Amber Hargett

Heather Redman & The Reputation: A Funky Soulful-Blues Infused Rock Odyssey

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In the ever-evolving kaleidoscope of rock and blues, it’s rare to come across a band that can channel the raw essence of classic genres while injecting a fresh and exhilarating spirit into their music. Enter Heather Redman & The Reputation, a group of fantastic Dayton, Ohio musicians whose debut album is nothing short of a revelation in the world of contemporary rock and roll. If you’re craving the kind of music that grabs you by the soul and refuses to let go, then look no further. This is Heather Redman & The Reputation, and their self-titled album is a tour de force of funky soulful blues-infused rock that takes you on a journey through love, pain, longing, and everything in between.

Heather Redman’s husky, soulful voice immediately captivates the listener, drawing them into the world of her lyrics. The Reputation’s instrumentation serves as the perfect backdrop to Redman’s compelling storytelling, creating a synergy that is seldom encountered in modern music. Their self-titled album takes you on a mesmerizing musical journey, exploring a variety of emotional landscapes through a potent blend of soul, blues, rock, and blues influences.

The opening track, “Everybody,” sets the tone for the entire album. Redman’s voice takes center stage, conveying the emotional depth of the lyrics. It’s a heartfelt tour-de-force ode to community where all are welcome, with a bluesy, slow-tempo groove that pulls you in and doesn’t let go for a single second. The vocals are exceptional. Whether she whispers or screams, Redman sings with unrestrained passion that would destroy a lesser singer. I would pay money to hear Heather Redman sing the phonebook. The guitar work courtesy of Matt Webster on this track is exceptional, capturing the essence of classic soulful blues while adding a modern flair. The keyboards feel like they are dancing around the room. The percussion propels the song forward so well that you are a bit surprised when the song ends. It’s a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.

As the album progresses, “Step Back Girl” showcases Heather Redman’s songwriting prowess. The lyrics are poignant and fun, painting a picture of flirtation, fascination, and being a little star-struck. The Reputation’s musicianship is on full display, with a jangly guitar that adds a layer of emotional depth to the song. This track is a testament to the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music without talking down to their audience. There is a wink that the object of affection may be important to the narrator of the song as well as the young lady filled with longing watching the desired musician up on stage.

The album takes a turn with “Wait For Me,” a high-energy track that fuses rock with blues in an electrifying way. Redman’s voice soars, showing her versatility as a vocalist. The Reputation’s rhythm section locks into a tight groove, propelling the song forward with an infectious energy. “Wait For Me” is a stand-out track that demonstrates the band’s ability to switch between different moods and styles seamlessly. This song swirls from the start of the organ to the punch of the chorus with a beautiful harmonic blending of voices and emotions. The song captures the pushes and pulls of hope, desire, and the slow realization that we are all waiting.

One of the defining qualities of this album is its lyrical depth and swirling maelstrom of musical inventiveness. “Daydream” is a prime example, a song that seems to delve into themes of reflection and regret. Redman’s lyrical delivery is passionate and introspective at the same time, and the band’s movement is at times restrained and in other moments goes full bore like their lives depend on it. The instrumentation provides the perfect canvas for Heather Redman to paint her emotional narrative. The use of horns in this track is a beautiful touch, adding to the overall quality of the song.

The album reaches its climax with the Salvadore Ross cover of “Broken Bones,” a mesmerizing track that is a testament to the band’s songwriting and musicianship. Heather Redman’s vocals are hauntingly beautiful, and the Reputation’s arrangement is powerful. This song is a perfect encapsulation of the band’s ability to create music that is both emotionally resonant and musically engaging. The guitar solo in “Broken Bones” is a thing of beauty, showcasing the band’s virtuosity.

As the album approaches the end, the choice of the Amber Hargett penned evocative tune “Prove It To Me” provides a poignant and intimate moment. Redman’s voice is soulful and resolute with a dash of defiance conveying a sense of demand while carrying under the surface hints of closure and acceptance. The Reputation’s acoustic instrumentation in this track is a departure from the rest of the album, showcasing their versatility. It’s a bittersweet clarion call to ‘Prove It To Me‘ that leaves a lasting impression. The drums and percussion on this song from veteran drummer Dan Stahl shine on this song.

