_CD Reviews 2013 (Page 3)

Deer Tick – NegativityPartisan Records–out tomorrow3 / 5 The famed Providence-based rock quintet has come back. They’ve hit up Rolling Stone on several occasions, and make frequent pit stops on our regional radio over here, and here’s the reason why: songs like “Christ Jesus,” “Smith Hill,” and “Ashamed.” And now, on their fifth studio full-length in as many years, “The Rock.” Leadman and writer John Joseph McCauley III is quickly gaining a reputation for quality (and quantity) rock – the man’s been in side projects galore, including the absolutely brilliant collaboration of Middle Brother. And he’s back, at least initially, but we can’t lie hereRead More →

Miniboone – Self-TitledErnest Jenning Record Co.-out today2.5 / 5 “I Could, I Could.” Just so much fun. When the New York rock/pop quintet hit it on their debut, they really hit it. But our issue with this album is that a lot of the material is filler. There just isn’t that much that begs replaying, despite the fun, vivacious style! Their tracks bleed youthfulness (often to the point of nausea); they rock out, albeit somewhat uncreatively; they shout their beliefs from the top of their lungs (the exuberance of 90s ska). And yet, there isn’t really a whole lot to commend the gents here. ThisRead More →

Paper Lions – My FriendsFountain Pop Records-out now3 / 5 Pop-foursome Paper Lions sing clear, straightforward pop on their sophomore full-length. Hailing from Belfast, Prince Edward Island, (that’s in Canada, in case you were wondering), their melodies are youthful, bright and polished, nostalgic and playful. It’s not just the polaroid that reminds us of a guitar-centric Vampire Weekend – they’re both pop lead by very clear male vocals. But we weren’t huge fans of Contra, nor of My Friends here because these songs simply aren’t dense enough, and don’t quite bring their subjects to a precise and memorable point. Let’s call that issue one. IssueRead More →