Sometimes we here in Bop City are
accused of being obsessed with the past at the expense of the
present. Thanks to the Cassandra that charge seldom proves true, but
we are aware that the responsibility we feel for the preservation and
celebration of rock’s history sometimes makes us appear indifferent
to modern trends. It can be tough, in the world of MySpace, iPods,
and satellite radio, to identify the acts that will be seen in
fifteen years as the Quarries of today. Still, years of experience
made Sam adept at spotting talent, and many believed his ear improved
with age. That experience endures at Bop, and this week I thought I’d
share some thoughts on future superstars.
First is Palermo, a one-man-band
project in the studio with Dave Gertz playing all the vintage,
esoteric instruments that make his first album, Ephemera,
sound like a dreamy tour through another time, a sepia-tinted visit
with your great-grandparents. The lyrics, though, are as fresh as
tomorrow’s flowers, just as sweet and just as beautiful. Be
careful, though; the blooms can conceal thorns.
The X-Tincts have a completely
different sound and approach, but are still grounded in tradition.
With two complete rhythm sections (Brad Donnelly and Rhodes Davenport
on drums, Giles Wimsatt and Tomas Steprow on bass), Gordon Plunkett’s
new band is undeniably funky and danceable. Plunkett’s voice
recalls the best of Memphis and Muscle Shoals, the passion of Sanford
Scott and the range of Stan Kieth. Buy Jams on Earth--it’ll
become your favorite party record instantly, and may become one of
your favorites, period.
The Buzzkills are the latest
decade-old overnight sensation, this time from Louisville. After
supporting and opening for hundreds of acts nationwide, the Lawrence
brothers, Greg and Don, have broken through with Overdue. The
aptly-named collection of exceptional classic-rock and pop tunes with
smart, edgy, modern lyrics is the surefire heir to Green Monster.
It’s great, and there looks to be much more where it came from.
Finally, Moira Nekdepar and Raianne
Williams prove that second-generation musicians can have the talent
to succeed without relying on their parents. Nekdepar’s Tales
from Celeste and Williams’ Tincture are similar only in
the most superficial ways: piano-driven, strongly-written
song-stories from full-grown talents, young women who grew up and out
of the shadows of their famous parents. (Note: Joey Williams has said
Raianne is already a better piano player than he’ll ever be because
her parents could afford lessons.)
These five acts are proof that the
music Bop City celebrates is alive and thriving. I’m glad to share
it with you, and hope you’ll share your favorites too. Contact Bop
City through the Feedback page and let us know what you’re
enjoying.