Every soulful album should have a passionate plea and Tryin‘ — the penultimate song on the record — is a barn burner that just simply leaves everything on the floor. Heather Redman’s lyrics are a testament to her songwriting abilities. Her words cut to the core of human emotions, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The lyrics of this song are thought-provoking and relatable, making it easy for listeners to connect with it on a personal level. Across the eight songs on the entire record, Redman’s storytelling is vivid and evocative, creating a strong emotional resonance that lingers long after the music stops. The listener is left wondering, what happens after the music fades.

The closing track, “The Getdown,” is a fitting end to the album. It’s a triumphant and anthemic song that encapsulates the essence of Heather Redman & The Reputation. The band’s chemistry is on full display, with a powerful, driving rhythm section and searing guitar work. Redman’s vocals are filled with determination and resolve, making it clear that this band has arrived and is here to stay.

Throughout the album, Heather Redman & The Reputation effortlessly blend elements of blues and rock, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. The interplay between Redman’s expressive vocals and the band’s impeccable instrumentation is a match made in musical heaven. This album isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a narrative journey that takes the listener through the highs and lows of life’s experiences.

The Reputation’s musicianship is equally impressive. The band members are not just skilled instrumentalists; they are true artists who understand the nuances of their craft. Their ability to seamlessly switch between different styles and moods is a testament to their versatility and adaptability. The guitar work, in particular, is a highlight, with solos that are both soulful and electrifying. The organ/keyboards pull a sonic sleight of hand in creating a sway to the songs that add to the bounce and joy of each tune.

Heather Redman & The Reputation’s self-titled album is a triumph in modern rock music because it is so rare for a debut album to smoothly transition across styles and there is no awkwardness or jarring shift, the songs flow as if moving downstream. It’s a rare gem that captures the spirit of classic blues and rock while infusing it with fresh and contemporary energy with a healthy helping of soul. The band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music is nothing short of remarkable, and Heather Redman’s vocals are a force to be reckoned with. You cannot look away when Heather Redman sings, it’s as if her singing possesses an unrelenting gravitational pull.

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In a musical landscape that often prioritizes the trendy and the ephemeral, Heather Redman & The Reputation stand as a testament to the enduring power of authentic and emotionally charged music. This album is a must-listen for anyone who craves music that goes beyond the surface and delves deep into the human experience. Heather Redman & The Reputation have not only made a name for themselves; they’ve etched their reputation into the annals of rock and blues music. This is the band you will want to remember.

So, if you’re in the mood for a musical journey that will move your soul, make sure to give “Heather Redman & The Reputation” a spin. This is an album that demands to be heard and it will not take ‘no’ for an answer. This record will leave a lasting impression and firmly establishes Heather Redman & The Reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the musical spheres of funk, soul, rock, and blues. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness their sly musical magic.

Dayton Guitars 4 Heroes on YTAA

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It is going to be quite the program today!

We have music from Tod Weidner, Cricketbows, No One Sphere, Rich Reuter, The Connells, Oh Condor, Nick Kizirnis, Amber Hargett Music, Samantha J King, The 1984 Draft, Todd Farrell Jr., Sammy Kay, XL427, The Nautical Theme and much more!

If that was not enough in hour #2 we have Ron Burns and Art Nitsch of Rec 4 Heroes / Dayton and Dayton Guitars 4 Heroes Band in the studio.

Ron and Art will talk about the Dayton Guitars 4 Heroes organization and what they do for veterans as well as the programs they offer for those service members who are dealing with PTSD, anxiety and combat related injuries.

We look forward to learning how music programs in general and guitar, ukulele and harmonica therapy in particular are used in helping veterans overcome challenges, especially the far too common response of self harm.

In hour #3 we have an interview with Dave Mann and Jarrett Nicolay of No One Sphere. We have download codes to their incredible record ‘Isn’t Everything About Something’ to give away!

So, join us from 3-6pm on Your Tuesday Afternoon Alternative on WUDR Flyer Radio 99.5/98 and online!

YTAA Recommends: Nicholas Johnson – Back Upstate

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Ever hear a record that you did not know anything about and were completely surprised, enamored and then drawn into a new musical world? Well, that has happened to us here at YTAA.

