hefty Superchunk 7" collection and it would have been a real shame for there to be one missing. And no one really wants to buy a brand new 2 day old record for collector prices on eBay, do they? Well, I don't anyway. Thanks #TeamSwami!
Monday, April 29, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #5: The Thermals - Desperate Ground Demos 7"
Record Store Day Haul #5: The Thermals - Desperate Ground Demos 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Though The Thermals are one of my favorite bands, they've never really done anything on record store day that's very special. In fact, the vast majority of their 7"s in general are kind of similar. Album tracks & demos for the most part. I just get the feeling that they never really embraced the format as anything other than an album teaser. There's nothing inherently wrong with that; but it just makes collecting their 7"s more like collecting baseball cards as I almost never listen to any of them.
Their Record Store Day 2013 release is more of the same. 4 demo versions of 4 songs from their latest album. Honestly, it's not a really stark difference from the final product as Desperate Ground is one of the more lo fi sounding records in their catalog as it is. It was very important for me to get this record as I need to keep my Thermals collection complete, I just wish they would do something really cool and exclusive one year. Heck, even a 7" full of covers or something would have far more replay value than demos. Maybe next year.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #4: Samiam - Clumsy LP - Red Vinyl (/1500)
I completely blew it and missed the boat on Samiam back in the 90's. I couldn't really even tell you why. I think I heard a song or two that I didn't like and then completely wrote off the entire band's catalog. I really just never listened to them. Well, I screwed that up pretty good, because Samiam are pretty stellar.
I am lucky as just about all of Samiam's full lengths have recently been or are in the process of being reissued. Clumsy was a Record Store Day 2013 release on red vinyl, limited to 1500 copies. It was one of the top wants on my list this year and I was able to grab a copy without incident.
The record itself is great. Clumsy was Samiam's major label debut, and it sounds like one. The production is maybe a bit glossier than I typically go for, but considering what else was coming out at the time, it makes total sense and I actually think it helps the songs shine even more. What really struck me about the record is how much it reminds me of Goosefair by China Drum. Maybe not as much as far as songwriting goes (as I think China Drum is just one of the all time greatest bands), but certainly in the way the album, especially the vocals, sound.
This is probably an ass backwards reference and I'm sure this would be a statement more useful in trying to get people to listen to China Drum than it is a way to describe Samiam. Regardless, this is a great record and I am full bore on the hunt to grab the rest of the Samiam discography.
Samiam - As We're Told:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy-DqNGlATE
Samiam - Capsized:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=erxi9MgF-ms
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #3: Stephen Malkmus - Can's Ege Bamyasi LP -Green Vinyl
Record Store Day Haul #3: Stephen Malkmus - Can's Ege Bamyasi LP - Green Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
This record was $30. This single LP record was $30. That's my big takeaway from this album, that I cannot believe it was selling in the store for $30. I didn't even notice it was this expensive. In the fray that is Record Store Day morning, I was just having my want list filled as quickly as possible and was rushing out of the first store so I could get in line at the 2nd store. It wasn't until much later in the afternoon that I noticed how much I paid for this record. There's just no justification for this price.
On the plus side, the art is nice and the colored vinyl looks good. The cover is a screened (printed?) fold over so it does create one of my big pet peeves; no album spine. But it does look nice.
Musically it's OK. It's a live performance of Stephen Malkmus playing some Can songs. I can't say I've ever really cared that much for Can and I'm certainly not intimately familiar with any of their work. The songs that Malkmus cover range from interesting to tedious. There's a few upbeat songs that actually have some basic pop song structure to them, but there is also a great deal of meandering and shrill guitar noodling. Some good, some bad.
At the end of the day, I do like the fact that I was able to pick up this record and add it to the collection, but I just can't get over how unnecessarily expensive it was. I just feel like I got rooked and played like a sucker for Record Store Day. I understand that some of the records are going to be somewhat overpriced (there's a lot of people trying to get their hands in the cookie jar), but this one I can't justify.
Stephen Malkmus - I'm So Green:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=voIahZ-xQJU
Stephen Malkmus - Vitamin C:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCU49wasIw0
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #2: Rocket From The Crypt - Live From Camp X-RayLP -Orange w/ Black Splatter Vinyl (/500)
Record Store Day Haul #2: Rocket From The Crypt - Live From Camp X-Ray LP -Orange w/ Black Splatter Vinyl (/500), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Second of the two records that put me in line in front of a record store at 3:30 in the morning. Getting this and Group Sounds were the absolute number one priorities of my Record Store Day and I consider myself quite lucky to have grabbed them both. In particular I think Live From Camp X-Ray looks phenomenal.
