Check out Episode 7 of Custom Made Music Radio as we discuss the new Stooges, Drivin' N' Cryin' and Morphine documentaries plus play tracks from Ballad of Geraldine, Potential Red, Booji Boys, The Red Shift, Circus Devils, Holy Water, WANWEIRD, The Free Radical, The Retinas, Sebadoh, Surfer Blood and ELORA.
Allison Crutchfield "Tourist In This Town" LP (Merge Records)
Loving this debut album from singer/songwriter Allison Crutchfield. Raised in Alabama Crutchfield began performing in her teenage years forming the bands P.S. Eliot and Bad Banana with her twin sister Katie of Waxahatchee. In 2012 she co-founded the band Swearin’ and began to develop more and more as a songwriter. "Tourists In This Town" shows just how far Crutchfield has come as the album captures her amazing vocal range and stellar musicianship alongside a sea of breathtaking synths, jangling guitars and infectious percussion. The powerful hooks in "I Don't Ever Wanna Leave California" give it an undeniable appeal while "Charlie" is one of the most honest and heartfelt songs you will hear all year. The "Be My Baby" style beat and pumping piano on "Expatriate" woven with Crutchfield's spectacular vocal cadence make it another top notch track. “Tourist in This Town is completely made up of heightened anxiety and became a clearly defined puzzle that I slowly put together over the course of a year,” says Crutchfield. “It’s a record about change—change of scenery, of partner, of band, of home, of friends, of outlook—and how that change can cause a temporary panic but ultimate triumph in most of us.” "Tourist In This Town" is officially available today courtesy of Merge Records
Lagomorph "Winter Sessions" E.P. (lagomorph.bandcamp.com)
Italian ambient/soundscape project Lagomorph returns with this innovative two track E.P. full of astonishingly beautiful sounds that move together with poise and elegance. "Forest Of Misunderstandings" is surrounded by a gloomy vibe but with an underlying layer of mystery and hope. It's simple melody is backed by gorgeous layers of mesmerizing reverberations that offer a sense of euphoria as the track builds and builds with intensity. "In Pouring Rain" is even more delicate and lulling. The cinematic drone of sheets of rain looms in the background as shimmering swells of uplifting guitars create a peaceful and inspiring tone that is stimulating and strong. Overall "Winter Sessions" is a captivating release that explores the realms of experimental recording with an open mind and open heart. Highly recommended!!!
Philadelphia's The Retina's are one of the most prolific bands on the East Coast DIY/Inide rock scene and "Singles" compiles all of the latest one off tracks that they have released under one umbrella. From the lo-fi jangle of "Holly-Touch" to the galloping shuffle and punk attitude of "Feel Alright" the band showcase their brand of stripped down, dirty rock n roll in fine form. "Love Is Ridicule" channels a bit of that laid back,tongue in cheek vibe circa "Hootenanny" era Replacements while "Dissatisfaction" is simply one of the bands best songs to date. Look for a new cassette set out soon on CMM and a lengthy U.S. tour this Spring.
Seasloth "Sometime Soon" LP (seasloth.bandcamp.com)
Quite a remarkable debut album from Australian based psychedelic band Seasloth. From the opening tones of "So It Goes" you can tell this band is "all in" as far as musicianship and intensity goes because this band can flat out play. The crawling menace of "Tea Time With Tom" showcases their ability to combine lush atmospheric sounds with grit and power while the shoegaze tendencies explored throughout "Marshmellon" create an other worldly experience that fans of bands like MBV and Slowdive will welcome with open ears. Things get even more psychedelic and even a bit tropical during the colorful and vibrant piece know as "Intergalactic Battle For The Soul Of Man". It's deep layers of modulated guitars and 60's inspired stance meshes well with the epic dynamics found throughout the cunning presence of "It's Unknown". "Sometime Soon" is the type of album that is best enjoyed from beginning to end. It certainly sets a mind bending mood that takes you to a place where anything is possible. An inspiring and thought provoking album that carves out a sound that's all it's own.