We are currently listening to the new record from Nicholas Johnson and to say that we are impressed is an example of classic understatement! The music he makes sways from sounding like Whiskeytown (‘Come Around’), smooth LA sounds of the ‘70s (‘I’m a Ghost’, Night Ride’) to rocking like a midwestern Lucero (‘Lonely Girl’), the story closes on a bluesy swirl about getting out and embracing experience (‘Nashville’). The record explores a music space that is reminiscent of the past and stands squarely in the present. For us the standout track is the shimmering vulnerability of ‘Sinner’

‘Sinner’ is a powerful, convincing and decisive tune. If you hear that song and do not feel the naked emotion, then you have some work to do. This song captures heartache, emotion and the soul ache that is part of living. In addition, the backing vocals from the always stellar Amber Hargett are just simply perfect and compliment the contemplative delivery of Johnson. Their voices together elevate the song. When Johnson sings: “I’m a sinner, ’cause I hate myself, I’m a sinner because I want to be” — you feel it because the Ryan Adams like patience in Johnson’s delivery makes it matter, you have felt this way too. You may not want to embrace your brokenness but it is there inside us all, just the same.

We would not be doing our job if we did not complement Rich Reuter’s production on this album which allows each song to shine on its own and as part of the collection. Reuter is a musical chameleon on this record playing guitar, bass, lap steel, mandolin, keyboards, drum programming, background vocals and percussion in addition to producing, engineering and mixing the songs. We have no doubt that the gathering of musicians who worked with Johnson on this record including some powerhouse alums of the Dayton Music Scene Khrys Blank, Jenna De Gruy, Amber Hargett, Patrick Himes, Eric Reith, Sara Gomes and Rob Spahr who all share a musical companionship and vision. Johnson not only has ties to the Dayton area but also has interesting stories from being a touring musician in Italy and throughout Europe. Some of those connections are demonstrated through the contributions of Lorenzo Testa on banjo and Lorena Vezzaro on violin.

Johnson draws on his music and storytelling influences while showcasing his unique focus on the textures of each song. While the songs stand on their own, the assembled music together paints a narrative that is relatable and meaningful. This approach should occur far more often than it does in music. And Johnsons voice is perfectly authentic as he sings across forms and styles in this incredibly catchy collection about human foibles and insecurities without sounding downtrodden.

Nicholas Johnson has crafted a fantastic record that has strong Dayton Music Scene connections both behind and in front of the microphone. Our compliments to Ninja Jam Records. Get this record! Get it right away!

11 Questions with Amber Hargett

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101714517_10163801825875154_1076073664824213504_nThis essay marks our inaugural new YTAA series: ’11 questions with…’. The idea is to learn about the artist and how they create, compose and make artwork in the present moment. We have approached several bands and artists to answer some questions about their latest music, a song that they have recently worked on and how they are managing the current extraordinary challenges during the Coronavirus pandemic.

A hearty thank you to all of the artists and musicians for taking the time to answer these questions! We appreciate you answering these questions for our readers/listeners on YTAA!

A few days ago, Dr. J reached out to Dayton powerhouse singer, songwriter and guitarist Amber Hargett to answer our first ’11 Questions with…’ column. If you do not know, where have you been? No, seriously Amber Hargett released the acclaimed record ‘Paper Trail‘ at the end of March 2019. The artist’s first record included songs with emotional heft ‘Carolina Blue’, surviving the challenges of everyday life ‘Broke’, and the power of real authentic head over heels love ‘Fallin’ for You’ among several other stellar tracks.

HORIZONTAL NAMEMore recently, Amber has finished a new song, Painting Pictures, that addresses several important features of the calling to create music and art. We want to extend our deep appreciation for Amber for answering these questions!

Dr. J: What can you share with us about when and how you started writing your latest released song, Painting Pictures?

Amber Hargett (AH): I spent the first five or six weeks of quarantine in a weird funk. I needed rest, anyway. But I had been struggling to find any motivation to pick up my guitar, write, or perform. One night I couldn’t sleep and started thinking of the kindred spirits I knew who were probably up, too – struggling with expressing their feelings, but determined to keep creating. I wound up staying up until 4 a.m. to finish the song.

Dr. J: You worked closely with Patrick Himes at Reel Love Recording Company here in Dayton, Ohio, what led to your recording with Patrick?

