The Junior League “Bridge and Tunnel”
Joe Adragna (The Junior League) is back with a thoughtful album that has a Long Island, New York theme. The catchy single “The Sunshine Saves Everyone” is a richly developed slice of sunshine pop akin to Allen Clapp (The Orange Peels). Assisted by Scott McCaughey (The Minus 5) and Michael Giblin (Parallax Project/The Split Squad) it’s got a heavily percussive style full of grand orchestral flourishes. While 9-11 is not mentioned directly, the trauma is felt under the surface of these songs.
The dour vignettes of life on “Library Bar” and “LIRR” speak about looking for something better. The expansive sound of “54” and “Hart Island” recall the folk-rock of America, and a highlight here is the memorable “Andrea (You Can’t Fly).” The tone shifts for “Not My Time” which is like a lost Smokey Robinson & The Miracles track. Another standout is the quicker tempo of “Turn Off The Lights.” While this album isn’t that immediate, repeat listens reveal really inventive soundscapes. It’s definitely, music that deserves to be heard.
The Raves “Past Perfect Tense” (Remastered)
Based in Atlanta, Georgia The Raves were one of those “lost” gems from the early eighties that did well locally, but never got the acclaim or signing of similar bands at the time like The Rubinoos, Shoes, or The Spongetones. By 1992 the band’s output was compiled in a limited edition Past Perfect Tense CD. This rarity boasted tight harmonies and jangling guitars in the classic tradition of The Raspberries.
Kool Kat Musik brings you a remastered version of this hard-to-find LP. Fans of traditional power pop will love this, as the energy is wilder than the Beatley haircuts on the cover. Lots of highlights from the angular riffs of “C’est La Vie” and Badfinger-like “Now You’ve Really Done It” to the bouncy rock of “Calling Your Name,” and many more. You still hear source tape limitations on some songs, but this is still a great document of The Raves talent. Highly Recommended for DIY power pop collectors.
