Ministry - With Sympathy - CD (1983), U.S.A.

The end of October is upon us and to get into the spirit of Halloween (sort of), here is Ministry's first album, With Sympathy. Before Ministry turned into an Industrial/Heavy Metal band, they once performed synth pop music, similar to Fresh Color, The Human League and Another Day. Hard to imagine, but it's true!
Conceived in 1981, in Chicago, Illinois, the early incarnation of the band consisted of Alain "Al" Jourgensen (vocals/guitar) and Stephen George (drums). Upon reading a bit of history about this album, it brought me great fascination to find out that front man Al Jourgensen really hated this album and went so far as disowning it! It seems that doesn't seem to be the case anymore, since the official Ministry website actually lists the album in the discography page, whereas before it was mysteriously absent. Perhaps Al had a change of heart? Another interesting aspect about this album, was the involvement of former Psychedelic Furs drummer Vince Ely, along with Ian Taylor (Romeo Void, The Cars,...) in the production department.
I find it intriguing and sometimes find myself wondering what it'd been like if Al had kept churning out this sound for years. As a matter of fact, I'll unabashedly state, With Sympathy is my favorite Ministry album! I never tire of listening to Effigy (I'm Not An), Revenge and Say You're Sorry. The pulsating fat synth bass lines, drum beats and Al's smooth whiney vocals really draw me in. I'd say the only song in the album that really fails to catch my attention is the idiosyncratic sounding What He Say. Although, your mileage may vary. Enjoy!

Details:

Ministry - With Sympathy - CD (1983), U.S.A.

1. Effigy (I'm Not An)
2. Revenge
3. I Wanted To Tell Her
4. Work For Love
5. Here We Go
6. What He Say
7. Say You're Sorry
8. Should Have Known Better
9. She's Got A Cause

Review

More Information:
Official Website
Official Myspace
Discography

Gravity Pirates - New Age Dreams - LP (1987), Australia

I've realized, it's been a while since the last update. My apologies to all who were expecting monthly updates, but my interest in this blog temporarily veered off course. Now that I'm back, here is Gravity Pirates' second album, New Age Dreams. After their smashing debut album, This Way To The Cargo Cult, the band decided to make a 180 degree turn or how some would say, "Jumped the shark".

New Age Dreams, released in 1987, represents an unexpected change from the group. Instead of gradually evolving their sound like most other bands, they abruptly attack the listener with a callous statement, "Here's our new sound, love it or leave it!" All of the thundering drums, profound synths and cold guitars from their previous effort are now missing and substituted with acoustic guitars, light weight drumming and female vocals (by Sharon Van Tromp). To describe the new sound, I'd say it's a combination of Folk with touches of New Wave. One would really have to sit down and listen with an open mind to grasp the feeling of this album.
What happened? It's difficult to understand what provoked the band to promptly change their direction, but whatever the reason was, it definitely turned into a displeasing result. Although they did a decent rendition of Lou Reed's Femme Fatale, this album's surmountable paltry effort is just too much to take notice. Sorry Gravity Pirates, but I don't like it.

Details:

Gravity Pirates - New Age Dreams - LP (1987), Australia

Side One:

1. Feather

2. Driving

3. Bitterness & Tears

4. Chee

Side Two:

5. Lazy Sunday

6. Everyday

7. Femme Fatale

8. New Age Dreams

9. Plip Plops

Review

More Information:

Official Myspace?

Discography

Presence - Inside - CD (1993), U.K.

The next oddity for this month is another band from the U.K., called Presence. After Laurance "Lol" Tolhurst departed acrimoniously from The Cure in 1989, he went on to form this very short lived act with former Fools Dance vocalist, Gary Biddles and bassist, Michael Dempsey, who was also formerly of The Cure. Other members included Chris Youdell (keyboards) and Alan Burgess (drums). Rob Steen (guitar) and Roberto Soave would later join to replace Dempsey on bass to complete the line-up.
Free from the reigns of control of Robert Smith, Lol was able to meld his own sound. For those who are curious, Presence in some ways sounds how The Cure would've sounded if they evolved into an alternative rock band, but with the traditional dream-pop sound still intact. Don't believe me? The tracks taken from their album Inside, such as Act Of Faith, Pause and Missing are very good stark examples. This also makes a good argument for Cure fans to critique on Lol's influence or lack of influence (whichever you believe) while he was with The Cure.
Before anyone took notice of their brief existence, Presence released a very modest discography, which only included three singles and one critically acclaimed (but commercially unsuccessful) full length album. Nearing the end of this post, I'd like to point out the album I'm presenting here, was originally released in 1992 in the U.K. first (obviously) and then released in the U.S. a year later with two additional exclusive tracks (what a surprise!). Unfortunately, by the time the album was released in the states, the band had already split.

