The following reviews are that of "Crazy John" and are his opinions of CD's submitted for review. If you would like to have your CD reviewed send a copy to: HBGOnline, ATTN: CD Reviews, PO Box 360, Steelton, PA 17113

CD Reviews provided by Crazy John

“Trois Chansons” a 3 track EP of Modern Rock from Until We Rise. This is a heavy modern rock EP, filled with strong lyrics, big hooks, and passionate vocals. The meaning behind the name Until We Rise stems from the positive association of picking yourself up and out of hard luck situations. Musically, the band veers away from singing about gloom and doom with these new songs and a new sound, they start a new journey, so pick up a copy and go on this journey with them.

“Sincerely” 12 tracks of goth punk metal from As Summer Dies. This CD Combins elements of goth, punk and metal to create something truly unique and enticing. As Summer Dies, hails from Buffalo N.Y and draws its sound from influences such as Joy Division, The Cure, The Deftones, Therapy, AFI, and HIM. A CD with a sound that forges ahead to make an unforgettable lasting impression worth picking up

“The History of Thuings to Come” a 4 track EP of Experimental Rock from Rogue Thief (Rocco Galiano). This is a one man show of alternative punk with an electronic drummer. Although in theory a three piece band a lead guitar, a rhythm guitar, and an electronic drummer at its heart it is a one-man show. This EP is generally aggressive, though not really loud...often melodic, though not really easy... grainy and raw, though smooth and flowing...angry yet calm. Pick up this EP and see how the vision of The Rogue Thief and yours of things to come compares.

“Outta All The Places In The World (where Do You Think I’m From)”, a 15 track rap mix tape from Woosaa Entertainment. This Mix tape has Mista Woosaa, IZM, Bonny and Klide, Hood, Rawlz, Tree, The Mystic, CJ, and many more on it all giving you their heart. All the tracks smoothly flow from one to the next under the production of Mista Woossa. With this mix tape Woosaa Entertainment is definitely on route to being the next hype and showing that their rap scene can rival that of New York and Atlanta.

“Scratching The Surface” a 14 track cd of Gothic rock from Deja Vudoo. Deja Vudoo’s sound is an original mixture of hard rock, gothic, and industrial music, that projects a raw aggressive energy that reaches out and grabs you in it’s talons. It is a heavy while insightful album that delves into the soul of man. If you like passionate, and powerful music pick up this debut album.

“In the Now” a 10-track cd of power pop rock from the Philly band Fooling April. Fooling April’s new cd is full of catchy melodic music with a good mix of humor that makes for a potent mix. “In the Now” is the title track of this album and its message is to remind people of why the now is all that we need. So get in touch with your now and give this album a listen.

“Dimensional Maze” 12 tracks of Retro Glam Party Music from The Metapuffs. The Metapuffs bring glam rock back in a new retro artsy sound that they call “retro-futro” since it is both classic and groundbreaking. This is a for fun album that tries to bring back the days of glam in a glitzy way. If you want to step in to their dream of a retro-future gat a copy and venture in.

“Drowning On Dry Land” 11 tracks of Funky Rock/Blues from Bushmaster. This cd is an inspiring collection of original Blues tunes with Rock, Funk, and Rap influences and a riveting blazing guitar style with high Hendrix content to it. Gary Brown and Bushmaster have actually taken the sounds of Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan and updated it into this century. This cd has one captivating blues song after the other that should keep you listening.

“Technology Baby” 10 tracks of Dance-Metal-Pop-Rock from The Programaddicts. The Programaddicts mix elements of synth pop, industrial rock and house beats to create a dance-rock all of their own. This cd melds the influences from bands such as New Order, Depeche Mode, The Smashing Pumpkins and Nine Inch Nails. This is a unique combination that you have got to see and hear to believe.

“The Lookies” 5 song EP of modern Progressive Hard Rock hybrid music from The Lookies. The Lookies are ready to rock you with their view of this country's desire for sex, violence, and greed. This EP is back to the basics, straight forward rock and roll. So if you need a rock fix inject your listening with some Lookies, it might become your new habit.

“Trois Chansons” 3 song EP of heavy modern rock from Until We Rise. Trois Chansons is French for “three songs” and this EP gives us three strong passionate songs with great lyrics, hooks, and vocals. Here you will hear a return to fun entertaining Rock and roll not the pain filled kind you hear so much of today. This EP proves Until We Rise has what it takes to be a force on our music scene

“Stripped” 11 tracks of adult contempary from Lori Citro. Lori Citro tells us stories of heartache, love and loneliness, a unique blend of pop, and folk. Ms. Citro is strong, and emotional with plenty of talent. This CD shows she has developed her own unique sound with songs that are a rootsy blend of many sensibilities This is Solid music, full of heart

“Truth Has Been Burned” 12 tracks of Gut ripping Loud-aggressive-hostile metal from The Hixon. This CD is an aggressive breed of straightforward flawless metal with superb pounding drumming and energetic guitar riffs, that is bursting with virility. Simply put, the Hixon is brutal crushing music, best listened to while eating something raw.

“Lost Paradise” 10 tracks with one hidden track of progressive Funk-Rock from the Real Be Easys This CD is full of loud, funky and a bit wild yet entrancing music with lively lyrics full of spirit and imagination. One thing you will learn from listening to the Real Be Easys is that they rock as hard as they funk. So if you are in the mood to Funk-Rock out pick this up and get to it!

”Hangups And Holdouts” 7 tracks of Bluesy Rock n' Roll from Flatbed Ford. Flatbed Ford is a Bluesy Rock n' Roll band with a modern edge. The band is fronted by Josh Longo’s bluesy powerful voice, Colin Milne’s high energy guitar, with Roy Nash and Skot Shaub’s solid rhythms. This album grabs you with it’s opening song "Deep Blue" and keeps you held there till the powerful closer "Revealed." If You love blues and rock "Hangups and Holdouts" will satisfy you in both directions. Keep an eye on these guys I believe even better is yet to come.

“Wake Up To The Sound” 8 tracks of folk rock from Stranger's Vibe. Stranger's Vibe's harmonies and rhythms makes you feel like the rock and folk artists of yesterday are in the music trying to communication with you from beyond, Stranger’s Vibe are one of the most captivating new artists in this genre on the music scene. If you like this genre pick a copy up and from the first song “Geezer” to the last song “Shotgun or Outside” you will be entertained.

“Like you” 13 tracks of metal jazz groove rock from Freak Juice. Freak Juice is a band that is fusing jazz, hip-hop, blues and metal rock into a new, and fresh sound. Tori Ruffin, the bands founder is also currently playing with MORRIS DAY & THE TIME and punk rock’s FISHBONE. When I talked to Tori, he told me to tell everyone to make sure they support independent music and also check out the bands initial offerings of "Corporate Dick" and "Juicemaker". When you pick up “Like You” you will learn it has no filler, it's just hard diving music that gets your juices flowing.

"Fearless" 10 tracks of adult contemporary from Sherri Mullen. Expressive/powerful vocals, finely crafted lyrics and melodies, intricate musical arrangements, and delicate layered harmonies breathe a bold new life into Sherri Mullen's most recent full length CD. This CD will be the one that defines Mullen's career and catapults her to the next level. Not only is she ready to take on the singer/songwriter world with her acoustic based brand of music that sits nicely in the Americana, adult contemporary, and crossover country genres...but she is truly FEARLESS and will take that message to the masses with this new release.

“Freshly Squeezed” 5 tracks of alternative blues infused rock from Tangello Blue. Freshly Squeezed is one Part Jimi Hendrix, one part Pearl Jam, fused with the songwriting prowess of Bob Dylan. Tangello Blue is a new band worth keeping an eye on that will definitely grab your attention. This is a fresh sounding CD that once listened to will continue to run through your mind!

“United $tate$ of Terrorism” 21 tracks of artistic/political expressive rap from Mal H-Vock. This cd, covers many topics from George Bush, Dick Cheyney, Food, and a typical horror-core track thrown in for good measure (chop it like it's hot). Mal H-Vock's cd does not hesitate to push the envelope. The musical genres of different tracks goes from dance, to club, to chopped and screwed, west coast, and old school hip hop along with some metal, industrial, and even some acoustic thrown in for good measure. Overall it is a tasty treat with H-Vock giving a big middle finger toward the DC politics of our time. If you are in the mood to stick it to the man pick this up and take a listen!

