Company "Parallel Time"

"Parallel Time" is off kilter. Dont get me wrong, I love this record. I would call it folk but as far as describing the music, that falls painfully short, more like new wave/punk performed as folk music or like someone stretching, trying to grab an object that is just out of reach while still emiting a beautful and ackward presence at the same time while watching it fall into their hand.

Yeah, sorry about that. The record is a joy to listen to but some people may find it a stretch.

Swan Lake "Beast Moans"

Spencer Krug (Wolf Parade, Sunset Rubdown and Frog Eyes), Dan Bejar (The New Pornographers and Destroyer) and Carey Mercer (Frog Eyes) are Swan Lake. Something of an Indi supergroup. This record is something of a mystery, with moments of feeling tossed about on a raging ocean and other more soothing times. Feeling somewhat like sitting in a resturaunt with everyone talking at once. I find myself drowning in the swirling sound that is Beast Moans.

Rocky Votolato "The Brag and Cuss"

This is, I believe, the 5th solo album by Rocky ( formerly of Waxwing) and finds itself leaning to a little more of a country vibe. That said, this is a wonderful introspective recording with themes of missing, drinking, fighting, driving etc. A road worthy record likely influenced by his heavy touring. With this record he just keeps building momentum yet manages to sound like a friend sitting in your livingroom having a chat.

Stolen Babies "There Be Squabbles Ahead "

WOW, From the opening screams of this record I was left reeling... Shifting around stylisticaly within grindcore, prog rock, circus/carousel music, Sousa marches, techno and ska yet keeping a dark GOTH (for lack of a better word) vibe thru out. At times it reminded me of Nitzer Ebb Meets Oingo Boingo on a bad day. This record is amazing! A metal band with tuba, accordion, etc. more suited to a modern version of "Something Wicked This Way Comes" or a dark London theatre than say Ozzfest. Absolutly brilliant.

The Cramps "Live at Napa State Mental Hospital" dvd

This is a nice 20ish minute document of early Cramps from 1978 tainted mainly by advertisements. That said, I do believe it is a must see for any fan of the Cramps, Southern Culture On The Skids, Reverend Horton Heat etc. Although, I don't think I will ever understand how on earth anyone would ever let the Cramps talk to someone in a mental institution let alone perform in one. this does however provide us with some interesting video for our consideration.