I was so excited about this record when it originally came out and I still love it today. It's just a fast, rough blast of rock and roll. No frills, no waiting around; just an all out assault. I remember some folks complaining that the record was too short or that they didn't like the recording quality and little complaints like that, but I've always loved it. To me, there's just something to be said about an album like this that's just short, too the point and LOUD.
Sound quality wise; again I can tell very little difference from the first pressing. It's possible the bass has been upped every so slightly, but really there's not much of a difference that I can hear. Where this record really gets me is the colored vinyl. Orange with Black Splatter is such a great compliment to the artwork, so cheers to whoever came up with this idea. I think it's one of the best matched vinyl colors to artwork that I own. If you can find one of these, I don't see how you don't pick it it.
Rocket From The Crypt - I'm Not Invisible:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQR8GSKuRQY
Rocket From The Crypt - I Can't Feel My Head:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=07pED24o5KE
Rocket From The Crypt - Bring Us Bullets:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=02Yrl4nfEAo
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Record Store Day Haul #1: Rocket From The Crypt - Group Sounds LP -White w/ Yellow Splatter Vinyl (/500)
Record Store Day Haul #1: Rocket From The Crypt - Group Sounds LP - White w/ Yellow Splatter Vinyl (/500), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
I'll start off the Record Store Day scores with the first of the two records I wanted the most. The two Rocket From The Crypt reissues are pretty much the reason that I got in line at a record store at 3:30 in the morning. I then spent the next 4 1/2 hours trying to figure out if the people in line in front of me were going to get these LPs before I had the chance. Though admittedly kind of stupid of me, I was so stressed out the whole time I waited. But my luck held out and I managed to get Group Sounds and Live At Camp X-Ray (which I'll write about tomorrow).
Group Sounds hit at such a perfect time for me. I was done with college, I was just starting to find my place at the job in the music industry I had started and it had just felt like forever since the last Rocket album had come out. I heard Group Sounds about a month or two before release date. I actually walked to the office of another promotion company that we were working with to pick up a copy and bring it back to the office. I just remember being blown out of my chair from the very second Straight American Slave hit.
This record is just so tough. It's loud, it's brazen, it's just one of the most intense records floating around out there. Every song on here just makes me want to jump around like a mad man (which I did at many, many Rocket From The Crypt shows) until the very last song; Ghost Shark. Ghost Shark is just a perfect slow, creepy album closer that lets you catch you breath and gather your wits about you before moving on to whatever you're about to do next.
The Record Store Day reissue sounds really good. I'm not really sure if they've made any changes to the audio quality as compared to my original press, but both sound great to me. The white vinyl with yellow streaks/splatter looks especially cool as I've always been a sucker for white vinyl. The whole package looks great, and being limited to 500 copies makes me extremely glad I was able to track one down. Tomorrow we'll talk Live From Camp X-Ray.
Rocket From The Crypt - Straight American Slave:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_Xy8nZsfqU
Rocket From The Crypt - Savoir Faire:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dP-epnQZNU
Rocket From The Crypt - Ghost Shark:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ortPBCrOcHk
Monday, April 22, 2013
Record Store Visit: Princeton Record Exchange - Princeton, NJ -04/20/13 (RSD13)
Record Store Visit: Princeton Record Exchange - Princeton, NJ - 04/20/13 (RSD13), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
The Princeton Record Exchange was always the store that was a rare treat for me when I was younger. It was easily the store that was furthest away from me, but was still within range to get to. It took an hour each way driving commitment; so we didn't get out there a lot. What Princeton was great for then (and maybe still now but I don't go in that section as much anymore) was used CDs. They were so cheap and so plentiful. I can only assume they were siphoning promos from the local campus radio station like crazy as everything was pretty current too.
These days my record buying budget isn't as tight as it was in college, so I tend to stay in the area of the store where my heart truly lies; the vinyl section. They have a really strong selection. A little something of everything. I'm always surprised by the smaller niche bands they manage to stock. I will say that they have always been terrible about 7"s, there's almost none in the entire store, but for LPs they are absolutely worth the trip down.
For Record Store Day 2013, they were the 2nd store we went to. We got there at 9:30am (store opens at 10:00) and were pretty far back in line. I would say there were probably 100 - 150 people ahead of us, but I'm not great at judging the size of a crowd. What I will say is this, Princeton Record Store is terrible at managing Record Store Day.
