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Artist: The Exit Album: Home For An Island Label: Wind-Up Records Release Date: 10/11/2005 Written by AJ, VP of Altsounds.com The dreaded and anticipated Y2K came and went rather uneventfully. Although some feared the turn of the century, believing it to mark the end of the world, most looked at it optimistically, wanting a fresh start. Five years later, after seeing our world drastically changed by terrorism, political corruption, fear, war, tragedy and economic instability, the conspiracy theorists that were hiding in their bunkers with foil on their heads as the ball dropped suddenly don’t seem THAT crazy… their timing was just a little off. Even the wiping out of the Dinosaurs didn’t happen all at once. It seems large historical movements and the ‘shaking up’ of life on Earth takes place on a timeline larger than our own. However, what we have faced in just the last 5 years makes even the most skeptical raise an eyebrow....
The Exit- Home For An Island

Altsounds Recommends The Exit- Home For An Island
Links and Details: Firstly, click this link to listen to the Avenged Sevenfold songs we have available on altsounds.com: http://www.altsounds.com/altsounds/bands/1496/playall.asx Review: Well, it was bound to happen; all these hardcore bands running around dressed like glam rockers sans the teased hair had to inevitably lead to a return to the music that spawned that same fashion. Until now, the bands have sounded like short-haired mosh-metal, but the clothing has been decidedly glam. Certainly, the hardcore scene of the past was rife with machismo and the violent crews and straight edge riots did nothing but encourage the testostorone-fueled antics of the more fanatical members of the scene. But at some point, the tide began to turn. Suddenly a vibrant and vital music scene that had been hijacked by the worst stereotype of jock swung to the opposite extreme; it became effeminate, delicate even. Relegated to the memories of older scenesters were the memories of kids in fake furs...
Avenged Sevenfold - City of Evil

Altsounds Recommends Avenged Sevenfold - City of Evil
To be completely honest, I've not really had that much exposure to Against Me! in the past couple years. I've heard a few songs here and there and was aware of the building fanbase being amassed by the band, but that's really about it. So when I unexpectedly was handed a copy of the new album Searching for a Former Clarity, I was a bit leery about writing a review. It took me a few times through to get the feel for the combination of punk, folk, country and blues that these guys crank out, but it's an amalgamation of sounds that actually seems to gel quite nicely. Upon first listening through the album, I had that "eh, it's okay" attitude. It's not at all what I would call a bad album, but it just didn't blow me out of my Chuck Taylors as some recordings seem to do. Then again, this could be due to the fact that Against Me! isn't exactly the usual type of band that I run around my apartment in my underwear windmilling and air-guitaring to at 10 o'clock on any given Thursday night....
Against Me! - Searching for a Former Clarity
It's not unlikely to find bands these days in a position to change. In a time where dance rock and skinny ties are to the forefront of trendy music, OKGO is a band that follows this trend with nothing more than a typical Vintage rock&Roll record with retro dance beats conveniently thrown in to tickle the ears of the prime hipsters. If anyone has been exposed to OKGO's first self Titled LP. You will witness a difference in style and sound that seemed more like their own and with a hell of alot more hooks than their latest CD "OhNo" (Capital). As well as a sense of wit in the lyrics and song structure that put OkGo on the map. "OhNo" does have its strong points like on the opening track: 'Invincible' and #6 'It's a Disaster' both tracks tend to have the most likely hook that might trigger a sing-along after a few listens. #7 "A million ways' infuses that common dance beat that will make you wanna pop your collar and do a few spins to the disco lights. There is no denying that OKGo are...
OKGO - OhNo CD/LP 2005

Altsounds Recommends OKGO - OhNo CD/LP 2005
It seems a bit odd to write a somewhat retrospective impression of an album, but that's exactly what I find myself doing here. With the re-release of their debut album "The Unraveling", Rise Against has gone back to the beginning to blow the dust off of their first album and polish it up a bit. Aside from the sixteen original album tracks, the "new" album also throws in two bonus songs with Join the Ranks (previously released on a compilation album) and Gethsemane which was previously unreleased. Five years after deciding to come together as a band and after seeing nearly as many guitarists, Rise Against has finally made it to a level of success that allows them to be recognized on such mainstream venues as MTV's Total Request Live. Does this change anything about their music, goals or ideals? Not a chance. In an excerpt from the album in discussion, vocalist Tim McIlrath writes "These songs mean as much to us now as they did then, and we have no intention of giving this up anytime...
Rise Against - The Unraveling (re-release)

