Showing posts with label Rock n' Roll. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rock n' Roll. Show all posts

Sunday, July 26, 2026

Badzy - ...To The Bone


You've surely seen some of the rave reviews for ...To The Bone, the debut album from New Orleans-based Badzy. I sure don't disagree with anything I've read about this record. Three years in the making, ...To The Bone is pure energy and catchiness from start to finish. It hits that sweet spot where power pop, glammy punk rock 'n' roll, and big, hooky arena rock all crash into each other at full speed. There's no pretension to what these guys are doing. They are throwbacks to a time when rock 'n' roll was loud and fun but never afraid to be radio friendly. This is a great record to throw on when you're having a good time or want to be having a good time. The band's sound is the epitome of powerful pop, and it's plenty gritty enough to fit nicely within the underground punk rock 'n' roll bubble. But you can also tell that there's some Def Leppard, KISS, and Cheap Trick in its spiritual DNA. Sometimes the key with rock 'n' roll is not taking yourself too seriously but being damn serious about the craft of songwriting. Tracks like "Say That You Will," "Say You're Ready," and "Ain't That Enuff" would be radio hits in some alternative timeline where they still play real rock 'n' roll on commercial radio. "Shadows" is full-on classic power pop. "Ripped Outta Time" and "Bad Til I Die" venture into heavy metal territory without a trace of irony and kick all kinds of ass. This is an absolutely killer album. I can't help but be reminded of the early 2010s when the likes of The Mandates, Barreracudas, and WYLDLIFE were just coming on the scene. This year in music continues to please!

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Thursday, July 16, 2026

Amplifier Heads - Super 8


Smack dab in the middle of this most wonderful year for music — a year in which many have observed that real deal rock 'n' roll has come back with a vengeance — it seems fitting that we would be treated to a new full-length album from The Amplifier Heads. Super 8 releases tomorrow on the world-famous Rum Bar Records. It is, by my count, the band's sixth LP. And it's almost certainly the finest effort yet from Sal Baglio and friends. It's essentially a sonic journey through rock 'n' roll history — a history that is, in fact, still being written. As you would expect from an Amplifier Heads album, the menu is packed with a variety of popular flavors. You'll hear hints of everything from the blues and first generation rock 'n' roll to the British Invasion to garage rock to power pop to glam rock to the Rolling Stones to OG punk rock. If the firecracker opening track "Rock N' Roll Riot" had been the whole record, Baglio could have dropped the mic and declared victory. But that's just a starting point, and Super 8 keeps on bringing the hits. Life is too short to waste on filler. 

Off the bat, "Rock N' Roll Riot" is a pure jolt of raucous energy to get you moving and shaking and dominating your day. It literally starts at the beginning — time-traveling back to the Moondog Coronation Ball in Cleveland in 1952 and rocketing forward into the world-altering sonic explosion that soon followed. On the sexy and sticky-sweet "Hot Stars," the time machine stops off in the early '70s for a rendezvous with Marc Bolan. "A Song Called Sha La La" takes it back to the '60s and slyly pilfers a melody from The Troggs. Baglio, as he longs for someone out there to write another timeless rock 'n' roll radio smash, proceeds to will that very thing into existence. Just like that, you've got an opening 1-2-3 punch that few albums will ever beat. But wait! There's more! "They Don't Dance Anymore" is a reflective ballad longing for a time when rock 'n' roll ruled the airwaves and all the kids still knew how to groove. "A Girl Named Chop Suey" is kickin' livewire garage rock that winks and nods in the direction of "Louie Louie." "Can't Put My Finger On It," which is a little bit country and a whole lot of rock 'n' roll, is an earworm of master class status. "Superstar" sounds like the best song Dave Edmunds never wrote. "Hot Wax" takes us back to a moment in time when rock 'n' roll was climbing mischievously out of the womb of rhythm and blues — a suitable last stop on this full circle journey through time and sound. 

It's hard not to look back at last year's tremendous Peppermint Kicks album Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum (which Baglio co-authored) and note that Super 8 seems to have been made from the same magical stuff. Sometimes The Amplifier Heads sound like an intergalactic rock machine, but on this record, they're sticking to Planet Earth and the scorching sounds that pumped new life into it in the latter half of the 20th century. As a songwriter, Baglio has never sounded more inspired. Joined by Kevin "King" Rapillo on drums and Brad Hallen on bass (along with some special guest stars on a few tracks), he exemplifies everything that rock 'n' roll ought to be and still can be. There's no need for bells and whistles when you can conjure this sort of glorious and rousing racket that comes roaring out of the garage and into the dive bars and dance halls. These guys truly put their soul into this record, and the joy is palpable in every note. This is the work of a child of the '60s who fondly recalls the majestic past but isn't resigned to being stuck in it. 

