Wednesday, March 05, 2025

March 2025 #1 Elliott Murphy , Blu Lyon, Peter Zicko, Suits LA and more

 


Track Listing:
1. Granny Takes A Trip
2. Red Moon Over Paris
3. Baby Boomers Lament
4. The Lion in Winter/The End of the Game
5. Fetch Me Water
6. Three Shadows
7. Makin’ It Real
8. Night Surfing
9. Count My Blessings


RIP David Johansen, Badfinger's Joey Molland, Robert "Sad Eyes" John, Roberta Flack, Gene Hackman ...five great talents. Strangely, I've written nothing about Johansen, even though I first saw the New York Dolls March 1, 1973 at K-K-Katy's in Boston. If Johansen passed February 28, 2025, that's like 52 years to the day before that I saw them. I taped the show, of course, but it sounded like a big old jet liner in a little club. I was 19 years of age. It looked like Mick Jagger in the room, with two hot blondes on his arms, so I went over and asked "Will the NY Dolls be on Rolling Stones Records" and the fellow said "No" into my tape recorder. It was Steven Tyler of Aerosmith with I believe Maxanne Sartori on one arm (she made them famous via WBCN) and Elissa Perry (Joe Perry's first wife) on the other arm. Elissa Perry got Jimmy Miller and I the Buddy Guy project, and we did publicity together in the mid 1980s. Johansen knew I signed his NY Dolls guitarist Johnny Thunders to New Rose Records, I was their first album signing in 1978 when they called themselves Flamingo Records, as A & R I signed Willie Loco Alexander to our RCA Distributed label. Johansen cornered me at a party for one of Don Law's secretaries and was telling me I had to clean Johnny up (from his heroin abuse.) When my band opened for Johnny at the Paradise a WERS DJ wanted to interview Thunders but Johnny kept saying "Joe Vig has to interview me" so I did. Would love to have that tape. Anyway, my little tribute to Johansen. Saw him play many times, just a tremendous artist. I first saw him play 52 years ago yesterday.



My significant other comes back up the stairs before heading off to work and says "Bill next to our car heard you on WJIB yesterday" (talking about Jackie DeShannon, I guess, thank you John!) this is another Bill on Whittier Drive, not to be confused with Billy Boy, WJIB is the #1 station where I live, and it is amazing Bob Cook listens in his apartment, Billy Boy and Sharon have 740 am playing in the recreation room. Here's a new 2011 version of Bette Davis Eyes by Jackie DeShannon, Singer/Songwriter https://youtu.be/M9R2tiCnI6c A year after her induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Jackie returns with 11 new recordings of her best-known tunes. Those include her hits Needles and Pins; When You Walk in the Room; What the World Needs Now Is Love, and Put a Little Love in Your Heart plus Bette Davis Eyes; Don’t Doubt Yourself Babe; Come and Stay with Me, and others she wrote!



 


Peter Zicko live at the Magic Room, with Larry Lessard engineering, a video and new single, "One Voice."

It's a commanding sound with Pete's authoritative voice. "Let me be heard for miles around." Captain Kirk said on Star Trek's Mirror Mirror S. 2 Episode 4 "In every revolution, there's one man with a vision." The Zicko revolution is here. Peter Z on a six string acoustic with a tight band behind him, and exquisite lead lines, a drummer with a powerful beat. If it had heavy keyboards one would think Moody Blues. Tim is on a melodic piano, Tony and the crew making Z company rock. The 4:39 of the YouTube has 52 seconds of intro making for a song of 3:40 thereabouts. It's catchy, memorable and worthy of your attention. You'll keep spinning it. JV 5:45 pm 2/24/25

some words from Peter Feb 27 at 5:52 PM

Cool man!!! I really wanted you to check out my video that I spent thousands of dollars to produce... 3 days of shooting in my hometown of Natick ...30 extras with several drone shots all set to the track One Voice... Recorded at Melody Way studios... The Magic room video is ok... Larry did a great job with the sound... But 3 weeks before the show the guitar player quit and the girl singer quit... Tony had to learn 40 songs in 3 weeks on guitar... Some original songs that he had never even heard before... So it didn't go well... To say the least...Lol... 





Blu Lyon is a music creative and performer deeply rooted in Caribbean music. He was born to the legacy of Soca legend Superblue, his estranged father. His sisters Terri Lyons and Fayann Lyons also made and are making waves in the lively Soca music scene.
Blu Lyon's musical canvas is predominantly the dancehall genre. His production has been used by dancehall talents like Vybz Kartel, Mad Cobra, Mr. Easy, Mega Banton, Dexta Daps, Gyptian and Maestro Don. Blu Lyon's talent has also earned him opening performance spots for established acts like Ryan Leslie, Fetty Wap, Dexta Daps, Funk Master Flex and more
During his high school years Blu Lyon encountered his innate ability to merge hip-hop with the infectious vibes of dancehall. While pursuing his studies in college, Sony Music and associates of Murder Inc. took notice of his production work, but unfortunately, those opportunities dissipated. Blu Lyon's grandmother misplaced the number to the Sony Music executive who attempted to contact him, and the Murder Inc. affiliate who he was supposed to meet faced an untimely death.
Despite these setbacks, Blu Lyon persevered and was introduced to members of Beatmania Studios, who became his allies in music production. With them he recorded his first dancehall/reggae song that saw some considerable attention; "Poor No More". The song went semi viral on YouTube and was loved by many European music fans. He also met and began working with a Dexta Daps who had just started his musical journey at Beatmania.
Jamaica soon became a second home and place for creative communion with his close friends and business partners JJ Wizzle, Rico Tayla, Kev watts, and Jermaine Vybz; Yardstyle Entertainment.
Blu Lyon's music has received considerable airplay and features on Caribbean radio, TV and other notable media outlets. He also pushed his creativity showcasing his versatility as "Smoke" in the web series Sons of Kingston.
His latest accomplishments include his production work for a Pepsi Jamaica commercial featuring dancehall artiste Laa Lee, a No. 1 spot on the iTunes reggae chart with his single 'Walk With The Vybz', a plaque acknowledging 2 million cumulative video streams of the song 'Pioneer' with Bounty Killer and Maestro Don, and significant interest in two of his solo releases 'Bu$$ Fare' and 'Cheat With Benefits'.
His latest releases are the 'Only Fans Riddim' ft. Dexta Daps, Gyptian & himself and 'Back It Up' which he worked on with JJ Wizzle. Blu is also working on an album entitled 'Super Blue's Bastard Son' which has seen significant delays due to a multitude of reasons, however it is still a project he plans to release. To engage with Blu Lyon's digital space and experience more of his work you can visit his official website www.blulyon.com.




