Survival Knife - Divine Mob 7" - Gold Vinyl (/100)

Survival Knife - Divine Mob 7" - Gold Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Kill Rock Stars (2013)

It's pretty interesting to see members of Unwound with a new project right as their back catalog is in the process of being reissued. It provides an extra excuse to listen to them side by side and really see how things have changed. This is the 2nd Survival Knife 7", the first having come out on Sub Pop a few months ago. The first 100 of these were on gold vinyl direct from Kill Rock Stars.

The 2 songs have to be judged separately in my opinion. the title track "Divine Mob" is just fantastic. Loud, fast-ish, with lots of 90's sounding guitar leads, Justin Trosper's distinct vocals and even a well placed pick slide for good measure. Everything I want to hear from this band.

The B-side, "Snakebit," doesn't strike me the same way. From it's plodding Neon Genesis Evangelion "Angles Attack" guitar riff (now that's a nerdy music comparison for you) to the fact that Justin's not even singing the song, it's the first rack I've heard form this band that I didn't immediately love. I feel like it could work being a one-off within the context of a full album, but as a 50/50 showcase with "Divine Mob," it just pales in comparison.

Still, the A-side is so good I would recommend picking this 7" up without hesitation.

Survival Knife - Divine Mob:
killrockstars.bandcamp.com/album/divine-mob

eBay - 10/28/13

I'm selling some records on eBay to fund buying some more records. Some of these I bought and didn't like, some were freebies thrown in when I ordered something else, some are records I have more than 1 copy of, some of them, honestly, I have no idea how they ended up in my collection. There's some legitimate good records in this list, and there's some crap too. But what I can say is none of the records on this list were sent to me to review, I have scruples people! But please check out the list and bid on some stuff. It'll help me buy more records to write about here. Everything starts at 99 cents. Thanks!

http://www.ebay.com/sch/sturdywrists/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=

Nude Beach - What Can You Do 7"

Nude Beach - What Can You Do 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Other Music (2013)

2 new songs by Nude Beach following up their 2012 full length. II was one of my favorite records from last year and this 7" is another example of why I like this band so much. Nude Beach follows in the footsteps of classic rock bands like Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, but manage to add in enough of their own contemporary indie/punk references to not sound sound like some cheesy cover band your dad would go see.

The A Side builds off of a choppy start/stop guitar riff and layers on noodling lead guitar with strong vocals way up front in the mix. The verse builds into an anthem of a chorus which segues into the obligatory zippy guitar solo during the instrumental break down. A standard song formula, but when it's pulled off flawlessly, there's nothing better. B Side, "I'm Giving Up" takes down the energy a bit but still retains the hooks that makes Nude Beach great.

This is a worthy 7" to pick up if you're looking to give the band a chance, but I still recommend their 2nd album II if you're ready to jump in with both feet.

Nude Beach - What Can You Do:
soundcloud.com/other-music-recording-co/nude-beach-what-c...

Broccoli / Pinto - Split 7" - 3 Cover Variations

Broccoli / Pinto - Split 7" - 3 Cover Variations, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Speedowax (2013)

Rich from Speedowax Records is absolutely going to drive me to the nut house one of these days. Don't get me wrong, he's a great guy that I've known forever and his label puts out some stellar releases, but all of these variants...geez! At this point, I'm half convinced he keeps making Broccoli variants just to see if I keep buying every version. Well, he's right, I will keep buying every version because Broccoli is one of my absolute, all time favorite bands.

This split originally came out a while ago, and for those of you keeping track these are the 5th, 6th & 7th versions of the record now in my collection. The 2 Broccoli songs are every bit as good now as the first day I heard them, in their Leatherface-but-smoother style. Always thought Pinto was OK too, but they're unfortunately way overshadowed by Broccoli. I really encourage everyone to buy as many Broccoli albums as they can. Their 2nd full length called Home is one of my top 5 albums of all time.

Broccoli - The Tens:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeGBPO1dY3c

Pretty Girls Make Graves - Speakers Push The Air 7"

Pretty Girls Make Graves - Speakers Push The Air 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Dim Mak (2002)

Another cheapo used bin find in Chicago. This is me actually re-buying a 7" that I used to have. Pretty Girls Make Graves put out 3 albums, a 12" and a few 7"s. In all that clatter they have exactly 2 songs that I like, 1 of which I think is borderline great; "Speakers Push The Air." So for me, it was worth picking up this 7" again to have that 1 song.

The reason I sold my original copy of this record was because I had it as part of a pretty limited 3x7" set that came in a nice screened box set. It really was cool looking, but it was also limited to 140 copies, so back when I was still scraping together a living in the music industry I ended up selling it for $150. It was just way too much money to turn down to keep 2 songs I liked (coincidentally the 2nd song is also on this 7"; "If You Hate Your Friends, You're Not Alone").

While $150 was too much to turn down to part with it; $3 is a perfectly acceptable amount to pay to put the song back in my collection.

Pretty Girls Make Graves - Speakers Push The Air:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yeelwuKnCs

Rail - Rolling Little Joe 7"

Rail - Rolling Little Joe 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Front Porch (1994)

I found this record digging through used bins in Chicago and decided to take a chance on it. I bought it in the hopes that it was the same Rail that did a split 7" with the band Wisher on Snuffy Smiles records many moons ago. Unfortunately, this seems to be a different band, but fortunately it's still a pretty good little 7".

Rolling Little Joe came out in 1994 and as soon as these 3 songs start playing, it just reeks of the 90's. I mean that in the best possible way, the 90's were a pretty spectacular time to be a punk leaning band with pop hooks and Rail falls right into that category. The songs tend to be mid tempo with big guitars and really strong vocals. While I couldn't find any from this record online to stream, I did find out a bit more about this band. Looks like they have at least 2 more 7"s and I'll probably grab them if I ever see them floating around.

Mrs Magician - B Sides LP - Murky Clear Vinyl

Mrs Magician - B Sides LP - Murky Clear Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Thrill Me (2013)

I''ve made it no secret that Strange Heaven by Mrs. Magician was my absolute favorite record of last year and I've gone so far as to say it's probably the best record I've heard in the past 5 years or so. I have played it so many times, and each time, I love it just a bit more. While the band is working on their new full length, they decided to clear house of some old tunes and put out this B Sides LP.

The name is a bit misleading, I think, but not in a bad way. There's really only 2 songs on this record that were ever released before. "Fool's Paradise" from a picture disc 7" and "Dispicable Things" from their tour split with The Night Marchers. Everything else on this record is previously unreleased (well, I suppose some may be on compilations that I don't have or know about).

From what I gather several songs from here were songs that were originally intended for Mrs. Magician's debut full length Pity Party Animal. That record was eventually scrapped and Strange Heaven came out in its place, but the songs on B Sides show a glimpse of what may have been.

