"Leadhead's Lounge"
Album Reviews by Shane Copher
Sponsored In Part By
Restless Heart - Greatest Hits: No End To This Road
RCA Records
This greatest hits package from Restless Heart is about what you’d expect.
Thirteen of the band's biggest singles, along with three previously unreleased
tracks. Long a fan favorite on country radio, the band's melodic sounds
and vocal harmonies shine on hits like "The Bluest Eyes in Texas" and "I’ll
Still Be Loving You." Plenty of their slower ballads are included, as well.
A great collection of contemporary country, proving there is certainly
No End To This Road.
Soil - Soil
Olympic Recordings, Inc.
This five track recording from Soil is an extremely impressive debut from
some guys who have been around. Consisting of ex-members of Sindrome, Broken
Hope, and Oppressor, this EP is head and shoulders above anything they’ve
been involved in in the past. This is aggressive metal, with an "alternative"
edge, masterfully played and mixed. There is not a dog in the pack, while
"She" and "Broken Wings" border on brilliant. Fans of heavy music will
eat this one up... don’t miss it!
Mike Ireland and Holler - Learning How to Live
Sub Pop Records
Marketed as "alternative" country, Mike Ireland is actually more "traditional"
in his sound. There is a heavy Buck Owens/Dwight Yoakum influence that
makes these tracks perfect for the honky-tonk crowd. Well-penned tracks
and a clean production result in an album that’s worth searching for. "Biggest
Torch In Town" and "Cold, Cold Comfort" are just a couple of the standout
tracks on this excellent release. I’ve got a feeling we’ll be hearing a
lot from this country newcomer.
Cipher - Kingdom of the Blind
Eclipse Records
Progressive, aggressive metal, with harmonic overtones and blistering leads.
Cipher keeps it ripping, without the monotony of their thrash-heavy contemporaries.
The songwriting is strong, the performances clean, and the production is
top notch, as well. This album boasts exceptionally strong vocals by Mark
Shveima Jr., who has since left the band. Snatch this one up, as its thirteen
tracks will surely get you moving. Great stuff!
John Anderson - The Essential John Anderson
BNA Records
Over the years, John Anderson’s traditional styling and backwoods vocals
have filled the airwaves, resulting in a string of country hits. This surplus
of songs has resulted in several "greatest hits" packages, and this is
another. Composed of tracks from the past five or six years, including
the blockbuster "Seminole Wind," this will make a nice addition to your
music library. 15 cuts, several of them chart-toppers, along with one new
track, the Shawn Camp-penned "Clear As a Bell," make this a package worth
picking up.
Motorhead - Snake Bite Love
CMC International Records
Finally, Lemmy and the boys are back, with their heartiest album in quite
some time. I have been a hardcore fan of this band since Bomber, back in
’79, and what they deliver on stage has not always been easy to capture
in the studio. Snake Bite Love fixes all that, with a truly devastating
sound, and tracks that sound written, rather than "thrown together," as
on previous releases. From the opening barrage of "Love For Sale" to the
final strains of "Better Off Dead," this album is pure Motorhead from start
to finish. While not likely to knock Ace of Spades off anyone's list, the
band's last few albums will pale in comparison. The band is tight, the
tracks are strong, and Lemmy is at his gargling and growling best. This
album is a killer!
Soulfly - Soulfly
Roadrunner Records
Max Cavalera’s post-Sepultura outfit carries a lot of the weight of his
previous band, but with a less tribal and a bit more polished delivery.
Still ultra-aggressive, Max and his bandmates rip through 15 tracks on
this debut, no less than half that are killer. "Eye For An Eye" is the
opener, and makes reference to the Sepultura split, while "Bleed" and "The
Song Remains Insane" are straight ahead thrashers. Along the way, you’ll
find a variety of heavy rhythms and the kind of ferocity you’ve come to
expect from Mr. Cavalera. A strong debut.
Aaron Tippin - The Essential Aaron Tippin
RCA Records
Aaron Tippin’s trademark "twang" has made him a favorite on the country
scene. This collection of songs includes smash hits, along with alternative
cuts, that span his entire career. From country boy anthems like "Toolbox"
and "Workin’ Man’s Ph.D." to the "pop" strains of "...Radio," Aaron has
made a habit of tearing up the charts. Along with the expected hits, this
album includes some less familiar but equally impressive tracks, including
my personal fave, "Many Beers Ago." A long-overdue collection of solid
country music; with this one, you can’t miss.
