Flaco Rodriguez – ‘Ultimamente Solo Hablo de Ti’ (Self-Released)

Flaco Rodriguez – ‘Ultimamente Solo Hablo de Ti’ (Self-Released)

YouTube rabbit holes pay dividends again. One night I received a notification that Camila Fernandez had released a new song and decided to see what else I might find. One of the discoveries was the song ‘Hey Marina’ (more on it later) by Flaco Rodriguez and Querida Margot (another highly recommended band) which I listened to probably ten times that night. I then wanted to see what else each of these bands had out there on YouTube. This self-released album by Flaco Rodriguez would appear after maybe a month with a collection of previously released and new songs. While it is not our usual music here (if we have a usual type of music here), I think there are lots of elements here that can appeal to fans of Jesse Malin’s solo work, Johnny Thunder’s acoustic albums, and just high-quality music in general. I don’t have a lot of details about the band I can share other than they are from Spain, but let’s dig into this recommended album.

The lead track ‘Todos Nos Rodea’ is an acoustic soft rocker that includes both sung and spoken word vocals. The song provides a nice opening to an album filled with some diverse sounds. The bluesy groove of ‘Soy un Rodriguez’ increases the tempo a little bit and features some tasteful guitar work, female backing vocals, and a nice catchy hook. Up next is one of my favourites from the album, ‘Ciudades, Garitos, Altares’ is a dynamite acoustic number with co-lead vocals by the delightful Monica Morado. The harmony and melody in the vocals work perfectly together. Again, I think the song could have snuck onto a Thunders album as an all-acoustic number. It provides a great build in the album as it probably ranks in my top three songs on the album.

Coming back to ‘Hey Marina’ now, the song takes on more of a rock ‘n’ roll feel that brings to mind the likes of the Rolling Stones, a catchy midtempo Tyla song, or again a Thunders song. It has a build in the music and turns into a glass in the air, put your arm around a person beside you, and all sing along quality. Querida Margot brings their rock influences to the forefront. The horns add an even more festive feel to the song. Wrapping up the first half of the album, ‘El Parque’ returns the album to an acoustic feel that features some nice subtle percussion. It’s easy to see someone sitting on a porch or out by a campfire singing this one.

The second half of the album begins with ‘Perdon por Anticipado’ where the band spends the first half of its under three-minute length as another acoustic number before it gets a shot of rock and swagger and then mellows back out for the close. ‘Que No Hay Que Trabajar’ could slip into a spaghetti western where we see the horses racing across a tumbleweed filled mesa with the slowed down spoken word parts being flashback scenes. ‘Mientra Tu Estes Aqui’ is a slow acoustic Spanish ballad that fits nicely within the album. The trumpet works perfectly in the mix.

‘Donde Esta el Teatro?’ gets us close to the finale with a great shuffle and catchy chorus. Diego Rodriguez’ vocals across the album work great with the different songs across the album with this one’s genuineness and sincerity being no exception. Closing the album is my 2nd favourite on the album. ‘Adios, Tomas’ would not be out of place on a Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers or Refreshments album. The harmonica adds a great element to a song packed with a chorus crafted from catchy goodness. As in a few of the other songs, there are some spoken words in the song as well. These are really utilized in a similar manner to what Hanoi Rocks did on the ‘Two Steps from the Move’ album where the songs would feel incomplete without them. At well over five minutes, it also provides an epic finish to an album that only reaches just over 35 minutes.

For those looking to break up their normal listening, I recommend giving this one a chance. My Spanish is not great, so I continue to dig deeper into the lyrics and try to remember all of the Spanish I have learned over the years. ‘Hey Marina’ served as the perfect first song for me to hear because of its rock feel and singalong chorus. I hope there is eventually a video for ‘Adios, Tomas’ as it deserves a chance in the spotlight. This album keeps staying in my listening rotation. While you are checking this one out, I recommend giving the new single and debut album by Querida Margot a spin as well.

Ultimamente Solo Hablo de Ti’ is available now.

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Author: Gerald Stansbury  

Episode 61 – the Podcast Goodbye David Johansen

Episode 61 – the Podcast Goodbye David Johansen

Theres only one place this week’s episode could start and that’s paying tribute to the legend that was David Johansen. In tribute, we indulge ourselves with ‘Some Hearts’ he recorded for the Johnny Thunders tribute album followed by ‘Showdown’ from the Dolls second album then ‘Funky But Chic’ from Davids Solo outing that the Dolls recorded a version of on their final album. But before we bow out we play ‘Coz I Said So’ from the second incarnation of the Dolls and the album of the same name. Rest In Peace David.