In general, the songs on this LP are not quite as polished as what's on Strange Heaven; you can tell the Swami sheen isn't as bright and noticeable. But this band writes some simply amazing songs. "Tabloids" is a mid paced ode to a falling socialite. "Get Bent" ups the speed and has one of the band's trademark bouncy choruses and "I Hate Tour" spins the tale of a bummer of a trip to El Paso. You are not going to find better lyrics than you will on a Mrs. Magician record. It's just that perfect balance of self deprecating wit and wisdom.

Once again, Mrs. Magician have put out an essential album. It's not as quite good as Strange Heaven, so few things out there could be, but it's a fantastic record in its own right and absolutely one worth grabbing.

Mrs Magician - B Sides LP:
mrsmagician.bandcamp.com/album/b-sides

Obits - Bed & Bugs - Orange Vinyl

Obits - Bed & Bugs - Orange Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sub Pop (2013)

From the first moments of lead track "Taste The Difff," I can tell that I'm going to be pleased with this newest Obits record. While I really enjoyed their first record, their 2nd, Moody Standard & Poor, didn't hold up as well for me. Though that album certainly had its moments, I couldn't help feeling that something was missing. I think what it was is the sort of energy that the band manages to channel on Bed & Bugs.

The guitars are a bit louder, the drumming is more aggressive and Rick Froberg's vocals have once again become the driving force for the majority of the songs. Rick's back to a little good old fashion yelling on several songs and you can really hear the passion in his voice. Sure, I'm not as into the track "Besetchet," a cover from the Ethiopiques series, and yes, "Machines" grinds the album to a screeching halt, but the vast majority of this record is a fast paced, reverb soaked delight.

I've been following this band since one of their early shows was bootlegged and shared over at the Swami message board. I was on board for I Blame You. I enjoyed Moody Standard & Poor, though I didn't love it. Bed & Bugs is easily the band's best record and most consistent collection of songs to date. It's definitely worth checking out, even if you've been lukewarm on any of their previous work.

Obits - Bed & Bugs:
soundcloud.com/subpop/sets/obits-bed-bugs

Submarine Races - Talking Loud 7"

Submarine Races - Talking Loud 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Shit Sandwich (2006)

This was another 7" recommended to me by @swamipat during our trip record shopping in Chicago. I trust his taste and the artwork looked good, so I snapped it up. Plus it as only $2 used, so not much of a risk really. The minimal risk paid off big though.

This is a really fun little 7". Submarine Races craft shimmering summertime songs that are tinged slightly in reverb. The tracks on here are driven by bouncy guitar riffs and catchy leads. The borderline 60's surfy vocals are the perfect pairing with the music. It's just a glorious record to put on as summer is fading away so you can try to hold on to the season just a bit more.

Submarine Races has a couple of LPs out in addition to Talking Loud and if they are as good as this 7", I need to put them on my shopping list. Anyone have a recommendation on which full length to start with?

Cant find any of these songs streaming anywhere, sorry.

Dead Mechanical - OK Night LP - Blue Vinyl (/100)

Dead Mechanical - OK Night LP - Blue Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Toxic Pop (2013)

I reviewed the Insub Fest Test Pressing Early Bird Fun Time version of this record back in July (www.ibuywaytoomanyrecords.com/2013/07/dead-mechanical-ok-...), but now that I have received the full art, limited to 100 blue vinyl version, well, I have to say a few words about it as well. Before I go any further, somehow Toxic Pop still has a handful of the blue vinyl version for sale on their website. I cannot fathom how, but they do. You really, really should go buy it right away: www.firestarterrecords.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath...

Now, about this record. Though I did gush quite a bit about OK Night in my initial review, the past few months have only strengthened how I feel about Dead Mechanical. I will say it again, as far as punk rock bands go, they are probably just about the best there is out there right now. They play a raspy vocal, urgent punk rock with nods to Jawbreaker & Leatherface, but they don't (and I cannot stress this enough) sound like another carbon copy No Idea band (not that there's anything wrong with those No Idea bands).

Dead Mechanical have elevated the form and weave powerful lyrics into their dynamic guitar driven rock. Anyone who knows me knows that John Reis & Rocket From the Crypt related bands have pretty much been my favorite thing for the last 20 years or so. This Dead Mechanical record is so good, it's really looking like it could push the Night Marchers out of my #1 record of the year spot. Now that is high praise from me.

Dead Mechanical - OK Night LP:
firestartertoxicpop.bandcamp.com/album/ok-night

The Steve Adamyk Band / Dauntless Elite - Split 7" - Green Vinyl(/100) & Brown Vinyl (/200)

The Steve Adamyk Band / Dauntless Elite - Split 7" - Green Vinyl (/100) & Brown Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

All In Vinyl (2013)

For me this was the main event of the 2013 All In Vinyl single series, new songs by The Steve Adamyk Band. But, let's start off with Dauntless Elite. A band that has been kicking around for a good many years at this point, I first came across them through a Snuffy Smiles split 7" a while ago, but never really followed up on them. Their songs on this 7" are quite good really. Catchy, with unique guitar play. This is a band i really need to hear more of.

As far as the Steve Adamyk Band side goes, it's just 2 more hit songs from one of the best bands currently playing. Idles Hands-esque punchy guitar riffs into big choruses. Another great showing, though I do have one comment to make. I'm not sure if it is a result of the recording or of the actual pressing of the record, but these too songs seem to really lean on the treble side of the spectrum. You can't really hear the bass at all and everything sounds a bit tinny. Nothing that will spoil the great tunes, but it's the first time I've ever had anything remotely critical to say about this band.

The Steve Adamyk Band / Dauntless Elite - Split 7"
allinvinyl.bandcamp.com/album/split-7-10

Chestnut Road / New Alaska - Split 7" - Red Vinyl (/50)

Chestnut Road / New Alaska - Split 7" - Red Vinyl (/50), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Speedowax / Brassneck (2013)

As soon as I saw that I could buy more Chestnut Road songs, I was ordering this 7" as fast as I humanly could. 2 new songs by a band responsible for one of the absolute best records of the year. These 2 are just as incredible as anything on their full length, with strong influence by some of my very favorite bands. I've said before, if you ever even remotely liked bands like Broccoli, Hooton 3 Car or Leatherface; Chestnut Road is a must listen.

Honestly, this could have been a split with anyone and I would have bought it, so I went in to New Alaska without any expectations. Their songs are loud and kind of dissonant. The singer is certainly shouting a lot, but never screaming or making things unpleasant to my gentle ears. I don't know that they are a band I would listen too all that often, but honestly, they're much better than I expected them to be, especially since their songs were really just extra stuff on a Chestnut Road 7" in my mind.

My copy is numbered out of 50, bought direct from Speedowax. I'm not really sure what the variant breakdown is to be honest, but no matter which version you end up with, this (and the Chestnut road full length from earlier in the year) is a record worth grabbing.

Chestnut Road / New Alaska - Split 7":
brassneckrecords.bandcamp.com/album/chestnut-road-new-ala...