Is Super 8 a throwback record? Yes and no. The whole point of all this time traveling is to remind ourselves why we still love rock 'n' roll and why we all remain so passionate about its preservation. All of you out there playing in bands, running labels, promoting music, buying records, hosting radio shows, writing reviews, and going out to see bands don't even have to question why you do it. This is the music that sets our souls on fire. Who wants to live in a world without rock 'n' roll? Thankfully we'll never have to (as the first half of 2026 has made evident). Gather 'round, true believers, and behold the gospel according to The Amplifier Heads!

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Tuesday, July 07, 2026

Tiger Bomb - 15 Super Hits


You have to love an album with the name 15 Super Hits. Right off, you know to expect nothing more and nothing less than fun and timeless rock 'n' roll. There will be no robot voices or seven-minute songs about dragons. You know that when you put that record on, you'll soon be dancing and singing along and generally having a great time. Tiger Bomb, a band co-fronted by Chris Horne from garage rock legends The Brood and Lynda Mandolyn from Fabulous Disaster, has been at it for nearly a decade now. I am more than a little chagrined that I've never previously reviewed this band that was practically tailor-mode for this blog. But the great thing about being a fan of music is that it's never too late to get hip (pun intended) to all kinds of good stuff. With a lineup rounded out by Amanda Ayotte (Legendary Unknowns) on bass and Jessica Smith (The Resistance) on drums, the Portland, Maine–based Tiger Bomb plays upbeat & infectious garage rock influenced by girl groups, punk rock, power pop, and classic pop and rock 'n' roll. Yeah, I know: that sounds like something I would be into! Out on the legendary Get Hip Recordings, the aptly named 15 Super Hits features 15 original songs that could easily pass for covers of forgotten '60s classics.  

The singing and songwriting partnership between Horne and Mandolyn is one of the things that really makes Tiger Bomb special. The former's songs are mostly high-energy garage rock shakers, while the latter's lean more towards power pop. But Horne's songs still have killer hooks, and Mandolyn's songs still pack plenty of punch. And all these songs go together splendidly. It never feels like you're listening to two different bands. Both of these women could carry (and have carried) a band as the lead songwriter, but they sure are dynamite together. I can't think of one song I would want to subtract from the track list, and even a healthy collection of 15 songs leaves me wanting more. 

Given the individuals involved, it's hardly a surprise that Tiger Bomb is such a fantastic band. But this group is more than just the sum of its parts. These four women get rock 'n' roll, and as a unit, they are an absolute ball of fire. They are masters of their craft, yet they play with the energy and enthusiasm of teenagers in the garage. Many of you are reading this and thinking, "What took you so long, dude?" The rest of you will be wondering how quickly you can acquire Tiger Bomb's full discography. Happy shopping!

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Wednesday, July 01, 2026

Songs From The Film* - "She Don't Mind"/"Waiting For the World to Explode"


I didn't have much time to cry in my beer over the sudden split of The Cheap Cassettes. Charles Matthews has already launched his new solo project Songs From The Film* (who doesn't love a good Tommy Keene reference every once in a while?). A debut single (and video!) have been unleashed on this very blessed day. Are you ready? Are you excited? 

The beauty of recording solo material is that it doesn't necessarily have to fit in with any particular band or even any particular genre of music. You can just write the songs that are in your heart. Whatever comes out is whatever comes out! My history with writing about Charles's music now dates back 30 years. We were both young men then. Now, we're somehow still young men since 55 is the new 30. The first thing I'll say about this single is that it sounds like Charles. This is him on a plate that you'll absolutely want to eat up. This isn't specifically a punk rock project or a power pop project, but you can hear elements of both — along with all that bubblegum glam rock and big hair new wave pop we all grew up on. Anyone who loved the Dimestore Haloes and Cheap Cassettes will recognize Charles's signature style and voice. It's not like this is his Metal Machine Music. He's still in the familiar territory of hooky three-chord rock 'n' roll with punchy guitars. But at the same time, this is something a little different. You can hear Charles experimenting a little with his guitar tone, vocals, and the overall vibe. The guitar riffs on "She Don't Mind" are by themselves worth the price of admission. 

Upbeat and rockin,' "She Don't Mind" is a more conventional loud pop love song and certified smash. I literally laughed out loud at the entire first verse — not just because of the cleverness of it all but also because I recognized my own experience in those lines. If you can find your person who can put up with all your weirdness and return it with their own wonderful weirdness, that's a priceless, beautiful thing. A line like "And the day we met, I knew I'd be your singin', dancin' clown" hits me so hard that it gives me chills. If that's a little too much feelgood for your tastes, the mid-tempo rocker "Waiting For the World to Explode" ought to be very much to your liking. Who can't relate to a song about being so disenchanted with living in this dystopian timeline that you start thinking that the complete obliteration of the world might be a best-case scenario? Tailgating the apocalypse with a six-pack of Corona would be half-hearted; a 12-pack, though, is a full commitment. I love social commentary, sarcasm, and dark humor. Put them all together, and you've got pure gold. 

