Bite Me! CD Reviews G - R

Gnarls Barkley – St. Elsewhere (Downtown/Atlantic)

Gnarls Barkley—the pseudonym of neo-soul guru Cee-Lo & dynamic DJ Danger Mouse—has released a genre-bending album that draws on influences ranging from hip-hop, electric pop, acid jazz, soul, funk, and rock.  I attended the listening party for this release not knowing what to expect and left feeling inspired.  We haven’t seen something this clever since Outkast’s ‘Speakerboxxx/The Love Below’.  St. Elsewhere is an ingenious mix that starts off with the off-kilter party beats of “Go-Go Gadget Gospel” before sliding comfortably into the buoyant R&B backbeat of the hit single “Crazy”.  Speaking of “Crazy” the song made history as the first download only single to reach the #1 spot in the U.K.  Pretty impressive, but not as impressive as the cover of the Violent Femmes “Gone Daddy Gone”.  It’s pretty obvious that St Elsewhere is an amazing album that you’ll want to listen to over and over.  It’s hard to resist the disco-era funk of “The Last Time,” the silky horns and hand-clappin’ break beats of “I’m free,” and the booty shaking bump of “Cinematic”.   The soulful “Smiley Faces” also does a good job of getting the dance floor hopping.  Not to be overlooked is the smooth relaxed flow of “Feng Shui” and the trip-hop “Necromancer” that dances around dark beats and even darker lyrics.  This classic offering closes with the unforgettable “The Last Time”.  You know, every now and then there comes an album that everyone has to have in their collection.  Gnarls Barkley’s St. Elsewhere is one of those albums.  -NIN

Godsmack – IV (Universal/Republic) 1/2

Not only is IV Godmack’s first studio release in three years it is also the band’s first record produced entirely by Sully.  The band comes back strong with the blistering “Speak,” but the album is not all about pummeling the listener into submission.  It appears that Sully has mellowed out a bit over the years.  Some anger is still present; however, he channels it differently.  IV retains the toughness of Godsmack’s sound while moving forward musically.  Tony’s recognizable riffs, the tribal drumbeats, rumbling bass, and Sully’s throaty vocals are still present.  However, the album is centered in more roots driven hard rock.  These diverse and richly textured songs demonstrate the strength of the band’s songwriting and maturity as artists. According to Sully the record is about the paths to truth, which is evident in the haunting melodies of “Voodoo Too” & “Hallow” and the dark melodies of “Livin' in Sin”.  “The Enemy” showcases the powerful rhythm section of Shannon Larkin & Robbie Merrill.  A bluesy harmonica solo announces the southern tinged “Shine Down”.  The energized “Temptation” rocks with conviction, and the radio friendly “No Rest for the Wicked” demonstrates Sully’s ability as a producer.   All in all, IV is a good album.  The overall flow could have been smoother, but it is Sully’s first shot.  -NIN

The Golden Gods – The Thorny Sound Of Rock ‘N’ Roll (The Control Group) 1/2

The band’s name reminds me of the scene in Almost Famous when the singer of Stillwater yells “I am a Golden God” before jumping off the roof into the swimming pool, which we all know is an adaptation of Robert Plants infamous moment at the Sunset Blvd. hotel.  Regardless, I’m sure either or both inspired this band’s name.  The Golden Gods are reminiscent of bands like Spinal Tap, The Darkness, and Supagroup and they put the fun back in rock with their catchy extravagant arena size sound.  This self-produced, supercharged album melds the glory of 70’s rock with 80’s excess.  With its big slabs of killer guitar and ZZ-top style harmonies The Thorny Sound Of Rock ‘N’ Roll belongs in your guilty pleasure category.  -NIN

Hedley (Capital) 1/2

Yup, Capital has a hit.  Hedley’s self-titled effort is incredibly commercial, catchy, and ultra poppy.  It’s one of those albums that you don’t want to like but you can’t get the songs out your head.  Truth be told, Hedley’s self-titled debut was released in Canada over a year ago and has already reached platinum status, so the odds are good that they’ll do well in the U.S.  Just listen to the arena ready anthem “On My Own,” the overtly poppy “Street Fight,” and the hard rockin’ “Villian” for proof.  And, of course, there is the incredibly sentimental “Gunnin,’” which meets the standards of obligatory power ballad.  Oh, and in case you didn’t know, vocalist Jacob Hoggard was the third place winner on Canadian American Idol.  (In response to a dare so he says).  Universal came a knockin’ and a new line-up for Hedley was born.   -NIN