The Capitalist Kids / Tight Bros - Split 7" - Yellow Vinyl (/100)

The Capitalist Kids / Tight Bros - Split 7" - Yellow Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Toxic Pop (2013)

First off, I want to thank everyone that got in touch with me to say something nice after I burned my hand last week. It's very appreciated. I'm healing up nicely, though I can't say that typing is my favorite thing to do at the moment as my right index finger is still giving me some issues. As such, I'll be keeping this review kind of short.

And honestly, there's really not much to say about this 7" other than if you don't buy it, you're a fool. The Capitalist Kids are just about the best straight up, MTX style pop punk band going these days and their songs on this record are another dose of their fantastic songwriting. Some of the best lyrics going along side of some of the best choruses you'll hear.

The Tight Bros side is equally great, though they lean more towards a buzzsaw Marked Men style of rock. The harmonies that this band manages to squeeze into songs this fast is a real talent, and if you don't already have their S/T album that came out earlier this year, then you are missing out on one of the best. I've yet to hear anything from this band that I don't love.

The Capitalist Kids / Tight Bros - Split 7":
firestartertoxicpop.bandcamp.com/album/ck-tb-split

A Delay

I went ahead and got a 2nd degree burn on my entire right hand last night. Will be wrapped up like this for a week. Not really going to be able to type any reviews until the mummy hand is gone. Sorry.

The Blind Shake - Garbage On Glue 7"

The Blind Shake - Garbage On Glue 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sweet Rot (2013)

I am notoriously stubborn about people recommending bands to me. That might be surprising considering the sheer amount of music I buy. How do I hear this stuff if people aren't telling me to check it out? Well, I'm much more likely to go listen to a record if I read somewhere that it's good than if someone specifically tells me they think I'd like it. My gut instinct is to always tell them that I think they're probably wrong. I can't explain it, I think I'm just stubborn and a jerk when it comes to music.

I will say that there's a handful of people I know on this internet affectionately dubbed as Team Swami. There are folks in this group whose taste I do trust and when @swamipat took me record shopping in Chicago, we exchanged a few recommendations. One of the records he suggested I pick up was this Blind Shake 7". I liked the cover art, so I went for it. I'm glad I did as I really dig it.

The Blind Shake are a heavy, driving guitar band. They rely on repetitive riffs and echo laden vocal shouts to fuel these songs. That might not sound like a compliment, but trust me, it is. The Blind Shake channel this ever growing momentum into their songs. It constantly feels like the band is building to a big catchy chorus that they intentionally won't let you have and it gives the songs a really unique energy. It kind of makes me feel like I do when I'm watching the closing moments of an auction on eBay. All that building anticipation.

I probably wouldn't recommend too many other bands try this tactic, but the Blind Shake pull it off masterfully. The moment this 7" was through spinning I was already buying the band's recent full length on Castle Face. Thanks Pat!

The Blind Shake - Garbage On Glue 7":
sweetrotrecords.bandcamp.com/album/garbage-on-glue-go-go-...

Tenement / Screaming Females - Split 7" - Orange Vinyl (/100)

Tenement / Screaming Females - Split 7" - Orange Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Recess Records (2013)

Tenement has been on a real 7" kick of late. Lots of new records from them, which is always a good thing if you ask me. The song on their side of this split, "Wouldn't Let You Go," is a real gem and one of the best from this last batch of 7"s they've released. The verse builds on top of a bass heavy, borderline sludgy guitar the launches into a gigantic hooky chorus. Aside from the odd droning noise that goes on for too long at the end of the song, this is Tenement at their best.

Screaming Females are a band that I just don't understand. People love them. I mean seriously, I know people that just LOVE this band, but they don't do anything for me. I'm often puzzled by things like this and I wonder what I'm missing that so many others get. To me, the song on this split is just a slow tempo track, with kind of drone-y guitar. The female fronted vocals are warbley and kind of remind me of a cross between Sleater-Kinney and something you'd hear playing in a haunted house.

I'm having a bad run of being able to find songs streaming online this week and it continues with this record. I'm kind of surprised given the bands and label involved, but I can't find anywhere to link to these songs. Sorry!

Walker - Ifyourepunkrockimsingle 7" - Green Vinyl (/106)

Walker - Ifyourepunkrockimsingle 7" - Green Vinyl (/106), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Harmless (1999)

While I was at Reckless Records in Chicago, I was doing what I always do at record stores; dig through the used 7"s. I stumbled across this Walker 7". I've had this record forever, but the cover of mine was done in blue ink. So I inspected a bit closer and found that this also was on green vinyl. Now I wasn't sure of the details of this version, but I knew it wasn't the one I already had so to the checkout counter I went.

Doing some more research online, if discogs.com is to be believed, this was a limited 2nd pressing of the single that was released in 1999. It seems that they only made 106 copies available on green vinyl and it also came with a pin (which mine also has). That's pretty limited, so I'm more than pleased with my $5 purchase.

As far as the music on this 7", I just loved Walker back in the 90's. I never really thought they got the respect or notoriety they deserved. In particular their only full length, Actually Being Lonely Isn't All That Bad, is just a beast of a record. Very much a band of the 90's, Walker plays the best kind of pop punk. I liken them to other greats of the era like Zoinks!, but they do have a more Midwestern feel to them. 3 songs here, 2 originals, 1 cover, all gold (err, green).

Unsurprisingly, I couldn't find any of the songs online anywhere, but if you see any version of this record, it's well worth adding to your collection.

V/A - Red Scare Across America Tour 7"

V/A - Red Scare Across America Tour 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Red Scare (2013)

I was a little nervous when this 7" was announced. It was said to be a tour only record and has an exclusive Masked Intruder song on it. I knew I wouldn't be able to get to one of the shows and I was fearful considering how much other Masked Intruder records have been selling for on eBay and what not. Luckily, some went on sale through Interpunk, so I was able to grab a copy there. Perhaps Interpunk sold more than I guessed as this is the one Masked Intruder record that I have't really seen anyone going crazy for yet.

The song that Masked Intruder contributes is more of their typically great pop punk. They (along with The Capitalist Kids) are just about the best straight up pop punk band going these days. Hooks and choruses like you wouldn't believe, definitely the highlight of the 7". Elway is a bit more generic, they play towards the gruffer end of the pop punk spectrum, but nothing really stands out about this song. Lastly Sam Russo contributes a pretty boring acoustic song. Probably trying to sound like early Against Me, but doesn't really pull it off.

The art is nothing special. Just a stamped paper sleeve, but the Masked intruder song is so good, it is absolutely worth the price of admission on its own. Unfortunately, I'm not able to find these songs streaming anywhere.

Sick Sick Birds - All the Fins In The Sea 7" - Insub fest Version (/40)

Sick Sick Birds - All the Fins In The Sea 7" - Insub fest Version (/40), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Ghostbot Records (2013)

The folks at Sick Sick Birds were kind enough to allow me to purchase a copy of this 7", even though I was not able to get down to Insub Fest in Baltimore. Between this and the exclusive Dead Mechanical variant that was being sold at the fest, I could have ended up a very bummed record collector if not for the kindness of some friends.