Details:

Presence - Inside - CD (1993), U.K.

1. Never
2. Fragments
3. Act Of Faith
4. On Ocean Hill
5. Revolve
6. Highest Peak
7. Pause
8. Raindown
9. Missing
10. In Wonder
11. All I See
12. Inside

Review

More Information:
Biography
Discography
Official Myspace
Official Website

Dream Command - Fire On The Moon - LP (1990), U.K.

To follow up on the previous post, here's an unforeseen oddity I've come across in my collection. Years ago, when my ex-girlfriend withdrew from our relationship, she left behind a small collection of vinyls she couldn't take. One of those were Dream Command's Fire On The Moon. Once the needle touched the groove on this record and my turn table started playing, I can immediately understand why.
There's a familiar sound to this album and the voice singing the cheesy lyrics: "This may come as a surprise, but I've got x-ray eyes..." is none other than Steve Fellows from The Comsat Angels! Reading behind the sleeve cover, confirms this and also reveals the rest of the CSA line-up Kevin Bacon (bass), Andy Peake (keyboards) and Mik Glaisher (drums) were involved.
It is unknown as to why the name change came to be for The Comsat Angels this time. They weren't under litigation from another delusional telecommunications company or other band bearing the same name. Perhaps they were trying to experiment how the market in the early 90's would react with the name change? Regardless of what the case may be, this album reveals The Comsat Angels' transition from their familiar post-punk/new wave sound into a more alternative rock oriented theme, but with unsatisfying results.
It's very difficult to convey my opinion about this album. After listening and really liking Chasing Shadows, Fire On The Moon left me feeling a bit uncertain and uncomfortable. There are some real stinkers in it and the only stand out tracks worth listening to are "Reach For Me", "Venus Hunter" and "Celestine".
Apparently, my feelings about this album aren't alone. According to sources, "the album was bounced back and forth between band and record company countless times, with neither party happy with the results". With no mutual agreement to be reached between Dream Command and Island Records, the album was "leaked" in limited quantities only in the U.S. and Holland. After this awkward affair, the band was subsequently dropped from the label, but fortunately this was not the end of The Comsat Angels. Review the album for yourself and see if you like it!

Details:

Dream Command - Fire On The Moon - LP (1990), U.K.

Side A:
1. Celestine
2. Whirlwind
3. Sleepwalking
4. Reach For Me
5. Ice Sculpture

Side B:
6. Venus Hunter
7. Phantom Power
8. Transport Of Delight
9. She's Invisible
10. Mercury

Review

More Information:
Official Myspace of Steve Fellows
Biography
Discography
Fan Page

The C.S. Angels - Chasing Shadows - LP (1986), U.K.

It's been quite a month for me, which is normally reserved for hiding indoors, yet I'm glad it turned into an unexpected and pleasant one. Before the end of the month quickly slips away, I'd like to briefly say that I've come a bit closer to my friends, reconnected with an old one and survived the "invisible" rapture.
Marching forth to the main agenda, here is Chasing Shadows by Sheffield, England's The Comsat Angels. After their brief time with Jive Records and unsuccessful album 7 Day Weekend, The Comsat Angels were without a label, until the late Robert Palmer, yes Robert "Simply Irresistible" Palmer approached and encouraged front man and guitarist Steve Fellows to sign with Island Records. In return for helping find a new label for the band, Robert Palmer is credited in the album as executive producer and did some vocal work for the song "You'll Never Know".
To explain the revised name, The Comsat Angels had to call themselves in the U.S. as The C.S. Angels, because a company named Communications Satellite Corporation (or COMSAT), believed the band infringed on their trademark. I found this rather bizarre and amusing since the name was originally taken from a short story by English writer, J.G. Ballard!
The album Chasing Shadows, to those who have heard it, is considered the band's return to form, reminiscent of the early Polydor Record years, à la Waiting For A Miracle, Sleep No More and Fiction. This is immediately noticeable in the dark, edgy opener "The Thought That Counts" along with "Under The Influence" and "You'll Never Know" with some mellow moments interspersed through out the album. Truthfully, I'd say this is one of The Comsat Angels' better albums, highly recommended and can be had for less than $10 (I acquired mine for $2!) on vinyl. Unlike the band's other releases, I found it mysterious and a bit depressing to see this one was left behind without a re-issue, but hopefully that'll change someday. Have a listen!