Altsounds Recommends Rise Against - The Unraveling (re-release)
The Cat's Cradle is an amazing 600+ rock venue in Carrboro, NC and several well know acts have graced its stage over the years. This year on Sept 14th 2005 I got a chance to once again see the likes of Juliana Thoery blaze the crowd with an enormous, powerful, hook laden set of the best songs they have written thus far. I have seen many live shows in my day but none as captivating as the Juliana Theory. It is an experience not only filled by a wall of sound but a dedicated group of fans singing every word like a Church Chior praising the lord! You can expect to be enlighted and inspired by a truly talented 5 piece band. TJT are the real deal! be prepared for one of the greatest surprises rock music has to offer. If you haven't heard them yet, then check The juliana Theory out right here: http://www.altsounds.com/altsounds/bands/2913/
The Juliana Theory - Live @ Cat's Cradle, Carrboro, NC

Altsounds Recommends The Juliana Theory - Live @ Cat's Cradle, Carrboro, NC
It's make or break time for FFAF with this album; 2003's Casually Dressed And Deep In Conversation was only half new material and, regardless of how good that material was, longtime fans were a trifle pissed off at the band's laziness. So, I guess this could be considered their first proper full-length. The hype has been pretty ridiculous; "All Hail the Kings of Extremo" says the NME, with their usual bluster. Is it any good, though? Yup. Opener "All The Rage" starts the album off strongly with some some excellent guitar-work and some of Matt Davies' strongest lyrics; " I'm sick and tired of always being the good guy" and "Like sitting in the back seat and boring me with your body / It's all the rage". Emo clichés they might be, but sung with such conviction (and Davies' vocals have never sounded better, Terry date did a helluva production job) they never fail to resonate with the listener. The second track and lead single, "Streetcar," had a lot of radio play over here in the UK...
Funeral For A Friend - Hours 		Was listening to a bunch of promos I had in the mail today this evening. Went through like 3 CDs and continued to work and develop altsounds when one band took my ear because they were different. They weren't that unoriginal all so familiar emo/screamo band that when you put their CD in your like OMFG not another Taking Back Sunday/Funeral For A Friend Wannabe (can anyone spot two of my favourite bands?). Anyways. 32 Leaves are putting an interesting direction on rock music. I think a lot has to do with the production too. Hold on, 32 Leaves are on double blind music (http://www.doubleblindmusic.com) which is a new rock branch of System Recordings (http://www.systemrecordings.com) a dance label with many recognizable names in the elctronic / dance world. I wonder if this rock band was produced by an electronic producer which is why it makes it so original. It's very nicely produced in a different way and I like it. * Turns over CD cover to read who produced this * * Promo Copy, no...
32 Leaves - Welcome To The Fall

Altsounds Recommends 32 Leaves - Welcome To The Fall
Between the Buried And Me return with "Alaska", the followup to "The Silent Circus". I am usually not into extreme metal like this, unless the band really stands out. BTBAM have that something that stands out to me. The first time I heard the song "Mordecai" off of "The Silent Circus", I had to hear more. There is something really emotional about this band's brand of technically brutal music that really catches me. "Alaska" is no disappointment in the BTBAM tradition of extremes. The heavy side of this band is even more punishing this time around, giving the listener a nonstop beating. The softer side of the band isn't found as much on this release, but when it is, it seems to be more polished (which is a good thing). All and all, there aren't really any "standout" tracks from this release, just a great metal album from start to finish. They really add a nice touch in the softer/jazzier moments as well. Think Dillinger Escape Plan meets The Red Chord but with a little something...
BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME - Alaska
With the plethora of albums that have been bombarding us over the last year its easy to miss the “diamonds in the rough”. A few slip under the radar and pretty much go unheard of. Which brings me to Lola Ray’s album I Don’t Know You. When I heard the first song (Plague..) off this CD I was very impressed and I also could tell this band knew exactly what direction they were going music wise. Their sound is hard to describe and the lyrics can be puzzling at times but they make it work very well. This is the kind of album you will want to put in when you are sick of everything else. It’s the kind of sound that will get your feet bouncing and your brain churning. You will definitely find yourself singing along after you have had a chance to dissect what it is they are actually singing about. Also, they have been able to incorporate a very well balanced variety of songs in that right when you get tired of the fast paced music and feel out of breath from singing you get a well deserved...
Lola Ray - I Don't Know You