The Sick Sick Birds 7" is actually the test pressing of the upcoming 7" on Ghostbot Records. I expected the official 7" to be out at this point, but I haven't seen any info out of the record label in a little bit. The sleeve is a one sided square, all stenciled out and it looks really sharp. The tracklist and some other information is stamped on the other side of the cover.

Now musically, I couldn't be happier with this record. I was a little hard on the last Sick Sick Birds full length. Not because the songs weren't great (they were), but because the way the vocals were recorded just didn't work for me. They were blown out and distorted. Well, the 4 songs on this 7" sound fantastic, much more reminiscent of the recording quality of the 1st SSB record, Heavy Manners. The songs themselves are all great. Well written, catchy pop with heavy leanings towards 90's indie rock. This 7" is really stellar and I cannot wait to hear what the band does next.

Sick Sick Birds - Burns In The Middle:
sicksickbirds.bandcamp.com/track/burns-in-the-middle-2

Record Store Visit: Logan Hardware - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13

Record Store Visit: Logan Hardware - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

The very last stop for the day on my record shopping tour of Chicago was at a place called Logan Hardware. While I won't say this was the best record store I went to while I was in Chicago, it was absolutely the coolest one I was at.

Logan Hardware is a big store. The room just feels like it goes on for days and they have a great mix of stock. New & used underground rock 7"s, piles and pile of oldies 45s, CDs, LPs, DVDs, VHS tapes, blind box action figures, wacky candy and more. Musically, I wouldn't say they focus on any one specific genre, but it's very much an independent record store so the selection is as it should be.

I really enjoyed the dynamic vibe of the store as there was just so much to look at, but the crowning achievement of Logan Hardware is the secret vintage arcade museum hidden at the back of the store. Maybe it's not really a secret as they do talk about it on the store's website, but being in the actual store itself, I would have had no idea it was there had we not been there with a local.

After you purchase something at the store, you get back a receipt with a secret code on it. You then punch that code into a locked door at the back of the store and enter into a hidden arcade full of vintage video games. Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac Man, Moon Patrol, TMNT, about 8 pinball machines and many more favorites. Simply amazing. Musically, I'd probably be happiest if there was a Reckless Records in New Jersey, but as far as just a flat out cool, fun store; I sure wish there was a Logan Hardware around here somewhere.

That wrapped up my record shopping in Chicago. I had a great time going around and wanted to once again thank the great @swamipat for showing my wife and I the shops to hit and for taking us out for one hell of a good burger.

Record Store Visit: Laurie's Planet Of Sound - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13

Record Store Visit: Laurie's Planet Of Sound - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Stop #4 of the record store tour of Chicago was Laurie's Planet Of Sound. Incidently, this store was right across the street from a vintage toy store called Quake. Quake looked like it was probably pretty cool, but they were closed (despite the fact that it wasn't closing time according to the sign on their door), so I didn't get to stop in. Laurie's, on the other hand, was open and I got to peruse their stash of records.

I have to say that overall I was very impressed with Chicago's record stores by this point. There's a level of consistency in these shops and each of them has something worth while. Laurie's selection of new records was solid, if unspectacular, but they had a better than usual used selection.

Additionally they were the one store in Chicao I went to that had the coveted "rare records" 7" box behind the counter. I nabbed a pretty old out of print Hex Dispensers 7"s from here, so that makes this visit a success as far as I'm concerned. Also, one of the clerks was originally from a nearby town in New Jersey, so I got a taste of that "it's a small world" thing as well.

Record Store Visit: Reckless Records - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13

Record Store Visit: Reckless Records - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

I don't know if Reckless Records is the best record store I went to in Chicago, but it is certainly the most broadly stocked store that I was at during my visit. While most of the other stores I went to seemed to to be a bit more focused in their approach, Reckless feels like a great one stop shop for all things underground. In fact, it reminded me a great deal of the glory days of Kim's Underground in New York City.

I guess Reckless leans more indie rock than anything, but this is a pretty big store with a good cross section of different genres. Their used section was great, with tons of old 7"s from the 90's hanging around. Any store that I can go in and pick up a Walker 7" on colored vinyl is a store that's going to get a pretty positive review from me. As New York City record stores die or move to Brooklyn, it's crazy to see the epitome of 1990s NYC record shopping living on in a store in Chicago. I'm jealous I don't have a Reckless Records here in New Jersey.

Record Store Visit: Dusty Groove - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13

Record Store Visit: Dusty Groove - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

The 2nd record store hit up on my Chicago adventure was also the one store I didn't actually buy anything at. Dusty Groove specializes in Jazz, Soul and Funk, though they also had a pretty solid Hip Hop section as well. I wasn't really in the market for anything that Dusty Grooves was selling during this trip as I had decided I didn't want to bring any LPs on the plane ride home with me, but it was certainly a fun store to browse.

I can definitely see a specific type of record collector flipping their wig for the kind of stuff this store carries, though I can't say they had much in the way of used 7"s, which was pretty much my main goal on this trip. It's a neat store though, and one that I'd like to dig through again some other time.

Record Store Visit: Permanent Records - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13

Record Store Visit: Permanent Records - Chicago, IL - 09/16/13, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

I'm back from my Chicago vacation. Let me start off by saying that I was very lucky to see Rocket From The Crypt twice in Chicago. Once at a club show that took place at a venue called the Double Door and once standing in the pouring rain at Riot Fest. Both shows were outstanding. I had a great time in Chicago, it's really a cool city. I'm hopeful to have an excuse to go back again really soon.

While in the windy city @swamipat was kind enough to take me record shopping. I'll be spending this week going over the various record stores that we hit up. All brand new stores for me that I'd never been in before. While I tried to limit my actual purchases to 7"s due to having to travel home with the records, I did check out pretty much everything and I can say that if I lived in Chicago, I would have no problem getting by with the stores they have.

The first stop was a place called Permanent Records. I would call it one of the more specialized stores that we visited. While they had a little bit of everything, you could tell that they specialized in the sort of garage/pop/psych revival rock that's been brewing over the past few years. They had a pretty good selection of new LPs and 7"s plus an easily accessible public rest room, which I thought was a nice feature.

They also had a really strong and affordable used section. I spend a great deal of time digging though their 7"s and found quite a few gems. I was mostly on the hunt for old forgotten 90's stuff and found a few records worth taking home. But the record I was most excited to find was the colored vinyl version of The Paperhead 7" Pictures of Her Demise. This was the only Trouble In Mind 7" on colored vinyl that I didn't have, so it was great to be able to add that to the collection.

All in all a great store. I wish I had the opportunity to shop there on a regular basis.

Vacation is approaching...

So this week I'm heading out to Chicago in order to see Rocket From The Crypt play twice, see some Blues Brothers landmarks and go record shopping in some new stores.  My wife & I have a decent amount of errands to prepare for this, so I'm just going to take the first few days of this off from this website as well. 

There won't be any record reviews for the next 2 weeks, but I will be back posting on Monday September 23rd.  Additionally, if you care, you can follow me on Twitter if the thought of 2 weeks without reading something I write is particularly terrifying for some reason.  @TimPopKid.