Swampland "The Stranded West" (swampland.bandcamp.com)
There's a dark cloud and dusky mood that hangs over each of the songs on Swampland's debut album "The Stranded West". Tracks like "Path To Purity" and "I'll Never Know" harness a dangerous presence and swaggering flair that embraces the spirit of Nick Cave and Dead Moon but also put a catchy twist on things at times blending infectious hooks with an intriguing blast of gloom and doom. There are also some very Americana elements to the album as the shuffling rhythm of "Wounded Knee" sounds like a cross between Chris Issak and Joe Doe collaborating on a classic spaghetti western score with a touch of The Wovenhand thrown in for good measure. The striking stance of "Sirens Wall" embraces aspects of rockabilly and punk and there's a soulfulness to "Axeman Of New Orleans" that offers a twinge of Danzig alongside a mysterious carnival like setting. Overall "The Stranded West" is a highly enjoyable ride with many cinematic twists and turns that keep you engaged waiting to hear what will come next.
WANWEIRD "Green Jelly" Single (wanweirdmusic.bandcamp.com)
Coming off of last years stellar E.P. "Honey & Salt" London's Natalie Bibby aka WANWEIRD returns with a delightful new single titled "Green Jelly". It's catchy vocals and lush undertones work brilliantly with it's pounding drums and crushing power chords. The swirling sounds of a theremin even make it's way into the mix courtesy of Love Battery vocalist Ron Nine. This is the type of track that has just enough bounce to it that it's fun to sing along to but backs it up with a solid dose of 90's inspired rock n roll angst that pulls no punches. Head over to the Wanweird bandcamp page and check out all of Natalie's amazing songs.
1. David Bowie "Lazarus" (davidbowie.com)
The loss of David Bowie on January 10th of this year was a devastating blow to us all. His final album "Blackstar" was released just two days before and Bowie had planned the album to be his swan song, and a "parting gift" for his fans before his death. "Lazarus" was the albums second single and it's hard to put into words the feeling I get every time I watch this video.
2. Mayflower Madame "Confusion Hill" (mayflowermadame.bandcamp.com)
It doesn't get much better than this. Dark, hypnotic psych rock from Oslo, Norway that delves deep inside your soul. Just one of several stand out tracks from their debut album "Observed In A Dream".
3. The Gluts "That's Me" (thegluts.org)
A dangerously haunting offering from one of Italy's best bands. The frightening video only adds to the dramatic dynamics that build throughout the track. Looking forward to more from this shoegaze/psych unit in the months to come.
4. Clifffs "Volcano" (clifffs.bandcamp.com)
Stripped down in your face punk rock n roll backed by catchy hooks and a blistering guitar attack that's second to none.
5. Adult Colour "Spacemen II" (adultcolour.bandcamp.com)
A brilliant track that's full of ferocious guitars and mind bending atmospherics that take you into an other worldly environment. Definitely one of my favorite new bands.
6. Tom Lockett "Feeling Bad" (Magic Cactus Records)
The first single from singer/songwriter Tom Lockett is the real deal. I hear everything from early Marc Bolan to Woody Guthrie here as it sets a mood that is genuine and pure.
7. Kyle Craft "Eye Of A Hurricane" (kylecraft.bandcamp.com)
Such a stellar cut that features Craft's powerful vocal delivery backed by a pumping piano and an heavy dose of glam rock swag. Think Bowie, classic Elton John and a dash of ragtime flair for good measure.
8. Dinosaur JR "Tiny" (dinosaurjr.com)
There's a fine balance of youthful energy and familiar sounds throughout the track as J Mascis trademark fuzz guitar tone and laid back vocal stance lead the way.
9. Jaguanera "Did You Know?" (seahorserecordings.com)
A colorful and vibrant piece from this brilliant Italian post punk outfit that moves with elegance and grace. It's stunning melody and dark undertones make it one of the most moving tracks of the year.
10. Bat For Lashes "Sunday Love" (batforlashes.com)
Natasha Khan strikes big again. A stunning piece sure to leave you breathless.
11. Friars "Good Old Times" (soundcloud.com/friars-1)
"Good Old Times" mixes a banging surf/punk spirit with indie pop tendencies highlighted by some incredibly intricate guitar work. Great track.