Luis Fonsi, Stefflon Don - Calypso



Spoiler alert: SUITS LA SUCKS

To quote the great Roma Maffia from the film Disclosure, LA Suits lacks any managerial

brio.   What I love about the old Perry Mason series (and spin-offs Jake and the Fatman, Matlock and Diagnosis Murder, and let's face it, Law & Order SVU is definitely a Perry Mason spin off) is the terrific stories, directing delivery/acting, they work on all cylinders.

Was SO excited to go back to the worlds of Suits, White Collar, even the m.i.a. Lincoln Lawyer.  They all are captivating, fun and exciting.  Episodes 1 and 2 of Suits LA both have no character development, no identity, at least when the comedy vinyl lp The Masked Marauders did a parody of Bob Dylan and Mick Jagger it was humorous.  There  is no humor in this watered-down pathetic excuse for a Suits spin-off.  If you like boredom and a television program that says nothing, does nothing, this empty suit is for you.  The original is still the greatest. 









Elliott Murphy “Infinity” Album

March 7, 2025 Press Release   

“Infinity” - The 52nd album by internationally acclaimed American rock singer-songwriter (and long-time Paris resident) Elliott Murphy contains nine musically eclectic songs with the kind of provocative lyrics associated with Elliott since his ground-breaking debut album Aquashow (1973). “Infinity” will be released March 7, 2025 on all streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music etc.) as well as on a limited edition CD and Vinyl LP.  

Produced by Gaspard Murphy, son of Elliott and a producer in the French pop music world, “Infinity” was recorded at Murmure studio in Paris with Elliott's virtuoso guitarist of 29 years Olivier Durand along with Melissa Cox (violin), Alan Fatras (cajon and percussion). Song titles include “Granny Takes A Trip,” “Red Moon Over Paris,” “Baby Boomers Lament,” “The Lion in Winter/The End of the Game,” “Fetch Me Water,” “Three Shadows,” “Makin’ It Real,” “Night Surfing,” and “Count My Blessings.” All songs (except “Count My Blessings”) were composed by Elliott Murphy in an energetic flurry of creative activity last year.

“For me “Infinity” is a collection of energetic cultural icons dancing their way to all kinds of music. Inspiration comes in waves and new songs started crashing onto the shores of my consciousness sometime last year as I sat with my fingers on the strings of my 1961 Fender Strat or my hands on the keys of my 1973 Fender Rhodes electric piano, trying not to filter myself, and staying open to wherever the words, melodies and chord changes were leading. Each new album I release takes the shape of a novel with songs as chapters and I hope “Infinity” tells a story of our current confusing times and hazy future with icons keeping us grounded.”

ElliottMurphy.com

https://thesomervillenewsweekly.blog/2025/02/25/hotline-to-the-underground-11/

HOTLINE TO THE UNDERGROUND

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By Joe Viglione

Back in the early days of the Boston Rock and Roll Scene it was James Isaacs’ Cellars by Starlight and Rory O’Connor at the Real Paper who ran weekly columns that benefited our music scene greatly. Along with those pioneers was Ms. Janis Reed’s monthly column in Musicians’ Magazine, which migrated to The Beat in the 1980s.

As I managed Janis and she is somewhere in South America, I decided a few years back to resurrect the column in Billy Tauro’s Somerville/Medford News Weekly.

My goal is to inspire more rock writing in Boston, and to give exposure to veteran musicians as well as the up and coming.

A GREAT PLACE TO MEET IS AT BRISTOL STUDIOS

WHEN: Friday March 14, 2025 @ 7 pm! WHERE: Bristol Recording & Voice Studios 238 Huntington Ave. Boston, MA 02115 It’s an Open Mic night

Admission goes toward a studio services raffle for all participating artists! Pre-registration is required for all performers Give us a call to learn more: 617-247-8689 Or email us at info@bristolstudios.com Original music or covers are welcome Bring your own tracks or accompany yourself Keyboard & PA system provided This is a family-friendly event – no profanity, please!

Owner Ric Poulin told me via phone on Saturday, the 22nd, that they tape the performances. Call the Studio for more details

DEAN PETRELLA, bassist Chris Cruz and drummer Anthony Marotti = THE COMPLAINTS ARE BACK!
One More Fight by Dean and the Boys is now out
https://youtu.be/yx8sjgKs69w What’s intriguing about this tune is that an acoustic duo version is available before the recording happened https://youtu.be/iogsIQcv2ts Dean Petrella, performs One More Fight Live from Alley Taps, Nashville TN 9.12.2023. Co-written by Joe Martira. Songwriter showcase at this legendary Nashville hot spot. Impromptu guitar work from the legendary John Brazile. The song works as an acoustic number or with the band’s legendary trademark sound. Their debut album, Fear, from 2000 means that this is twenty-five years of refining and defining their sound, a quarter of a century. It shows on “One More Fight” which perfectly continues their great structured work of melodic rock

Aart Knife has an amazing new band Wicked Theory
When Aart was on my Boston Rock and Roll Anthology #2 in the band L-88 they were a big hit on WBCN – the early 1980s, and we put them in the Worcester Centrum with Blue Oyster Cult due to the popularity of the hit.

“This Could Be Love” by Wicked Theory, an all original hard-rock quintet, clocks in at 3:02. Wonderfully layered guitars in the twenty-two second intro draw you in with Jodee Frawlee’s distinctive voice setting the pace. Not a cover of The Cars “This Could
Be Love,” Wicked Theory has its own brand of crunching, relentless rock that would fit on any free-form radio signal. Led by L-88/Theory 13 guitarist, producer Aart Knyff, and with versatile bassist Tony Franklin (The Firm, White Snake, Blue Murder, Bonham and original Foreigner vocalist Lou Gramm,) Keith Ryan on drums and Jeff Instasi on rhythm guitar and vocals, these veterans create an intelligent, fun and explosive rock sound that delivers the goods. Frawlee’s authoritative and heartfelt approach to each lyric along with the web of guitars makes for repeated spins. Music recorded at Compound Recording and mixed and mastered at PDQ with 16 time Grammy Award winner Bob St John, “This Could Be Love” is a winner. Joe Viglione 9:44 pm

And at Sanctuary – Cultural Arts Center
80 Main St, Maynard, MA 01754-2541 you can close out February on Friday evening, the 28th at 8 pm Doors 7 PM | Show 8 PM with Gary Backstrom Band and The Gravel Project
Liquid Light Show by Sons Lunaris
Originally created by Andrew Gravel (vocals, guitar), The Gravel Project is an all star band of Boston music veterans including brother, Jordan Gravel (organ, keys), Dave Fox (drums), and Eguie Castrillo (percussion). The Gravel Project’s live show blends rock, world music and jazz with power and soul. Carrying the tradition of 70’s blues and psychedelic rock music, The Gravel Project embodies the spirit of Santana combined with the classic raw energy and moving songwriting of The Allman Brothers and Tedeschi Trucks Band. With three studio albums, a live album and countless past performances, the future is bright for Boston’s The Gravel Project, and as the title of their 2022 studio album suggests, there are “Many Miles Ahead.”
The Gary Backstrom Band will be opening the night – a Boston-based band that mixes Soul, R&B, Funk, Rock and Latin grooves

RADIO SHOW OF THE WEEK, ROCK UNDER THE RADAR WITH MARIAN FERRO Rock Under the Radar
Marian Ferro is the host of this show on Mark Skin Radio

Q: When did you first start in radio?