I'm quite excited about this trip.  I've never been to Chicago before and I'm going to get to hang out with some people that I've met through the RFTC/Swami message boards over the years.  Should be neat.  Plus I couldn't be happier about seeing Rocket From The Crypt for the 26th and 27th time.  Long live the dead!

Abolitionist - The Growing Disconnect LP

Abolitionist - The Growing Disconnect LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Hahaha cool! / Different Kitchen / 1859 / Lost Cat / Sex Sheets / Tour Van (2013)

This is the first time anyone has sent me an actual full length album to review for this website. I've had a few 7"s come in and even a 12" single once, but it was pretty cool to get this in the mailbox. I had never heard of Abolitionist prior to the band getting in touch with me. These things can go either way. I've gotten a few cool records sent to me and I've gotten some that aren't so hot. The Growing Disconnect turned out to be a pretty nice surprise.

The band is working within the catchy punk rock arena that was really established by bands like Jawbreaker back in the 90's. Gruff vocals, dark lyrics but with razor sharp hooks and an obvious passion for what they do. The Growing Disconnect paints a pretty bleak landscape lyrically, but does it with Dillinger Four like precision and energy that makes the album just fly by. The songs that stand out to me tend to be the ones that lean to the catchier side of things like "Thank Them" and "Blight Blood Red Letters." I just can't imagine someone who likes the sort of fare No Idea typically releases not being into this record.

There are a couple tracks that have a bit more of a straight up Bad Religion inspired sound to them and even though that's not really my thing, the songs whip by at such a fast pace they actually add some variety to the dynamic of the album which can be helpful. Even though this website is really just here for me to document my record buying addiction, it's a pretty cool thing that like minded souls will take the time to send you something of theirs to listen to. The fact that this is a really good record is just a bonus.

Abolitionist - The Growing Disconnect LP
abolitionist.bandcamp.com/album/the-growing-disconnect-lp-cd

Royal Headache - Stand And Stare 7"

Royal Headache - Stand And Stare 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Matador (2013)

This 7" is part of the Matador 2013 singles club and has absolutely been the highlight of the series so far. Royal Headache's full length from a couple of years ago was one of those records that just immediately clicked for me and it instantly went in heavy rotation. This 7" proves that album was no fluke. Both songs here are just as good as anything on the full length and they've left me chomping at the bit for a new LP.

The first, "Stand And Stare," is a slower paced song, but still has the bright treble heavy guitar and soulful vocals I've come to know and love from this band. But on the b side, "Give It All To Me," Royal Headache kick up the tempo and blaze through an under 2 minute long blast of a song. I can't think of any band that's currently putting out any records as unique and distinctive as Royal Headache is. This 7" is worth subscribing to the entire series for (plus you'll get a Superchunk 7" too, so that's pretty great) and with any luck it's the first of many new releases on the way from this great, great band.

Royal Headache - Stand And Stare 7":
royalheadache.bandcamp.com/album/stand-and-stare-give-it-...

Superchunk - I Hate Music LP - Orange Vinyl w/ Bonus 7"

Superchunk - I Hate Music LP - Orange Vinyl w/ Bonus 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Merge (2013)

Let me start off by saying this is a great record. One of the most fun records you are likely to listen to this year. Superchunk is one of my all time favorite bands, heck I have more Superchunk 7"s than a lot of people have total 7"s. That being said, I am going to nit pick 3 small things in this review, but I do not want those things interpreted as me not liking this album because that simply would not be true. Having listened to this band for nearly 20 years now, I just wanted to mention a few things.

Number one, though this record is great, I feel like it's not quite as punchy as Majesty Shredding and in turn doesn't come across as energetic and exciting as the last Superchunk record. While the album has exceptional moments, as a whole it's a lower key affair. Number 2, even though musically Me and You and Jackie Mittoo is one of the highlights of the record, I just can't reconcile the fact that I think the lyrics of the chorus are kind of stupid. It sounds like an idea Ted Leo thought of, but then decided not to use it.

Lastly, number 3. And this ties in to the limited vinyl version that I picked up. I think this package is incredible. The art work is spectacular, I love all of the die cut packaging and the colored vinyl and the fact that it comes with a bonus 7". This brings us to number 3, the songs on the bonus 7" are a waste. Just noise for the most part, I'd be hard pressed to call them actual songs. I'll likely not listen to it again, but I need it for completist reasons.

So those are my gripes with I Hate Music. 3 small things, 1 of which really has no bearing at all on how much I enjoy the record. I cannot stress enough that I really do think this is a great record. It's just when I am so familiar with a band I tend to over analyze a bit. My neurosis certainly shouldn't stop anyone from picking this up right away.

Superchunk - I Hate Music (NPR Stream):
www.npr.org/2013/08/11/.../first-listen-superchunk-i-hate...

Southport - Southern Soul LP

Southport - Southern Soul LP, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Yo Yo (2013)

Simon Wells is the main man responsible for Southport and if his name sounds familiar to you it is likely because this man is responsible for helping to create some of the greatest records of all time during his days playing guitar for the band Snuff. The Snuff records that came out when Simon was in the band are true classics.

Southport has been kicking around off and on for well over a decade at this point. I was actually lucky enough to see one of their early shows when they played with Wat Tyler, Leatherface and Snuff at the Andy Crichton memorial show that I flew to London to see back in the 90's. I ended up with one of their demo tapes that pretty much became their debut album Nothing Is Easy. They vanished for a while, but came back with Armchair Supporters a few years ago. It was pretty good, though maybe not as strong as the first.

Now Southport are back for the third and, from the sound of things, final time with Southern Soul. It's an album that is very easy to listen to, with catchy songs played at a mid tempo pace. There aren't any punked-out burners here, nor are there really any very slow ballad-esque songs to speak of, but what the band has churned out is a very strong swan song.

Southern Soul is a very appropriate name for the record, and it's reflected in the vocals more so than anywhere else. Every song has a laid back vibe and I will admit to wishing there was a bit more urgency like they display on tracks from the band's first album like "Pilot" or "Drive By." But aside from the bizarre "Bob Marlow," which is essentially just a cover of "I Shot The Sheriff," this is an album with a lot of replay value. More than anything, it sounds like music made by old punks for old punks, and that's something I can relate to.

Southport - Last Time:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIxFzyexDtc

Ken South Rock / Giant Battle Monster - Split 7" - Coke Bottle ClearVinyl (/200)

Ken South Rock / Giant Battle Monster - Split 7" - Coke Bottle Clear Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Artificial Head (2013)

I must admit, it's been pretty neat to see some record labels and bands have been mailing me copies of records to listen to and review lately. It's certainly not like mail mailbox is swamped, but I think 4 people have sent me a record this summer. Say what you will, but the chance to try out some new tunes is always a fun time for me. Even if the record is terrible.

