The Donnas – The Donnas Turn 21
Teen angst, pop metal and an all girl band. What more do you need? The Donnas Turn 21 is an entertaining CD with great guitar riffs and attitude. The Donnas aren’t concerned with ending world hunger and the problems in Bosnia, they’re just looking to have fun and party, which is fine. They are just 21, after all. In a few years they’ll come out with their “serious” album, but in the meantime, crank up the speakers and enjoy their brand of grrl rock.
Web Link: http://www.thedonnas.com
Tim Easton – The Truth About Us
This is folk pop at it’s finest. Tim Easton weaves a musical tapestry made up of pop, country, rock and blues, and his lyrics tell the interesting story of a Midwestern boy in LA. Members of Wilco are Easton’s band on The Truth About Us, and features musical guests Victoria Williams and Mark Olson of the Jayhawks. Easton’s singing style is very conversational, and in it you’ll hear a little Dylan, a little John Prine and a little Sammy Llanas from the Bodeans. The combination of Easton’s voice, lyrics, and the variety of musical styles from his backing band make The Truth About Us one of those CDs you’ll find yourself listening to over and over.
Web Link: http://www.timeaston.com
Fisher – True North
Fisher is the first act to cross over from internet popularity to mainstream popularity. Like thousands of other groups, they posted their music in MP3 form on several different internet music sites. They were extremely popular and drew the attention of a San Diego radio station, which played “I Will Love You” and got huge response. Fisher was signed to a major label by this time, but because of the response to that song, their CD release was moved up by several months. True North is a showcase for Kathy Fisher’s beautiful voice, which is the reason Fisher was downloaded so many times. The songs are well produced, well written, melodic pop gems. Hopefully Fisher will pave the way for the many other talented groups waiting to be discovered in this new digital age of music.
