iPod Observer http://www.ipodobserver.com/ iPod Observer: Discover Dave Hamilton's New Music en-us Album Of The Year http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B00001IVHH Tue, 11 Apr 2006 11:22:39 -0400 Killer grooves, catchy riffs, edgy vocals with oh-so-just-right layered harmonies, and a drive that will move even YOU out of your chair, Brother Love's initial release is what rock and roll should be... and more. De Nova http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B0009MAPYK Thu, 21 Jul 2005 10:37:08 -0400 Wow! Perhaps my 5-star rating is simply because the Redwalls are not only new and fresh (none of them older than 22!), or perhaps its because -- despite their ages -- they are able to totally capture what it means to rock and roll. And I don't mean that new-fangled rock and roll, either. These guys *totally* understand their roots, perhaps playing too much homage to them, but darn it if they don't do it... and it's soooooo goood. As a friend of mine wrote me the other day, "just go buy it." For me, anyway, his command hit the mark. Life's Rich Pageant http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B00093IPPA Fri, 15 Jul 2005 09:22:12 -0400 In the long series of R.E.M.'s evolution, this album (finally?) showcases their ability to capture on tape what had been happening in the live for years: heartfelt, sweat-filled performances that just ooze a rock and roll edge. After hearing this album, you can understand why college students across the land packed wall-to-wall into tiny clubs to check out these 4 guys. Of course, after this album, things began to pick up steam, and, well, you know the rest! Live at the Magic Bag, Ferndale, MI http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B0002Y4T2E Fri, 08 Jul 2005 18:07:13 -0400 Man, there's nothing like good, old fashioned, rock and roll... add a bit of industry resentment to that with a double-shot of cynicism, and you get one of the best "new" rock bands going. This album captures them live on a random evening, and they blow through their set like it's the last time they'll ever get to play. Rock Spectacle http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B000002NB7 Fri, 08 Jul 2005 03:47:32 -0400 These guys know how to put on a live show, and whomever recorded this knows how to capture one. Rock Spectacle is one of the warmest-sounding recordings I've ever heard, and totally fills a room at any listening level. Harmonies radiate out in a perfect blend, and each instrument breathes on its own. The songs are great, if you like this sort of stuff, but even if you don't, the production quality alone makes this record stand out in the collection. Mystics Anonymous http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B00003IRBB Fri, 08 Jul 2005 03:44:22 -0400 Mystics Anonymous is the brainchild project of Jeff Steblea, a fantastic songwriter and good friend of mine, as well. In fact, I even played the drums on all but one of the tracks on this album. Jeff's songs and melodies will catch you right off the bat, and you're sure to enjoy. 2112 http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B000001ESF Fri, 08 Jul 2005 03:39:40 -0400 We all know it, right? Well, ya just gotta have it. 2112 finally showed Rush out on their own, doing their own thing, and doing it well, IMHO. Rift http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B000002HC5 Fri, 08 Jul 2005 03:38:27 -0400 This quasi-concept album (the only of its kind) from these Vermonters finally showcased their ability to convey a message with a studio album, whereas previously they only succeeded in doing so live. A great album, indeed, and a wonderful introduction to the band as a studio force. 8:30 http://www.ipodobserver.com/music/album/B0000029FR Fri, 08 Jul 2005 03:32:43 -0400 This is Weather Reports quintessential line-up captured live. Jaco Pastorious and Peter Erskine join Wayne Shorter and, of course, Joe Zawinul to create this masterpiece.