Speaking of terrible, there's this split 7". While I appreciate the fact that the record was sent to me to review, these bands are both pretty bad. Certainly not my thing. The first band, Ken South Rock, are playing a loud, borderline grungy rock. Their singer is shouting and wailing like a cross between a raspy Jello Biafra and some bad hair metal guy that I likely don't know the name of. Ken South Rock is OK during their quieter moments, but as soon as the singer really starts going for it, I just can take no more.

Ken South Rock is a walk in the park compared to Giant Battle Monster. They come from that scene of experimental noise rock that, to me, sounds like someone took all of a band's instruments, hit record on a tape deck and then threw all of the instruments down a flight of stairs. There's no structure and my brain cannot process stuff like this.

On the upside, the packaging on this record is great. It's got an elaborate fold over cover with a tuck-in flap on the back and I find the black and white artwork very eye catching. But once you take the record out of the packaging, bad things are coming your way.

Ken South Rock / Giant Battle Monster - Split 7"
artinstitute.bandcamp.com/album/ken-south-rock-vs-giant-b...

Heavy Times - Fix It Alone LP - Gold Vinyl (/200)

Heavy Times - Fix It Alone LP - Gold Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

HoZac (2013)

I think I made mention of it last time I reviewed a Heavy Times record, but I could only ever listen to 1 band like Heavy Times. The way they combine their lead guitar heavy songs with howling in a cave vocals is a recipe that so many other bands could really screw up. Heavy Times, on the other hand, is fully capable of holding my attention with short burst songs running over with energy.

Strewn throughout this mayhem are a couple instances where the band slows things down a little bit and for me it's in these brief moments where Fix It Alone absolutely shines. Songs like "Might Not," "American Love" and "Trouble Walker" bring things down to upper-mid tempo and these are the songs where the hooks stand out and you can really appreciate the songwriting that goes into this record.

Fix It Alone is every bit as strong as the band's last album Jacker. Jacker may have the slight edge as an entire record, but the highs on Fix It Alone are higher.

Heavy Times - In My Sleep (this is one of the fast loud ones):
soundcloud.com/hozac-records/heavy-times-in-my-sleep

The Dirtbombs - Ooey Gooey Chewy Ka-blooey - Pink Vinyl (/200)

The Dirtbombs - Ooey Gooey Chewy Ka-blooey - Pink Vinyl (/200), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

In The Red (2013)

I can't say that I've ever been all that into The Dirtbombs. Admittededly, I've only heard a few songs here and there and whenever I read about them, it seems like their doing some weirdo concept album. Well, Ooey Gooey Chewy Ka-blooey is one of their weirdo concept albums, and if every Dirtbombs record sounded like this, I'd probably own all of the other Dirtbombs records.

This is The Dirtbombs take on late 60's / early 70's bubblegum pop rock. You know, songs like "Yummy Yummy Yummy" and "Sugar Sugar?" The Dirtbombs serve up an entire album of tracks inspired by that genre. The result is just pure summertime bliss. Every song is upbeat and catchy. The hooks are simple in execution but are extremely well written. The band is not mocking this genre at all, they're lovingly embracing its sound and building on top of it.

There are so many standouts on this record, right from the opening track "Sugar On Top," with it's cowbell heavy drum beat and alternating vocal/guitar verse. There's the driving guitar riffs and sweet vocals of "Jump And Shout" and the pop perfection of "Sunshine Girl," the song with hands down the best chorus on this album. You'll here bits of inspiration peppered through. A piece of "Mony Mony" here, a taste of "Good Vibrations" there, but The Dirtbombs always tweak the formula just a bit to keep it their own.

If you can't tell, I really love this album. I hope that the band doesn't release this record into the world as a one off. They're way too good at this style of music to never go back to it. Plus, I really need to go back and check out some of the band's other albums. Any recommendations?

The Dirtbombs - Sugar On Top:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBqDDRDMz1s

The Dirtbombs - Crazy For You:
soundcloud.com/enablerpr/crazy-for-you

Soul Control - Get Out Now 7" (Freebie)

Soul Control - Get Out Now 7" (Freebie), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Bridge Nine (2011)

As you can hopefully read from the little sheet of paper I've included in the picture, this 7" was sent to me along with the latest Iron Chic 7" I ordered from Bridge Nine. That 7" was delayed for a bit, so they sent along a freebie as a make good. That's really nice of them, as I'm no stranger to pre-orders that go on for far longer than originally anticipated. Sadly, I just don't like this 7"

First off, it doesn't actually say Soul Control anywhere on this record. The only reason I was able to figure it out was by looking for the artwork on the Bridge Nine Bandcamp page. Why wouldn't you put your band name anywhere on your record? I don't understand that. Well the music is too hardcore for me. Bass heavy, muddy guitar. Guy shouting at me. I certainly won't claim to really understand much about the nuances of hardcore, but it sounds like most other bands like this sound to me: Loud and angry.

It was a nice effort on the part of Bridge Nine to send over an extra treat, if just doesn't belong in my collection.

Soul Control - Get Out Now:
bridge9.bandcamp.com/album/get-out-now

Legendary Wings / Buck Biloxi - Split 7"

Legendary Wings / Buck Biloxi - Split 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Pelican Wow Wow (2013)

Picked up this split 7" for Legendary Wings as I just loved their last full length on Dirtnap. This 7" contains two more songs of cranked up to 10, dynamic punky garage-pop. The songs are both pretty short, but while they're economical on time, there's no shortage of hooks. My only complaint about this band has been their need to stick little sound bites around all of their songs. It was all over their full length, and they've put more on this 7". The songs are great, they don't need any embellishment.

Buck Biloxi and the Fucks are new to me. When I put on this side of the 7", I immediately thought of bands like Hunx & His Punx and Nobunny. Lower fi, simplistic garage. Like those other bands, it doesn't really do anything for me, but if that's your cup of tea I would imagine you'd enjoy.

Legendary Wings - Best Friend:
soundcloud.com/sarah-no-mas/b1-best-friend

Buck Biloxi and the Fucks - I'm A Genius:
soundcloud.com/sarah-no-mas/a1-buck-biloxi-and-the-fucks

The Ceiling Stares / The Super Vacations Split 7" - Green Vinyl

The Ceiling Stares / The Super vacations Split 7" - Green Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Sweaters & Pearls / Velocity Of Sound (2011)

This is another 7" sent over to me by the nice folks at Sweaters & Pearls records for me to write a bit about. I take it very seriously when someone actually sends over a record to get my opinion on and I find myself spending much more time analyzing the record as I write than I do on records I buy for myself (which constitute 99% of what I write about on this website).

So, here we have 2 bands and 1 record on green vinyl. Of the 2 I prefer The Super Vacations. They play a laid back surf tinged rock formula that reminds me of Mrs. Magician in places. While I don't think they have vocal chops quite as grand as Mrs. Magician, they are very successful in laying down a relaxing day at the beach vibe with their back and forth, reverb guitar and slightly monotone vocals.