Hit the Switch – Domestic Tranquility & Social Justice (Nitro/LW Media Relations)  

Interesting idea.  Get your music out to the public through the internet.  Great for a band, but for the actual record company?  Nitro’s saying it’s to promote the band and stoke interest.  I’m trying to find the CD on Amazon, and it’s not there.  But you can purchase through iTunes at $.99 a track (many are available online at Nitro.com for free).  Enough of the business proposition – is it worth that $.99??  Yes, if you’re looking for a pretty decent socially aware melodic punk band.  Hit the Switch is no Pennywise, NOFX, or Social D, but they try lyrically.  The music is standard punk with the occasional great guitar riff, gang vocals, and standard progressions.  Not bad – not great yet but could get there. “Anarcho-Syndicalist” is the track I enjoyed most so if you’ve only got a buck… -J

Hoobastank – Every Man For Himself (Island) 1/2

Hoobastank’s Every Man For Himself offers more variety by way of beats and style.  Bored with the current doldrums the Cali pop-rockers experimented with their sound by adding more keyboards, strings, horns, percussion, and sound effects to the mix.  Established fans may need to approach this with an open mind, but new comers will happily jump right in.  Every Man For Himself is filled with chart topping pop rock anthems that are fueled by arena sized riffs and heartfelt lyrics.  The infectious electro-pop inspired “Born to Lead” makes for a potent single.  The jazz funk metal infusion of “Inside You” gives off plenty of smoking grooves.  “If I Were You” is another hit inspired by Scott Weiland.  Just listen to the lyrics and it’s obvious.  The boys take things down a notch with the soul searching melodies of “Moving Forward” and the blues guitar intro of “Look Where We Are”.  By contrast “Good Enough” comes on strong with a heavier beat.  The album closes with “More Than a Memory” - an epic piece that shows the band branching off and exploring a Pink Floyd influence thanks to its orchestral incorporations.  In the end, Every Man For Himself is a strong album that is ripe with solid tunes.  The songs bear Hoobastank’s signature, but sound different from past offerings.  And, in a world plagued by doldrums that’s a good thing. -NIN

Isis – In The Absence Of Truth (Ipecac) 3/4 

Let’s start by saying that Isis was the perfect opener for Tool.  Their technically progressive sound and lengthy jams make them the perfect band to get stoned to.  They even throw in the occasional death metal growl to snap you out of your lucid state.  Within the confines of In The Absence Of Truth one finds that the bands sludge metal tempos are firmly planted in hardcore roots.  The lyrics are occasionally audible, the musicianship is above par, the melodies are hypnotic and hallucinogenic, and the vocals convey an eerie drone that is occasionally interrupted by a growl from the bowels of hell.  This album may not be for everyone, but it’s well constructed and so many records fall short in that category.  -NIN

It’s Revenge – Rock And Roll Retribution (Man Made Monster Music) 1/2

Reminiscent of Handsome Devil, It’s Revenge is the band that all the cool kids in your school are into.  Having been together for about 2 years, It’s Revenge is a really hard band to dislike.  Cohesive and contagious, the blistering rock tunes that make up Rock And Roll Retribution are charged with an addictive raw energy.  The non-stop bounce behind every song is maintained by irresistible pop hooks.  You know it’s good when you just have to sing-a-long at first listen.  Highlight: “Kill Your Radio,” “These Times,” and “New York Minute”.  -NIN

Jurassic 5 – Feedback (Interscope)  3/4

It’s been three years but Jurassic 5 are back.  Recorded during the band’s last endless tour, Feedback is an adventurous piece of work that traverses the musical spectrum.   Much like the Peas, J5 aims to put a positive spin in their verses and they deliver them with honestly and optimism.  Thanks to its array of talented producers Feedback delivers mind blowing beats, innovative rhymes, soulful harmonizing, and top-notch turntable wizardry.  With its phat groovin’ beats, “In The House” is a tribute to old school west coast party rap.  “Work It Out” features Jurassic 5’s silky smooth rap over Dave Mathews signature jams.  The bouncy rhythms of “Brown Girl” are accentuated by the sultry vocals of reggae sister act Brick & Lace and 70’s soul infuses “Baby Please”.   Thanks to the infusion of nü-skool flava into J5’s trade mark old school hip-hop Feedback doesn’t disappoint. - NIN

Killing Joke – Hosanna From The Basements of Hell (Cooking Vinyl)  