A: 14 years ago, 2011 on the Watertown public access station, WCAC. I was on WMFO starting in 2016. When covid was rampant, we community members were not allowed to go to the station. I’m still technically on the staff but I had to stop doing a show when my hip problems made it impossible for me to walk up those stairs.

Q:Where do you find the music that you play?

A Many places. My boyfriend, Walter, is always finding new bands/CDs. Musicians, publicists, and labels send me some music. I also try to keep up with artists that I like to find out when they have something new.

Q:How do artists contact you?

A Sometimes email, sometimes through Facebook *Marian’s e mail is attila5@comcast.net

Q:Tell us the focus of the show

A It’s called Rock Under the Radar because I focus on rock, and I like to introduce my listeners to artists/music that they don’t yet know. I also play a lot of blues, and local artists, some local classics. And I end each show with the piece de resistance; Serious Guitar Time!

JV: Thank you for participating
Upcoming show: Come down and rocknroll in Roslindale.
Hambone Skinny The Guilloteenagers Screw Cart
The Square Root March 29, 2025 8PM $10 The Square Root
2 Corinth St, Roslindale, MA 02131-3015,

Kenny Selcer has a terrific video with “Waves” 5 minutes and 8 seconds of instrumental magic https://youtu.be/LhFw4v6GHOY Kenny’s cover of Lowell George’s ”Willin” is sublime. Willin’ by the great Lowell George of Little Feat fame. Enjoy! Please subscribe to my You Tube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/kenselcer

Paul Norman has a TV show Music Alive North Shore which we will profile soon. Check out the Facebook page. Paul’s son, Alex Norman is doing music in Mexico and has an autobiographical song out, The Space Between.” https://www.facebook.com/reel/1007971737888431


The Joe Vig Top 40 www.joevigtop40.com

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https://thesomervillenewsweekly.blog/2025/02/18/the-joe-vig-top-40-www-joevigtop40-com/#more-112948

By Joe Viglione

Hummingbird Syndicate will be at the Tavern at the End of the World in Boston with Low Spark on March 9th at 4:30 pm 5pm – 6pm Hummingbird Syndicate 6:20pm – 7:30pm Low Sparks. Hear 5 minutes of pure Pop with “Gracefully” from Lynn Shipley, Steve Gilligan, Jon Macey and the gang. You tube here: https://youtu.be/kd7cH79K0wA It’s a gorgeous video and a classy, memorable guitar line that Macey has been known for from his days in Fox Pass, Mercury Records’ Tom Dickie and the Desires and Macey’s Parade. Continue reading The Joe Vig Top 40 www.joevigtop40.com →

As for Low Spark: Lucky Girl EP
Short review by Joe Viglione

Released on November 15, 2014
the Lucky Girl EP bv Low Sparks is smart pop with bursts of melodic energy that delights. “I Just Want You Back” is five minutes and six seconds of a wonderful musical excursion, kinda like a sequel to the Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses.” A slow groove with pensive vocals and music
that would make Gram Parsons proud. “No Getting Over You” is reminiscent of Emmit Rhodes, “I Just Want You Back” is five minutes and six seconds of a wonderful musical excursion, kinda like a sequel to the Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses.” A slow groove with pensive vocals and music
that would make Gram Parsons proud. “No Getting Over You” is reminiscent of Emmit Rhodes, while New Year’s Day and its chorus of “just let go” would be welcome on any post-Lou Reed Velvet Underground album from Doug Yule. Thanks to Bandcamp where I found this
https://lowsparks.bandcamp.com/track/new-years-day

If you want some spectacular reggae, listen to HONEY B
Clocking in at 4:20 Honey B’s “Happy For You” is a delightful, uptempo positive look at life. The kaleidoscope, calypso, cosmic cheerful sounds would put anyone in a good mood.

Produced by Issachar Muzik and featuring the legendary Roots Radics founding members Honey B’s voice propels the celebration. This isn’t Millie Small’s 2 minute opera “My Boy Lollipop” with Chris Blackwell of Island Records’ insight, the almost four and a half minutes go by just as
quickly as Small’s definitive and iconic 60’s hit. You’ll find “Happy for You” on repeat, just as “My Boy Lollipop” was….and still is. Joe Viglione 7:13 pm 2-17-25 http://www.joevigtop40.com

FROM PATRICK MANIAN OF MOBILE STEAM UNIT
PEACE AND QUIET

Patrick Manian’s solo project, including “Peace and Quiet” is a marvelous travel to a dreamy landscape. Five minutes and thirteen seconds of an exotic world peopled by multiple sounds that cascade alongside Patrick’s science-fiction vocals. Released on: 2025-02-11 the guitar and percussive feelings melt into the lyrics which quickly
find themselves swirling with other voices and by the 2:15 mark threads of keyboards building – not to a crescendo, but to soothing, oozing thoughts inside the perpetual mellow mood.

joe viglione review, 4:29 pm Feb 17, 2025

Babygirl, Nicole Kidman

Age Gap relationships a big thing nowadays, especially on YouTube with Cher, Mick Jagger, Rupert Murdoch and so many others dating people they love that are…well, people, where age doesn’t matter. A handsome young intern – Samuel (Harris Dickson,) plays mental games with a CEO (Romy) played by Nicole Kidman. “Incredibly inappropriate” is the catchphrase from Samuel, whose competition is Antonio Banderas as Jacob. On IMDB everyone has a first name only, and what could have been devolves into a long, drawn-out watered down Fatal Attraction. When Antonio and Harris (or Samuel and Jacob, how Biblical) get into fisticuffs the first thought that came to my mind was….threesome. Unfortunately they all don’t jump into bed (good idea for a sequel) and it just kind of fizzles away. If mind games and good looking people are on your menu for a nice night out…or nice night at home streaming, well, Babygirl is your cheap fling at the movies.