AH: Back in January, I booked studio time for a single (‘Shine On’) in March and additional dates to begin an EP in May. The pandemic led to an automatic cancellation of the March dates, but when May approached and I had new material, Patrick and I felt we could work together safely. We were both eager to get back to work.

a0025564858_16Dr. J: Painting Pictures is a meaningful song for those involved in creative work/pursuits; did you set out to address the concerns and challenges of artists/musicians/creatives when starting to work on that song?

AH: I guess so. The very first line I wrote was, “I’m down here writing music that nobody’s gonna hear.” Because that’s exactly where I was – in a basement, at 1:00 a.m., alone, writing a tune that I was never sure would see the light of day. Every song feels that way at some point. But then I thought of Megan Fiely, my friend and amazing artist, and how she probably felt the same way sometimes about her paintings. I actually completed the third verse of the song first, with her in mind.

Dr. J: Painting Pictures also addresses other forms of work – for example service – is that a correct interpretation of some of the lyrics? In addition, if that is correct, did you intend to address many forms of work or did the song evolve in that direction over time?

AH: Yes, absolutely. My husband is a commercial construction foreman. He hasn’t missed a single day of work for the sake of his health during Ohio’s Stay At Home order. (Except for vacation days I begged him to take, just for mental health and rest.) The idea that SOME work is “essential” and other work is not was a big topic of discussion in our house. Nick called himself “an expendable essential worker”, to express his frustration with the fact he was required to work and finish building a hotel for a major chain. That really stuck in my craw, as they say. While we are very grateful for the steady income, we both struggled with the fact that Nick was expected to keep on working – at the risk of his health – for something that seemed like it could wait?

On the other hand, I felt as though artists and songwriters and such were just considered unimportant during these times. For me and my cohorts, it is unlikely unemployment will ever be granted, yet I’ve already lost a couple thousand dollars in promised gigs and in merchandise costs that I doubt I’ll recoup. I guess the main point is: everyone’s work is essential. It all matters. If you’re writing songs, building infrastructure, creating art, or serving and ministering to your own family or the community, it’s all essential.

0020197789_10Dr. J: How did the song come together musically for you? I began with writing lines that would fit the cadence of the last line of each verse, and then worked backwards to create a “character” for each segment of the song.

AH: Where do you often derive inspiration to make music? Oh boy. Many sources. Sometimes it’s my most passionate opinions on a sensitive subject, (like ‘Churchmouse’), personal experiences, or it’s observational, like in Painting Pictures. I also like the challenge of stepping inside someone else’s shoes and trying to present their voice through a song – but only if I have something personal to lend to it. Otherwise I think it would feel disingenuous. Listening to other people’s music is also a huge pathway to writing new music. Especially LIVE music! Experiencing someone else’s work is a constant source of inspiration. A sound, a chord change, a vocal moment, or its presentation often sparks something in my brain to take home.

Dr. J: How would you describe the music that you typically create? How has that process evolved or changed over time (especially as you think about your journey from Paper Trail to Painting Pictures)?

AH: Well, Paper Trail was really a “catching up” project, composed mostly of songs that existed for several years. I dusted them off and “hodge-podged” a record together. I liken it to making a quilt out of scrap fabric. Don’t get me wrong! I love how she turned out. But it was also my first fully-produced recording experience, so there was a learning curve.

Since then, I would say there has been more of a change in me as an artist than in the writing or creative process. I feel myself maturing and growing more comfortable calling myself a songwriter. I’ve finally begun to embrace it, and I think that shows.

Recording ‘Painting Pictures’ was such a pleasure because Patrick and I had already established a great working chemistry both in the studio and as band-mates. It was also the first time I was writing something especially relevant, so I felt more of an urgency to share it. There was a time I would have sat on the song and poked holes in it a few months before I dared record it.

100731620_3890002181041330_5834964301433012224_oDr. J: What is next for you musically? How would you describe your thoughts at this point for your next project after Painting Pictures?

AH: The next project will be unlike what I’ve done so far. It will be an EP featuring a collection of songs that feel connected to one another, and with a sound that suggests they come from another time. My artistic vision for this work is far more specific and I can’t wait to get started. The grouping will include ‘Churchmouse’ which is by far my heaviest writing yet, but a piece I feel is incredibly important for me to take to a fully-produced form. Overall, the EP will have a darker tone, but it will still contain glimmers of hope and light. Something I intend to be true of the majority of my writing and performances.

Dr. J: What is your favorite song to perform? What makes it a current favorite in your performances?

