2007 Pre-Award Season Films Report

The Hoax - Richard Gere puts on an exceptional performance in portraying Howard Hughes biographer Clifford Irving. Alfred Molina gives great support as Irving's friend and partner-in-crime. There is a lot of dreamy imagery in this film, the dialogue and storytelling never becomes dull. I never got the sense that this one was seen by a large audience, which along with the fact the timing of it's release kills much Oscar potential, and the exposure it deserves. Maybe it'll have a chance to become a cult-film eventually at least. Much in the same status of THE JACKET or THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP (I was reading through Amoeba records 06-07's cd/dvd favorites list and actually noticed that one a handful of times, which may claim it to becoming a cult-film finally!); which I personally feel could and should reach the level of 2000 films like DONNIE DARKO and REQUIEM FOR A DREAM.



Cashback I was very moved by this short-film expansion into full-length feature. A guy (Sean Biggerstaff, from the 1st Harry Potter film) is dumped by his girlfriend, then starts a job at a supermarket when he's not at Art school. Ever since the loss of his girlfriend, he can't stop thinking about her and then finds it impossible to sleep. So what happens is he finds a way to slow time down where everything is frozen but him and his drawing materials; which he ends up using to enhance his portfolio of drawings of the female body. He ends up finding a connection to a girl at the grocery store, and the time-pausing turns this romantic-comedy upside down. The music and supporting comedy add even more reason to want to see this one again.



First Snow Surreal mysery with Guy Pearce seeing a soothsayer on an isolated road where his car is being fixed. The man tells him his death is near, but not much else other than it comes near "The First Snow." The film's pace at times moves a little slow, but the climax it leads to is all worth not missing. Great performances by Piper Perabo and JK Simmons. Another highly undermentioned potential classic. Fans of films like THE MACHINIST may owe it to themself to seek this one out on DVD.



Breaking And Entering - Jude Law's character faces a moral dilemma whether to turn in the boy who is involved in an unsolved robbery of technology used at his architecture company, or keep it silent after finding a connection with the boy's mother while in a struggling marriage. The twist the director takes this film seems somewhat real, my only real complaint about it was at times with Law's character the amount of emphasis on emotion doesn't come across as it could. But Juliette Binoche does compensate at times for that.



Stardust - Charming, humorous fantasy tale in the tradition of Terry Gilliam and films like THE PRINCESS BRIDE. Neil Gaiman finally has a one of his stories that qualifies to make a mark in Hollywood. The big names like Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfieffer, and Claire Danes, but the lead Charlie Cox really does breakthrough in this performance. A story about star that falls onto the Earth and a guy to try and win over a woman he desires, proposes to capture that star for her to win her love. Little does he know that *on the other side of the wall* lies a much different magical world. The novel I understand does not include the closet-gay Air-pirate ship captain played by De Niro, but it was one liberty that the writers probably pulled off for the better. This one could have been, or possibly still may have a shot at some award mentions as I found it to have a lot of the accessibilty that you notice in films that the Awards-Season champions. I probably also will always associate it with when the 35W bridge collapsed on Wednesday August 1st as I was watching it while the news of that tragic event occurred.



The Lookout - Cleverly and dreamy shot film about a guy who has trouble recalling much of his recent memories due to an accident when he was in High School. He ends up mixing with a guy in his town who befriends him but then leads to false intentions as he proposes to rob the bank he works at overnight. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is definitely one of the better young actors today, and I found this film much more appealing than 2006's BRICK. Jeff Daniels and Matthew Goode both give solid performances as well.




The Valet - Very funny and charming French film about a Valet who due to a random photo taken with a supermodel, gets mixed up in an attempt to expose an affair of a prominent businessman. This is another one of these engaging and lighthearted comedies I find reach our Art-house theaters in the States here that works really well. The dialogue is great, the women are more than easy on the eyes, Daniel Auteil puts on another fine performance as the guy who is easy to not root for and laugh at.


Death At Funeral - Slapstick and well twisted story of a funeral that Murphy's Law seems to be watching over at that precise time. From an accidental overdose of Acid, to an unknown gay love affair from the deceased that is an attempt at blackmail; this one does use some of the same jokes to the point of redundancy, but overall it doesn't end up hurting. The uncle played by Peter Vaughn, is worth enough laughs to see this one alone. Very British, and very much effective in what it set out to do.



Broken English - The 2nd Parker Posey film I saw this Summer, and the better of the two. A very relate-able story about a woman who has never found love after many years. She seems stuck in her NYC life and bad date after bad date. One day she meets a French guy who seems to latch onto her. He at 1st lacked charm, but a bit like in KNOCKED UP, he does grow on you and to the point when he's gone, you want him back with her. She seeks him out back in his home country of France after quitting her job and the ending works perfectly. Any single people who seem to be love's bitch, may find this film highly appealing. I know I did.


The TV Set - A movie looked forward to for nearly a year after reading great reviews of it at the 2006 TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL. David Duchovny is a TV writer whose show is being shown during "Pilot Week" in the Spring. The show does manage to gain momentum that week, but not without a price. This story is clearly inspired by writer/director Jake Kasdan's personal experience with the fickle prime-time network television industry of the past and present (he was involved with the short-lived cult show "Freaks And Geeks"). Anyone whose ever liked a show that got cancelled or wondered why a show is so popular that don't like should really see this movie. A similar situation to Corporate radio, it exposes what can happen to a great story (or artist) by demand and money. The cast is also good reason to see this starring Sigourney Weaver (not too different from her role in WORKING GIRLS), Judy Greer, Justine Bateman, Ian Gruffud, and even Philip Baker Hall. There are two scenes in particular that floored me. One was the tv show being shown to 20 different people in a room, the guy giving the instructions was hilarious telling these people, including this old grandma about controlling this rating knob the people were given to rate what they think of the show. He captured a lot of the way Gary Cole is in THE OFFICE..ya know "mmkay?..that would be terrriffic" and then this other short scene in a mall they have this woman ask random people about a name for a TV show and if they'd watch it. She goes over a bunch of names and then one she asks him "would you watch a show called 'Call Me Crazy'?"and the dude goes "yeah, because the dude is fucking crazy!" If you're a Christopher Guest fan..or know the Kevin Bacon film "The Big Picture" this one could be right up your alley.


Fay Grimm - Good cast starring Parker Posey and Jeff Goldblum especially, I didn't realize going in that this was a sequel/follow-up to "Henry Fool" which at times it really could have helped to have known that film's story. The previews made it seem comedic, but it actually was a lot more dramatic and action-oriented than I was expecting. Parker Posey is under pressure by the CIA to find her ex-husband who is not as they learn, in the USA anymore. She flees after him with her brother-in-law whose a nobel-prize winning author. This one has more in common with THE FUGITIVE than BROKEN ENGLISH, but overall it still works. And especially if you're a fan of the 1st, it's one to try and see.



Nancy Drew - Cute and charming depiction of the classic mystery seeking teenage girl. It is not cliched or one to take things too seriously or obnoxious attempts at slapstick. No, the VERONICA MARS comparison can be made to extent, and that's not a bad thing (unlike BRICK which may have been). Being a Disney film, it does have it's adolescent direction, but as a whole there is more depth to notice than most of the films aimed at that demographic. Definitely better than your Nickelodeon or Family channel movie of the week. Emma Roberts may have a bright future ahead of her if she doesn't fall into the Sarah Michelle-Gellar trap that Kristen Bell may be headed unfortunately.



Knocked Up - I was lucky enough to see an advanced screening of this back in April and was pretty impressed with it being more than just a film to stare at Katherine Heigl. Although, that was certainly a reason to go, but a lot of the jokes worked and I think solidifies Judd Apatow as a filmmaker of this era to be thought of now. Seth Rogen's character definitely grows on you throughout this movie. The only issue I still would say is the length being over 2 hours. I probably would go for another viewing since the theater was not exactly quiet and I remember missing a few lines here and there due to the broadcast laughter by others there. The response was maybe greater than THE 40 YEAR OLD VIRGIN, and justifiably, but I didn't expect it to be as big after seeing this one. Will it receive Awards mention? It's release time may kill that, but a lot of people most likely will be jotting it down on their list come next Winter.

Some that were not bad films, but do not compare on my list to the above.

Interview
Factory Girl
Color Me Kubrick
Puccini For Beginners
Harry Potter And the Order of the Phoenix
Spiderman 3

The films caught in between seasons:

Alpha Dog. Ben Foster should have been nominated for an Oscar for this one. Very moving, dark film that may have not received the amount of discussion it deserved. Justin Timberlake CAN ACT as proof here.

Children Of Men - I liked the use of King Crimson and the Pink Floyd nod. The filming/photography was worth seeing, but I'd recommend people see Y TU MAMA TAMBIEN instead from Alfonso Cuaron. The only character you actually like or notice development from is Michael Caine's character. A very dark, hard-to-watch, and confusing picture in the end.

