Hundred-word Reviews for April 2025: Rock #2
More rock-focused reviews, succinct style.
The Loft – Everything Changes Everything Stays the Same
Imagine Wreckless Eric fronting Oasis, singing songs by The Waterboys’ Mike Scott. That unlikely description hints at the sound of The Loft’s “Feel Good Now” has a vibe that’s equal parts melancholy and good-timing, and it’s as strong an opening track as one could ever hope for. But it only hints at the stylistic scope of the band. “Dr. Clarke” feels like a pub rocking rethink of The Beatles’ “Doctor Robert.” There’s a pleasantly country rocking feel to “Ten Years,” with expressive lyrics filled with regret. “Killer” is reminiscent of late-period Crowded House. Everything Changes is a rich musical journey.
Steve Rosenthal – One Heart, Two Hearts, Red Heart, Blue Heart
I came to know Rosenthal through his frequent attendance at my monthly “Music to Your Ears” discussion series. He’s always an articular and informed part of the discussion, so it came as no surprise to learn that he’s a talented musician as well. The album serves up seven nicely textured rockers that emphasize melody, searing lead guitar lines and a character with hints of ‘80s jangle. Some songs have a lo-fi, almost bootleg feel; others sound like demos, and a few are fully produced. But Rosenthal’s sharp songwriting smarts shine through on “Rock ‘N Roll Bullshit” and all other cuts.
Sorrows – Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow
If Orgone Box’s Rick Corcoran fronted Star Club-era Beatles, the result might sound like “Never Mind,” the opening track on Sorrows’ latest album. The NYC group displays punk energy wedded to a sophisticated powerpop character reminiscent of The Records. A pilled-up reinvention of The Rolling Stones’ “Have You Seen Your Mother, Baby” is ace, but the original songs making up the bulk of Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow are swell, too. Taut songwriting evokes thoughts of Revolver-era Beatles crossed with The Romantics. Surprise: while it’s just now released, the album was recorded in 1981. Well, that explains a few things.
The Third Mind – Live Mind
The Third Mind formed in 2019. A supergroup of sorts, the band features guitarist Dave Alvin and bassist Victor Krummenacher among its coterie of stellar musicians. But the group sounds nothing like any of the members’ other projects. Based on improvisation (not jamming!), The Third Mind injects exploratory innovation into covers and originals. