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CD Reviews

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All Reviews by Chris unless noted

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New Reviews

Line Of Departure - Ixora EP(Pee Records/Shock)

Ixora is the latest ep from Line Of Departure. The title track Ixora is a cracker with good melodies, musicianship, and honest lyrics and is well crafted it feels like a modern rock song with a dash of melodic hardcore. The vocals are very good here also and the screaming is not used with out reason, one of the stands out for me. Conscience and Reality is another great track which really upbeat and feels like a good song with good vocals, lyrics that are meaty, and shows off the good song writing skills. It really is a mix of modern rock and melodic hardcore with a dash of punk pop for beat. Hope Springs is a bloody good song like the rest of them. It was really enjoyable with good musicianship, upbeat drumming, good harmonies and melodies and good singing. It is a well-crafted song that shows off the good song writing from the band. No Competition is good song with good vocals, catchy melodies and harmonies that will get up and singing in no time. It reminded me off a Bodyjar song, It such a catchy song. In a Naught is the last song on ep and is a good song with dark melodic melodies and has upbeat drumming, good lyrics and I really liked how the song started off with that really good guitar playing. It shows the good song writing from the band. These guys have a winner of an ep and it shows. They know what they are doing and are bound to be a huge hit with kids. Give this a shot you won't disappoint with this ep from this good Aussie band.

Bound Stems - The Logic Of Building The Body Plan EP (FlameShovel Records)

The Bound Stems The Logic Of Building The Body Plan EP is a pretty enjoyable listen as it something different. Crimes and Follies is the first track off the EP and feel like a rock song with a dash of electronic beats. It is a well-written song with nice dark melodies and good harmonies and has good uses of female vocals as backing vocals and is some how catchy and moving. It is a pretty good song to start off the EP. Totipotent is a nice song with pop melodies and an electronica feel but occasionally has a bit of rock driving edge and is a really enjoyable song with good lyrics and shows the good song writing skills this band has. Wake Up, Ma and Pa Are Gone is another pearler of a track as it starts of with beautiful melodies then rock comes in with driving energy and moves this song into a catchy melodic song with good melodies and good lyrics with good vocals and the female vocals is a nice touch. Up All Night [Book Of Lemon Swamp Re-Fused] is a great track with wonderful vocals especially the female vocals and is some how catchy with that funky drumming and melodies make it feel like a indie rock and the good use of the sound clips basically it a short and sweet song which is doesn't disappoint. My Kingdom For A Trundle Bed is a great track that has great lyrics, beautiful melodies at the start and thru out the song, great male and female vocals, which work well together and make it really harmonies. It just a catchy pop song with a rock edge and no time you will be singing too or just tapping your feet and nodding your head in satisfaction. Risking Life & Limb for the Coupon is probably one of my favourite songs on the album as first it starts off like a rock song but then the beautiful melodies, harmonies come out and it really shines thru out and feels like a indie rock song with a rock feel to it. It also shows how good songwriters Bound Stems truly are. I really dug that song have been playing it on repeat heaps. Up All Nigh [Epilogue] is a remix of the 4 track and it is pretty good with good uses of sound clips and female vocals make it good. Overall this is a good interesting EP from Bound Stems, as I really liked it. It has enough going for it with each song being different and unique which gives the listener something unique with each song. This should give the band some more good publicity. Even tho I am not the best reviewer in town. I highly recommend this and you should check it out, a winner by me.

Michelle Albano - Second Guesses (Self Released)

Michelle Albano is a fantastic singer songwriter and well in my view she is better than some of the artists, which are on major labels. Bye Baby starts off the album with a funky, catchy well written slice of R&B/Pop/Soul and Rock. A song, that really has soul all the way throughout the song. I could easily see this be played on radio. Enough is a nice beautiful song that has wonderful harmonies, beautiful melodies and good lyrics and great lyrics. Her vocals in this song remind me of Sera, A really great song that hits the mark. Right On Time is one of the highlights off the album for me because it is a really beautiful song that really shows how good Michelle Albano is a s songwriter who blows a lot of competition out of the water. It is a song that has beautiful melodies, beautiful lyrics and those wonderful vocals by Michelle. It is just such a lovely song. The Piano is beautifully used here. Wrong is a funky up beat track that is really catchy that will really get you singing in no time. It is really a R&B song full of soul, heart and melody with great lyrics, melodies and those soulful vocals of Michelle. Your Imagine is another great song that so catchy with upbeat melodies, catchy lyrics and those great vocals from Michelle. You will be moving around in no time. Lullaby Of The Passing Cars is another highlight for me with its beautiful melodies and vocals and wonderful harmonies. It is a song with so much soul and heart. It is just another beautiful song by Michelle. Reason is another highlight with its upbeat soul and is excellent musicianship and good melodies that really feels like a good old R&B rock song with a slice of pop to the mix. Don’t Try To Tell Me is a great song with heart and soul and Michelle and her piano really shine thru out the song. It is a nice laid back song that is really moving and Michelle vocals really shine here and I do really mean it. It really feels like a pop rock song that is so rewarding every time you listen to it. Both these songs show how great a songwriter Michelle Albano is. The Hour is a soulful song with so much melody and harmonies. It is a nice song that is so enjoyable listen to with its melody and those beautiful vocals by Michelle and her fantastic piano playing and that great song writing by her also. In Other Words reminds me of an Amanda Rogers song with its rock feel and its pop edge with its upbeat melodies and that edgy driving feel and the soul that only Michelle Albano can bring and is a truly great song. I like how the piano is used in the song and it has been used well. I also thought this was a highlight for me also. The last song Painting By Numbers is just a nice beautiful slow song that is truly is great and finishes off the album nicely with fantastic vocals, beautiful melodies and of course fantastic piano playing by Michelle Albano, it just a wonderfully lovely song that is truly fantastic. Her lyrics thru out the album are fantastic and enjoyable listen to and have something to say and really add to her music to make fantastic. It is nice to hear a real artist playing real music for change. I mean a singer songwriter who writes and plays fantastic music and well some one who writes all her own songs because Michelle Albano is that. I truly think this is a fantastic wonderful album with so much soul, heart and melody and will truly get Michelle Albano noticed. You must check this album out as you will not be disappointed and if you like what you hear go and tell your friends and spread the word as this talented lady is going to be going places and will be around for a long time.

