Two Sheds Jackson “Some Kinda Life”
This German band made a big impression with me several years ago, so I was excited to hear this full-length LP. Opening with a very ELO-influenced “Weekend” it shares some production qualities with Long Player, but Two Sheds has a more varied palette. The subtle ballad “Where The Sunflowers Reign” and “A Life Supreme” has strong orchestration and the latter has a slick hook with a smooth guitar solo. You’ll also hear elements of 10cc, Sparks, and Paul McCartney perfectly referenced, without being an homage.
The band does a great job setting a mood with little snippets like “September Rain” and delivers great AOR pop gems like “Kiss and Say Goodbye,” “Trip The Light Fantastic,” “Some Kinda Love,” and “Prism of Time.” Incorporating the last EP, the band collaborates with several pros like Vinnie Zummo, Rick Hromadka, Luke Jackson, Roger Klug, and the late Wim Oudijk. And with these excellent songs, it lifts the entire set to a “must-buy” if you missed the earlier EP.
With 22 tracks, there is alot here to absorb. Maybe too much as we get several tracks of filler sprinkled in spots, but it’s hard to find any real duds here. Kool Kat is offering the LP along with the band’s first album bundled at a special price. Highly Recommended.
Amazon | CD Baby | Kool Kat Musik
Popravinas “Willy Nilly”
The memorable Eddy Sill and his band are back with their heavily anticipated third album Willy Nilly. The Popravinas have a great classic rock sound, with nods to The Stones, Wilco and Old 97’s. The tight guitar licks and reliable melodies are also comparable to The Connection and Lannie Flowers. “Talkin’ Out Loud” is a great opener, laid back and catchy with a killer hook. They up the jangle on “Tim’s Basement” an ode to their favorite place to hang out and some great twang enters the weary gem “Put It All To Bed.”
The great thing about the Popravinas is that they’re never boring, and the band picks up the tempo on “Dun’ Me In” with its vocal harmonies and references to life on the road. The best tune here is the driving “Sofia (CMU)” about an old girlfriend that will have you singing along. You can’t ask for anything more from these guys. Highly Recommended.