Zach Kaas & The Macrocosmonauts have a truly post-psychedelic video with “Stock Tips.” It’s a driving well-played song with unique splashes of pop/jazz and musical diversions that keep your attention. Music, Lyrics & Visuals by Zach Kaas Mixed and Mastered by Jason Felitto at My Lady On Fire (Brighton, MA)

Chicago, Live at 55, DVD/Blu Ray on Mercury Studios (the old Eagle Rock) is a very Las Vegas look at the venerable band that delivered hit after hit throughout the decades. From the press release: Chicago, the legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band with more than 100 million albums sold worldwide, are captured in this 2½ hour event recorded this past November at Ovation Hall at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, NJ in front of a live audience of 10,000 fans over two nights. The film, produced by Award Winning Producer Barry Summers as part of the critically acclaimed Decades Rock Live concert series, features the band who play songs from the album, including some never-before-performed songs as well as “unplugged” versions of some of Chicago’s classic tunes.
Joined by special guests Robin Thicke, Chris Daughtry, Steve Vai, VoicePlay, Judith Hill, Robert Randolph and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, each performance is visualized in vibrant video and animation.

Joe Vig’s thoughts: “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” is picture perfect, like the hit single. From the 1982 film Summer Lovers, which could have been much more (don’t blame the song, it fits in perfectly) flawless guitar, flawless vocals, this professional band knows its audience and how to deliver. Not for fans of the Velvet Underground who will find this ostentatious and grandiose, nor will Deep Purple’s Appreciation Society run to these sounds, but Chicago’s success was always playing to a mainstream audience, different audiences through the 60s, 70s, 80s, but always the mainstream in those audiences. Good for them. Well done, and a supreme delight for their vast fan base.

E mail Demodeal@yahoo.com if you have music new or old and maybe you’ll get on the JoeVigTop40!!!


at

Thursday, February 06, 2025

February 2025 Ronnie Spector, Freddie King Janis Joplin Merilee Rush Patrick Manian "Peace and Quiet" The Complaints One More Fight

 roberta is gone    february 24, 2025


Z Company - One Voice (Live at The Magic Room)




Peter Zicko live at the Magic Room, with Larry Lessard engineering, a video and new single, "One Voice."  It's a commanding sound with Pete's authoritative voice.  "Let me be heard for miles around."  Captain Kirk said on Star Trek's Mirror Mirror S. 2 Episode 4 "In every revolution, there's one man with a vision."  The Zicko revolution is here.  Peter Z on a six string acoustic with a tight band behind him, and exquisite lead lines, a drummer with a powerful beat.  If it had heavy keyboards one would think Moody Blues. Tim is on a melodic piano, Tony and the crew making Z company rock. The 4:39 of the YouTube has 52 seconds of intro making for a song of 3:40 thereabouts.  It's catchy, memorable and worthy of your attention.  You'll keep spinning it. JV 5:45 pm 2/24/25









Siren Review by Joe Viglione

There are many extraordinary things about Ronnie Spector's Siren album. It was conceived and produced by the legendary Genya Ravan (aka Goldie Zelcowicz) of one of the first all-girl bands, Goldie & the Gingerbreads. It has a street feel much like Ronnie Spector's solo concerts over the years. Members of Johnny Thunders' Heartbreakers, the Dead Boys, and Mink DeVille must have been honored to appear on this, and the musical integrity and heart is there, for sure. The problem here was the timing. The new wave was just cresting with Willie Alexander, producer/singer Genya Ravan, Ian Hunter, Mink DeVille, the Shirts, and so many others releasing substantial records that mainstream radio turned its back on. And here's the classic '60s voice which ruled on Top 40 for five hit records in 1963 and 1964 rocking out with the best of them on songs like "Settin' the Woods on Fire" with backing by the Diamond Dupree Band, or singing to the reggae beat of the Bahama Mama Band on Roger Cook's "Let Your Feelings Show." If Phil Spector overproduced to good effect, Genya Ravan purposely underproduced, choosing instead to let flavors of different musicians paint the fabric behind Ronnie Spector. In her book Be My Baby on page 248, Ronnie says "Genya was a strong producer who knew what she wanted, just like Phil." High praise indeed. This album came after Ronnie's exquisite "Say Goodbye to Hollywood" and before the Columbia Unfinished Business album, both neatly compiled on the aforementioned Dangerous disc on Raven. "Happy Birthday Rock & Roll" has the magic, and the other singles released by Ronnie during the '70s would be nice additions to Siren on an extended CD package.


Siren
Spector, Ronnie
Beskrivning:
Sångerskan Ronnie Spectors (jo, hon var gift med Phil Spector) första soloalbum, efter den framgångsrika karriären med gruppen The Ronettes.
"...This is a dynamic and diverse album with even Janis Joplin/Merrilee Rush/Troggs songwriter Chip Taylor weighing in on "Any Way That You Want Me." If Phil Spector overproduced to good effect, Genya Ravan purposely underproduced, choosing instead to let flavors of different musicians paint the fabric behind Ronnie Spector. In her book Be My Baby on page 248, Ronnie says "Genya was a strong producer who knew what she wanted, just like Phil." High praise indeed. This album came after Ronnie's exquisite "Say Goodbye to Hollywood" and before the Columbia Unfinished Business album, both neatly compiled on the aforementioned Dangerous disc on Raven. "Happy Birthday Rock & Roll" has the magic, and the other singles released by Ronnie during the '70s would be nice additions to Siren on an extended CD package." (Joe Viglione, allmusic.com)
Speltid 36:29.
Skivbolag: Polish PRG 808 (1980)
Format: LP
Skick: Vinyl Mycket gott skick
Spår:


FROM PATRICK MANIAN OF MOBILE STEAM UNIT

PEACE AND QUIET

Patrick Manian's solo project, including "Peace and Quiet" is a marvelous travel to a dreamy landscape. Five minutes and thirteen seconds of an exotic world peopled by multiple sounds that cascade alongside Patrick's science-fiction vocals. Released on: 2025-02-11 the guitar and percussive feelings melt into the lyrics which quickly
find themselves swirling with other voices and by the 2:15 mark threads of keyboards building - not to a crescendo, but to soothing, oozing thoughts inside the perpetual mellow mood.

joe viglione review, 4:29 pm Feb 17, 2025


Don't Be Shy
Patrick Manian

Thu, Feb 13 at 4:37 PM
Dear Listeners,

I am releasing a solo album. 3 of 10 songs are out now

These songs originated sporadically over the past 10 years. I'm not sure I would write any of these today. It's time to release them. 

