Tamar Berk is following up on her successful ‘Tiny Injuries’ album with ‘Good Times for a Change’. Check out the advanced single “Good Impression,” which indicates Tamar is not slowing down. Fernando Perdomo’s album “Self” is a masterful blend of introspective lyrics and lush, melodic arrangements that showcase his multi-instrumental talents. Perdomo’s intricate guitar playing and soulful vocals serve as highlights, check out “Optimist Prime.” Summer Salt has the mellowest vibe I’ve heard this summer, and “Ribbons” is a light, sunny, easy-listening gem. Chicago musician/singer-songwriter Joe Di Zillo is “Bringing It Back” with his garage style. Check it out. Finally, Richard Turgeon returns with a Nirvana-inspired single, “Song of Discontent,” and it’s pretty cool. Enjoy!
The Kingdom of Mustang and Terry Anderson and the Olympic Ass Kickin Team
Kingdom of Mustang “Glad Days”
Charlottesville’s indie pop-rockers, Kingdom of Mustang, are back! The songwriting duo Mark Roebuck and Tim Ryan, along with the adept backing of Michael Clarke and Rusty Speidel, have crafted a distinct, consistent-sounding power pop style. Across fourteen tracks, it showcases the band’s workman-like attitude and authentic approach. Influences are easy to spot; Nick Lowe, Elvis Costello, and The Beatles. Fans of indie bands like It’s Karma It’s Cool or Vegas With Randolph will enjoy this too.
Starting with the catchiest tracks; “More Than They Deserve” and “Talk Talk Talk” it highlights Mark’s punchy guitar lines and cutting lyrics. The latter song tells you about a party that’s worn out its welcome, as you “drink up that Kool-Aid they serve to you.” They get a bit stronger riffs on the highlight “Say Hey To Blue,” along with a killer solo during the break between verses. “Don’t Count Me Out” also boasts strong energy, but if I nit-pick I felt that the sound could have used a little more variety. That said, there are no duds here – and this is music that deserves to be heard.
Terry Anderson and the Olympic Ass Kickin Team “Got To Be Strong”
With his first new LP in 12 years, Terry Anderson & The Olympic Ass-Kickin’ Team (Dave Bartholomew, Greg Rice, Jack Cornell) continue to lean into their blue-collar roots rock. Their brand of melodic garage rock and handyman humor waste no time on the opener “Chainsaw Repair Shop.”
Similar themes are here, much like in country music — with odes to “My Bandana” and its multiple functions (” I can wipe off the spit and blood when I get hurt”) and the fun lovin’ song “Best Day Ever.” The subjects are mainly about broken relationships with his “Dilapidated Heart” and mistakes made on “Regret Avenue.” While nothing here is a dud, the songs don’t always stick with you until the rousing car tune “Ride Along,” with its harmonies and “Hey, hey, hey” backing vocal. It’s a fun and accessible album everybody should check out. Take a look.
Power Popaholic Interview: Peter Holsapple
Peter Holsapple (dB’s, REM, Continental Drifters)
I had an extended interview with Peter Holsapple ( The dB’s, REM, Continental Drifters, etc.) about the newly remastered dB’s album “Stands for Decibels.” We get into many subjects; from his time with The dB’s. And we answer these questions: Will “Repercussion,” the second dB’s LP, be remastered too? Will the rest of the catalog get remastered? Is a new solo album coming? What happened when you left the band, REM? What new stuff is coming out? Get the newly remastered dB’s here!Late July: Wifey, The Junipers, The Glad Machine, Joy Buzzer, The Chesterfield Kings, Cherry Fez
Mark Ward and Telejet
Mark Ward “Let’er Rip”
What would you say if someone asked you to describe typical American power pop? Mark Ward’s latest album, “Let’er Rip” is a good example. Everything is in its proper place, from the jangling guitars to the massive musical hooks in each chorus. “I’ve Been Around” has echoes of The Raspberries in the intro, and follows the early 80s style template, with a great chorus.
Musically, Ward’s hitting all the right notes, but while his vocals are good, they don’t stand out as much as they should. But then again, the jangling “Love Me Once Again” and “Pixie Girl” wouldn’t be out of place alongside early Nick Lowe singles. The songs get longer as we move beyond the album’s first half. He gets a little more guitar muscle on “Girl Like You” and fuzzy textures on “Paint My House,” and it’s a good stylistic progression. Mark adds a bit of Johnny Cash-style country storytelling to “Villain” and “The River.” Other highlights include the slow-building “Little Frames” and “Home Tonight.” Overall, this is a very good album that’s highly recommended.
Telejet “Spiritual Age”
Toronto musician Gene Hughes formed a band with several others known as Telejet. After a digital album in 2021 and several lineup changes, he continues to release new music. The sound is very much in the melodic mold of the poppier side of XTC or Martin Newell.
The optimistic “Beautiful World” has a beautiful, descending chord line, and a harmonious chorus. Then the relaxing “Indian Summer” is supported by subtle orchestration, with its Jellyfish-like vibes. The wistful title track, “Spiritual Age,” starts simple, but grows to a grand chorus with lots of sonic details and layered instrumentation. Other highlights include the Beatlesque “She Speaks Her Mind” and “We Had It All” which remind me of Richard X Heyman’s jangling style. While there is nothing revolutionary here, the melodies are so pleasing that they’re worth exploring through re-plays. Thanks to David Bash for discovering this highly recommended gem, even though it was officially released last year.