Next up is The Ceiling Stares, who fall victim to not-knowing-when-to-give-up-on-the-intro syndrome. We go well past a minute before the meat of the song really kicks in. Once it does, you're greeted with almost churchy, chanting vocal harmonies over slightly psychadelic guitars. I can't say I'm a big fan of this band to be honest, but I will be hanging on to the 7" for the Super Vacations songs. I may even look into the recent full length that the band released last year.

Super Vacations - Controller:
soundcloud.com/velocity-of-sound/controller-the-super-vac...

The Ceiling Stares - A Tunnel Through The Air:
soundcloud.com/velocity-of-sound/a-tunnel-through-the-air...

Steve Adamyk Band - Monterrey 7" - Record Release Show Covers (/50)

Steve Adamyk Band - Monterrey 7" - Record Release Show Covers (/50), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Hosehead (2013)

Due to the undying kindness of the folks over at Hosehead records, I was able to secure the record release show version of the new Steve Adamyk Band 7". If that wasn't good enough, they actually saved me both versions of this variant as well. The covers are hand made. There were 25 blue covers made and 25 yellow covers. I love it when labels do fun things like this, especially when I'm actually able to get copies. I guess I don't love it as much if I have to search for the variants, but there is something to be said for the thrill of the hunt.

As stated in yesterday's write up, the tunes on this guy are top notch. I'm pretty sure I'm on record saying that if you read my website, you really should be buying every Steve Adamyk Band release. They're simply one of the best bands out there.

Steve Adamyk Band - Monterrey 7"
hoseheadrecords.bandcamp.com/album/monterrey-7

Steve Adamyk Band - Monterrey 7"

Steve Adamyk Band - Monterrey 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Hosehead Records (2013)

It is certainly not a secret that the Steve Adamyk Band is one of my absolute favorite bands currently putting out records. They're nothing if not consistently incredible, putting out great song after great song and the 4 on this 7" are no exception. For the most part, they represent the faster, punkier side of the bands catalog, but Adamyk & Co. have an uncanny ability to cram the kind of hook into a song that just gets lodged in your head for days.

While all 4 songs are great, for me it's the closing track "Front To Back" that steals the show. With a back and forth guitar riff and low key vocals, the verse almost seems like it's trying to sneak something by you, only to have the chorus just smack you upside the head with its catchiness.

I'm always happy to add new Steve Adamyk Band records to the collection, and in addition to the record pictured above, there were some release show variants that I'll write about tomorrow.

Steve Adamyk Band - Monterrey 7":
hoseheadrecords.bandcamp.com/album/monterrey-7

Leatherface - More Mush LP - Bootleg

Leatherface - More Mush LP - Bootleg, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Bootleg (2013)

I'm not sure if this was released by the same bootleggers that did yesterday's Mush LP, but it would be an awful weird coincidence for both of them to show up at the same time as they have. This LP compiles most of the B-sides & singles that Leatherface recorded around the Mush era. It has the pre-Mush Smokey Joe EP, The Mush 7" single for I Want The Moon, the 12" single for Not Superstitions and the post-Mush 10", Compact and Bijou.

It's an incredible array of songs as the band was really firing on all cylinders during this time frame. It also shows how quickly the band was evolving during this period as the difference between what they were doing on Smokey Joe and Compact and Bijou is truly striking. You can't really come across a better batch of songs, though my personal opinion is that the version of Dreaming from the Dreaming/Eagle 7" is superior to the version on this bootleg from the I Want the Moon 7".

Now as far as the quality of this bootleg goes, I was eager to see how it held up to the good-but-not-great Mush bootleg. More Mush (which let's be honest is a pretty dumb name for this) is no where near the same level of quality as the Mush bootleg. The overall volume of this record is quite low and the volumes between the songs are wildly inconsistent. The I Want the Moon songs in particular sound very muddled and swampy. Once the Compact and Bijou tracks come up, be prepared for the loudness to increase dramatically (likely since they were sourced from a CD instead of from vinyl).

Additionally, they've removed the Smokey Joe version of the song Trenchfoot for some reason. I get that the song is also on the Not Superstitious 12", but it's a different version. I don't see why you'd cut the Smokey Joe one on a record clearly aimed at fans of the band.

I was really into the idea of being able to put this record on and just sit back and enjoy. But if you really want to enjoy these songs, picking up the originals is essential. I can't even begin to paint a picture of how much better my first pressings of the individual records sound. If you just care about hearing the songs, or if you just need a copy of everything like me, I suppose this is an OK purchase. But the money you'd spend to pick up the originals would be worth it.

Leatherface - You Wanted Everything:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1HaflHEBY8

Leatherface - Dreaming:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-Y9rZWjzwU

Leatherface - Games:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=OiN1fujCWro

Leatherface - Mush LP - Bootleg

Leatherface - Mush LP - Bootleg, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Bootleg (2013)

I'm certainly not a big proponent of bootlegs. I don't like seeing other people profiting when the band gets nothing. It's pretty unfair really. That being said, I have been known to pick up the occasional bootleg for bands that I am a gigantic collector of, for completist purposes. Leatherface is a band that fits this bill.

I'd like to start off talking about the album itself because in my mind it is simply a work of art. It is one of my top 3 albums of all time. It's a record that I just can't live without. Mush starts off with the absolute best side 1, track 1 in history "I Want The Moon." Frankie Stubbs pairs gravely vocals with incredibly dynamic guitar interplay with co-conspirator Dickie Hammond. It's the stuff of legend. This continues over the course of the record with classic songs after classic song.

From the fast paced juggernaut "How Lonely" to the slightly more somber "Not Superstitious" to the reflective "Springtime" to the song that I feel lyrically encapsulates the feeling of love better than any I've ever heard "Not A Day Goes By." There is simply not a bad song on this record. Honestly, there's not even a good song on this record, every track is just perfection. I can't even begin to put into words how important this record is to me. If you read this website and you have not heard Mush, you really owe it to yourself to check it out. I'm not saying buy this bootleg, but you need to hear this album.

Now let's talk about this specific pressing. If you are ever concerned that someone is trying to pass this off as an original, there are 2 tell tale signs that will easily distinguish it from an original. First is there is no Roughneck Records logo on the back. 2nd is the lyric sheet. On the original pressing the lyrics are printed on the inner sleeve that holds the vinyl. This bootleg has them as a separate insert. But kudos to the bootleggers for even bothering to include them.

Sound wise, I put this record on the turntable and was very impressed. Everything sounded pretty good to me. Good tone, not too muddy and the vocals were nice and clear. However, when I was finished I put on my original pressing for a comparison and the difference was very noticeable. The original pressing is louder, sharper and just brighter in general. It's clear as day which is an original and which is a copy. This bootleg may suffice if you just really want to listen to the record on vinyl, but if you truly care about the sound and the experience of listening to this the way it was meant to be heard, it's really worth tracking down an original.

Still, I'm sure I'll throw this bootleg on from time to time. It saves me wear and tear on my original, which remains very expensive to replace. If you need this record on the cheap, the bootleg is a good placeholder.