Altsounds Recommends Lola Ray - I Don't Know You
Cursive The Difference Between Houses and Homes Collections of "lost songs and loose ends"-- which is how Cursive's new The Difference Between Houses and Homes bills itself-- invite commentary on everything but the music. The overlooked tracks at hand are, more often than not, acknowledged duds. They get left behind for a reason. So what's the redeeming value of the albums that compile them? It's the artifact, man. History! Put yourself in the shoes of Omaha denizens Cursive. You've been together for 10 years. How better to calcify your status as Important Band than with an odds-and-sods compilation? It's practically a rite of passage. Behold, a snapshot: The Difference Between Houses and Homes offers 12 songs, culled from seven-inches and unreleased tape, spanning six years (1995-2001). I like Cursive, and had high hopes for this one. But the spendthrift in me blows a gasket when faced with the facts: These cast-asides aren't even offered at a discount; you'll pay the same for...
Cursive- The Difference Between House and Home 		Artist: 10 Years Album: The Autumn Effect Label: Republic/Universal Release Date: Aug 16, 2005 Written by AJ, VP of Altsounds.com I sometimes wonder if the progressive/ethereal rock genre has exhausted its potential. Between the eternal powerhouse, Tool, and their successful followers Chevelle and Breaking Benjamin, it doesn’t seem very likely that a new band would come along in the same vein that is in any way unique or even interesting to listen to. Chevelle and Breaking Benjamin, of course, have some very ‘radio’ tracks, sacrificing a bit of the ambient epic feel they picked up from their predecessors. Generosity and lack of options are really the only things keeping Chevelle and Breaking Benjamin in the same category with a band like Tool, and that becomes startling obvious with The Autumn Effect from 10 Years. 10 Years are the first band to shed a very bright light on the shortcomings of progressive/ethereal rock wannabes, as they seem to tackle the genre with a level of grace...
10 Years- The Autumn Effect

Altsounds Recommends 10 Years- The Autumn Effect
Hello I'm Kidd SeNsii I happen to be a new member on the AltSounds Team. The first assignment I received would be to review the Brand new DJ Rap BulletProof EP on System Recordings. Now Being a Drum N Bass DJ myself I have always been a fan of the soft melodic vocals and the catchy rhythms put out by the enchanting Charrisa Saverio. Now the following article is a review of the BulletProof E.P. not of the CD itself which I have not yet heard and cannot form an opinion of yet. Now lets get down to business the Cover art of this particular album is somewhat uncharacteristic of past works of DJ Rap, in the past she tends to have cover art reflecting a happier more colorful image, whereas on this ep it is simply her reaching out to the consumer mysteriously. with just a dark background. There are 4 sides to this ep on two vinyl (generally what EP means) Side A "BulletProof" I guess the title track starts out very interesting with a half time almost hip hop intro around 90 bpm. Then...
DJ Rap - BulletProof EP

Altsounds thinks DJ Rap - BulletProof EP is terrible
Seeing Is believing for this 5 piece band from Portland Maine by the name of 'Animal Suit Driveby' I had the pleasure of seeing them live in Syracuse, NY at a club called Tundra. Truly unique and an utterly captivating live explosion of energy, filled with slide trombone, Bari Sax, and thick guitars. This combination of instruments is strange but possible and well placed. Although their style is in the emo genre, they can still pump out distinction giving the beaten emo horse a fresh palate. Listen to their record and get familiar, then go see them live for a supercharged live experience. www.animalsuitdriveby.com www.musclecityrecords.com
Animal Suit Driveby - JULY 2005

Altsounds thinks Animal Suit Driveby - JULY 2005 is terrible
Bob Mould has been doing the whole music thing for quite some time now. From pioneers Hüsker Dü to Sugar to his more recent solo efforts, the man just keeps on making music. Always held in high regard for his prowess as a songwriter and guitarist alike, Mould more than impresses with Body Of Song . Off the heels of the ambitious but overwhelmingly disappointing venture into electronic music known as Modulate, this album serves as Mould’s return to rock, and it would be in everyone’s best interests to pay attention. Most engaging with this recent effort of Mould’s isn’t just the airtight songwriting, but also the level of versatility that the album presents. Mould has seemingly touched all bases with this release, and fans of a variety of styles will find things to like within the album. The electronic stylings of Modulate have not completely vanished, but this time around they’re used sparsely, and even then they come accompanied with the familiar sound of the electric guitar to...
Bob Mould- Body Of Song CD review

Altsounds thinks Bob Mould- Body Of Song CD review is terrible
Artist: 10 Years Album: Wasteland Label: Universal Records Release Date: Do people release singles anymore? Well, normally I wouldn't do a review of one song, but I can do whatever I want, so here it is- 10 Years, from Knoxville, TN, will be releasing their major label debut The Autmn Effect later this summer. I am so excited I am about to shit myself. The first single 'Wasteland' just went out to radio and is getting a great response. The band has been touring with Drowning Poo for a little while now, and even though Drowning Poo sucks ass, 10 Years has been tearing it up and stealing all their fans. GOOD
10 Years- Wasteland

Altsounds thinks 10 Years- Wasteland is terrible
Coming from ex members of Blink 182, Rancid you would expect it to sound more like a little of both, but instead quite the opposite. From the opening sing along track 'Not today' to the unexpected calypso pop beats of Crash & Burn this is probably the most diverse Punk record I've heard in ages. The Experimentation of different styles meshed with the brashness of Punk make for a powerful and fun experience. You almost want to chuckle with excitement. The Piano driven 'I want it all' blends hip/hop scratch beats in the most unique and creative way. In my opinion 'Gangsters ans Drugs' ain't got nothin' on the deeper tracks. There are a few weak spots pointing toward the Sen Dog, B. real, and Boo yaa Tribe tracks. I personally don't think rap/hiphop ever meshed very well with rock. It tends to cheese up the flavor causing the listeners to be dummed down by meaningless whoops and hollas. Especially on this record which is filled with politically charged lyrics. I can still appreciate...
Transplants - Haunted Cities - Album Review