On a brighter note this week’s episode we have a tonne of new songs starting with some garage rock with plenty of bubblegum power pop courtesy of The Peawees and their new single ‘Don’t Look Back’. The band travel to the US for some dates in April to knock out plenty of tracks off their Spaghetty Town Records Album.

If one Spaghetty town artist isn’t enough then get ready because the Ravagers have a new LP on the way as well as a mega European Tour so it seems only right that we bring you their new single ‘Right To Kill’ before the New Record “On the Loose” is out on April 5th.

Hold onto your blowse ladies and Gentlemen because we follow that up with the new song from Crymwav ‘Scene Of The Crime’. The Band heads across the pond to play a show in ole London Town.

More new songs next – firstly it’s The Vapors with the opening track from their brand new album ‘Wasp In A Jar’ the track is entitled ‘Hit The Ground Running’ after a 35-year hiatus, the band are back and sounding fantastic I’m sure you’ll agree. Hot on the heels is ‘No Homo’ courtesy of Lambrini Girls from their debut album ‘Who Let The Dogs Out’.

Warrior Soul and ‘Pigs’ gets an airing due to the current political climate and the fact the Orange Potus is never out of the news at the moment and Korey isn’t afraid of speaking his mind so ‘Pigs’ from ‘Destroy The War Machine’ seems apt. Watching video footage of Jesse Malin going through his rehab was heartwarming and great to see. It made me crack open the D Generation vault so a demo version of ‘Sweet Talker’ seems like a good idea at this point. What a band they were/are.

Dead Boys guitar slinger Cheetah Chrome once did a solo album called ‘Solo’ and on it he recorded a track called ‘East Side Story’ with special guest was Sylvain Sylvain so this was a great time to play it.

Real Sickies have new music available ‘Should Have Seen It Coming’ from their new LP ‘Under A Plastic Bag’ – a RPM Online debut for these Canadian punks and a welcome track to play. The album is coming out on Stomp Records. More new music next in the shape of Human Toys outta Paris France. If you’re quick you can grab the track and the album it comes from off of their Bandcamp page Here.

One of the show’s favourite bands has to be the awesome shrinking violets the Dwarves who bring ‘Astroboy’ to the party and a review is incoming as they release a classic live-in-the-studio LP for RSD next month ‘Blood Guts And Pussy’ was the era in question. Awesome – short but oh so sweet.

A quick turnaround of The Strains with the A side of their new single ‘Running The Lines’ I do believe they are currently on tour with Handsome Dick Manitoba. Another RPM debut is this classic from US Bombs ‘We Are The Problem’ followed by the last banger The Clash recorded ‘Know Your Rights’ which seems like a timeless track to air in 2025.

The DeRellas are back and their new LP is almost upon us. WE aired the new single a few weeks ago and have since heard the finished album so now seems like a great time to play the title track ‘Trust Me This Is Gonna Hurt’. out Friday 28 March 2025! have you ordered your copy? hit that link.

The penultimate track this week is from a live download courtesy of Catbite and Laura Jane Grace covering the awesome Operation Ivy and the classic ‘Sound System’ a secret Riot Fest Afterparty at The Empty Bottle in Chicago, IL. Available via the hyperlink from Bandcamp it’s now available for pay-what-you-can with 100% of the proceeds going to help those affected by the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires. The money will be split 50/50 between the following two organizations:

www.sweetrelief.org/naturaldisasterfund.html and bestfriends.org/emergency-response/los-angeles-wildfires#:~:text=Make%20a%20gift%20to%20Best,in%20the%20Los%20Angeles%20area

The final track this week is another cover and pretty much putting a full stop on this week’s opening artist David Johansen and the interesting cover from Sonic Youth of the New York Dolls Classic ‘Personality Crisis’ one of the most covered songs ever after we played the version from Teenage Fanclub recently this seems fitting this week who knows maybe next week we’ll crack open the Joan Jett version of the song. Rest In Peace David and thanks for the music. Be kind to each other and play nice catch you next week fo more rock and roll. Keep it RPM Online.

Brian James (18 February 1955 – 6 March 2025)

Brian James (18 February 1955 – 6 March 2025)

To say I’m gutted would be an understatement. The music of The Damned and then subsequent bands and artists Brian played with have had a massive impact on my music over the decades from the first time that Damned Damned Damned was passed over the back wall of my house upon its release to listen to from a kind neighbour who thought I was ready for a lifetime of music for pleasure and boy was he right. In fact, I still have the chewed BASF cassette on which it was recorded (I could never bring myself to throw it away). I was hooked, when Brian left the Damned I was shocked as a young lad could be at the time (remember this is pre-interweb and all things digital) it might have been weeks when I read it in Sounds or NME. Brian and I had moved on I guess but years later I would hear his playing on the Lords Of The New Church and we were once again reunited in music and this time I was older and (maybe) wiser. I made scrapbooks of the clippings and followed his career and kept hoping for a Damned reunion so I could get to see that original line up but until then the Lords would do very nicely thank you very much.