This applies specifically to 'Peace and Quiet.' Right after the lyrics came pouring out, I thought something like 'that was cathartic but I could never release that". Upon further reflection, I realized that is exactly why I should release it. I have a suspicion that most relationships of a deep nature have to go through periods of strife.

On a lighter note, here is a review from a close friend about 'Don't Be Shy'

"This is exactly the type of G Harrison infused jubilance tonic we need to stay healthy and clean. Love some frogs! Walking on the sidewalk! The sonic tonic contains notes of Nillsson in his zest for a romp, a psychedelic undercurrent of Impala and a devotional breeze that blew through George's equally lovely locks."

I couldn't have done this without the studio works of Andrew in Marfa, Hannah taking desert photos, Ivan helping write the seeds of P+Q above Niagara, Dan on bass in Lost My Way, Joe on the mixes and my lovely sparring partner Diana. Thank you 🙏

Sincerely,
Patrick

Luis Fonsi, Stefflon Don - Calypso




Before I personally shut down Medford Community Cablevision, Inc. (TV 3 Medford) the juveniles attacked my YouTube, smeared my name, and hacked my Wikipedia Page Detective, former Lt. John J McLean, promised to put it back up. I demanded he make the juvenile delinquents put it up, but he said he would do it. The creep reneged and lied. But my writings keep being mentioned on Wikipedia.
en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Burglar_(album)Burglar (album) - Wikipedia
Burglar is an album by the American musician Freddie King, released in 1974. [1] [2] King signed with RSO Records on the advice of Eric Clapton. [3]King supported the album with a North American Cromer, Ben (Jun 14, 1997). "Vernon's Blues Horizons expand with new label, Code Blue". Billboard. Vol. 109, no. 24. p. 41.
"Burglar Review by Joe Viglione". AllMusic. Retrieved 5 November 2023.

Burglar Review by Joe Viglione

Produced in part by Mike Vernon, who worked on The Legendary Christine Perfect Album, this is an entertaining and concise package of ten songs performed by the late Freddie King and a slew of guests. Opening with Gonzalez Chandler's "Pack It Up," featuring the Gonzalez Horn Section, the youthful legend was only 40 years of age when he cut this career LP two years before his death. Though no songs went up the charts like his Top Five hit in 1961, "Hide Away," Burglar is one of those gems that journeymen can put together in their sleep. Tom Dowd produced "Sugar Sweet" at Criteria Studios in Miami, FL, featuring Jamie Oldaker on drums, Carl Radle on bass, and guitarists Eric Clapton and George Terry, which, of course, makes this album highly collectable in the Clapton circles. The sound doesn't deviate much from the rest of the disc's Mike Vernon production work; it is pure Freddy King, like on the final track, E. King's "Come On (Let the Good Times Roll)," where his guitar bursts through the horns and party atmosphere, creating a fusion of the pure blues found on "Sugar Sweet" and the rock that fans of Grand Funk grooved to when he opened for that group and was immortalized in their 1973 number one hit "We're an American Band" a year after this record's release. Sylistically, Freddie King is from the same school as Buddy Guy, two men instrumental in bringing this art form to a mass audience. King stretches those sounds with great fervor on the Hayes/Porter number "I Had a Dream," containing the strength Mark Farner said the blues artist displayed in concert, which could snap a guitar neck. The voice of Freddie King is what drives J.J. Cale's "I Got the Same Old Blues," the horns and the guitar battling between verses and uniting to ooze under the guitarist's vocal expression. Rhythm guitarist Bob Tench, producer Mike Vernon, bassist DeLisle Harper, drummer Steve Ferrone, and pianist Roy Davies all co-write "Texas Flyer" with Freddie King, a prime example of the modern blues this artist was developing. With Brian Auger and Pete Wingfield contributing to the title track, Jerry Ragovoy's "She's a Burglar," this project stands as a solid representation of an important musician which is as enjoyable as it is historic.

ON THIS DATE (55 YEARS AGO)
January 20, 1970 - Janis Joplin: "Try (Just A Little Bit Harder)" b/w "One Good Man" (Columbia 4-45080) 45 single is released in the US.
Written by Chip Taylor and Jerry Ragovoy - from the LP, "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama!"
_________

RECORD WORLD, January 31, 1970
Janis Joplin, perhaps the greatest living female rock star, says "Try (Just a Little Bit Harder)" (Ragmar, BMI) (Columbia 45080).
__________
Joe Viglione, allmusic
When Clive Davis aired an unreleased live performance of this tune by Janis Joplin, a blitzkrieg "Try (Just A Little Bit Harder) on a Friday night TV show in the seventies, most likely The Midnight Special, there was no denying the singer's ability to take control of a great composition and give it everything and more on stage. Co-written by Chip Taylor,the author of The Troggs"Wild Thing" and Merrilee Rush's "Angel Of The Morning", along with the man whose catalog was single-handedly re-discovered by Janis Joplin, producer Jerry Ragavoy, this song was one of the major moments on the singer's vastly underrated I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama! album. Covers by Cathy Richardson, Pearl Toni and Lorraine Ellison followed in the footsteps of Janis, Chip Taylor offering a little more insight by releasing a three minute six-second version in 1996 on his Hit Man CD, forty seconds shorter than the definitive Janis Joplin rendition. Opening up with percussive shakers and a throbbing bassline, "Try (Just A Little Bit Harder) is the most urban of all Joplin's workings of Ragavoy compositions. Gabriel Mekler crafts an oozing and spiritual opening track with chirping horns and dynamic rhythms. It's a diving board for Janis Joplin's wail, and that televised performance offered more perspective, stunning in its energy and the magnetism of the singer's star power. This anthem in the post-Big Brother & The Holding Company phase of her career was more about feeling than the "gotta get that guy" attitude of the lyrics. We know what Janis is singing about at this point in time, now it is all about how she sings it, and she delivers the goods. Where Blood, Sweat & Tears and Chicago put the horns in your face, here those instruments supplement the great white blues singer without getting in the way of her mission, or her message. A moment unique and riveting in the singer's career.
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Producer Denny Diante had hit with Maxine Nightingale the year before this effort, and the thought of bringing back the gal who sang "Angel of the Morning" was certainly a noble idea. The self-titled album, Merrilee Rush, opens with "Save Me," sounding very much like the melody of Air Supply's 1980 hit "Lost in Love," making one wonder which was written first. Tom Snow's "You" was a hit for Rita Coolidge in 1978, so Diante and Rush had the right concept, and though the performance and sound is pretty good, Coolidge's production and spirit were deserving of the Top 25 status this song eventually garnered. Rush sounds as mature on this outing as Marianne Faithfull does in the passage of time between "As Tears Go By" and her comeback, Broken English. Rush's voice is a bit tattered but charming on "Easy, Soft and Slow," one of the album's finest and most majestic moments. The star looks pretty on this album cover, perhaps a bit more seductive than she appears on her Turnabouts debut nine years prior. It's too bad she didn't cover Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon's "Bette Davis Eyes" instead of releasing a carbon copy of her 1968 Top Ten hit "Angel of the Morning." Weiss had written for the original Rush album on Bell nine years earlier, as had Mark Lindsay, Joe South, and John Phillips. There were also multiple Chip Taylor songs on her debut, and maybe a cover of Taylor's composition for Janis Joplin, "Try (Just a Little Bit Harder)," would have been what the doctor ordered for this. Instead they seek redemption and almost get it by opting for a beautiful Christine McVie ballad from the sublime Bare Trees album by Fleetwood Mac. "Spare Me a Little of Your Love" should have been a hit for McVie prior to 1975's "Over My Head," and though the choice of material is fine, the hard rock guitar strips away the elegance of the original version. The gospel voices give this a Southern rock feel, not conducive to the chart success enjoyed by Helen Reddy and the aforementioned Rita Coolidge, and too drawn out to reach the market that embraced Linda Ronstadt's version of "Heatwave," although this tries to go in that direction. Because her voice changed so, as did the times, a more energized "Angel of the Morning" could have given this arty record a chance on FM radio. "Love Birds" borrows heavily from Tony Orlando & Dawn's "Candida," posing the question, did Diante and the record label know where they were taking Rush with this outing? "Could It Be Love I Found Tonight" is a big '70s ballad that would fit perfectly on a Melissa Manchester disc, but the production doesn't hit it out of the park. An endearing "Be True to You" starts country and goes back into the Manchester feel-good preaching that "Bridge Over Troubled Water" kicked the decade off with. An important work that needed just a bit more support to see it through. - Joe Viglione 