Little Children - I wrote about this one last Winter. Kate Winslet is quite good, but different. Todd Field has a certain style, and having been a fan of IN THE BEDROOM, this film definitely shares some elements to that story. I'm glad Kate and Jackie Earl-Haley were recognized here, although in a way I'm also glad it wasn't Kate's 1st Oscar win since she has played roles that were probably even more deserving.

Anticipations
Rocket Science
Introducing the Dwights
Delirious (Steve Buscemi)
Romance And Cigarettes (Winslet, Buscemi, 2005 Musical finally hitting theaters)
Grace Is Gone (John Cusack)
On the Road with Judas
My Name Is Bruce (Bruce Campbell)
Sarah Landon and the Paranormal Hour
Margot At the Wedding (Jennifer Jason Leigh, Jack Black, Nicole Kidman)
Fanboys (Kristen Bell, William Shatner
Be Kind Rewind (Michel Gondry and Jack Black)

2007 Midseason Report

Note: A podcast may shortly be followed:

Albums:



1. Kaddisfly - Set Sail the Prairie. A work of art and journey of musical styles and flavors. Kaddisfly have broken through and grown immensely with this record. Having listened to it 100+ times over the last twelve months, speaks volumes for it's quality and demand to be played repeatedly. Like many classic albums, this one continues to grow on you and reveals new things about it over time and familiarity. The cracking chips for example in "Harbor" is a good example of that. Very much greater than the sum of all it's parts. And it has reached me on a spiritual level, which makes it worthy of my favorite record this year. The Summer, Fall, and Winter of 2006-07 will always be known for the time of Setting Sail on the Prairie for me.


2. Fair to Midland - Fables From a Mayfly: What I Tell You Three Times Is True. A band I first heard over a year ago. Like Mew last year, I would say I benefited from time away and a 2nd assessment to fully gain the desire to discover this band. "Inter.Funda.Stifle" still is a well put together, complete record. And very much a big progression from this band's debut record. But it's amazing how some re-arrangements, polishing, and especially mastering can up the level of the impact of a song or band's sound as a whole. David Botrill does deserve a lot of credit for the clarity and improved tightness of these songs and quality of the compositions. It flows incredibly well, from headbanger, catchy melody, heavy-hook, to soaring ballad. They hit on all cylinders without excessiveness on every track. The versatility of Andrew their singer is a trademark on here; and really of the Fair To Midland sound. The concept could be loosely similar to Aesop's fables or other childhood fairy tales. As well, as the premise of the film "Big Fish" perhaps. Those fictional imaginings even translate to the artwork, with quotes and characters from each track on each page.

This is a record you can play over and over, infusing energy and adrenaline that is not frequently found from start to finish. At 48 minutes, it is a perfect example of less being more, leaving you for wanting maybe a tad more. That extra chunk is the only thing preventing this from taking the crown. But it's damn near close, as after 3 months, it's still reliable and sounds fresh to my ears and mind.


3. The Dear Hunter - Act II: The Meaning of and All Things Regarding Ms.Leading. Casey Crescenzo's first full length LP since departing from The Receiving End of Sirens, a band who seemed to capture a lot of his genius on the only record he participated in. Casey's 2006 precursor EP "ACT I" and debut of The Dear Hunter, became something that caught me by storm, thus building up more interest in this one. While this record is quite different in many ways from "Act I" it does display more of why I believe he is one of the most talented young songwriters to arise this decade, This record is an epic chapter to the premise of this project. It's a story of "Hunter" as he's known, trials and tribulations, mostly involving a callgirl. A Rock Opera of sorts, similar in the tradition of The Who's "Tommy" to an extent, but not as story-based literally. Where he shines is creating the beauty and magic of what Brian Wilson was known for. The happy, barbershop vocal harmonies, and 60's style melodies. Beyond those, many songs recall older styles like ragtime and country blues. Putting aside the lyrical use in "Red Hands," it is about as orchestral and melodic a song as you'll hear this year. Every radio station on the globe should be playing it. "Dear Ms.Leading" is another that the more you hear it, the more you love it. Really the entire record is without a boring moment. As much as this one is long, there is enough flow and depth here, that it really works immensely well as an Epic record.



4. 3 - The End Is Begun. In hearing this (finished demos from a promo) one for a few weeks now, it's clearly to me my favorite 3 studio record. It is without a bad song, and includes a handful of tracks that work extremely well. And like many addictive records, the songs definitely start to grow on you over a few times. Lyrically it seems somewhat cynical and politcal about the state of things globally and the future. But that does not detract at all from the flow and quality of the songs. "My Divided Falling" and "Serpents in Disguise" may be the two strongest tracks overall. The former being complex, progressive, and aggressive, the latter being highly catchy, but still having punch. Many other songs have that punch and muscle that make this a great record. "The Word Is Born of Flame" and "The End Is Begun" also have punch and the groove element that 3 are known for, along with an infectious march that soaks you into the feel and flow of the album right off the bat. Once more people get to hear this record, they may not be able to avoid acknowledging how polished it is. With their recent exposure opening for Porcupine Tree and the newer fans who caught on to the band when "Wake Pig" was re-released, this could be the breakthrough this band deserves finally.



5. House of Fools - Live And Learn. This debut record from North Carolina's House Of Fools is very impressive. Noted in "Alternative Press" in 2006 for being one of "100 Bands You Need To Know" this album took a bit of time to finally come out. But it was well worth the that time. A concept album of sorts, that deals with primarily introspective and social situations. It flows remarkably well, never dragging. Capturing a lot of what many of the Classic Rock bands did in the 70's, one will notice hints of artists like Queen and Paul McCartney. The vocals are mostly minimalistic, which seems to really suit the House Of Fools sound well. Ballads, interludes, Ragtime themes, and even just clever catchy pop songs all work perfectly from beginning to end. Tracks like "Until It's Over," "My Life Before Today," "Better Part of Me," "Kiss the Haze," and the title track give an incredibly uplifting feeling. "Go Down" "Coke And Smoke" and "Interested" are also three other incredibly infectious songs that include things like a piano part, or guitar melody that you seem to find yourself loving. This is probably thus far, the most notably overlooked record of 2007. Whether it is that way in a year or two remains to be seen, but in the mean time, this is one band and album I will not stop singing the praises of. It unexpectedly impressed me a ton. And will go down as one of the best debuts this year and a very significant release on that big day of March 6th, 2007.

The Next Group

Avoiding ranking these seems fine for now since we are only 6 months in and more importantly, none of these seems vastly superior to the others thus far. But all of these albums have been in regular rotation to an extent this year, having many songs to want to go back to and hear each.

Kiss Kiss - Reality Vs. The Optimist. Very flowing debut disc. The length is the only issue, but they do make the most of the 32 minutes it is. Quite original style of Chamber, Progressive, and PostHardcore you could say. Love their string melodies in "Stay the Day" and "Vagabond" especially.

Bloc Party - A Weekend In the City. Another record that flows exceptionally well. No bad tracks on this, although some of the songs at times can sound samey. But it turned me into a fan, reminding me what i love about bands like Muse and U2. "Uniform" is probably the most *progressive* and biggest winner overall on this one. Lyrically it is quite dark however.

Silverchair -Young Modern. It is being released in the US on July 24th, this definitely is not a disappointment for newer Silverchair and Daniel Johns fans. About four or five tracks really sound grandiose and catchy, including the two singles "Straight Lines" and "Reflections of a Sound."

Pain of Salvation - Scarsick. Hardly their best, but through time this record does get better and better. The biggest moments do rank up there in the history of the band's best work. "A Flame to the Moth" "Scarsick" "Idiocracy" and "Enter Rain" all are included. The rest of the album is part of this record's "sound" and may get even better over time. Maybe the most unusual track "Disco Queen" is one that probably qualifies already, as the that one includes some incredible moments.

Fields - Fields. Somewhat unknown, this british group share some of the best qualities that bands like Pure Reason Revolution and Mew have. The Vocal and songwriting approach. They aren't as *progrock-like* as them, but they have some of the heavy riffs those groups or bands like Muse or Bloc Party have. But also a very strong emphasis on acoustic and folks stylings. "Song For the Fields" is an obvious highlight, but tracks like "The Death" "Feathers" and "If You Fail We All Fail" are as well. An impressive debut record.

Aereogramme - My Heart Has A Wish That You Would Not Go. A Scottish band that was around for a number of years prior to this release, this one possibly has received the most distribution, but sadly it may be their last as the band announced not long after it's release their breakup later in the year. Maybe not necessarily a reason to martyr-ize a band, but there are a handful songs on this one. "The Running Man" maybe being my favorite. "Barries" "Exits" "Living Backwards" and "Trenches" all have some great moments. The ethereal and atmospheric. The pretty, ambient, and heavy riffs this band combines well, which is one of the best things I love about a band like Mew or Klimt 1918.