Leatherface - I Want The Moon:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eXS1NI6Q6Y

Leatherface - Springtime:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQOwepObvg4

Leatherface - Not Superstitious:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wvm674i-YU

The Dagger Eyes - The Dagger Eyes LP - White Vinyl (/100)

The Dagger Eyes - The Dagger Eyes LP - White Vinyl (/100), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Ptrash (2013)

I picked this up earlier in the year as part of my most recent Ptrash order. A punk band from Canada, putting out a record on Ptrash sounded like a can't miss proposition to me. Unfortunately, I can't see myself listening to it all that much. The band is great at what they do. '77 style punk rock with fast guitars and snarling vocals and they do it better than most bands throwing back to that era.

For me though, I'm just more of a pop kid and have always had a hard time getting into vocals like this. I like more melody in my tunes. But if you like a little snotty swagger to your punk rock, check them out.

The Dagger Eyes - The Dagger Eyes LP:
thedaggereyes.bandcamp.com/album/the-dagger-eyes

Your Pest Band / Nato Coles & The Blue Diamond Band - Split 7" - MaroonVinyl

Your Pest Band / Nato Coles & The Blue Diamond Band - Split 7" - Maroon Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Snuffy Smiles (2013)

Sure this 7" is available domestically from ADD records, but it has different artwork and won't allow me to keep my Snuffy Smiles 7" collection complete. So of course I imported the Japanese version (though I actually imported it from the UK). It's the best label in the world and I will always buy everything they release. Interesting is that I believe this is only the 3rd record on Snuffy Smile that's come out on colored vinyl.

So as far as the 2 bands go, Your Pest Band is one of my favorite current Japanese band and they hit with "I Know Why," a bouncy upbeat entry into their catalog that has a late 70's American rock vibe to it, but filtered through YPB's incredible Japanese punk viewpoint. Their 2nd contribution, "We Just Want It," was also was on their recent 10" In My Doom. It was one of the highlights of that release as well.

Nato Coles & The Blue Diamond Band is a band I'm not totally able to wrap my head around. Nato's 1st band, Modern Machines, put out records that I just loved. After that he was in The Used Kids, whoI also like, but not as much as Modern Machines. At this point he's just gone into full bore Bruce Springsteen worship and it's just not doing anything for me. I guess I just need things punked up a bit more.

Your Pest Band / Nato Coles & The Blue Diamond Band - Split 7" :
addrecords.bandcamp.com/album/nato-coles-ypb-split-7

Get Dead - Bad News LP - Green Vinyl

Get Dead - Bad News LP - Green Vinyl, a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Fat Wreck (2013)

I was looking forward to this Get Dead record as I waited for it to show up in the mail. I pre-ordered it early on to lock in the colored vinyl version that typically disappear so quickly from the Fat Wreck store. I was anticipating an early Against Me vibe with their mix of acoustic and electric folk punk.

I was definitely feeling it during the first 2 tracks of the album. "Kerouacs Teeth" and "The Process" both show a great deal of potential. The songs are earnest and well conceived; putting you in that sitting-around-the-campfire state of mind. Unfortunately those songs are the absolute peak of the record and the albums other 10 tracks just kind of meander around, repeating the same themes.

Nothing really stands out over the course of this record. It's by no means bad and the first two songs are actually quite good, but these songs quickly just fade into background noise. There's never that sit up and pay attention moment. I'd give Get Dead another chance in the future, but Bad News just isn't there yet.

Get Dead - Kerouac's Teeth:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrkOHj_dg0U

Get Dead - The Process:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQj5e0zX6S8

The Ballantynes - Faith/Velvet 7"

The Ballantynes - Faith/Velvet 7", a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

La Ti Da (2013)

From a singles series that I didn't buy yesterday to one today that I purchased the day it went on sale. La Ti Da records out of Canada has a series that while a bit delayed, is just packed with stellar records. The first one to show up at my door is the latest 7" from The Ballantynes. You can buy these records individually, but if you want the limited to 150 copies colored vinyl (white in this case) you need to be a subscriber.

Thus far The Ballantynes have only released 7"s, and I've bought them all. The first 2 were fantastic and this 3rd one raises the bar even higher. The Ballantynes play a throwback, but extremely authentic 60's Stax soul sound. The sultry vocals, the driving bass and even little nuances like the recording they've managed to get out of the guitars just takes me back to when I was younger and was first discovering the bands that inspired one of my earliest musical memories; the Blues Brothers.

As good as these 7"s have been, I think The Ballantynes will truly shine when they have a chance to put out a full album. There's something about the way they approach their music that assures me the best is yet to come and I simply can't wait for that to happen.

The Ballantynes - Faith/Velvet 7":
latidarecords.bandcamp.com/album/faith-velvet-7-ltdr016

Helvetia & Built To Spill - Spooky Action At The Sufferbus 7" - FlexiDisc (/1000)

Helvetia & Built To Spill - Spooky Action At The Sufferbus 7" - Flexi Disc (/1000), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Joyful Noise (2013)

Despite my deep, undying love of the 7" singles series, I couldn't bring myself to plunk down for Joyful Noise's 2013 Flexi Disc series. A, because there were really only 2 bands announced that I liked and B, I can't get all that excited about flexis. In Joyful Noise's defense, this is just about the best sounding flexi I've ever played and they obviously have put a great deal of care and work into the artwork, packaging and the like. But I honestly couldn't tell you why they just don't up the price of the series a bit and put out real 7"s. Seems wacky to me.

Anyway, since I wasn't going to buy the series but I had to maintain my complete Built To Spill 7" collection, I went to eBay. Picked this up for $18. Probably too much to pay for 1 song, but far from a rip off and certainly cheaper than buying a whole series of records I didn't want. The song is pretty good. You can certainly hear the Built To Spill in there, but I think the song is more driven by the Helvetia folks. It's upbeat pop that just screams of the 90's. It reminds me quite a bit of bands like Some Velvet Sidewalk or other K records pop shenanigans.

This record was essential to add to my Built To Spill collection, but unless you're a completist, this isn't a record that should at the top of your overpay on eBay list. Can't find the song streaming anywhere unfortunately.

Iron Chic - Spooky Action 7" - US Version, Red Vinyl (/350)

Iron Chic - Spooky Action 7" - US Version, Red Vinyl (/350), a photo by Tim PopKid on Flickr.

Bridge Nine (2013)

This is the US version of the Iron Chic 7" I wrote about yesterday. Though I missed out on the most limited version of the US version (gray vinyl /150), I do like the red vinyl as it matches the art work. Musically you can apply the same review I wrote yesterday other the 3rd song on this 7" is different from the UK version.

On the UK version there was a Butthole Surfers cover that didn't do anything for me. On Bridge Nine's variant that is replaced with a Ramones cover, which also doesn't really do anything for me. Now I like the Ramones way more than I like Butthole Surfers, so I enjoy this song more. But, I have to say, I would have just preferred another Iron Chic original as the 2 songs of theirs on this 7" are just fantastic.

Iron Chic - Spooky Action:
bridge9.bandcamp.com/album/spooky-action