The Jellybricks “Dreaming in Stereo”
Natives of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania The Jellybricks have a lengthy rap sheet and have always been a very strong power pop band. After joining Wicked Cool Records in 2019, the ‘Bricks reached their full potential, and with every additional release, they improve their sound. It begins with the upbeat song about misinformation, “Age of Stupid,” very akin to classic Green Day. “Dreaming In Stereo,” the title track, is a showcase of the band’s full sound, loaded with hooks and harmonies.
But the confessional “Sound of a Broken Heart” is a surefire hit here, packed with emotion and a great hook. The band’s music has evolved to include the contemporary rocker “All About You,” which features rapid-fire lyrics and groovy licks. “Monday’s Never” feels like a surly response to The Cure’s “Friday I’m In Love,” and while the second half doesn’t quite match the fantastic first half, there are plenty of gems here, including “Enchanted I Am,” the long player “Crazy Weather,” and the brilliant closing “Shine On.” Without a doubt, highly recommended.
The Moles “Composition Book”
Australian musician Richard Davies has long been under the radar with his bands The Moles and Cardinal, yet his music has built a solid cult following. The Flaming Lips, for example, covered his music and supported him back in 1995. Davies creates subtle, melodic indie rock tunes that are occasionally dissonant and melodic at the same time. He was a great interview early last year on his odd history in the music business.
With Composition Book, he strums acoustic guitar and adds female vocals on the opener “Feel Like A Dollar.” Davies delights with his incisive humor and lyrical weirdness on this opener, but it sticks. The simple piano repeated sequence on “Alvin Hollis,” grows organically with off kilter Velvet Underground touches, Who call outs “Lost Generation” reminds us of how “out there” Davies can be. This is an album to experience as a work of abstract music art. Highlights include “Tragedy,” “Since I Don’t Know When,” and the acid-laced “Blow Yer Mind.” Like all of his Moles music, this isn’t for everyone. But those in the know will absolutely love it.