Stateless - Stateless. Another solid debut record from a UK band. This album has about 4 or 5 songs that I really like. The best probably being "Bluetrace" with it's buildup and layering. It reminds me of Pure Reason Revolution. It is one of those songs that got better over a few times hearing it. "Exit," "This Language," and "Running Out" are the other songs I frequently go back to as well. Not being familiar with much of DJ Shadow or Massive Attack, I still was able to get into this one surprisingly.

Blackfield - Blackfield II. The second record from Steven Wilson and Aviv Geffen. This guy probably doesn't have as many huge moments on it than the 1st, but it seems to have more depth in quality songs. "Christenings" may be my favorite. A catchy tune. Other tracks of note, "The End of the World" and "Where Is My Love?"

Paulson - All At Once (reissue). Almost seeming like a guilty pleasure at 1st. This band have an impressive ability to create poppy hooks that work. Probably best on the track "I Knew You When." Fans of the over-the-top catchiness of Coheed And Cambria or even Men, Women And Children last year, may find the same thing with this album and that song especially. The reissued edition includes some extra songs, which ultimately makes it seem a bit lengthly, but more than half of the songs on it still really work. Tracks like "Miami Current" have a crazy synth bridge. "Just Shy" "Ultra High" "Voids" among them. The drummer Jeff Widner has one of the cleanest snare drum sounds I've ever heard. Similar to someone like Dino Campanella from dredg.

Deas Vail - All the Houses Look the Same. Another group who share elements of the Danish band Mew. The higher range vocal style, with ambient layering and a heavier guitar riff. The entire record I haven't found myself having to hear repeatedly, but a couple of songs especially they hit the nail on the head melodically. "Shadow And City Lights," "Surface," "Shoreline," and "Anything You Say" are the songs I found myself going back to.


The New Pornogaphers - Challengers. In playing this one off and on over the past month, I have probably raised my level of interest in this band. Although, they are not a group whose totally blown me away, I can't deny their consistency. "Entering White Cecilia" "Unguided," "Myriad Harbour" are my early favorites, but especially the pieces Neko Case sings lead on really sound great. The production on this album impressed me as much as anything. It drops finally on August 21st.


The Apples In Stereo - New Magnetic Wonder. Being new to this band and only listened to this album a couple of times, my feeling about it is probably not what it may become. But at least I can claim to like more than half of the 24 tracks it includes. Maybe the best of the Elephant 6 bands at putting together great Poppy Psychedelic Rock. Almost too much at times. They are one-part fun, one-part trippy, and one-part analog. "Beautiful Machines Part 3-4" "Crimson" "Sunday Sounds" and "Energy" are probably the early favorites. Definitely a competitor for Power-Pop record of the year.

Disappointments, uncertainties, and lower interest albums:

Battles - Mirrored. I haven't spent a ton of time with this guy, but among a lot of buzz, I have gone back to it a couple of times. Mood music for myself. It does remind me well of 80's Crimson/Fripp/Eno and The Residents for what that's worth. I'm not fully clear on why it's as popular as it is however, but I suppose I could say the same about some "Post Rock."


Porcupine Tree - Fear of a Blank Planet. Not a bad record compositionally, I just haven't found reason to go back to it. Lacking energy and flow unlike the last three records from this band. It was far too hyped up to fulfill my hopes and expectations. "Anesthetize" years from now might be a classic epic, but within the whole record it doesn't matter. Also it somehow feels far too short and might work better with more meaty songs.

Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos. Not a classic record, but not quite as over-the-top as their recent work. Four songs work, one songs does not, and the others would work far better with a lot of editing and un-useful gymnastics. "In the Presence Of Enemies Part 1" and "Forsaken" are both well written. "Prophets Of War" has a strong hook, and actually the lyrics don't matter ultimately. The opposite could be said about "The Dark Eternal Night" possibly one of the band's worst songs lyrically ever, and it comes across musically as well. A song I don't foresee wanting to hear for a long time. "Constant Motion" has an acceptable chorus, but what makes it work is the outstanding bridge.

Marillion - Somewhere Else. Nothing like the classic "Marbles," instead this is a very slow and depressing album. There still are a handful of songs that work on here, but the overall feel and mood of this one prevents it from deserving repeated play. Kinda disappointing given how great their last record was. But not unlike some of their past history. Highlight tracks include "Somewhere Else," "The Wound," "A Voice From the Past," and "The Other Half."

Rush - Snakes And Arrows. With some buzz about this one being more reminiscent of their classic era, and a general hype about this one, the newest Rush record has not translated to be much different than their recent work. The style and songwriting is quite similar to 90's Rush and their last record "Vapor Trails." The production is better, but save for the instrumental "The Main Monkey Business" I cannot find anything on this one so far to want to go back and listen to.

Omar Rodriguez-Lopez - Se Dice Bisonte, No Bùfalo. I have yet to go back to this many times more due to time and it slipping my mind. When I did play it, I was surprisingly impressed by a lot of it. Cedric Bixler sings on a couple of the songs. The 11+ minute "Please Heat This Eventually" I recall being the most likeable track. And while it still had some of the symptoms of the last Mars Volta record, it didn't meander to the same degree. Maybe one of the more overlooked albums so far by myself and others in 2007.


Jason Falkner - I'm Ok...You're OK. A late addition here, I was up for this one at 1st as from the limited number of solo songs by him I have heard I have liked many. However, the entire disc didn't go that far for me. One or two tracks I recall liking, although I am not remembering which ones they were. But I do recall a lot of the songs having a cool melody but not quite going far enough and a lot of samey-ness. I probably need to give this one another go like some others though.


Chick Corea and Bela Fleck - The Enchantment. Very much of a mood record for me. I need to go back and play it again, but I recall them quoting at least one or two pop tunes in a Jazz style. Not overwhelming, but not bad either. More of what you'd expect from these two.

Dean Magraw - Unseen Rain. Dean's latest with his trio. About 1/3 of this really works, including the Coltrane piece and the numbers that remind me of Pat Metheny. The rest kinda put me to sleep, but that may have more to do with how much of a *mood album* this is. I still find he shines a lot more live anyway.

Abigail's Ghost - Selling Insincerity. I want to like this band, and at 1st I was impressed by their diversity of kinds of songs. But the *influence* the recent Porcupine Tree has on this album and band's sound seems a bit too close to copying, rather than influence. Thus far, they seem too much like a Poor man's Porcupine Tree at best. Maybe I need to play it more.

Circa Survive - On Letting Go. The vocal style hasn't changed enough for me to like this band. The songs and production is a step-up at least, but ultimately it doesn't make a difference. I may never be able to call myself a fan of this band until Anthony Green stops singing for them.

Portugal the Man - Church Mouth. I have sampled this but wasn't getting a sense of a lot of progression from their last. The Mars Volta copying will probably have to end if my interest will continue.

Menomena - Friend And Foe. I'm new to this band, and am not fully clear how I feel about them. Their last record I seem to really like, but the one time I put this on, I recall being bored to tears. Maybe it requires more time.

Dominici - 03: A Trilogy part 2. I heard it once, and as much as I loved the guy with DT, and the 1st effort seemed adventurous; this album is not my thing anymore, if it ever was. Very much like "Train of Thought" from Dream Theater, but it's not even Dream Theater.

Slavior - Slavior. I love Mark Zonder as a drummer, and some of the music here I recall liking. But the singer is too much butt-rock and it suffers from too much of an old-school Metal writing approach. Mark, that's wonderful this came out, but I still hope you have interest in doing that "Alfa Dog" project with Gary Wehrkamp from Shadow Gallery.

Glory Opera - Equilibrium.I was suggested this is a band who captures the Andre Matos-Angra style really well. Maybe so, and maybe their singer is better than the average Power/Prog Metal vocalist, but I was lost in over-indulgnece and cheese. Maybe this style has left my tastes, or for the people who make those comparisons, they are not hearing what I do. More power to them. I may want to give it another go eventually and see if my mind changes.

EPs
The Apex Theory - The Lightpost EP. This is a remarkable piece this band seemingly have refined and re-identified themselves with. A 15+ minute epic track, it hardly seems to last that long it flows so well. It is the springboard to the upcoming full length "Faces" due out in September.

Portugal the Man - It's Complicated Being A Wizard.This was like one long trip-hop noodlefest gone bad and drug-induced. And then repeated as individual songs. Nothing that I recall that would warrant any repeated play.

Haven't Heard:
The Pax Cecilia - Blessed Are the Bonds
Alan Morse - Four O'Clock And Hysteria
The Bad Plus - Prog
The Aliens - Astronomy For Dogs
Amaran's Plight - Voice In the Light
Machinehead - The Blackening
Thought Chamber. Angular Perceptions. I like Ted Leonard a lot, but the music sounded incredibly like recipe prog.
Between Two Skies - A Thousand Conscious Moments EP

The 2nd Half's biggest anticipations:
Coheed And Cambria - No World For Tomorrow
The Receiving End of Sirens - The Earth Sings Mi Fa Mi
King's X - Go Tell Somebody
Oceansize - Frames
The Apex Theory - Faces
The Mars Volta - The Bedlam In Goliath

Questionable:
Superior - New World Order
dredg
Pure Reason Revolution
Mew
Anathallo
Enchant
Doves
Ours - Dancing For the Death of an Imaginary Enemy
Margot & the Nuclear So And So's - Animal!
Klimt 1918
Imogen Heap
Andre Matos
Shaaman
Karnivool
Demians - Building An Empire
Opeth
Orphaned Land - ORWarriOR
U2
Peter Gabriel/The Big Blue Ball
Janus
Bend Sinister
Revere
Kaura
One Republic

Sorry it's been so long..

There should be a handful of reviews in the next few weeks. And to add, the music-related reviews, blogs, etc will be cross-posted over at Channelinthestreet.com as well.

2007: The Year of Kermit the Prog

2007 is looking to be a HUGE year for new albums and music in general. In recent years Progressive Rock has seen a gradual resurgence in cult fanbases and even among the demographics who are into more popular kinds of music. "Prog" once was looked down upon, now is becoming somewhat cool again. Music listenors are grasping onto bands who are into playing music that makes you think. This new year of ours could see the biggest resurgence in visibilty and accessibility to Progressive music. The following records are among the key releases the fans may look back on 2007 for being a significant year for Progressive Rock.


Kaddisfly - SET SAIL THE PRAIRIE
Release Date: March 6th, 2007
This is the 2nd full length on Hopeless Records for Oregon's Kaddisfly. A concept record that has fourteen tracks, twelve of which each represent a separate month on the calendar and a location on a map. The music itself is quite diverse: ranging from soaring ballads to headbang-able crescendos. Each song, like each month, has a flavor of it's own. The experience hearing this record from beginning to end is a journey. It truly is a record that is much greater than sum of all it's parts. In many cases Kaddisfly are a band who effectively grow on you with repeated listens. Their previous record "Buy Our Intention: We'll Buy You a Unicorn" had many of those same qualities, but it's clear how much this group has learned and matured from that previous album. And to note, "Set Sail the Prairie" is the 2nd of a planned Trilogy of albums conceptually. The trilogy of songs off the previous album "Buy Our Intention: We'll Buy You a Unicorn," "Set Sail the Prairie," and "Horses Galloping On Sailboats" are a map of the groups recent past, present, and future in song and in potential experience. I believe this record will put this band "on the map." All that is required now is time.
Track Suggestions: The whole record. Sampling: Campfire, Via Rail, Forest, Harbor, Empire
Recommended If You Like: dredg, MuteMath, Coheed and Cambria, Enchant, Oceansize, Minus the Bear.
kaddisfly.com
myspace


Pain of Salvation - SCARSICK.
Release Date: January 30, 2007
This has been a long awaited full length album from this Swedish Metal band. Ever since 2002's "Remedy Lane" the band haven't released a traditional studio album; with 2003's live acoustic record "12:5," and 2004's highly conceptual Opera of sorts "Be." The people who do know this group have wanted another classic full length recording to feast upon. With this album, the band seem to be "progressing" in it is an album that has them still being quite different than their previous work. Pain of Salvation are a band about growing, changing, and trying to push envelopes in sound and in art. Highly political, it is not easy to ignore the messages founding member Daniel Gildenlow is expressing here about American society and it's impact on the rest of the globe's lives. Beyond the messages and the politics, there still exists many elements to value on this release. There is Pain of Salvation's trademark experiemental vocals, odd time signatures, and infectious use of heavy and melodic; thrash with beauty, and Daniel Gildenlow's large spectrum of characterized vocals. Among the songs, the opening title-track catches your attention. "Disco Queen" is a song that like this album, may grow on you as an older and new listenor. On the surface it sounds like it's a sarcastic tribute to the Bee Gees, however, within the whole piece it has some of their most ironic and brilliant work. How does a band write a song that sounds like you should dance to it, and then it becomes emotionally charged thrash? Somehow this band manages to pull it off without it turning into a mess. "Flame to the Moth" and "Idiocracy" are two other pieces that over time will stand out. And the closer "Enter Rain" some may find to be best heard like meditative hymn, may grow on you like many of their other songs. It's also not to be forgotten this record has been proclaimed the 2nd Chapter of "The Perfect Element" story. The previous part, which was released in 2000, is to some, the band's most moving achievement thus far. Over time, this chapter, may carry on that feeling until we hear more to the story.
Track Suggestions: The whole record. Sampling: Scarsick, Flame to the Moth, Idiocracy, Kingdom of Loss, Disco Queen
Recommended If You Like: Dream Theater, Faith No More, Fates Warning, Opeth, Tool.
painofsalvation.com
myspace


Marillion - SOMEWHERE ELSE
Release Date: April 9th, 2007
The follow up to 2004's doubled-sided opus "Marbles" which was possibly their most well received release in many years. This new record I imagine seeks to continue on with the quality of craft of that record. MARBLES was an album very polished and with much depth. This upcoming album on the surface does not have a similar structure. But in recent times, Marillion have not necessarily found depth and large scale epics to be their only if not best quality. Beneath so much of their progressive rock roots, this group has always been about infusing incredible levels of passion and surreal melodies. They are as much a clever pop band as a tight collection of musicians. Steve Hogarth frequently comes up with moments that etch in the listenors brain long after they have heard them. 2001's "Anoraknaphobia" and 1999's " Marillion.com" were both records that recognized the band could be Progressive and still emphasize good songwriting. Many bands like to stress how their current record is not entirely like, but still a reflection of their last. "Somewhere Else" does not have any lenghtly pieces as Marbles did, but it may echo some of what their recent albums all had in them.
Track Suggestions: Somewhere Else, Wound, Voice From the Past
Recommended If You Like: Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Porcupine Tree, Genesis, U2.
marillion.com
myspace


Release Date: April 24th, 2007
Porcupine Tree - FEAR OF A BLANK PLANET.
This highly anticipated record includes mostly material that the band performed live on their fall tour in 2006 to support their 1st live DVD "Arriving Somewhere." From many accounts, the material has the group going into some territory they have yet to explore. In recent years, they have incorporated a lot of heavier elements into their music. Frontman and founder Steven Wilson's experience and relationship with Opeth frontman Mikael Akerfeldt, has impacted Porcupine Tree's sound as much as anything. 2002's "In Absentia" sonically was very impressive, but also showed how much different the band could be. From many accounts, this one may exceed that amount of emphasis even more. Particularly the epic "Anesthesize." Porcupine Tree craft clever songs and touching melodies with atomsophere and adrenaline. Spacey hard-rock with loops and layers. There are many things to notice about this group's music, and with each release, their comes more reasons to listen. On 2005's "Deadwing" the band included guest performances from King Crimson's Adrian Bellew and Opeth's Mikael Akerfeldt. On this upcoming record, the listenors are treated to contributions from King Crimson's Robert Fripp and Rush's Alex Lifeson. If for no other reason, those names add more interest for this one.
Track Suggestions: Anesthetize, Sentimental
Recommended If You Like: Pink Floyd, Radiohead, King Crimson, Marillion, Muse, Mew, Rush.
porcupinetree.com
myspace


Rush - SNAKES AND ARROWS
Release Date: May 1st, 2007
The famed Canadian Power Trio's return to the studio in a few years may embark upon a new zest for ideas and interest in the band. From some reports this new record has the band incoporating many elements of their classic periods. The band at one time were one of the most visible Progressive Rock groups. From the buzz among fan communities, this album could be much different than their most recent modern-rock sounding efforts. The band themselves have even mentioned the great energy and creative juices that they put into it. We may see a return to their progressive past with it. No matter, Rush have always been about trying to move forward, and this very well may be their best effort in many releases at doing so. The impact of Neil Peart and Alex Lifseon listening to some newer Progressive Rock groups like The Mars Volta and Porcupine Tree, may have influenced some of the direction of this one. That could raise the level of curiousity, and of how much this album reflects that.
Track Suggestions: The Main Monkey Business, Far Cry
Recommended If You Like: Dream Theater, The Mars Volta, Porcupine Tree, Muse, Led Zeppelin.
rush.com
Neil Peart's myspace