“It Happens” 16 tracks of comedy rap from Filth. Filth covers topics of living on couches, being medicated, and even the topic of suicide. This album can be described as being refreshing, humorous, and down right wrong at times. The high humor factor on this cd makes up for any other short comings it might have. Many can relate to the songs on this cd such as "I got my #$%^ #$%ed by a fat @#$%", and "I hit a parked car taking my drivers test, and I passed". Take a listen and see if you can relate?

“The Next Level” 9 tracks of jazz based R&B from Amaryllis Santiago. Amaryllis Santiago’s singing is a sure ear pleaser, solid, smooth, with a sexy jazz based sound. Each song on the cd is absolutely beautiful with her original music always showing off her versatility. Take a listen to this album and let your imagination flow.

“Meathook Lover” 17 tracks of psychobilly from The Tombstone Brawlers. The Tombstone Brawlers are the Bastards of American psychobilly and have been kicking ass together since the mid 90s. You can hear the influences of such as Johnny Burnette, Link Wray, and the Stiff Little Fingers in their music. The group has the great true rockabilly / psychobilly sound of the big upright bass being single, double, and triple slapped with frantic lead and rhythm guitars plus pounding drums. Weather you love them or hate them after you listen you will remember their catchy and enjoyable B-horror movie type lyrics. Listen and prepare to have fun, unless you are already a zombie!

“Do Not Listen” 22 tracks of creative sounds from Weapon Shop. Weapon Shop specializes in making good music from bad sounds and is quoted as saying from listening “Deathrays will explode in your mind and you will love it.” Very interesting and creative album, while also being odd and in a zone of its own. Basically all 22 tracks are sounds creatively put together in a way to make a new different type of music. Check this one out on your own to fully understand their new direction in sound and music.

“A Bit O' The Blues” 9 tracks of bluesy country rock from Kurt Benit. Kurt Benit’s Songs are made of strong lyrics in a classic rock blues country cross over style. Kurt’s works are greatly influenced by The Beatles, The Stones, The Who, Clapton, Yes and Motown. “A bit o’ the Blues.” Is part of Kurt’s initial 4 CD release set, which covers rock, country, blues and spiritual music. Check out this first ambitious CD and if you like it go out and get the rest.

’Enchanted Evening’ 13 tracks of exotic psychedelic rock from Plastron. Mix psychedelic rock and wild surf music with some punk pop then stand on your head and you have Plastron the original group from Philadelphia. This band is so hard to compare to anyone else out there at this time, it’s the kind of music that gets to you, slowly taking control and before you know it you are transported to another reality.

”Into The Flames”13 tracks of powerful high energy retro flavored modern Rock from Stone Soul Foundation. Stone Soul Foundation is a heavy blues soul driven rock band with groove guitars, a rhythm section, and a vocalist soulfully singing and shouting with a crazed R&B/1970s approach. They are influenced by such bands as, Metallica, The Temptations, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sound Garden, and Bad Company. This is a band that knows how to party and lift your spirits high.

”Some Assembly Required” 12 track of folk rock from Bill Monaghan. Bill Monaghan’s debut album is based in piano, guitar, and rich with his wide vocal range. Bill’s songs tell stories with intricately arranged music about life, love, traveling, heartache, and loss. This album taps into an uplifting, heartfelt energy and creates an almost endless supply of easy listening pleasure.

”The Mailman's Daughter” 6 track EP of piano driven music from Adrienne Hamilton. Adrienne’s music runs all the way from subdued ballets, to fantastic grooves. Her bold sexy voice and her unorthodox arrangements make her music very original. It is the subtle uniqueness in Adrienne Hamilton’s music that fascinates you and keeps you listening.

“Evergreen File” the 6 track self-titled EP. Evergreen File is a rock-based band, influenced by many other styles and beats. Many of the songs have a jazzy feel with a strong bass beat and emotional lyrics. This is a young band with the seed of a great sound in them; given time they could grow into a band to be reckoned with.

“Red Hot” a 4 track EP of Melodic New Classic Rock from Independent recording artists the Ivory Tower Project. The Ivory Tower Project is a new breed of 'old school' rockers that take you down memory lane back to the glory days of 80's style Classic Rock. Their sound reminds you of the music of bands like Asia, Genesis and Survivor. Red Hot, single handedly seeks to revive the pop/rock supergroup sound with a nostalgia that fans of the 80’s will love. Simply this is great New Music for those who love the sound of Classic Rock.

“Take a Ride” 12 tacks of southern soul sound from George Soule. George has been a song writer for many years writing songs for southern artists such as Brook Benton, Candi Station, and Percy Sledge, but this is his first solo album. His warm voice ranges from champagne to bittersweet chocolate, while his presentation is an inviting mix of tenderness and hard sharp grit. In this southern style of music Mr. Soule is a talent that is years overdue for recognition.

“Never Forgotten” a 5 track EP of all original energy-embodied rock from On Faith Alone. On Faith Alone uses their equation of energy, melody, and passion to reach out to the listeners with solace, truth, and inspiration thru music. Their music is greatly influenced by Smashing Pumpkins, Thrice, Senses Fail, Bayside, Funeral for a Friend, and Rufio. Take a listen and see if you believe as I do that their persistence will lead to success.

“Unruley Cooley” 7 tracks of modern funk from Unruley Cooley. Unruley Cooley was founded by Cheryl the original guitarist from the famed female eighties band, Klymaxx known for the hits: “Meeting In The Ladies Room”, and “The Men All Pause”. This is a band of prolific female musicians performing original compositions with Funky rhythmic movements and a rock edge. There’s no nonsense in UNRULEY COOLEY’s music, a funky band to be reckoned with!

“Vanilla” 14 tracks of power pop from the band Vanilla. Vanilla’s sound is a progressive pop style, which mixes the elements and influences from bands such as the Jellyfish, XTC, Elvis Costello, the Wondermints, the Beatles and even Pink Floyd. This is an album that is full of hooks, harmonies, and tight playing. Over all a smart, catchy, album that rewards the listener.

”Blood Soaked World” 13 tracks of Death Rock from the band Chadwick. Chadwick is up to evil mischief again and following up their debut album Suicide Sunrise with a vengeance in their vision of a blood soaked world. A spacey, dark, and psychedelic work that compares well with My Bloody Valentine's 1991 Loveless album. This album can be darkly-enlightening for the politically impaired and entertaining for all.

“ Lights Out” the 4 track self titled EP from the authentic rock band Lights Out. Lights Out has a great musical progression, and a raw gruffness; that is a true asset to their sound. The EP, with 4 tracks, never lags and is a much faster listen than the total recorded time would indicate. Take a listen and see if this sampling satisfies you or leaves you wanting more?

“Cherry Suede” 10 tracks of modern rock from Cherry Suede. Cherry Suede’s sound is a fun and progressive rock that reminds you of the 80's but without the spandex. Their songs are powered by aggressive instrumentation that grabs the high energy of music and captures the listener, making them a part of the music. In a time when most rock is so heavy and dark, Cherry Suede has found a unique mix, combining the power of rock with the excitement of pop.

"The Light That Burns..." the 10 track debut album from the independent rock band Ledbetter Heights. Ledbetter Heights style is an enticing blend of Rock, Soul, and Funk graced with passionate lyrics and immense musicianship that has both class and style. This album invites everyone to listen to what real rock music is all about!

“Feel it Coming” 11 tracks of easy rock from Robert M. Sanders. Robert's music is a style that is fused from rock and easy listening together in an acoustic style. His music is in the same genre as Edwin McCain, and Marc Cohn, but with a more pop background. If you would like a smooth rock experience then you will enjoy Robert M. Sanders.

“Far From Home” 9 tracks of Americana blues from Angelo M. Angelo has an amazing propensity to play guitar with an intricate finger-style. This debut effort delivers a strikingly personal, yet universally appealing original collection of finger-picked Americana songs. Listen and you'll be sure to enjoy the talents of this gifted artist.

“Annalisa” 20 tracks of fringe pop from Annalisa. Annalisa's sexy, dynamic singing is both captivating and refreshing, blending some bluegrass, blues and folk styles into present day pop. She has the incredible vocal ability to be soft and breathy and sultry at the same time. Annalisa and her album will leave you holding your breath and thinking "delicious".

“Transposition” 13 tracks of electrifying rock from The Seventh Season. Beginning in Russia in 1972, The Seventh Season has now been reborn in America as a captivating father and son run rock band. This album has explosive energy, with fresh guitar solos, pure drumbeats, and interesting bass lines. Their old hits are on this album such as “Pirate Song” and “Commando”, while also having their more modern new sounds like “Apart From Here” and “Ocean of Time”. This is music you can listen to and enjoy its addictive charisma.