Jupiter Sunrise - Under A Killer Blue Sky (Undecided Records)

I am a huge fan of power pop rock music and well folks Jupiter Sunrise are one of those bands. This is a really good album with some excellent tunes. Songs like Kaye are catchy well written pieces of power pop heaven with good melodies and well-written lyrics and with good harmonies. Cherry Wine is beautiful song that starts off slow and then when you least expect it the energy comes out and it is very moving that wins you over with its laid back beautiful melodies. Casey is a good song that would easily be found on radio with poppy melodies and driving catchiness and is so hard not resist with its charms and reminds me of some of the stuff that reunion show play. It also very groovy with good lyrics, well-written melodies and harmonies that is great. One of my personal favourite songs on the album Suddenly as it is really well written song that is a really good pop rock song that has good lyrics, good song structure and is one of the highlights off the album for me. It also shows how good songwriters they are. Another song which is also won me over is Super X-Ray Vision as it is really a damm good song that is so damm hard not resist with it's poppy beat and it's rocking edge with it's catchy lyrics and well you will be singing away in no time. September Girl is a song with good harmonies, lyrics that will not be forgotten easily and it is really a good pop rock song that is really enjoyable to listen. Steal Me is a great laid back pop rock song that reminds me off the good old days when radio had good songs on and it is also shows the bands good song writing in action. It is also another highlight for me. Also Heaven and Endless is another great song that has good lyrics, good vocals and good melodies and finishes off the album nicely. Jupiter Sunrise does know how to write good songs with good harmonies, melodies and songs that are just enjoyable. Plus adding Amanda Rogers to your band adds to the greatness that is Jupiter Sunrise. Under A Killer Blue Sky is worth checking out.

Minus The Bear - Menos El Oso (Suicide Squeeze Records)

This review is going to be probably terrible why because this is a really good CD and well their style of music going to be hard to describe. So don't expect review of the week. The first thing you notice when you listen to the album is to me is that is really original and is hard to place where the influences come from. Songs like Pachuca Sunrise show how good songwriters they are and also how damm catchy their music can be Hooray is another one of those songs that have good lyrics and feels more like a rock song. Fulfill The Dream feels like a rock song with a power pop edge with the keyboards adding a nice touch to the song. El Torrente is probably the most unusual song on the album as most of the songs are upbeat and fast. This song has a slow beat that brings out the lyrics and the vocals and with the occasional rock riff is an excellent touch. Hooray is another good example of good song as it feels like at the start you are playing a video game but then turns into a song that has good melodies, a good beat, good song writing and good lyrics. Overall the album is good because each song is unique it's own way and it doesn't feel like you have heard it before. The lyrics are good because they are original and offer something different to the listener. I think this album is very original and very cool. I say check this baby out.

Mark Airlie - Peril Not A Pearl (Powertool Records)

Peril Not A Pearl is a good EP for Mark Arlie as it is a really good interesting ride of an EP. It's starts off with a catchy poppy instrumental number expecting you are getting this kinda music but when the second song Serenade you are throw in into dark melodies mixed with rhythmics drums that remind me a bit of some of the Straightjacket Fits songs. Ursula is a song which dark, heavy and rocks with its power and beast of its vocals. Targuin The Port Meister is another great song, which is really, catchy, and poppy with driving beat and catchy vocals and the backing vocals is a good touch. Cragdad is a really good song with the violin and the piano an excellent touch and is moving to say the least. It is a beautiful haunting song with its slow dark melodies and It is probably the slowest song on the EP but it still manages to win you over like the entire songs do. Grappling Iron is good that reminded me off the whole straightjacket fits, flying nun scene and is probably the most accessible song on the EP and is a song with poppy melodies, good guitar playing and good vocals. The one thing about this EP is that lyrics are well written and have something to say and that is a good thing. This is an EP worth checking out if you after something different with a bit of meat to it. I for one can't wait to see what he will bring out next. Go to http://www.powertoolrecords.co.nz to purchase this good ep.

Cooper - The Fragile Fall - (Rockpie Records)

Copper The Fragile Fall is a bloody good album. It is alternative rock album but unlike most is consistent the whole way thru. Each song flows nicely to the next. By Now is a brilliant song to start the album off as it is a pure rock song with good harmonies, melodies which just make what a rock song is. I really took a shine to the song as I have cranked up loud a lot the way it should be heard. One of the highlights of the album for me Inside And Out is another beauty. Good groovy dark melodic rock song that is just heavy and rocks inside and out. It is also another song, which I took a shine too. Turn is a good rock song which is easy on the ears and which could be easily found on the radio. It has good harmonies, good melodies and good song structures and is so a modern rock song. Need is another great rock song which well just rocks as it is funky catchy and has good melodies and is very groovy and catchy. Where We Started is another brilliant song. It is so good as it just feels like a great rock song with good harmonies, good song structure and well written. I just really took a shine to this song. Red Night is another real rock song, which has a pop edge to it as it is a rock song with a driving edge that will get you singing in no time with catchy lyrics and catchy melodies. Tomorrow feels like a rock song with a punk edge with it driving beats and harmonies and melodies and just makes you want to get up and jump around the room. Lyrics, which will make you, sing. Tear Inside is another rock song with a pop edge, which I could easily find playing on radio with good song structure, good harmonies and good melodies and lyrics which are catchy as. Conversation is another good example of how good these guys write good songs. It feels like a good rock song with its driving beat and catchy lyrics and melodies. Got It All Wrong really finishes off the album well with a rock song that is catchy and melodic and really feels like a good song should do. I really took a shine to this album, as I haven't heard many good hard modern rock albums in a long time. Copper have hit the mark with this album and is worth checking out. I can't wait to hear what they put out next.

