3 Albums That Kick Booty

Some new music I been rockin on my stereo, all of it worth a listen.

Social Distortion's Greatest Hits


On Wit's advice, I decided to check out Social D's repertoire, and this album was a great buy. These guy's aren't just good...they rock. Here and there the lyrics are overly simple in a heard-that-a-million-times-before kind of way, but only on occasion. Generally they are sharp, honest and to the point. While not master lyricists, the band's musical prowess is impeccable, and Mike Ness is one killer guitarist.

I see why Springsteen likes him. Their respective guitar playing styles are different, but there is a similar attitude, a similar kind of timing and placement of solos.

I've always liked punk, especially The Clash, and Social D has vaulted their way onto my list of favorite punk musicians...and more. I'll be buying more of these guys.

Gotta hear: Ball and Chain, Bad Luck, Far Behind


Together Through Life


Bobby's new album. What can anyone say about Bobby that hasn't been said before? Except, maybe, that he's on an unparalleled run that quite frankly might be outranking his epic, world-altering turnout in the 60's. These days Dylan isn't changing society with his music, but he's still doing something no one else is capable of doing.

The music he's been making since he took over the reigns of producing in the studio is wholly unique, everything from the single Things Have Changed through Love and Theft, Modern Times and now Together Through Life. It's not that it's necessarily greater than what anyone else is doing (though it probably is) or that it's deeper (though it definitely is) or that it's more complex (almost certainly), but simply that there really isn't anyone in music with Dylan's breadth and depth of knowledge, musically, and thus no one who could possibly blend everything they've ever heard together like this. Except Bobby.

The first time through this album you have to adjust yourself, because it's so unlike anything else you're listening to. The first listen is a jolt, and only about the third and fourth time through, once you've grown accustomed, do you begin to grasp the brilliance.

And it is brilliant. Sublimely brilliant.

Gotta Hear: Jolene, Shake Shake Mama, I Feel a Change Comin On


Untold Truths


Believe it or not, Kevin Costner has been working off and on with this band, his band, for some twenty years. He's always loved rock and roll, been a musician, but all that damn acting kinda got in the way. Who knew?

And, believe it or not, these guys are pretty good. Not spectacular, but Costner's voice is steady and suits the country-rock style he's aiming for. The songs, while not startlingly well-written, are strong enough. And the music gets the feet moving, which is rather the point, now isn't it?

The interesting thing is that if you didn't know it was Costner, you'd never figure it out. You'd just think they were another mid-level Eagles imitation with a fair amount of talent who were obviously enjoying themselves. Probably be a lotta fun to see live.

Gotta Hear: Every Intention, 90 Miles an Hour, Five Minutes From America