Several local bands have released albums today. Here’s a short preview of each.
The Jinxed – The Loon (Digital 7”)
If you haven’t heard of The Jinxed, you’re probably in good company; but you should recognize most of the names. This local supergroup of sorts has emerged with a digital 7” released by Sharp County Records today. The group—who also plays together in local cover band The Magnetics—includes lead vocalist and guitarist Bobby Topaz (Bad Wheels), and Antennas Up members Jon Ulasien (piano/synth, drums, bass, guitar, backing vocals) and Bo McCall (guitar). Ulasien recorded and produced the record, and Lennon Bone (Ha Ha Tonka) provides trumpet on the title track.
And from this track alone, there’s plenty of reason to give this group some well-deserved buzz. “The Loon” is a driving pop-rock diddy drenched in a feel-good ‘70s glam sensibility. Penned by Ulasien, the track has the infectious pop intensity of an Antennas Up song. McCall’s squealing guitar brings a psych element to the music, and Topaz adds the cherry on top with his charismatic vocals that strut seamlessly across the aural landscape.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed for future recordings from these guys.
Hidden Pictures – Sister Wife (EP)
Hidden Pictures releases Sister Wife, a 3-track EP, today on Golden Sound Records. The songs were recorded with a host of local talent: band regulars Richard Gintowt (lead singer/songwriter), Nate Holt (keys), and vocalist Claire Adams (Claire & The Crowded Stage, Appropriate Grammar, Quirk & Ruckus), guitarist Jeff Freling (Victor & Penny), bassist Kyle Akers (Antennas Up), and drummer Lennon Bone. Though a slight departure from the band’s previous recordings, Gintowt’s songs retain their characteristically clean-cut, bright pop leanings. Sister Wife was mixed by Joel Nanos at Element Recording and mastered by Doug Van Sloun at Focus Mastering in Omaha. Drums and bass were recorded by Paul Malinowski at Massive Sound Studio.
This Friday, June 7, Hidden Pictures will be playing at the Crossroads Summer Block Party on 19th and Wyandotte. This will include eight local bands from Golden Sound Records and The Record Machine, along with food trucks and art/fashion vendors. The free fest goes from 6 to midnight; Hidden Pictures plays at 9:00.
Red Velvet Crush – Smoke & Mirrors (EP)
Smoke & Mirrors is the debut EP from Red Velvet Crush, fronted by young veteran musician Jillian Riscoe. The album was produced by Dave Percefull (Green Day, David Cook) at yellow DOG Studios. These four tracks give us an idea of the dancey but heavy-hitting appeal of a young band that fires from all corners of its material.
The band will have a special release party for Smoke & Mirrors at Czar on Saturday, June 15 at 6:00. The show is all ages and $5 presale or $10 at the door. Facebook event page.
Doby Watson & Margo May – Watson & May
Singer/songwriters Doby Watson and Margo May have teamed up to record Watson & May, a 7-track album that has been released digitally today. Tapes will be available at shows. May’s dreamy vocals coupled with Watson’s heavy-hearted, mature voice add critical textures to the sparse tone of the instrumentation. Watson & May was produced and engineered by Lennon Bone.
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