quickcrit - music reviews

The Shaky Hands' Let It Die is full of meaty rockers, continuing the Portland band's progression from indie folk towards classic rock started on Lunglight. While Nicholas Delffs' strained nasal voice gives the songs urgency, the guitars propel them forward with a mix of comfortable strums and powerful riffs. This music is meant to be played and heard live, although the songs sound pretty good on the album too. I like how on "Slip Away" the beat stutters while the vocals swagger until finally the guitar is let loose. "Allison And The Ancient Eyes" (mp3) rolls along, riding cymbals and hand claps, while Delffs spills regrets. The chugging buzz on the title track should satisfy Kings of Leon fans. "Love Curse" starts slow, but builds up into a pounding finale. Overall, it's a solid album of barroom rock n' roll.

These posts aren't quick, so I've included a one line summary.

Joe Pernice - It Feels So Good When I Stop
Just an okay album to accompany his latest novel.

Panther & the Shaky Hands @ Berbati's Pan
A fun double release show.

I'm really looking forward to the Kill Rock Stars double release party at Berbati's Pan on Thursday. I just picked up Panther's brand new Entropy based purely on the catchy "Love Is Sold" (mp3) and a special $3.99 digital price tag. Depending on the show, I'll probably pick up the Shaky Hands' also brand new Let It Die. Check out their video of "Already Gone" or listen to "Allison and the Ancient Eyes" (mp3), both off the new LP.

1. Hockey - Mind Chaos
   
2. The Builders & The Butchers - The Builders & The Butchers
3. Blind Pilot - 3 Rounds And A Sound
4. Blitzen Trapper - Furr
5. Blue Giant - Target Heart EP
6. Scotland Barr & The Slow Drags - All The Great Aviators Agree
7. The Dandy Warhols - Earth To The Dandy Warhols
8. The Shaky Hands - Lunglight
9. The Upsidedown - Human Destination
10. Horse Feathers - House With No Home