I once tricked my then girlfriend (now Wife) into attending the Lords show in the Astoria to see Brian at work not knowing it was the infamous night when Stiv sacked the band again I had to find out the following week in the printed press again I was gutted but hey maybe it was a sign and the original Damned would do their thing.

Photo by ITV/Shutterstock (826741qm)

Fast forward a few years and I would get my wish but I was much older then and appreciated many versions of the Damned and their music and the guys in the band. when CDs were a thing I got my first Discman just so I could buy Brian’s first solo album an album that I loved for its rawness and his mesmeric style of recording his guitar as loudly as possible as he weaved his magic through the speakers. Be it as a solo artist or in a band of brothers like when he teamed up with Wayne Kramer on Racketeers or was in the Lords I always kept coming back for more. I loved the mystery that still surrounded the guy, unassuming even when he turned up to play in a pub in the South Wales Valleys he got changed in the pool room and seemed quite happy to blend in.

I always wanted to interview him but kept finding a reason to chicken out because I was properly star struck which is daft really because I knew he’d possibly be my favourite interview and I’d happily admit to fanboying on his catalogue of work. Having only just found out of his passing and I can’t imagine what his wife and son are feeling now as just a fan I’m gutted I won’t be able to see him play loudly again as I loved the Damned reformed shows of a few years ago and it looked like they finally made some kind of peace together which was great to see. Brian still had the chops and alongside the Brian and Rat shows with Texas Terri Bomb or the Lords Of The New Church I always loved hearing his music be it full-on garage punk rock n roll or the Acoustic mellow songs he did with Mark Taylor.

Brian James was a pioneer. Undisputable fact. He was a trailblazer and one of the coolest guitar slingers to have ever walked Gods Green Earth. He played with Iggy He made some awesome albums with Stiv not many had a career as amazing as he did and his sound will live on after all of us have joined him into the next life. I’m sure there will be people who knew him well and worked with him who will write far better obituaries about the legend than I could ever muster but until then, Rest In Peace Brian James You Absolute legend.

The Huntingtons – ‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! Renacido!’ (Burnt Toast Vinyl)

The Huntingtons – ‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! Renacido!’ (Burnt Toast Vinyl)

The Huntingtons, from Maryland, have been around for over three decades now but perhaps a little bit of history is needed as they have never really broken through to the mainstream. My first listen to them would have come back around 1997 with their ‘Fun and Games’ album. At that point, the main influence would have been the likes of the Queers or Screeching Weasel. One of the songs that grabbed me was a cover of the Ritchie Valens hit ‘Come On, Let’s Go’ which kept me coming back to the album and songs like ‘Alison’s the Bomb’ and ‘Losing Penny’ became band staples. The band would then quickly morph into a heavily influenced Ramones style band that has stayed with them over the years. In that time, they have released Ramones cover albums and numerous studio albums that have ranged from good to excellent. The band signed with Tooth and Nail Records early in their career, which unfortunately isolated them a bit from the mainstream, because the label was associated mostly with Christian bands. There has never been any gospel flavor to the band though, and they will say they are not a Christian band. Tooth and Nail did have a sizable reach for an independent label and worked with the band for many years.

About 25 years ago, the band released two full-length albums close together with the ’Plastic Surgery’ album including one of my favourite songs by them ‘Heartbreak at the Hardy Holly.’ The other ‘Get Lost’ contained another long-time favourite in ‘I’m Not Going Downtown.’ These excellent albums could have been future Ramones albums after ‘Adios Amigos’ and received a ton of play in my CD player. The band has continued to release albums over the years, but the reality of day jobs and responsibilities has reduced their output and the number of shows they play. Some things have not changed though including songs set in the world of the ‘Back to the Future’ movies that are extremely catchy. Back in 2020, the band released ‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol!’ for the first time. The band had written a bunch of excellent songs and nailed them in the studio. Unfortunately, the mix on the album just didn’t work well. It was an album that I liked, but it just felt off sonically. The band played fewer and fewer songs from it and realized it needed a remix after releasing an EP that sounded significantly better. Flash forward to today, the band has released the ‘reborn’ version which has greatly benefitted the album and finds me now playing it on repeat.    