Chin Up - Chin Up (FlameShovel/Record Label)

When you first look of the cover of Chin Up Self Titled EP you think you are getting a nice indie rock CD but then you read the titles of the tracks and it's not so nice and cute. Chin Up is my words play good honest indie rock music. Collide The Tide is a song that is a good indie rock song with good lyrics, good song structure and the keyboards a nice touch and some how feels catchy. Fuck You, Elton John is a nice laid-back song that is an indie rock song that picks up and some how has a pop feel to it and wins over with it. For All The Tanning Salons In Texas is quite a catchy song with the fast and upbeat drumming with the good guitar playing and the melodies and catchy vocals and the keyboard is an excellent touch to the song and is one of favourites on the EP. The Soccer Mom Gets Her Fix is more of a dark song, which the keyboards enforce and is so how mysterious with the vocals, and it's harmonies and dark melodies and moves at the same time. I also liked I'm Not Asking For A Tennis Bracelet as it some how catchy and has a pop edge with it good song structure and the keyboard being a nice touch and some how the vocals and lyrics are catchy and also shows the band good song writing skills. Pillage The Village reminds me of a Sunday Best song as it some how moving and the vocals are really noticeable here and the piano is an excellent touch and is really catchy and has that driving beat and the lyrics are good too. I don't normally like remixes but the remix of We Should Have Never Lived Like Were Skyscrapers is actually pretty good. Stephen SnyDacker has made it pretty funky and enjoyable to listen to. Falconz And Vulcanz is a pretty enjoyable song with good use of acoustic guitar and is a good song that is moving and some how catchy and the band song writing really shines here. The Architect Has A Gun remix did not sit well me sadly to say as I really enjoyed the last remix on the CD. It just felt really slow and wasn't really enjoyable. I think this is pretty interesting and enjoyable EP by Chin Up. I say check this out, as you will probably enjoy this. I know I did. This also happens to be a split release between FlameShovel Records & Record Label

The Open Season - Chase (Pee Records/Shock Records)

The Open Season is an Australian Post Hardcore/Melodic Hardcore band. The Chase happens to be their latest release and it is pretty good. It is extremely catchy as the first song Never Forget shows how good the band is in terms of song structure, song writing and making a song that is catchy and what a good post hardcore song should be. The Empty Promise feels like a melodic hardcore track mixed with a dash of punk pop with catchy lyrics, good song structure and vocals, which are good. Hot Pink is another stand out for me that has good vocals, good lyrics and feels like a melodic rock song and less as a melodic hardcore song and reminds me of one of the songs that Beloved play and is one of the highlights of me. The vocals remind me a lot of the singer from Kiss Chasy. It also shows their song writing skills are good throughout the song. Again is another great song that is also more melodic rock with a dash of post hardcore and is a pretty catchy song that gets you singing a long. It is a good song that rivals what overseas bands do. Page To Page Part 1 is a good honest Post Hardcore track that is damm good that has everything in the right place. Good vocals, good song structure and good melodies and also shows that these guys know how to a write a good post hardcore/melodic hardcore track which rivals the American counterparts. I like it how it flows onto to Part 2 which is good and is more and less the same as Part 1 but that is good a thing. I think these guys have produced a good EP, which rivals what the American counterparts do. So instead of an America band why not give The Open Season Chase EP a chance. You won't be disappointed.

Joe Rohan - These Days (Off The Map Music)

Joe Rohan is a country/blues artist and he is really good. I don't really listen to a lot of country and blues music. So this really took me by surprise His album These Days is a good blend of country and blues music. The first track Desert Love is a good slice of country music. It is really feel good, catchy, beautiful harmonies and good musicianship with good lyrics, well written and good melodies to top it off and what a country song should be. His singing really shines in this song. Lovestruck Romeo is a laid-back feel good song with good melodies, and good guitar playing with a good guitar solo and all. It feels like a good blues song should. These Days is a really good song so catchy, harmonies with good melodies and just enjoyable listen to and Joe Rohan song writing really shines here. Blown Away is a great song that I could find on radio with beautiful lyrics, it laid back melodies and Joe vocals really shine thru out the song and so does his song writing skills also. I really enjoyed this song. James Dean reminded of the song Virginia by Train with acoustic guitars, good vocals and it's feel good nature of the song. It is really a good laid back blues song that is some how really moving. So Many Eyes is another great country song that is really catchy and gets you tapping. It is good because he really shines here with song writing, good musicianship and the good guitar playing. The keyboard is an excellent touch to the song. In no time you will be singing a long just like I did. Angeline is another great song that really shines with Joe vocals and it's laid-back country/blues feel. You know he is putting his and heart soul thru out this song. He knows how to write a good song and this is one of those songs that really show it. The Harmonica has been really used well here. Cold Winter Day is a blues song and it is good. The harmonica is used well here, as this is a funky laid back song that will have you nodding your head in no time. As always Joe vocals are good. Pair Of Horses is a nice song that really works well. It reminds me off that Willy Nelson song with Ray Charles with it slow moving country feel good sensibilities. Joe sings with all his heart in this song and really shows. Another highlight off the album for me, He is a good singer and he really shines here. So beautiful and heartfelt and I really liked it. Ring Of Fire is a Johnny Cash song and Joe covers it here and is really damm catchy and got me tapping in my seat as I listen to. It has really good musicianship and really shines thru out. Joe does the cover justice. Je sings it really well. The Moon is the last song on the album is a nice slow moving country song with just Joe and his guitar and Harmonica, which really shines here. I really thought this was a great album and I not listening to a lot of country music it made an impression with me. I hope some one recognises what a good talent Joe Rohan is and snap him up. If you like country music then you should check this out. Highly recommend by me.