“Blast-Off for Kicksville” 10 tracks of experimental rock and roll from Officer Roseland. Officer Roseland says they have been protecting and serving rock music since 2000 by trying to rescue it from the evil clutches of corporate hijackers and the assembly line of soulless mass production. Drawing their influences from such sources as Mr. Bungle, Talking Heads, Rush, Frank Zappa, Ween, and NoMeansNo. Officer Roseland fuses everything and anything to put together an aggressive and original sound desperately needed in our generic radio play targeted time.

“Ashes” 12 tracks of indie/folk rock from The Damsels. The Damsels have some powerful down and dirty bluesy rock with cool vocals and groovy tunes. The band has brought together influences from Melissa Etheridge, Susan Tedeschi, Janis Joplin, The Indigo Girls, The Pretenders, Sheryl Crow, Tracy Chapman and Bonnie Raitt and put them altogether into their own eclectic sound. After listening to this album you will remember the Damsels as a band with a very fun catchy groove.

“Yo, It’s Christmas” 17 dynamic tracks, of sophisticated contemporary Holiday music arranged/performed by HeatherSong. The album has influences from hiphop, rock, heavy metal, jazz, reggae, funk, blues, gospel and electronic. This CD has innovative classic Christmas updates that are lyrically and musically respectful while highly appealing to a variety of people. Revised songs such as “Winter Wonderland”, “Feliz Navidad”, “Deck the Halls”, and “Emmauel” can be revisited in a new fashion with this CD. Listen and you will love YO, IT'S CHRISTMAS!, because it's a holiday celebration!

"A Dreaded Xmas" 12 tracks of Edgy, Humor for the Xmas Season by Those Dreaded Gnats! Those Dreaded Gnats are Harry Kopy and George Simonovich two seasoned and witty musicians who’ve worked together for years. All but one of the songs are Gnat originals, they’ve done a reggae remake of the classic “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer” that is hilarious! If you're depressed over the holidays, then this is what you need to get out of that funk.

“Look Without Seeing” 10 tracks of modern rock from the Philly based band HEAD. HEAD, is an impressive band, hitting with a strong aggressive sound and synchronized beats, topped off with powerful yet beautiful vocals. The band is made up of vocalist Lexi Greene, guitar player Michael Zimney, bass player Mark Greene and keyboardist Tori Ryzner. This album shows the band’s ability to tap into the world’s rock energy, amplify it, and transfer it back to anyone listening. Pick up this album and take a listen I believe you will find it one of the most intriguing bands out there.

“S.O.S.” a 6 track EP of modern alternative rock with a punk hook from the band SOS. What sets SOS apart from other bands is the songs are the real stars, SOS doesn't have just one person in the spotlight they all share the stage. S.O.S.’s retro-rock influences help create a sound that is uniquely dynamic, original, with an old school charm, and yet is very much Rock N Roll. If you find yourself searching for rock music, packed with catchy grooves that does not insult you, then, “S.O.S” by S.O.S may be just what you need.

“Visits” 8 tracks of virtuoso jazz from Eldad Tarmu, and Cengiz Yaltkaya. Smooth modern jazz that's done in a style that certainly has some classic references, and which comes off well in the stripped-down sound of this two man group. Eldad and Cengiz’s maturity, gifts and talent speaks extensively in the language of jazz. These songs were written as a source of stimulation for the musical conversation, that the authors invite you to ease drop on.

“Hung Like Infants” 24 tracks of original Reggae/Ska music from Fink's Constant. The boys are back with their Caribbean island sound this time offering us two full cds of amazing live music. The band's blend of reggae and ska sets them apart from the rest of the music scene. Influenced by artists such as Bob Marley, and Shaggy, Fink's Constant's horn section, upbeat lyrics, habit of breaking into jams, and just plain fun attitude make them a great live act to listen to or see. This CD already has Big Jim’s vote for Best Local CD next year!!!

“ How it all Played Out” 9 tracks from the alternative/indie band The April Skies. Long known for their sense of mood and texture, with unique keyboards, rich acoustics, edgy guitar riffs, and driving rhythms – they have returned to some of their roots to deliver 9 new songs that are sure to reach music fans of any style. The April Skies still make their 80s & 90s influences very obvious. Great songs, great hooks, and an original sound that can be appreciated by all types of music lovers. Buy this release and see what you think.

“Ultrasound” 11 tracks of angry rock / Metal from Anthrophobia. Anthrophobia is a hard working, uncompromising, original band, their driving force is of a band still fighting to make unique, aggressive, exciting music that a true metal fan can believe in. A powerful, heavy, metal, storm and seasoned songwriting, that is evident in all their songs shows an unparalleled uniqueness, that will once again position Anthrophobia as pioneers.

“Awake as Ghosts” 17 tracks of pop/rock from the band Naked Stranger. A Rock and Roll band with so much fun you'll wish you were there with them. Naked Stranger is independent rock, while still keeping their sound commercial. Their songs have catchy lyrics, and great musicianship that keeps you listening. This is an album that just might get you listening for more of them down the road.

“Sakred Realm” a 4 track EP of shredded rock/metal from Sakred Realm. Sakred Realm is a solid band with a strong core and a front man whose vocal range is amazing. Their sound is so broad that it would be hard to place them in only one musical genre. This is one band that you will not fully comprehend until you see them. In the meantime, pick up a copy of Sakred Realm's latest EP, to start understanding what their fans know!

“The Rose In The Boxcar” 18 tracks of Acoustic Original Folk-rock from Carol Martini. This CD is an emotional piece of work dedicated to Ms. Martini’s dad who is the rose in the boxcar. This is Ms. Martini’s fourth CD and her musical warm rapport is always sure to win over a listener or live audience. The extensive topic repertoire and wide variety of subject matter ensure that no two songs ever sound alike. If you enjoy pleasant acoustic music try this out for your listening pleasure.

“Rise” 12 tracks of dark electronic/punk/metal from Mankind Is Obsolete, also known as MKIO. This female-fronted rock band has an approach that blends heavy passion, rhythms and rich vocals to create expressive observations of the every day world. MKIO creates music with conviction, and intensity, which I believe can be felt by the listener, give them a try and see what you think.

“Straight Up Bar Songs” 20 tracks of unique bar music by Piano Max. A Bar themed experience. This CD is full of songs with humor that brings a bar atmosphere to you no matter where you are. A wide variety of music styles Country, Rock, piano bar, broad way musical, waltz, and blues went into the making of this album. This CD will get you in the bar mood with songs like “Chug it up” and “I’m drunk”. This CD is sure to be a winner even the spirit of Elvis helps out on one song.

“Dias” 17 tracks of indie pop by Adam Dias. You can hear a broad and varied range of influences in this album covering motown, country, reggae, hip hop, rock, and funk. With all this mixing of styles Dias provides the listeners with a different style of indie pop music all his own. This is an album written by a person that loves music for people that love music.

“Hard Time” 12 tracks of electric soul from Naeemah. Naeemah, who has studied both classical and jazz music at Temple University does a seamless and effortless fusion of R&B, jazz and rock on this album. Naeemah has been compared to artists such as Alanis Morissette, Jeff Buckley, and Alicia Keys. This is the type of music that gets the fans singing along and tells you that Naeemah is working toward creating her own music destiny.

“Campfire Core” 15 tracks from The Gorgonites the most rockin’ punk metal comedy act to ever grace a Central PA stage. If you pick up this record, you’ll want to make sure you are careful whom you play it around. The Gorgonites get a little blue and truly earn the explicit contents label that graces the album’s cover. While their no-holds-barred approach with songs like “Papa No” & “Sweetest Taboo” may be too much for some, those with a taste for the tasteless will find unending enjoyment in this disc.

“Two Wrongs” 14 tracks of refreshing sounds of original Reggae/Ska music from Fink’s Constant. Their style is a fusion of world beat, reggae, ska, jazz, and rock that when put together is so enjoyable your feet want to dance. When listening you can tell this is a band that plays for the love of music while striving to set themselves apart musically from other local bands. If you are tired of hearing the same old thing give Fink’s Constant a try.

“Elmamoore” 14 tracks of Adventure-Rock a form of Modern Experimental Rock from A Utopian Skyline. A Utopian Skyline brings together a union of alternative, progressive and independent rock, while keeping their sound commercial and unique. They have been compared to Cambria, and Pink Floyd. These guys are quick and fiercely energetic, playing moving rock, give them a listen.