Dream Theater - SYSTEMATIC CHAOS
Release Date: June 2007
The Ninth full-length album from NYC-based quintet Dream Theater marks a new chapter in their history. The band recently signed to a new record label, RoadRunner Records, and seems to be expanding their fanbase with each album and passing year. By some, their classic period was their early days, while other fans have caught-on in the last few years to enjoy the band. They don't deny their influenced by the original Progressive Rock bands, but as much if not moreso by older Heavy Metal and many modern Rock and Metal bands. There is a lot to digest and emphasize about this band's sound. Many enjoy their astute musicianship, while others find the musicianship complements their melodic side. The fact the band seem to have found this upcoming release to be a "new chapter," may suggest it to be their most significant album since 1999's "Scenes From a Memory." That record clearly was the band attempting to make a statement, and go-in with a new approach. This new record may be much in the same, in that just when you think you know what to expect from Dream Theater, the band manages to turn your head again. So don't be surprised to see another strong statement from this group, largely considered the most visible "Progressive Rock" band to surface in the last 20 years.
Track Suggestions: N/A
Recommended If You Like: Rush, Yes, Pink Floyd, Tool, Metallica, Queen, Steve Vai.
dreamtheater.net
myspace

Coheed And Cambria - Good Apollo, I'm Burning Star IV, Volume Two: No World For Tomorrow
Release Date: Fall
This new record (unofficially titled "Good Apollo, I'm Burning Star IV, Volume Two: No World For Tomorrow. Part Four of The Amory Wars (Volume 2)") from Upstate NY based Coheed and Cambria is highly aniticipated by many. This group is known for it's records connecting through a Science Fiction story accompanied by a graphic novel. Their music is highly catchy, and not without flash and flare. With each record, they seem to have developed more tight musicianship and strong songwriting. 2005's "Good Apollo I'm Burning Star IV: Fear Through the Eye Of Madness" was a marathon of hook after hook, melody after melody, and crescendo after crecendo which by the time it ended, you wondered how there could be anymore to the story. Their new release may flow and progress even further. This band just knows how to kick your ass with complexity and some of the most mindblowing hooks ever recorded. I would not be surprised to find this record in heavy rotation among many new and casual listenors' playlists for quite awhile.
Track Suggestions: N/A
Recommended If You Like: The Mars Volta, dredg, Dream Theater, Rush.
coheedandcambria.com
myspace


dredg - TBA
Release Date: Fall 2007 (tentative)
Dredg are a four-piece group that has changed and evolved an incredible amount over their history with three studio and one live album. They are constantly adding colors and layers to their style and sound that it is very difficult to pinpoint how to describe their music. 2002's "El Cielo" was a concept record involving many different factors. Inspired by the artwork of Salvador Dali, it trancends the visual, but also reaching in and telling the heartfelt story of many suffering from the condition of sleep paralysis. 2005's "Catch Without Arms" examined many challenges the band faced as professional musicians, as well as reflecting upon their recent success of the previous record. The next album might have them introducing new elements to their sound, but also including what made their last two records great. Organic touches of strings and horns. The vocals have been a big part of their sound. Gavin Hayes seems to be improving a ton with experience and age as a singer and writer. Word is he is to play some guitar as well on this new album. Like every other dredg studio release, this album will have a concept. The concept and beauty that has come from this group's past, very easily could standout again with this one.
Track Suggestions: N/A
Recommended If You Like: The Mars Volta, Marillion, The Police, U2, Tool, MuteMath.
dredg.com
myspace


Oceansize - TBA
Release Date: Fall 2007 (tentative)
This newer group from the UK have impressed many with their wall-of-sound layering and psychadelic trips. They truly have a "big sound" and when embraced, will slam right it into your brainwaves like you didn't know what hit you. Adrenaline is clearly involved, but their sound still manages to segue into the gentle and melodic. Both of their previous full-lengths have orgasmic moments that will not allow you to forget. However, each one also seems to be inkling on the potential that there is a more complete work to come. They could put-out a record soon that may become the trademark release which often happens early in a band's career. Oceansize's 2007 output may result in that.
Track Suggestions: N/A
Recommended If You Like: Pink Floyd, Pain of Salvation, Porcupine Tree, Kaddisfly
oceansize.co.uk
myspace


Mew - TBA
Release Date: Fall 2007 (tentative)
Surreal, ethereal, dreamy are all qualities one could describe the danish band Mew. Four releases, but really only known well for two full-lengths. There seems to be a ton to enjoy about this band's music. "And the Glass Handed Kites" seems to have two sides to it of different flavors. The first side is very flowing and energetic. The second more mellow and inconsistent. The previous album, "Frengers" was an introduction to most fans outside of Denmark. It has a ton to like, but also could be foreshadowing with more to come. The band seemed to be inspired by some darker and heavier things with "Kites." With their next recording they may combine the influences of both of these albums, but at the same time "progressing." They could be on the brink of a classic in their near future, possibly what they put out in 2007.
Track Suggestions: N/A
Recommended If You Like: Porcupine Tree, Sigur Ros, Pure Reason Revolution, Muse, Yes
mewsite.com
myspace


Pure Reason Revolution - TBA
Release Date: Fall 2007 (tentative)
An "epic subconscious space tale" is one description of Pure Reason Revolution's debut album "The Dark Third" from 2006. In its many different versions, it managed to flow and capture many listenor's attention. What will come next is uncertain, but this ensemble seem to have enough ambition to potentialy conceive something more bold. The Trip-Hop element may surface more prominently based on a bonus track "Golden Clothes," which was included on the newest version of their debut disc, just recently released on InsideOut Music in Europe. For all the momentum they gained through almost a year of support of The Dark Third, the sophmore effort could bring on even greater reason to be jazzed about how "Ace" this group is.
Track Suggestions: N/A
Recommended If You Like: Pink Floyd, Porcupine Tree, Muse, The Beach Boys, Led Zeppelin.
purereasonrevolution.com
myspace


The Mars Volta - TBA
Release Date: Summer 2007 (tentative)
The fourth full-length LP from this somewhat contraversial ensemble was written at the same time as their most recent record, 2006's "Amputechture." Largely influential and highly experimental, fans have seen this group continue to change and expand on their influences. The Rick Rubin produced debut "Deloused in the Comatorium" was rather impressive for a first output as well as being different than most commercially visible music. The follow-up "Frances the Mute" met more contraversy, but also more praise at times. More epic in scale and length, The Mars Volta added a lot more color. The record that followed that one seemed to be an attempt at combining the experimental side of FRANCES and the flow of the their debut, but ultimately may have fallen short. Some of the best ideas may have been held over for this fourth studio release, saving for the fact their drummer Jon Theodore has left the group and been replaced live three times, most recently by Berklee College of music alum Thomas Pridgen. Like their previous three, this next record is to be another concept album. This band have enough ideas and talent to potentially top everything they've done. By the end of this year, we may see that.
Track Suggestions: N/A
Recommended If You Like: King Crimson, Pink Floyd, Coheed And Cambria, Led Zeppelin, Rush, Yes.
themarsvolta.com
myspace

Like in most years, many unknown groups pop-up, but in support of how much progressive music could come out this year, and how much depth 2007 could have for this style of music, here are a number of other groups who are noteworthy bands to look for albums out in 2007:

Kiss Kiss: This NY-based ensemble released an impressive debut LP in February "Reality Vs. the Optimist" that is one of those albums that seems to be more than the 32 minutes it clocks in at. RIYL: King Crimson, Queen, System of a Down, Murder By Death

House Of Fools "Live And Learn" was released in early March. "The Flaming Lips trying to cover the Beatles in a Rock Opera" is one reasonable description. RIYL: Queen, 10CC, Ben Folds.

The Dear Hunter 1st side-project turned full-time group for former The Receiving End Of Sirens member Casey Crescenzo. The debut EP released in 2006 is the springboard for the first full-length Chamber Rock chapter. RIYL: The Receiving End Of Sirens, The Beach Boys, Queen, Coheed And Cambria, dredg.

Klimt 1918 Gothic progressive Hard-Rock. 2005's "Dopoguerra" was a breakthrough for this Italian band. the follow-up is anticipated to come out sometime in 2007. RIYL: dredg, Katatonia, Mew.

Superior German Progressive Metal band have a new album coming out in May called "New World Order." This is their first release in nearly five years. RIYL: Dream Theater, Savatage, Pain of Salvation, Metallica.

Fair To Midland The first fully distributed full-length release "Fables From a Mayfly: What I Tell You Three Times Is True" is expected out in early June from this Texas-based band. David Bottrill produced it, who is known for work with the likes of Tool, Peter Gabriel, and King Crimson among others. RIYL: dredg, System of a Down, Opus Dai.

The Receiving End of Sirens The follow-up to 2005's classic "Between the Heart and the Synapse." Key singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Casey Crescenzo is gone, but the band managed to tour and now write another album "The Earth Sings Mi Fa Mi" expected out in July. RIYL: The Dear Hunter, Coheed And Cambria, Kaddisfly, dredg, Circa Survive.