On Tracy Lane - The OTL EP (Self Released)

On Tracy Lane play rock with a power pop edge. This 4 track EP is excellent start for the band. The productions value of this EP is much better than the songs that were on the website which included Back To Maybe and House Of Mimes. . Back To Maybe shows that Darryn Yates can write a catchy but rocking track that doesn't fail to disappoint. House Of Mimes is a rock song that if played in a stadium by the band will get everybody up and singing. Walk Like DeNiro is a solid catchy piece of rock anthem heaven. The songs are just not your average songs, which offer more as they are written well with lyrics which are not your typical average clique rock lyrics about girls and the like. Sure they do write about girls and the like but they are not written like most other bands write them. I was really impressed by this EP and have been playing it heaps. This EP should help get the band noticed if they haven't been already. I am expecting big things from the band. Do your self a favour check these guys out before they become huge.

Miggs - Insomnia (33rd Street Records/Bayside Entertainment Distrubution)

Insomnia is the album that reminds me of my teenage years going to a mate's places for drinks, listening to rock bands and having fun. It is a modern rock album that doesn't disappoint. Unlike some other bands where each song sounds alike, the songs don't on this album. Each song has enough diversity, which grabs you to keep listening. Songs like Be, Perfect and I know You Are are songs that are written by a band who knows how to write good rock songs. The piano is a nice touch to the song Rest that is a very good modern rock ballad track. The song writing is excellent and doesn't have this clique about it. You know what I mean. The vocals are very good. Don Miggs is a very good rock singer whose vocals are perfectly matched with the music. I really enjoyed this album and recommend it highly. An album by a band who knows how make a good rock album and is worth your time.

The Silent Type - Of Writing/Of Violence (Limeklin Records)

This is a band who I really took a shine to as I had never had heard of them until a few weeks ago. The Silent Type writes music that's worth knowing about. It starts off with Kneel, which can be really only described as anthem of an indie rock track in my words. Well written, and beautiful to the ears with violin a nice touch to the song and the backing vocals add to the song. Ink And Blood is a catchy song with out even knowing it. It had me quietly tapping away, It a song that has been well written and really has well written lyrics that say something. Soon Enough is another good example of the good song writing. It is another solid indie rock, which has good honest lyrics and good musicianship but is not as heavy going compared to the last two. Vacant Hotel Lobby sounds more like a laidback folk song unlike a indie rock song and has nice laidback vocals, nice lyrics and you can tell it was well crafted from a musician who knows what he is doing. Some Curious And Beautiful Maps is a good honest beautiful indie rock with touching lyrics and brilliant vocals and the backing vocals are beautiful touch. The violin is a good touch to the song. Oh John happens to be one of my favourite songs on the album. It is a good that is so moving, driving and some how laidback in a way. The vocals of Nathan Altice really stand out in this song. The backing vocals of Maura Davis really shine thru out the whole song and the Banjo is an excellent touch to the song. I love that song. The Gift also won me over with its indie rock sensibilities. I can't think of it any other way. It happens to a song in amongst all the indie rock sensibilities it happens to be funky which Banjo contributes to. It is very well written, good honest lyrics and powerful to say the least. Ok the song the Of Writing/Of Violence has to be the biggest surprise in the album for me. It sound how grab me with just Nathan and his guitar and those lyrics, which really made the song. I also felt the song was really catchy and that had me humming when I wasn't listening to the album. The last Zepplin is like the first song an Anthem that really finishes of what is a brilliant beautiful album. Good lyrics, good musicianship and a well-written song that screams indie rock anthem. If you like really good music then go buy this album you won't be disappointed. I think it is excellent effort for The Silent Type and should give the band some huge buzz.

Sherwood - Sing,But Keep Going (Sidecho Records)

I first heard Sherwood early last year on PureVolume and thought their stuff was good indie rock poppy stuff and contacted the band. Little did I know that they would get signed few months later. They write and play some of the best indie rock pop songs around. There is a beach boys harmony influence in the vocals with a number of their songs. The song "What Lucy Found Their" is where it is most evident. Travelling Alone is a song of good song writing and good lyrics and all round good musicianship. The song is a feel good catchy poppy rock number that gives good vibe when listening to it. Lake Tahoe is a perfect example of pure pop music. With it's summery lyrics and the keyboard used in the right place. After a few listens I was humming and singing away. They know how write songs which can be stuck in your head for days. I really like this album and I can't recommend it highly enough

The Pale Pacific - Urgency (Sidecho Records)