Altsounds thinks Transplants - Haunted Cities - Album Review is terrible
I stumbled upon this band called HOT VEGAS from Charlotte, NC while surfing the net and was really impressed by the songwriting for such an apparently young band only 2 years old. They had been looking to fill a date for their tour in New york City, so I hooked it up and booked them with my band, and another band from Boston, MA @ this dingy rock club in China Town called 169 bar. These guys were really good sports through all the confusion with the line-up and time slots. They made a strong impact for an early spot and rocked like there were millions! HOT VEGAS is one of those bands that can make you love them in 30 seconds. descriptive lyrics, beautiful melodies, lots of energy and true heart. THis band doesn't suck! and that's the important element when working to strenghthen your career in music. More to come from these guys so be ready for greatness. Mike Borgia - Altsounds.com
Hot Vegas @ 169Bar !!

Altsounds thinks Hot Vegas @ 169Bar !! is terrible
I made my way down to Piano's in New York Shity for yet another label showcase for a band we featured here on Altsounds called The Starrs from Appleton, WI. Let me just keep this short and to the point. I rarely see indie bands sound as full and as tight as the Starrs performed. What an amazing display of real talent. Their music can be described as simple ,catchy and well harmonized, yet full bodied and lush, not too much and never too little. If you are a fan of just straight up solid hookie pop rock with raspy "on pitch" vocal styling, then The Starrs will deliver you a larger package than King Kong. What was special, was their ability as a 3 piece to sound like 10. Even if their style doesn't interest you? I guarantee you will find them impressive to watch and hear how crisp and powerful they really sound live. catch a listen here: http://www.altsounds.com/altsounds/play.php?band_id=2412&song_id=3381&mode=song_hifi Mike - Altsounds.com
The StaRRS -Live @ Piano's NYC

Altsounds thinks The StaRRS -Live @ Piano's NYC is terrible
So I met up with a friend who thinks farting is cool and we experienced a blazingly talented band @ Piano's in NYC by the name of SATISFACTION. Yes that's the name! I had listened to their songs over and over again without bordom and after seeing them perform live, it was official of how talented they truly are. Not only do they have carsima but the songwriting is polished, well written, and so professional you'd swear they are a real band! oh well in that case they are! Having it together and being able to write songs that will stick in your mind for good is not as easy as one might think, but when you see and hear SATISFACTION they make it look so easy you just want to try it for yourself. One can't think for a second that this band doesn't deserve fame. They have every element necessary for not only mass appeal but for the in crowd as well. Witty lyrics, serious melodies and a sense of humor, using word like "Anal" and when your crowd roars the lead singer say "I know" In a...
Satisfaction - Live @ Piano's NYC

Altsounds thinks Satisfaction - Live @ Piano's NYC is terrible
Artist: The Get Up Kids Album: Live @ The Granada Theater Label: Vagrant Records Release Date: 05.24.2005 Written by AJ, VP of Altsounds.com Meet Phil Beck, quite possibly the biggest Get Up Kids fan in history. He is from Kansas and is currently living in Lincoln, NE. When I received the new Get Up Kids live record and considered reviewing it, I knew there was no way to write this review without talking about Phil. The following are excerpts from actual emails I have received from Phil in the last 2 weeks (some grammar and punctuation have been corrected to protect..well..Phil. He can’t type, but most of this is straight up exactly from the emails), and this is my review… “I know the new record is out today, Live at the Granada. I got alot more drunk at that show than I wanted to. I need to go pick up a copy but will probably have to wait till next Tuesday. Man, I have been to a lot of GUKs shows. I can’t believe the show on July 2nd will be the last but they have definitely...
The Get Up Kids- Live At The Granada Theater

Altsounds thinks The Get Up Kids- Live At The Granada Theater is terrible
LIMP BIZKIT 'The Unquestionable Truth Part 1' Similar Bands: None Listed Review: Apparently someone told Fred Durst's silly ass that he is in fact Zach De La Rocha. This is a pretty bad case of a talentless hack trying to steal someone's style and butchering it to the point of being a musical felony. He's trying to be "political" and "rebelious" - which is really funny considering he's part of the problem he's talking about... "I don't like the radio... i don't like TV... they're selling so much shit these days and the shit isn't who I want to be..... I don't like the tricks played on kids in those shitty metal books". Does he forget that he helped create a generation of idiots with the worst musical taste this side of Japanese Pop? A half retarded trained monkey could write better music than this. It's complete slop. They just keep playing the same stale riffs over and over again. It should be obvious to the world that this band has no talent.
Limp Bizkit - The Unquestionable Truth Part 1

