CD Review: A Is For Atom's 'Song For You'

A Is For Atom
Song For You
Self-Release

A Is For Atom is an electronic-pop venture by Mike Cykoski, which reinvents Brit-pop influences with spacey, electronica and breathtaking, melodic arrangements. Song For You is a six-track release with different elements constructed within each track that makes each one stand out. The reggae-tinged and cathartic track, "Bombs Away," contains a breezy melody, alt-pop elements, and great vocals throughout. "Load Up On Guns" opens with scratchy, electronic sounds and Owsley-esque vocals with a hint of British ambiance. A laser-like dance medley of keyboard and Moog synthesizer creates a spacey affect later on. Think of Action Figure Party with more pop constructions and synth-driven songs. "India" contains a bit of folksy and reggae-tinged music with a grungy-pop element that is both fun and diverse. Overall, A Is For Atom is so good here; I give it an A+ and 5 Stars (out of 5)~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: C.S. Crew's 'Funky Pack'

C.S. Crew
Funky Pack
Cultures of Soul

Funky Pack is a reissued album from the late 1970's group, C.S. Crew, which are based in Nigeria. There are nine tracks in all featuring some of the funkiest funk to ever come out of Nigeria. "Bread Power" is littered with funky beats and raw sounds that get the body moving. The growling vocals are mostly throaty, but some of the vocals are a little lighter. The music is produced from drums, gonga, bass, guitar, alto sax, tenor sax, trombone, trumpet, moog, and string synth. "Doin' The Good Thing" continues in the funky vein with throaty vocals and fluid bass-lines for a truly aural fixation. The ballad-esque, "Living Together," cements the group's reputation for creating reflective tunes with funk, rock, and blues all rolled into one, satisfying concoction. Afro-funk fans will love C.S. Crew's reissue, but anyone with an interest in Nigerian music will love it. African music rules! ~ Matthew Forss