The band holds tight to its Ramones stylings with Mikey still channeling Joey’s spirit. The first song ‘Too Old to Care’ kicks the album into gear with a sticky chorus that like many of their songs over the years includes some ‘woo ooh yeahs’ in the chorus. The band provide a nice nod to Iron Maiden in the CJ styled ‘The Slammer.’ The album really shines in this new lease on life. ‘Say Hi to Your Mom for Me’ provides another song for ‘Back to the Future’ in a stomper that lasts just over a minute and reminds me of their old song ‘Dies Saugt.’ ‘Be With You’ delivers a killer chorus using very few words but delivers them cleverly and catchily. The guitar work by Cliffy and Jonny hits the spot here and across the whole record.

The band has stretched out a bit as well with ‘Innocent’ stretching out to almost 4 minutes with an unexpected bridge that slows the song down from its mid-tempo beat and then returns to full strength in a way that makes the song more powerful in its use of dynamics. ‘Not Penny’s Boat’ delivers the goods and the unexpected bonus acoustic version works well too. The words in the chorus won’t all connect with you at once, but they will in time as the main version is a favourite among favorites here.

Lyrically, the band cover many facets of life. ‘Things Are Gonna Get Better’ provides a shot of optimism and hope in the dark times in life. As my Dad is struggling, it feels like the band is singing to me. ‘Liar’ provides another great hook in the chorus while addressing the deceitful people in our lives. Old album closer ‘I Don’t Wanna Die Alone’ provides a slower anthem that feels a bit like the Ramones ‘I Wanna Live’ and addresses something most of us have probably felt at some point in our lives. Mikey (bass) and Chris (drums) really create a great groove in the song.

I didn’t touch on all the songs, but there are no weak spots here now. This reborn version of the album has really helped save these songs from simply fading into the band’s catalogue as an afterthought. The added cover of ‘The Breakup’ provides another nice bonus. If you have never checked out the band, this isn’t a bad starting spot. Their run of albums from ‘High School Rock’ through ‘Songs in the Key of You’ would be where I would go next, but that is probably just personal taste for me as the recent live album ‘Ciao Italia! Live at Punk Rock Raduno 5’ is also highly recommended. This album? Revitalized, Reborn, and Recommended Listening!

‘Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! Renacido!’ is available now.

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Author: Gerald Stansbury

The Vapors – ‘Wasp In A Jar’ (Red Chuck Records)

The Vapors – ‘Wasp In A Jar’ (Red Chuck Records)

“Life, you just can’t odds it, can you?”, as a certain fictional barman of Brentford was fond of saying (hello, Robert Rankin). So, here in 2025, we welcome the fourth studio album by The Vapors. Yes, you heard that right. 2020’s ‘Together’ saw a record-breaking 39 years between albums, and perhaps it passed you by due to its release coinciding with the pandemic. Which is a shame, because it’s a belter.

‘Wasp In A Jar’ is even better. If you loved the debut album, the sound is immediately recognisable, not just due to Dave Fenton’s vocals, but also the subtle melodies that get under your skin after the first play. So, we have 14 new tunes to revel in, starting with ‘Hit The Ground Running’, which would sit nicely on the debut. Let’s face it, no one wants The Vapors to change their style. Fenton’s voice hasn’t changed at all, which is a joy to hear, and it certainly sounds like a single.

‘The Human Race’ follows suit, you feel like you already know the chorus, and ‘Forever And Ever’ proves this wasn’t a fluke. A spiky love song, “You’re my porcupine, always be my valentine, you’re my wasp in a jar…”. ‘Miss You Girl’ hooks you from the opening bass line, and the chorus is as simple as you could get away with, yet it’s perfect. What can I say? This album is as welcome as finding a forgotten twenty-pound note in your winter coat and much less likely. Yet, here we are.

‘Decompression’ adds a bit more clout, riff-wise, melded to another memorable chorus, where the guitars chime. ‘Carry On’ has all the hallmarks of classic Vapors, that lovely, clipped rhythm guitar, before it opens up, a song of hope. ‘Nonstop Radio’ deserves radio play, if only. I’m sure Uncle Dom will find space for a couple of tracks on the righteous RPM podcast…

‘Nothing Can Stop Us Now’ is their “us against the world” song, and ‘Look Away Now’ is perhaps the most beautiful song here, delicately yearning. I don’t know how long it took them to write these songs, but they’ve hit a purple patch, whether it’s ‘Proud’ or ‘It Gets Better’. This album was crowdfunded, and it’s clear that the band have made every effort to pay back their fans with quality tunes and modern production. If you’re already a fan, whatever your age, get your ears around this. It’s a gem.