Hosanna From The Basements of Hell packs a serious punch and captures the essence of Killing Joke’s dark industrial roots.  25 years and counting this band only gets harder with age.  Hosanna is more cinematic in nature.  The dance beats are still evident but not prominent, and the band’s signature heavy crunch is offset by strategically placed time changes.  There are also plenty of rigorous guitars, arduous drums, chaotic distortion, and dramatic cadences to keep things interesting.  “Walking with Gods” and “Majestic” will take you back to the band’s early days and “Implosion” is an ear worthy tune that explodes with emotion and rawness.  The only complaint is that the mix could be better as the vocals often get lost.  Aside, from that, Hosanna From The Basements of Hell is a respectable offering that explains why Killing Joke has been an inspiration to many.  -NIN

Last Conservative – Pretty New Things (Good Charamel Records) 3/4

Last Conservative’s Pretty New Things is one of those no frills rock albums that sounds good just the way it is.  Straight forward and to the point, Last Conservative’s radio friendly sound is reminiscent of the Goo Goo Dolls.  The melodically charged “Little Flame” resonates with shinny happy tones.  The pummeling angst of “Don’t Touch Me” displays the band’s heavier side, as does “Distraction”.   Other standouts include the sultry swagger of “King of Failure” and the anthemic “Presents and Apologies”.  -NIN

LeatherWolf – World Asylum (Massacre) 3/4

Yes, I admit.  I was a huge LeatherWolf fan.  I went to all their club shows before they were signed.  Not only were they great musicians but Mike Oliveri had an amazing voice.  So, I was disappointed to find that he is not on World Asylum, except for a small background vocal appearance.  Sadly, life commitments kept him from re-joining the band.  Wade has more of a metal growl and less finesse than Mike.  World Asylum is the band’s first studio album in over fifteen years.  Released under a different moniker this album would be fine.  In general, it’s not bad and someone just discovering the group would dig it.  The band is now comprised of Geoff Gayer (g), Dean Roberts (d), Wade Black (v), Eric Halpern (g), and Patrick Guyton (b).  Geoff and Dean are the only original members, but two is not enough to retain LeatherWolf’s very distinct sound.  It really isn’t apparent on this record.  In fact, World Asylum is a completely different animal.  It’s good for a metal record, but unless you can completely erase memories of the past it’s hard to appreciate it for what it is.    -NIN

Monsters Are Waiting – Fascination (Retone/Hoola Hoof Records) 1/2

This is the debut release from local Echo Park hipsters Monsters Are Waiting.  After being fortunate enough to catch one of their explosive live shows, during a residency at the famed club Spaceland, I was anxious to hear how they would translate on a shiny spinney disc.  During the first few minutes of opening blast "Last Goodbye" the listener is instantly transplanted to a shinier poppier time.  A time when, for indie bands, London based heroes 4AD ruled the roost – a time of female fronted mood setters such as Throwing Muses and Lush.  A time when In Da Club had nothing to do with Fiddy Cent, but had everything to do with dressing up to go out, downing copious amounts of Snakebite and Black, and wearing horrifically pointed boots.  I'll be honest; it took a few plays to get over singer Annalee Fery's, at times, almost pre pubescent yelp, especially on the track "Don’t Go," which, although fits the frustrating context of the song, is still easy to annoy.  There is something for everyone on this album.  Whether you are looking for Saccharine breathy vocals ala "Perfect Stranger" or dark alleys in which to roam (as with the Interpolesque "Christine") you are well covered.  A standout for me is "Nobody," which is great to play on those days when you feel like a tiny fish in an enormous pond.  Play it to your kid sister, who wears her bangs long, and she will love you forever.  Sometimes the harmonics and effects evoke other local standouts, such as Autolux, although they usually turn everything to 12 instead of 11.  I don't know if the band has made it to the UK yet, but I’m sure if they do they would get an NME cover as fast as you could say "This year’s big thing".  The playing is at times awesome.  The drums sound enormous and fit perfectly with thick danceable basslines circa Pixies ‘Bossanova’.  Sure it’s nothing new.  Toronto's Metric have been making a similar noise for some time now, and even though Monsters may appear late to the party at least they brought some really good wine with them.  -Glenurse

