Chris Murray – 4-Trackaganza

(c) 2001 Asian Man Records
[rating: 4/5]

I first heard of Chris Murray, AKA Venice Shoreline Chris about 6 years ago. forgive me for not being aware of King Apparatus… But none the less I was at a show in Lawrence Kansas at the Grenada, with a lineup of Venice Shoreline Chris, Less than Jake and Skavoovie and the Epitones. Chris Murray impressed the hell out of me with his "Campfire Ska" and on top of his opening set he played keyboards for Skavoovie. Damn, what a show. I was quite pleased when I learned that Chris was going to put a new acoustic album out, and it does not disappoint. I think the true brilliance of Chris Murray is exemplified in this album. from cleverly constructed lyrics to rich melodies. This CD is a perfect companion on a rainy Portland day. You can listen to track 3 "California Time" and feel the sun shine in. I gave this disc a 5, which I rarely if ever will do. But when you combine the excellent singing and song writing with the fact that it is all done on a four track, the points really stack up in it's favor. Go get this disk!! www.chrismurray.net

–Jerry Actually

Jon Cougar Concentration Camp – Melon

This is some of the best damn Punk Rock I’ve listened to in a while. Melon, the second full length release by San Diego’s Jon Cougar Concentration Camp out now on BYO Records, Brings back the feeling of early 80’s SoCal Punk.

It has all the energy, guts, toungue in cheek lyrics and snotty vocals that I like to hear in an album. It is fast paced and melodic. J.C.C.C. takes no prisoners on this one. (no pun intended.) I wasn’t sure whether to go with four or five “UP’S”, but after a couple of listens I really warmed up to the Disc and was thrashing around my living room.

Highlights include “My Favorite Place” “I Ain’t The One” and “You Either Got It Or You Don’t”. Go out and get this CD at your favorite store or visit the BYO Records web site to listen to some sounds of this and their other bands. Support the labels that support you!!!

-UPstarter