Tag: Brad Marino

Nick Frater and Brad Marino

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Nick Frater

Nick Frater “Oh Contraire!”

Nick Frater returns with ‘Oh Contraire’, a stunning power pop achievement that cements his place among the genre’s best. Although Frater has consistently produced memorable hooks and harmonies, his daring arrangements this time broaden his overall style. Many highlights here, the best being “I Know You Know I Know,” a memorable single with glam rock-inspired riffs and along with “One Minute” and “My Heart’s in Stereo,” it echoes Jeff Lynne’s signature production style. And when he wants to create a grand epic sound it’s no issue with “Songs For The One-Eyed City” loaded with descending guitar riffs, bells, echoing harmonies and a heavy rhythm section. Frater seamlessly blending his influences without losing his own distinct voice.

Another big highlight is “Dreaming of a Wonderland” which sounds like a lost 10cc single to me.  The mellow 1970s-inspired lounge pop of “Seraphim Called” and “Steal Away” are also refreshingly familiar, while the piano closer “Goodnight, Goodbye” is a McCartney-esque gem. Oh Contraire boasts a star-studded guest list, including Probyn Gregory, Michael Simmons, Cary Grace, and Texas power pop duo Lannie Flowers and Danny Wilkerson. Their contributions enhance an already great record, proving Frater’s ability to bring out the best in his collaborators. Without a note of filler, this one is a contender for my top ten of 2025. Highly Recommended.

Amazon | Kool Kat Musik


“Brad

Brad Marino “On The Brink”

Brad Marino’s latest release is a collection of 19 rarities, remixes, and unreleased tracks, carefully curated, remixed, and remastered. Known for his consistent output of high-energy rock, Marino unearthed a treasure trove of songs that showcase his signature blend of classic rock, and punk influences. ‘On The Brink’ leans more towards early rock and roll as a template, not that far from his old band The Connection.

If you’ve never heard Marino before, this is a great “instant” record collection. I love the re-made “Peggy Sue Got Married,” a shout out to Buddy Holly. Marino’s variety is on display too, from the mid tempo “Not Fooling Me” to the Ramones inspired “Hamburger U.” Included is the standout single duet “Over My Head” with Natalie Sweet. Overall a fun collection. Highly Recommended.

Amazon | Kool Kat Musik

Fourth of July Special: Brian Ray, The Drolls, Gentlemen Rogues, Friends of Cesar Romero, Steven Wright-Mark, Brad Marino, Muck and the Mires

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It’s been a long time, but Brian Ray (guitarist with Paul McCartney) returns with a new album in August. The new single, “When The Earth Was Round” is a small sample of what to expect. Freebies are here! The Drolls and Gentlemen Rogues deliver plenty of fuzzy punk power pop. Check out “Happy Hour,” and “Connection.” Then South Dakota’s Friends of Cesar Romero have a new high-energy EP, so check out “Last Summer a Year From Now.” Speaking of summer, we have a wonderful pop single from Steven Wright-Mark called “Summer Sky,” Hopefully, a new album isn’t far behind. Another great EP is Muck and the Mires newest, “Zoom Breakup,” with a high-tech way to dump your date. Finally, Brad Marino has been listening to those old hot-rod-era Beach Boys and The Rip Chords. He decided to add to that vintage genre with his car songs on “Hot Rod Rampage.” I love that cover of “Shut Down!” And in case you missed Steve Conte’s new song… Happy 4th of July!






Erik Voeks and Brad Marino

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Super Cassette

Erik Voeks & The Ghosters “It Means Nothing Now”

There’s always at least one artist a year who swoops in at the last minute to make a great impression on me. This year, that artist was Erik Voeks and The Ghosters. Voeks has been a tireless DIY musician making his music for many years, but this time he’s collaborated with a band, and the result is pure pop magic.