Morgan - …And The Moon Was Hungry (Obsecura Records) 1/2

The goth industrial folk artist known as Morgan is not only unique but also inspiring.  This classically trained muse incorporates knowledge into her music thanks to the plethora of musical genres that have inspired her from childhood to adulthood.  Her songs are a flawless fusion of the classical training of her youth and the dark wave/industrial music she grew to love.  In fact, the artist substitutes violin and cello for guitar and bass.  Her recent release And The Moon Was Hungry is a forward thinking piece of work that reflects Morgan’s deep appreciation and understanding of the musical arts.  The compositions are theatrical, sensual, aggressive, and beautiful and the lyrics are eloquent and descriptive.  This album may even inspire listeners to explore musical realms beyond pabulum radio. If you’re seeking to expand your horizons Morgan is the artist you seek.  -NIN

Mower – Not For You (Suburban Noize)

This blistering release from San Diego powerhouse Mower runs the gamut of punk, hardcore, and metal.  Mower is led by two vocalists Chris Sheerin & Dominic Moscatello.  The duo work well together and effectively add another dimension to the music, as one has a traditional metal voice and the other a bluesy rasp.  The guitars are raw and in your face and deliver lots of crunch and the rhythm section is a force to be reckoned with.  As a unit they offer a mighty roar and are a vital force behind this raw and unbridled record.  Not For You opens with the hook heavy “American Psycho”.  There is some intense shit going on with the guitars in “Look Away,” “Broken Hands,” and “Undone”.   “The End” is a sludgy piece reminiscent of COC.  To show their diversity the boys even throw in a tastefully aggressive cover of “California Dreamin’”.   This album is definitely extreme, as Mower seethes with energy.  However, the boys know when to let the atmospheric nature of the song shine through.  If you’re craving rock that is heavy and not watered down pick up Not For You.  The album offers a diverse selection of material - some funky, some sludgy, and some deeply groove laden.  -NIN

New Skin (Cleopatra) 1/4

New Skin is an electro-goth wave pop act out of the UK that deserves a little attention.  The vocals are reminiscent of Siouxsie Sue, the sound is modern pop meets 80’s retro electro, and the beats are electrifying enough to light up any dance floor.  Middle Eastern textures add color to the landscape of the title track, “New Skin”.  “Inside of Me” delivers some solid danceable grooves.  The band shows its mellow side on “Red Roses”.  The aggressive “Hey Baby…So Sad” is balanced out by dark lush pop sensibilities.  There are a few bugs to be worked out but, overall, New Skin’s self titled effort is a hearty debut that is worth checking out. -NIN

Nine Black Alps - Everything Is (Interscope)

Nine Black Alps’ Everything Is, is a big dumb dirty rock ‘n’ roll record that bands used to make before they embellished stuff with texture and extraneous layers.  It picks the bones of Nirvana's corpse at about the same place The Vines left off.  Muted, somewhat gruff vocals are simple with no histrionics needed to get the point across.  It’s a record built to drink beer to in a sweaty club, or is just as happily at home in a muddy field.  It’s an enthusiastic thrash bleeding through burning Marshall stacks.  The first let up from the new grunge is the speedily picked acoustic "Behind Your Eyes," but it’s a short and urgent diversion before "Ironside’s" grinding riff knocks you flat to the floor.  As quickly as it began it’s over, and it just knows you are gonna hit play again.  If you want sophistication and style put on Arcade Fire’s ‘Funeral’; however, if on the other hand you just want to jump up and down repeatedly this will fit the bill nicely.  -Glenurse

P#9 – By the Wayside (Symptomatic Records) 1/2

This sounds very Dio-like.  You know, the melodic hard rock, high vocals interspaced with guitar solos.  Very 80’s.  Now, if 80’s retro-rock comes back (which seems on the brink!) then P#9 is positioned very well.  –J

Pan For Punks - A Steelpan Tribute To The Ramones (Tracy Thornton)  

Who would've thought this would work?  14 Ramones’ songs done on steelpan drums.  They don't sound much more like you'd expect from a street musician.  It’s basically a drum machine and a couple of random lyrics over the steelpan drum doing everything else.  The songs are so good that…well, it will work for everyone except for the purists.  It also is smart not to overstay its welcome (31 minutes seems like the perfect length) and the song selection stays to the 70’s hits.  Even the occasional re-work, like on "Pinhead," is mostly inspired, even if not perfect.  Metal drummer Tracy Thornton hit upon a real smart idea with this one that will be fun at a party, mix discs, or play lists.  -Repojay  NOTE from Tracy Thornton: Tracy wanted us to let everyone know that every note on the CD was played by Tracy, and not by a drum machine.  Way to go!  FYI!  -Ed.