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Author: Martin Chamarette

RPM Online -The Podcast -Episode 60 – The gruesome twosome

RPM Online -The Podcast -Episode 60 – The gruesome twosome

It’s only Rock n Roll but We like it. Another day another episode of the RPM Online Podcast with another dozen and some of the finest alternative rock n roll available to own. This week is no exception as we endeavour to bring you the finest new old borrowed and blue tunes available so why not start with an absolute banger courtesy of Los Pepes and a track off their brand new album ‘Out Of The Void’ which will be out in April.

Hot on the heels is The Hell with a brand new track off their five-track EP this lovely ditty is ‘Circle The Drain’ available to the finest record label in the UK Drunken Sailor Records who are unrivaled in releasing excellent music on a consistent basis.

Out of Richmond Virginia Dead Billionaires are up next with their melting pot of alternative rock and the track ‘Curb’ of the wonderfully named ‘Disaster Preparedness Colouring Book’. Hot on the tail is some punk rock from The Squirts ‘Barbed Wire’ from ‘Men and Their Masters’. Staying with some classic punk jump on The Extraverts and ‘Marilyn Monroes Eyes’ Snotty stuff from their ‘Supple’ LP the first band we’ve featured from the superbly named Saskatchewan.

How about two legends teaming up for some motherfuckin Rock n Roll? Frank Meyer and Eddie Spaghetti with a track off their collaborative LP that went under the radar but if you love The Strretwalkin Cheetahs and Supersuckers then this is a no-brainer.

It’s the first of two tracks from these lifers on the show today because we like to bring you the finest music we’re currently playing and this is on heavy rotation currently so get on it.

Hitting the shores of Shit Island soon is the finest double bill anywhere as the Descendents and Circle Jerks give us a one-two. with a classic from ‘Milo goes To Collage’ with ‘I’m Not A Loser’ and followed by Circle Jerks from their oddities and rarities album ‘I Wanna Destroy’.

As we like to connect the dots of awesome Rock n Roll this week we bring you The Mattless Boys with ‘ It Only Hurts When I Cry’ followed by Black Eyed Sons and the title track from their debut album ‘Cowboys In Pinstripe Suits’ featuring Joe Elliott from that there Def Leppard. Then rounding off the trio is a classic from Mott The Hoople and the single edit of ‘Golden Age Of Rock and Roll’. ‘Dirty Laundry ft Honest John Plain and Ian Hunter along with Darrell Bath. Joe Elliott sang on Ian Hunter’s last pair of solo albums and guests on Black Eyed Sons.

Another week another track from down under and Split System and their new single is a particular favourite for us so here’s the other track on the single.

Billy Idol is back with a new album and single so with some spit and polish Young William is here with his new single off the album ‘Still Dancing’. The album ‘Dream into It’ will be out on April 25th. it features guest slots from the likes of Joan Jett and Avril Lavine.

Another Australian band and debut for us is The States with the track ‘Gimme Joy’ their first single on Legless Records. Melbourne Australia is certainly a hot ed of rock n roll and long may it continue.

Cast your minds way back in time when Punk exploded there were many forms of expression from the Damned and The Clash to America and Australia it was far-reaching and style-wise it didn’t have boundaries and that’s what it was all about which is why artists like Patrik Fitzgerald was able to flourish and his most popular track would probably be ‘Safety Pin Through My Heart’ so now seems like a good time to take a left turn and air some anti-folk which was released on Cherry Red Records a few years ago as part of a double album compilation.

Another throwback would have to be from The Accelerators who offer up ‘Moving Fast; from their collected recordings 77-79. Back for another go is a track by Meyer and Spaghetti this time from the ‘Partners In Crime’ EP which features tracks that didn’t make the cut of their LP but its too good to miss out. simply superb.

Prophets Of Addiction get aired next with a track off their new LP ‘Face The Music’, ‘Walk The World’ is the latest offering from the glam punks.

As we head into the home straight we hit you with a one, two firstly from No Spoilers with the track ‘Ghosting’ from their LP. Yet more punk rock from Italy via the excellent Label ‘Take The City’ from Madrid Spain.

then if that’s not enough how about a classic track with a twist courtesy of the mighty Motorhead. ‘Ace Of Spades’ is their most famous track but how about hearing one of the early versions they laid down before capturing the classic take. Available first on the RSD vinyl of ‘Remorse No’ LP which has now been pressed on CD.