Details:

The C.S. Angels - Chasing Shadows - LP (1986), U.K.

Side One:
1. The Thought That Counts
2. The Cutting Edge
3. Under The Influence
4. Carried Away

Side Two:
5. You'll Never Know
6. Lost Continent
7. Flying Dreams
8. Pray For Rain

Review

More Information:
Official Myspace of Steve Fellows
Biography
Discography
Fan Page

Eyes Of God - The Dance Singles - Single (1985), U.S.A.

As I stated in my previous post, here's the next and possibly the last release Eyes Of God recorded in their brief stint in the independent San Francisco New Wave scene of the 80's. I'm disappointed to write to my amusement, this 12 inch single, is nothing more than an elaborate scheme conceived by their record label to fool the listener and quickly cash-in before anyone realized.
There are no "dance singles" or remixes of any sort to be found here, since all the songs were just ripped-off from their untitled release and stealthily packaged in a proper sleeve cover. The "Dub Mix" version of Sin Twist is EXACTLY the same as the one found in the EP release! It makes me wonder, if the members were aware of this nonsense and retaliated against their label by withdrawing in protest. With no concrete answers set forth by any of the band members or anyone else involved, we can only speculate the possibilities. Who knows? It could just have been an unforeseen mishap by the record label and the actual "dance singles" are probably hidden away in an old abandoned warehouse or someone's muddled closet waiting to be rediscovered.
Now that I'm exhausted from my spouting, here's the release. Remember, be sure to not pay any attention to the appended titles and just enjoy the music!

Details:

Eyes Of God - The Dance Singles - Single (1985), U.S.A.

This Side:
1. East Of Eden (Extended)

Over:
2. Garden Of Sin (Seductive Mix)
3. Sin Twist (Dub Mix)

Review

More Information:
Discography

Eyes Of God - Eyes Of God - EP (1984), U.S.A.

I'm happy to see spring is finally here, although the gloomy winter weather hasn't quite dispersed completely, I thought this was a good occasion for me to exhibit this particular band. Eyes Of God, from San Francisco, California, released only a scant few recordings during the mid 80's on the now non-existant Conceptual Communications / Conceptual Records label.
Eyes Of God were not only notable for their dark, wicked and seductive sound, but also how they intentionally (or unintentionally) try to appear enigmatic. They've done a good job thus far, since there's no information in the internet regarding what roles each member played, except what I could find on the back cover sleeve. The members were: Jennifer Hall (who obviously did vocals), Lew Karchin, Lawrence Doyle and John Scampoli. An extra individual, Roberto Oliveira did additional percussion work for the band, but who was the main percussionist?
One of the peculiar aspects of this band I have a penchant for were Jennifer Hall's sultry Siouxsie Sioux-like vocals, shallow bass lines and sinister saxophone sounds.
This self-titled album you'll be listening to shortly, is the second (or first?) release from Eyes Of God and was readily available back in 1984. There is another 12 inch release, which can be found on Goutroy's exceptional blog, A Viable Commercial. One more release exists out there and I'm excited to say that I have it and will be posting it shortly. Stay tuned!

Details:

Eyes Of God - Eyes Of God - EP (1984), U.S.A.