Demians Brainchild of french musician Nicolas Chapel, the long awaited debut release "Building An Empire" could finally be available in 2007. To note, french metal band Gojira is on the same record label as this group; and Gojira over the course a few months became very popular. The same may hold true for this band soon. RIYL: Devin Townsend Band, Pain of Salvation, Peter Gabriel.

Janus Somewhat unknown Chicago-based progressive metal band. 2004's debut "Armor" showed some potential. The band have a new record in the works which many of the songs they have on their myspace likely will include. RIYL: 3, Coheed And Cambria, Rage Against the Machine, Circa Survive.

Anathallo is anticipated to make the follow-up to 2006's well received "Floating~World." Chamber-Rock of a sort, this group has always put out impressive music, which lends one to not question the beauty and quality of their next album potentially out in the fall of 2007. RIYL: Margot & the Nuclear So and So's, Frank Zappa, dredg, Sufjan Stevens, Revere, My Latest Novel.

Margot and the Nuclear So And So's have a large collection of songs written for the follow-up to the debut LP "The Dust of Retreat." Song-oriented chamber-rock. Plenty to like and "progressive" about this large ensemble. RIYL: Anathallo, Sufjan Stevens, dredg, Ours, Revere.

3 have spent some time recently in the studio working on the follow-up to 2004-05's breakthrough "Wake Pig." The neext album is expected to come out in June on Metal Blade Records.RIYL: Coheed And Cambria, King's X, Janus.

Enchant remain an active and still somewhat underground Neo-progressive Hard Rock band. They have been working off and on their next full-length album to follow-up 2004's "Tug of War." Word is it may be released by the fall of 2007. RIYL: Rush, Marillion, Dream Theater, Coheed and Cambria, Kaddisfly.

Bend Sinister hail from Vancouver, BC. Very unknown, yet impressive for a band so early in their history. A full-length or EP could manage to come in 2007 for this band who have had a bunch of new songs on their myspace for awhile. It will be the follow-up to a classic debut record "Through the Broken City" that came out in 2005. RIYL: Queen, The Mars Volta, Jeff Buckley.

Ours have worked for nearly five years on the third full-length record "Dancing for the Death of an Imaginary Enemy" which was announced the title early in 2007. It is only a matter of having their record label's situation put in ink as to when the album comes out. Likely to be the group's most "progressive" and diverse album, many of the songs have been played for years live. RIYL: U2, dredg, Jeff Buckley, Jellyfish.

Opeth, swedish progressive black-metal group are anticipated to release the follow-up to 2005's "Ghost Reveries" sometime late in 2007. RIYL: Pain of Salvation, Porcupine Tree, Dream Theater, Katatonia.

King's X have a twelfth studio album expected out as early as the Summer of 2007. "Go Tell Somebody" it was mentioned on a recent myspace blog, is the title. An interview given recently, singer/bassist Doug Pinnick talked about how this album has a large Beatles and classic King's X influence. RIYL: Jimi Hendrix Experience, The Beatles, Fishbone, Living Colour.

Andre Matos Band Andre Matos, formerly the frontman/singer/keyboardist/composer of Brazilian Progressive Metal bands Angra and Shaman is expected to release a solo debut album in 2007. A demo is available to stream on his website. RIYL: Dream Theater, Queensryche, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Savatage.

Blackfield is maybe Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree most welll-known and accessible sideproject with Israeli singer/songwriter Aviv Geffen. "Blackfield II" was released early in 2007. Although more stripped down and song-oriented than Porcupine Tree, there are a lot elements of Progressive Rock with this band and their newest release. RIYL: Porcupine Tree, Radiohead, Nick Drake, Depeche Mode.

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The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy

I just finished watching the entire deluxe edition DVD set of 'The Lord of the Rings' again, and I can't say how amazed I am at how well the movie has held up so far. I will put aside my gripes over the book to silver screen comparison and just say that this movie has left me speechless once again.

Peter Jackson has done a job that no one else could ever really do well: bring the greatest fantasy novel to life. With an incredible cast of actors, a stunning visual world, and a beautiful soundtrack, this movie is the be all end all of fantasy motion pictures. I truely believe that none will ever top this work of cinematic genius.

With 'The Fellowship of the Ring', he was able to lay down the foundation of the story in such a way that it never really dragged at all. The action was fastpaced and the introducing storyline was just incredible.

With 'The Two Towers', my personal favorite in both novel and movie form, Jackson turned the Battle at Helm's Deep into one of the most visually stunning things that I have ever seen in my life. And the amazing work at brining Gollum to life was just breathtaking.

'The Return of the King' was the only movie I had any gripes with, none of which I will mention now. The battles scenes were incredible, the CGI was fantastic, and the finale(s...s...s...) were the perfect way to bring this epic movie undertaking to a close.

I recently read that there may be a forthcoming movie for 'The Hobbit', but without Jackson at the helm. I somehow doubt it will be up to the standard of 'Rings', but I'll see it anyway.

For those of you who like fantasy stories but have been living under a rock, or are to stubborn to check this movie out, at least give it a chance. The only thing you have to lose is time... and a whole hell of a lot of it.

Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime II

When Queensryche announced their plans to return to 'Operation: Mindcimre' the reaction was mixed. Fans were wondering if the band could pull off such a maneuver without one of the primary songwriters of the original, ex guitarist Chris DeGarmo. After a brief tour featuring the entire first 'Mindcrime' and a couple tracks the band were working on, Queensryche once again went into the studio to create rock 'n roll history.

The opening track "Freheit Ouverture" immediately puts to rest the worries of the bands ability to craft a worthy follow up to one of the greatest concept albums of all time. The playing is tight and the music is just as good as anything from it's predecessor. The lead off cut to the story "I'm American" (played as a work in progress on the tour) is a balls to the wall rocker with some of the best vocal work seen from Tate in a long time.

The lyrics, inspired by the current political climate in the United States, are centered around Nikki's revenge and redemption. Many asked/unasked questions are answered in the nearly one hour story (although at times the story may be slightly unbelievable). Musically, this is the album that Queensryche fans have been waiting for. The crunch of the original re-appears, while the experience of these seasoned musicians shines throughout the album.

Reprising her role as Sister Mary, Pamela Moore returns to the story as a ghost of her memory in Nikki's head. One of the most surprising guest roles is Ronnie James Dio as the evil Doctor X.

Although the disc is not as good as the original 'Mindcrime' (what could be?!?), this sequel is not only a worthy addition to the already vastly impressive Queensryche discography, but it's more than worthy of the 'Mindcrime' title.

-YtseRob

LITTLE CHILDREN

Finally got to see this much aniticipated film starring one my favorites, Kate Winslet. I guess in short, Kate played a role I am pretty unfamiliar with seeing her play. The Infidelity part of her character stuck out. The director, Todd Fields, whose last movie a few years ago, IN THE BEDROOM, I felt was great. LITTLE CHILDREN has some similarities, which having seen both I can see how the same director could have made them both. LITTLE CHILDREN really focused a lot on whether the characters were doing the right thing, and in some ways, their infidelity actually may have been. Maybe the most liberal side to this film's plot was the character played by Jackie Earl Haley. Who portays a recently released from prison sex offender. After watching him for awhile it hit me that it was the kid who played Kelly from the BAD NEWS BEARS movies. Now he's 46, but that really caught me offguard. Believe it or not, the story lends you to ultimately feel for the guy, which when you see it, you'll realize why and why it's so strange. Haley ended up receiving a support nominations for the SAG awards announced this week. I suppose he would qualify for this, but his role was not tied to the leads much.

Overall, this was a very well written, well acted film. But it's not one that leaves you with smiles or even much relief. Very "Indie" I suppose in that respect. The resolution isn't crystal at the end, and it's hardly politically correct in many instances. It was based on a novel of the same name I guess, and the fact IN THE BEDROOM in a lot of ways had similar qualities and themes. But I guess my take was after seeing that film, as dark as it was, it still left me with the feeling that I was satisfied with the work the people who made it, put into it. It was one of those movies that has stuck with me over the years as an interesting and somewhat original plot twist. This new film from Todd Fields kind of left me more shocked and with the feeling that I struggled to watch it at times. That can be a good quality of a film, the deepness and impact, most recently in films I caught like THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS and especially ALFA DOG, but this one almost seemed more difficult, atleast thus far a few hours after seeing it. Or maybe a lot of that has to do with my adoration for Kate Winslet and how different she seemed in this movie, which I suppose ultimately is the mark of a good actor. But she LOOKED thinner and a bit different, which for an admirer, it kinda caught me offguard. Maybe it'll end up awarding her at the Globes or Oscars, sadly, maybe a bit makeup for previous roles she played she didn't win (ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND perhaps?).