Recording by yourself has to be way harder than it seems. You are responsible for getting every detail right, and you're likely to be far more critical of yourself than you'd be of bandmates. When it comes to all those hours spent rehearsing and recording in solitude, you better damn well hope you like the company. It takes a special temperament and skill set to excel as a solo artist. For every George Michael, there are ten Stings. Thankfully, Charles Matthews is the antithesis of Sting. When I first heard "She Don't Mind," I knew that he had freaking nailed it with this new project. It was an immediate "Holy shit! This is good!" reaction. And before I could consider that maybe I was just a weirdo with funny taste in music, bona fide movers and shakers like Malibu Lou and Ryan Meyers had joined the fan club too. I'll gladly throw my lot in with those guys. Songs From The Film* has come out firing like a rocket. Digital is available now from the mighty Rum Bar Records. Vinyl is coming soon from Sioux Records. And how cool is that music video? Add the title of "filmmaker" to Charles's resume!

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Sunday, June 14, 2026

Andresa One Man Band - Nothing But R'N'R

Andresa One Man Band is the new band from Andresa Nugraha, formerly of The Battlebeats. How does a one-man band break up? Well, it was simply time to move on to a new project with a slightly different musical direction. Nothing But R'N'R is the debut release from Andresa One Man Band and the inaugural release on his new label, Junglestomp Records. The progression from The Battlebeats to Andresa One Man Band is not exactly a radical shift. Andresa is still in that stripped-down, blown-out garage punk lane. But in terms of style, the title of the EP says it all. This is more straight-forward, down-and-dirty rock 'n' roll inspired largely by bands from the American South like Oblivians, Reatards, and The Persuaders (who are covered twice on this release). The title track is a song about having nothing in life going for you except for rock 'n' roll. A lot of you can relate to that! "Let's Rock & Roll With My One Man Band" is essentially Andresa's new theme song, and it's glorious. "Can't Stop Thinking About You" is something you rarely if ever heard from The Battlebeats: an honest-to-goodness love song! This is a different kind of energy compared to The Battlebeats, but it's safe to say that anyone who loved The Battlebeats will be on board with this stuff. These tracks totally rip! This guy never disappoints, and I'm excited to follow Junglestomp Records as it grows into a go-to label for Indonesian rock 'n' roll!

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Friday, May 22, 2026

The Amplifier Heads - "A Song Called Sha La La"

Given the world domination recently achieved by The Peppermint Kicks, I got distracted from the fact that Sal Baglio hadn't released any new songs from The Amplifier Heads since Rectifier came out at the end of 2022. Well, that situation has been, uh, rectified! "A Song Called Sha La La" is the brand-new single from The Amplifier Heads, and it's a red-hot, super-duper, intergalactic smash! Writing a great rock 'n' roll song about the dearth of great rock 'n' roll songs now being written is just about the most meta thing ever. But if you're going to do a song like this, this is how you do it! "A Song Called Sha La La" might be the best Amplifier Heads song ever, so you know that Sal is bringing it with all he's got. The whole spirit of the song is nicely summed up by lyrics like these:

Somebody write a song that we can sing
Get up and shout and not worry ‘bout who’s listening
Somebody write a few bars
That we can turn up loud in our cars
Somebody write a song that goes
Sha La La

Amen! With this song, The Amplifier Heads are fully in 1960s classic radio hit form. Just press play, and you've got pure pop majesty for three-and-a-half glorious minutes. For sure, this is a song you can sing, and it will quickly have you up and shouting. And of course you will want to turn it up loud in your car as you rock out with full vigor and care not what a fool you look like to all those smug observers who live sad lives devoid of the joy that rock 'n' roll brings. Also on board are rhythm players Kevin "King" Rapillo and Brad Hallen along with some special guest stars: Jeff "G-Man" Giacomelli on tenor sax and Carlos Menenzes Jr, Matthew Naeger, and Henley Douglas Jr from the mighty Jambalaya Horns! 

What do you do when you long for someone to write a song called "Sha La La"? You write a song called "A Song Called Sha La La," and it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy! Glenn Robinson's cover art is so on-point that I briefly thought it was a photo of an actual 45 record! And that gives you the vibe this song is going for. If you grew up plugging coins into jukeboxes and amassing stacks of vinyl singles in your bedroom, this will be your jam. Look for Super 8, the new Amplifier Heads album, on Rum Bar Records this summer!

