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Welcome to the Kweevak.com music review
archive. Please enjoy the new monthly music reviews and visit the
older write-ups through the links below. We are now reviewing hundreds of
CDs per year on the Kweevak's Tracks website. Find out how to get listed on
Kweevak.com today! Do you have a recently released CD that you
would like to have considered for review on The Galaxy's Guide to Web
Music? BOB
HILLMAN WELCOME TO MY CENTURY: Welcome to My Century
is the second release from singer/songwriter Bob Hillman. Hillman has been
touring with Suzanne Vega and is also performing solo in support of his
own music. Bob's interests and influences vary from alternative rock,
books, punk rock to Bob Dylan. Hillman is an award-winning writer who pens
funny, ironic songs that are honest and humorous. His latest thirteen
track CD is a delicate blend of upbeat pop and folk rock sounds. Bob's
lyrics are insightful short stories that are skillfully produced by Tommy
West. Hillman is joined by other talented musicians to complement his
expressive raspy vocals. Bob and the band create texture tones and songs
that are both thought provoking yet comic. Hillman writes about
relationships, politics and literature. Of particular interest is
'Greenland' an intelligent song that incorporates geography facts with a
girl's wrongdoing. The hook line "you're twice as cold as Greenland" is
accented with clever guitar rifts. The song is cutting edge cool.
'Tolstoy' is a deep dark trip complete with astute lyrics and intriguing
instrumentation. 'Bolted Down' has an upbeat tempo, in your face guitars
and witty lyrics about neuroses in New York City. Welcome to My
Century is a storytelling melting pot of skilled musicianship and
serious yet often comical compositions that are sure to please. CHRISIE SANTONI GOING HOME: Going
Home is the debut CD from singer/songwriter and guitarist Chrisie
Santoni. Chrisie has been performing since age seven. Santoni is currently
working with producer and Jethro Tull keyboardist Andrew Giddings on an
album that should be out early 2003. She has played the coffeehouse
circuit in New York and has graced the stage at the legendary Stone Pony.
Chrisie has a tattoo on her left ring finger as a constant reminder that
she is married to her music. Santoni's craftsmanship is apparent in her
songs, which are a blend of rock, soul and funky pop. She has been
compared to Janis Joplin and Jewel but has her own unique style. Her
vocals are crisp, clear wild and passionate. 'Fall For Me' has a catchy
beat, textured guitars and versatile vocals. 'Who I Am' has groovy
guitars, an energizing beat, reflective lyrics and varied vocals. Going
Home is roots rock that combines empathy, energy and talent into a
diverse collection of tracks with a good vibe. CRAIG BICKHARDT EASY FIRES: Easy
Fires is the latest release from singer/songwriter Craig Bickhardt.
Craig has sewn an interesting music tapestry. Heavily influenced by the
California music scene of the 1970's, he absorbed ideas from The Eagles,
Jackson Browne and CS&N. He played the east coast club circuit and in
time was opening for the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Stephen Stills.
Later he moved to LA to perfect his writing skills and eventually moved to
Nashville. Over the years he has penned songs and hits for a variety of
artists including Art Garfunkle, Anne Murray and Martina McBride. Craig
creates beautiful soundscapes through his articulate, visual lyrics. His
vocals are clear, smooth and soulful. Bickhardt writes about love, loss,
spirit and everyday events that are conveyed in timeless images and
haunting melodies. Craig weaves rock, folk, country and Celtic into
amazing arrangements. Craig is supported by talented musicians and expert
production on this twelve-track compilation. The title track 'Easy Fires'
has a Celtic flare, haunting vocals, powerful lyrics and soft subtle
instrumentation. 'Sugarcane Street' is an idyllic place with crisp imagery
and eloquent lyrics "time seems to flow slow as molasses, past row upon
row of white weathered fences, where kind neighbors meet". The mandolin
and fiddle adds to the dreamy peaceful flow of this scene. 'I Can't Turn
the Tide' ebbs and flows on the sweet sound of flutes, birds and the
Autoharp. Beautiful backing vocals, by Wendy Waldman drifts effortlessly
into Craig's silky sound. Poetic lyrics explain the reality that we can't
always change things. Easy Fires is a blaze of poetry, expert
instrumentation and passionate vocals! GEOFF ACHISON CHASING MY TAIL: Chasing My
Tail is the latest CD from award winning blues man Geoff Achison.
Geoff has a deep sexy husky voice so well suited to the blues and his
magic fingers fly and caress the fret with raw energy and emotion. Geoff
has been touring extensively for the past few years, in which two highly
acclaimed live collections were gleaned. Achison returned to Australia in
2002 to work on this studio release. Chasing My Tail is a versatile
recording featuring diverse styles of tradition blues, rock, jazz, funk,
soul and string instruments. This CD demonstrates Geoff's growth and
experimentation as an artist. Yet, it is still true to the commanding
guitar based music that he has become so well known and respected for.