“Holis” 10 tracks of profound pop/rock from the band Holis. Their music has been compared to the likes of Staind, Live and 3 Doors Down. Holis ‘s songs have incredibly catchy lyrics, and an amazing musicianship that keeps you listening. This is an album that just might get you hooked.

“Den of Thieves” 15 tracks from the Canadian pop rock group The Trews. The Trews have a heavy hitting rock sound mixed with melodic undertones which is very tight and connected. The Trews technical proficiency and raw devotion are noticeable thru out the album. This album was produced by Jack Douglas who has worked with such names as Aerosmith, and John Lennon. Take a listen and find out what has made them one of Canada’s most recognized rock bands.

“This Little Thing Called Life” 11 emotional tracks from Genevieve. This CD blends elements of folk, pop, country and soul. Genevieve’s vocals are clear, delicate and passionate while reflecting intelligence and caring to the listener. The song "My Albatross" best showcases the strength of her vocals. Great music that produces a wonderful mood.

“Spread It On Thick” a 10 track reworked collection of comic spoof music from Dave Blackledge. This is a CD full of Great Comedy music based on reality, and always loaded with heavy sarcasm. Some of my favorites on this album are: “Double PMS Blues”, “I Used To Be An Asshole Too”, and “Your Butt's Too Fat To Dance Like That”. If you are having a bad day put this on it will get you smiling if not rolling on the floor.

“Metropolis” a 4 track EP from the pop-punk-rock band St. Diesalone. An aggressive EP with a matter of fact tone. The four tracks on this EP “ Take A Bow”, “The Reason I smoke Cigarettes”, “Every things Coming up Millhouse”, and “Metropolis” are a great introduction to this bands style. St. Diesalone has a catchy raw gruffness; that is an asset to their sound.

“Digging Up The Past For Up and Coming Days” 9 tracks of blues-rock jam from The Anthony Lattanze Band. Incorporating influences such as Van Morrison, M. Ward and Bright Eyes this CD projects a timeless spirit. The extensive use of horns, pedal steel, organ, mandolin, piano, and Latin percussion sets the group apart from the ordinary rock band. The fun and energy of the Anthony Lattanze Band will capture you.

“Trojan Horse” 6 tracks of notable rock from Bridges And A Bottle. This group has a cross over sound that could play on rock or mainstream radio. Songs “18” and “One Step Away” are ones you do not want to miss. A deeply moving EP with uniquely captivating rock music

“Hang On” 9 tracks of post-modern rock from Waking State. A CD stuffed with moody, volatile music, full of depth and focus. Each song consistently raises the bar from the last. Waking State is a polished band that cannot be ignored.

“The Mixtape” 19 tracks of urban mixed rap from Rokman /Mr. Reading PA. This man has some serious skills. These rap mixes and songs are on point. Mr. Reading has good taste in his mixing and they come through clean and crisp. If urban sound is your thing you will love this CD.

“Should Sky Fall” 5 tracks from the power punk/pop quartet of Straitlaced. This EP has a staggering range of qualities with smooth and sing-able tunes. It reflects a combination of flowing guitars and vocal harmonies, in a style similar to Jimmy Eat World. This EP is definitely effortless refreshing fun.

“Evil Skies” 14 tracks from the blues influenced jam band called Slaughterhouse Blues. This CD is not traditional Chicago, Delta, or any other type of traditional blues, but distinctly their own brand of Slaughterhouse Blues. It is evident that they enjoy playing and this enjoyment spills out to all listening.

“Until when we are ghosts” 11 tracks of modern folk acoustic from William Fitzsimmons. Mr. Fitzsimmons has an utterly personal gentle and originally powerfully haunting vocal style, which could be compared in ways to Sam Beam and Sufjan Stevens. This CD affectivity takes you on a life journey, reminding us that lives are filled with both joy and suffering.

“Saturated” 6 track EP of fresh, loose, raw, modern, yet vintage rock, the debut release by HotWingJones, formerly the BlueZers. Saturated is an eclectic little collection of songs: Jambalaya Stew, a pseudo-jazz-blues-funk-rock mélange, Be My World, an easy country-rock tune, Atlantic City, shades of Springsteen, Elegant Martini , a raucous rocker, Remember, a 50s ballad, and Senorita Blue insired by Carlos Santana. The arrangements are dynamic, and the production flavors the CD with a retro sound. At times, the performances are a bit loose, but that plays into its carefree rock and roll vibe. Overall, this is a very solid and at times exceptional debut offering.

“Tuesday Afternoon” 8 tracks of next generation rock from Show’in Tell. Tuesday Afternoon their debut CD has a powerful offering of original songs with influences of artists from Joplin to Kravitz and Motley Crue. They blend intense drumming, unforgettable vocals and pounding riffs. This CD is an ambitious effort from a show stopping up-and-coming band.

“Mask” 12 tracks of kickin rock tunes from Come Dionysus. This band has found an innovative sound with true passion, full of pounding guitar, direct lyrics, and hard beats. They have a rhythmic rage that seems influenced by Jim Morrison and Kurt Cobain. An aggressive collection of songs that grab ya.

“Bare” 7 tracks of emotionally revealing songs from the soul of Kate Bowen. Ms. Bowen’s songs are well crafted and intelligent with deep raw feelings that translates her passion thru her voice to our ears. An over all memorable emotional experience for the listener.

"Circle Around” 11 tracks of delicate soul and rock from Singer/songwriters and identical twins, Kate and Kacey Coppola. Kate and Kacey’s heavenly melodies, southing lyrics, and classical voices are the foundation of their music. Their voices blend in perfect harmony and tone and the listener cannot tell where, when and if one starts or the other stops. A very pleasant and compelling CD.

“Redeeming Faith” 16 tracks of aggressive storytelling rap from 7th Layer. 7th Layer has created a interesting but dangerous playground out of their musical fantasies and actually have some interesting ideas to take it to new levels. This CD leaves you impressed, it’s serious while also being nutty, fun, and a bit bizarre.

“Seal the Deal” 10 tracks of raw ultra-energy hard rock-meets punk from the band The Last Vegas. The Last Vegas has a gritty sound with lots of guitar, driving drums, and over the top vocals. You can hear the influences of the blues, and bands like The Stooges, Guns N Roses, Motley Crue and The Trashmen in their songs. If you like this and I think you will check out their 2004's debut CD 'Lick 'Em and Leave'Em' .

“14 Horses for Che” 11 post progressive pop rock fusion tracks from The Andy Browne Trio. The Trio’s sound is a post-modern Americana atmospheric rock combined with a nice blend of acoustic guitar, with interesting lyrics that can be compared to Radiohead, The Who, Elvis Costello, David Bowie, and Buster Keaton. Listening to The Andy Browne trio creates pcycodelic images within your mind listen and see for yourself.  

“Butt Shined Scares” 8 heavy riff-laden tracks from the band Cyphilis.(Now known as Spit Can) This CD has a unique pounding sonic style with the band having elements of Pantera, Clutch, Prong, Hatebreed and System Of A Down. A loud aggressive CD that is a kick in the face, prepare to be beaten from the first track “Spit Can” all the way through to the last track “Butt Shined Scares”.

"Front Lines" 8 tracks of super motivating Afro beat power from the band Aphrodesia. This revved up CD features six original songs, plus a cover of the Stiff Pickl Orchestra's "Mr. President" and a remake of Fela Kuti's classic "No Agreement" all with a great lineup of guest performers. If you are looking for an interestingly different sound and beat this is the place to look.

“The Origin” 4 tracks of original rock madness from Lotus Blue. Each of the four songs on this EP “I”, “ Last Hour”, “Dirty Tiles”, and “Illusions” offers something just a little different. Lotus Blues mad rock style keeps the flame of rock alive while also giving you something new. If you're after rock with feeling this tuneful, pacey collection should hit the spot.

“Unspoken” 10 tracks of easy acoustic rock with a classical folk twist by Glenn Kricher. Glenn Kricher does it all on this CD as writer/guitarist/bassist/percussion programmer/producer with his influences from such as Michael Hedges, Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santana, Counting Crows, and Cake to name a few. Only the Louisiana blues song “Cajun Kenny” has additional musicians play on it. A genre crossing pleasant listening album that could be the back drop music for almost any event or home get together.