Finally bringing Episode 60 to a magnificent climax we play ‘Be A Sport’ by Split Dogs off their brand new LP ‘Here To Destroy’ easily one of the albums of the year and it’s barely March. Exceptional stuff I’m sure you’ll agree. With only nine tracks it’s a lean Rock n Roll machine with no filler just top-notch punk rock n roll.

If you enjoy the tunes we play give us a share and a follow it’s much appreciated and helps spread the word further and it doesn’t cost you anything either. Keep the revolutions spinning and keep it RPM Online. Diolch.

Ming City Rockers – ‘Clementine’ (Self Release)

Ming City Rockers – ‘Clementine’ (Self Release)

One of the most anticipated albums of 2025, two years on from ‘Lime’, I am very happy to have ten, new tunes from Ming City Rockers still ringing in my ears. There’s a lot of love for the Immingham trio here at RPM headquarters. Welcome to ‘Clementine’…

You should already be acquainted with the opening two songs, ‘I’d Like To Assist You (But My Head’s Too Small) and ‘Oh My God’, which set the tone nicely. Like the bastard offspring of Pete Shelley, they have a way with a simple, effective tune and catchy melodies, rather than overindulgent solos.

‘Plastic Recycling Facility’ continues their fine line in addictive “la, la, la” choruses. I first saw them at Rebellion festival in 2015, they were great then, and have gone on to hone their sound. ‘Seven Ate Nine’ is like an acerbic nursery rhyme, and ‘Window’ zips by in just under two minutes, complete with wonky keyboards.

‘Pounds And Ounces’ is even shorter, but you’re not being short changed, cause you’ll be playing it again and again. Believe it or not, ‘Blood In My Socket’ is even shorter, advert length but equally memorable, while ‘I Wanna Find A Way So I Don’t Feel Like Me Ever Again’ is reminiscent of The Only Ones. You can’t begrudge short songs when the tunes are this good.

‘Bad Luck Machine’ ups the volume and vitriol to pleasing effect. It’s easy to forget that some groups work and study whilst writing, recording and playing live. Obviously, making a living from your art is virtually impossible nowadays, but nevertheless they deserve credit for making music that is as good as its influences. ‘10, 3 Of 4’ sees Morley take lead vocals and the sound expand, showing that the band aren’t stuck in a corner, sonically speaking. It’s actually quite beautiful.

I missed out on owning a copy of ‘Lime’ as it sold out. I won’t be making the same mistake this time, and neither should you. Get your preorder in, you deserve it, as do Ming City Rockers.

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Author: Martin Chamarette

Tyla J. Pallas ‘Gilding the Lily’ (King Outlaw/ Cargo)

Tyla J. Pallas ‘Gilding the Lily’ (King Outlaw/ Cargo)

Tyla has soundtracked about 37 of my 51 years here on Earth. For me, it all started with ‘In the Dynamite Jet Saloon’ by the Dogs D’amour. The first time I heard them was a life-changing experience where the band resonated deep in my soul through their songs and music. I still vividly remember the moment. Over the years, Tyla has continued to create a catalogue of songs that I can tie to specific moments in my life. I am not sure what the total number of releases between the bands and his solo work currently is. I might need to do a count after writing this review since it will take a while and may require a calculator. Over the past few years, Tyla has continued to strike gold for me with the Balladmongrels and the latest version of Dogs D’amour where he has incorporated some new elements in the likes of ‘Tree Bridge Cross,’ magical acoustic moments like ‘Ghosts,’ and bluesy diamonds like ‘Serpents Kiss.’ After 40 plus years of writing and performing, the perceived expectation is often musical artists cannot continue to develop and expand. With Tyla, there has always been an ability to blend the familiar with some new tricks. I think back to the acoustic brilliance of his first self-release ‘Nocturnal Nomad’ which is another of my all time favorite albums. Why have I dragged on and on about all this? ‘Gilding the Lily’ showcases new twists into Tyla’s sound but also recalls magical moments from his musical past.

Tyla has described this as a ‘guitar album,’ and there is definitely an abundance of lead guitar across these 18 songs with Jamie Turnbull providing plenty of opportunities to break out an air guitar in a way that I have not done since the likes of the ‘Girl Behind the Glass’ and ‘Rollover.’ Ironically, the album starts off with one of a couple of songs that have not totally grabbed me in ‘Baptism of Fire.’ It has grown on me with each listen, but there is some vocal repetition that can distract from what is going on musically. There is great piano work in the song, and it does start the album off with a rocking feel. ‘Cadillac Man’ is another upbeat rocker with some excellent lead guitar weaved through the song. As the lead single from the album, it is an inspired choice. This is prime material that would be just as home back on ‘Errol Flynn’ as it is here and still sounds fresh. The backing vocals are excellent as well. Next up is another of my favourites in ‘Glory Days.’ This is an acoustic rocker that recalls ‘Nocturnal Nomad’ or ‘In Life In Love In Dreams.’ The strings provide great depth to the song, especially the violin that breaks up that first chorus from the second verse. Tyla’s vocals here are outstanding. The electric guitar provides great accents to the song and provides some brief tasteful air guitar moments as well.

