Richard and The Young Lions “Vol 1 & 2”
This cult garage rock combo out of Newark, NJ has long been a hidden gem amongst those late 1960’s bands and in 1998, it was included on the box set version of the definitive ’60s garage-rock compilation Nuggets. In 1966, lead singer Richard Tepp had a chance encounter with producer Bob Crewe (The Four Seasons) who’s studio helped create the hit “Open Up Your Door.” Unfortunately, the band disappeared after a few singles. They had a reunion in 2000, a fan in Steven Van Zandt, and he helped create this definitive collection with Wicked Cool Records.
What we have is a great collection of garage music in the mold of The Animals and Paul Revere and The Raiders. Highlights include “Hurt By Love,” “Nasty,” “You Can Make It,” “You Make Me Lonely,” and “Sick And Tired.” The remastered sound is crisp and the recent cuts blend in seamlessly with the ’60s originals. Not everything sticks, but between both volumes, there is plenty of great music to enjoy.
Amazon (Vol. 1) | Amazon Vol.2 | Kool Kat Musik (Vol.1) | Kool Kat Musik (Vol.2)
The Laissez Fairs “Marigold”
Las Vegas Psych poppers The Laissez Fairs return with this new LP on Rum Bar Records, and they perfectly recreate the shimmering apex of ’60s psychedelia. The opener “Long Grow The Marigolds” is flush with layered fuzz guitars and Farfisa organ, and it sets the tone. The standout “Phantom Stranger” has a sweet catchy rhythm as it jangles along, and the ballad “My Thursday” Girl” is like early Bowie meets Brian Jones.
The band’s general approach reminds me more of The Stones (especially on “Redundant Beach”) than The Lemon Pipers. Although some modern techniques filter through the rose-colored lenses, the music is consistently good across 16 trip inducing tracks. Highly Recommended.
Paul Bertolino “Poseur”
Bertolino has a distinct love for the early 1970s sound and production technique. The opener “On The Downslide” emulates Terry Kath-era Chicago with its horn blasts and bass funky beat. “Parade” is another strong vocal by Paul and great use of harmonies. He impresses for the piano ballad “Ghosted” using a falsetto almost like Barry Gibb, and it grows to a neat guitar solo at the coda.
While the melodies miss out on those hooks occasionally, Paul’s use of saxophone, flute, and R&B elements make “All The Way To Chicago” another winner, and “Tap Out” boasts a spirited guitar floating alongside the Matthew Sweet-like vocal approach. The last track “The Antidote” is another gem where he weaves together flowing vocals, rhythms, and instrumentals beautifully. Overall its the most sophisticated and polished set of music Paul’s done. Highly Recommended.