The first thing that comes to mind when listening to this is Death Cab For A Cutie. But for me there is a little bit of them that shines thru. For starters the songs are more darker and more edger and not as slow. Also the lyrics have something to say instead of the usual way lyrics are written. The first song In The Sun Part 2 is a short upbeat little song, which grabs you tapping your feet with it's drum beat and brings you into Sucker Punch which is a song which really is a great song which I feel is some how beautiful with slow but driving beat and lyrics which bring out the band and the vocals which shine thru out the song. It also feels like a good honest written song that you know the band has taken the time to written. Tied To A Million Things is a excellent song which is really indie rock with its driving beat, honest lyrics and it's good vocals and good musicianship. It is a song, which I have been playing on repeat. Identity Theft is a good song poppy rock song that wins you over with its catchiness and well-written lyrics and gets you humming in no time. Fortune Folds is probably my favourite song on the whole album and it really won me over, It is really a well written song that great vocals, good honest well written lyrics and beautiful music that really brings out the talent in the band and it really shows. The keyboard is an excellent touch to the song. I have been playing this song on repeat. Your Parents' House is another great song, which is poppy, funky, catchy and beautifully written with lyrics that really say something, and is oh so indie rock. It also feels like a song that has been well put together and well though out. Written Down is a dark slab of indie rock that some how feels depressing with its lyrics but all the same it moves with slow rocking beat and want's the beast to come out. The Strangest Second Chance is another slow moving slice of indie rock but is some how moving with its honest lyrics and it's good vocals and good musicianship and slow drumming pace. If Only She Leave Town is another catchy, funky, poppy song with a slice of rock that makes it really move along. The keyboard is excellent touch and the lyrics work well with the song that make it the entire better. Back To You is a nice laidback moving song which also brings out the band to craft a really good indie rock song that will get you singing in no time and will make you put on repeat. Fall To Place really is a good song to finish off the album well written, with good lyrics and is a good slow song that some how moves you. I think the band has put a lot of time and effort to the album and it shows. You know the band really cares about what they have written as there is some really good song on here. Urgency is worth a listen as they could well be the next big thing and it doesn't surprise me. The Pale Pacific has a winner off album here and so does their record label.

Jessica Paige - Back Of Our Minds (Self Released)

Jessica Paige is a Melbourne singer-songwriter who should be on radio and should be heard. Back of Our Minds is probably one of the best EP's released in the last two years. The songs have meaning and soul. The first song, Under My Skin, is a pop/rock track that is beautifully written and brings you in with Jessica's powerful vocals and its driving beat and ballad feel.

You can tell with the song No Guarantees that there is a jazzy feel with the music, unlike the first song. Back Of Our Minds is a beautifully written song with just Jessica and her guitar, which really brings out Jessica's vocals.

Hate's A Baby is another great song like the first one, but is darker and more powerful, less poppy and more rock. Jessica's vocals really shine and the track really grabs you with its anthem feel.

It's Crazy Baby is a song I could really hear on radio because it's really well written with soulful vocals and catchy guitar playing and so damn funky!!

Dirty Secrets is an excellent track that has everything a good song should have - good vocals, it's well written with good musicianship and the piano is a nice touch to the song. The song is really pure pop-rock Heaven and really is a beautiful honest song, which is really music to the ears.

Jessica Paige is someone the industry needs right now and needs to be heard. A real singer-songwriter who actually writes lyrics and songs that have meaning. Go and buy her EP as you will not be disappointed!

Lana Phillips - Love Lana (Jam Records)

People I am not really a huge fan of mainstream pop music of today but in some cases only if the singer is good and really impresses me. Lana Phillips fits that case of a really good singer. Her single Love Lava features the tracks Safe & Sound. Safe & Sound is her tribute to the troops in Iraq and this is the song where she really shines. She sings with so much harmony and life. She doesn't fall out of place with the music. Love Letter is another song where she sings fantastically. The song is a love song and she sings it great. She sings with so much energy and power, which brings the music to a whole new level. I have no hesitant in recommend Lana Phillips, as she is a really good mainstream pop singer. I really like Lana Phillips as she is a really good singer and I don't listen to much mainstream pop music. Recommended.

Brooke Annibale - Memories In Melody (Self Released)

When I first put this into my discman. I was blown away and was like wow.

Brooke Annibale is only 17 and has released an album which puts a lot of artists to shame.

She plays accoustic pop rock music which is excellent.

The songs have been well written by Brooke and there is passion,honesty in her music.

There is so much passion and life in her songs. She writes music that sounds fresh and exciting to listen to.

I can't stop recommend this highly enough as this has be one of this years best albums.

The Sinking Citizenship - Broadcasting Germs (UXB Records)

This is one beast of an album. It is one fresh sounding album and I mean fresh.

From the moment you stick it in you are in for a ride

of brutal slabs of melody mixed and twisted in many ways.

The music just hits you at lightning speed.

I don't know how to describe their music than say it is good.

Defently check out this album as it so worth a listen

Broken Romeo - Temptation (Self Released)

I like this album. It's one really good honest melodic rock album

It just does not dissapoint.From the moment you stick the cd in.

You get 13 tracks of good honest catchy rocking tracks.

I have been singing some of the songs for days.

In a time of crappy pop music it's good to see one band bring back the rock.

If you like rock you then you have to check out Broken Romeo - Temptation

Todd Martin - How It Is That I'm Alone (Self Released)

This is not a bad album. It's just Todd Martin with his Guitar and his voice.

His songs are heartfelt and have been writen very well. He is a good songwriter.

You know when you first stick the cd in that the songs come from the heart.

It wouldn't suprise me if get's picked up soon as his music is good.

If you like singer songwriters then Todd Martin is for you.

JP Corwyn - Will Wait EP (Self Released)

This EP is excellent and so is artist behind it JP Corwyn.