This Side:
1. Love Letters
2. Secret Life

Over:
3. Sin Twist
4. Cruel Party

Review

More Information:
Discography

Cetu Javu - Southern Lands - CD (1990), Germany

Listening and grooving to a flood of synthetic-driven beats lately, I stumbled upon a group from Germany who made a brief tenure creating Depeche Mode-inspired electronic music from the mid 80's until the early 90's. Cetu Javu, united in 1984 with Javier Revilla-Diez (vocals), Torsten Engelke (keyboards), Stefan Engelke (bass) and Christian Demere (synths and guitars). Todde Krass would later join to fill in for the departure of Stefan Engelke in 1988. As previously stated, Cetu Javu produced synthetic pop music which was obviously mimicking the sound of Depeche Mode, only the difference was that some of their songs were sung in Spanish and it's no wonder, since the vocalist is from Spain! I found it very surprising, considering there were a majority of German bands who preferred to sing in English.
Spinning furiously and with vigor like a hurricane, Cetu Javu were very productive in their output and released a vast of exceedingly catchy singles such as Help Me Now!, Situations and So Strange. But alas, like a hurricane, Cetu Javu didn't last long. In 1994, all members of the group adjourned on a high note from the music scene to focus on raising their offspring and continue on other endeavors.
Before signing off, here's their full-length debut album, Southern Lands, released in 1990 by ZYX Records, with two additional tracks (Fight Without A Reason and Adonde). It's a brilliant album, with notable highlights such as Words Without Thoughts, Get It and Have In Mind. I couldn't find a single stinker on this album and listeners who are in the habit of toe tapping and waving unusual hand gestures in the air will be pleased!

Details:

Cetu Javu - Southern Lands - CD (1990), Germany

1. Southern Lands
2. Love Me
3. Oye
4. Words Without Thoughts
5. So Strange
6. Get It
7. Situations
8. Bad Dreams
9. Have In Mind
10. Quien Lo Sabia?
11. Fight Without A Reason
12. Adonde

Review

More Information:
Unoffical Myspace
Discography

Breeding Ground - Revisited - CD (1994), Canada

Here is Breeding Ground's "best of" compilation album Revisited, released in 1994 by Fringe Product. This album is a compendium of the band's best songs from their modest discography, except for their self-titled EP, also known as Wintergarden (1982). To explain the absence of any selections from their first EP, front man John Shirreff brazenly stated in the liner notes, "It seems we've lost the master tape, a tragic loss or a blessing in disguise, it's hard to tell". Fortunately, Wintergarden can be found over at CAPA NOSTRA SYNDICATE's blog.
To fill in for the lack of songs, the two remaining tracks, Nocturne and Babel were included. Nocturne was a song taken from Shirreff's solo album In The Garden (1993) and Babel was a song impulsively recorded while the compilation was in between the selection and remastering process. My musings about the band, were previously written not too long ago and the post can be found over here.

Details:

Breeding Ground - Revisited - CD (1994), Canada

1. Tales Of Adventure
2. Reunion
3. This Time Tomorrow
4. Happy Now I Know
5. Epic
6. Love Rectangle
7. Slaughter
8. Business
9. Turn To Dust
10. Ceremony Of Love
11. Nocturne
12. Babel

Review

More Information:
Unofficial Myspace
Discography

Caifanes - Caifanes (Edición Especial) - CD (1993), Mexico

Hopping around to the next country to launch the first month of the new year, here's a group who are credited for being one of the most critical in helping make the Rock en Español (Spanish Rock) movement to go mainstream in Latin America during the late 80's and early 90's. Caifanes, formed in Mexico City, Mexico in 1987, included Saúl Hernández (vocals/guitar), Sabo Romo (bass guitar), Alfonso André (drums) and Diego Herrera (keyboards and saxophone).
Their self-titled debut album, also known as Mátenme Porque Me Muero (Kill Me, Because I'm Dying), which I'll be presenting, was originally released in 1988 on vinyl record and then re-released in 1993 on CD as a "Special Edition" package with two extra tracks. These two tracks are actually the singles La Negra Tomasa (The Black Girl Tomasa) and Perdí Mi Ojo de Venado (I've Lost My Deer Eye) released in 1989.
Truthfully, I think the addition of these songs ruin the overall atmosphere of the album, especially La Negra Tomasa, which is actually a cover of a fiercely popular cumbia song (I shamefully admit dancing to when I was young). Trying to mix a tropical dance song into a post-punk/new wave album is not something anyone should EVER attempt. My guess as to why they included it was so the label could capitalize on the major success the band was having at the time and including that particular song into the mix would generate more sales to a wider audience on an otherwise "dark" album.
Fans of The Cure, The Essence and the like, will love this album, despite the band's strong insistence in claiming they were more influenced by prog-rockers, King Crimson. Nevertheless, The Cure reference is very hard to ignore.

Details:

Caifanes - Caifanes (Edición Especial) - CD (1993), Mexico

1. Mátenme Porque Me Muero
2. Te Estoy Mirando
3. La Negra Tomasa
4. Cuéntame Tu Vida
5. ¿Será Por Eso?
6. Viento
7. Nunca Me Voy a Transformar en Ti
8. Perdí Mi Ojo de Venado
9. Amanece
10. La Bestia Humana
11. Nada

Review

More Information:
Official Myspace
Biography
Discography

Electronic - Electronic - CD (1991), U.K.

