Choice Cuts: July 2003

quite lovely, perhaps the musical equivalent of the term "space out."

Highlight Tracks: "Into Forever" and "Beacons"

For More Info: Visit http://www.morrmusic.com

Artist: PINE MARTEN

Album: Beautiful Stakes and Power Poles

The Scoop: A funny thing happened on Pine Marten's way to the forum held in my closet for the many rejected, unreviewed discs I receive. On the sixth listen, after thinking I was disappointed that the album didn't quite live up the standards set by their like-minded sonic cousins Earlimart and Panty Lions (those standards being the main reason the album stuck around long enough to get a sixth spin), the album reached out and grabbed me by the brain. The album was recorded at The Ship, the de facto base camp for the aforementioned bands that is swiftly on its way to becoming something of a Mecca in lo-fi indie-rock circles. Whereas Panty Lions rely on a dime-store nylon-stringed guitar for a signature sound, Pine Marten relies on a dime-store Casio keyboard. Not surprisingly for a band that instills hope for a fruitful indie-future, they lean heavily on the halycon days of the indie-past. Singer Mark Wooten brings to mind J Mascis and the prominent bursts of repetitive chords and esoteric lyrics ("I forget that we live on a planet / Sometimes") continue on a proud tradition forged by luminaries like Pavement and Sonic Youth.

Highlight Tracks: "Bedroom Meteorologist" and "The Sequel"

For More Info: Check out http://www.the-ship.com/pinemarten/audio...

Artist: TONI LYNN WASHINGTON

Album: Been So Long

The Scoop: Dubbed Boston's Queen of Blues, Toni Lynn Washington draws on the power of some all-time queens for her latest offering, Been So Long. The mission here, as stated in the liner notes, is to offer "a reinterpretation of classic blues songs to honor the feminine spirit." By tackling songs previously visited by the likes of Nina Simone and Ma Rainey, Washington illustrates the timeless appeal of the material - while the historical context has changed radically, and changed on many levels, the power hasn't been drained from the songs. Washington retains her social consciousness without losing a grip on her sexuality and sass, a feat harder than it may seem. There's something for everyone here-from gospel to smooth jazz to the bawlin' blues-and the veteran vocalist is backed by a snappy band led by Duke Robillard (Fabulous Thunderbirds).

Highlight Tracks: "Everyday Will Be A Holiday" and "It's Love Baby (24 Hours

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