Steve Baskin “Dead Rock Star”
Atlanta-based veteran singer/songwriter Steve Baskin (The Cindy Wilson Band, The Hippycrickets, HugoAgogo) has a new solo LP. His unique mix of southern fried power pop reminds me of Matthew Sweet, John Mayer, and Brad Brooks.
It’s got a big bass guitar sound on the opener “Kissed Me Forever,” similar to Joe Walsh and it makes a great impression. “Single Thing About You (Cinchilla)” is another great song with a steady riff under each verse and a killer guitar solo. He shifts gears on “I’m Down” to the lovelorn singer songwriter, but we go back to rock on the dynamic title track. He’s a skilled balladeer on “Nobody Died Today” and bluegrass picker on “If I Died Today (I’d Still Be Young).” He even does a countrified cover of “Killer Queen.” Together its a pretty varied mix of styles that somehow works. Overall a superb showcase for his talent.
Evil Arrows “5” EP
Bryan Scary continues his series of EPs as leader of The Evil Arrows. Like the other EPs in the collection its got Bryan’s unique musical style and pop flair. “Dance With Me Louie,” has a little boogie in its beat and the slow build of “Lordy Boxcar” to an echo filled chorus make them standouts here.
But unlike the past 4 EPs, there isn’t a big obvious rocker single. Bryan plays it more subtle here, and another treat is the low-key piano goodie “Sunday Mope.” It’s a sing-songy chorus that doesn’t leave your head. So if you’ve got the other EPs, this makes a fine addition. I recommended Evil Arrow virgins to start with EP 1.