Altsounds thinks Limp Bizkit - The Unquestionable Truth Part 1 is terrible
Lavenders, whites, reds and yellows shot from the stage putting emphasis on the jangly dynamic sounds of Shout Out Louds! Live @ the Bowery ballroom in New York City 06-09-2005. The crowd rolled in on time and ready for what was a captivating show. This is a band that knows their sound and can perform it with ease and total conviction in front of hundreds. 5 members all equally talented and well rehearsed which made for a flawless show full of energy, jumping from eye-opening highs to soft star gazing lows with comfort charisma and total professionalism. they even have a girl playing keys, singing backups and playing percussion to fill in the gaps. The music isn't rocket science and it does have its obvious points of influence (The Strokes , The Cure, Bright Eyes) but they still managed to take the beaten style and make it their own and that made for a great live show worth being there for. If the Cd doesn't get you hooked then the live show will. Mike Borgia- VP & Staff writer...
Shout Out Louds (Live review)

Altsounds thinks Shout Out Louds (Live review) is terrible
This album cannot fail. That is a bald statement of fact. If ‘X&Y’ does not break eight figures, then EMI– Britain’s last free-standing major record label –will fall into inexorable decline, the World Bank will foreclose on the British government and massive tracts of Norfolk and Cornwall will crumble into the sea. It’s a remarkable thing, but with an artist as fantastically self-critical and flaky as Chris Martin, his label still decided it was a good idea to issue a profit warning to the stock-market because his band’s new album was a few weeks late. The label quickly denied it, of course, and insisted it was also down to other parts of their business needing to perform – Coldplay’s tardiness was just a minor part in the blip. But that’s codswallop. You do the sums – ‘A Rush Of Blood To The Head’ sold 11 million copies. When Coldplay were late with this one, the label got the shits and fired a shot across the bows. How Chris Martin must have loved that. So it is that this has...
ColdPlay X&Y CD/LP 2005

Altsounds thinks ColdPlay X&Y CD/LP 2005 is terrible
Artist: Paul Anka Album: Rock Swings Label: Verve Release Date: 06/07/2005 Written by AJ, VP of Altsounds.com “Maybe I am getting even for what Sid Vicious did to me on My Way”- Paul Anka If you don’t know who Paul Anka is, ask your mother or grandmother and then turn your head quickly because she will most likely cream herself on the spot. Wicked old Canadian crooner, Paul Anka became a teen idol in 50’s with his song “Diana” and has been busting out career-shaping hits ever since for the likes of Buddy Holly, Donny Osmond and Tom Jones. Rock Swings, however, does not contain regurgitated sleepy classics like “She’s A Lady” and “Puppy Love.” Anka isn’t going down like that! Instead, he chooses to rework ‘modern standards’ like Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and Oasis’ “Wonderwall.”
Paul Anka- Rock Swings

Altsounds thinks Paul Anka- Rock Swings is terrible
Listen to 'How's it Gonna End' here:http://www.anti.com/download.php?id=59 Academy Award nominated and Grammy Award winner, Tom Waits has been long considered one of music's most influential artists because he has continuously created music outside of fad or fashion. With REAL GONE, his off-road adventures are taken into the further beyond. Mixing and mashing: worlds both sonic and ethnic, musical traditions both new and old, and rhythms both mouth-made and sampled from his own instruments, Waits has reached a new pinnacle. Written and produced by Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan, his wife and long-time collaborator, REAL GONE features 15 tracks of funk, Jamaican rock-steady, blues both urban and rural, rhythms and melodies both Latin and African and, for the first time, no piano. The crash and collide of rhythms and genres within a song creates a hybrid unlike any music he has made before. The comic, funky, hip-hop/r&b inspired instructional dance number, "Metropolitan Glide" ("now...
Tom Waits - Real Gone CD/LP

Altsounds thinks Tom Waits - Real Gone CD/LP is terrible
I made my way into Brooklyn,NY from manhattan to check out the band Kissinger for the first time. I had heard their records and was impressed with alot of the material. I figured if I was to tour in the fall with these guys it would be great to see them first. It was clear they have themselves well rehearsed. Their live show was super tight, high energy rock&roll smacked with big guitar hooks, and superior presence. The front man named Chopper is a tall lanky rock dude fit for the stage but not for a windy thunder storm. The band as a whole, seemed very comfortable with each other and happy to be playing together on stage. I see far too many bands that look like they hate each other. I would say Kissinger sounds like The talking heads meets the Blue Van. Two great combinations of quirkiness and biting presence. Go check this band out live and you will be hooked! If not? consider yourself too old for rock&roll. www.kissingertheband.com Mike Borgia- Altsounds.com
Kissinger band @ Trash Bar NYC

