The Lawrence Arms [Cocktails & Dreams] © 2005 Asian Man Records“Cocktails & Dreams” is the long awaited B-sides release from Chicago’s The Lawrence Arms. The disc contains mostly tracks from now out-of-print split cd’s, however it isn’t just factory seconds and cans of creamed asparagus. There is an exclusive new song and 2 (count ‘em 1, 2) new versions of previously recorded material. Fans of the member’s former bands The Broadways and Slapstick will appreciate the melodic Chicago style punk rock. I know that I am pigeon-holing but the Chicago sound seems to be embodied by a quick paced (relatively) emo-laden punk. “Cocktails & Dreams” is 16 tracks of bittersweet melodies and cold grey weather anxiety. With songs about drinking, drinking too much, and not doing so in the future, cocktails and dreams is a must have for anyone that likes to sit in dimly lit rooms knocking back the last swig of malt liquor before finding their bottle of booze, all the while wondering where the hell this life is going to; Probably Pensacola.http://www.thelawrencearms.nethttp://www.asianmanrecords.com-Jerry Actually
Month: June 2005
Talco – Tutti Assalti
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© 2005 Black Butcher / KOB Records
I tried to translate “Tutti Assalti” from Italian into English with the Google Tranlslator. It came out something like “All You Onslaught” I’m not sure exactly what they mean, but if you want me to make the attempt, it means sweet freakin’ ska from Italy. Talco sounds to me like part Streetlight Manifesto, part Potshot. It works well, resulting in fast paced upbeat ska and ska/punk.
I don’t speak Italian, but I get the sense that the music is motivated and politically aware. Something important to mention, from the bio sheet, “Talco are a highly antifascist and against racism ska-punk band. They believe in music independence and in the massage it has to send against every kind of discrimination.” I say bravo! Keep up the damn fine ska. I hope to hear more from Talco. Maybe someday I’ll even know what they are singing about.
–Jerry Actually
Satori – Savor Every Moment
(c) 2005 Asian Man Records
[rating:3/5]
Comprised of the Rx Bandits with guest spots by Chris Murray and members of The Exit, is the outfit known as Satori. “Savor Every Moment” is their debut album out now on Asian Man Records. I insist that you do, in fact, savor every moment of this CD. All the elements of Dub, Rock Steady Reggae and Ska are artfully combined to create a soulful and soothing record. I’ve listened to “Savor Every Moment” about 4x in a row now and I’m still interested and still discovering new hooks and melodies. There are striking similarities to Sublime and Long Beach Dub All-stars. However, where as the aforementioned bands seem a little locked into 1 style, Satori runs the gambit of Jamaican musical styles as well as displaying R&B influences. The songs often recall the likes of Skatalites and early Wailers, yet infused with modern tones and beats, an dI’m not kidding when I say that these guys have some serious Stevie influence. “Savor Every Moment” is a beautifully restored classic car, refined with modern luxury appointments. Truly a must have disc for all fans of Jamaican music. As a bonus, check out the bands website for an audio stream of the first 3 tracks off of the CD.
http://www.satoriband.net
http://www.asianmanrecords.com
–Jerry Actually