James Henry “Pluck”
Liverpool-born James Henry has been on the periphery of the music scene for many years, so it’s nice to discover someone who really “gets it” when it comes to melodic pop. Opening with the strong single “A Girl Like You,” it rocks along akin to Squeeze’s Glenn Tilbrook with tight guitar hooks and a forceful beat. It’s followed by the meticulously constructed “Cinema Haze” which reminded me more of Crowded House with its prog-like synth bridge that incorporates several styles. The jangling “Available for Selection” is another gem that will stick to your head fast. And it’s more than pretty, catchy melodies — “I Never Loved You More” is all about an abusive relationship. The violent lyrics directly contrast with the bouncy, happy chorus!
With so many inventive songs, it takes a few listens to find all the sweet details in the production. The Beatles are a not-so-hidden influence that’s present in many tunes, but it doesn’t take over the musical identity that Henry has crafted. No filler here and many great songs; “So Many Times Before,” “Afterthought,” and “Only Find Love.” After multiple listens, this gets a nod to my top ten of 2021 list. Highly Recommended!
Mommyheads “Age of Isolation”
The Mommyheads have been in and around the music scene since 1988. Led by Adam Elk and a variety of players they’ve sporadically been releasing music for years, and they’ve been one of the few bands that have been consistently listenable, improving over time. After a breakup in 1998, and dropped from Geffen Records, the band reformed in 2008 with a core group (Adam Elk, Michael Holt, Dan Fisherman, Jason McNair) and a more mature indie rock sound with a strong progressive influence.
The Age of Isolation comments on the new reality we are all living in and quietly starts with the gentle “TV Dinner” as it builds up to a memorable chorus. The angular riffs open “Last Silver Dollar,” it’s an elaborate arrangement that reflects the anxiety of earth’s fate. The music gets more pensive with the title track and “Statues (Paintings, Poems, and Books)” boasts some atmospheric guitar about removing supremacist imagery from culture. It’s a controversial stance that goes against pop culture, “where do we draw the line?” Elk asks. That questioning narrative runs through the album, like on “Am I Too Comfortable?” While these songs aren’t as immediate, and a few are dull (i.e. “Don’t Ignore The Air”) they are especially compelling musically and lyrically, like the final track “Amnesia Collective.” Check it out. Also, The Mommyheads are one of the few bands I’ve seen that has their entire catalog at a “name your price” point on Bandcamp.