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Friday, April 24, 2026

Inflatable Idols - GET STIFF!


Look out, kids: we've got a live one here! GET STIFF! is the ripper of a debut album from Los Angeles, California's Inflatable Idols. It's such a flaming hot slab of wax that it took three of the heaviest hitters in the game — Take the City Records, Ghost Highway Recordings, and your home of the hits, Rum Bar Records — to properly release it into the wild. Jim Perrault (The Legendary Swagger) is on lead vocals and bass, and he is joined by a murderers' row of Southern California punk rock royalty. Joe Jennings (JJ and the Real Jerks), Frank Agnew (Adolescents, T.S.O.L., Legal Weapon, Social Distortion), Brian Coakley (Cadillac Tramps), Greg Kuehn (T.S.O.L., Exploding Fuck Dolls, The Joneses), Derek O'Brien (Adolescents, Legal Weapon, T.S.O.L.), and Geoff Yeaton (Streetwalkin' Cheetahs) are all on board. They're joined by Tavis Werts (The Cineramas, Reel Big Fish) on trumpet and two of the finest vocal talents in L.A. in Belle Johnson and Mika Lett on backing vocals. To call this a "wow" lineup would be a massive understatement, and the music absolutely lives up to all that pedigree. 

On GET STIFF!, Inflatable Idols power through 12 tracks of gritty, high-energy rock 'n' roll that pulls from classic SoCal punk, garage rock, soul, dirty glam, and proto-punk. Style-wise, the band varies its attack, but the attitude and energy levels are relentless from open to close. Tracks like "Oxygen Thief," "Make Some Noise (Quiet As It's Kept)," and "Narcissistic Twist" are more on the flamethrower punk rock 'n' roll side of things — not too far from The Humpers in their prime. Elsewhere, "Get Up & Get Out" and "Hero to Zero" go the maximum R & B route. "Drunk On Nostalgia" is full fury garage rock cranked to ten. "Imaginary Monster" brings an old school Detroit rock energy that could just about wake the dead. "That's Mr. Motherfucker To You" manages to live up to its title, and that's saying something! 

It can be hard to pull of a record like this that's a wall-to-wall smash-it-up party. But Inflatable Idols do just that. There are no ballads, mood pieces, or departures from the mission to ignite your loins and soul with unadulterated rock 'n' roll. Get Stiff! never comes up for air, and who would want it to? The band is tight, but the spirit is loose. These folks bring it hard and unleash an absolute wall of sound with the horns, keyboards, and backing vocals hitting exactly the way they ought to. And on vocals, Perrault can holler with the best of 'em. Even though this is a studio record, I envision it as a live performance as I listen to it. It has all the sweat, swagger, and electricity of a must-see gig, and so I'm reaching for my dancing shoes and my stockpile of adult beverages. When you have this many super-talented people in a band, it's either going to be super-disappointing or just about the best thing ever. And you know where Inflatable Idols land. The way things are going, Rum Bar is soon going to need an office in L.A.!

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Friday, April 17, 2026

The Sideshows - self titled


Well 2026 continues to be a royal treat for my ears! Another essential album has arrived in the form of the much-anticipated debut long player from super-trio The Sideshows. The Sideshows are Rich Ragany and Simon Maxwell (The Loyalties, Role Models, Rich Ragany & The Digressions) teaming up with the beyond-legendary Sami Yaffa (Hanoi Rocks, Michael Monroe, Demolition 23, Jetboy, Jerusalem Slim, New York Dolls, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, etc.) to play real-deal rock 'n' roll for diehard romantics, beautiful losers, and true believers. 

This 10-track album, recorded at Yaffa's home studio in Mallorca, Spain, is yet another brilliant set of tunes in Rags' remarkable run of songwriting now stretching over the past decade and change. And to have these three individuals — whose talents and styles could not be more perfectly in sync — creating music together is something quite special to behold. The band was kind enough to preview four of these tracks in advance of the album release, and I must say that the remaining six numbers are every bit as good. The album is exactly what you'd be hope it would be: a filler-free parade of heartfelt, anthemic rockers with a singer/songwriter's soul and an arena band's energy. You can hear the influences of punk, glam, power pop, Americana, and hard rock, but ultimately this is rock 'n' roll that will make you still believe in rock 'n' roll. The album sounds fantastic, and these three form a tight power trio in the classic sense. It's hard to imagine me having much more room to be amazed by Rag's songs after all these years of spreading his gospel, but some of these tunes have absolutely floored me. Of course "Brand New" is a total anthem and a perfect album-opener. But then you have "Say Goodbye On A Night Like This," "This Could Be Everything," and "Rock and Roll Owes Me An Apology"  —  three of the best songs Rags has ever put his name on. "Smoke Show" has been stuck in my head for a week, and no medical remedy could change that. "Not Sorry," a powerful tribute to Rags' dear friend Scott Sorry, concludes the album in properly epic fashion. 