Happy Holidays! It's just hours before the end of the year and what better way to celebrate the end by listening to some twitch inducing music? Electronic, formed in 1988, was a joint effort between ex-Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr and singer/guitarist Bernard "Barney" Sumner from New Order. Guest musicians were also involved such as Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe from The Pet Shop Boys and Karl Bartos from German synth pioneers Kraftwerk. Electronic existed after the demise of The Smiths (Marr) and in between and during an extended absence from New Order (Sumner).
During that time, they released 13 singles, 3 full-length albums, and a compilation "best of" album (released in 2006). Electronic's sound represents only a fraction of the vast and creative nature of the Madchester scene going on in the U.K. at the time. Using a mix of analogue synths and guitars, they set out to make an impact with some successful singles such as Getting Away With It, Get The Message, and Second Nature.
For today's post, I'm introducing their self-titled debut album released by Factory Records. It's very obvious Electronic sounds very much like how New Order would sound if Peter Hook took a break from playing bass, but with Johnny Marr on guitar and helping out with writing some of the songs, the similarities become less obvious. Some notable tracks in this album include Tighten Up, Gangster, and Try All You Want. With the exception of Tighten Up, I was surprised that Gangster and Try All You Want weren't released as singles! I wasn't very fond of Getting Away With It, although it has a catchy chorus, it's a very cheesy song with somewhat awkward and simplistic lyrics. Well now, it looks like I've ran out of words,  excuse me while I'm off celebrating and anticipating the beginning of the new year!

Details:

Electronic - Electronic - CD (1991), U.K.

1. Idiot Country
2. Reality
3. Tighten Up
4. The Patience Of A Saint
5. Getting Away With It
6. Gangster
7. Soviet
8. Get The Message
9. Try All You Want
10. Some Distant Memory
11. Feel Every Beat

Review

More Information:
Biography
Discography
Fan Site

Gravity Pirates - This Way To The Cargo Cult - LP (1986), Australia

Originating from the land of down under, the home of wacky-haired Yahoo Serious and the subject of many over the top post-apocalyptic movies, arrives a band who are seldom mentioned and still remain off the radar of most people. Gravity Pirates from Sydney, Australia is a group shrouded in obscurity and will remain so until some more insight is revealed. I was a bit frustrated to find very little information beyond what is on the vinyl's sleeve cover.

The only notable things I could uncover is who all the members were involved while the band existed, the sparse discography (2 LP's) and a Myspace page (with just a grainy music video, music samples and a short magazine article). The people connected with the band were: Steven Hindes (guitar, vocals and piano), Sharon Van Tromp (vocals), Paul Hindes (keyboards), Alistair Stevenson (bass), Pierre Della-Putta (drums) and Keith Boots (drums).

This Way To The Cargo Cult, released in 1986 (not 1984, as the Amazon and iTunes download pages insist) by Survival Music, is quite a find and amazed it didn't go for as much as I'd expected it to go for online in physical form (I got mine for $8). Full of brooding sounds and murky vocals, Gravity Pirates' debut album is the type of music followers of the post-punk genre and the like shouldn't miss out on! The most outstanding tracks are the killer, head bopping opener This Way To The Cargo Cult and the slow, dark and ambient Backtrack. With respect to the artist, I've only put these two songs up for review since high quality remastered digital versions are readily available on Amazon and iTunes individually for 99¢ or the full album for about $7.
There's less than two months left before the year ends, so sit back, listen and bask in the sea of gloominess!

Details:

Gravity Pirates - This Way To The Cargo Cult - LP (1986), Australia

Side 1:

1. This Way To The Cargo Cult

2. Float So Wide

3. Backtrack

4. Frontal Attack

Side 2:

5. Exposure Of My Senses

6. Take My Time

7. Shape Of A Point Of View

Review

More Information:

Official? Myspace

Discography

iTunes (Buy and Download)

Amazon (Buy and Download)

