RIP: Joey Molland of Badfinger
So incredibly sad to hear that Joey Molland has passed away at 77. My heart is breaking today. Joey was a legend who kept the spirit of Badfinger alive, always touring, always sharing stories, and always carrying on despite the tragedies that surrounded the band. I had the absolute honor of meeting him a few times at Beatlefest in New York when he was there, and I’ll never forget how kind he was, and how effortlessly cool he was with all the fans. Thank you for the music, and the memories. Rest in peace, Joey.
His final album ‘Be True To Yourself’ was reviewed here, and its a fitting epitaph.
Sorrows and He’s Dead Jim
Sorrows “Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow”
A new and final chapter for the legendary NYC indie power pop band Sorrows is finally out. This end to the trilogy of albums ‘Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow’ was recorded in 1981, at the height of their powers. The band is made up of Arthur Alexander, Joey Cola, Ricky Street, and Jett Harris. Originally they were The Poppees, but changed their name and upped their game in 1980. In the spirit of Cheap Trick, The Plimsouls, and 20/20, they had the hooks, harmonies, and punk energy to make it very big. But their record company had other plans and the 2nd album was ruined by overproduction and management interference. The album was finally released as intended, and ‘Love Too Late’ was my #2 album of 2021.
Now right out of the gate, the raw “Never Mind” is a cry to the record company suits that the band’s independence was top of mind. It’s a perfect melding of Beatles and Stones, along with the brilliant “Out Of My Head.” Then add a little Who-influence, and you get the perfect Ricky Street rocker “What A Good Boy!” The band also has several blistering rockabilly tunes “Let Me Know,” “That’s Your Problem,” and “Something Else.” Another highlight is the heartfelt elegy for John Lennon “Cricket Man,” and there are a few well done covers included as well. Overall, a fantastic send off for one of the most under-rated bands ever. A contender for my 2025 top-album list for sure. Highly Recommended!
He’s Dead Jim “Head Like a Toyshop”
While the band name and cover is a clever bit of sci-fi nostalgia, this Aberdeen, UK group starts us off in the same direction as psyche pop revivalists Mothboxer or Emperor Penguin with the opener “Paradise Fayre.” But they don’t stay in that lane, “On the Beach” has a Madchester lite feel, and they bounce around the genres of garage, glam, new wave, and jangle.
Highlights include “Seventh Night of Sin,” “Ticket to Explode,” and bright horns and synths of “Tomorrow is Yesterday” which seems to sum up this bands motto. Not all the songs hit the mark, but the enthusiasm is evident. The variety of styles are also a mixed bag, but even a faithful cover of Blue Öyster Cult’s “Don’t Fear The Reaper” will put a smile on your face. Fans of adventurous retro pop will enjoy this, so check it out.
Vanilla and The 1957 Tail-Fin Fiasco
Vanilla “Pish Posh”
Pacific Northwestern power poppers Vanilla have finally completed their massive Pish Posh album project. Jayson Jarmon (Liar’s Club), Sean Gaffney, Mark Simmons, Scott Warfield, James Peterson started laying tracks down in 2023 as a song-a-month project. Ending with a massive pile of 36 songs, you are guaranteed to find more than a few gems here. In fact, the batting average is very high. While some songs are interesting, like “S1 E1” with its Russian klezmer style, I tended to stick with more traditional power pop oriented tracks like “Situtation Change,”“Fine Line,” and “Shuttlecock.”
There is some fun experiments that I also found compelling, like the dichotomy of “Second String” with its light jangling guitar with heavy deep chorus and the very Penny Lane flavored “Pancake Hat.” Another gem “Coil Memory” boasts a great brass introduction and recalls late period John Lennon. The light Bossa nova beat “She Loves Me Not” is a breezy duet with Jessica Van Horn and a very XTC-like “Solar Plexus” loads it up with some great chord shifts in the verses. So many different subjects are here, like the political “Blame the System” is almost an American protest in the spirit of 80’s band Midnight Oil or the poignant “The Hunger Artist” opining on the struggling state of the average musician. You will find a lot of variety stylistically too. For the equivalent of a three-album set, this is definitely a highly recommended box of assorted chocolates. Indulge yourself!
The 1957 Tail-Fin Fiasco “Are You Sure?”
These guys are like Steely Dan from an alternate universe, lead by musician Malcolm Moore and with lyricist David Myers, and multi-instrumentalists Paul Mason and Patrick Duffin. While they may sound similar to the famous Becker-Fagen duo, they are decidedly unique with strange stories and offbeat wonderfulness. “Strictly Hickory” will just stick with you like a commercial for an Alabama pork belly rub. It’s all light fun with some really serious musicianship. In fact it does take a few spins to stick, since each composition is loaded with melodic twists and turns. “Happy Couple” has some great bits and a fantastic guitar solo, but the ever repeating chorus does wear out its welcome.
“Bench Warmers” has a retro fifties rhythm and a smooth chorus and is another big highlight, and “Do You Think I Might Be Jesus?” has an interesting analogy in the story and its got some great sonic details. However, the formula here doesn’t always work and the stream of consciousness song structure can get frustrating for some listeners. But if you are looking for something left of center the 1957 Tail-Fin Fiasco might be your cup of tea. Check it out.
Power Popaholic Interview: Joe Giddings
Joe Giddings
Joe Giddings (Star Collector) has finally returned with “Stories With Guitars” and his new album bursts forth with power-pop energy, showcasing his signature blend of infectious melodies, shimmering harmonies, and dazzling guitar work. Read the album review here. | Buy the album here: AmazonCheck out the video!