“Year Long Disaster” 5 tracks of pure punchy rock from the band Year Long Disaster. These guys have forced more music into this five-track EP than many bands put in a full length CD. There is plenty of foot stomping, heavy crunching guitars and thudding bass in these songs that they might even get your grandmother up and moving. The highlight of the CD is “Victory at sea”, a catchy, and driving ZZ Top-like tune that sits you up straight. Year Long Disaster is impressive to listen to.

“Love and War” 13 throbbing alternative rock tracks from Illuminati. Alternative rock at it’s best with a punk, funk, grunge sound that pushes the boundaries with diversity. Being Crazy John my favorite off the album of course is the song “Crazy”, but I also greatly liked “Lie Lie Lie”, which makes you ponder what is going on in this day and age! Very unique and enjoyable if you do not get it at first listen again and you will realize its depth!

“This Is How I Recover” 12 tracks of rock- post-punk with a touch of blues from Carol Bui. Dark emotional lyrics coarse through the music of this album as she pushes out intimate melodic vocals. Anyone in search of good old-fashioned songwriting should look into Bui’s notable tunes “Hell Banknotes,” “Manic Depression” and all the others on this album. Keep an eye on this one.

“Maria Forgotten” the 7 track Indie-rock self-titled EP from the band Maria Forgotten. Led singer Ryan Gottshall’s highflying vocals and the smooth guitar sounds glide on top of a strong rhythm and bottom line. Maria Forgotten's emotionally explosive sound is a mix of indie, emo, post-melodic and experimental-core that will grab your attention and not let go. Some of the album high-lites are “My Privilege”, “Miss Opportunity”, & “Unreachable”.

“ We never sleep Detective Agency” 6 dangerously Prolific tracks of punch-up rock from the band Pistola Amore. This band and their music is bad-ass but with a sense of humor. The topics of the songs seem to pull from life experiences of the band members ranging from “ Supermodel” to “Cold Mutilation” and “Killing Spree”. If I was not enjoying it so much I might be scared!!

“Decade Deluxe” 22 tracks of ferocious true rock n' roll from the Martini Bros. This album takes us on a wild and enjoyable ride with many twists and turns. From songs “Get Up” to “Up all Nite” this album transforms the rockabilly style into a furious form of rock n' roll. Listen to the album and go “Cross Country” on this wild ride with them!

"Pornos and Razorblades" 13 future electric rock classics from the Hierosonic's. Songs that pound the listener while still being beautiful. The lyrics are like dark poetry, and are well thought out.  The songs have a great musical progression, and this is evident in their song “From Yesterday.” The topics of the songs such as “American’s America”, “God”, and “Gift Pig” can be very thought provoking. This is a CD that will continue to run through my head for sometime!

“No Bones about it” 12 powerful, driving, tracks with interestingly rhyming lyrics from Paddywak. This CD has the deep-throated pipes you expect from a heavyweight rock band. A nice mix from fast hard, such as the song “He’s Got Your Number” to meaningful and slower like “Dear Dad”. This band is sponsored by Jagermeister nothing else really needs to be said!

"Happily Never After" 13 tracks from the pop-punk-rock quartet PTM or also know as the Poptart Monkeys. An assortment of songs telling you about the ins and outs of life; a high-energy album that keeps you on the edge. “Valerie” is one of the high lights of the album. The CD also has special computer features so you can view special, never before seen videos off the web of the band.

“Parade” Grantham Road ’s 11-track album, takes you on a trip from start to finish. The album is packed with pop-alt-country songs that are smooth with just the right amount of grittiness. Led guitarist & vocalist Flint Zeigler, plays each song with fire. Bassist Jason Shaffer and drummer Steve Geyer give a life beat, to the songs "Shallow" and "Wide Awake." The depth of "I Won't Fight," and of "Martin Myers" make them highlights of the album.

“Bed Head On Picture Day” 5 soulful and heartfelt tracks with a special surprise sixth song from the band Sugarcoat. A well put together and developed CD with enjoyable melodic tones, low end and beats. Songs “Fake” and “Treasure in the Sky” will stick in your mind and have you singing them to yourself.

“The Veil of Summer” 9 power to-the-point metal tracks from Winterfell that draws influences from such bands as Manowar, Demons & Wizards, Iced Earth and Sonata Arctica. A moody metal release that will satisfy most metal fans.

”Models of Virtue “ 4 heavy and raw tracks from Evil Beaver. A punishing heavy EP aggressive as a wild dog, as a matter of fact one of the dance friendly songs is “ I wanna be your Dog”. "Believin Deceivin," is the catchiest track, very metallic while also being grungy. If you like punishing raw music you will love this!

The Drama Club’s “Greatest Hits” 7 robust Rock tracks, which includes one cover song. The Drama Club’s sound reminds you of Breaking Benjamin and Fall Out Boy, but with an intriguingly bratty attitude which carries the listener through all the songs such as their “The Callout” to the Eurhythmic’s “Here Comes the Rain”.

“Carolina” 6 power metal tracks from Seven Revolutions. Aggressive driving songs that pound the listener. Carolina has the deep heavyweight sound you expect from harder metal music. A hard hitting high-energy album that will keep you on the edge.

“Arrogance & Ignorance” 8 rock/screamo authentic tracks from the Hazelton based band Outtaline. Track One, "Understand" sets the tone for what Outtaline is all about, the perfect introduction. "Murders Me" follows with a similar rocking shot. The disc closes with "Undone", a cleansing. Vocally, Outtaline has a raw gruffness; that is a true asset to their sound. You get the feeling these guys really enjoy what they're doing.

CD Reviews provided by Crazy John

Bo Bim Go.Get.Got.

There is no way on the face of this good green earth you cover 15 songs with this much range in a teeny tiny space of words. That’s not to say that Go.Get.Got. is all over the place or that Bo Bim doesn’t have an overall intense musical vibe that is consistent throughout the CD. It’s just to say that nearly all these 15 songs are distinct, separate, and worthy of individual comment.

But that ain’t gonna happen.

A few will do, and we’ll take ‘em in order.

“Big Bad Gun”, the opener, is as sonic as something created by classic rockers Cream. With a tidal wave of guitar lushness combined with an old fashioned vocal duel by singers Tara Gordon and Eddie Okum, “Gun” is roiling in a badass vocal taunting that has few, if any, parallels in modern rock.

Follow that with “Northern Hills”. If you get past the deadly drums of Robby Bones and the bullet-proof bass of Tony Garber, you’re flat into the hooky Creedence-y weird world of “the bullfrog man”. This tune is an instant mental worm. There’s even a minor transition bit in there that would have fit in on the old classic (Jefferson Airplane’s) album Surrealistic Pillow. From bizarre theme to astounding instrumentation, it’s unforgettable.

Next is the unsettling coupling of Suzanne Vega with PJ Harvey/L7 in the Tara Gordon-led “Spelling Bee”. This tune is sharp enough to rip you a new one and leave you with nothing left to wipe
.
And so it goes. Each of the songs on Go.Get.Got. could withstand a long analysis. Overall, with a lot of hat tips to a lot of types of rock, this is what post-punk coulda-shoulda-woulda been if it was in the hands of musicians as qualified as the members of Bo Bim.

And a hat tip should go to producer/recorder/mixer (and engineer?) Jason Rubal at Seventh Wave Studio. Noted for his eclectic style, Rubal managed to emphasize the hardcore, clean and simple rock of Bo Bim. It had to be tempting to trying and layer some ‘lushness’ into the CD and play down some of the intensity Bo Bim brought to the studio. Fortunately, Rubal’s got a good ear, and he didn’t try to improve- he just clarified- a great (but hard to pigeon-hole in a couple dozen words) sound. - CD Review Guy

Darcie Miner The Fragile e.p.

She ain’t a phony and she ain’t a social butterfly so if you want to meet Darcie Miner, you’re left with her songs. As she says on the rollicking, rolling “Anything, Anyone, Anymore”, “I ain’t ever been good at letting people in…” but “[I] wrote enough songs, I’m ready to give…”.

What Miner offers up on The Fragile is a risky (in that it is 4 gorgeously lush studio recordings paired with 3 rather raw live tracks which feature her often ass-kicking stage-stealing vocals) and comprehensive look at the range of her material.

The studio material is easily embraced by anyone seeking vocal painting paired with a solid singer-songwriter spin of touching soulful self-revelation (without sounding teen-age-y and pathetic).

Darcie Miner has the magic touch of finding the universal themes in her navel-gazing and the ability to relate both the intimate and the general in her songs. Hear her scramble from soaring cries to bluesy bombast to hushed confessionals and you’ll know what she’s about.