Evening Legions - Evening Legions - EP (1986), France

The temperature is trickling, the leaves on the trees are metamorphosing and the distinct smell of fall is in the air. Happy October 2010! It's a bit sad, yet exciting to see another year nearly coming to a conclusion.
The recent change of scenery has provoked me to introduce Evening Legions. This particular group from France, were quite an astonishment for me. Astonishing, because I've never seen them mentioned along with their contemporaries such as Asylum Party, Little Nemo and Marc Seberg. Evening Legions is one of those bands that have a dark sounding name, yet their music (of what I could find) doesn't quite exactly match the description. These guys produced some very catchy new wave pop music with the lead singer sounding a bit like Nick Marsh from Flesh For Lulu. With this combination, you'd expect to listen to them on the radio, featured at the top of the charts and selling out records, but in reality this kind of recognition was not in their favor (though they were featured on the radio).
The lot behind Evening Legions were: Leaf Seale (guitar and vocals), Jean-Luc Vilgicquel (synth guitar), Pierrick Corzéame (drums), Flash (synths) and Pascal Obispo (bass), replacing Jaco Racotte who was previously on bass.
As I made repeated listens to their self titled EP, I kept wondering to myself: "Wow these guys could've been picked up by a major record label!" and "What ever happened to them?" While these thoughts were cycling through my mind, I rapidly searched for more information about them (the vinyl sleeve just wasn't enough) online. Fortunately, I was able to dig up a Myspace page which features a very short and brief summary about the band (in French), including 3 music videos (2 of which are live), a listing on Discogs and a small fan page. Enjoy this little gem!

Details:

Evening Legions - Evening Legions - EP (1986), France

Side A:
1. Your Dimension
2. Life On Earth

Side B:
3. Soft Silk Pillow
4. Affectionate Disturbances

Review

More Information:
Official? Myspace
Discography
Fan Site

The High - The Best Of The High - Compilation - CD (1997), U.K.

Another month comes and goes, but not without an update! Now that the weather is starting to cool off a bit in September, I have another band to share!

Sometime around the late 80's, Steve Diggle from Buzzcocks F.O.C. (Flag Of Convenience) decided to go back and reform the venerable pop-punk group Buzzcocks with Pete Shelly. The remaining members of F.O.C. which included Andy Couzens (guitar), Simon Davies (bass) and Chris Goodwin (drums) decided to reform a new group, but before doing so they had to recruit a vocalist. After a round of rehearsals for a lead singer, the group settled on John Matthews (formerly of Turning Blue) and christened themselves as The High.

In less than five years, the band signed on to a record label (London Records), released a few singles and two LPs (Somewhere Soon in 1990 and Hype in 1992) before calling it quits in 1993. Although their time together was short-lived, their music remains under appreciated to this day. Perhaps their trouble with success had something to do with the unfair comparison of The Stone Roses, the media quickly losing interest in the Madchester scene or people finally started sobering up on ecstasy. Whichever the case may be, The High deserve more recognition. The most notable aspect in The High's history, is they were one of the last bands who collaborated with renowned producer Martin Hannett before his death in 1991.

I'll admit The High do sound a bit like The Stone Roses, but the differences end there. They have an infectious jangly guitar sound I'm very fond of along with atmospherics and a bit of melancholy to round out their sound.

Here's their best of released in 1997, which for some odd reason is not really considered a cumulation of all their best work. Someone at their record label lazily put together their first LP with a single and called it "Best of", while ignoring their other releases and Hannett produced work (they even used the cover from the second LP!). For first time listeners this will have to suffice, but it's not a bad introduction to the band!

Details:

The High - The Best Of The High - Compilation - CD (1997), U.K.

1. Box Set Go

2. Take Your Time

3. This Is My World

4. Rather Be Marsanne

5. So I Can See

6. A Minor Turn

7. Dreams Of Dinesh

8. Up & Down

9. P.W.A.

10. Somewhere Soon

11. More

Review

More Information:

Biography

Discography

Fan Site

El Pecho de Andy - El Pecho de Andy - LP (1986), Spain

Here's another excellent Spanish band coming from the city of Toledo, Spain. El Pecho de Andy (The Chest of Andy) were a New Wave/Post-Punk group active during the mid to late 80's. Besides the names of the members involved and the albums they released (2 LP's and about 3-4 Singles), I couldn't find any further information about their whereabouts or why they split. The members were: Miguel Angel García (guitar and vocals), Francisco Javier García-Zarco (guitar), Miguel Angel Campos (drums), Arturo Soriano (saxophone) and María Eugenia "Maruge" Muñoz (bass). The sound of this band is very similar to The Psychedelic Furs with a saxophone playing in the background in a few of their songs, minus the Richard Butler-esque sounding voice. Enjoy listening to their first self-titled LP, while keeping cool under the hot summer sun!