AH: In a solo set, I think Somebody Loves You will always be my favorite song to perform. It is the first song I memorized, and I think it’s because I feel it’s message is the most important. Once in a while I can hear the crowd sing the phrase and it moves me to tears.

With the band? Probably ‘Without You’. That song is the prayer of my heart and one of the most personal from Paper Trail. Fun fact: Brian Greaney insists that song go on every set list! Ha ha!

Dr. J: What is one message you would hope that listeners find in the unique nature of your latest music?

AH: That they are loved, seen and appreciated.

Dr. J: As a musician, how are you adapting to the challenges of the Coronavirus?

AH: From a business perspective? I am forcing myself to apply my 10+ years experience s174958706945291087_p3_i1_w1815in advertising and branding (in my past life) to promote myself and the new music. I eternally loathe this part of being an artist. But, the quarantine did offer me time to get an online merch store up and running, which helps out here and there.

Musically, it is harder to find inspiration. The loss of live shows is definitely taking a toll on the inspiration bank. But I have also taken some of this time to reach out to my other artist friends and encourage them to keep doing their thing. I think the community here is looking out for one another in big ways, and that encourages me! It will make our reunions that much sweeter.

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Amber is playing a safe socially distancing show at The Yellow Cab Tavern tonight! Please check with Yellow Cab regarding their procedures for a fun and safe event! Then on Saturday, May 30th, Amber is joining other luminaries of the Dayton Music Scene for a virtual concert, Tip Jar: A Show of Thanks to benefit hospitality workers.

Thanks again to Amber for answering these questions! If you would like to participate in a future ’11 Questions with…’ column, please feel free to email us at drjytaa@gmail.com. If you have, a particular picture you would like used in the article, please feel free to attach that as well. All pictures and images of Amber Hargett courtesy of the artist.

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Amber Hargett on Bandcamp     Amber Hargett on Facebook

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YTAA 05-26-2020 Playlist

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We continue to share our playlists via Spotify here. Please give our show a listen and support these terrific artists directly in any way that you can! Now more than ever we need to support and take care of one another!

This week we are playing music from Yuppie, Jetstream Pony, Kidbug, Charlie Jackson and the Heartland Railway, The Beths, Steve Earle, WOODS, Trace Mountain, Khruangbin, The Sonic Dawn, The Radio Dept., David Allen, Porridge Radio, Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, Jason Isbell, Choir Boy, The Katawicks, Yalecollegegraduate, Jetty Bones, The National, Loose Tooth, True Lies, Wussy, Kyleen Downes, The Corner Laughers, The Story Changes, Hello June and more!

Check out the live stream from Yuppie at Encore Studios on May 27th at 8pm!

a0025564858_16We are also playing a brand new song that we are very excited to share with all of you music lovers!

‘Painting Pictures‘ is the latest and newest music from Dayton singer-songwriter, guitar player and all around amazing voice Amber Hargett that came out today! A real gift to have new music from her! Such a great song! She is joining a fine case of local musicians who are live streaming on May 30th to raise funds for Ohio restaurant workers!

R-1790873-1306445379.jpegIn addition to all of that musical goodness, we have two songs from The Connells — one song to celebrate the 22 years since the release for their album ‘Still Life’ and another rare live song ‘Rusted Fields’!

The ‘Still Life’ album was the last to include the original lineup of this legendary band! And the word is that the band has finished recording a new record that is headed our way soon, tentatively titled ‘Steadman’s Wake.’ Count us among the excited for this new music!

So give the playlist a listen. Dr. J will be posting videos on the Facebook page for YTAA beginning at 3pm because that is show time for YTAA! Please stay safe and be well!

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05-19-2020 YTAA Playlist

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We are continuing to create playlists over at Spotify of what we would play if we were in the studio! Stay safe and be well everyone!

This week we are playing brand new music from The Vapors, Neil Young, Woods, Seth Canan, Jason Isbell, Chastity Belt, Surrender Human, Dotsun Moon, Cornershop, Kathleen Edwards, Brian Baker and Thao & The Get Down Stay Down, Sparks and The Dears. We also have recent music from Salvadore Ross, Sadbox, Amber Hargett, David Payne, Harold ‘The Golden Voice of Dayton’s Roots Music’ Hensley, Great Grandpa and Wussy We also have some Looking Back Indie music from The Minutemen, Joy Division and The Undertones! We are also comparing two versions of Neo-American Pioneers ‘All for You.’