Sometimes, a lot of talent in a band doesn't quite produce the results you'd hope for. But in the case of The Sideshows, everything has clicked. Certainly it all starts with the songwriting. I wasn't sure Rags could ever produce another batch of songs to rival You Can Get Dark With Me, but he has done just that. Whatever fire has been lit in him these last few years is burning stronger than ever. And what songwriter and guitarist wouldn't dream of a Sami Yaffa/Simon Maxwell rhythm section? These three found magic in the Spanish countryside, and this album captures it in full. My friends and Europe can order the pink vinyl from Finland. Additional physical releases are coming soon! 

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Friday, April 03, 2026

Brad Marino - Agent of Chaos


Well look what we have here: the long-awaited fifth studio album from the man himself, Mr. Brad Marino! Out today on Spaghetty Town Records, Ghost Highway Recordings, and Beluga Records, Agent of Chaos will disappoint absolutely no one. If you're looking for a Brad Marino album that sounds like a Brad Marino album, this will hit the mark and then some. There's really nobody better at doing this sort of driving rock 'n' roll with a punk influence and pop hooks. Marino, backed by Gene Champagne, Bobby Davis, Zack Sprague, Ron Mullens, Dave Strong, James Cap Nunn, and Caity Marino, has delivered an album that may very well be his best yet. As always, his choruses are catchy, his guitar licks are tasty, and his lyrics are sneaky clever. Agent of Chaos comes through with a little something for everyone. From the classic '60s pop of "Dissin' and Dismissin'" to the straight Ramones energy of "Sick of You" to the country vibes of "Devil May Care" to the timeless rock 'n' roll of "I Don't Want You Anymore" to the Jesus and Mary Chain inspired dark-pop of "Murder and Violence" to the straight-forward power pop of "Voodoo" to the butt-kicking fury of "Calling Your Bluff" to the pure pop majesty of "Lost Without You" and "Make This Last," Marino hits all the sweet spots. The man sure can write a song, and he can always be counted on to sing and perform it with gusto. 

Given that it has been nearly two-and-half years since Grin and Bear It came out, fans have certainly been waiting a while for a new Brad Marino LP. And Agent of Chaos has turned out to be every bit worth the wait. It's hard to find a sub-par or even less-than-stellar track in the bunch. A Brad Marino LP is always a lock to be way up there on my end-of-the-year top albums list. Even in a year that's as insanely stacked as this one promises to be, Agent of Chaos will certainly end up near the top of the heap when I publish my final rankings. As consistent as Marino has been as a recording artist, it would be easy to overlook what a great run he's been on over the last several years. But that kind of dependability ought to be appreciated and enjoyed. Flavors of the month come and go, but tried-and-true, high-quality rock 'n' roll never goes out of style. Agent of Chaos is a monster of a record, and I can name three premier record labels that are literally vouching for that!

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Wednesday, April 01, 2026

The Peppermint Kicks - "Shaking Underground"


When I first heard that The Peppermint Kicks were releasing a new single on April Fool's Day, I got a little suspicious. Anything having to do with April 1st always has me on high alert. Who in the heck releases new music on a Wednesday? Was this going to be an elaborate prank? Would April 1st come and there'd be no single but maybe a triple album with all lyrics in Russian? Would it be branded as Peppermint Kicks but actually be some sort of Metal Machine Music type project? Would the new single just be a video recording announcing that the band is retiring from music to prepare for a mission to Mars? Well here we are, and it all seems legit. 

Out on the one-and-only Rum Bar Records, "Shaking Underground" not only sounds like The Peppermint Kicks, but it might also be the biggest smash hit that Dan Kopko and Sal Baglio have ever crafted together in their secret headquarters. Of course it's a power poppin' garage rock 'n' roll stomper, but this is no ordinary radio hit for an alternate universe. This, my friends, is a full-blown ANTHEM and a rousing call to action. It's an unflinching commentary on technology addiction and content oversaturation — and the hapless masses who find themselves manipulated, enslaved, and zombie-fied by all those sinister little devices. The irony that this song is largely being transmitted through devices is probably not lost on the band, but sometimes you've got to wage war with the weapons you've got. "Shaking Underground" is not all gloom and doom. It's a wake-up call, and it proposes a way out of this nightmare. No more fooling around! Joined by dynamo drummer Chuck Ferreira, Kopko and Baglio are in top form on this track. Sometimes it takes an irresistible tune to ensure that the message hits hard, and no doubt "Shaking Underground" will have you shaking and grooving with all you've got. What a freaking tune! Sometimes when all else fails, rock 'n' roll is the answer. There is another way. Let's give 'em hell to pay! 