This twelve-track collection features ten originals and two remarkable
covers. The songs vary from gentle love songs to power jam blues. The
production and musicianship by Souldiggers, Horns From Hell and the
orchestras are skilled and dynamic. The opening 'Chance' is laced with
heavy horns, textured tones, a steady beat and subtle but superb guitars.
'Begging Bowl' is a soulful song with sultry guitars and fluid
instrumentation. 'Chasing My Tail' and 'Whipping Post' are creative
interpretations of other well-known songs. The title track has a solid
blues tone with funky bass lines and precise percussion. The Allman's
classic is an orchestrated version filled with passion and energy and
accented by Geoff's guitar and gravely vocals. Chasing My Tail
brilliantly blends a variety of styles to create a flavorful mix of music
in which Geoff Achison, guitar great shines. HACHA HACHA: Hacha is the self-titled
CD from Hacha - a southern "chant" rock band. Hacha is four longtime
friends who have played hundreds of live shows perfecting their craft and
establishing a solid following. This nine track collection is written and
produced by the band and has a raw experimental flare that is just plain
fun. Hacha builds on the foundation of great rock music from the 60's and
70's, including jam bands such as The Allman Brothers. Their sound is
reminiscent of the Black Crowes since Hacha's lead singer Chris Bell who
is also the rhythm guitar player, sometimes sounds like Chris Robinson.
Charles Etienne provides upbeat percussions. Lead guitar and bass are
expertly handled by Harold Papineau and Mike Murphy, respectively.
Although Hacha's sound follows the road of classic rock music they take
off on their own unique journey. A good example of this is track two
entitled 'Borrowed Time' that has Led Zeppelin like riffs but soon drifts
off into original solid rock guitar solos. 'Ladia-Mine' has a lot of
interesting bridge changes, a blasting beat and explosive guitars. 'Take a
Bow' starts off with some weird Hendrix like stuff and flows into a beat
laden part that meanders into some cool spacey like guitars. Hacha, which
is a combination of the names Harold and Charles, is alchemy of classic
rock with a hard modern edge, a funky flare in an original
formula. INDIEGO MUSIC CENTER NEW MUSIC SAMPLER VOLUME
ONE: New Music Sampler Volume One is a compilation of
indie releases. Indigo Music Center in connection with cdstreet.com
"promotes, markets and distributes independent music. They provide secure
order processing for artist websites and sell music items for many tastes
and interests." Volume One is a 15-track epic filled with solid rock
material merging with a variety of genres such as alternative, jazz, and
pop. I enjoyed all the diverse music on this CD. All the tracks are
professionally produced and feature intriguing lyrics, solid
instrumentation and a wide range of vocal styles. Volume One opens with
established singer/songwriter and guitarist Nils Lofgren, who is well know
for his work with Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen. 'Puttin Out Fires' is
a smoking example of Nil's potent and prolific guitar style. This song
rocks with a solid beat and souring guitar solos. Lofgren is book ended by
the power trio known as RIFT. 'Party On The Autobahn' has fast paced
guitars, a driving beat and moving vocals. Volume One also showcases a
number of strong female singers fronting bands or working as solo artists.
Lynn Frances Anderson sings soulfully on 'Beautiful Morning' that includes
great guitar work and fine fiddles. It has a rocking beat with a touch of
country and sultry vocals. Volume One is a viable venue to further indie
music in a fun and diverse format. I hope that this will be one of many
more collections put out by Indiego Music Center. JOHN
MONTGOMERY ONE STEP AWAY: One Step Away is the debut
release from singer/songwriter John Montgomery. John also plays acoustic
guitar on all of his original nine compositions and a Bob Dylan cover. Bob
has been a major influence on John and his writing. Interestingly,
Montgomery spent many years studying neurobiology and was planning on
becoming a scientist when the call to play music became stronger and
stronger. John's songs are a nice blend of alternative folk, a touch of
pop and well-balanced melodies. He is supported by other talented
musicians on a wide assortment of instruments including the dorbo, the lap
steel, the organ, the cello, the xaphoon and the accordion. His songs are
mulit-layered and textured because of the variety of sounds used. One
Step Away is expertly produced. John has clear concise vocals and
writes reflective, poetic lyrics that are intimate and well arranged. This
CD has a mellow soft flow. The set opens with 'Not Now, Not Ever' with its
upbeat rock tempo, intriguing lyrics and heartfelt vocals. 'One Step Away'
has a smooth slightly spooky feel, a catchy hook line and enchanting
instrumentation, which includes the lap steel and B3 organ. 'In the
Mirror' reflects poignant words executed with expressive vocals and subtly
accented with the cello. John writes musical montages that tell
interesting stories in an honest and original forum. Hopefully, this CD is
just the first step of many for this talented songwriter. JULIA BROWN JUBILANT NEWBORN ALIEN HAZE:
Jubilant Newborn Alien Haze is the debut CD from singer/songwriter
Julia Brown. Julia's music is an eclectic mix of rock, pop, urban and
progressive complete with power-packed vocals. Brown was heavily
influenced by the 80's British scene. She sites Elvis Costello, Roxy and
Crowed House as some of the many bands that shaped her unique sound. Julia
writes honest passionate lyrics that are sometimes angry but are filled
with strength clarity and good grooves. Brown has a wide vocal range and
sings with passion and might. She is supported by skilled musicians who
provide great guitars, powerful percussion and clever keys. This ten-track
collection is filled with well-written, expertly produced songs that each
has synergy but a unique vibe. Each composition has a distinctive
personality built on emotional foundations and culminating into musical
montages. 'Afterglow' has a funky beat, grinding guitars, versatile vocals
and energizing hook lines. This song just grabs you and keeps on glowing
long after the closing lines. It is followed by 'Invisible' a passionate,
soulful lament of losing someone when they are most needed. The band
provides just the right subtle tones and textures to convey loneliness and
sadness. 'Coffee In Your Teacup' is another prime example of Julia's
writing skills combined with balanced arrangements and beautiful melodies.