12. Boss Hog "Wichita Grey" (In The Red Records)
Legend has it that Boss Hog are internationally-known as New York City’s most provocative and original rock’n’roll band and I'd say "Wichita Grey" just might etch this statement in stone.
13. The Orange Kyte "Inside Out n' Upside Down" (theorangekyte.bandcamp.com)
"Inside Out n' Upside Down" is a brilliant upbeat psych tinged number that's full of 60's swagger and sway. It's bright and fun and full of life and sits well alongside the bands previous singles.
14. The Retinas "Accident" (theretinas.bandcamp.com)
A lo-fi garage rock n roll masterpiece from one of the most prolific bands going today.
15. Loving You "Nothing But Glory" (Grindhouse Edition) (lovingyoumusic.bandcamp.com)
Led by the incredible presence of vocalist Alison Clancy "Nothing But Glory" harnesses a power and spirit that draws you in and takes you on a hypnotic journey throughout a world of mystery and intrigue.
16. Today Junior "Leaving Easy" (todayjunior.bandcamp.com)
Uplifting, surf guitar driven punk rock n roll that is just down right fun to listen to.
17. So Pitted "Feed Me" (sopitted.bandcamp.com)
A no punches pulled rocker full of relentless aggression from start to finish that's sure to deliver a sledgehammer sized blast to your ears.
18. The I Don't Cares "Love out Loud" (paulwesterberg.com)
Paul Westerberg and Juliana Hatfield have teamed up to form The I Don't Cares. "Love Out Loud" from the duo's debut album "Wild Stab" is a raunchy, high energy rocker led by a buzzsaw like guitar attack and Westerbergs trademark rasp.
19. This Blinding Light "Mercury" (thisblindinglight.bandcamp.com)
A stunningly beautiful song and video from one of Seattle's best shoegaze/psych outfits.
20. The Verigolds "Cross Fire" (theverigolds.com)
Spectacular piece from this San Diego based ensemble. It's breezy, laid back feel and soothing vocals are some of the best you will hear anywhere.
The Retinas are a post punk, garage rock band from Philadelphia. Their latest E.P. "Chaba" features five of their best songs yet drawing comparisons to the likes of The Smoking Popes, Guided By Voices and The Strokes. Vocalist/Guitarist Tom McHugh shares some of his favorite songs in this weeks edition of "Five For Friday" but first check out the video for The Retinas song "Accident" from their "Chaba" cassette E.P. available now from CMM.
The Strokes - The Modern Age
This is my favorite song of all time. The song begins with the drums and the rhythm guitar perfectly on the off off beat from each other. The lyrics have made sense for every period of my life since I first heard it. They begin as a book begins, placing the setting "Up on a hill is where we begin, this little story, long time ago". Really well written and executed.
Pangea - Love & Alcohol
This song has some of the most brutally beautiful lyrics of all time. It has a dying sarcasm in the way he sings the song, accompanied by a classic down home guitar.
Jay Retard - No Time
Very different from a lot of his other stuff and I love it cause it sounds like it was recorded next to someone dying in a hospital.
The Chelsea Kills - Toe The Line
One of our favorite bands to play with. Stellar lyrics, awesome guitar lines, probably our favorite song of theirs.
Natural Child - Dogbite
Pump up song everyday.
Kostis Chaveles "A Mad Tea Party" (chaveles.bandcamp.com)
Quite an action packed album from Greek musician Kostis Chaveles that mixes cagey rock n roll with atmospheric dynamics. The vibrant sounds of "Marionette" set the pace with it's mysterious undertones and Chaveles hypnotic vocal stance. The dark guitar sounds and galloping drums on stand out tracks like "Illusion" and "A Mad Tea Party" bring to mind classic 90's bands like Throwing Muses and Afghan Whigs while the melodic filled "Run" has a more uplifting spirit to it. "My Apple Pie" seems to combine all of Chaveles best aspects at once as it takes you on a roller coaster ride that really shows off his stellar song writing ability and guitar chops in top form. Overall "A Mad Tea Party" is a highly enjoyable album from start to finish that leaves me looking forward to what's next from this promising new artist.