The title track slows things down for another stellar vocal performance. Musically, it would not be out of place on ‘The Life and Times of a Ballad Monger’ or ‘A Graveyard of Empty Bottles.’ The mix allows each instrument space to breathe and paint the musical canvas. We return to more rockers with ‘Gunfight’ opening with a lot of electric guitar and musically akin a little bit to the ‘Bloody Hellfire’ album. It is noisy and hopefully has an opportunity to shine in the live setting. Writing this, it dawns on me that this one and ‘Baptism of Fire’ might have been swapped if I did the sequencing. ‘Killerstown’ showcases another excellent vocal on a midtempo rocker that again recalls the likes of ‘The Life and Times of a Ballad Monger’ album.

The first epic type number is next in ‘Don’t Ever Stop Loving Me’ which starts acoustically and builds in power. The electric guitar here takes the song to another level. I sound like a broken record, but Tyla’s vocals on this album are some of the best he has ever put on tape (or digital). ‘Mickey Roses’ reminds me a bit of the previously mentioned ‘Serpents Kiss’ from ‘Jack O Byte Bluesy Volume 1.’ This is another favourite from the album and inspires some air guitar work to go with my very poor singalong, which doesn’t worry I do where no one can hear me. Closing out the first half of the album with the one other song on the album that has not completely clicked with me ‘I Really Love You.’ It is an upbeat acoustic number that, for me, suffers a bit because of the repetition in the lyrics. It also falls victim to the songs that come before it and what follow it on the second half of the album.

Kickstarting the back half of the album, Tyla delivers an epic that when I first heard it reminded me of his classic ‘The Town’ with an electric feel. ‘Human After All’ is a showstopper of only electric guitar and vocals where the guitar notes and Tyla’s vocals intertwine with one another perfectly. How do you follow up a masterpiece? Cue excellent rocker ‘It’s a Shame’ that provides another singalong tune which hits me a little harder at the moment because of my Dad’s health. Raise a glass to those that you have lost in your life. ‘In Plain Sight’ slows things down a bit but also provides plenty of glorious noise. If you want a past comparison, this is one that recalls side B of the ‘Libertine’ album where something like ‘What If’ rose and fell in musical intensity. The difference here is the added tasteful guitar solo and nuances across the song, which is the longest on here by a hair.

‘Religion Kills’ follows and is our second longest on the album. The drum work is outstanding and really helps create a hard rocking epic song. There are some distorted vocals added at the beginning to give the song a different feel. Tyla’s vocals here slay. The guitar is upfront in the mix as well to create an urgency in the song’s feel. If I had to find a comparison, I might go with a full band and studio version of something from the ‘Mightier than the Sword’ albums. After two epic songs, Tyla delivers another excellent midtempo song with some brilliant lyrics in ‘The Special One.’ There are not many choruses that work something like ‘egocentric narcissist preoccupied with power’ into its hook, but this one does masterfully. ‘Do Anything’ is a slow bluesy rocker that showcases more excellent guitarwork and vocals.

Our final songs of the album begin with Tyla whistling over the music to start ‘River of Death.’ It bears repeating again that Tyla’s vocals on this album are incredible. This is another song that hits me deeply for personal reasons, and it hits harder and harder on me with each listen. Our last epic on the album is ‘Written in Heavy Blood’ and provides lots of opportunities for the air guitar to get a workout. The song has a great groove and vocal hook to it. Acoustic closer ‘Love Will Find You One Day’ works perfectly in its tight 90 second length to bring the album to an end.

I am sure one of the ‘complaints’ about the album will be its length at 18 songs in just over an hour. It is a lot to process over the first 5-10 listens, but I would not eliminate anything here. The two songs that didn’t initially connect with me have each continued to grow with every listen. I hate to think how many songs Tyla has written at this point and love that he continues to find new ways to innovate what he does and add new wrinkles. If you are a fan of his work, I think you will love this album. If you have never heard him, this serves as a really good starting point, and I don’t think I could say that about too many artists 40 years into their career. The first quarter of the year has seen a few dynamite releases already, and this one is another that will be challenging for my album of the year. ‘Glory Days’ are the here and now.

