Marty Graveyard “Marty Graveyard’s Summer Holiday”
Marty was the drummer of the now broken up Dutch-Power-Pop Band The Madd!, and this is his first solo album. Starting with the bouncy “Do You Really Wanna Dance?” it’s a relentlessly catchy opener, with a Rubinoos meets Beach Boys vibe. Marty’s vocal is really reminiscent of Roger Hodgson (Supertramp).
Then Julia Reinhold guest vocals on “Why,” a nostalgic pop tune in the style of Lesley Gore. The fast paced guitar riffs and high vocals will surely make “My Heart Is Set On You” a summer classic. The relentless sunshine may be too cute for some, but this is a guilty pleasure I’ll gladly give in to. Fans of The Monkees and The Three O’Clock will also love this, recommended tracks include: “Just Friends”, “Kick Me When I’m Down” and the jangle filled title track.
Kevin Bents “The Honors”
Kevin impressed me with his melodic 2008 album The Means, here he takes a decidedly Steely Dan vibe with his keyboard on “Not The Kind.” Kevin gives us a touch of soul on “I’ll Wait” and “On The Spot” is a catchy suite of themes with great unexpected tempo changes. The slow ballads “Somebody Got A Hold” and “Sail Down The River” remind me a bit of Peter Gabriel. And the free form rhythm and composition of “Downtown” and metallic “Constant Contact” are also highlights. This mature LP always lets the melody lead. An adventurous album that’s hard to ignore.
