Vinyl Candy “The Dirty Third”
The Los Angeles based band continues it’s musical quest on Dirty Third, to take the influences of arena rock and make it their own. Unlike the concept approach of the last album, this is more a collection of singles and with a distinct melancholy mood. “Human” opens up things with multiple synth lines and the band’s classic riffs. Both “Fallen” and “Ghost of You” have great sorrow behind the piano and guitar crescendos. The band tries many different instrumental key changes to contrast with vocalist, Matt Corey’s croon. Some work well (“California Georgia”) and some don’t (“Shine”). Standout tracks include the energetic “On Again Off Again” and “Love Is Too Far Gone” is a triumph of style with its pounding keys and harmonic choruses. One cannot argue that Corey and the band puts their soul into the music, but the complex arrangements leave less room for those juicy hooks that I heard in past albums. Fans of Butch Walker, Muse, KISS and other 70’s styled rock icons should welcome Dirty Third onto their playlist without hesitation. You don’t find musical quality like this everyday, so don’t miss it.
Archie Powell & The Exports
“Skip Work”
After giving us a catchy Loose Change EP, Archie Powell and The Exports have earned our attention with their clever lyrics and garage pop aesthetic. Skip Work is a most satisfying full length extension and the tunes like “Enough About Me” have a quick bouncy tempo and a killer baseline hook that that sets the mood. There is a sense of pure pop fun throughout the album that is captured on the following track, “Fighting Words” and “Moving To The City” refers to the band’s relocation to Chicago. The songs are both cynical and optimistic at the same time. Kind of like Weezer meets America with a dash of Elvis Costello, the song “Skip Work” is an driving anthem that’s perfect for these tough times. Another highlight is “Follow Through” with it’s honky tonk rhythm and layered pop prodcution. Every song sticks, although the lack of tempo variety or ballads is something that could be improved upon. But if you don’t nitpick here you have a truly celebratory study in dynamic arrangement and steadfast pop craftsmanship.
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