Rather than keep all of the records behind a counter and get people what they want, they literally make people stand at one end of their Record Store Day section and go down the aisle row by row. You have to flip through every single record to pick out the titles that you want. As you can imagine, this makes the line take FOREVER. Though I was lucky and The Thermals 7" I was waiting in line for all that time was still around by the time I got my turn, it's really just insane to make people get their records in this manner. We arrived at 9:30 and didn't get out of there until nearly 2. Again, I realize there were a lot of people in line, but I think you could have gotten everyone out much quicker if the staff (who are very, very nice) were given more control of the situation.
 |
| The line at Vintage Vinyl about an hour before the store opened |
Once the store opened, they moved at a pretty brisk pace. You give them your list they retrieve your records. Except they really don't do a good job with your list, plus random records aren't behind the counter, they are on a little display stand opposite the counter behind everyone in line. As soon as I walked in the door I saw the 2 RFTC reissues on this rack and bolted over to them. Luckily I got them, but I don't know that I would have if a couple of the people in line ahead of me were paying more attention to the layout of the store.
Once I handed my list in, I had to keep giving it back to them 3 more times as they didn't give me everything on my list after they went through it the first time. I understand they are busy and are trying to move quick, but I had been waiting outside their store for almost 5 hours, the least they could do is make sure I get everything on my list that was actually in stock. I got most of what I wanted except for the Thermals 7" (Vintage didn't get any, but I got that at Princeton) and the Superchunk 7" that the guy in front of me got the very last copy of (Luckily a friend in Philly picked me up a copy of that though - Thanks!).
All in all, despite minor organizational gripes with my stores, I had an amazing time at Record Store Day. Money was spent, records were bought and I took part in a little network of like minded friends across the country & overseas that were all helping each other get the records they wanted (#TeamSwami). I have the nicest, most patient wife in the world and I have a big stack of records to write about in the upcoming weeks; with more on their way from various friends. Can't wait until next year!
Friday, April 19, 2013
Record Store Day Eve - 2013
I plan on starting up at Vintage Vinyl in Fords NJ. Not sure how early I'll be lining up, but certainly before they open. They'll be opening early enough where, as long as I get in and out quickly, I should be able to hit up a 2nd store after that. Store number 2 will be the Princeton Record Exchange, which is in Princeton (no shock there). I've only been to Princeton for Record Store Day once previously, but it was later in the morning after their stock had been picked pretty clean. I'm hopeful there will be more variety this time out.
As far as records go, there's a lot to buy, that's for sure. First and foremost are the 2 Rocket From The Crypt LP reissues, Group Sounds & Live From Camp X-Ray. From the picture I've seen, some pretty awesome looking colored vinyl. Other record I'm hopeful to find include the Giant Henry LP (Pre-Unwound), Superchunk 7", Thermals 7", Zombies LP and the elusive yearly Trouble In Mind compilation 7". That's not everything, but it's what I'm most excited for.
I'll be posting a lot on twitter during the day, so follow along if you are interested or avoid me like the plague if you are not. Then I'll have quite a few more records to write about in the upcoming weeks, and that's always a fun thing.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Office Of Future Plans / Daria - Split 7" - Red Vinyl (/100)
Lovitt (2013)
Split 7" between Office Of Future Plans (w/ J Robbins of Jawbox/Burning Airlines fame) and Daria (A band from France that I'd never heard of before). This 7" has a song by each band and includes a digital download with 2 extra songs by each band. I hate digital only bonus songs, the practice of doing this just drives me nuts. As silly as it sounds, I'd almost prefer the songs not exist. OK, even I'll admit that sounds pretty stupid actually typing that sentence out, but I really wish all 6 songs were available on vinyl. A 10" perhaps?
Anyway, the Office of Future Plans songs are all pretty good. Nothing as good as what's on their full length (which, though I haven't picked up yet, I have listened to and is on my post-record store day to buy list). They're a bit slower in tempo than I favor, but the last song (MP3 only) 24 Doors (a Rifle Sport cover) is a bit louder and probably my favorite of the bunch.
As noted earlier, I was unfamiliar with Daria going into this 7" and they're done a good job of impressing me. I definitely hear influence of the 90's angular DC sound, but it's still pretty upbeat & has strong catchy choruses. Makes for interesting songs and I think I need to track down one of the band's 3 records to try out some more. Plus they cover a Leatherface song (MP3 only) so that will earn some points from me as well.
Office Of Future Plans / Daria - Split 7":
lovitt.bandcamp.com/album/split-7
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
BOAT - Pretend To Be Brave LP - Red, Yellow & White Tri Color Vinyl
BOAT - Pretend To Be Brave LP - Red, Yellow & White Tri Color Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.