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Saturday, March 21, 2026

Poison Suckers - Charmer

It's crazy that it has already been five years since the first Poison Suckers 7" came out. Today Jo Jo and Joe are back with a follow-up, and this thing is a stone-cold ripper that will melt your ears clean off your head. Out on Transistor 66, the 4-track EP Charmer finds Poison Suckers doing what they do best: mixing soul music and '60s girl group stylings with ferociously trashy garage punk rock 'n' roll. This band makes an art form out of lo-fi budget production, and the music is all raw energy and thrillingly primitive fury. 

"Slash Tires" is pure fire right out of the gate — like Tina Turner fronting the Oblivians playing an MC5 song. This tune explodes out of your headphones, and Joanne's vocal is just ridiculous. It gives me chills. "Charade" is old school girl group greatness without all the fancy production getting in the way. "Viper Winds" lays down some hip-shaking hillbilly blues stomp — think Southern gothic vibes transplanted to the chilly North. "I'm a Zero" caps things off with full-on garage rock fury. It's a banger of epic proportions. 

And that's that: four perfect songs that give you a little bit of everything you might be craving. I can think of no band that better understands or more fully brings to life the true spirit of rock 'n' roll. Of course this band has talent. These two have a great knack for writing songs that hit you in the gut yet also treat you to enthralling hooks. And there's a very limited number of humans on the planet who can sing like Joanne. But beyond the talent, it's the feeling and the fire in this music that is just so undeniable. Charmer will hit you deep in your soul. It's a record made to be played loudly and enjoyed thoroughly. It's an at-home dance party waiting to happen and a spirited soundtrack to whatever sinful activity you might be compelled to engage in. The EP will be officially released tonight at Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club in Winnipeg! 

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Saturday, March 14, 2026

The Dollyrots - "Attention Span"


How do The Dollyrots do it? After more than a quarter-century as a band, countless releases to their name, and thousands of live shows played, Kelly and Luis still hold on to the enthusiasm and style that made The Dollyrots such a breath of fresh air in the punky pop rock 'n' roll scene in the early 2000s. "Attention Span," the band's new single on Wicked Cool Records, is instantly recognizable as a Dollyrots song. It's a high energy blast of punchy punk-pop that pairs a sugar rush of hooks with very relatable lyrics about how this age of constant connection ultimately makes us feel more disconnected from one another. The single arrives in conjunction with the band's Spring Break From Reality Tour, which launched a couple days ago and continues through the 22nd of this month. Straight-up, this song is an earworm. But that's not a surprise, is it? Most of us could use a little break from reality right now, and "Attention Span" sends me on a three minute vacation to my happy place. Hit up The Dollyrots' web site for more tour info!

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Saturday, February 21, 2026

Brad Marino - "Calling Your Bluff"


The man is back, and he's bringing the heat! "Calling Your Bluff" is Brad Marino's third teaser single from his forthcoming fifth proper studio album, Agent of Chaos. He's been doling out something for everyone with these singles. "Voodoo" was probably the most straight-up power pop song he's ever done. "Murder and Violence" was like the Ramones meet the Jesus and Mary Chain (or maybe the other way around). And now "Calling Your Bluff" is nothing more and nothing less than hard-driving, kick-you-in-the-ass rock 'n' roll that'll get your toes tapping into next week. If you loved Marino's early solo stuff or his later songs with The Connection, this tune will be right up your alley. Bobby Davis and Gene Champagne lay down the rhythm with gusto while Marino wails away on guitar and spits fire. This is classic Brad Marino, and I am here for it! We've been waiting more than two years for another Marino solo long player, but all these recent singles have made it clear that our patience will be very much rewarded. Agent of Chaos will be out April 3rd on Spaghetty Town Records, Ghost Highway Recordings, and Beluga Records!

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Saturday, January 31, 2026

The Stripp - Life Imitates Art


At least 51% of music-related press releases are utterly cringeworthy. But this inspired spiel from Spaghetty Town Records on the new album from The Stripp was absolutely speaking my language: "Life Imitates Art sounds like the Aussie missing link between AC/DC, Cosmic Psychos, Radio Birdman and The Onyas." Well that sold me! On its second long player, the Melbourne-based foursome steps up from the straight-forward (albeit blistering) action rock of its debut and turns loose a powerhouse rock 'n' roll record with hooks for days. A co-release with Ghost Highway Recordings (Spain) and Beluga Records (Sweden), Life Imitates Art would be absolutely massive if they still played real rock 'n' roll on the radio. 