‘Gilding the Lily’ is officially released March 14, 2025.

Buy Here or direct from Tyla – https://www.tylasarttavern.shop

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Author: Gerald Stansbury

Punter – ‘Australianation’ (UK Drunken Sailor Records/ Australia via Televised Suicide Records, Green Noise Records (USA)

Punter – ‘Australianation’ (UK Drunken Sailor Records/ Australia via Televised Suicide Records, Green Noise Records (USA)

Every now and then an album comes across your path that will have a real impact and knock you off your feet, almost a physical thing that can be awe-inspiring and breathtaking. Not to be too hyperbolic but Punter did that when I was sent this to review I was instantly blown away. The first play was exhilarating and I had to take a break and do something else then go back to it a day later just to see if I’d lost my senses or if my first impression lasted into the second and then the third and so on. Fuck me sideways, this album is the dog’s bollocks I liked their debut EP from a few years ago bu tthis is next level. I have no idea why, it’s not original nor is it so groundbreaking it’s genre-defying or something so new  I can’t make head nor tales of it. It’s a loud rapid punk rock record from Australia (der the cue is in the title) but the delivery and passion contained within touched me like a visit to Lourdes and a dunk in the holy water of punk rock n roll.

‘Safe In The Bubble’ starts it all off with a simple scuff of the guitar before going in both feet first it’s hardcore but with bells and whistles and so much more. The vocal spit in with more venom than I’ve heard in a while all whilst the guitars slash and hack but the sum of its parts only goes to make the devastating racket that is my soundtrack for the last month or so. Hell, there’s even bagpipes for fucks sake. Bon Scott would have thrown his pipes in the Sydney Harbour if he’d heard this and how to wheeze that bag of air.

The title track is along next with a swift metaphorical kick to the nether regions to take your breath away.  There’s something quite beautiful about a band that captures such beauty in such visceral and punishing styles. Punter have their collective finger on the pulse as the music gets faster and more manic but it explodes into a calming acoustic guitar outro that I didn’t see coming.  If you think that was brutal ‘Turf Layer’ is up next just to poke you in the eye with a very blunt stick but you keep going back for more.

It’s the soundtrack to the best bar brawl ever and could power a fleet of electric cars for days on one frantic play. ‘The Golden Hour’ almost eats itself before ‘Chin Stroker’ is like a rabid dog out of control in a supermarket taking out anything in its path – frantic – brutal take your pick this shit is happening and I fuckin love it.

Its not all thrashing about smashing everything in its path, oh ok it is but ‘Bone To Pick’ is a bit more mild-mannered and more measured with its twelve-bar riffage and a solo that’s tap tastic and like a missile boring into your ear.

The fact there are thirteen songs on this album is mental it’s spoiling us to the point that anyone hearing this should do so on their own it’s dangerous.  ‘No Normal’ is tub thumping tastic – oh fuck it you get the picture this record is the bomb and you should just get a copy its as if Clowns have joined forces with Bronx and a whole host of other great bands and joined forces to write an album that sets the tempo for all future punk rock releases.

‘Rise OF The Technocrat’ is a runaway bassline and hack n slash rampage on the guitar it’s bloody dangerous, seriously don’t drive whilst listening to this or your heading for a world of trouble. In fact this album’s thirteenth offering is the album’s finest and it would seem that everything to this point has been merely setting the way.  @It Aint Pretty’ is spot on and the absolute zenith of how to do punk rock hardcore style in 2025. Buy this album right now, don’t think about it just trust me and get your grubby hands on a copy it’ll blow you away. Absolute fuckin killer!

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Author: Dom Daley

Crymwav – ‘Sense Of Adventure’ Video

Crymwav – ‘Sense Of Adventure’ Video

West coast rockers Crymwav (Pronounced ‘Crimewave’) release new single ‘Sense Of Adventure’, a blend of the energetic punk sound of Angel City with the gothic rock flair of The Damned. Itfollows the late 2024 release ‘Contagious’. Both singles produced by JJ Blair (Rod Stewart, Jeff Beck, Weezer) are a taste of what’s to come from the forthcoming album, slated for a summer 2025 release. The LA rockers are crossing the pond to play a show at the famous Iron Maiden pub the Cart & Horses in London England on 28th March, also on the bill Syteria, who feature Girlschool lead guitarist Jackie Chambers, and Star Circus.

Social Media/Online

Crymwav.bandcamp.com

http://www.instagram.com/crymwav

http://www.Facebook.com/Crymwav 

https://www.youtube.com/@Crymwav