FolkWorld #64 11/2017

CD & DVD Reviews

Pere Ubu "20 Years in a Montana Missile Silo"
Cherry Red Records, 2017

Pere Ubu "Drive He Said 1994-2002"
MVD, 2017

www.ubuprojex.com

Although Pere Ubu and folk music go together like chalk and cheese, the opening number ‘Cold Sweat’ may have you changing your mind. This could be Chris Isaak, if you mangled his vocal chords into the distinctively intense David Thomas warble. But there is much more of what you may expect, such as Captain Beefheart jamming with Joe Byrd and the Field Hippies or just classic Pere Ubu. I find this record a bit below some of the highs of the last one, but much better than the lows (where it went overly arty). This is a solid and steadier affair and as such, much more exciting and fulfilling to play from beginning to end.
Pere Ubu’s previous boxset collected all the early LPs along with interesting bonus tracks. While excellent, it showed how the band went from edgy highly experimental rock songs to tripped out beyond categorization art music. I had lost interest and the band apparently had had enough, so they took a break. And then in the 1990s, they returned and that period is documented in this four-album collection. These records have a more straightforward approach than the early material, but it is Pere Ubu, so straightforward is still more of a meandering stream winding sharply around bold features. There is plenty of art rock within these structures of strong guitar, disconcerting synthesizer, and twisted vocals. A few songs go a bit too esoteric, but most of this music is meaty and intriguing. This is a fine collection and was a welcome return to my head after not being there for the last couple of decades.
© David Hintz


Ohmslice "Conduit"
Imaginator; 2017

www.ohmslice.net

This is an appropriate follow up to a Pere Ubu LP. There are arty poetic vocal lines atop of gutsy synthesizer runs, a parrying of slashing guitars, and all kinds of percussion finding space in and around it all. It is not all over the top rock; in fact it is far more ambient, albeit a very busy in your face ambience. But there are mysteries abound in the music here. There is not a lot of folk or rock, but some jazz is prevalent on many cuts. Interesting, but you have to be in a certain mood to accept challenging backing music like this that in not always content to stay in the background.
© David Hintz


Arrica Rose & the …’s "Low as the Moon"
pOprOck Records; 2017

www.arricarose.com

Arrica Rose has a captivating voice, perhaps in small doses for some, but it works for me. She has a commanding quiver at work as she stretches the syllables into further depths than many a singer. The …’s, and yes that is the band name here, provide a sumptuous quality that builds from the sparse feeling at the center of these songs. So all in all, this is somewhat a case of contrasts that work well together akin to salted sweets. There is a folk style even as this heads closer to a light brand of indie rock. But with interesting songs and interpretations as this, classify it as you like as you lean back and listen in.
© David Hintz


Gene Loves Jezebel "Dance Underwater"
Restricted Release/Westworld; 2017

www.genelovesjezebel.com

The veteran British rockers are back and although they still have one foot in the 1980s, they still sound fairly sharp and to date. They have a great vocal style that can soar around in a distant pop sense or pull back into a warm intimate style. The music has a dance beat to it, but guitars are prevalent and catchy. Some of the cuts have a ballad quality to them, but with enough pop moves to keep your feet moving. This is lighthearted music that although not my usual up of tea, was a fun listen.
© David Hintz


Double Naught Spy Car & Friends "Moof"
Foot Pole Records; 2017

www.doublenaughtspycar.com

If you are in the mood for some fascinating instrumental music that stretches surf music into interesting psychedelic indie rock terrain, then give this a listen. They sound a bit like a reigned in Man or Astroman?, as if they were channeling the Ventures. But there is ambient space rock and jazz in the mix as well. The worst song here is nice background music, while the others will engage your mind and body with a welcome energy. The special guests include Mike Watt, Nels Cline, and many more, all of whom add to the writing as well as the playing giving this a nice diverse result. And I always like to find creative song titles in instrumental bands like Mogwai or Kinski. Here, the winner of the best title is the closest link they have with folk music: ‘Rhymes of Chimney’.
© David Hintz


Shilpa Ray "Door Girl"
Northern Spy Records; 2017

www.shilparay.net

I was fortunate enough to review Shilpa Ray on stage for my blog DC ROCK LIVE on two occasions. I found her performances quite mesmerizing and the good news is that this LP continues to offer her magic. She begins with two songs that hearken back to old rock’n’roll, but somehow seem a bit off, like they were played in Twin Peaks. Her voice has a bit of Lesley Gore, but the lyrics are sharp and are not anywhere near the lighthearted fun and sun of the early rock days. There is also a jazz chanteuse quality to the vocal approach, but that does not really hit too close to the style presented here. Basically Shilpa Ray is an original with songs that are loud and crazy with others that are quiet and contemplative. It is no surprise that Nick Cave had her open for her as the Nick Cave style may give you the best idea of the overall feeling you will get here.
© David Hintz


