Arctic Monkeys

Vaz, “The 2nd”

Every now and again I encounter a record that I can’t seem to be able to buy on digital, but is available on physical media. Usually it’s some older release that nobody has bothered putting onto digital marketplaces, but sometimes there will be some new vinyl-only release by somebody. Or worse, cassette-only. Chartreuse Bull was one of those when I first bought it, although it subsequently showed up on Bandcamp. But included in the LP when I bought it was a code to download a digital copy, and I appreciate that so much, thank you to their label.

The Allstonians, “Mikey Dee”

After the collapse of Moon Ska Records left a smoking crater in the scene, it took some bands a while to get back on track. The Allstonians were one of them, with a gap of 6 years between The Allston Beat and Bottoms Up!. The time didn’t really do them any favors - it’s a decent album, but it doesn’t really have the same energy or charm as the first two, which are some of my favorites from the third wave.

The Management would like to apologize for yesterday’s entry. Those responsible have been sacked. Let’s try this again today.

Less Than Jake, “Just Like Frank”

We’re not rid of the ska, apparently! Actually, Less Than Jake really are barely ska at all. They have the occasional ska song, but they’re really a punk band. And a good one! Have I made that point before? I probably have. Whatever. Here at Five Songs, Quality is Job Six or Seven On A Good Day.

Today’s music.

Shadowy Men On A Shadowy Planet, “They Don’t Call Them Chihuahuas Anymore”

I want to call to attention how immaculate this recording sounds. All three instruments just have so much space to operate in. At any moment, you can focus entirely on any instrument and really concentrate on it. Or, of course, you can just relax and enjoy the charming song.

Arctic Monkeys, “Do Me A Favor”

Honestly, the way this song starts, it could have been a Shadowy Men song. At least until the vocals kick in. British underground rock Arctic Monkeys became pretty big deals, propelled by the Internet, but it was pretty justified. The first couple albums were very much in the vein of bands like the Strokes and Franz Ferdinand, but done very well. I didn’t really follow them beyond the first two albums, though.