Magic Marker (2013)
As soon as I had heard that BOAT was putting out a new record this year, I was counting down the days. The pre-order went up in the middle of the night, so I woke up at 4am just to make sure I could get my order in right away. While it probably was unnecessary to get up that early (as the most limited package was still available a few days later), there was no way I was going to miss out on this record.
BOAT plays 90's style indie rock better than anyone on the planet right now. Every note, every melody, every lyric phrase just takes me back to when I was in high school & college where there was great music hiding around every corner. Pretend to be Brave is yet another triumph from a band that I really fell in love with when they released their last album, Dress Like Your Idols.
Despite having a song with the lyrics "On the day that I turn 33/I'll be eating nachos but it won't be with my mom/It will be with you" I would say this album is quite a bit less wacky than BOAT's last. The vibe of Pretend To Be Brave is a bit more serious; maybe a bit more focused. The songwriting is sharper, though you could make an argument that the band doesn't sound like they're having quite as much fun as they did last time out. But really, that's not even a complaint or a criticism; it's just a difference between the 2 records. Pretend to Be Brave is outstanding and one of the very best albums to come out in 2013 so far.
Also, the first 100 copies bought direct from Magic Marker came with a cassette of other bands covering this entire album called Pretend to be BOAT. I just borrowed a working tape deck (mine broke about 8 months ago) so I could listen to the cassette. I'll post a separate review of it in the coming weeks.
Boat - Sharpshooters:
soundcloud.com/boat-3/sharpshooters
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Wavves - Afraid Of Heights LP - White w/ Splatter Vinyl (/500)
Rodeo/Mom+Pop/Warner Bros (2013)
Wavves is a band that caught my ear with their last album. The crunchy guitar, loud choruses and generally catchy music appealed to this pop kid for sure. Their latest Afraid Of Heights album now has the influence of a major label behind them, but apparently that doesn't really mean anything like it did in the 90's; Wavves still sounds like the same fuzzy pop band to me. Which is a good thing.
I will say that this new Wavves album is remarkably similar to their last, King Of The Beach, to me. I'm never a fan of bands abandoning their signature sound to explore new frontiers; however there a few songs on this that seem to have the exact same chords as songs from the last album. A little more variety probably would have made the album a bit more interesting, though I suppose you could make the argument that there are a handful of slower songs this time out.
If anything, that's what's holding me back from truly gushing about this record; it's really, really similar to King Of The Beach and doesn't come off quite as fresh and exciting as the last one did. That being said, it is a great record and the splatter variant that I have is an especially neat looking slab of vinyl. It's also pretty funny seeing the Parental Advisory sticker on a record. I haven't seen one of those in a long, long time.
Wavves - Sail To The Sun:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfPNbZB6PvM
Wavves - Demon To Lean On:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBuBQz90E5E
Wavves - Afraid Of Heights:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQSxRisWN24
Monday, April 15, 2013
Flop - World Of Today 10" - White Vinyl
Frontier / Munster (1995)
I'll admit that of the 3 Flop albums, this is the one I am most unfamiliar with. While & The Fall Of The Mopsqueezer and Whenever You're Ready were kings of the CD used bins back in the 90's, this is one I never saw with much regularity. The 10" was something I never had until quite recently; amazingly bought direct from the label all these years later.
It's a great record. Most everything Flop did was aces in my book and this album is no exception. I will say that it seems weird to try to fit all of these songs on a 10", it sounds like the songs unnaturally bleed into each other. I need to really compare it to the CD version, I might just be going crazy. Couldn't find any of these songs online to share unfortunately, but it's more of the big, catchy guitar pop that few bands could pull off as good as Flop.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Suspicious Beasts - Used To Be Beautiful LP
Black Hole (2012)
Another pick up from Japan courtesy of my friend Yuki. When I heard about this band which featured ex members of Three Minute Movie, Blotto & The Urchin, I knew I had to add it to my collection immediately. Unfortunately it was proving difficult to order online; but I'm very lucky to have a friend that can make the occasional trip to a record store in Japan for me.
Suspicious Beasts definitely use the influences of each member's prior band as a jumping off point, but they definitely lean towards a more rootsy style of rock and roll. If you are into bands like The Mojomatics, Nude Beach or the twangier moments of Your Pest Band; this Suspicious Beasts LP should probably be on your shopping list. The 7 songs fly by fast, but I really enjoyed the album and am hopeful the band will have many more records for me to hunt down in the future.