The Warp the Weft "Mapping an Absence"
Own label; 2017

www.thewarptheweft.com

These Progressive Folk masters are back with a new LP. I do not use the term ‘masters’ lightly as they are one of the few bands that truly capture and refreshen the folk variation that happened in the late 1960s. There are some psychedelic elements here as well, but the intricate drive is reminiscent of unique bands like Fuchsia and Carol of Harvest. The quivering vocals are edgy, yet warm and the music moves effortlessly from pianissimo to forte. I should stress their fresh approach that adds to the classic style with originality. Still, any fan of the Incredible String Band, Steeleye Span, and all the classics of that era should be jumping all over this.
© David Hintz


Dry River "Prayin’ for the Rain"
Own label;2016

dryriver.hearnow.com

More electric blues on display here from this southern California band. There is a fair amount of harmonica and some variety in arrangements with acoustic and electric guitar combinations. There are even some straight up folk moments like in ‘Hildegard’, which is quite lovely. The vocals have a nice balance of power and soulfulness. No frills here, just a straight up delivery and a fairly decent record by the fourteenth song’s conclusion.
© David Hintz


Savoy Brown "Witchy Feeling"
Own label, 2017

www.savoybrown.com

I often intimate how difficult it is to review blues records, as the form has been done to death and even with a good record, it still makes for a better live experience—especially for newer bands/guitarists. But every now and then, a veteran blues master comes along with a release that delivers the goods. And with Kim Simmonds and his band Savoy Brown, you are talking about a band that has been around 52 years! So there is nothing really to say, other than the electric blues rock format remains the same. It is pure and steady and heavy in the roots, which is one reason they never really made major chart inroads over their career. But they have plenty of fans and the good news for them is that Simmonds still sounds great in both voice and guitar. Catch Kim Simmonds while you can as it surely won’t go on forever and enjoy the new album.
© David Hintz


Sugarfoot "The Santa Ana"
Crispin Glover Records; 2017

www.sugarfoot.no

I expected something wild, crazy, and over the top for a release on ‘Crispin Glover Records’, but instead was treated with a fine California styled indie rock/roots record. It starts in sort of a post-Badfinger pop vein, but heads off toward the west coast styled blues/folk/country rock. The harmonies are good and the music is light, but rocking enough. What began as something rather innocuous eventually turned into a fine record that the California crowd will go for.
© David Hintz


Woetmann "Nøgne Fødder"
GO Danish Folk Music, 2017

Artist Video

www.brianwoetmann.dk

The Woetmann is Danish folkster Brian Woetmann. He offers up his take on English-Irish-Danish folk variations. It is quite a mix with half instrumentals and half vocal led cuts in both English and Danish. He even has an older and interesting Ian Anderson cut, ‘Fires at Midnight’. The instrumentals have a down-home almost bluegrass style and much as UK/Ireland folk influence. The interesting variety will keep you tuned in and will likely have you coming back for more.
© David Hintz


Darden Smith "Everything"
Compass Records, 2017

Artist Video

www.dardensmith.com

It is none too surprising that Darden Smith has 15 albums on his resume already, along with many other musical activities in his life. This LP has a smooth confident approach, although his voice is warm and subtle. The music mostly matches that feeling as well a mix of singer songwriter, country, and folk styles blend together with only a slight west coast leaning brand of Americana. There is a bit too much country for me in a couple of songs, but the overall warmth and steady approach makes this a highly likable LP.
© David Hintz


Low Society "Sanctified"
Rezonate Records; 2017

www.screaminblues.com

Down and dirty blues is the formula here. It is a little more of the straight classic style and lacks that dirty cutting edge that I hear on many other records. They were from New York, but now operate out of Memphis with ties to Belgium here, as that is where their rhythm section is from. So there is a slick International approach that keeps things from teetering too far over the edge. That can be good or bad, it merely depends on your perspective. I actually preferred a variation of their main theme, the bluesy rock ballad ‘Nina’ that clocked in at 7:26 and pulled me in for every second.
© David Hintz


John Forrester "The Former Me"
Irregular Records, 2017

www.forrester.uk.com

Normally, I might wonder if I wanted to spend time with an album designed as a bridge between the last album and the next original work, but there may be something worthwhile in this release. Forrester has gone back to eight older songs and along with two covers has chosen to record them all with just voice and acoustic guitar. He eschews back-up vocals as well, so you are left with a well-recorded folk club styled outing. And the songs are interesting with his vocals bringing out the emotions from within. I would have preferred a bit more variety, but for fans and lovers of the purity of folk form, this will fill the bill.
© David Hintz