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Best of 2019: Mike Bankhead’s Picks and Thoughts

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Shrug – Easy is the New Harda1766992202_10

Shrug are stalwarts of the Dayton music scene, having been around for 25 years.  This is their first album to be released on vinyl, and as if that’s not enough, it’s a double.  Some of the songs on the track list that showed up in their sets 15 years ago (“New Amsterdam” and “Bender” being the oldest) coexist beautifully with new music that didn’t get played live until the album release show (“Powder” and “Follow the Captain”).  The result is probably the best, most eclectic work of their tenure, and certainly my favorite since 2002’s self-titled release.

    *favorite songs: “Powder”, “New Amsterdam”, “Follow the Captain”, “Blue Blanket”

 

220px-Sleater-Kinney_-_The_Center_Won't_HoldSleater-Kinney – The Center Won’t Hold

About the same time that Shrug was getting going here in Dayton, this band started up in Olympia, Washington.  This is their 9th album, and heads off in a different sonic direction from everything else in their catalog. This new direction cost them the powerful services of drummer Janet Weiss, as she departed the band just before they went on tour to support the album.  There is synth here, extra slick production, and pop sensibility, but it still sounds like a Sleater-Kinney album. That’s enough for me.

    * favorite songs: “Reach Out”, “Bad Dance”

 

911IuEsTDWL._SS500_Big Wreck – … but for the sun

Here’s a third band that formed in 1994.  Ian Thornley’s voice is the closest I have ever heard to Chris Cornell’s, and it’s still as powerful now as it was when I first discovered this band.  If you enjoyed Soundgarden in the past, I think you would like Big Wreck as well. This new effort is a big, loud, swaggering rock and roll record. You want guitar solos?  There are plenty of them here. You want riffage? There is plenty of that here. You like shouting along whilst driving? These songs are perfect for that.  

   *favorite songs: “In My Head”, “Give Us a Smile”,  “Alibi” 

 

767870659522_mainGuided By Voices – Sweating the Plague

How about a band that was already more than ten years old in 1994?  Indie rock royals Guided By Voices released three albums this year, because of course they did.  This one is the last of the three. I have had a hard time keeping up on all of Bob Pollard’s music over the years, and would only consider myself somewhat well-versed on the albums that came out between 1994 and 2004.  With that caveat in mind, this album isn’t what I was expecting. I heard tempo changes, a brief Boston-esque lead guitar harmony, a song that starts a capella, all paired up with the usual amount of fantastic hooks.

   *favorite songs: “Street Party”,  “Your Cricket Is Rather Unique”, “Immortals”

 

elbow_giantsofallsizes_mainElbow – Giants of All Sizes

Apologies to Oasis, but Elbow are now my favo(u)rite Manchester band.  This is their 8th studio album. Lyrically, it’s darker than what we normally get from them, but personal tragedies and these modern times will have that effect.  Guy Garvey’s pristine voice, the band’s orchestral use of dynamics, and at least one song with massive audience sing-along potential on the hook… those things are still here.  Also, Pete Turner continues to bring interesting choices to the bottom end, along with solid grooves from which most of the other instruments hang.

  *favorite songs: “Empires”, “White Noise White Heat”, “Weightless”

 

idlewild---interview-musicIdlewild – Interview Music

Let’s stay on the island of Great Britain for a moment, but head up north to Scotland.  I have five of this band’s first six albums on CD (I don’t have the first one). There was a time when I would listen to something from Idlewild just about every day.  Somewhere around 2008, I completely lost track of them. It wasn’t them, it was me. I’ve missed a couple of their albums, and nearly missed this one, only recently having discovered that it came out this year.  Other than the vocals (not the high ones), this doesn’t sound like the Idlewild I remember… there are plenty of atmospheric additions here, strings and reverb-drenched guitar and piano, and it’s all very lovely. I need to spend more time with this album, but I know that I’ll like it more with each listen.

