If Looks Could Kill....

...They probably will in games without frontiers war without tears. So said Peter Gabriel.

I have long been a fan of Peter Gabriel and I am quite sad that I don't live anywhere near one of his concert stops. I also wish I was rich so that I travel to see him play. Oh well, such is life.

This week was actually last week, but things got very chaotic at work with the launching of the Arden Season with Joel Plaskett, so my time got sidetracked. So without further ado, here are my thoughts on a few CD's I listened to last week.

The Sound of the Life of the Mind by Ben Folds Five. AWESOME, but then again I am completely bias. I love this man, his writing is clever, and the music is always top notch. He's creative and wonderful. It's always nice when an artist you appreciate maintains his level of artistry, staying true to himself, yet evolving. It rare to find. Go buy this CD immediately. http://www.benfolds.com/

All the Way Home by Ocean Carolina. Solid laid back feel, reminiscent of a Josh Ritter or John Wort Hannam. While I liked this album, I found it faded to the background a little to easily for me. It's pleasant enough and it's sure to please many, it's just not one that will likely stay with me for long. http://www.oceancarolina.com/

When the Ledge is Home by Bi-Polar Bear. With a title like that and the group name I knew I was in store for a pop explosion of fun.......what? wait. Oh, right this CD was depressing. The writing and music was decent, but it didn't surprise or offer anything you would expect. There is potential for this band, as they are talented, and in spots the beats remind me of Jurassic 5, but let's just hope they continue to grow and step beyond their sad shadow or they will become the self fulfilling prophesy and end it all. http://rollwiththebear.com/ (PS: google searching bi-polar bear is super interesting)

Mirage by Band of Horses. They're happier on this record then I ever heard them before. It took me by surprise. And, I will admit it was a bit hard to hear, but I liked it. Super catchy rhythms and for the most part the lyrics were good, but not their best effort. Especially the track Dumpster World - super odd lyrics. Decent outing for a group who I suspect collective would like to be Neil Young when they grow up. http://www.bandofhorses.com/us/home

Carny Life by Pebaluna. Loved it! Great melodies and an amazing voice and instantly an atmosphere was created that drew me in. Some Jazzy guitar riffs lead into some Bossa Nova moods which drifted towards a quirk of ukulele - but it all works. Find it, Buy it. http://www.pebaluna.com/

Look into the Sky by James Iha. It's sort of reminiscent of a 60's/70's pop record. I really appreciate this record, it's cosmically breezy and easy to listen to. There is also a great list of guest artists on this record who all contribute, but don't overtake the sound James is creating. The only misstep for me was the track Appetite. It had an Iggy Passengers-esque sound that just creeped along and felt totally out of place. http://www.jamesiha.org

That's about it for last week. I plan on getting back on track with my regular Friday postings.

And as always, go buy music at your in a local record shop, they know what they're doing and will likely suggest something to you, that will blow your mind.