Details:

El Pecho de Andy - El Pecho de Andy - LP (1986), Spain

Side One:
1. El Arrozal
2. Última Combinación
3. Vuelo Nocturno
4. A Años Luz

Side Two:
5. Anochecer En Tahiti
6. Brillan Tus Lágrimas
7. Fighting Temeraire
8. Morgana y Ginebra

Review

More Information:
Discography

Alice In A Nightmare - Alice In A Nightmare - LP (1988), Greece

I love surprises, especially the ones that shift my desolate frown into a grand smile instantly! This new gem I recently discovered comes from the small country of Greece, the birth place of Democracy, the Olympic games and the mighty Greek gods, just to name a few. Lately there's been some misconceptions surrounding the small, yet highly influential country both politically and economically. Greece has an interesting history, but I won't delve into these subjects and bore you all. I'd much rather talk about Alice In A Nightmare instead!

Obviously inspired by Lewis Carroll's Alice In Wonderland, Alice In A Nightmare emerged a few years a little late into the Greek New Wave/Post-Punk scene, but being first doesn't matter. What matters is the music these guys did was good! It's diverse and a bit quirky with many shades of genres mixed in together such as post-punk, synth pop, folk and a little funk (I can hear that slapping bass!).
The collaborators behind the music were Eli Aslanoglou (vocals), Nick Yeorgoulis (guitar and bass), Dimitris Carastamatis (electric piano, keyboards and synths) and Theodore Vlachakis (drums and synths). This was yet another band who should've gained some prominence outside of their home country, but didn't. After their first and only self titled LP (released by Virgin), the group disbanded mysteriously.

Details:

Alice In A Nightmare - Alice In A Nightmare - LP (1988), Greece

Side One
1. Under The Shadows
2. Shelter In My Dreams
3. Brother Night (Tonight)
4. Magic
5. I Walk Alone

Side Two
6. Tell Me Something
7. Alice In A Nightmare
8. My Love Is Calling
9. Yesterday

Review

More Information:
Discography

Blueshift Signal - Seven Natural Scenes - CD (1994), U.S.A.

With the current and ongoing worldwide explosion of shoegaze and dream-pop revival bands, here is one that shouldn't be left behind in the past. Blueshift Signal from Warwick, Rhode Island is a band that should've received a lot of recognition during the 90's along the likes of Slowdive, Lush and Pale Saints, yet for some unknown reason they didn't.

Formerly known as Grace Mansion, Blueshift Signal came together in 1993 with members Ron Kuba (guitar and vocals), his brother Mike (drums and keyboards), David Carpenter (drums and keyboards / not to be confused with the famous horror movie director!) and Kip (bass). After the departure of their bassist, Jay Bouchard would later fill in and help record Blueshift Signal's first album Seven Natural Scenes (1994). A few years since the release of their first album, the group began to diminish until only two members remained (Ron and Jay). During this brief period, they recorded songs for their EP titled Surround. Before Blueshift Signal finally called it quits in 1997, they were joined by John Orsi (drums) and released their last EP, Waterside.

Lush, ethereal and dream-like soundscapes are words which spring to mind when listening to Seven Natural Scenes. For those of you who are into this type of music, this is one album that will not disappoint and will make you comeback for repeated listenings!

Details:

Blueshift Signal - Seven Natural Scenes - LP - CD (1994), U.S.A.

1. Seven Natural Scenes

2. Acquiescence

3. Absolution

4. Between The Night & The Day

5. Beneath The Meadow

6. Highland Cathedrals

7. Oceans

8. Hehaka Olowan (For Mindy)

9. Flicker & Fade

10. The Secret Garden

Review

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Discography

Official Myspace

B.F.G. - Blue - CD (1990), U.K.