-Kyle

Rob's Top 10 of 2006

Okay people, 2006 is behind us, and with it comes the daunting task of picking my favorite 10 albums released during the year. There was a lot of great music released in 2006 and it has taken me some time to come up with my list. It has been even harder to put the ten into some particular order. Nevertheless, here is my list:


01 - Dream Theater: Score
This is without a doubt my number one pick for 2006. The album is a live retrospective of the bands 20 years together, recorded at Radio City Music Hall in 2006. Pulling from a catalogue that goes back to the band's 1986 Majesty days, there is something here for all DT fans. Of note is the 2nd set and encore which was performed live on stage with a full orchestra!

02 - Spock's Beard: Spock's Beard
Spock's Beard has got to be one of the hardest working bands in the progressive genre today. And while the band maybe aren't as "prog" as they were with Neal Morse at the helm, Nick D'Virgilio and company have explored the farthest reaches of their amazing artistic abilities on this album. Easily the most diverse disc in the bands entire catalogue.

03 - The Mars Volta: Amputechture
TMV's third studio album is a mix of the best elements of it's two successors. Taking the full out rock of 'Comatorium' and the experimental side of 'Frances', 'Amputechture' is the bands most cohesive and impressive release to date.

04 - Ben Averch: Washington State
Although he may not have a major label contract, Ben Averch has something that a lot of new and emerging major label acts don't have... talent. A multi-instrumentalist, Ben can rock out and drip emotion at the same time. There are times his music is very Rush like, and even more times when his work is very original and fresh.

05 - Frost: Milliontown
Frost is fronted by the incredible Jim Godfrey, and the debut album is the definition of "prog". Long instrumental passages, epic songs, and an array of musicians at the top of their field. Every note of the album is pure magic. Sadly, Godfrey has decided not to carry on the project past this album.

06 - Evanescence: The Open Door
The follow up to 'Fallen' is a bit more mellow than I had expected, but the band are playing great together, and Amy sounds better than she ever has. I must admit I was a bit sceptical about the album without Moody on board, but the band completely blew me out of the water.

07 - "Weird Al" Yankovic: Straight Outta Lynwood
It seems that the world forgets about "Weird Al" in between albums, however I don't think that will be the case this time around. With "White And Nerdy" Al was able to gain his highest charting single and album to date. The album contains some of Al's best parodies to date, and the original material is quite impressive as well.

08 - David Gilmour: On An Island
The new album from Pink Floyd mastermind David Gilmour is unlike anything Floyd have ever released. The tracks are emotional and the guitar playing is incredible. Then again, what else would you expect from one of the greatest guitar players of our time?

09 - Queensryche: Operation: Mindcrime II
Okay, so the plot of the album is a bit far fetched. There is no way Nikki should have ever been released from prison. If you put that fact out of your mind, this is a very fun album, with music that rivals anything the band have ever written. This is the album that should have put the 'ryche back on top.

10 - Tom Petty: Highway Companion
I have always been a sucker for Petty's voice, and here he has created an album that showcases just how great of a singer/songwriter he is. It's another mellow album (I'm noticing a pattern here), but a perfect way to end my list.


A few honorable mentions:
Tool: 10,000 Days
Sammy Hagar: Livin' It Up
Three Days Grace: One X
Muse: Black Holes and Revelations
OSI: Free
Iron Maiden: A Matter of Life and Death
Vanden Plas: Christ O
The Beatles: Love


And there you have it, YtseRob's Top 10 of 2006. Thank you for reading, and I'll see you back here next year with Rush, Dream Theater & Coheed riding very high on the list, I have no doubt in my mind of that.

2006 Band Discoveries

A 55 minutes audio version/podcast can be found HERE for those who don't mind babbling; or have a lot of TIME TO KILL/ARE BORED.

Kaddisfly - I can't get enough of this band's upcoming record SET SAIL THE PRAIRIE. If there is any justice, the band will receive an overwhelming response SET SAIL THE PRAIRIE will be the album that sets up their career. They have just written too good of an album to not receive some reciprocation. A ton of BLOOD, SWEAT, AND TEARS went into composing and recording it.

Pure Reason Revolution - Very impressive and a pleasant breath of fresh air on Modern and Heavy Psychadelic Rock. Not really any other group out there today that uses complex Vocal harmonies like they do. Both editions of THE DARK THIRD flow amazingly well as if you wouldn't want to hear any of the songs without hearing the whole album in the same listening.

Klimt 1918 - DOPOGUERRA is one tremendously flowing atmospheric and melodic Hard Rock album. The layers and dynamics are superb. Their early stuff is not bad either. I am quite excited to see what they come up with next, likely in 2007.

Mew - Couldn't get into the vocal style, but with a 2nd assessment it and the band totally won me over especially when hearing FRENGERS. Their two full-lengths are both really good, but these guys I think may come up with a masterpiece down the road. Too much talent. Love the atmosphere and surreal layers and images including live and the videos they have done are a trip. Catheads in a dress floating down a road playing violins. How the hell did they come up with that?

Bend Sinister - This is totally great. They combine elements of Queen and The Mars Volta into their own brand of Progressive Indie-Rock. "Through the Broken City" their debut is a flawless debut album save for possibly is low production standards. The people unfamiliar with them don't know what they are missing. 2007 a new full-length is expected to come out.

Oceansize - I got won over by this band with their wall-of-sound, psych-metal. Like Mew, they could easily come up with a landmark record soon.

Anathallo - Quite original sounding band. Never really heard a group use horns and rock, in such an organic way. Almost like HS band-rock in a way. Great Vocal harmonies, Xylophone, percusssion. They may not want to, but if enough people heard them, they'd realize how talented this group really is. They recently released '"Anathallogy" which in my case, since I do not own anything from them other than their latest FLOATING~WORLD, is a great deal to get their entire backcatalog. Much of that is more guitar-driven but still great. I'm very curious where they go with their next release.

MuteMath - Poppy and atmospheric. Not a bad song on either the RESET EP or their debut record. They shine the most in concert. The singer crowd surfs playing the keytar and the drummer is tight as hell

Russian Circles - The best instrumental act I've heard since discovering Jazz-Rock a few years ago. These guys to me are very much like how Fates Warning would be if you took away the vocals and keys. Dynamics, muscular riffs and huge crescendos and HOOKS.

The Decemberists - THE CRANE WIFE is one of the most universally mentioned records of 2006. One of the best bands that writes folk songs like fables that include prog elements. "The Island..." is maybe the best Prog song of 2006. Their backcatalog is quite impressive as well. 2005's EP "The Tain"is a great 5-part suite epic. PICARESQUE and HER MAJESTY are two other albums I've enjoyed diving into this year as well.

The Receiving End of Sirens - This band is scary to me. They have something in their music I have learned to tolerate; Post-hardcore screaming. But their clean vocals are so good, especially when used as 2 and 3 part harmonies like Queen. And they write some of the most over-the-top melodies it's insane to believe they came on their debut record. Is their a "Prog-Pop-Emo" Genre?..these guys will scare you like Coheed or Ours if you're not careful. The day they end the screaming, is the day they become a staple group for me. The melodies are just too good to ignore.

Opus Dai - Great, fresh debut album. Crescendos are crazy at times, and the melodies stay in your head. They are even more crzay live.

3 - Great groovey and catchy Prog Metal band. They write some soaring melodies. The remastered WAKE PIG sounds even better than the original release.

Kiss Kiss - Truly going to be discovered in 2007 when their 1st full-length comes out (it's already on Itunes and I have it and LOVE IT). Progressive Indie-Rock's answer to King Crimson, Kansas, and Frank Zappa? Technical yet accessible?..I'm really loving this band right now, maybe than any new(er) band to me.

House Of Fools - Full length out in March, their S/T EP came out in October which had no bad songs on it. "Live And Learn" maybe being the best, but wait til more people hear the Queen-esque "Until It's Over." Some compare them to Keane or 10cc, but I just dig their pop-melodies and the crescendos.

Margot & the Nuclear So and So's - Debut record is infectious as hell. A large ensemsble group with a horn, violin, 2 drummers, male and female vocal harmonies. They are quite diverse and have a lot of variety to their style. Folky at times, technical at other times, poppy as well. I really am loving this band right now. 2007 a new record is expected out. Very excited for that.

Under The Influence Of Giants - Retro that is updated. About half of their debut album is really catchy and strong. The Bee Gees are echoed perfectly in "Mama's Room."

Men, Women And Children - Another updated retro sounding band that has 3 songs on their s/t debut album that are really great. "Dance In My Blood" "Lightning Strikes Twice In New York" and "Celebracion!" Similar to Earth, Wind And Fire but more guitar emphasis.

Portugal the Man - The 1st half of their debut album is very influenced by The Mars Volta, but without the experimenting. The 2nd half is just plain good. The Mars Volta fans not satisfied with AMPUTECHTURE may want to seek out this band's record. Opening for dredg in Santa Cruz didn't hurt them either.

