CD Review: Jubilee Riots' 'Penny Black'

Jubilee Riots
Penny Black
Self-Release

Jubilee Riots (formerly Enter The Haggis) is a Canadian band that brings Celtic and Scottish jam songs to the forefront in a swirling concoction of pop songs based on fan letters and stories. There are eleven songs on the album that are all different, but very memorable. The vocal chants, European charisma, and evocative lead vocals on "Astray" highlight the power of overcoming life's cruel world. "Two Bare Hands" opens with a folksy vocal line that blossoms into a power-pop medley of ear-friendly candy that is not too unlike Mumford & Sons and Paul Simon. "Trying Times" is an alt-rock song with soul, European, and dance elements. "Unsteady" is a classic song with great melody and rhythm and male and female vocals in a folksy setting. "Porch Light" is a twenty-second, alternative piano melody in a new age context. It serves a perfect half-way point thru the album. "Traveler" is a poignant guitar, horn, and percussion song with excellent vocals. Overall, Penny Black is littered with catchy lines, melodies, and rhythms without sacrificing quality. If you want great music--this is it. Anyone interested in alternative folk, pop, and European music will love Jubilee Riots. 5 Stars (out of 5) ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Ted Brown's 'An Unwide Road'

Ted Brown
An Unwide Road
Self-Release

New Zealand-native, Ted Brown, presents us with a country, alt-folk, and pop album that brings together a variety of influences on guitar, percussion, and strings. The candid vocals and witty lyrics are trademark folk compositions that are not steeped in traditional melodies and rhythms of Maori music. Instead, the recording is more akin to American folk music. Moreover, the vocals are in English and represent an earthy approach throughout the ten tracks. "Beginners Skin" opens with a few guitar chords and a pensive vocal medley. The song is rather laid-back and it does not vary too much. "Raining Roses" is a similar tune with a laid-back presence and emotive vocals that drift along. "Love Is.." is a poetic guitar tune with vocals akin to Paul Simon. The tune meanders along with light percussion and guitar accompaniment. "Blue And Grey" is another guitar tune with great vocals and a solitary guitar lead. There are back-up singers near the end of the song. Overall, Ted creates an engaging and thought-provoking album that does not disappoint. ~ Matthew Forss      

CD Review: Arlon Bennett's 'World Of Possibility'

Arlon Bennett
World Of Possibility
Self-Release

New York-native, Arlon Bennett is a songwriter, singer, and guitarist with a knack for classic Americana songs steeped in nostalgic settings and contemplative memories about life. Folk music is the primary genre showcased here. The vocals are a bit of James Taylor and the classic Americana songs of Fountains Of Wayne. The slight Paul Simon references are not too far from the truth throughout. "I America" is a harmonica-tinged and guitar-focused song with uppity choruses and harmonic backup vocals. Basically, it is America's soundtrack. "A Friend Of You" contains crisp guitar strums and punchy percussion. "Everything He Says" is an upbeat folk music anthem with catchy melodies and twangy resonances. There is a hint of country music driven by a folk music background. The music is also similar to the so-called 'country music' of contemporary Inuit music performers. Though, Arlon sings songs in English and about events, life, and family in America. Anyone with an interest in clear vocals, folk melodies, and a pop presence should find Arlon Bennett at the top of any listening list. Imagine the possibilities with Arlon Bennett. ~ Matthew Forss