Sail "RUN" E.P. (wearesail.bandcamp.com)
London based indie pop outfit Sail impress on their debut E.P. "Run". The title track is highlighted by a swaggering vocal performance backed by jangling guitars and a thunderous rhythm section. The band turn things up a notch during "We're Grounded" as it's quick pace and high energy make for a very enjoyable track. "Sink Or Swim" is a bit more laid back but is certainly the most intense track of the album. The vocal attack and accompanying guitars channel a cosmic element that works really well together while "Rock N Roll Queen" (All In Black) shows off a more melodic side of the band and adds diversity to their sound. Be on the lookout for good things from these guys in 2016.
Serpenthead "Serpentfoot Serpentfoot" E.P. (serpentfoot.bandcamp.com)
From the opening chords of "Some Steam" you know your in for a wild ride when listening to this debut from Colorado's Serpenthead. There' a presence and energy that the band harness that falls someplace between The Stooges, The Ventures and The Kinks. The surf tinged guitars that fill the speakers during "Hopper" are second to none and match up well with the psych punk tone of "Break Me Off" while "Maybe Leave" drifts into a more grooved out feel before blasting into a riff full of high charged guitar fuzz and primal energy. "Wizard Tits" (Until Further Notice) features bottomless bass guitar and pounding drums and delves into heavier territory than the previous tracks as "All The Time" brings in a catchy chorus and fun feel that ties this highly enjoyable E.P. together in fine form.
Sloom "Wasp Honey" E.P. (sloom173a.bandcamp.com)
A really fun sounding E.P. from these Australian based garage rockers. Opening number "Chocolate In The Middle" is set off by a matter of fact style vocal presence that's backed by a driving beat,surf rock guitars and an outstanding bass line that all fits together well. The blues drenched style of "Such A Man" simply crushes with it's raunchy vocals and blistering fuzzed out guitar leads. "Magic Cup" has a more traditional surf/garage rock vibe in the spirit of The Sonic's and The Trogg's while songs like "Waiting For You" and "If I Only Try" sound like they came from the soundtrack of a long lost 60's biker film. The final track "Isolated" is a 5 plus minute garage rock master piece that simply never let's up. Do yourself a favor and check these guys out.
The Retinas "Got Smokes" E.P. (theretinas.bandcamp.com)
Excellent E.P. from this Philly based rock n roll unit. "Mommy Says" is a catchy power chord filled rocker that brings to mind the likes of Husker Du and The Smoking Popes. The slower paced "Replace Myself" is a lo-fi hook fulled indie pop number that pays a nice homage to Guided By Voices with it's no frills production and heartfelt stance, while "Ketamind" and "About You" bring on a powerful presence that echoes the spirits of early melodic punk. The jangling guitars on "Problem With The World" adds a nice garage.psych vibe to the mix that's met with a striking vocal performance that will have you singing along for days on end. The barn burning "Devil Stretch" closes the E.P. out with one last good kick in the teeth as everything comes crashing to an abrupt abrasive end and leaves me longing for more. A remarkably well crafted release that combines the best of catchy melodies and angst ridden rock to the fullest extent.
Wilder Thing E.P. (wilderthing.bandcamp.com)
Portland Maine musician Wes Sterrs offers up an incredible new E.P. from his project Wilder Thing. "Goodbye Galaxy" is a unique blend of sci-fi garage psych and eclectic indie rock. Opening track "Fantastic Flying Machine" (Intro) kicks things off with a driving beat and infectious riff that has a very organic rock n roll feel. "Lipstick Rocketship" is a bit more moody and reminds me a bit of "Sea Change" era Beck. It's flowing acoustic guitars and wandering organs give it a very mysterious flair while the spacey upbeat "I Just Need Some Sleep" is a jumpy number accompanied by an impressive vocal that's like venturing into the mind of a frantic scientist. The laid back feel of closing track "Strange Seaweed" combines jazz with spacey undertones and a hypnotic whispering vocal that makes for the perfect ending. A well put together release that features excellent songwriting and enticing atmospherics to make a well rounded highly recommended release.