Aware 6: The Compilation
Aware Records
The latest showcase from Aware Records contains a fresh batch of cutting
edge artists, nicely suited for the college radio crowd. Shawn Mullins’
"Lullaby" kicks this one off with a "narrative" cut, reminiscent of Lou
Reed. Owsley offers up some Beatlesque pop, while Noel Hartough and Lackey
lend modern alternative offerings. Rustic Overtones presents a couple of
slightly "rap-py" tracks, while Cary Pierce’s "Tower" lends a soft and
melodic change of pace. Other artists featured are Greyboy Allstars, Blake
Morgan, Mr. Henry, Bicycle, Webster Saltman, and the Ben Swift Band. The
talents displayed here have all the freshness and vitality of past Aware
alumni, Hootie & the Blowfish, The Verve Pipe and Better Than Ezra,
but whether or not they can reach the same level of success, only time
will tell; but it’s easy to see that the label is doing its part.
Soak - Flywatt
Sire Records
Hot and sweaty alternative rock with a thundering foundation and solid
songwriting throughout. The churning rhythms keep you moving while their
power and angst slam you around the room. Top of the line offering with
"Me Compassionate," "Braille" and "Do It" among the standouts. If this
serves as any indication of Soak’s talent, you’ll be hearing a lot more
from them in the coming months. Red hot!
Sara Evans - No Place That Far
RCA Records
I raved about her debut last year; now, with the release of No Place
That Far, Sara Evans has done it one better. This album displays again
her pure country vocals, while boasting a strong batch of tracks, from
"The Great Unknown" to "Cryin’ Game," there’s not a weak cut in the bunch.
Sara’s vocals offer shades of Patti Loveless, but with a sultry style that’s
all her own and sure to take her to the upper echelons of contemporary
country music. Brilliant!
The Residents - Wormwood * Curious Stories From the Bible
East Side Digital
A very strange release from these punk mainstays, Wormwood is a
concept album of sorts, concentrating on some of the more bizarre and darker
tales from the so-called "Good Book." From incest and matricide to child
abuse and sacrifice, the subject matter is sure to offend some Christians,
but The Residents have included easy references so anyone in doubt can
look these tales up themselves. An ambitious project, but musically, a
disappointment from past efforts. Definitely not for the mainstream.
R. Kelly & Celine Dion - I'm Your Angel
Jive Records
This CD single includes both the radio version and the extended LP version
of this superstar duet’s latest smash. Expertly written and arranged, as
well as delivered, this has all the makings of a mega-hit and is sure to
find its way into wedding receptions and prom rooms everywhere. All that
and a bag of fries.
Gorguts - Obscura
Olympic/Slipdisc
After a long time in limbo, Gorguts is back with a vengeance. Obscura
contains over an hour’s worth of no-holds-barred, in-your-face metal, with
pummeling rhythms and a piercing guitar attack. Not for the faint of heart,
Gorguts is thrash that’s taken to the extreme and may be a bit too maniacal
for mainstream metal fans, but it will hold a hallowed spot in the realm
of the mosh-hungry hardcore, showing that there’s more to Canada than Molson
and pike fishing. Ouch!!
Radiobaghdad - 665: Neighbor of the Beast
Onefoot Records
Radiobaghdad’s newest release is a combination of speedy and traditional
punk, with clever writing and sound playing throughout. "Truckers On Speed"
picks up the pace with a heavier, more grinding feel, while "No Resurrection"
and "Bordercross" are along the lines of NOFX. From bouncy to blurry, 665’s
contents are both accessible and amusing, which makes this a great -- and
fun -- release. Great title and cover concept, as well.
Don Imus - This Honky's Nuts
Bang II Records
Don Imus’ radio comedy was the rage in the ’70s, and this is a reissue
of one of his early live shows. While surely humorous at the time of its
original release, 1974, this album suffers now from being overly dated.
The topical humor is obviously not as amusing as it was at the time, while
much of the "more shocking" and vulgar material seems quite mild in today’s
market. Unless you’re a comedy collector, I’d steer clear of this one,
as there are a lot funnier choices out there for your money.