Fundamentally, The Stripp hasn't veered much at all from its steamrolling, high-energy approach to music. If you're looking for scorching lead guitar and a killer groove, you will be not be disappointed. But while this album brings just as much rock, it delivers a lot more roll. Certainly tracks like "Gotta Go," "Gone," and "MF from Hell" will have the action rock crowd thrashing in firm approval. Yet other songs find the band building off of the fast and furious punk rock 'n' roll blueprint in very satisfying ways. "If You Want Me To" and "Turn Back Time" would not sound out of place on your Joan Jett Pandora channel. "So Long" is kick-ass garage rock of the highest caliber. "Good for Me" is a great modern-sounding rocker with a chorus that will be stuck in your head all week. Album-closer "The End" is measured and haunting and totally unlike anything this band has done before. Bek Taylor has got insane pipes and undeniable star power, and I can absolutely see this album elevating The Stripp to a whole new level of recognition. Not an ounce of energy has been sacrificed, but the more polished production and progression in songwriting really works for this band. I don't have to say "I bet these songs would sound great live" because they also sound great on record! I can't wait to hear what Ted thinks of this album!

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Saturday, January 10, 2026

Brad Marino - "Murder and Violence"


I've been writing about Brad Marino's solo music for eight years now. You'd think that after that long, I wouldn't be so consistently amazed by the songs he puts into the universe. Yet my reaction to his new single "Murder and Violence" is the same reaction I had to "C'Mon C'Mon C'Mon" way back when: Holy cow, that's freaking great! I wanted to go running out into the street and start raving about what an awesome tune this is! When you expect a lot from a recording artist yet always feel like you got even more than you were hoping for, that tells you that you're dealing with an extraordinary talent. 

What I love about "Murder and Violence" is that it tweaks Marino's signature pop rock 'n' roll style just a little by adding a touch of The Jesus and Mary Chain influence. It also has a slower tempo than Marino tunes typically do. Perhaps most notably, the lyrics cut really deep. I've always thought that Marino was really underrated as a lyricist, but this is one of the few times I've heard him venture into true social commentary. The title alone tells you that he's writing about serious stuff. More specifically, he's talking about how compliantly we witness violence and all sorts of other horrible things on our screens and how easily we're swayed by the politicians and media personalities who spin these tragedies for their own benefit. In the wake of this weeks' events, the message is chillingly relevant. As Marino points out, no amount of wishing or praying will "make things all right."  

"Murder and Violence" is the second single from Marino's forthcoming LP, Agent of Chaos. Gene Champagne, Bobby Davis, Ron Mullens, Caity Marino, and Dave Strong back him on this track and do amazing work. Man, 2026 sure looks like it's gonna be another amazing year for music!

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Friday, January 02, 2026

Faz Waltz - Strikes Ten


Back with their tenth full-length album, Italian trio Faz Waltz remain all-in on the sound of first generation American rock 'n' roll. Strikes Ten is pure energy from the jump, summoning the spirits of Little Richard, Elvis, and Jerry Lee Lewis across 11 original songs that rip so hard that they could pass for covers of forgotten classics. Faz La Rocca continues to impress as a songwriter, singer, and pianist, and his rhythm section is absolute fire. While the rockers rule the day, La Rocca proves he can also shine as a crooner on more relaxed numbers like "Full Moon Serenade," "Lonesome Me," and "Little One." This is a fine example of a band knowing what kind of music it wants to make and executing it fantastically well. And unlike actual 1950s rock 'n' roll LPs, this one isn't three-quarters filler! Call it retro if you want, but Strikes Ten is a really good time and an inspired set of songs. It certainly doesn't hurt to have Brown Barcella, (arguably) the best music producer in modern-day rock 'n' roll, co-producing the album with La Rocca. My friends across the ocean can order the vinyl here! 

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Saturday, November 08, 2025

The Sideshows - "Brand New"/"The Start"


It's no secret that Rich Ragany is one of my favorite songwriters. I've had the pleasure of reviewing his music on ten occasions and interviewing him a couple times. He has made seven appearances on my top ten albums lists over the years (I'm pretty sure that's a record). A year without ole Rags in the F & L universe never feels quite right. And now we have something new and special on that front: the debut release from The Sideshows! This is a band comprised of Rags, his longtime drummer Simon Maxwell (Yo Yos, The Loyalties, Role Models), and the legendary Sami Yaffa (Hanoi Rocks, Michael Monroe, Jetboy, Jerusalem Slim, Demolition 23, New York Dolls, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, etc.). Now that, my friends, is a power trio! 