The 3 live cuts on this EP run right through the dial on your typical fan: low, medium, and high. The high is a timeless rendition of her FM radio ‘hit’ “One Big Line to the Top of the Sky”. A tremendous song… and this is an instant classic version of it. Reason enough all by itself to pick up this CD.

In its totality, The Fragile EP is a stellar example of what a singer-songwriter (with nothing but a magnificent voice, some good songs, and some very supportive friends) can produce on the indie market. The graphics, printing, production and mix are all quality here. The first live track can be a ‘challenge’, but who knows, that may have been the point.

Summed up, this is a great way to meet Darcie Miner. And if you want to get to know her better, her prior releases will tell you everything you need to know. (And if that still isn’t enough- go ahead, see her live. Just don’t expect her to flit about). - CD Review Guy

Zelazowa - Rest Easy

Zelazowa’s Rest Easy is an ultimate “angst rock” CD which is as filled with progressive hard rock sounds as it is with ponderous, moody and haunting tones. Full with slower progressions and replete with dirge metal, the band can frequently soar with encrusted flailings that howl like a wounded animal on a windswept plain.

Rest Easy is not an easy (although at 10 songs/ 33 minutes it is brief) listen. The band employs lyrical poetic density and is unafraid to use non-rock imagery to paint emotional tones. It’ll take more than a casual listen to get their message(s).

Fortunately, the music is routinely compelling and sometimes addictive. Whether you prefer a song slowly spiraling down in misery or sharply soaring into an energetic fireball, you’ll find something in your flavor on Rest Easy.

If any criticism could be leveled at this CD it might be that the dynamic elements do not always ‘pop’ out of the mix. Instruments and vocals are sometimes left a bit ‘washy’ so that internal song transitions are occasionally so understated as to almost be invisible. It’s a flaw but it is only occasional and by no means fatal to this otherwise outstanding CD. - CD Review Guy

Gracie - Evolved

They’re really rockin’ in the great big city of Philadelphia. But the quality of that rock is, sometimes, a little dubious.

This ten-song CD, which begins with the song “Are You Feeling Me?” and ends with “Why?” (to which I reply, ‘not really’, and ‘I was wondering that too’) has captured the sounds of classic rock without stamping the individual identity of the band on the songs. It’s much like the background rock played in your largest shopping venues… catchy and non-intrusive.

Nothing on Evolved actually annoyed me. The recording and mixing are good. The band does a professional job with the material. However, on the other hand, none of the tracks was inspirational either. Nothing groundbreaking or singular - musically or lyrically- occurs on Evolved.

If you’re heading to Philly for your rock-music fix, make sure Gracie is the opening (mood-setting) act and not the main course. - CD Review Guy

8th Online- Self-Titled EP

If you’re a fan of Wilkes-Barre’s Breaking Benjamin there’s no reason not to be a fan of Allentown’s 8th Online. I half expected the opening track on this EP, “bled thru” to mutate into Benjamin’s “So Cold”… the two bands can sound that similar.

Like BB (whom 8th has opened for- I suspect in the days before Breaking Benjamin was national), 8th Online is wall-to-wall larger-than-life riffs, occasional beautiful melodies severed with authentic vocal slashes, and plenty of pure rock sound.

Aside from one track (“deception”, which sounds like it has some engineering challenges), all 6 of the tunes here are exceptional any way you want to dissect them. If you’re looking for an outstanding addition to your alt.rock/heavy rock/nu-metal collection, this CD is exactly the ticket. - CD Review Guy

Grantham Road- A No Dead-End Music Sampler

Does everything old become new again? Or, as Grantham Road says on the opening number of this sampler, do “some things never change”? For Grantham Road, a band with some long-term durability, it seems the answer is – both, and they realize it with assurance and confidence on the opener “Only You” and the follow-up “Come Back Home”. Fans of laid-back southern rock (without a touch of ‘modern’ country), will find a lot of reasons to toss back a bottle of good ole eye-popper with these tunes.

Though band members have been supplanted in Grantham Road over time the mainstays- Flint Zeigler and Steve Geyer- have hung in there with the band. With the addition of guitarist Jason Shaffer they’ve mixed a strong, straight-ahead rock sound with catchy southern-influenced pop that will click with any fan of The Allman Brothers, The Outlaws, Skynerd or even Neil Young.

Combining masterful rock engineering with songs containing a bit of lyrical innovation that is a shade sharper than anything country has thought of in decades, the current Grantham Road concept presents a fused revival of ‘down home’ and taunt musical attack.

The future might be now. And if you want a little taste, Grantham Road might have the flava. - CD Review Guy

Condition K- Self –Titled

Believe it or not: I used some fairly sophisticated computer techniques to find out what U2, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, The Doors, Bob Marley and Queen have in common (answer- the Harrisburg-based band Condition K). The only surprise to me was that Jimmy Hendrix, The Who, and Tool are not as commonly related to Condition K.

That might sound like a pretty rarified and imposing bunch of rock artists to be matched with but Condition K’s initial release doesn’t shrink from the comparisons. Song for song, from the ‘intro’- which could go heads up with a Pink Floyd innovation, to “A Long Way Down” -which could twist note for note with Led Zeppelin’s pathology, to “Suicide Love” (as formidable as any Stones ass-kicker), to “Wooden Daughter”- which is as bittersweet as a Beatles Sgt. Pepper’s creation, Condition K slaps out meaty, beaty, big & bouncy substantial songs.

The CD Condition K takes the genre of creative and ballsy rock ‘n roll by force. You might know all these sounds but you haven’t heard them packaged and reinvigorated like this in your lifetime. Purely derivative but never a repetition of the original masters of rock, Condition K has captured several classic power-rock formulations that the masters wish they would have pursued the first time around.

This CD should come back with a ‘rock satisfaction money-back guarantee’ - I doubt the band would ever have to refund penny one. - CD Review Guy

The Julie Schreiber Band- Landing

How much you wanna bet? When primitive peoples hit the end of a well-worn trail, they turned around and walked back home. The Julie Schreiber Band, unlike primitive peoples, takes a different tack…plow forward and take risks.

The ‘old’ Julie Schreiber Band was a well-balanced- sonically as well as thematically- psychologically-oriented pop band that was driven by witty lyrics combined with catchy musical arrangements. The ‘new’ Julie Schreiber Band, with the songs on Landing, veers into a slightly more edgy hard-rocking and quirky unknown land.

With only six songs on Landing, the band manages a hat-tip to Alanis Morisette-land (“Landing”), spends a greasy head-banger-ball evening with CCR (“Controlled”), and bites into a bit of breathless decayed urban America as lead singer Schreiber corner-street-kittens herself off to any bidder in “Take Me In”.

The hallmark of Landing is its intelligence laced with a more direct musical approach rather than relying on its catchy and poppy underpinnings. Schreiber has apparently found a conscious voice in her vocal work for this CD. Rather than solely utilizing range and power to express herself she has offered distinctive interpretations that stamp these several songs as unique and uniquely her own. It may seem a little more primitive than the bands’ previous efforts but the Julie Schreiber Band certainly isn’t retreating anywhere on any musical fronts. - CD Review Guy

The Underwater - Lungs

Two years ago a little band from York, Pa released a debut EP entitled, "Bleed Me Blue". With dreams of becoming a main stage act, they brought their music to the masses. At this point, they were playing in the basement of the Whitaker Center as part of Millenium Music Conference 2003. One year later they were headlining the main stage at the Crowne Plaza as part of The Millenium Music Conference 2004. Fast forward to June 2005 and the Underwater are once again playing main stage of the MMC. One week prior to this show they will be hosting a cd release party to celebrate the release of their brand new EP titled "Lungs". This disc picks up where "Bleed Me Blue" left off. Vocalist Dan Thomas confesses lost love and heartbreak on "BMB" without expressing the feel of a truly broken heart. On "Lungs" it has finally broken and towards the end a little light and possible healing process become evident. From pleading ("Breathing", "Losing Me") to questioning ("Where Love Should Li e") and finally to understanding ("Silver"). "This heart is tired of breaking, and I really don't mind waiting" from "Where Love Should Lie" is a confession from Dan that shows his willingness to accept.. All the lyrics are tied together by Brandon Deroche's and Matt Holme's beautiful guitar work. Their guitars seem to make love as Aaron Hodgdon's bass lines pound on the door. "Losing Me" and "Where Love Should Lie" are both songs that put 90% of music you hear on radio these days to complete shame. "Breathing" starts you off on the journey through the Underwater's psyche which leads you to places beyond excellence. I dare you to listen to this cd and try not to sing along. "Losing Me" picks up perfectly with a drum intro, feeding into Dan's cry of "Love, my love can you hear me?". Total fullfillment will engulf you as you listen to the combination of Dan's somber and moving vocals attached perfectly with the band's aggressive, yet subtle, performance. I've always described them as "romantic aggression". On this disc it becomes even more evident, as they blast through the heavier "Silver". Dan's romantic lyrics in songs such as "Bring Me You" are once again top notch, and would find most girls at his feet. "Where Love Should Lie" includes some of the most telling lyrics on the disc. "Is true love even possible? For me it seems improbable". His doubt is lifted by the chorus and seems to soar as he professes "I wont be broken anymore". From start to finish this cd will guide you as you explore your every emotion. - Nickless MD

Red Room - Self-Titled 

This CD could be an ad-man’s wet dream, “…made for a woman…but strong enough for a man”.