Obituary - Dead
Roadrunner Records
This live release from thrashmasters Obituary showcases a host of their
heaviest tracks recorded on the road. A blistering set from start to finish,
well-recorded and with ample crowd participation and frenzy. This Tampa
outfit can bang with the best of them, "Threatening Skies" and "Final Thoughts"
are (un)living proof... this one packs a wallop!
Auberon - The Tale of Black
Black Mark Production
Gothic metal, with dual vocals, one gruff and grizzly, the other haunting
and surreal. The drumming is top notch and the rhythms complex but steady.
"The Dance" and "The White Ship" are two of the standout tracks on this
metal opus. Auberon have yet to make much of a name for themselves on this
side of the big pond, but this release should do the trick. Quality metal
with enough bite to satisfy the thrashers and enough substance to stick
around. Hunt this one down.
Rob Zombie - Hellbilly Deluxe
Geffen Records
A lot heavier than the White Zombie stuff, Rob lets loose on this devilishly
pleasing solo release. Powerful thrash with great musicians and killer
rhythms. Toss in the usual satanic references and vulgarities, and you’ve
got a hardcore release with commercial firepower. Being all too familiar
to listeners already, Rob Zombie will have no problem marketing this one;
they’ll be flying out the doors. A solid release.
John Russo - Two Weeks From Tuesday
Musicreations Records
Bluesy adult contemporary boasting superb guitarwork and better than average
vocals. The tracks range from soft balladeering to smoking blues, with
great lyrics, production and delivery. John’s voice is nicely suited to
the material, and the material itself is top shelf. One of the most pleasant
surprises I’ve come across all year, this is an excellent album with a
great feel. Not a dog in the bunch.
Bruce Dickinson - The Chemical Wedding
CMC International Records
Another killer from Bruce Dickinson, The Chemical Wedding boasts
great riffing and a hard rockin’ foundation. It’s a throwback to eighties
metal, which is a pleasant switch from the over-the-top thrash market of
today. While I was never a big fan of Bruce when he was fronting Maiden,
his albums since departure have been nothing short of brilliant. This one
is no exception. "King in Crimson," "Killing Floor," and "Trumpets of Jericho"
are among the most enticing tracks, showcasing Bruce at his best, and he's
backed by a group of musicians that can more than hold their own in the
metal marketplace. Don’t miss this one!
Joey Welz - Retro Pop/Retro Rock
Caprice International Records
This release on Joey’s own label doesn’t have much to offer that hasn’t
already been heard. He offers up a host of retro "hits," from "Sweet Pea"
and "Last Kiss" to "Takin’ Care of Business" and "Old Time Rock and Roll."
Joey makes a solid effort to avoid playing "copycat" on these cuts and
adding his own little twists -- the only problem is, you’ll favor the originals.
Sorry, Joey, it’s a swing and a miss.
Lorrie Morgan - Secret Love
BNA Records
Secret Love is a diversion for Lorrie, as she tackles 11 standards
with relative ease. Long a fan of her strong vocals on her hit country
releases, they pale in comparison to the tracks covered here. As a country
singer, Lorrie is one of the best, as a torch singer, she is incredible.
>From "Summer of '42" to "An Affair to Remember," these cuts overflow with
emotion, while Ms. Morgan’s rich, sultry voice draws the listener in. If
you’re expecting twang, pass this by; if you want some seriously romantic
and soulful delivery, don’t miss this. Outstanding!
Blue Flannel - XL
Universal Records
This Columbus, Georgia newcomer boasts quirky rhythms, steady drumwork
and nifty guitars, along with the occasional kazoo. The lyrics are at times
hilarious, and the playing ranges from ever-so-soft to wildly intense.
Tracks such as "Havin’ a Bad Day," "Out of Habit," and "Not My Type" tend
to defy categorization, while their liner notes explain "THIS IS NOT ALTERNATIVE."
So for sake of argument, I’ll call them mild-core/pop! Whatever you decide,
I think you’ll find them quite enjoyable, and mildly amusing.
NOTE: Due to space constraints, the following reviews were not included
in the print edition of Geoff Wilbur's Renegade Newsletter.
These reviews are only available here in the online edition.