I didn't know what to expect but I was blown away.

He writes and plays good honest catchy rocking rock songs.

His songs are so good. It just brings you to rock heaven.

This is one good ep I have heard in a long time and can't wait hear what JP Corwyn brings out next

Kenin - Just Another Blast (Holster Records)

I have never really listed to accoustic rock album before and I am glad I have now.

Kenin have released one great album that is worth your time.

The songs are solid and catchy at the same time.

The songwriting is excellent.The stuff is fresh and exciting at the same time.

One minute your up and rocking then you are slowly tapping your feet which makes it great.

I can't recommend this album highly enough. Go on check out Kenin - Just Another Blast. It's worth your time.

Paradigm - Thirty Stories High (Self Released)

These people are worth knowning about. One heck of a band and this album shows it.

This is full of great alternative rock songs with a pop edge. There is honesty and freshness in the music.

Something that is rare these days. The songwriting and musicianship is excellent.

Shannon Curtis vocals shine thru out this album.

This is a well produced album that sounds like a major label release.

I can't highly recommend this enough as this is a album so worh your time. A band worth knowing about.

Also one of the albums of the year for me

Paradigm - Standing In Line (Self Released)

This is Paradigm first album and it totally rocks.

The album is more rock and less of the pop edge unlike their new album.

There are some great songs here. Songs that have been written well and so catchy.

The Production of this album is excellent just like there latest album.

Shannon Curtis vocals defently stand out here. I was hooked when first put in the album.

One of the most exciting fresh debut albums I have heard in a long time.

This is a must hear album.

The Fatal Mistake - Die Trying(Stiched Up Records)

Die Trying by The Fatal Mistake have released a punk pop album which is very good.

As the album is full of great catchy,solid,constient,rocking songs and most importanly fresh.

It's some of best stuff I have heard from this genre is a while.

Die Trying by The Fatal Mistake is an album worthy of your time.

Bottle Of Justus - Suddently O.K.(Self Released)

This is my new favourite band

This album is one fantastic album and one of the best modern rock to come out of this year.

The songs have been really well written,constient and get your feet tapping.

They also manage to be fresh and exciting to listen to. The production of this album is top class.

I am suprised they are not signed as their hardwork has released a fantastic album.

This is album is one of the must have albums of 2005.

Limestone - Angel Falls EP (Self Released)

This is a brilliant ep from victorian band Limestone.

It reminded me what rock was. The songs are solid,well written and powerfull.

All the songs are enjoyable to listen to.

This is a excellent ep by a great victorian band who are going places.Defently worth a listen

28N - This Planet Mercy EP(Self Released)

Another great a band who has a released a ep full of great rock songs.

The songs are well written,fresh sounding,catchy and do not dissapoint

I was hooked from first listen. Great stuff here by a great band.

Envy Message For The Blind (Self Released)

This album is great. it's full of good catchy well written rock songs.

Amanda Tvedt vocals really shine in the laid back accoustic style numbers.

Their is a mixture of hard rock songs and laid back accoustic stuff which is great.

Also a few funky numbers as well. Also comes with a cool rpg game to play on your pc.

Envy has released an album worthy of your time and will get them noticed

Honestly - Ghosts Of A Brilliant Past EP (Self Released)

This is one kick ass rocking ep.

Full of great rock songs which are well written,very enjoyable and damm catchy.

It well produced,Very fresh sounding. Some of the best stuff I have heard in ages.

This is a excellent ep that needs to be heard and a band to look out for.

Red Wanting Blue - Pride: The Cold Lover (Self Released)

This an excellent album full of well written,solid modern rock songs.

They rang from upbeat to laid back tap your feet songs but don't sound stale or out of place.

The songs have good honest feel about them,that you know what you are hearing is real and not predicitable

This is a solid modern rock album that is so worth your time.

Katie Michaelson - Swim (Like A Maniac) EP (Big World Entertainment Group)

Thanks to me looking in the single section of JBHifi I stumbled across Katie Michaelson.

Katie Michaelson is a singer songwriter who plays and writes rock pop songs.

Her songs are very catchy,well written and defently rocking and don't dissapoint.

She even co produced the ep and plays the accoustic guitar,organ and piano.

Katie Michaelson has released a ep which is worth buying and will help her make a name for herself.

Transition - Sunset Wakeup (self released)

Now these guys have released a kick ass album.

Full of great catchy punk pop songs that don't dissapoint.

But a number of the songs have a melodic hardcore edge to them.

These guys have released a great album which will no doubt lead them to bigger things.

If your a punk pop fan then this album worth checking out.

Southcott - With the rope...in the conservatory EP

Three melodic hardcore tracks mixed with a little punk pop make this release great.

The songs are catchy and they sound pretty fresh and not stale.

These guys have written some great stuff that no doubt will get them noticed.

David Dyas - ReallySuperGood (Foremost Recording Co)

It's good to hear something that is fresh and original.

Among the countless bad pop/r&b artists. David Dyas is that person.

He writes and plays good old fashion rock music which doesn't disappoint.

His songs are sold and defently rocking. He writes his songs so well.

His songs are also catchy and will get you tapping in no time.

David Dyas is some one to look out for as he doesn't disappoint with this album.

Greenwheel - Soma Holiday (Self Released)

It's good to hear a good rock album again and this is it.

Songs which remind what rock is. The songs are well written and consistent

The songs are good without being stale. Their is freshness in the songs.

This is a rerelease of their 2000 release

as it has been remixed and remastered.

A highly enjoyed album that doesn't dissapoint.

FAR - Water & Solutions Rerelease with DVD (Imortal Records/RED)

Far were a band which influnced a lot of bands today.

