Tag: Reviews

  • Laura Luna Castillo – Foklsonomies (Cassette, 2019)

    Laura Luna Castillo – Foklsonomies (Cassette, 2019)

    No.5170

    GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker, 10/28/23:

    “Folksonomies” by Laura Luna Castillo is a mesmerizing sonic journey that captivates listeners right from the first track, “I See But Say Nothing”. Released in 2019, this album is a testament to Castillo’s ability to weave intricate narratives through her music, creating an immersive listening experience that is as thought-provoking as it is enjoyable.

    Each track on “Folksonomies” feels like a distinct character in Castillo’s story, with its own unique personality and voice. This is most evident in tracks like “Ataris Bellum”, where the music explores themes of regret, mourning, longing, and loss. The haunting melody and poignant instrumentation perfectly capture the complex emotions associated with these themes.

    The album also includes lighter moments, such as “Without Dust and Shadow”, which maintains a hopeful aura amidst the introspective soundscape. It serves as a gentle reminder of the beauty in life, making the journey worthwhile.

    Castillo’s use of synthesizer and 8-bit bloops, combined with stringed instruments and nature recordings, results in a richly textured sound that keeps the listener engaged throughout. The varying moods and themes explored in the album create a dynamic listening experience, reflecting Castillo’s intentional and confident approach to her music.

    “Folksonomies” is not just an album; it’s a narrative brought to life through music. Castillo’s compositions grow, evolve, and expand, building towards a larger, more meaningful whole. This makes the album more than just a collection of tracks; it’s a cohesive artistic expression that resonates with listeners long after the music stops. It is a beautifully crafted album that showcases Laura Luna Castillo’s talent as a composer. It’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music that tells a story and evokes deep emotions.

    Media: Cassette.

    Bandcamp URL: https://cudighirecords.bandcamp.com/album/folksonomies

  • Katie Haegele – Electronic Voice Phenomenon (Digital, 2023)

    Katie Haegele – Electronic Voice Phenomenon (Digital, 2023)

    #5168

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:

    Released to accompany the book Spiritbox by Katie Haegele Composed by Katie Haegele on a Korg Gadget for Nintendo Switch Recorded live at the East Falls Zine Reading Room Katie Haegele – Korg Gadget, Ethereal Dialpad Joe Carlough – Vocals, Ribbon Synth, Cassette Looping, Spiritbox

    GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker, 10/28/23:

    “Electronic Voice Phenomenon” by Katie Haegele is a captivating musical experience that perfectly complements her book, “Spiritbox”. Released in 2023, this digital album showcases Haegele’s innovative use of the Korg Gadget for Nintendo Switch, creating an immersive soundscape that transports listeners to another dimension.

    The album was recorded live at the East Falls Zine Reading Room, lending an intimate, raw quality to the music. Each track is a testament to Haegele’s skill as a composer and her ability to create evocative soundscapes using the Korg Gadget and Ethereal Dialpad. The inclusion of Joe Carlough’s vocals, ribbon synth, cassette looping, and spiritbox further enhance the album’s ethereal ambiance.

    “Electronic Voice Phenomenon” is more than just an album; it’s a sonic journey that mirrors the themes and narratives explored in “Spiritbox”. As you listen, you can almost feel the presence of the characters and the emotions they experience. This seamless integration of literature and music makes the album a unique artistic achievement.

    Haegele’s compositions are richly textured, with layers of sound that ebb and flow, creating a dynamic listening experience. At times haunting, at others uplifting, the music is always engaging, drawing the listener in and holding their attention from start to finish.

    “Electronic Voice Phenomenon” is a remarkable work of art that showcases Katie Haegele’s talent as a composer. It’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates innovative, thought-provoking music. Whether you’re a fan of Haegele’s writing or new to her work, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

    Media: Digital.

    Visit Displaced Snail

    Bandcamp URL: https://displacedsnail.bandcamp.com/album/electronic-voice-phenomenon

  • Caddy – Detours and Dead Ends Vol. 1 (CD, 2021)

    Caddy – Detours and Dead Ends Vol. 1 (CD, 2021)

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:

    Caddy is the brainchild of Norway’s Tomas Dahl. His latest offering (and third release on the Kool Kat label), “Detours and Dead Ends Vol. 1”, is a collection of late 70’s, early 80’s power pop and new wave covers. Tomas explains how he made it a sport finding the best, yet most obscure tracks – “I’ve spent many many MANY hours digging and searching. I loved it. It became a big part of the project. How can I find even more underground and unknown songs?” He truly uncovered some great gems, and then covered them to perfection – injecting a fresh, new perspective that results in him truly owning the songs! And, as a bonus, he gives you an excuse to dive into a Youtube rabbit hole looking for the originals. Track listing: “Walking On The Roof” (Sgt. Arms, 1982), “Heart of Stone” (SVT, 1981), “If I Call Your Name” (Junior Campbell, 1971), “Best Thing I Ever Did” (The Invaders, 1979), “Cost of Love” (The Cretones, 1980), “Violent Days” (Screaming Sneakers, 1982), “Not The Way It Seems” (Gary Charlson,1978), “Don’t Wait Till Tomorrow” (Robin Lane & The Chartbusters, 1980), “Mark My Words” (Chrissy, 1980) and “No Money” (The Freshies,1980)

    GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker, 10/28/2023:

    “Detours and Dead Ends Vol. 1” by Caddy is a delightful journey into the nostalgic realms of late 70’s and early 80’s power pop and new wave music. The album, which is the brainchild of Norway’s Tomas Dahl, is a collection of carefully curated and expertly covered obscure tracks that shine under his fresh interpretation.

    The album is a testament to Dahl’s dedication to unearthing lesser-known gems from the past. Each track has been meticulously researched, chosen, and covered, resulting in an album that feels both familiar and fresh. From “Walking On The Roof” (Sgt. Arms, 1982) to “No Money” (The Freshies,1980), Dahl’s passion for these songs is evident in every note.

    What sets “Detours and Dead Ends Vol. 1” apart is not just the song selection but also Dahl’s ability to reimagine them. While maintaining the essence of the originals, he injects his unique style into each track, making them his own. The result is a collection of covers that feel both nostalgic and contemporary, appealing to both fans of the original tracks and new listeners alike.

    Moreover, the album serves as a starting point for listeners to dive into the world of these obscure tracks, encouraging them to seek out the originals and discover more about the artists who inspired Dahl. This aspect adds an interactive element to the album, making it more than just a collection of songs.

    “Detours and Dead Ends Vol. 1” is a compelling tribute to the power pop and new wave music of the late 70’s and early 80’s. It showcases Tomas Dahl’s incredible talent as a musician and his deep appreciation for these often overlooked tracks. A must-listen for any music lover looking for a fresh take on classic tunes.

    Media: CD.

    Visit Kool Kat Musik

    buy this CD at Caddy’s preferred online retailer

    Media: CD.

  • Anton Mobin & Harold Schellinx – EC Split 20 (Digital, 2020)

    Anton Mobin & Harold Schellinx – EC Split 20 (Digital, 2020)

    #5147

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:

    These 24 ‘lullabies for a sick world’ were composed and recorded (in the months August, September and October of this so dramatic year 2020) by Anton Mobin and Harold Schellinx. They were made in pairs, using what they call the ‘intersection principle’, a working method that resulted in these 2 x 12 highly personal compositions, all in the respective authors very own style, that, however, pairwise have a ‘melodic’ overlap -their intersection- and the exact same duration.

    Think of these intersections as the spines of a species of two-winged creatures, where each wing corresponds to one of the two corresponding pieces. But as the creature may flap and fold its wings, there is, as a consequence a third dimension: you may collapse each pair into a third one, the mix or union of the two … For more information see the pdf file that comes with the digital download, or visit harsmedia.com/SoundBlog/Archief/00858.php

    GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

    “EC Split 20” by Anton Mobin & Harold Schellinx is an experimental sonic journey that immerses the listener in an intricate world of soundscapes. Released in 2020, the duo presents 24 compositions, referred to as ‘lullabies for a sick world’, reflecting the turbulent times they were created in.

    The album’s construction employs what Mobin and Schellinx call the ‘intersection principle’, a unique method where each pair of tracks shares a melodic overlap and identical duration. This results in a fascinating interplay between the two pieces, akin to a creature flapping its wings, as described by the artists themselves.

    The beauty of “EC Split 20” lies in its distinctiveness. Each track carries the unmistakable imprint of its respective author, yet the shared ‘melodic’ overlap creates a sense of cohesion that binds the album together. The result is a collection of compositions that are deeply personal yet interconnected, creating a listening experience that is both intimate and expansive.

    Furthermore, the possibility of collapsing each pair into a third track adds an additional layer of depth to the album. This innovative approach encourages active participation from the listener, allowing for a unique, personalized interpretation of the music.

    “EC Split 20” is a testament to the creative prowess of Anton Mobin & Harold Schellinx. Their innovative approach to composition and their ability to create profound connections between their individual works make this album a remarkable piece of art. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the boundaries of sound and melody.

    Media: Digital.

