New Toys – “Say It” CD
The long out of print album from NYC’s New Toys (originally released in 1982) was re-issued this year by 13th Street Records with all songs restored, remixed, and remastered from the original multi-track tapes. The sonic overhaul illustrates that more than 40 years after its initial release, New Toys managed to combine powerpop/punk/new wave like few others in ’82. The songs on “Say It” have stood the test of time and showcase the songwriting talents of Alan and Kevin K.
Rumours – “Kill Or Be Killed” CD
Iowa’s all-girl Rumours have been contenders for a few years now yet never quite landed or broke through in a significant way. That may change with the release of their current album, “Kill Or Be Killed” - high energy, full throttle action reminiscent of Nashville Pussy with a Girlschool-AC/DC edge. Cleveland’s Dead Beat Records often have their finger on the pulse, (as evidenced by the monster debut album by Killer Kin last year). This year? May just be Rumours. Worth a listen.
Gyasi – “Rock ‘n’ Roll Sword Fight” CD
A live album by Gyasi - rock ‘n’ roll’s new hope. This album captures the stomping glam experience that is Gyasi (pronounced Jah-See) on stage. For those unfamiliar, Gyasi is a flamboyant singer/guitarist/songwriter glam rocker from Nashville who brings back the heavy glam of T-Rex, with elements of Mick Ronson, Stooges and Zep. Raw power for new rock n’ roll people. Time will tell if Gyasi breaks through to the major league.
The Dictators – “The Dictators” CD
In my opinion, no real slack lost without Manitoba. If anything, his omission highlights just how much weight Shernoff and Ross The Boss really carry. Albert Bouchard from BOC, and Keith Roth out front, are a great (and rejuvenating) fit. All 10 songs on the album are memorable and in keeping with the expected Dictators formulae. Roth brings a lot to the table and is clearly not in Manitoba’s shadow – nor should he be. Unlike others from their era still out there, these 10 songs clearly demonstrate the Dictators relevance in 2024. Superb.
Jupiter 5 – “5th From The Sun” CD
Top to bottom, killer album. Consummate garage rock with riffs aplenty doesn’t even come close to doing this album justice. From the tough as nails “Gotta Fascination” with its hard-hitting chorus, clever breakdown and jaw dropping solo to the frenetic and high-energied rifforama of “Supersonic Hero”, there’s plenty to like. Jupiter 5 are a hot-wired powerhouse with a sound all their own and roar like a Harley down the highway. They mean business and are a no risk buy.
Babylonz – “Cheap Tuxedo Rental” EP
Killer rawk ‘n’ roll that combines equal parts Dolls swagger with the stomp of The Glitter Band and Hollywood Brats-like melodic strengths. If you didn’t know any better you’d swear this was from 1974. The great irony is that they are a current act from San Antonio – and arguably, the most legitimate sounding glam punk/glitter rock act doing the rounds.
Brando Rising – “Brando Rising” CD
Mean, nasty and menacing – this has all the requisite elements to push this Melbourne outfit to the next level with Ripley Hood bringing a dark edged film-noir cool on the vocal delivery. Guitarist Kelly Hewson from Gun Control brings much in terms of guitar chops whilst Tony “The Kid" Robertson underscores the whole thing with his staunch bass lines. Killer songs. Legitimacy should be worth more nowadays. One to watch.
Mick Medew and Ursula – “In The Zone” CD
All 10 songs on the album vary richly in terms of style and composition, yet they share some common musical threads. All are incredibly catchy, and testament to Mick Medew’s wealth of melodic sensibilities and liberal use of pop hooks. Kudos to Mick Medew for pushing himself to new territory in the songwriting stakes – the end result is a premier collection of songs that are distinct from each other but all equally appealing. Mick and Ursula give you a brand of rock ‘n’ roll you are unlikely to hear anywhere else and are thoroughly recommended listening.
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