Tag: Novelty Island

Last Day in March Goodies: Lost Hearts, Novelty Island, The Blakes, Everet Almond, Canadian Invasion, Dazy

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The debut single “Hate Yourself” by Nashville’s Lost Hearts is radio ready gem with a swaggering rock n’ roll attitude.  Max Frye’s vocals are set against a pounding guitar background and relentless energy as he sings about a toxic relationship with a former partner. Next, Novelty Island is one of those bands on the cusp of greatness (and another LP) but we have a single “Eureka, I Can See!” that will tide us over. The Blakes released some out-takes that are so good, I wonder why we haven’t heard more, as “What You Own” kicks ass. Everet Almond has discovered a very groovy Clavinet on the cool single “Insanity,” and veteran band Canadian Invasion delivers a nice freebie, Your Favorite Lies EP. I really liked “The Charms of Adeline” with its pedal steel guitar. And finally, Dazy is back with another EP of fuzz-drenched goodness called Otherbody. Check out “Every Little Thing,” “ESTAO,” in fact this is good all around. Don’t be an April’s Fool, and get this fresh batch!






Quick Takes: Silvertwin, Life on Mars, Well Wishers, Novelty Island

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Silvertwin “Silvertwin”

The work of UK musician Isaac Shalam, who uses 1970s pop-rock as an influence and touchpoint. Fans of Supertramp, Andy Pratt, and ELO will really enjoy this but rarely do the songs go above and beyond their influences. “Ploy” and “Doubted” are early highlights, and Isaac’s technique is perfect. Keep your eye on this band for next year. Highly Recommended. Get it on Amazon

Life On Mars “At Stars End”

Earl Kayoss, Denny Seiwell, and Fernando Perdomo deliver a subtle rock gem. Kayoss sounds a bit like Cat Stevens and Perdomo is able to let his inner Steve Howe (Yes) fly free, or is that his inner David Gilmour (Pink Floyd)? Denny Seiwell (Wings) keeps each song anchored, and provides needed structure. What a treat. Highlights include; “She’s Already Gone,” “Rock People” and “What Have I Done” Get it on Bandcamp

The Well Wishers “Spare Parts”

Jeff Shelton gathers his outtakes and turns it into a pretty good album. “Growing Old” is a terrific rocker that follows The Well Wisher formula, and the other songs are just as interesting. Highlights include “Let’s Drive (All Better Now)” and a cool take on Love and Rockets “It’s All In My Mind.” Jeff even emulates Gary Numan in “Love and Science.” Check it out. Get it on Amazon


Novelty Island “How Are You Coping With THis Century?”

Liverpool-based songwriter/producer, Tom McConnell made this charming bedroom pop project. Mostly acoustic with memorable melodies like the opener “This Bird.” The quirky “Cowboy On A Bicycle” boasts a creative video along with Tom’s twee vocalizations. Fans of early McCartney and Emitt Rhodes will fall for these effective hooks. Not a single dud here, and the earworms are plentiful. Highly Recommended. Get it on Amazon