The Phantom Six “Plastic Rain”
These six rockers from West Virginia are Mark Poole (lead vocals/guitar), Billy Sheeder (guitar), Billy Matheny (bass), Clint Sutton (drums) and Woody O’Hara (percussion). Opening with “Corianna” it kicks down the doors with a sonic assault similar to The Foo Fighters and Superdrag. The followup “Inspiration” mines both British Invasion garage with Mod touches, and “About Love” keeps those tasty riffs in the chorus. The title track has everything you need, with vocal harmonies, hand claps and a fun hook that keeps your head bobbing.
Fans of The Raspberries and The Flaming Groovies will enjoy “Scenes Like This” even if Poole’s vocal gets overshadowed at times by the great guitar work. Lots of impressive reverb and energy throughout the album make it an easy recommendation. More highlights include the Kinksian “Into My Dreams,” and “Emily Einstein.” Enjoy!
The Brixton Riot “Palace Amusements”
After the cool debut EP The Brixton Riot decided to live up to their namesake and emulate Husker Du and The Replacements with this new LP. “Hard To See The Sun” and “Canvas Shoes” are very memorable rockers. But the band’s mid-tempo numbers don’t stick as well, but the band is redeemed on the hilarious “Hipster Turns 30.” A crafty tune that features a great strumming rhythm and memorable lyric.
When the band moves from its core 90’s sound on “Carmelita” it gets interesting with a funky beat and waltz in the middle eight! Fans of both Thin Lizzy and The Lemonheads will also dig the fast tempo riff work featured on “Ocean Avenue” and “Losing Streak.” Overall, Palace Amusements is great driving music with a vintage tone and punk-like energy.