   *favorite songs: “Dream Variations”, “I Almost Didn’t Notice”, “Forever New”

 

The-Cranberries-In-the-EndThe Cranberries – In the End

A short hop West across the Irish Sea brings us to the home of The Cranberries.  This mention is kind of like a career achievement mention, as the band decided not to continue after frontwoman Dolores O’Riordan died in January 2018.  This is their final album, released this year. The vocals come from demos instead of normal studio takes, but if I hadn’t read that online, I wouldn’t have known.  Some of the music would easily fit in among the songs on their first two albums. I feel like most folks probably don’t know this band beyond their hit singles, and that’s too bad, there is some songwriting brilliance in their career, and this is a satisfying final statement.

   *favorite songs:  “Lost”, “Wake Me When It’s Over”, “Illusion”, “In the End”

 

Charly-Bliss-Young-Enough-1557243931-640x640Charly Bliss – Young Enough

Back much farther West across the Atlantic, Brooklyn’s Charly Bliss dropped their second full-length album this year.  Full disclosure, I really wanted to like this album because I have met the members of this band, and they were pleasant and engaging young folks.. I like them as people.  (They also put on a very energetic live show.) My first couple of listens to this album, well, I wasn’t enthused… lots of synth, some drum machine sounds, the guitars and rock had taken a back seat to sugary pop.  Then I paid attention to the lyrics, listened closer to the songwriting, and focused on the harmonic choices. These songs are painfully confessional and personal, and I wonder how Eva manages to sing them on tour night after night without bursting into tears.  Further, this band’s gift for arrangement and hooks persists behind the pop sheen… and these songs sound excellent live, right alongside their older guitar-heavy work. Go get this album.

   *favorite songs: “Capacity”, “Camera”, “Young Enough”, “Chatroom”

 

61470138_554840258255776_5954152654669086720_oJohn Dubuc’s Guilty Pleasures – Where Have I Been All Your Life?

Don’t let John Dubuc’s “aw shucks”, self-effacing demeanor fool you.  He is one of the best songwriters in Dayton. His lyrics oscillate between witty and silly, pointless and profound. He doesn’t feel the need to be constrained by the idea of genre, as there are sounds borrowed from reggae and country and fifties rock and power pop and folk.  Several songs from this album will absolutely get stuck in your head.  

   *favorite songs: “It Ain’t That Far”, “Crazy Days”, “By the Ocean”, “Peace Love and Hamburger Helper”

 

a2717136637_10Me & Mountains – Dream Sequence Volume One

This a very brief EP, so I feel like my comments here have to also be very brief.  I love everything this band does, their sound is right up my alley, and I want them to give me more music ASAP.

  *favorite song: “Demolish Me”

 

a0393637519_10Amber Hargett – Paper Trail

Amber is lovely and genuine and sweet, comes armed with a powerful voice and a knack for songwriting, and once told a story that will ensure I never look at a submarine hatch the same way again.  Oh, and her album is great.

   *favorite songs: “Broke”, “Carolina Blue”, “Stay”

 

0009715440_10Mike Bankhead is a writer and deeply thoughtful musician. Mike does not just create songs he curates sound. His latest record is Defacing the Moon, a split album with The Paint Splats, available now. Mike’s latest song is an impressively powerful narrative that he calls “Little Light” that was released this past May and is available on all digital platforms. He is on twitter at    @mbankheadmusic and Instagram at mikebankheadmusic.

His website is https://mikebankheadmusic.com/ We suggest you check it out! 

Best of 2019: Jeremy Siegrist’s Picks and Thoughts

your tuesday afternoon alternative Best Of , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hindsight is always 2020

GEA - C21ILLC Final-8Well, here we are, the end of another year is upon us. If you’re like I am, you are fighting to break out of your self-imposed  echo chamber which you have ensconced yourself in and (possibly) you are thoroughly convinced life as you know it is falling apart. Yes, 2019 has been one of “those” years. As we all watch the worlds political systems, economies and climates stretch and strain under the forces that be, it is easy to fall into a state of hopelessness and despair.  For a great many of us, however, the thing that keeps us upright and a productive part of society is an unnatural reliance upon popular music, rock n roll in particular,  and the almost mystical way it seems to be able to make life bearable. Almost like a gigantic connective web covering the world, for those of us who are tuned in, music is the prime mover, the voice of generations, the highest form of expression and ultimately, the reason behind it all. Like legendary Who guitarist Pete Townsend said, “… the elegance of pop music [is] that it [is] reflective: we were holding up a mirror to our audience and reflecting them philosophically and spiritually, rather than just reflecting society or something called ‘rock n roll.’”  Indeed, this is the way it was then when The Who was at the forefront of new music and the way it still is now.

