Older Girls, The Rudds (from the album Get the Femuline Hang On)
A tasty blend of garage rock and late 70’s/early 80’s soul. This is one that you’ll be humming for days.
On Automatic, Michael Penn (from the album Mr Hollywood, Jr., 1947)
A welcome return from a true pop craftsman!
When You Lie, Patty Hurst Shifter (from the forthcoming album Too Crowded on the Losing End)
Long overdue new music from North Carolina’s Patty Hurst Shifter, and a driving rock and roll tune to boot!
Arse Kickin’ lady from the Northwest, You Am I (from the live album …saturday night, ’round ten)
Simply put, these guys rock. The Northwest in question is in Australia.
6 String Belief, Son Volt (from the album Okemah and the Melody of Riot)
“Rock and roll around my head, alive and kicking…”
Long Way Down, Todd Thibaud (from the album Northern Skies)
After hearing him play this song live in the Boston clubs for several years, it finally gets an official release. A great rock and roll song that will stick in hour head.
Bring It Home Again, Charlie Sexton (from the album Cruel and Gentle Things)
A yearning but uplifting melody anchors this acoustic-based track. The first solo album in 10 years by this renowned session player and producer.
The Worst Part of a Broken Heart, Shannon McNally (from the album Geronimo)
McNally’s sensual voice, with just a hint of twang, is mesmerizing on this Charlie Sexton-produced track.
A**holes, the Damnwells (from the album Bastards of the Beat and the ep There’s No One Left in Brooklyn But You)
“Everybody grew up turned into a**holes, you don’t have to turn up giving me hassles…”
Sunsets, Powderfinger (from the 2003 album Vulture Street)
Is there something in the Australian water that produces great rock bands? A nice find; complete with a triple guitar attack.
Banditos, the Peacemakers (from the album Live at Billy Bob’s)
Its hard to go wrong with a live album by one of the best live acts performing today. Some may recognize this song as the first single by lead singer Roger Clyne’s previous band, the Refreshments.
He Had a Mother Tongue, the Gentlemen (from the album Brass City Band)
The powerhouse Boston rock band injects a bit of soul into the music on their latest release. Chock full of hits, this album is destined to make my list of top albums in 2005.
Chicago Seemed Tired Last Night, the Hold Steady (from the album Separation Sunday)
“and i met william butler yeats, sunday nite dance party summer 1988. At first i thought it might be william blake.”
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.