The general theme here is the ephemeral nature of all things. Both Voeks and guitarist Juan Ferrari do a masterful job together. The title track “It Means Nothing Now” is an incredible opener, with the jangle layered on top of relaxed harmonies akin to classic bands like The Byrds or America. “Hazy Maze” is another gem about the passing of time online and the endless photos that generate money for social media companies. “Everything Dissolves” chorus soars and is another gem.

The jaunty angled riffs of “Hieronymus” about a visit to Madrid perfectly describe a tourist’s mood, and then the chiming riffs of “The Most Confusing Part” are akin to classic Elvis Costello. “Suck It Up, Buttercup” starts with a T-Rex riff about the state of the political abyss and “we should’ve seen it coming.” The combination of excellent guitar breaks and wry lyrics on “It Breaks You” is a great example here. The album settles into a consistent groove without a single note of filler. And when it rocks out, like on “Love You Anyway,” it’s just irresistible. There are too many highlights to mention here, and it’s not only highly recommended; this makes my top ten of 2023 list!

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Brad Marino

Brad Marino “Grin and Bear It”

Grin and Bear It is the title of Brad Marino’s new album, which features 12 songs that encompass Rock n’ Roll, Punk Rock, and Power Pop. There are moments in life when you simply have to give up and accept the situation. His ability to write great new music using the classic rock and roll template is really impressive.

In addition, Brad gladly collaborates with his fellow “New England Mafia” (Kurt Baker, Geoff Palmer, and Zack Sprague) on all manner of songs. The sound of The Connection lives through Brad on “Back Again” and the Baker-penned “Hung Up.” The title track is always about letting things slide: “Who cares what they say about you…” It’s also characterized by a jagged and halting rhythm that captures your attention. The beauty here is that Brad adds his blues-rock touches to songs like “Another Sad and Lonely Night” (a Bobby Fuller cover), and he also covers The Rolling Stone’s “(She’s) Doing Her Thing” and “Monkey Man!” Not a bad track in the bunch. Highly Recommended.

Amazon | Kool Kat Musik

All Star End of August Singles: Geoff Palmer, Roger Joseph Manning, Jr., Chris Price, Brad Marino, Thomas Walsh, Sofa City Sweetheart

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Not everything comes out on Bandcamp, and I have to recognize that some of the biggest players in power pop also use YouTube. Geoff Palmer (The Connection) is prepping a new album with Ramones-like “Give It Up,” and it sounds fantastic. Roger Joseph Manning, Jr. (Lickerish Quartet, Jellyfish) gets back to basics on “I’m Starting A Band” and is joined by the great Chris Price on “Rockin’ It Our Way.” Geoff’s ex-bandmate Brad Marino is also doing some damage with the new single “Lucy.” Thomas Walsh (Pugwash) has “A Good Day For Me” that doesn’t stray far from his band’s roots, still as melodic as ever. Finally, Sofa City Sweetheart offers a bright sunny gem in “It Wasn’t You” a love song that isn’t quite that, but what a vibe here. With September almost here, we’ll soon say goodbye to summer and move into the busiest month for music releases. Stay tuned!




June singles: The Diners, Wesley Fuller, Brad Marino, The Gypsy Moths, Pretty, Ex-Norwegian

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You wouldn’t know it was summer in NYC with that Canadian smoke cloud hovering, but the music certainly says so. The Diners are a new band, the combo of Blue Broderick and fellow songwriter Mo Troper. Paste Magazine compared the new single “The Power” to Big Star and the Raspberries, so I’m all ears here. It’s been a few years since I’ve heard Melbourne-based power pop boy wonder Wesley Fuller, and he sounds even better than before, going “Back to Square One.” Brad Marino reads off his record collection, and I could listen all day. The Gypsy Moths sing about a classic Coney Island Amusement park, with cool sax blasting away. If you want more noise distortion with your rock, give Pretty a listen. It settles down into a Cramps meets Soundgarden vibe which is kinda nice. Finally, Ex-Norwegian talks about a “Real Bad Bunny,” but he’s not talking about this guy, right? I like the B-side “Send Nudes” even better!