 Producer Denny Diante had hit with Maxine Nightingale the year before this effort, and the thought of bringing back the gal who sang "Angel of the Morning" was certainly a noble idea. The self-titled album, Merrilee Rush, opens with "Save Me," sounding very much like the melody of Air Supply's 1980 hit "Lost in Love," making one wonder which was written first. Tom Snow's "You" was a hit for Rita Coolidge in 1978, so Diante and Rush had the right concept, and though the performance and sound is pretty good, Coolidge's production and spirit were deserving of the Top 25 status this song eventually garnered. Rush sounds as mature on this outing as Marianne Faithfull does in the passage of time between "As Tears Go By" and her comeback, Broken English. Rush's voice is a bit tattered but charming on "Easy, Soft and Slow," one of the album's finest and most majestic moments. The star looks pretty on this album cover, perhaps a bit more seductive than she appears on her Turnabouts debut nine years prior. It's too bad she didn't cover Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon's "Bette Davis Eyes" instead of releasing a carbon copy of her 1968 Top Ten hit "Angel of the Morning." Weiss had written for the original Rush album on Bell nine years earlier, as had Mark Lindsay, Joe South, and John Phillips. There were also multiple Chip Taylor songs on her debut, and maybe a cover of Taylor's composition for Janis Joplin, "Try (Just a Little Bit Harder)," would have been what the doctor ordered for this. Instead they seek redemption and almost get it by opting for a beautiful Christine McVie ballad from the sublime Bare Trees album by Fleetwood Mac. "Spare Me a Little of Your Love" should have been a hit for McVie prior to 1975's "Over My Head," and though the choice of material is fine, the hard rock guitar strips away the elegance of the original version. The gospel voices give this a Southern rock feel, not conducive to the chart success enjoyed by Helen Reddy and the aforementioned Rita Coolidge, and too drawn out to reach the market that embraced Linda Ronstadt's version of "Heatwave," although this tries to go in that direction. Because her voice changed so, as did the times, a more energized "Angel of the Morning" could have given this arty record a chance on FM radio. "Love Birds" borrows heavily from Tony Orlando & Dawn's "Candida," posing the question, did Diante and the record label know where they were taking Rush with this outing? "Could It Be Love I Found Tonight" is a big '70s ballad that would fit perfectly on a Melissa Manchester disc, but the production doesn't hit it out of the park. An endearing "Be True to You" starts country and goes back into the Manchester feel-good preaching that "Bridge Over Troubled Water" kicked the decade off with. An important work that needed just a bit more support to see it through. - Joe Viglione 


Artist: Merrilee Rush
Album: Merrilee Rush
Label: United Artists Records
Catalog#: UAS 30 106 XOT
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: Germany
Released: 1977
Genre: Rock, Funk / Soul, Disco
Format: FLAC (tracks+.cue)
Duration: 00:36:36



• Producer Denny Diante had hit with Maxine Nightingale the year before this effort, and the thought of bringing back the gal who sang "Angel of the Morning" was certainly a noble idea. The self-titled album, Merrilee Rush, opens with "Save Me," sounding very much like the melody of Air Supply's 1980 hit "Lost in Love," making one wonder which was written first. Tom Snow's "You" was a hit for Rita Coolidge in 1978, so Diante and Rush had the right concept, and though the performance and sound is pretty good, Coolidge's production and spirit were deserving of the Top 25 status this song eventually garnered. Rush sounds as mature on this outing as Marianne Faithfull does in the passage of time between "As Tears Go By" and her comeback, Broken English. Rush's voice is a bit tattered but charming on "Easy, Soft and Slow," one of the album's finest and most majestic moments. The star looks pretty on this album cover, perhaps a bit more seductive than she appears on her Turnabouts debut nine years prior. It's too bad she didn't cover Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon's "Bette Davis Eyes" instead of releasing a carbon copy of her 1968 Top Ten hit "Angel of the Morning." Weiss had written for the original Rush album on Bell nine years earlier, as had Mark Lindsay, Joe South, and John Phillips. There were also multiple Chip Taylor songs on her debut, and maybe a cover of Taylor's composition for Janis Joplin, "Try (Just a Little Bit Harder)," would have been what the doctor ordered for this. Instead they seek redemption and almost get it by opting for a beautiful Christine McVie ballad from the sublime Bare Trees album by Fleetwood Mac. "Spare Me a Little of Your Love" should have been a hit for McVie prior to 1975's "Over My Head," and though the choice of material is fine, the hard rock guitar strips away the elegance of the original version. The gospel voices give this a Southern rock feel, not conducive to the chart success enjoyed by Helen Reddy and the aforementioned Rita Coolidge, and too drawn out to reach the market that embraced Linda Ronstadt's version of "Heatwave," although this tries to go in that direction. Because her voice changed so, as did the times, a more energized "Angel of the Morning" could have given this arty record a chance on FM radio. "Love Birds" borrows heavily from Tony Orlando & Dawn's "Candida," posing the question, did Diante and the record label know where they were taking Rush with this outing? "Could It Be Love I Found Tonight" is a big '70s ballad that would fit perfectly on a Melissa Manchester disc, but the production doesn't hit it out of the park. An endearing "Be True to You" starts country and goes back into the Manchester feel-good preaching that "Bridge Over Troubled Water" kicked the decade off with. An important work that needed just a bit more support to see it through. - Joe Viglione 