    Visit Hal McGee / HalTapes / Electronic Cottage

    Bandcamp URL: https://halmcgee.bandcamp.com/album/ec-split-20

  • Cookie – Swan Song (Goodbye Bandcamp)(Digital, 2023)

    Cookie – Swan Song (Goodbye Bandcamp)(Digital, 2023)

    GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker, :

    “Swan Song (Goodbye Bandcamp)” by Cookie is a poignant tribute that beautifully encapsulates the sentiments expressed in Zoe Minikes’s article “Goodbye, Bandcamp”. The song serves as an aural homage to Bandcamp, the platform that has been instrumental for so many artists, including Cookie herself.

    The song is laden with emotion, reflecting the author’s own feelings towards the significant changes at Bandcamp. The melody is gentle yet impactful, mirroring the sentiment of Minikes’s plea to Songtradr to treat the Bandcamp team and its artist and label community with care and respect.

    Cookie’s vocals are heartfelt and sincere, conveying a sense of gratitude and nostalgia. The lyrics capture the essence of the author’s experience working at Bandcamp, and the positive impact it had on her. They also subtly echo the underlying uncertainty about the platform’s future under new ownership.

    What makes this tribute song stand out is its authenticity. It’s clear that “Swan Song (Goodbye Bandcamp)” is not just a song, but a heartfelt message from an artist who has directly benefited from the platform. It’s a testament to the strong bond between Bandcamp and its community, and a reminder of the platform’s significance in the independent music scene.

    “Swan Song (Goodbye Bandcamp)” by Cookie is a touching tribute that resonates deeply with those familiar with Bandcamp’s journey. It’s a beautiful synthesis of music and sentiment, making it not just a song, but a piece of Bandcamp’s legacy.

    Source: “Goodbye, Bandcamp” by Zoe Minikes

    Media: Digital.

    Bandcamp URL: https://cookiebaby.bandcamp.com/track/swan-song-goodbye-bandcamp

  • The Mop Tops – Running Out Of Time (CD, 2023)

    The Mop Tops – Running Out Of Time (CD, 2023)

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:

    Previously a download-only release, “Running Out Of Time”, the fourth and final album (and Kool Kat label debut) from Swedish garage poppers The Mop Tops, is full of strong melodies, chiming guitars and wonderfully catchy pop gems. From the Tom Petty-ish opener “She’s The One” to the sing-along beauty of “When I Was Young”. Other highlights include “Strange Weather”, “I Want You” and the title track. “The compositions, and the performance of these, are of such a high class that they would easily rank among the records I rank as the best on my record shelves. ‘I Want You’ could be mistaken for coming from The Barracuda’s ‘Endeavour To Persevere’ and ‘Strange Weather’ from ‘Drop Out With The Barracudas’. Tom Petty would surely be happy to take on ‘Even Losers Get Lucky Sometimes’ and ‘Queen Of Misery’ could work well as a comeback single for obscure Brian Copsey & The Commotions, who unfortunately only managed two singles in 1981. I’m still most impressed by ‘When I Was Young’, which corresponds to the best that genius John Carter wrote in the 60’s, and John Carter was certainly no lightweight as a composer. His track record includes songs he wrote with friend Ken Lewis for the groups they were both part of, or worked for, such as Carter Lewis & The Southerners, Ivy League and Flower Pot Men. Guitarist and singer Tomas Nilsson wrote all but two songs on the album – the powerful title track was written by his son Kim Nilsson and ‘Christine’ was written by the legendary Gene Clark together with John York and Pat Robinson. The songs prove Nilsson once again that he is a world-class pop composer. The Mop Tops are grandiose, brilliant and addictive.” – Raised On Records Tomas Nilsson is currently writing and recording his songs as a solo project. The Mop Tops still continue doing live gigs.

    GAJOOB Review:

    The Mop Tops’ “Running Out Of Time” is a splendid offering from the Swedish garage pop group. Initially a download-only release, this album, now making its debut on the Kool Kat label, is a treasure trove of melodic hooks, chiming guitars, and irresistibly catchy pop tunes.

    The album kicks off with the Tom Petty-esque “She’s The One,” setting the tone for an album filled with memorable moments. The sing-along charm of “When I Was Young” is instantly captivating, while tracks like “Strange Weather” and “I Want You” showcase the band’s knack for crafting songs that are both emotionally resonant and melodically compelling.

    The title track, “Running Out Of Time,” is another standout, demonstrating high-class composition and performance. The comparison of their work to that of The Barracudas on tracks like “I Want You” and “Strange Weather” is particularly noteworthy. The band also draws favorable comparisons to Tom Petty with “Even Losers Get Lucky Sometimes,” and Brian Copsey & The Commotions with “Queen Of Misery.” Yet, it’s the song “When I Was Young” that truly impresses, echoing the genius of 60s composer John Carter.

