The Lemon Twigs “Go To School”
Long Island-based brothers Brian and Michael D’Addario decided that a rock musical would make a good sophomore album. It’s a bold move with a really weird storyline; about a chimpanzee, Shane, who is raised by frustrated performers “Bill and Carol” as he comes to terms with the obstacles of life.
It starts with the bombastic “Never In My Arms, Always In My Heart” overstuffed with piano, guitars, choirs and chiming bells. You definitely hear Todd Rundgren’s influence (circa 1973) all over this album, and he actually adds himself into the narrative as “Bill.” Todd contributes his vocals at points in the story (“Never Know.”) The finely written “The Student Becomes The Teacher” and “Rock Dreams” are wonderfully realized themes that explain the story perfectly. Other tunes satisfy the ear like “Small Victories,” the sweet “Wondering Ways” and “Lonely” are all very heartfelt. Also impressive was “Queen of My School” which feels pulled off Big Star’s third album, with Big Star’s Jody Stephens as a guest drummer!
For all the greatness I hear, the entire production drags in the second half and the Broadway musical elements feel more like a forced indulgence as “Born Wrong/Heart Song” is a good example. This album succeeds in small doses, so I would take time and sit through repeat listens. As a whole it’s overwrought, but it does push the message well. And it does just enough for me to make it Highly Recommended.
Paul McCann “Here Comes The Rapture”
We met Paul a few years ago with his solo EP, but now he’s delivered a full-length LP. The Irish singer-songwriter plays all his own instruments and knows a good hook or two. He starts with a re-do of his older single “Keep The Devil Within,” and it remains a catchy gem, with its killer chorus. The follow-ups are also impressive with “Its Only A Fantasy” and “Miss Self Depreciating” hitting all the right buttons and hooks. The production here is thick and glossy which works for most of this style of power pop.
After that, it’s a mixed bag. Paul does well with twangy guitar licks and solos like on “The Magician,” but the ballads that follow aren’t as compelling. Fortunately, that doesn’t pull the album off the rails. The title track is a stadium-sized rocker, and the compelling “Charge” has multi-tracked vocals, an ELO-styled string accompaniment, and a wicked guitar break. The final track “Blinded By The Dark” was the most intriguing with some nice vocal work and acoustic rhythms. A strong album that deserves to be to be Highly Recommended.