I can see why with this album.It is a solid album.

The songs have been well written.

The songs are not heavy as some of the bands which were around at that time.

Their songs are more real and more melodic. It is worth a listen.

The DVD is very good with video of gigs,commentary about the album and more.

Shirley Cosentino 8 Hours Song

I am not really a huge fan of modern R&B but this song I really like.

It is a well written song. Shirley Cosentino has a fantastic voice and it transends in the song

This is just a really good modern R&B song. It just feels like a real song.

She some one who is real and it comes across in her song

Do expect to hear more from her soon. She will be going places.

If you haven't read the interview with Shirley go Here

Flamingo Crash - + 'YOUR TELEVISION AND RECORD PLAYER ARE READY FOR PASSION, READY FOR LOVE' (MANIFEST X)

This is a exciting release from a up and coming band in aussie

The music is cool,catchy and exciting.

It's a experience as one minute your rocking

then your quitly tapping your feet and then rocking again

The keyboards is a nice touch to the songs.

I bet these guys are wicked live and can't wait to see them live.

I think we will be hearing more from these guys.

Quite frankly this cd rocks.

Jessie Poland - On The Second Floor EP (Self Released)

Jessie new ep is fantastic. She is a brilliant singer songwriter.

Her new songs have life in them and she writes with such passion.

She is one singer songwriter who will go far.

Across Five Aprils - Living In The Moment EP (Indianola Records/Lumberjack)

I have a new favourite band and it's Across Five Aprils

This is EP is amazing. I really really love it.

It's what melodic hardcore should be.

The songs are strong and hold on their own.

It your looking for a new band to check out. This is the band.

If you haven't got this ep go get it you won't be dissapointed.

Missy Higgins - The Sound Of Now (Eleven/EMI)

Missy Higgins is a breath of fresh air for me.

Her music is honest and heartfelt.

He songs are a joy to listen to.

Her songs are a mixture of upbeat and melow songs which say things.

You know what she is singing and playing is coming from her.

She really gives what she plays life and you just want to be there watching her play

She is a fantastic singer songwriter who is needed.

Pensive - Something About The Stars EP (Self Released)

I have been trying to write a review of this ep but have been stuck.

Not it's not a bad thing as I really enjoyed this ep.

It gave live to the punk pop gene. It is fresh,exciting and great to listen to.

The songs are catchy and are upbeat.

It felt like I was a teenage hearing punk pop first time. Enjoyed and recommend it.

Another Way - Ridicule (Pee Records)

This is hardcore as hardcore gets and it's good.

It's loud and heavy and fast paced.

It has the right mixture of hardcore and metal.

It doesn't feel like you have heard it before.

The quality of the songs are very good and the artwork is cool.

It is good release from these guys and no doubt we will be hearing more.

Codeseven - Dancing Echoes / Dead Sounds (Equal Vision/Stomp)

Codeseven has changed a lot since the fantastic album The Rescue

This album shows that.

They have a more darker sound and have embrassed the keyboards more

and a little bit of electronia as well.

The song have been written very well. The music is very top notch.

The album is a fantastic journey and well worth a listen.

Wesley Carr - Rhythm To Fly EP (Self Released/Distrubuted By MGM)

Wesley Carr is fantastic. This ep is brilliant.

He is a fantastic singer songwriter.

The songs are nicely written. The music is at a nice pace.

Not too slow and not too fast.He is honest in his songs.

I can't wait to hear more from this great Australian talent.

He is something which is needed among all these crappy pop stars and bad rap artists.

Denvar - Work Sleep Die EP (Sunday Records/MGM)

Yah Denvar are back and it's a long time coming

The songs on here are more fast paced than the last album

But the Denvar trade mark is still there.

The songs are defently catchy and get you singing in no time.

I really enjoyed this ep as it fun to listen to and can't not be taken out of my stereo.

It is another great release from one of my fav Australian Bands

10 Heads High - From Here To Tupelo (Pile On Records)

If you like great rock music than look no further than this cd.

It is full of great solid catchy tunes which have been written well.

You can crank this anywhere. A solid rock album which rocks.

On Tracy Lane - Back To Maybe Video Clip(Self Released)

This is a good upbeat rocking song. The video clip is pretty cool.

It features Lacey Chabert in it. You see the band playing with a crowd.

It is a cool clip which you should check out.

Jessie Poland - My TV Clock (Self Released)

What can I say about this 3 track ep. This is fantastic.

She has written solid catchy songs which are great.

She plays alternative pop rock stuff which easy to listen to.

which make you tap your feet and groove about.

She is going to be around for a while mark my words on it.

This should be heard by all people who like good music.

Check out the interview we did with her on the interview page

Ultrasonic - Selftitled (Self Released)
Great album with some great songs.
The songs are catchy which make you want to rock.
The songwriting is great. The production is good.
Go check this album out

This Holiday Life - The Fallout (Dare To Dream Records)
This is one great melodic rock ep.
The songs are catchy but also melodic. The songwriting is fantastic
The songs are heartfelt and are solid.
I have been giving it plenty of repeat playings. It is a must have ep.