Jubilant Newborn Alien Haze is a celebration of intelligent lyrics,
intense vocals and prime musicianship from rising star Julia
Brown! RICHARD MCGRAW HER SACRED STATUS MY MILITNAT
NEEDS: Her Sacred Status My Militant Needs is the latest
release from New York state singer/songwriter Richard McGraw. Richard also
plays acoustic guitar on this self produced CD. Richard has been
influenced by many artists including Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan. This
sixteen-track collection is divided into four sections addressing issues
in a thematic order. Richard writes honest lyrics that are placed in stark
musical arrangements. Many of the songs are simply McGraw singing softly
while playing the acoustic guitar. Others have subtle instrumentation to
create a restrained beat and subtle tones. Richard writes intelligent
lyrics that are introspective but speaks honestly of the human condition.
This CD has a dark reflective mood that is executed with sincerity,
clarity and depth. 'Sidetrack' has a delicate flow pouring into lyrics
that are pensive and candid. 'Newburgh' is a powerful analysis of a town
and disenchantment but ends with the hopeful statement "It's a fine night
to be." It has a faint raw energy that captures the imagination. This song
also includes soft subtle bass lines provided by Rick McCurdy. Her
Sacred Status My Militant Needs is a unique collection of sincere
well-written songs executed in a simplified but distinctive musical
format. RIPLEY CAINE LOVER: Lover is the
second full-length release from award winning singer songwriter Ripley
Caine. She is based out of the Chicago area and has toured the United
States and the world with her unique blend of power rock and poignant
melodies. Ripley also plays acoustic guitar on this eleven track CD and is
supported by skilled musicians on electric guitar, bass, percussions, keys
and piano. Ripley writes provocative lyrics that are multi-layered and her
songs are expertly produced. She successfully mixes alternative edginess
with rock and folk. Caine has been compared with Joni Mitchell and Jim
Morrison based on her sweet wide vocal range as well as her raw passionate
style. The CD starts with 'Hey Mister' a deep reflective song about
loneliness accented with a steady solid beat and dramatic guitars. 'Labor
Day' has a catch groove, poetic lyrics dynamic vocal expressions and tight
instrumentation. 'Monkey in the Middle' is haunting, anguished and
complete with musical changes and textures. Ripley Caine is a versatile
singer who effectively merges genres into intriguing storytelling.
Lover is a passionate collection of stimulating songs that are
honestly and soulfully executed. THE
POSSIBILITIES WAY OUT: Way Out is the latest release
from The Possibilities. This budding five-man band consists of two
guitars, bass, drums and keys. Each member is credited with songwriting
and all sing. Thus their sound varies based on layered multi-part
harmonies, individual vocalists and wonderful triple lead vocals. Way
Out incorporates many musical styles and eras. The Possibilities
alternate their vintage guitars, amps and tube mikes to create a classic
crisp sound. In addition to a 5 Vox the keyboardist plays Wurlitzer,
Farfisa and Hammond organs to craft a range of moods. Thrown in for fun
they use distortion, fuzz and echoes. Their music is a blend of rock, pop,
retro and progressive mixed in with hooks, catchy choruses and a touch of
southern twang. 'Invisible' the opening track starts off and flows on
organ music that reminds me of a festive carnival. The song is layered and
the multi-part vocals are a pageant. 'Invisible' has aptly been described
as "Phil Spector meets the Beach Boys." 'Coming in Waves' hits you with a
driving drum roll keeping time with funky keys and gyrating guitars. This
is a great contemporary retro song that washes over you. 'What Makes You
Run' has a harder more modern edgy sound surrounding dazzling vocals and
solid instrumentation. The Possibilities have lots of potential and Way
Out is a promising collection of musical genres and vocal
blends. |
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