Altsounds thinks Kissinger band @ Trash Bar NYC is terrible
All this talk about trilogies lately has had me thinking about this new album, which represents the third of the Vagrant-era Alkaline Trio releases. From observation of trilogies like the Matrix, Indiana Jones and that other one with the wookies, there is a dawning realization that there is a formula to follow in developing an effective trilogy The first should stand alone, because the opportunity to make a second is not always afforded. When you get to the next one however, it's fairly certain that a third will follow so you may be tempted to play with the formula a little. Sometimes - but rarely - this can be good, like Empire Strikes Back; other times, it can be disappointing: The Matrix Reloaded, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Good Mourning certainly fall into the latter category. Thankfully, you can still redeem yourself with a strong third showing. The Last Crusade was so good that we were willing to forgive Temple of Doom, and the same can be said about Crimson, a...
Alkaline Trio - Crimson CD/LP 2005

Altsounds thinks Alkaline Trio - Crimson CD/LP 2005 is terrible
It's very rare for a group of girls to be able to rock as hard and as loud as Sleater-Kinney. Front to back, ths is an amazing experience filled with quirky and jagged melodies every bit as pleasing as their earlier works. All ten tracks take you on a rock and roll coaster ride with just the right amount of breathing room for change of pace. Although its not a breakthrough and all that different, Sleater-Kinney's "The Woods" is an inspiring accomplishment worthy of the worlds ears. This CD comes with a live DVD that will make you happier than shit you bought this record, but you must buy it from www.subpop.com Mike - Altsounds.com
Sleater -Kinney- The Woods CD/LP 2005

Altsounds thinks Sleater -Kinney- The Woods CD/LP 2005 is terrible
Team Sleep - Team Sleep It may have taken nearly 5 years to finally get this record in stores, but one can't really fault Chino Moreno, DJ Crook and Todd Wilkinson, who collectively are known as Team Sleep, for the wait. Following an online leak of their entire work-in-progress album, the band decided to shelve most of their previously completed material, guest appearances and all, and have now finally returned with a newly renovated collection of songs. This is not to say that all of their past tracks have been cut though, as many songs from the prior leak are still present. But rare is it that such songs haven't been reinvented with additional layers of sound, breaks and vocals. To the uninitiated, the digitally forged romp into lo-fi wistful rock that is Team Sleep is an experience not often heard. From yearning guitars paired against detached electronic programming, to the unrestrained drumming of Hella's Zach Hill and Moreno's delicate vocals, the music is at once encompassing...
Team Sleep S/T CD/LP

Altsounds thinks Team Sleep S/T CD/LP is terrible
Artist: Missy Higgins Album: The Sound Of White US Label: EMI US Release Date: 06/07/2005 Written by AJ, VP of Altsounds.com Missy Higgins’ story begins with the haunting piano ballad ‘All for Believing.’ The song written for the then-16 year old’s music class was later entered into Unearthed, a national songwriting competition run by Triple J Radio, one of Australia’s most influential radio stations. All For Believing won, hands down, and led the songwriter to Eleven Records (Virgin/EMI). The Sound Of White is not Missy’s first release, but aside from a live version of her single being spun on KCRW in Los Angeles, the United States is only now being introduced to this incredibly talented young woman. Already platinum in Australia, The Sound of White starts off right where her career did, All for Believing. The album is mostly stripped down in production because the subtle power of her voice and piano on tracks like Any Day Now and Katie don’t need any dressing up, however the...
Missy Higgins- The Sound Of White

Altsounds thinks Missy Higgins- The Sound Of White is terrible
Interpol : Olympia Theatre, Dublin/Brixton Academy, London Wednesday April 6 After a relaxing and mellow evening the night before, I geared up for a rockin’ night out in Dublin. We played at the Olympia Theatre, a gorgeous venue with actual balcony boxes. Nothing gets the blood pumping better than a great performance at a beautiful venue in front of a thousand raving lunatics. After the show we descended on an interesting space known as The Village. The four of us were with a sizeable entourage of Dubliners whom we had befriended in times past. I had the “pleasure” of being introduced to the acquaintance of one of my friends, who shall remain nameless although anyone who lives in Dublin probably knows who I’m talking about. It turned out that this girl was psychotic, and when it finally dawned on her pea-brained head that she wasn’t wanted around us, she punched one of my friends square in the eye. Before a cat fight could ensue, the scuffle was silenced by security. There seemed...
Interpol: Live in London

Altsounds thinks Interpol: Live in London is terrible
Live: Andrew Bird The Metro, Chicago, IL: 15 April 2005 Story by Joe Tangari As homecomings go, it's hard to imagine one more triumphant than Andrew Bird's most recent show in front of a packed house at Chicago's Metro. From a vantage on the balcony, Bird and drummer Kevin O'Donnell, each perched with his setup at the front of the stage, made a dashing pair, a whirl of motion and energy from the moment they took their places. Bird stood in a half-circle of gear and instruments, a glockenspiel under his vocal mic, pedals and looping devices at his feet, his violin always within reach and a guitar slung wildly on his back. He grinned and swatted at his mop of hair and engaged with the crowd in a nervous/confident way, removing his shoes with great flair as he allowed the pizzicato loops of opening number "Sovay" to percolate. The room swayed. By now, Bird's live performance technique of laying down a bed of violin one layer at a time into a looping pattern and recreating songs from...
Andrew Bird -Live!!

