Choice Cuts: October 2001
Artist: Bitch and Animal
Album: Eternally Hard
The Scoop: One of the latest offerings from Righteous Babe, featuring production from Ms. Difranco herself on half of the album. The songs bounce between frustration, outright rage and just plain silliness. It’s probably not coincidence that Ani’s Midas touch graces the album’s four best tracks. Animal’s djembe plays a prominent role throughout, while her pissed-off rap plays nicely with Bitch’s more traditional folk delivery.Highlight Track: For all the Pussy Revolution raging and ganja-fueled goofing, the stripped down “Traffic” is the best song on the album. It’s simple, stark and painful.
Honorable Mention: How can you go wrong with the hip-hop dildo salute “Best Cock on the Block”? You can’t. It’s a nice retort to the crotch-grabbing misogyny and thuggery of some well-known rap anthems.For More Info: Check out http://www.bitchandanimal.com or http://www.righteousbabe.com
Artist: Mark Mulcahy
Album: SmileSunset
The Scoop: The former lead singer for Miracle Legion has opened for Jeff Buckley and Oasis, and was once predicted to find that mainstream level of success himself. After some big label hassles, Mulcahy is flying solo with indie label Mezzotint. He is still known for his multiple-octave range, but SmileSunset is more restrained and leans more heavily on production and arrangement than mere vocal aerobics.Highlight Track: “The Way that She Really Is” is Mulcahy at his best, singing his near-falsetto over a mournful cello and hushed guitar.
Honorable Mention: “Resolution #1” starts with the question “Do you still want to have a baby?” But instead of turning into cheese or syrup, Mulcahy mines the situation for a lovely acoustic track that trembles with vulnerability.For More Info: Visit http://www.markmulcahy.com
Artist: Pete Krebs and the Kung Pao Chickens
Album: Hot Ginger and Dynamite
The Scoop: Pete Krebs is one cool guy. I mean, at least I hope he is. Because his music sure makes him out to be one. Playing a mixture of jazz and swing, Krebs and his Chickens stuff you in the time machine and knock you back to the Roaring Twenties. Loopy on moonshine, you’ll dance the fool night away.Highlight Track: Krebs and company work wonders with Leslie Warren’s “Wasting My Love On You.” The frontman’s smoky lead vocal seduces and the Chickens’ three-guitar, two-bass combination is as tight as they come.
Honorable Mention: “Fiso Place” is the kick-off instrumental, and it’s a humdinger. All in all, this is an album to lift your spirits.For More Info: Check out http://www.cavitysearchrecords.com
Latest Articles