 • Side One:
A1. Save Me (Douglas Flett, Guy Fletcher) - 3:24
A2. You (Tom Snow) - 3:07
A3. Mama (Steve Ferguson) - 3:20
A4. Easy, Soft And Slow (Steven Dorff, Gary Harju, Larry Herbstritt) - 3:18
A5. Angel Of The Morning (Chip Taylor) - 3:36
 • Side Two:
B1. A Fool In Love (Andy Fraser, Frankie Miller) - 3:50
B2. Love Birds (Richie Supa) - 3:30
B3. Could It Be Love I Found Tonight (Richie Supa) - 4:36
B4. Be True To You (Eric Andersen) - 3:31
B5. Spare Me A Little Of Your Love (Christine McVie) - 4:24

      Arranged by Jimmie Haskell, Michel Colombier
      Producer by Denny Diante
      Engineer – Ron Malo
      Art Direction – Ria Lewerke 

Personel:
Merrilee Rush - Vocals
Lee Ritenour - Guitar
Michel Colombier - Organ, Piano, Synthesizer
Edgar Lustgarten - Strings
Tom Scott, Wilton Felder - Saxophone
Lew McCreary - Trombone
Background Vocals:
Julia Tillman Waters, Oren Waters, Maxine Willard Waters,
Tom Babler, Stan Farber, Ron Hicklin, Jon Joyce






Chip Taylor wrote Angel of the Morning, he also wrote "Try" for Janis Joplin off of Kozmic Blues Try (Just a Little Bit Harder) Review by Joe Viglione https://www.allmusic.com/.../try-just-a-little-bit-harder... Chip Taylor (born James Wesley Voight; March 21, 1940) is an American songwriter and singer noted for writing "Angel of the Morning" and "Wild Thing".[1] He is the paternal uncle of actress Angelina Jolie and former actor James Haven. He is the younger brother of actor Jon Voight and geologist Barry Voight.  https://www.allmusic.com/song/try-just-a-little-bit-harder-mt0014817380

When Clive Davis aired an unreleased live performance of this tune by Janis Joplin, a blitzkrieg "Try (Just A Little Bit Harder) on a Friday night TV show in the
seventies, most likely The Midnight Special, there was no denying the singer's ability to take control of a great composition and give it everything and more on stage. Co-written by Chip Taylor,the author of The Troggs"Wild Thing" and Merrilee Rush's "Angel Of The Morning", along with the man whose catalog was single-handedly re-discovered by Janis Joplin, producer Jerry Ragavoy, this song was one of the major moments on the singer's vastly underrated I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama! album. Covers by Cathy Richardson, Pearl Toni and Lorraine Ellison followed in the footsteps of Janis, Chip Taylor offering a little more insight by releasing a three minute six-second version in 1996 on his Hit Man CD, forty seconds shorter than the definitive Janis Joplin rendition. Opening up with percussive shakers and a throbbing bassline, "Try (Just A Little Bit Harder) is the most urban of all Joplin's workings of Ragovoy compositions. Gabriel Mekler crafts an oozing and spiritual opening track with chirping horns and dynamic rhythms. It's a diving board for Janis Joplin's wail, and that televised performance offered more perspective, stunning in its energy and the magnetism of the singer's star power. This anthem in the post-Big Brother & The Holding Company phase of her career was more about feeling than the "gotta get that guy" attitude of the lyrics. We know what Janis is singing about at this point in time, now it is all about how she sings it, and she delivers the goods. Where Blood, Sweat & Tears and Chicago put the horns in your face, here those instruments supplement the great white blues singer without getting in the way of her mission, or her message. A moment unique and riveting in the singer's career.


Clocking in at 4:20 Honey B's "Happy For You" is a delightful, uptempo positive look at life. 
The kaleidoscope, calypso, cosmic cheerful sounds would put anyone in a good mood.
Produced by Issachar Muzik and featuring the legendary Roots Radics founding members
Honey B's voice propels the celebration.  This isn't Millie Small's 2 minute opera "My Boy Lollipop" 
with Chris Blackwell of Island Records' insight, the almost four and a half minutes go by just as
quickly as Small's definitive and iconic 60's hit.  You'll find "Happy for You" on repeat, just as
"My Boy Lollipop" was....and still is.    Joe Viglione 7:13 pm  2-17-25

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3mucvKIC88

For Immediate Release

Honey B Announces Uplifting New Roots Reggae Single "Happy For You" – A Celebration

of Collective Success

Los Angeles,CA– January 17, 2025 – Fresh beginnings, new opportunities, and the pursuit of

self-improvement are on everyone’s mind this time of year. In this spirit of growth, reggae artist

Honey B is releasing her new roots reggae single, "Happy For You," a track that encourages

listeners to celebrate the success of others as a means to unlock their own happiness and personal

expansion.

Produced by Issachar Muzik and featuring the legendary Roots Radics founding members –

Flabba Holt, Dwight Pinkney, Lincoln “Style” Scott, Eric “Bingy Bunny” Lamont, and Richard

“Tee Bird” Johnson, ”Happy For You" blends a traditional reggae sound with modern themes.

The song is a call for unity, and a refreshing reminder that by celebrating others’ achievements,

we create space for our own success to flourish.

With social media's pervasive influence, it’s easy to find ourselves comparing our lives to the

curated successes of others. In a world where jealousy and scorekeeping have taken a toll,

"Happy For You" challenges the norms and promotes a culture of unity. It’s a call to move

beyond the zero-sum mentality and recognize that supporting others does not take away from our

own journey. In fact, it fuels our progress. The song echoes the powerful sentiment, “If you want

to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” reinforcing the idea that patience and

mutual support create a foundation for success that benefits everyone.