Lyrically, you pretty much can’t get through any of the l1 songs without stumbling over a heart, “you took my heart/threw it down and ripped it apart” is pretty representative, but musically Red Room nails down a solid, at times nearly explosive, rock.

Offensive lineman that solid rock band sound with the vox of Jackie Cassatt, a captivating and powerful vocalist who can nail you in the solar plexus like someone coming out of a three point stance, and this CD comes off as a dynamic listen from beginning to end.

If you’re into some earnest, emotional and poetic songs- or you just want some creative yet non-frilly rock- Red Room gives you that twofer. The recording and mixing back up that offer and give a chance for a clean listen to whatever element most trips your taste. - CD Review Guy

July for Kings - Nostalgia (EP)

My dearly departed, and oddly wry, daddy only gave me two truisms: don’t eat the soylent green (it’s people!), and shut up when you’ve got nothing but BS. Good advice.

July for Kings seems to be one of those harmonic, riffing, emotion-filled, musically adept and polished, melodic, serious and poetic rock bands. Heavy emphasis on everything in that line except “rock band”.

Imagine, if you will, simmering vocals married to unrequited rock tension (build up, build up, but never rip). Say, Rob Thomas vocals and the body of most Creed songs. If that sounds like a marriage made in heaven to you, July for Kings does that vision very well with each and every one of the seven songs on Nostalgia. If Live’s “I Alone” and Hoobastank’s “The Reason” flood through your brain and keep you lying awake most nights, Nostalgia will give you permanent insomnia.

And these guys seem like the real deal as far as being dedicated to their craft and putting their music out. Maybe they need to be seen live to translate for me.

Unlike Hannibal Lector, I have no real developed taste for people or fine music. For me to harshly critique either is, ultimately, BS. So I’m shutting up. - CD Review Guy

The April Skies - flood

I’m sick and tired of all the old clichés. Can’t someone bring on some new clichés? If you’ve got the same feeling, check out The April Skies’ release flood.

Clichés, at least in songs, aren’t such a bad thing. They are those big fat hooks in the music or the lyrics that make the song spiral like a virus into your brain so there is no hope of getting it to disappear.

The CD flood is saturated with new rock/pop clichés. Both musically and lyrically. Some of flood’s hooks are great; all are good. The CD, with ten tracks, never lags and is a much faster listen than the total recorded time would indicate. flood makes it easy to turn off the radio if you’re searching for catchy listening with a hint of rock heft.

In part, flood is a great listen because all the basics are covered- professional recording, production, engineering, and mixing. Even the layout/graphics (some sort of red cellular worm-thing) which I found odd, but when I tossed flood into a pile of CD’s for various people, it was always the one they picked up first. Then they read it and were interested. I don’t know marketing but I know when I see marketing work.

The April Skies’ flood just clicks on all levels. It’s an old cliché that nothing is luckier than hard work. flood shows a lot of hard work and The April Skies deserve to get lucky with this release. - CD Review Guy

Roundtable Presents - Round One 

If you’re fascinated by the stuff that can float down a swollen river then Round One might appeal to you.

Put together by Roundtable Presents- Harrisburg’s premier music co-operative- the 11 songs by 11 artists (excluding an unidentified bonus track which is somehow reminiscent of listening to the sound track of a NASCAR race), is broadly jam band and acoustic performer oriented.

It appears that Roundtable artists submitted non-thematic works and the result is, therefore, diverse. It’s like watching a swollen river: there goes a huge yellow micro bus (nine minutes of majestic jam ‘n loop by Aaron Daniel Gaul), whoa- look at that ratty old trunk (guitarist Mike Banks with a blues turned-to-scat tune), and how long can that balloon float without getting creamed? (Milkshake Jones with its own easy listening four minutes of airy pop).

The fun in watching swollen rivers is always in seeing stuff you’re tempted to jump in after. Round One does have some tempting stuff. An elaborate, riotous, horn-honking song entitled (somewhat misleadingly) “Ska” by Fink’s Constant which is pure gold (if gold could float). Singer Sara B. Simpson has a bewitching lyrical piece “Obtuse” which shimmers with mild vocal torrents. The April Skies’ pop-ish “Crutch” is like seeing an unscratched cigarette boat just floating out there. And herbie’s “Inside” is to good organic jam music what seeing an entire floating casino going by is to river watchers.

Round One looks good too. Nice graphics and design with plenty of info on the musicians and groups involved. If your tastes incline toward the surprising and diverse then this CD may be your cup of tea. You may experience a few sound and editing discomforts; otherwise, it’s not an unpleasant companion for a day of watching the river flow. - CD Review Guy

Grant Wilson--Untitled Four-song Demo

Tape John Mayer’s vocals over Jason Mraz’s/Chuck Prophet’s more substantial and catchy material and you’ve at least got a concept of what Grant Wilson from Lewistown is all about.

When you’re not old enough to get into a bar and you title a song “Bitches and 40s”, you’d better either have a massive pair of testosterone globes or else a slightly pitched look on the world. I suspect Wilson has no abnormal growths and the song itself, “Bitches and 40s”, is actually a sort of groovin’, word-beat exploration of how Wilson takes himself (but obviously not his songs) a little lightly. It’s a very unassuming and disarming attitude for a guy who’s obviously got quite a bit a talent. Similar nonchalance is also displayed on the third song on this CD, “Uh huh Alright”.

If you’ve been glomming onto the recent Bright Eyes mania, “a work in progress” might catch your ear. It’s got a few good blues harp riffs and catches Wilson displaying some advanced wordsmithery skill. The final track “streets of Baltimore” is a pretty straight forward ballad with at least one very good poetic twist. It’s probably the most instantly accessible song on the CD.

I ran this release by my Indian immigrant friend Shkirman to get a definitive opinion. He wrote (and I quote), “Really all it is healthy. I listen and enjoy. Though itself such I do not write. Call on!!! At me absolutely fresh tracks. Good luck!!!”

It’s so true- and I couldn’t have said it- or said it any better myself. - CD Review Guy

Jared Campbell--Where It All Begins

Sometimes pearls get tossed before swine. In this production I’ll take on the role of the porkster and Where It All Begins gets to be the jewelry.

How do I know this CD isn’t some kinda costume jewelry knock off? Because it just fairly reeks of quality. From packaging to production to mixing to performance- it’s all polished. The musicianship, a bit of folk-country rock, is heavily Badlees-inspired and as catchy as any Badlees release. Finally, Jared Campbell has a strong, clear emotional voice that has a deft light touch that should be compelling and captivating.

So what’s wrong with this CD? Probably nothing. The six songs come in at that magical radio-ready listening range, 3:32 to 3:47 (except for the ‘anthem-ic’ song “Found Again” which clocks in at 3:59 due in part to an excerpt from the hymn/song “Amazing Grace”). The content is lightly Christian with a ‘could have fooled me- that was Christian music?’ relational vibe so that you’re not feeling like you’re being preached at.

But, somehow for me, Where It All Begins lacks zest. Take that tasty glass of orange juice and strain it too much and blam-o it’s yuck-o and not tasty. Same OJ- different reaction.

Putting Where It All Begins before me is like putting the best filet in town in front of a vegetarian. It’s like a clear starry night to a blind man. It’s like paying for dancing lessons for Ashlee Simpson. Like I said, putting this CD in front of me is like putting pearls before a swine. - CD Review Guy

Emily’s Toybox -- ETB Live 

Screw MTV. I want my ETB.