Altsounds thinks Andrew Bird -Live!! is terrible
Bruce Dickinson is an artist who has influenced thousands of singers, musicians and fans alike in his outstanding role as the front man of legendary band Iron Maiden. He has also on to achieved great success as a solo artist, and is also acclaimed as a Radio DJ, TV presenter, pilot, author and voice of modern music. It has been seven years since Bruce released his last solo album ‘The Chemical Wedding’ which received massive critical acclaim and explored intriguing and dark Blakean themes. The intervening years have seen him make a highly successful return to Iron Maiden, with two huge albums and record breaking live shows and tours. ‘Tyranny Of Souls’, Bruce’s new solo venture, sees him return to once again to collaborate with guitarist/producer/writer Roy Z in Los Angeles. The album is adorned with a 15th century depiction of hell by Hans Hemling and continues this theme to explore dark apocalyptic themes delving into science, theology and of course his love of flight, with...
Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden!!!

Altsounds thinks Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden!!! is terrible
I recently caught a show of Bowman at the Lion's Den in New York City. As always I was skeptic when it comes to an unsigned band and if they hold as much weight as their record does. I must say it was extremely tight and well played. The energy was good and nothing seemed put on. The songs had a much stronger more energetic and fuller sound than the CD does and the CD is well produced and recorded. The songs are really catchy whether you like them or not you will appreciate their talent. Anyway you get my point about Bowman. If you are a fan of guided By voices or the Goo Goo Dolls then you should check out Bowman right here -> http://www.altsounds.com/altsounds/bands/2170/
Bowman ( from Boston)

Altsounds thinks Bowman ( from Boston) is terrible
THE RED CHORD 'clients' Similar Bands: i'm not taking time to fill this out. Review: how do you go from bein a promising new band with a upcoming sophmore release and regress into shit after it's unleashing on the public? THIS REVIEW WILL TELL YOU HOW!!! FIRST, release the first album with enough death metal/grind influence to make the biggest metal nerd argue your genre (IT'S ALWAYS BEEN METALCORE FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO DIDN'T KNOW OR WERE HAVING TROUBLE). the first song is reminiscent of fused together in revolving doors and that is a good thing.
The Red Chord - Clients (CD)

Altsounds thinks The Red Chord - Clients (CD) is terrible
File this under flamebait and bid a fond farewell to my credibility. And yes, I said credibility again. Alright, let’s go back to 2002, where the Starting Line released their first full-length, Say It Like You Mean It. I liked it a lot... and I mean it. At the time, however, my tastes did consist of the Drive-Thru catalog almost exclusively, so I suppose at this point there’s no real surprise in my enjoying such an upbeat, poppy album. However, here in 2005, where my favourite bands range from Saves The Day and Shutdown to Joan Of Arc and Bane, I’d say my tastes have matured at least a little bit, though I’m certain many would argue. With this maturity, I’ll go out on a limb and say that I’m a bit more critical of the music I listen to. Okay we’ve covered my life story and my attempt at defending myself for liking the Starting Line. Based On A True Story is sheer proof that the Starting Line have used these last three years as a period of maturation, both vocally and...
The Starting Line - Based on a True Story (CD)

Altsounds thinks The Starting Line - Based on a True Story (CD) is terrible
SINAI BEACH 'Immersed' Similar Bands: Killswitch Engage, Vision of Disorder, Eighteen Visions Review: Well I planned on giving these guys a bad review. I don't really care for their last record at all. Plus it was on Facedown so that meant christian bands, wich as a whole i don't really care for. I was suprised to see this release on Victory. With Comeback Kid on their roster it seems they might be trying to grab up all the facedown bands. They use a bunch of electronic stuff on this album compared to other bands in their genre. It's really not bad though. It's an easy listen. Its not going to make me an uberfan but if its in someones CD player I'm not going to complain. Its full of breakdowns, two-step parts and the occasional singy part. The singers vocals are nothing spectacular, and he should leave out the singing parts. Really I have to say that this is a pretty decent record and if you like them you'll probally love this record. If you dont I could see them getting more fans...
Sinai Beach - Immersed (CD)

Altsounds thinks Sinai Beach - Immersed (CD) is terrible
Iron & Wine Woman King EP Rating 8.5 Branching out from his sophomore album, last year's Our Endless Numbered Days, Southern folk artist Sam Beam's latest outing is a six-song change of course that builds on his previous strengths. Here, Beam grows more adventurous, exploring new avenues with the help of producer Brian Deck, and even penning a couple of his best songs yet. Listen here: http://www.altsounds.com/altsounds/bands/715/
Iron & Wine E.P