It all started with Yaffa inviting Rags to come to his home studio in Mallorca, Spain and record a couple of new tunes he'd been working on. And sure enough, Rags, Maxwell, and Yaffa caught lightning in a bottle. This wasn't just a Rich Ragany solo project — it was a new band! And so here we have "Brand New"/"The Start", released on European Phonographic. By now you ought to know what to expect: powerful, anthemic rock 'n' roll that's full of heart and soul. The lead track is a full-on Rags-style glam/punk/rock 'n' roll sing-along anthem. He's been writing songs like this for years, and it never stops being exciting. And how amazing is it to have Sami freaking Yaffa playing on a song like this? I've got chills! B-side "The Start" is another Rags specialty: a song that starts off sounding gentle and restrained, and then suddenly that chorus hits like a ton of bricks! These are both great songs, and the recording sounds amazing. I can't help visualizing these three guys rocking out in the Spanish countryside with the windows and doors wide open, bringing these songs to life in a way that Rags could never have foreseen. That sounds like the stuff of a future legend! This is likely not the last we'll hear from The Sideshows. For now, crank this debut loud and enjoy!


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Sunday, October 12, 2025

Brad Marino - "Voodoo"


It's no secret that Brad Marino is one of my favorite musical artists. I recently reviewed him for the 25th time, and it's not out of the question that I'll review him 25 more times (at least!). He's back with a new vinyl single out on the German label LIGHTHOUSE Punkrock. "Voodoo" is the first song from Marino's next album Agent of Chaos, which will be out next spring. Joining Marino on this track are the secret weapon Bobby Davis on bass, the great Gene Champagne on drums, and the legend Ron Mullens on keyboards. Now that's one heck of a band! This is one of the most straight-forward power pop songs that Marino has ever written, and of course it's a hit! Marino is always so good about writing about doomed romantic relationships, and on this track he employs some seasonally appropriate horror metaphors to emphasize the extent of the doom. This is a rockin' and super-catchy tune with wonderfully clever lyrics. Without ever straying too far from his signature musical style, Marino manages to never disappoint. That is certainly the case with "Voodoo." One listen to this song is all it takes to know that the album is gonna be hot! The B-side, exclusive to this single, is a cover of one of the best Jesus and Mary Chain songs, "Between Planets." It's in many ways faithful to the original, but for sure it has been Marino-fied. Come on, man: it's a new Brad Marino single! You know you need it!

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Friday, September 19, 2025

The Prize - In The Red


It has been three years since Melbourne's The Prize first burst on the scene and had the entire power pop world going crazy. I waited with bated breath for a debut album in 2023 and 2024 to no avail. But good things come to those who wait, and In The Red (out on Anti Fade Records in Australia and Goner Records in the USA) is finally here and easily living up to all those expectations. The band (Nadine Muller on lead vocals & drums, Carey Paterson on lead vocals & guitar, Joseph Imfeld on guitar, Austin Haire on guitar, and Ethan Stahl on bass) has found the perfect mix of power pop, '70s hard rock, and old school punk on this crackling long player. What results is an album that doesn't sound like every other power pop album — or any other power album, for that matter. All that promise from those early singles has been fulfilled. Combining triple guitar firepower with ridiculously good songwriting and electrifying energy, this is the kind of album we point to when we rant and rave about rock 'n' roll being far from dead. Whether you're a power pop geek or just someone who loves kick-ass rock 'n' roll, In The Red will give you plenty to get excited about. You have to respect that when it came down to making a debut album, this band took the time to do it right. There's no filler on this record. And even with the album being recorded in piecemeal fashion, it sounds great. The Prize has delivered all the power and all the pop, and all that's left for you to do is to crank up the volume and enjoy the hell out of this record!

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Sunday, September 07, 2025

Perilous - "Glass Of Something"


Perilous has just concluded its summer of singles with another smash! "Glass Of Something" is the fifth installment in what has been a truly flawless series. Every one of these singles has been a total banger, and "Glass Of Something" is no different. When it comes to old school punk with a pop heart and a rock 'n' roll edge, Perilous is about as good as it gets. "Glass Of Something" espouses a philosophy that most people would be well-served to adopt: there's almost nothing that can't be worked out between two people whilst they are sitting down and enjoying some tasty beverages. This is not necessarily intended as a political song, but perhaps that's the whole point. Sometimes we can reach our greatest understandings in all avenues of life over a glass of something. Bob Cat originally wrote this song with Robby Petrella for their band Hurtin' Units, and Perilous decided to bring it back with some additional lyrics by Pauline. The song really works as a Perilous track. It's a great pop song with real deal punk attitude, and it was produced by one of the very best in the business: Mr. Kurt Reil! It's a little sad that this run of summer singles has concluded, but I can assure you that we still have a lot to look forward to from Perilous. The summer of 2025 will be forever remembered as The Summer of Perilous!

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