    The majority of the songs on the album are penned by guitarist and singer Tomas Nilsson, affirming his status as a world-class pop composer. His son, Kim Nilsson, contributes the powerful title track, while “Christine” is a collaborative effort between legendary Gene Clark, John York, and Pat Robinson. The variety adds a touch of diversity to the album, yet all the tracks maintain a cohesive sound that defines The Mop Tops’ style.

    The Mop Tops have delivered an album that is grandiose, brilliant, and addictive. Even though Tomas Nilsson has moved on to solo projects, the band continues to perform live, ensuring that their unique blend of garage pop continues to reach audiences.

    Media: CD.

    Visit Kool Kat Musik

    Bandcamp URL: https://belugarecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-mop-tops-running-out-of-time

  • T-minus Band – technostalgia (CD, 2001)

    T-minus Band – technostalgia (CD, 2001)

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:

    All songs written, recorded and performed by Troy T with additional contributions by Eric Erbskorn, Clark Lopez, Jason Hamric, and Neil Golden (Octa). Artwork by Vic Donati.

    GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker, :

    “Technostalgia” by T-minus Band is a noteworthy digital album that succeeds in blending various musical styles into a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The album, available for streaming and download on Bandcamp, showcases the artist’s ability to fuse indie, alternative pop, and rock elements with a DIY aesthetic.

    The album’s title, “Technostalgia,” suggests a longing for past technologies and eras, which is reflected in the music’s retro undertones. Each track seems to harken back to different periods of music history, all while maintaining a contemporary edge. This nostalgic yet forward-thinking approach makes for a unique and intriguing listen.

    T-minus Band’s songwriting shines through in “Technostalgia,” with lyrics that are both introspective and relatable. The arrangements are well-crafted, providing a perfect backdrop for the emotive vocals. The production quality is commendable, balancing the raw energy of the performances with a polished finish.

    One of the standout features of “Technostalgia” is its versatility. The album seamlessly transitions from upbeat, energetic tracks to more subdued, contemplative pieces, demonstrating T-minus Band’s wide range of musical capabilities.

    In conclusion, “Technostalgia” by T-minus Band is a compelling album that expertly blends nostalgia and modernity. It’s an album that will appeal to both fans of classic indie and alternative music and those seeking fresh, innovative sounds.

    Media: CD.

    Bandcamp URL: https://tminusband.bandcamp.com/album/technostalgia

  • Gabe Miller – Neon City (Digital, 2021)

    Gabe Miller – Neon City (Digital, 2021)

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:

    This nails down the aesthetic I’m going for with my music… It’s a futuristic synthwave meets hip hop meets techno extravaganza, and I’m super proud of it. Welcome to the Neon City.

    REVIEW:

    Gabe Miller’s ‘Neon City’ is a musical journey that takes the listener on a rollercoaster ride through various genres, proving once again why he is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. This album, available on Bandcamp, is an eclectic mix of Electronic, Hip-Hop/Rap, Experimental, Ambient genres, showcasing Miller’s versatility as an artist.

    From the opening notes of the album, the listener is immediately drawn into the vibrant world of ‘Neon City’. Each track is a testament to Miller’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles, resulting in a sound that is uniquely his own. The album’s genre-bending nature keeps the listener on their toes, providing an auditory experience that is both exciting and unpredictable.

    The electronic elements in the album add a futuristic, almost otherworldly quality to the music. The inclusion of hip-hop/rap elements further broadens the album’s appeal.

    One of the standout features of ‘Neon City’ for me is its experimental nature. Miller is not afraid to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, and this adventurous spirit is evident throughout the album. The ambient tracks, in particular, showcase his ability to create atmospheric soundscapes that transport the listener to another place and time.

    Despite its diverse range of influences, ‘Neon City’ manages to maintain a cohesive sound. This is a testament to Miller’s skill as an electronic composer and producer, demonstrating his ability to weave disparate elements together into a unified whole.

    Gabe Miller’s ‘Neon City’ is a bold and innovative album that defies categorization. It is a testament to his talent and versatility as an artist, offering a fresh and exciting take on genre-blending music.

    Media: Digital.

    PRICE: $7.00

    Visit Gabe Miller

    Bandcamp URL: https://gabemiller1.bandcamp.com/album/the-neon-city

  • Rephazer – What’s on the Tape #1 (Digital, 2023)

    Rephazer – What’s on the Tape #1 (Digital, 2023)

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:

    Recorded a collection of sketches from an OP-1 Field Tape which got created over time while working on various sound packs or by just jamming and fooling around.