Altsounds thinks Iron & Wine E.P is terrible
ine Inch Nails With Teeth To some degree, Trent Reznor was a victim of his own success. As a fresh-faced misanthropic hottie screaming about god, money, and the two-backed beast over a 'roid-ragin' Tron soundtrack, he was exactly what the kids wanted. But when Reznor journeyed into the center of his sound and his soul, the kids took a rain check, finding their fix of synthesized cathartic self-loathing elsewhere. (Linkin Park, I think you might owe somebody a thank-you card; ask Reznor about the one he sent to Wax Trax! Records.) In 1996, the dude was so money that an EP of Downward Spiral remixes went gold, while both NIN full-lengths were well on their way to multi-platinum status. But in 2004, a full-length remix album covering the entire NIN oeuvre festered on the shelves of mall record stores, while Reznor's then most-recent studio LP (the double-your-pleasure doozy known as The Fragile) was shipping a measly one million copies.
NIN - With TEETH CD/LP

Altsounds thinks NIN - With TEETH CD/LP is terrible
Bright Eyes I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning Rating 8.7 Once the textbook definition of adolescent "emocore," Omaha singer/songwriter Conor Oberst redefines himself with this Americana masterpiece. The album perfectly recounts his first memories of staying in New York City, and the metropolis rarely gets a folk singer to chronicle its streets this lucidly; he frequents its parties and stumbles down its streets like a midwestern transplant instead of a jaded hipster, weaving the personal and the political more fluidly than most singers even care to try-- and the consummate tunefulness just strengthens those moments where he pinches a nerve.
Bright Eyes - I'm wide awake,

Altsounds thinks Bright Eyes - I'm wide awake, is terrible
What is it about Fall Out Boy that makes everyone pick up arms and march off to war? With all the Internet shit-talking you’d think they were the anti-Christ (or the return of Christ, depending on your particular belief), but they’re not. They’re a pop-punk band from Chicago. And for those expecting anything else out of the boys, you’re looking too closely at their music. With that in mind, let’s take away the context. Viewed on its own, solely as a CD, From Under The Cork Tree is a fun listen, much like their last FBR/Island/whomever effort Take This To Your Grave. There’s always been a little more to their lyrics than “I love you” or “I don’t love you, choke and die.” Their critics would argue not much more, and their devoted fanbase would argue much more. I’m skeptical here and am more inclined to be on the side of their critics. Tracks like “Of All the Gin Joints in the World,” “Dance, Dance,” and “Our Lawyer…” will bore into your brain like a diamond-tipped drill after just...
Fall Out Boy - From Under The Cork Tree

Altsounds thinks Fall Out Boy - From Under The Cork Tree is terrible
PJ Harvey, Uh Huh Her (Island). You never know what this English rocker will do next, which is only one reason she’s so great. The 2000 Stories from the City, Stories from the Sea rode such a ringing romantic high, it was perhaps inevitable she’d crash hard. Here, cloistered and virtually alone, she fuses the rawness of earlier work with Stories’ melodicity, whispering and screaming of betrayal and secret assignations, at once scornful, hurt, and fierce.
PJ Harvey UH Huh Her CD/LP

Altsounds thinks PJ Harvey UH Huh Her CD/LP is terrible
The Cure Seventeen Seconds / Faith / Pornography Rating: 7.5 / 8.8 / 8.4 Between 1980 and 1982, the Cure switched lineups, switched producers, made friends with the pop charts, and steadily toured Europe. They also got drunk, got weird, got in fistfights with one another, took loads of drugs, walked off tour, and generally danced through some surreal Kabuki version of the Libertines' recent press. We're looking for a word and the word is "tumult."
The Cure Elektra; 1980 / 1981 / 1982; r: Rhino; 2005]

Altsounds thinks The Cure Elektra; 1980 / 1981 / 1982; r: Rhino; 2005] is terrible
Ever since Franz Ferdinand mysteriously made the big time, especially in the UK, people have been searching for a band who are going to achieve a similar feat and gain success from pretty much out of nowhere. Four-piece Bloc Party are the latest band to be hyped to the maximum, even though they are not as outwardly commercial as Franz / Razorlight / the Libertines. Their first full-length, Silent Alarm, goes a long way to -- for once -- justifiying the industry hype. A more abrasive and challenging record than you would expect, Bloc Party never really stick to one style and in that respect are consistently keeping up the listener's interest. Vocalist Kele Okereke is a pretty strong vocalist, even if he reminds me a bit of the dude from Ikara Colt, and he really leaves an impression. The drumming is also excellent throughout, with frantic beats and time changes evident on most of the tracks, especially "Banquet" and "Little Thoughts." Bloc Party can go from reminding you of the Cure...
Bloc Party - Silent Alarm

Altsounds thinks Bloc Party - Silent Alarm is terrible