Janus - Chicago based Progressive Indie Rock group. Their new stuff on their myspace is great, their debut record "Armor" from 2004 is inconsistent. The song "Severen" though is one killer song with some heavy riffs. The vocals are higher, but may remind people of as much of Rage Against the Machine as much as Coheed and Cambria. I'm looking to hearing their next full length hopefully in 2007 sometime.

Archive - Psychadelic, Atmospheric, and yet at times song-oriented and retro. I have been mesmerized by this band of late. Really blending a bunch of styles into one. Some Porcupine Tree fans could fall in love with them.

Kaura - Their 2005 S/T debut EP shows promise, but the myspace stuff is up to another level. Ethnic layers and heavy riffs. May remind people of Tool or dredg. 2006 was getting their name out there, 2007 could be getting their album in regular rotation.

Doves - Psych and Pop. Not too excessive, almost too subtle at times. They have some great songs that got me going back to them, especially their album "Lost Souls."

Aviatic - Great poppy hardrock. They should be on every adult contemporary station on the globe, and at times their song "Goodbye Beautiful Day." About half of their album "Arrival" I tend to go back to regularly.

The Appleseed Cast - I really like this band, yet I haven't become addicted quite yet. They are quite consistent, writing songs with a lot of textures and layers, yet never too longwinded. A band I 1st got into this year, but may get more into next year.

Vedera - Opening for dredg, MuteMath, and then Mae (and outclassing them a ton imo), really speaks volumes for this group. Their 2005 album "Weight of an Empty Room" has some nice moments. Kristin May's soaring vocals standout. And the new music they have played recently also raised my interest level in this band.

Brazil - The 2004 record "A Hostage and the Meaning of Life" has some incredible moments on it. The 2nd half of it especially. In a sense, they do what The Receiving End of Sirens do without the screaming on that album. Their newest "The Philosophy of Velocity" wasn't quite as consistent, but had moments as well. However, the stuff I heard were highly compressed mp3's and I haven't gotten around to hearing a better recording of it.

Between Two Skies - The local MN band with I foresee possibly the most potential. I 1st found out about them from a local dredg fan I met via myspace. These guys are spacey, yet technical enough to appreciate their skillfull musicianship. Upon a later exposure to them live, they really seemed to have honed their sound. Adding vocals, and maybe a bit more heaviness. Their singer reminds me of Maynard from Tool or Eddie Vedder to extent, but at the same time he's a bit more accessible. Definitely a band I look back on 2006 as a good discovery.

Bought their album/Listened To/Saw in Concert/Sampled (to varying degrees)
Aina, Aireline, Ambulette, Amity, Amplifier, The Autumns, Building Karma, Calexico,
Carpark North, Caspian, A Chinese Firedrill, Citay, Cog, The Cooper Temple Clause, Facing NewYork, Jason Falkner, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Matthew Good, Gruvis Malt, James Hall, Head Automatica, David Hess, In Reverent Fear, Tyler Jakes, Jetliner, Katatonia, L.E.O., Roger Joseph Manning Jr, Adam Marsland, Matisyahu, Midnite Movies, Minus the Bear, The Mocha Nights, The Modern Skirts, Mogwai, Moon Safari, The New Pornographers, Joanna Newsom, Of the Hour, Oh My God, Ohm, Okkervil River, One Republic, One Thousand Pictures, Julia Othmer, People In Planes, Pineapple Thief, Polyphonic Spree, Protest the Hero, Red Sparrowes, Revere, Sam Roberts, Rogue Wave, RPWL, Sans Seraph, Screaming Headless Torso, Shiny Toy Guns, Sigur Ros, Sarah Slean, Solarcade, Super Furry Animals, The Sword, Talk Talk, Tortoise, Tortured Soul, TV On the Radio, The Underwater, Vast, Vocoder, Waiger, Woodwork, Wolfmother, World Leader Pretend, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Young Love

Local
Fitzgerald
Red Fox/Grey Fox
Absent I
Far From Falling
Living Spoon
A Violet Desire
Broken Noise
Stellar Vector
The Hollow Point
Cue the Doves
Down and Above
Stook

FANBOYS: New Star Wars Parody

Free Enterprise was a cult favorite of many William Shatner and Scifi junkies like myself. A funny and somewhat biographical film about two average guys who were very into Science Fiction and movies. The film was well written, funny, and maybe best of all, it didn't take itself too seriously. It also came out before people knew who Eric McCormack was and WILL AND GRACE had aired.

A sequel to FREE ENTERPRISE had been talked about and posted on imdb many years ago, and it looked like it may finally happen about 18 months ago with the end nearing for WILL AND GRACE and some other factors. However, it never did, or has not yet. And even it's sad to say just recently, the listing on imdb was removed. Hopefully it will comeback at some point.

So William Shatner does not have that coming up, but for those looking for something vaguely similar, he appears in the upcoming 2007 comedy "Fanboys."

IMDB listing

Plot Outline: Four guys from the Midwest drive across the country to honor the wish of their dying friend: to watch "Star Wars: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace" at George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch before the movie's worldwide release

Quicktime Trailer

Youtube

Along with VERONICA MARS star Kristen Bell , STAR WARS, and some other notable hollywood cameos (Carrie Fisher, Christopher McDonald) this new film could be one to remember looking for in 2007. From the trailer it seems like it could be using the mocking humor that exists in the rivalry between Star Wars and Star Trek fans. And just the plain geek-mocking that can be done really well in the right context with Science Fiction fans.

FE 2 may or may not happen, but FANBOYS atleast potentially, could makeup for those down about no plans of a FREE ENTERPRISE sequel.

-Kyle

Kiss Kiss (no not the makeup wearing "Kiss" we all know)

1. Janet
2. Iris and Eyes
3. Sixth Sense
4. A Conch to the Ear
5. Machines6. Satellite
7. Dress Up
8. The Friend Who Bends His Bolts At
9. The Cats In Your House
10. To the Most Beautiful Birth Ever
11. Vagabond
12. Stay the Day

Homepage (currently defaulting to myspace)
Myspace

This anticipated semi-Full Length is set to come out in early February, but was made available on Itunes finally this week. I gotta tell you, if you want to hear a band who has grown and matured, somewhat like dredg or Kaddisfly recently, Kiss Kiss may be one of those bands. This new release is very polished. Not a bad moment on it. The only thing new listenors may be a bit weary of is the small hints of screaming, but for some reason it really doesn't matter in Kiss Kiss's music. In fact in some ways it adds something. "Machines" is a potential single..the same could be said about the opening track "Jane." The last 2 tracks, "Vagabond" and "Stay the Day" have some incredible moments..the use of strings works perfectly. The group stands out with their use of violin, vocal harmonies, percussion, dynamics, and time changes worthy of Frank Zappa. Lyircally from what I heard in a recent radio appearance, the title "Reality Vs. the Optimist" comes from the idea that partly the band wants the whole Rockstar fantasy to come true, and that part is fighting the "Reality" that it's no gurantee, especially for an Indie-Rock band like Kiss Kiss. One whose music is eclectic and progressive, but doesn't seem to be totally unaccessible. With many newer rock bands emphasizing musicianship, hopefully the Optimist will win out.

I don't think I will end up being wrong when I anticipated Kiss Kiss as being one of the breakthrough bands of 2007. Their new record already seems to be supporting that.

2005's S/T EP


1. Says My Doctor
2. Thoughts You Spoke
3. College Film
4. Drifts and Pulls
5. Killing the Son

This 1st release from NY-based Kiss Kiss is really worth checking out as well. If you combine the two releases, you have what adds up to about one average length album. Although the new record seems longer than the 32 minutes it clocks in at.

Roger Waters - In the Flesh Live (DVD)

With nothing new forthcoming from the Pink Floyd camp, I've been on a bit of a side project binge lately. I chanced upon Roger Waters' 'In the Flesh' DVD today at best buy and snatched it up. I am happy to say that I was very pleasently surprised with the content.

The concert is made up of mostly Pink Floyd material, and mostly the hits at that (with a few nice nuggets tossed in for some fun flavoring... "Southampton Dock" in particular is incredible!), andthe musicians that adorn the stage alongside Roger are extremely talented.

As the band play through such classics as the overplayed "Another Brick In the Wall, Pt. 2", a fiery rendition of "Comfortably Numb", "Welcome to the Machine", and a version of "Dogs" that could actually rival any PF boots I have heard, I was held enthralled by the sheer talent of the act.

There are also some Waters solo tunes in the set, like "Perfect Sense", "Amused To Death" and a personal favorite of mine "The Bravery of Being Out of Range". From start to finish the show is top notch.

Also of note are the extras which include a very cool Behind the Scenes documentary, some photgraphs, and lyrics, and band biographies as well.

The production on the DVD is fantastic, with a crisp clear sound, and a stunning picture, this is one you have to see to believe. If you are in need of a Pink Floyd fix, and sick of holding your breath for anything new, check out this disc (that is, if you haven't already).


--YtseRob2112