Kieran Halpin "Doll"
SOS Records, 2017

Artist Video

www.kieranhalpin.com

There is just a wee bit extra on this folk record as there is percussion and accordion or piano accompanying the vocals and guitar of Kieran Halpin. This gives an extra level of breeziness to the music, although the lyrics are quite direct and in your face. And this approach to songwriter has served him well as some notable artists often cover his songs. All in all, this is a solid record, delivered in a straightforward honest manner.
© David Hintz


Martha Tilston "Nomad"
Squiggly Records; 2017

Artist Video

www.marthatilston.co.uk

Yes, there are two famous offspring named Martha on the folk circuit (our subject here along with Martha Wainwright). Martha Tilston’s famous father and stepmother are of course, Steve Tilston and Maggie Boyle. But even without the draw of her name, it does not take even a full song before you will realize that you are dealing with a top-notch folk artist. And with talent like on display here, Martha Tilston has been drawing a strong base for some time now. Her vocals are both delicate and assured and the music quietly takes hold of you and allows your mind to drift away during the lyrics or the exquisite bridges and solos. This is a steady assured record with lovely songs for all folk fans.
© David Hintz


Jim Roberts and the Resonants "Beneath the Blood Moon"
Own label; 2017

www.jimrobertsandtheresonants.com

Although I can get tired of the sameness of blues records, many have a twist or turn that makes them all worthwhile. In this case, Roberts and his band have a quiet almost reserved tone in the guitar work that makes for a better array of sonics from all the instrumentation. The vocals are a bit restrained although worldly tough at just the right time, too. The songs are decent and just varied enough to keep someone like me alert to the differences, while still keeping in the overall blues approach. This one may sneak up on you if you are not careful. And don’t be careful.
© David Hintz


Scocha "Moonlight Again"
Own label; 2016

Artist Video

www.scocha.co.uk

Again, here is the case of a band labeling their music well—Scottish Folk’n’Roll. I would say this is a bit more rock than folk, but there are acoustic moments, fine harmonies, and lots of ethnic roots, so folk’n’roll works for me. It may work for you if you are in a relaxed state, though in want of a steady energetic infusion of fine music. If so, these kilt wearing musicians may do the trick. I think the quality of the vocals reminding me of Oysterband is what swings it for me.
© David Hintz


Low Roar "Once in a Long, Long While…"
Popup Records; 2017

www.lowroarmusic.com

If there is a roar at all it must be really low in frequencies not heard by human ear. Instead, there are smooth pop melodies with nice vocal harmonies atop a mix of electronica and traditional rock instrumentation. I suppose Fleet Foxes fans should give this a listen as there are many similarities in approach. Or maybe Purity Ring fans, either way those bands are not on my listening list, so this one was a ‘one and done’.
© David Hintz


Twelfth Day "Cracks in the Room"
Orange Feather; 2017

Artist Video

www.twelfthdaymusic.com

Although from Scotland, this duo has a more universal and much more modern sound than you may expect. It is simply two women on vocals with a secret weapon. Well not secret, but their trick is that they play fiddle and harp and that is their sole accompaniment on all of their songs. This unique approach will catch your ear, especially if you listen to as many new releases as I, and is quite welcome here. A unique sound like this will carry more mystery and attract more use of imagination than most music that fits established sound and pattern. And they are not overly radical, just taking a more modern approach in their folk. I enjoyed this and it is well worth spending time with this to see if their unique approach can carve a way into your world.
© David Hintz


Jonah Blacksmith "Northern Trail"
Northern Sound; 2017

www.jonahblacksmith.com

This has a pleasant Americana sound, well produced and assured. Although this Danish band probably have not spent much time in the American west, they certainly have spent time with the music. They have all the moves and create an impressive soundscape. The only criticism I have is that it slots too comfortably into this area and I would like something to stand out in a more unique manner. And even when this happens, it gets too dream pop as the album moves on. But this sound will likely pull in a lot of happy listeners and their songs are smart enough and catchy enough to take hold.
© David Hintz


Divertimento Folk "Folk & Roll"
Awen Records; 2017

www.divertimentofolk.com

Speaking of “folk’n’roll” like I did in the Scocha review above, here is a band that makes it even clearer with the genre by making that the title of their LP. Oddly enough, there are more folk and psyche folk elements, although they do rock out on some songs. The band is from Valladolid, Spain, and has some ethnic moves, but also move to nearby Morroco for inspiration.
© David Hintz


Hayseed Dixie "Free Your Mind… …and Your Grass will Follow"
Own label; 2017

Artist Video

www.hayseed-dixie.com

The band name and title create much confusion between southern/country style and urban funk/soul. And it is evident that they clearly intend this as the mission statement of the album. It is banjo and (Elvis Costello-like) vocals with violin, bass and light backing. Yet, there are covers of Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’, ‘Love Train’ and more. But there is also the Elvis Costello, Bob Marley, and many more. It is all breezy and likable enough, although it is a bit cotton candy… good, goes down quickly, but you don’t want too much of it. But if your game for something different, give them a try and live may be even better.
© David Hintz


Ezio "Daylight Moon"
Jazzhaus, 2016

www.facebook.com/...