B.F.G. What does it stand for? I have no idea and they're definitely not related to the automotive tire brand. What I can tell you is they were an overlooked band during the crowded Manchester music scene during the 80's. B.F.G. was formed from the remains of Factory Records band Lavolta Lakota and discovered by Joy Division/New Order bassist Peter "Hooky" Hook. He helped the band out by letting them support New Order during their 1986 summer tour. During that year B.F.G. released their first 12 inch single Paris, which immediately sold out in a week!
The members of the band included many such as B. J. Williams (vocals), Mike Lambert (bass), Mike Simmi (drums and guitar), Acky (guitar), El Thomas (Samples), ex Chameleon Andy Clegg (keyboards and synths), Paul Batheran (guitar) and Steve Craig (vocals).
B.F.G.'s sound was originally filled with intense shrieking guitars, a throbbing bass line and lead by a low baritone voice (B. J. Williams). Comparisons were made to Joy Division at first, but when they released their EP Western Sky, their sound suddenly shifted towards sounding more like the Sisters of Mercy. By the time they released their first LP Fathoms (1988), they evolved into New Wave pop music.
For this post, I'll be presenting their second LP Blue (1990). B.F.G.'s Blue album sees them changing their music direction once again and this time they sound like an industrial/EBM band. The music isn't as intense as it was before and some of the beats are so-so, but there are some songs on here that would be great to play on any club dance floor!

Details:

B.F.G. - Blue - LP - CD (1990), U.K.

1. Love Grind
2. Anonymous
3. Switch
4. Gun Law
5. Myth Club
6. Eastern Eye
7. Brain Cage
8. Pulse
9. Monkey Block

Review

More Information:
Official Myspace
Attica Records
Discography

The Lavender Faction - Four Riffs For Joe - Maxi Single (1991), U.K.

I have a complete disdain for the train wrecks people keep listening to lately such as Ke$ha (how do you pronounce that!?), Justin Bieber and among others.
I don't mean to stomp on people's listening habits, I just think some of them need to go out and explore outside of familiar territory and embrace unknown sounds out there that exist outside of the typical mainstream outlets.
It brings me great relief to see there's been a resurgence of some good shoegaze / psychedelic rock bands for a few years now such as Ceremony, The Daysleepers and Ringo Deathstarr. I'm hopeful this new interest in the genre will bring in more listeners now than it did in the past.
The Lavender Faction (I like the name!) was a band who came from the U.K. in the late 80's or early 90's. They're undoubtedly from the shoegaze scene but got lost in between the likes of more popular groups such as The Jesus and Mary Chain, My Bloody Valentine and Ride. I think it might've been the low production quality of their recordings or maybe they were just poorly managed. Whatever the reason was, The Lavender Faction are worth a listen.
Finding any information for this group was very difficult as it usually is the case with these obscure bands. The only information I was able to find was their limited discography (In My Mind, Ride and Four Riffs For Joe) and the members (Geoff Suggett - vocals and guitar, Tony Pickering - vocals and guitar, Mark Patterson - bass and Andy Lee - drums) involved.
The material I'll be presenting here is from Four Riffs For Joe, released in 1991 by Lust Recordings. Four Riffs For Joe is a mix of indie rock with tinges of shoegaze. I think these guys could've gone further with developing their sound and making it noisier than what it currently was, but after the release of this maxi single the group disappeared.

Details:

The Lavender Faction - Four Riffs For Joe - Maxi Single (1991), U.K.

Side A
1. Crawl Down
2. Total Change

Side B
3. Haze
4. Was It You

Review

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Discography

Otras Voces - Soledad - EP (1989), Spain

Sorry for the long delay everyone! I've been very occupied lately with getting myself settled in my new area of residence and getting my belongings arranged (there are some things left I still need to unbox and organize!). I haven't forgotten about this little music blog and do not plan on letting it slide into oblivion. There's still too much to share and write about!
I'm very enthusiastic to introduce another great Spanish band and feel strongly against letting another gem slip past by English speaking audiences. I'm hoping I'll be able to change that!
Hailing from Manresa, Spain is a band named Otras Voces (Other Voices). The band members were Speedy (voice and guitar), Toni Holgado (bass), Joan Prat (drums) and Ricard Pradeli (guitar). The sound produced by this band is very reminiscent of other bands before them such as Joy Division, The Cure and The Chameleons. Obvious influences aside, they are more listenable and less somber sounding than Décima Víctima and less aggressive sounding than most other groups in the Spanish Siniestro scene at the time. Soledad (Solitude) is a very good EP and has been on my listening rotation as of late. Before the group dissolved, they recorded their first full length LP titled El Canto del Cisne (The Swan Song), but unfortunately it was never released. All that remains is this EP.

Details:

Otras Voces - Soledad - EP (1989), Spain

Lado A (Side A)
1. Flores Negras
2. Hombre Vulgar

Lado B (Side B)
3. Soledad
4. Silencio de Dolor

Review

More Information:
Unofficial Myspace