We got into the theatre and pretty much all the seats were full (go figure, given the above), so we were banished to the front row… We probably would have asked for a refund if we had paid, but the tickets were free, so we sucked it up. The film was great, assuming you are into horror/gore films. Rob Zombie definitely gave the film a distinct 70’s horror feel, and even though this was a genre film, he did an outstanding job… He really does have a clear and vivid vision and is really able to get it up on the screen well. It went for fewer laughs than his previous film, House of 1000 Corpses, but there were still some funny moments (uncomfortably or otherwise).
reviews
Squarepusher
I got a promo for the upcoming Squarepusher album “Go Plastic”, and so far, so good. It isn’t the revolutionary work that many have made it out to be, but it is a damn fine CD. Sometimes you think to yourself that Mr. Jenkinson has run out of new breakbeats and he is reusing ones from prior CDs, but I don’t think it is overbearingly derivative (just a smidge). It is definitely a more aggressive, less jazzy album (compare to the Big Loada EP), but the jazz influences are still there, they have just taken a back seat for awhile. It will take a few more listens before I make a final decision, but I am not disappointed as of yet.
Music Review: Secret Chiefs 3 “First Grand Constitution and Bylaws”
Ok, I admit it… I am addicted to Mr. Bungle… One of the great things about Mr. Bungle is that the music generated by the band is not only interesting and diverse, but the band members are involved in many different side projects that cover a large spectrum of musical styles. The most visible member of Mr. Bungle, lead singer Mike Patton, has involved himself in many projects. Fortunately, the other members of Bungle have done so as well. This review is of a release from one of those side projects, the Secret Chiefs 3.
Secret Chiefs 3 is a project headed up by Bungle guitarist Trey Spruance, and also featuring Bar McKinnon, Trevor Dunn, and Danny Heifetz. While you can still see some Bungle poke through, this album definately stands on its own. While it has a strong middle-eastern influence (witness Track 2), the album still manages to straddle many fences; There are obviously many different influences (Film Scores, Pop, and Metal, to name a few).
The disc I purchased was a reissue of the original disc, which was released on Amarillo (which went out of business). The reissue is on Mimicry Records, which is the record label owned by Trey. I actually ordered two of their discs when they were reissued, and have been happy with both. Much like the work of Bungle proper, this album keeps my ears and mind interested most of the time, which is saying alot in todays barren wasteland of pre-fab pop. I strongly suggest that if you appreciate eclectic music, or are simply willing to experiment, to check out the band. If you like what you hear, go support an independent artist…
Naked City
I like music. Those who know me are very familiar with this. My tastes are pretty extreme in the eyes of many, but experimental music (whether that be electronic, jazz, rock, [insert industry-defined genres here]) is something I love to listen to. I try to be open-minded when it comes to music, and other peoples perceptions of music (I often fail in this quest, but I nonetheless try).
I am going to review CDs here occasionally, perhaps trying to bring an artist I love to light. So, without further ado:
Naked City – John Zorn
I picked this CD up for many reasons… First of all, I became aware of John Zorn a few years back through a friend (James Izzo), who purchased a CD from Zorn’s Painkiller project (with Mick Harris of Napalm Death/Scorn). Zorn’s horn playing amazed me. John Zorn also produced Mr. Bungle’s eponymous debut album, although I didn’t know of him when I first picked that one up. In retrospect, you can certainly hear his influence on the band.
“Naked City” was released in 1989 (or 1990, depending on which copyright notice you believe on the packaging) on Elektra/Nonesuch records. The tracks range from traditional jazz pieces to mind-blowing chaotic noise. John Zorn is known for bending the common perception of jazz, and this album is no exception. Zorn and his merry band of musicians have done incredible arrangements with both Zorn’s original pieces and the few songs they have selected done by other composers. Their rendition of Henry Mancini’s “A Shot in the Dark” is wonderful, and when placed in contrast with the insane chaos of other tracks (such as “Blood Duster”), you get a feel for the talent of both Zorn and the musicians he selected to work with him.
I strongly recommend this album to everyone, you simply must give it a listen (if you are reluctant to lay down the coin, ask me to borrow it.. :P). This album is not only interesting, but it also is quite enjoyable and listenable. I give it my full endorsement (whatever the hell that means).