Emily’s Toybox’ ETB Live to be more exact.

I’ve never been an ETB ‘true believer’, especially when it came to their recorded material. Since 1997, when ETB released its first CD, I Never Get My Way, I’ve always felt there was a flaw (though not the same flaws) in each release. ETB Live is, however, (damn near) flawless.

The opener, “Dead Alive”, is bawls to the walls, wrap your head with duct-tape to keep it from ‘a-splodin’, full-tilt, roll your family jewels out of their rock-boxes, kick-ass power rock. Compared to that, “Your Girlfriend is Ugly”, is a (few) holds-barred bare-knuckle brawler where lyricist Mike Wise gets to fully display his evil genius for hooky semi-offensive songwriting. Next up is “Before”, which’ll send you back to the closet for more duct tape to protect your head ala “Dead Alive”.

That kind of pacing on ETB Live is flawless. It’s all fast- but it knows the difference between doing 180 and 110 and knows how to make the ride a memorable trip.

Mixed and mastered by Wise and bass player Leon Karpovich, these guys are expert at what they are doing. Except for a bit of tonal mud on “Your Girlfriend is Ugly”, ETB Live captures nothing but pristine performances end-to-end.

And those songs. ETB has built up more than enough material for a full length live CD and this one has nothing but winners on it. In fact a lot of top shelf material didn’t make the cut. But if you know ETB, you’ll be happy to know that classics like “Bionic”, “Back of the Bus”, and “Road Rage” all appear here in all their raw sonic glory.

If ETB Live doesn’t trip your Toybox trigger, well, that’s life. As ETB might say, that’s “F**king Cool”. I suspect they can live with it. Heck, maybe they’ll even dedicate “Dick” just to you. - CD Review Guy 

Bridges and a Bottle—(self-titled) 

In heaven, you just know that the late Mister Rodgers is planning that special subdivision in the magic kingdom. That chunk of neighborhood for passionate up-tempo rockers that specialize in mood, gritty vocal virtuosity, and intricately well-written songs. “See… there’s Bob Seger’s house, and that crib belongs to Eddie Vedder and the Pearl Jam boys, and that property over there was just optioned to a new central Pa. band…Bridges and a Bottle, isn’t it Mr. McFeely?”

The songs on the self-titled Bridges and a Bottle certainly should pay for BaaB’s down payment on the land. The ten tunes on the CD are rooted in essentially durable rock sounds while deriving their real strength from the homegrown and down-home sincerity of their poetic power. Whether delivering more self-doubt than swagger (“Powerplay”, “18”) or cocksure attitude (“One Step Away”, “Pistol”) BaaB provides rock that is familiar on first hearing, swelling in ways not unexpected, and flawlessly performed to inevitable resolutions.

In many ways these songs hum along like new tires on the Turnpike. That ain’t a bad thing. But it can get too near to being too comfortable a thing. A little too holistic a thing; at least for rock and roll.

See Seger’s house over there- it’s all bleeding blue ‘cause he’s got that suicidal saxophone thing going on. And Vedder’s place? The broken glass is from shredding a few too many violent late night vocals. What’s going to be the distinguishing characteristic of the BaaB’s house?

Fortunately, the Smith Brothers (Justin and Adam, the heart of BaaB) have more than enough raw talent to figure that out. They’ve already grown an audience with these solid, polished, and forceful songs … and that audience should only get bigger as they grow as a band.

With a couple bright sparks of creativity, and a duplication of the lavishly perfected execution displayed on this CD, it’ll be time for Bridges and a Bottle to call in the contractor to start the grading for that new house. - CD Review Guy 

Anthrophobia - Magnetic 

Let’s get the bad stuff out of the way. Frank Phobia, singer, lyric writer and driving force behind Anthrophobia is not a natural singer. There’s room to pan his vocal work on technique and skill if you’re a critic. I’m not and find his vocals plenty crunchy with smarts making up for any defects. But you’ll have to decide for yourself.

Otherwise, Magnetic is pretty effing incredible. Ultra-heavy and acidly raw at times- “The Calming Effects of Skydiving” comes to mind- or woozier forceful mosh music with a hangover mix of metal and garage-rock elements- check out “Adding Insults to Injuries (I didn’t Even Know I Had)”- this CD is a heavy, heady, trance-inducing classic. It’s tough to find a bad note on this release, the lyrics are gripping, and not a one of the 16 songs is filler.

Athrophobia has a legendary rep as a live band. Clearly, with Magnetic, they show they’ve got the material to bring to the show. As a bonus, they tack on the five tracks which were released as The Hard by Design EP.

Magnetic is slick (as in professional) from production to design to graphics to you name it. If you could only pick up one local metal CD for the year 2005, this would be the one you’d need to get. - CD Review Guy 

Wiskerbisket - Something New 

It shouldn’t be surprising that a band that makes a living doing other folks’ tunes should have learned one hell of a lot in the process. Somehow it usually is though. On the five originals on Something New, Wiskerbisket shows its learned a lot and proves the band knows how to put together some damned good music.

“Just Like” has a bit of southern fried Guns and Roses feel to it that is straight-forwardly earnest. “Free”, “Killer” and “Alright” prove that the bisket is really a rock band at heart. From some mainstream metal roots, the band proves they’ve really caught on to the songcraft ideas of timing, pacing, tone, and diversity within a song. Rounding out the originals is “Skank”, a long piece that has elements of Ozzy-like original metal, cool guitar rips, alternating soft and Goth vocals and even some Bon Jovi influences. “Skank” shows that Wiskerbisket knows how to identify a great sound and effortlessly mix it in with other sounds that others haven’t thought of. And they do it very, very well.

Rounding out Something New are two covers “Rodeo Mud” and an inbreed version of the “Dukes of Hazzard” tune. These songs capture what a fun, irreverent band Wiskerbisket can be but, frankly, should have been left off this CD or included in an EP. They are both well done tunes but they have no connection to the five originals in style or content.

Taken as a whole, Something New conveys a lot of natural musical realness and puts on a great show of the creative insight of Wiskerbisket. A surprisingly good, although it shouldn’t be from a band with this much experience, and well done CD. - CD Review Guy 

The April Skies - Breath (EP)

Take any old school Hooters sound rinsed by a Bryan Adams song for a template and you’ve got a good starting understanding for the 5 mid- to up-tempo songs on this EP. The opener “Breathe” has a softly thunderous, harmonic horsemen riding like pop overlords feel. “Here comes the Rush” is, not unexpectedly, slightly more energetic and urgent. “Beautiful Girl” goes a little further a field tossing in ample jingly guitars and unexpected vocal intonations by lead vocalist Jake Crawford.

The Breath EP doesn’t lack diversity but it does come in small doses. There is much in the way of continuity of sound from song to song and the group has a distinct overall sound that is as readily identifiable as it is unique. Fortunately, it’s a mature, catchy and laid-back sound that doesn’t wear thin.

If anything, The April Skies are a little too thick and ‘washy’ on Breath. It’s easy to see their grander vision and sweeping scope but sometimes difficult to take it all in. It doesn’t rise to the level of clutter, but any more layering might have threatened to capsize this musical boat.

The Breath EP is a must have if you’ve seen the band. It captures a complete sense of how musically comprehensive The April Skies are. If you haven’t seen them, word has it that a complete studio-quality CD is set for release in very early ’05. Get that CD or catch them live first. It’s the best way to appreciate the richness The April Skies has to offer. - CD Review Guy 

herbie - High Impact 

Setting the tone, herbie opens up High Impact with “Fudge”, a live song with obvious enough Grateful Dead influences that it could be sliced into Blues for Allah and it would stand up well in the comparison.

With its blast of ringing guitars, an oddly country-rock melody, simple vocals and surprisingly focused lyrics, another tune “Cool Ethan”, rips off in some other totally energetic direction.

And so it goes on this seven-song forty-minute wonder. The energy on High Impact bristles. The pacing never drags its feet. Nobody ever seems tired and the chemistry is pure musicianship.

This material is so strong it could have been recorded on a tin box, replayed only during high school football games over grainy speakers, and it would still shine brilliantly. Fortunately, the recording is pretty good and the experimental elements get their full due.

High Impact is soaked in great songs (although “Brand New”, at 12 minutes, is going to require your focus and patience). Perhaps the choicest jam on the CD, “Zeke”, has almost classical scope in the control of the tension but somehow gets all meshed with this tex-mex salsa that allows for as