Press Play – Album Reviews

Blood on the WallLiferz*1/2Hi there, I’m in the market for something part garage-punk and part psychedelia. I want something that sounds like acid-tripping Ramones, but I want that dude from Mars Volta to be singing, only his voice should sound like he’s been boozin’. Also, the album should have lots of lyrics and song titles that sound like inside jokes, you know, the sort of thing that hometown fans will love but will be lost on everyone else.

If you like those things I listed above, there’s a good chance you’d be into Liferz. There are lots of power chords, fuzzy bass and pointless drums that are lost in the auditory ether. This album hurts a listener’s ears, but that seems to appeal to some kids. If you’re a youngster who feels cheated that you missed out on the heyday of punk that was Iggy Pop, The Clash and MC5, then you’ll be entertained for at least all 25 minutes of this uninspired, innovation-lacking mess.

Steve Goldberg and the Arch EnemiesSteve Goldberg and the Arch Enemies**There’s a baroque 1960s pop sound that rings through this self-titled album in a way that could be superb if the band didn’t go out of their way to prove their ability to write a clever turn of phrase. A plethora of instruments are accessed here, to the point of distraction. It’s certainly possible to put more than a dozen instruments on a single disc, but the balance such a choice demands is not met here.

There is one point of redemption: “23rd Identity Crisis” is a track that felt part Mega Man soundtrack, part rock, and it worked great. It makes me wish the band could strike such a pleasing combination of genres and styles more frequently.

LemuriaGet Better****1/2This is a superb album from a superb band. Sheena Ozzella takes the vocal reins with a graceful voice that doesn’t overpower or get lost in the mix. The heavy guitars are a pleasing sonic force with a smile-inducing bass behind them, and the soft guitar and bass work hits a groove that reminds listeners of rolling gleefully in grass with their favorite lover.It’s hard to pick a favorite track from Get Better, because they all sound great and can play along with a wide swath of emotions. Some vocal work is done by drummer Alex Kerns, and his voice is very soothing.

The lyrics can sound simple or complex, anecdotal at times and poetic at others. Take them how you will, but it’s undeniable that Ozzella singing in her gorgeous voice over solid instrumental work is enjoyable.