Lorrie Morgan - The Essential Lorrie Morgan
BNA Records
Lorrie Morgan’s sultry voice, and diverse sounds, have covered everything
from hardcore country, to seductive ballads, each with equally satisfying
results. This album highlights her vocal talents amazingly well, by including
not only her hits, but fresh tracks, a re-recording of her fathers trademark,
"Candy Kisses," and even a duet with her father which was recorded years
ago, before Lorrie’s own career took off. A great release which goes a
long way to proving that Ms. Morgan is one of the premiere female vocalists,
on the country scene today. Very Impressive.
W.A.S.P - Double Live Assassins
CMC International Records
Unlike their previous effort, Live In The Raw, this album smokes
for an hour and a half, plus! Consisting of material from their debut album,
up to the present, this is a high energy, well recorded document of the
bands history to this point. From the opening chords of "On Your Knees,"
this release kicks you straight in the face and doesn’t let up ‘til you’ve
been "Rock ‘n’ Roll(ed) To Death." Chris Holmes guitarwork is vicious,
and Blackie Lawless has rarely sounded better. This live outing captures
the shock metal kings at their peak, with a good selection of tracks, and
strong performances throughout. I only wish they sounded this good back
when I caught them live. Good stuff.
Iron Maiden - Virtual XI
CMC International Records
Maiden’s latest doesn’t venture far from their formulaic past. "Epic" length
tracks, there are just eight cuts here, that cover a wide variety of subject
matter, from virtual reality and science fiction, to "historical" subjects
such as the Falklands war. Fans of the band will be pleased, though I doubt
this release will draw much new attention to the band. The playing is tight,
as always, and Blaze Bayley’s vocals are more relaxed than on their previous
effort. Two tracks worth noting are the retro sounding "The Angel And The
Gambler" and "The Clansman", a musical "Braveheart," if you will. Though
it lacks any real surprises, Virtual XI is a solid effort.
Accept - The Final Chapter
CMC International Records
After 20 years and extensive lineup changes, this "poor man’s Priest" is
finally hanging up their hats. As a "tribute" to their fans, they’ve released
this double live set of classic cuts to ease the passing. This 2 disc set
features twenty tracks, from "Fast As A Shark" and "Breaker," to the more
recent "Beast Inside" and "Death Row." This band has long been blistering
on stage, and this outing captures their anthemic power, synchronized riffing,
and wall shaking rhythms, as well as the frenzy of the fans. It benefits
from a better than average live mix, and its coverage of a career, and
not just their recent past. A great anthology for the headbangers, and
a nice epitaph to one of the truly great live bands of our time. I, for
one, will miss them.
Deicide - Serpents of the Light
Roadrunner Records
Fans of over-the-top death metal need look no further than Deicide’s latest.
Evil, wicked, and blistering, this black metal offering holds all you’d
expect. Glen Benton, Eric and Brian Hoffman and drummer Steve Asheim take
listeners on a journey through hell. Bashing Christianity and preaching
their satanic philosophies has become this bands standard, but they manage
to avoid the blood and guts mentality of most death bands, and keep the
name-dropping to a minimum. This is as good an example of death done right
as you’re liable to find. "Slave To The Cross" and "Believe The Lie" are
first rate.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra - The Christmas Attic
Atlantic/Lava Records
This is the second seasonal outing for TSO, and is another holiday masterpiece.
Picking up where Christmas Eve and Other Stories left off, this
is another Christmas "opera" concept album. The story follows an angels
assignment to return to earth and leave something behind for mankind. A
young girl and a couple on the outs way heavy in the story.
Musically this epic offers an amazing blend of progressive metal, classical,
and traditional holiday fare, blended to create a breathtaking modern symphony.
The mastermind of Savatage producer Paul O’Neill, members of the band
team up with studio vocalists and adult and children's choirs, the end
result being a modern holiday masterpiece.
While last year's offering held a harder edge, this release is no less
impressive, both lyrically and musically. I still favor the instrumentals
such as "Boughs of Holly" and "Appalachian Snowfall." TSO is a rare holiday
treat!
John Hamilton - Two Step Texas Reindeer
Wizard Records
John Hamilton’s rich baritone lends itself well to a host of holiday favorites,
along with a few new treats. The title track is a western swing number,
catchy, and imaginative. "Ain't No Grave" and "Jesus Tree" are gospel holiday
numbers, that bookend the bouncier fare in between. Trading the traditional
strings for steel guitars and fiddles, this is a nice change of pace for
the season.