Fortunately for almost everyone,  I am not prone to writing long pieces extemporaneously, but initially and for reasons unknown, I was asked by my friend Art Jipson, (a Dayton Ohio music legend in his own right), to write a small piece on what I have been listening to this past year and write a couple of review lines about each of the artists. Not being someone who routinely turns legends down, I agreed to the project and found that in attempting to put the piece together I was  forced into deep water asking myself why was it exactly I was listening to what I was listening to. Why was I drawn to things I was drawn to and what did they truly mean to me? The truth is, I’m not sure I came up with any solid answers and I definitely did no music reviewing in the process of writing this article, but here are some things I think are worth mentioning.

2019, for all intents and purposes, was a year of great  turmoil in the United States. Social GEA - C21ILLC Final-113upheaval and political division was at an all time high and I have found that with only a few notable exceptions, artists from previous eras have become suddenly and starkly relevant again in a way that has never happened for many of us before. For instance, 2019 saw the release of the album Colorado by Neil Young, which is objectively an amazing piece of artistry and social commentary. Take into evidence the song “Shut It Down” where the venerable Mr. Young sings:

“All around the planet There’s a blindness that just can’t see Have to shut the whole system down They’re all wearing climate change  As cool as they can be”

I was, and am, immediately drawn to this album for reasons other than just being a decidedly die hard and zealous Neil Young fan. There are things afoot which we haven’t dealt with in many years and they are starting to show in the edges of the musical spectrum of rock-n-roll.

The Drive By Truckers, the die hard stalwart hardest working rock band in the business, this year released a single and a teaser for they upcoming album with the titles being respectively, Perilous Night and Armageddon’s Back In Town. My friends, there are things moving, whether you want them to or not, which we have not seen in many years. In Perilous Night, Patterson Hood sings:

“Dumb, white and angry with their cup half filled

Running over people down in Charlottesville

White House Fury, it’s the killing side, he defends

Defend the up-ender, yes he played that tune

it ain’t the ending but it’s coming soon

 

We’re making love beneath a sputnik moon again

White House is glowing from the Red Square light

The gates at the border being slammed down tight

We’re moving into the perilous night, my friend” 

These are heady and potentially dangerous times, and Rock N Roll, maybe even all of pop music, is standing in the gap ice again ready to take up the cause. Yes, there were many albums released this year and singles which have absolutely nothing to do with the general climate in the world, for instance (and I am showing my age here) Juliana Hatfield, and Swervedriver both released albums this past year. However, I find myself continually drawn back to music which is speaking to our times, even when those times are from years which have seemingly passed out of relevance.

Bob Dylan, Neil Young, The Drive By Truckers are all in my rotation on a constant basis now because they are in the process of capturing a point in time for me. I need to post a disclaimer for everyone who has made it this far in the article. I am not living some sort of 60’s battle reenactment; (This is a line from a Frank Turner song, if you don’t know him you should look him up). I am suddenly and very acutely aware at this point in history we, in this country, and on this planet, are watching huge tectonic plates grinding and moving against one another in a way that has not been seen in many many moons. Put your antenna up friends, the truth is out there and it’s starting to be sung about out on the fringes.

Ultimately, however, and when I finally pull my mind away from the morass of the public spectacle in front of us, I gravitate back towards the people and places I love and am familiar with. For instance, local bands Like Seth Canan and The Carriers, The Boxcar Suite and the 1984 Draft.  Artists like Charlie Jackson and Amber Hartgett, and really everything Patrick Himes touches, are always somewhere in my headspace leaving sonic trails through the synapses. I miss Tom Petty more and more every day and wish I could let it all go again but did you hear? Rage Against the Machine is coming back for one more go. Coincidence? I suspect as we roll into the next year we will see an even greater resurgence of politically and socially charged music and lyrics and I for one think it is long overdue. In this case, hindsight is truly 2020.

JeremyJeremy Siegrist describes himself as “a no one, from no where, in a small band in Ohio called The Typical Johnsons, who are making as much noise is as humanly possible from his low low vantage point.”  https://twitter.com/TypicalJohnsons @TypicalJohnsons Typical Johnsons Fan Club & Website Their latest song ‘Wreckage’ is available on all platforms. We recommend checking out The Typical Johnsons’ page on bandcamp!