Suspicious Beasts - Used To Be Beautiful LP:
blackholekuroiana.bandcamp.com/album/used-to-be-beautiful
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Youthbitch - I'm In Love With Girls 7"
If a record comes out on Dirtnap, I'm pretty much always going to buy it. Looking back I think I've only skipped 1 Dirtnap release in the last 5 years or so. When this 7" went up for sale at the same time as the new Steve Adamyk Band LP, it was a no brainer to add to cart.
I'm not really a fan of the band's name, and frankly that might have predjudiced me a bit when I put this on for the first time. My first gut reaction was that I didn't like the vocals, which come from a Nobunny high pitched fuzzy territory. Musically the band sounds really tight and they're playing some catchy tunes.
As I went through the 3 song on this 7", I did like each one better than the last and towards the end the vocals didn't bother me as much as I thought they would. I wouldn't consider this a top tier, must have 7", but it's pretty good and worth picking up. If you do like bands like Nobunny or Hunx (I'm not a fan really), then I think this would be more up your alley and should be grabbed right away.
Youthbitch - I'm In Love With Girls 7"
dirtnaprecords.bandcamp.com/album/youthbitch-im-in-love-w...
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Off With Their Heads - Home LP - Blue Vinyl (/700)
Off With Their Heads is a band that I got the heads up on pretty early in their career. That was a good thing as they have been one of the most prolific punk rock bands I've come across in a while, just releasing scores of limited 7"s. That frantic pace has slowed up a little since they signed to Epitaph a few years ago, but it would sure be an intimidating task to try to start collecting all of their records now.
Unfortunately for some record collectors, Home is the type of record that will inspire many new fans to start hunting for all of these records. It's just that good. Everything that Off With Their Heads has been doing up to this point really culminates in Home, arguably the best record they have ever released. The songs are still undeniably punk rock, but with a more refined edge to the songwriting.
While the band has always had a knack for energetic music mixed with lyrics that are honestly kind of a bummer, Home really elevates this. Where before you might write off this formula as playing for irony, this record just has an air about it that just feels important; like the band really has something to say. It makes for a record that has staying power and warrants repeat listens. There is a lot of disposable music in the world these days, but off With Their Heads have crafted the kind of album that is meant to last.
I can't say enough good things about Home. It's overtaken From The Bottom as my favorite Off With Their Heads release and it's the kind of album that should make many more people sit up and pay attention to this band. I'm just glad I already have all their old 7"s; that quest is about to get messy for some people.
Off With Their Heads - Home:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcZMZxR9uxC_cMRcfMgqpOh7U8...
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Superchunk - I Hate History 7" - Pink Vinyl
This 7" is only available as part of the Matador single subscription. It's expensive, but honestly, once you put a Superchunk 7" in the mix, there's simply no way I'm not going to buy it. Really skewed my record buying budget earlier in the year, but so be it, I need to keep my Superchunk collection complete.
We have 1 new Superchunk song called "I Hate History." It's a punchy mid tempo song that is very much in line with the type of music the band has been cranking out lately. It would absolutely fit in just fine on their last album, and hopefully it's a sign of more great songs to come.
The B-side is a short cover of a SS Decontrol song called "Glue." I can't say that I'm a particularly big fan of older hardcore stuff, and after youtubing the original, I'm not surprised I hadn't heard it before. For me, this Superchunk cover is just kind of a throwaway, but I do dig the A-side quite a bit.
Monday, April 8, 2013
The Windowsill - S/T LP
This is a record that I had wanted to grab for a while, but never could find it domestically. I just couldn't bring myself to pay the overseas shipping and get murdered on the exchange rate. There are records I will go that for in a heartbeat, but I just wasn't willing to commit to The Windowsill. Well, one finally became available in the US, and I'm glad it did.
The Windowsill play some nice straightforward pop. It tends to run mid tempo, with a real emphasis on hooks and harmonies. It actually reminds me a lot of the Hospital Job LP from late last year, but I think it's missing a little bit of the driving rhythm section that made the Hospital Job LP such a stand out.
I thoroughly enjoy this album and would definitely recommend grabbing the LP. Though, I will still say, I'm not sure it's the kind of album worth importing. As I write this review, you can still get it from a US distro at moosterrecords.bigcartel.com/product/the-windowsill-s-t-1... and it's definitely worth grabbing for $10.
The Windowsill - S/T LP:
mermanrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-windowsill
Friday, April 5, 2013
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.
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
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Forgetters - S/T LP
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
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
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.
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
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
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.
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
Monday, April 1, 2013
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.