    Review:

    I got this from a post on the op-1 users reddit because I’m just getting into the OP-1 Field myself and I’m hungry to soak up stuff in this mileau.

    Electronic music artist Rephazer, better known as Marc van Leeuwen, has treated his fans to a new album titled “What’s on the Tape #1,” released in January 2023. Rephazer’s music falls into the larger category of Electronic music, where he tailors his signature sound through the use of a variety of synthesizers and sound samplers. As an experienced artist in the genre, Rephazer has been known for his ability to explore a myriad of sonic textures, artfully combining beats, melodies, and unique soundscapes.

    For his latest musical endeavor, “What’s on the Tape #1,” Rephazer takes inspiration from his OP-1 Field, a collection of audio sketches made over time while working on various sound packs or simply jamming and experimenting. The album showcases the artist’s exceptional ability to create electronic music using instruments like the Octatrack, P12, Digitone, GR-1, V-Machine, and of course, the OP-1 Field. The album was recorded using a MacBook Air M1.

    Throughout “What’s on the Tape #1,” listeners are bound to find a variety of ambient, rhythmic, and melodically-driven tracks that showcase Rephazer’s talent in composition and sound design. A noteworthy track is “Disappointment,” which starts with an ethereal synth pad that builds up to bursts of heavy, complex rhythms and percussive elements. The hooks and melodies throughout this track stand testament to Marc’s ability to craft intricate productions.

    Another standout track, “Conclusion,” showcases Rephazer’s mastery of building and maintaining a steady groove while introducing unexpected samples. The track evokes a sense of shifting time and space, making it a truly immersive experience.

    The production quality is quite impressive, with each instrument and sample cohesively blending into a unified soundscape. It becomes apparent that Rephazer has expertly harnessed the power of his recording equipment, successfully capturing the delicate nuances of each instrument and delivering a polished, professional sound.

    In conclusion, “What’s on the Tape #1” is a diverse and mesmerizing album that showcases Rephazer’s skills as a versatile electronic music producer. Fans of the Electronic genre are sure to find this album interesting and inspiring, while those new to Rephazer’s music will likely appreciate the intricate compositions and captivating soundscapes.

    Media: Digital.

    Visit Rephazer

    Bandcamp URL: https://rephazer.bandcamp.com/album/whats-on-the-tape-1

  • The National – The First Two Pages Of Frankenstein (Digital, 2023)

    The National – The First Two Pages Of Frankenstein (Digital, 2023)

    No.5144

    ARTIST/LABEL NOTES: First Two Pages of Frankenstein is The National’s ninth studio album. This 11-song collection signals a new chapter in the band’s discography. Anchored by evocative melodies and an enthralling lyrical narrative, First Two Pages of Frankenstein finds The National sounding more creatively energized than ever and poised to earn them even more fans. The album was produced by the band at Long Pond Studios in upstate New York and features guest appearances by Taylor Swift, Phoebe Bridgers and Sufjan Stevens.

    Review

    The National’s “The First Two Pages Of Frankenstein” is a unique and riveting piece, showcasing the band’s ability to weave intricate narratives through their music. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, the song draws listeners into the eerie world of Mary Shelley’s classic novel.

    From the opening notes, the track sets a somber and contemplative tone. The band’s signature blend of indie rock and post-punk elements are on full display here, creating an immersive soundscape that perfectly complements the song’s narrative focus.

    The lyrics, inspired by the initial pages of “Frankenstein,” are a testament to the band’s literary sensibilities. They manage to capture the essence of the novel’s themes, exploring the nature of creation and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The melancholic vocals add another layer of depth, conveying a sense of longing and regret that resonates powerfully.

    One of the standout aspects of the song is its arrangement. The interplay between the guitars and drums creates a dynamic rhythm that drives the song forward, while the subtle use of strings adds a layer of complexity and sophistication.

    In conclusion, “The First Two Pages Of Frankenstein” is a testament to The National’s ability to create music that is not only musically engaging but also rich in narrative and thematic depth. It’s a captivating listen that stays with you long after the final note has played, much like the novel that inspired it.

    Media: Digital.

    Visit The National

    Bandcamp URL: https://thenational.bandcamp.com/album/first-two-pages-of-frankenstein

Discover Sounds reviews sound recordings we find worthy of discovery. It’s published by Briyan Frederick Baker of GAJOOB (that’s me). Send bandcamp download codes, tapes, CDs, vinyl and other things. Read more…

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