The track also draws on the timeless Jamaican proverb, “Today for you, tomorrow for me,” a

reminder that everyone’s time to shine will come. “I want people to feel empowered by each

other’s successes, not threatened by them,” Honey B says of the new track. The message in the

music is bound to connect with both older fans who value the genre’s deeper messages, as well

as younger listeners who might be seeking music that speaks to their personal experiences and

current struggles. “We’re in this together,” Honey B insists,”and when we root for each other, we

amplify that collective spirit.”

Currently based in the U.S. with over a decade spent living in the West Indies, Honey B’s sound

is versatile, resonating with reggae fans who value tradition, while also appealing to newer

listeners who appreciate fresh yet grounded voices in the genre. Known for her lyrical substance

and natural delivery, Honey B’s music inspires and unites audiences worldwide. Her Jamaican

fans affectionately call her 'the Raggamuffin,' a testament to her authentic, entertaining sound.

With influences ranging from the iconic Bunny Wailer, whose sweet melodies and creative

diction have always inspired her, to Super Cat, Brigadier Jerry, and Sister Carol for their

clever phrasing, and Tanya Stephens’ captivating storytelling technique, Honey B gives credit,

respect and gratitude to some of Jamaica’s musical pioneers.

By blending modern-day challenges with classic reggae themes, “Happy For You” is not only

thought-provoking, but deeply relatable, and it invites people to reflect on their own actions,

moods, and how they can contribute to a collective sense of triumph. This approach motivates
people not only to listen to the music but to actively engage with its message.
The next time you’re surrounded by other people’s success, let it spark inspiration, not
discouragement. It’s a sign that the energy of possibility and triumph is in the air, and we’re all
part of the celebration.
“Happy For You” is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Honey B and Issachar
Muzik. In addition to the single, Honey B is gearing up to release a music video that will visually
capture the song’s positive message. With a full social media campaign to amplify the song’s
reach, Honey B is also planning live performances and future collaborations with Issachar Muzik
that promise to take her sound even further.
For press inquiries, an electronic press kit (EPK), and more information about Honey B,
please contact:
contact@therealhoneyb.com
Pre-Save “Happy For You" now: https://tr.ee/z7xyI0lTKO
Follow Honey B on social media for updates and more:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linkmehoneyb
Website: http://therealhoneyb.com/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/linkmehoneyb
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoneyBreggae/
YouTube:linkmehoneyb































_______________________________________________________



They Couldn't Follow it up!!!! Zager & Evans Review by Joe Viglione https://www.allmusic.com/album/zager-evans-mw0000848456
A stark white album cover with the two thin musicians fading into the pale, a mailbox with "2525" inferring that this is a sequel, a follow-up to the album which featured their number-one hit single, and proof in these grooves that writing record reviews is hard work. This project gives record labels an excuse as to why important artists don't get multiple album deals -- there's nothing remotely sounding like a hit, in fact, this is just a horrendous collection of bad songs by Rick Evans who takes all the blame for the words and music. Not only is "Mister Turnkey" a terrible song title, it's the best example of how awful the songwriting here is -- "Mister Turnkey, it's ten p.m. -- in Wichita Falls, August 16th, 1969 -- and I'm in some bar. Mister Turnkey, I need a woman, and I ain't getting far." Of that there is no doubt, because if his pick-up lines are as bad as his diary, he better not hold his breath till the year 2525 waiting for a response. Haven't these guys ever heard of the old Elton John or Randy Bachman or Jeff Lynne trick of borrowing a few riffs and ideas to come up with a new and exciting product? "During REM" is more hokey songwriting: "soon it will be Monday morning and the world will be mourning for the day it has just thrown away." This could be Bob Dylan playing a joke on RCA Victor, and this could be the most difficult listening experience in RCA's storied history until Lou Reed's Metal Machine Music came along. This recording makes Len Barry's dreadful Ups and Downs, Rob Grill's disjointed Uprooted, and the collected works of Bob Pfeifer seem like lost masterpieces. The money that went into this turkey would have been better spent on a cheesy Sci-Fi film version of the hit single that was number one for six weeks. A song like "Reginald Ludwig" won't be in BMI's Top 100 soon. "Produced" by Ted Daryll and Ray Cork, Jr. probably, because Phil Spector was busy with the Beatles. You will know why Yoko Ono's records are so entertaining -- because she, at least, had a vision. When John Lennon and Yoko dressed in all white they made a remarkable statement. When Rick Evans and Denny Zager wear the same attire they fade into the woodwork. Brian Christian engineered some great records in his day, and one can only imagine what was going through his mind while working on this.



Fear Review by Joe Viglione
https://www.allmusic.com/album/fear-mw0000315568
This very smart music from Cranston, RI's the Complaints was engineered by the legendary Phil Greene -- former guitarist with Warner Brothers act Swallow and heavily associated with John Cafferty & the Beaver Brown Band as well as New Kids on the Block. For a trio they wield some serious power, Dean Petrella's vocals and guitar protrude like an unholy marriage between Nirvana and the more mainstream Neighborhoods from Boston, a group Greene also worked with. But the finished product works for these nine short pop tunes -- all bordering on the two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half minute length -- pack a lot of punch. "House Wife" is spunky enough to evoke what the Doobie Brothers might've sounded like if they were churning out their hits in the new millennium: funky with drive. The snare drum sure feels like one of Phil Greene's old tricks, something called "Janet's Beaver" where the recording studio combined samples from Janet Jackson's "Nasty" with some Beaver Brown drum sounds. Bam! The crackling sample was utilized on many tracks coming out of that notable Rhode Island facility and the snap works to good effect on this disc. "Ugly Girl" is another stylistic change, the nine Neil Petrella originals clever and concise. The rhythm section of Chris Cruz on bass and Anthony Marotti's drums keep the foundation together for Petrella while the haunting backing vocals on "Ugly Girl" show the band knows the needs of its pop audience. In a move that's most appreciated by those who like to read the words, the trio published all the lyrics on their TheComplaints.com website which also has clean navigation that doesn't annoy, though the lyrics are included in the obligatory tiny type inside the black eight page booklet with a very intriguing blurry photo of the band. There's a montage of dozens of photos inside the jewel case making for novel packaging along with some solid music. Check out "I Won't," a jangly Raspberries/old-style Beatles tune that comes in at two-minutes-and-forty-eight seconds and exits before you can get tired of it. With songs short and sweet, the boys get the message across and shut it down quick, which is the best avenue for pop artists to take. Some tracks work better than others, but the Fear CD is an admirable first effort that rocks with authority.
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