Review: Archie Bronson Outfit - Derdang Derdang

This British trio thankfully diverges from the brit-pop formula by crafting a well honed rock sound with a hint of the blues. With their opening song, "Cherry Lips", they set a driving, moody tone for the rest of the album.

If you like Kings of Leon, Sons & Daughters, or the Dirtbombs give these guys a spin.

Review: Fratellis - Costello Music

I have to thank Steve Jobs on this one. Apple used one of the Fratellis songs ("Flathead") on a recent iPod commercial. I tracked down an import of their album (which has since been released stateside) and silently cursed Mr Jobs since I liked the CD.

This Scottish trio plays energentic, indie rock that I often associate with British bands. Listening to Costello Music makes me want to play it loud in a convertible on a summer day. They play in the same sandbox as the Arctic Monkeys or the Kooks and I bet would be great to see live.

Concert Review: the 88 with the Oohlas

I had to drag my butt to the west side's Key Club on Sunset Blvd for this show (on a Tuesday no less).

The Oohlas opened up the show. Fronted by the red-haired Ollie Stone, the band delivered some catchy power-pop/rock that reminded me of Belly. Good stuff.

The 88 came out in dress shirts and ties. Much like their wardrobe, the 88 are tight and well put together. Their music strays from the straight rock path always veering someplace interesting. I had never heard there music before and yet the craftsmanship in the songs made them feel instantly likable. They delivered a power pop/rock show that made me glad I ventured out to the Strip. They closed their encore with a spot-on rocking version of David Bowie's Suffragette City.

Bravo boys, bravo.

Album Review: Yosi - What's Eating Yosi?

Yosi's fourth album, What's Eating Yosi? Is all about food. On the first listen, I immediately drew parallels in my mind to Raffi or Ralph Covert (Ralph's World) since each song seems to be in a different style (Rock, Reggae, Barbershop, etc.) Yosi is obviously a talented musician. There was something about the songs that seemed sillier than Ralphs' World -- which is a feat since RW can be quite silly. "Chicken Noodle Soup" seems to be the kid dance favorite.

Album Review: New Orleans Playground

A wonderfully joyous dixieland compilation featuring Fats domino, Dr. John, The Meters, Buckweat Zydeco, and many more. It is hard to stand still for Clifton Chenier's version of "Choo Choo Ch'boogie". Fats Domino's "Whole Lotta Lovin" is another great dance tune. Hack Bartholomew finishes off the album with "When The Saints Go Marching In". A grown-up CD that kids will enjoy also.

Album Review: Toucan Jam - A World of Music

A musical duo that makes some of the most interesting kids music I've heard in a while. Their musical style ranges from Squirrel Nut Zippers to Folk to World. Many songs feel more like musical stories than verse-verse-chorus songs.

My favorite track: "Hey Mom!" reminds me of Squirrel Nut Zippers.
Dex's Favorites: "Cock-a-Diddly Doo!", "Snowy Fall's Cat"

Album Review: Justin Roberts - Meltdown!

Justin Roberts has been making kids music for a long time and it shows. He knows how to have a good time. His songs are catchy and well written pop songs that kids can relate to and grown-ups won't mind listening to.

Standouts include "I Chalk", "Get Me Some Glasses", and "Meltdown".