Highroad NO. 28 - Dynamic Introspection (Self Released)

This is not a bad little release from sydney rock band Highroad NO. 28
It is heavy but with a melodic edge. The drumming gives it a driving edge
Something you can tap your feet to but also can make you just to want to rock
I liked the instrumental number. It just relaxes you then suddenly your off again
These guys with thie ep are going places.
If you want a copy of the ep it will cost you 5 dollars.
Visit their Website for more details

Pensativa - What The Problem Is..? (DoughMain Records)

This is one funky catchy record.These guys are awesome
They play hip hop mixed with jazz but are a real band with instruments
which is good in this time of computers and drum machines.
The songs are catchy and funky and make you just want to dance
The music and rapping go harmoniously together.
Their sound is different and exciting. I love and recommend it everybody

Buffseeds - The Picture Show (Fantastic Plastic/UXB Recordings)

This is very good. I love it.Good honest brit pop

The songwriting is fantastic. The songs are so uplifting

I don't have a favourite song as they are all too good

The strings a nice touch to the songs which use them

I think soon people will be saying Buffseeds.

Gets The Parx-e Seal Of Approval

Tammany Hall NYC - Buddy (Glass Records)

These guys play catchy pop rock songs that make you want rock out

The song writing is sold and the production is good

It also makes good driving music.

I liked this album and I can't wait to hear more

Cancer - Corporations (Corpro Records)

I an't much of death metal fan

But they do it well as they have been around for a while

I really liked the first song it a wicked drum beat and the guitars were good

The other songs were more of the same and there is also a remix

If you like death metal check these guys out. I am sure you will like them

Unjust - Glow (Koolarrow/Copro Records)

This is a interesting album which is good

It reminds me a lot of dredg but more of melodic edge

and in some parts a melodic hardcore edge

I really like it and I love to be able to see them live

The BluePrint - Ecliptic (Copro Records)

This is a wicked ep. Full of rocking melodic hardcore mixed with a bit of metal.

Awesome songs that are so damm catchy. The songwriting is excellent.

I love this and I can't wait to hear more.

I wan't to see these dudes live.

Oval Opus - Self Titled EP (self released)

This is a great ep. the songs are really catchy.

They just want to make rock out and dance.

But also just make me want and sit and chill with my mates.

It's good honest rock pop music which I enjoyed very much.

I highly recommend and can't wait to hear more.

Fifth Year Crush - Wearing This Life (Shoebox Records)

I really enjoyed this album as it was upbeat and really catchy.

They play rock pop music which is fantastic.

The songs have been written really well. There is no song out of place.

I think this is a fantastic album and I wish them the best of success.

Why because they have album which is a winner.

Death Cab For Cutie - Transatlanticism (Architecture/Shock)

The hype is good hype as they is really good.

Songs that are beautifully crafted. This is rocks.

My favourite song is We Looked Like Giants.

I can see why they are really popular. Enjoyed

Buffseeds - Barricade Single(Fantastic Plastic/UXB Recordings)

This is a solid brit rock song with powerfull message.

This song manages to be catchy without trying to be catchy.

If this song is anything to go by.

Then the album is going to be good. I highly recomend.

Fourth Floor Collapse - Stories Unglued (Congregation/MGM)

This is a good song. It is off there album From The Cold.

This song addeds to what Fourth Floor Collapse are. One good indie rock band.

The Dissociatives - Somewhere Down The Barrel Single (Eleven/Virgin/EMI)

This is the side project for Daniel Johns and Paul Mack.
I didn't really like silverchair last album but this is a good song.
It's really out there stuff which is different from what they both do normally.
I like and can't wait to hear the album
The other songs on here are good also. Both remixes. Get my approval.

Beloved - Failure On (Solid State/Tooth & Nail Records)

Wow the wait was worth. This is a fantastic album. I love it
Melodic Hardcore at finest. Plenty of great hooks and wicked riffs.
Plenty of full on screaming with good melodic vocals
I can't wait to see these guys live if they come down under. Recommend.

Soular - Selftitled (Chortle Records)

This would possible be one of the best modern rock album I have heard in a while
The songwriting is fantastic. The production is very good.
The songs are very melodic and are very solid. Visit Soular For More Info On The Band
This is fantastic and needs to be heard. So check this album out now.

Sherwood - Selftitled (Self Released)

This is an impressed ep which shows they have a lot going for them
When I heard this I thought wow. This is good. The songs are catchy
The song writing is fantastic. The vocals blend in well with the music
The keyboards make a nice touch to the music.
I liked it as they put the time and effort into the ep.
These guys have a future and I hope they get signed soon so there music can be heard

Watashi Wa - The Love Of Life (Tooth & Nail)

This is a greaty catchy cd with songs that can get stuck in your head
It is good with out being soppy like some other emo cd's are
It rocks without being too slow. A very good emo cd.

Tokyo Rose - Reinventing A Lost Art(Sidecho Records)

This is good as it is different from their previous work
It has a more of emo feel with out the pop punk
There is no song out of place on this album
I like and can't wait to hear more

The Revolution Smile - Above The Noise (Flawless/Universal)

I don't like Fred Durst but he has a winner of album here on his label
This album is heavy and also melodic in parts with out the cheese.
This is a step up as it's not like the usual grunge crap like Nickleback.
Bonethrower sets up the album with a heavy pounding rocking number.
There are a couple of slow songs but they work well with the album.
Why didn't Universal Australia release this instead of Puddle Of Mudd.
I like this and recomend it to all my mates

Relient K - Two Lefts Don't Make A Right But Three Do (Gotee Records)

American christian punk pop which is pretty good. They sings the same standard
songs like other punk pop bands do. Love,College etc.
There are only a few songs about God.But they are good.
Nothing really new here but they do it well.

Lost In Translation Sound Track (Emperor Norton)

A sound track which is perfect as the movie.
I can see why Sofia choose these songs as they blend in well with the story
She is trying to tell. Quite a few of the songs were written by the lead man from
My Bloody Valentine Kevin Shields. I quite liked the Phoenix songs.
If you liked the movie you will like the sound track.