I like to listen to music new, old and everything in between. I also have no issue giving something a listen I never heard before. For example at a recent show a song came on the PA so I asked what tune that was. Well, I asked my wife to ask. No soundman would ignore her whereas I am easily ignored! It was “Spanish Stroll” by Mink DeVille….from 1977! Somehow I had totally missed out on this band and awesome song(s). So here are 3 bands latest releases I have been listening to.
Consider this Blair’s New & Noteworthy Vol. 3 (thanks Meister for the title!), I think each band has something to offer for a variety of taste.
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Honeymoon Disease: The Transcendence
Release Date: Nov. 20th – 2015
If you like hook and riff laden 70’s style groove rock, this is for you. Very comparable to Thin Lizzy. I would suggest that as you begin the spin have some patience, I know that is so out of date but still sounds so good to those of us that recall such memories. The album takes some time to grow; at least it did for me. Don’t get me wrong, it starts out very good; for me the first really great tune is track 5: “You’re Too Late”. I also like the length of the songs at around 2-3 minutes, for the most part, a couple are longer. Well-structured guitar groove heavy and the vocals are strong. The group hails from Sweden, a four piece, I hope they get their due and are given the chance to grow with at least a couple more albums. This is the kind of band I can see evolving from good to great.
Tracks to try: “You’re Too Late” / “Fast Love” / “Brand New Ending”
BUY: Honeymoon Disease – The Transcendence
Honeymoon Disease Website / Honeymoon Disease Facebook
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeGgIhpy8uE[/embedyt]
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The Carburetors: Laughing In The Face of Death
Release Date: Nov. 20th – 2015
On this their fourth release and latest in 5 years, these veterans of the European rock n’ roll circuit came at it as they do their live show, recording almost the entire release live as a band in the studio. For the uninitiated, the music is played fast and loud and the vocals go between the death growl of thrash to a more melodic metal singing similar to Metallica, the latter being what I prefer. There is clearly a 50’s rock n’ roll influence heard throughout, the band has often been referred to as boogie rock metal. The guitar playing is a highlight.
Tracks to try: “Hellfire” / “Don’t Touch The Flame” / “Shot Full of Noise”
BUY: The Carburetors – Laughing in the Face of Death
The Carburetors Website / The Carburetors Facebook / The Carburetors Twitter
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ms_6W_XzU6M[/embedyt]
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Psychopunch: Sweet Baby Octane
Release Date: Nov. 20th – 2015
Another release from the Swedish punk rockers, this is their 11th if you count only their full releases. They have quite a repository of EP’s and other releases, as is the case with the punk genre as a norm. A few line-up changes as well which has led to a more collaborative approach to song-writing, according to the band. What I like most about this band is their willingness to step outside the tight genre that punk can be. While I have a soft spot for gritty punk rock it is usually for those that add a little something to the formula, and they do with some pop sensibility that lends itself to writing anthem sounding songs. The first 3 tracks are standard punk fare, good songs no doubt, however, it is from the 4th track on “Forever And A Day” that I hear the band with smiling ears! This is a VERY strong release, well-done Psychopunch!
Tracks to try: “Forever And A Day” / “Turn Up The Radio” / “Drinking Alone” / “Time is on Our Side” / “Punkrocker”
BUY: Psychopunch – Sweet Baby Octane
Psychopunch Website / Psychopunch Facebook / Psychopunch Twitter
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjoID9s44iQ[/embedyt]
