In 2008 I promoted the documentary “Why Isn’t Chris Von Sneidern Famous?” Well now it’s out on DVD and you get the opportunity to watch the story at home. It’s not only a profile of one of the best musicians you’ve never heard of (who kind of avoids identifying himself with “power pop”), but a debut documentary for director Kathleen Mcnamara. The film is structured around roughly six sit-down interviews that show the relationship and trust that gradually develops between the flattered, but reluctant, subject and novice filmmaker. It has plenty of commentary from critics and friends, as well as CVS performances at small venues, including IPO. The haunting question that hangs over the film is “what is success for a musician and is fame the most important ingredient?” The film is a compelling portrait of a Von Sneidern the musician and artist who sees little value in being “famous.” For Chris, doing great music is what he’s best at, not promotion or PR for himself. Often his friends and family are concerned about him just “making a living” as opposed to being a “starving” artist. Chris’ ego may get in the way of his associates business advice, but there is no doubt of his talent and creative drive. A fun documentary for both musicians and music fans alike.
Seth Swirsky "Watercolor Day"
If there is anyone with classic pop running through his veins it’s Seth Swirsky (The Red Button). With his sophomore release “Watercolor Day,” it’s a soothing journey into baroque pop stylings that recalls Brian Wilson, Burt Bacharach and Paul McCartney’s solo period. The title track oozes laid back sunshine with a touch of Beatley horns. Assisting Seth is another pop genius, Rick Gallego (Cloud Eleven) whose influence is unmistakable in tracks like “Fading Again” and “Four O’Clock Sun” where the slow flowing Beach Boy harmonies take over. A ton of highlights are on this fantastic album, from the Pet Sounds influenced “Summer In Her Hair” and “She’s Doing Fine” to the 10cc multi-themed magic of “Matchbook Cover.” Some songs are mere acoustic sketches (“Song For Heather”) or XTC-like nursery ryhmes (“Sand Dollar”) but each style fits the album’s overall tone. The rare misfire here is the aptly name “Big Mistake” which sounds too close to Monty Python’s “Lumberjack Song” to take seriously. The Bacharach styled songs “Stay” and the introspective “Twenty Minutes to Myself” both have a simple but satisfying theme. This is also the second disc I listened to this month with a Nilsson love letter track. The piano and lyric describes the childhood worship of this “musical Van Gogh” in “(I Never Knew You) Harry.” The orchestral touches are subtle and the melodies are superb throughout the album. Any way you look at it this disc is pure summer sweetness distilled and I am proud to list it in my year end top ten.
Maple Mars and Brady Harris
Maple Mars “Galaxyland”
A welcome return from Maple Mars frontman Rick Hromadka greets us on Galaxyland. The spacey concept album starts with “The Excursion” filled with detailed rhythms, guitar melodies and expansive psyche pop touches that compare well with Lynne-era Move. Following this is “Starting Over (Again)” which has a gorgeous 70’s styled big rock guitar sound, fans of the band Boston will love this. Give credit to Rick and his band: Steve Berns (guitar), Ron Pak (drums) and Trevor Zimmerman (bass) for the fantastic production and memorable melodies. “Big Imagination” has a heavy gloss that combines Steely Dan with Klaatu, and it’s a real keeper. And the band brings on the prog pop heavy guns with Mark Radice’s “Prelude: New Day” and it continues with the acoustic “New Day.” It starts to get bit preachy with “Citizen Roger” like an early Yes and Pink Floyd hybrid. The lyrical message works better on “Borrowed Sunshine” an excellent song that speaks to today’s recent lack of faith in institutions, and the “struggle to see things through.” It ends on a high note with the bouncy gem “Somewhere back there” full of layered harmonies. I feel Rick has taken Maple Mars to the next level here. Kool Kat is now offering the album with a bonus disc with five additional tracks. Highly recommended indeed!
My Space | CD Baby | Kool Kat Musik
Brady Harris “Year Of The Pug”
Texas native Brady Harris plays a strong Beatles-styled roots pop with a detailed and nuanced approach. With a soft echo Harris puts together a wonderful album filled with laid back tunes that are easy on the ears. Starting with the light strum and minor chords of “Floating,” Brady even has a bit of John Lennon’s cadence similar to “Happiness is a Warm Gun.” Highlights for me are the fantastic “Little Miss Mouring” and the “Julia” styled guitar rhythm on “Stars Shine Bright.” The country side is a bit more pronounced with some nice pedal steel guitar touches on “Drunk In The House” and the defiant piano and guitar solo breaks on “Slipping By” make it another standout. “That’s All You Need” is a fine melodic showcase along the lines of “Hey Jude.” No filler here either, which makes it an extra strong album. Songs here are all very good and fans of both alt. country and Beatlesque styles will find plenty to enjoy.
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Corin Ashley "Badfinger Bridge"
Another great song about a revered band brought to us by Corin Ashley – and his last album is another gem you shouldn’t forget about. This tune was recorded at Abbey Road, London in Studio 2 (lots of Beatles dust on all the gear). Featuring Ken Stringfellow (Posies, Big Star, Disciplines) on vocals, Martin Carr and Rob Cieka (Boo Radleys) vocals and drums, Ed Ball (The Times, TV Personalities) on piano. Dubbed the Chocolate Olivers the single is available on Itunes.
The Virgin Review: Ex Norwegian "Standby"
Miami-based indie pop band Ex Norwegian got reviewed on Virgin.com last week. The band has a dizzying array of influences and styles. Yet the songs are a catchy blend that doesn’t gets boring. Listen to “Add Vice” to see what I mean… Read my review of Ex Norwegian here.
Want to read more of my Virgin.com reviews? Check out my Virgin.com Review Archive