This starts slow with ukulele and voice, but quickly moves into brisk folk rock territory and then back to more traditional acoustic guitar based folk. The playing is solid and the vocals handle the quiet and loud with comfort. All in all, this is just one solid record from some veterans who know how to put it all together. The variety is the stand out for me, as that always keeps me most engaged.
© David Hintz


Huck Blues "Für Chopin"
Rookie Records, 2016

www.facebook.com/...

As often as I have found covers, titles, and descriptions to be dead accurate recently, this release takes me back to the ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ principle. It’s a rough looking bleak cover of a band called Huck Blues. But although blues based, this is far away from traditional blues, and has mystical moments among an easy going blues rock that has a bit of swing and bounce to it. There is also that world-weary voice of experience in the vocals, which works well with the easygoing pace in many of these songs. I may not have picked this off the shelf of a record store, but I am happy to have found it.
© David Hintz


Jupiter & Okwess "Kin Sonic"
Glitterbeat, 2017

Artist Video

jupiterokwess.bandcamp.com

This is Congolese music with plenty of authentic tones in the mix, but brought forward with a modern dance sound. The guitar work is crisp and strong atop the undulating rhythms, while the vocals bounce around gleefully. This was fun and kept me moving, but I also enjoyed the rock sensibilities involved, even as the African rhythms and vocals always reminded me of what the core of the sound was.
© David Hintz


Lynne Hanson & the Good Intentions "7 Deadly Spins"
Own label; 2015

www.lynnehanson.com

This is an older record, but was well worth the listening time. This is subtitled Murder Ballads & Reckoning songs, which is just about right. Hanson’s fairly deep voice keeps a cool demeanor bringing a slight chill to these stories. Hanson and her band exchange solid guitar licks with a rhythm section and organ carefully pushing things forward. It is a classic formula, but is quite well done here. And I see Lynne Hanson has an even newer record out, which I won’t mind hearing some day.
© David Hintz


Mandol’in Progress "The Dark Side of the Mandolin"
Felmay, 2017

We may be running out of musical genres and subgenres, but there are new gimmicks born every year. This record is a complete cover of Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” performed instrumentally on mandolin, mandola, and mandocello. Now you may have to take a leap of faith with me, but this record is in some ways, more psychedelic than the original. The instrumental passages of ‘On the Run’ and the ‘Time’ introduction are as space exploratory as many a psychedelic record. The arrangements where the three instruments handle all the patterns and nuances of these songs is outstanding. So strike the word gimmick from my first sentence—this is an exciting and distinct reinterpretation of a highly recognized album.
© David Hintz


Les Ramoneurs de Menhirs "Ha Bagad Bro Kemperle"
Coop Breizh, 2017

www.ramoneursdemenhirs.bzh

We have more bagpipe punk rock madness from these crazy Breton Celts. I have enjoyed them in the past[44] and this new album is sharp as ever. The electric guitar is as ferocious as you could want as it battles the always in your face bagpipe sound to push these raucous tunes forward. Some of the songs have that punk singsong effect you’ve heard before, but the opening cut is a ferocious tour de force. And ‘Space Galetenn’ has almost a protopunk Hawkwind approach, although even more Eastern flavored. Not for the faint-hearted folkie here, but great raging fun for the rockers.
© David Hintz


Tim Grimm and the Family Band "A Stranger in this Time"
Cavalier; 2017

Artist Video

www.timgrimm.com

Here is a real family affair akin to the Fisher Family or the Waterson-Carthy combinations. While not quite that high level, there are moments as these songs flow comfortably by in a laconic Americana style. The lyrics are biting even as the vocal style is world-weary. Tim Grimm is the patriarch and is assisted by his wife and his two sons who add extra stringed instruments to the mix. Jackson Grimm assists with the writing and arranging, so this is a true family affair. And whether that connection helps them lock in together more easily, they accomplish it well nonetheless. This is a good steady album with plenty to say.
© David Hintz


Steven Ouma Band "Mahaba"
Hey!Band; 2017

www.steven-ouma-band.com

From Kenya to Germany comes Steven Ouma and his band. They concoct quite a brew featuring copious amounts of East African folk, reggae, soul, all with a dash or pop music understanding. It is a comforting mix of easy melodies, airy vocals, and a quiet punch of rhythm. If you are looking for something as dramatic as Thomas Mapfumo or Vieux Farka Toure, you should look elsewhere. But if you want a touch of Northern Soul with smooth reggae and unique folk sounds, keep it right here.
© David Hintz



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