Michael Simmons “First Days of Summer”
Simmons was the guitarist for powerpop band Sparkle*Jets UK and was last heard on The Yorktown Lads. “Do Your Best to Care” is Michael’s promise to give you quality music as a “normal guy,” and he does in a very matter of fact way on the mid-tempo opener. “Get Back What You Put In” is a highlight with a terrific pop melody and great harmonies that deliver a powerful message. “Fuzzy Green Hat” is wonderful quirky Harry Nilsson-like pop gem about writer’s block and “No More Girls” is like a lost XTC gem about getting that “teenage feeling” when you are an adult.
The second half slows down with the calming Beach Boys-like title track, then out of nowhere “EP’s Are Weak” delivers a rap that answers the question “Why is this fat old white dude spittin’ out rhymes?” Well, it turns out to be great advice for the young artists out there and a good argument for the full-length long player. The album does wander a bit into cheesy 80’s moments like “Let’s Fall In Love” and “It’s My Fault.” I liked the more guitar oriented “Bucket List” with its honky-tonk beat and the grungy shredding on “Dirt Nap.” What makes this album really work is that you see the humor in Michael’s lyrics and his day job philosophy (as a teacher) in the music. In addition, the skilled production and composition are also great. Highly Recommended.
KC Bowman “Fresher Tin Villages”
KC Bowman is involved in many groups (Agony Aunts, The Corner Laughers, Preoccupied Pipers) but in 1997 Bowman’s Fresher Tin Villages was a huge feature in Bruce Brodeen’s Not Lame catalog. And for good reason.
Bowman delivers a power pop classic here with piano gems (“Palomine Cranes”), guitar brilliance (“Cuban Illness Anxiety”) and each tune flows into the next. Fans of Emitt Rhodes, XTC, and Ben Folds will love this, but if this is new to you — wow, you struck music gold here. The twenty songs pass by so fast, you will be compelled to repeat it over and over. The original CD is a high priced find on Amazon, but I recommend this remastered version on Bandcamp. Proceeds from all sales will benefit Transitions-Mental Health Association (TMHA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating stigma and promoting recovery and wellness for people with mental illness.