Pharrell – In My Mind (Interscope / Star Trak Records)

Pharrell earned a reputation as a prolific producer as one half of the successful production/songwriting team The Neptunes, in addition to his music via N*E*R*D.  Along with partner Chad Hugo, Pharrell has expanded the boundaries of pop music.  After penning a number of platinum hits for other artist, Pharrell has taken the leap and gone solo.  His debut release, In My Mind, display his hip-hop & R&B personas.  Of course, the disc features a bevy of stars – a number of artists that Pharrell helped along the way stopped by to pay their respects.  The dancefloor ready “Can I Have it Like That” features the loveable Gwen Stefani.   Marching band drums and Slim Thug light up “Keep It Playa’’”.  Jay Z makes an appearance on the 80’s pop tinged “Young Girl”.  You also get Nelly on “Baby,” Kanye West on “Number One,” and Snoop Dogg on “That Girl”.  All hype aside, the album lacks the spark that makes a great record great.  -NIN

Plain White T’s – Every Second Counts (Hollywood) 1/2

Plain White T’s are an example of exactly what is wrong with music today, especially the so called “punk” music.  Every Second Counts an album for teens that are still trying to wean themselves off of Sesame Street.  Hell, I’m surprised this disc didn’t come stamped with Elmo’s Seal of Approval.  If the “Oh, Oh, Oh” intro of the lead track “Our Time Now” didn’t clue you in them I’m sure “Hate (I Really Don’t Like You)” with its sappy “Love, Love, Love, Love, Love, Love” chorus will.  The first time I heard that song on the radio I declared my hate for the band even though I had no idea who there were at the time.  Oh, and let’s not forget about the sappy commercial vomit that is “You and Me”.  And then there are lines like “You and me we should be making a memory” or songs like “Gimme a Chance,” which makes me ask, “What da hell do you twerps know about love?”  -NIN  

Powerman 5000 – Destroy What You Enjoy (DRT Entertainment) 1/2

Weeks before ‘Anyone for Doomsday’ was set to drop Spider pulled the plug.  Despite all the billboards and bus stop ads.  Spider claimed it sounded too much like past releases.  Not one for repeating himself he and the band went back into the studio.  Two years later Transform was quietly released.  It was the band’s last for Dreamworks.  Fast forward to 2006 and Powerman 5000 has emerged with a new label, new line-up, and a new album - Destroy What You Enjoy.  There is a chance that this album might grow on you – or not.  For starters it’s a bit over polished.  Also, in terms of structure and delivery the songs are the same.  It’s no secret that PM5K have never been innovative.  However, on occasion they’d release something great like “When World’s Collide”.   Well, you won’t find anything like that here.  On Destroy What You Enjoy PM5K merge hard rock with punk.  The title track has a KISS/Detroit rock ‘n’ roll feel to it.  PM5K channels the Sex Pistols on “Enemy ” and then go balls out on “Walking Disaster” and “Who Do You Think You Are”.  Not quite sure what they were thinking when they recorded the country tinged “Miss America”.  Oh well, at least this disc closes on a high note – with a live rendition of “Heroes and Villians”.   -NIN

Rennick – To The Skies (Rennick Music) ¼

Rennick’s music is the definition of underground DIY.  Composed by Rennick (one guy), performed, recorded, cut, distributed, etc. by him.  Check Rennick out on myspace for a taste of his tunes on this CD and a new song “Sex”.  At first, the songwriting, music and vocals all come off as so earnest it was hard to tell if he was going for Gothic or Broadway.  Once To the Skies settles in, it is very gothic/industrial lite with various in depth melodic songscapes.  His voice is gorgeous – reminds me a bit of Dave Gahan.  Rennick will do well catering to his audience, personally I’d like it if he found a partner in crime to reign in his vision once in a while.  -J

Robert Ziino - Plastic Loves Global Warming (Experimental Artists) 0

You know things could be bad when the record label is called "Experimental Artists".  Robert Ziino's disc isn't experimental.  It's just a headache.  Song titles like "Breast Eggplant" and "Camera Up Uranus" aren't experimental.  They're juvenile.  Making each song exactly 5 minutes long, which means abrupt endings, isn't experimental.  It's an idea in form that was only experimental when other artists did similar things years ago.  At what point, if someone else did it, does it cease to be experimental and become "been there done that"?  The noise (it ain't music, folks) is just random electronic bleatings that are mashed together in a formless stream of bile.  So many other people do experimental music better.  However, there are fewer discs that could be played at a loud volume that would cause the neighbors to run screaming faster.   -Repojay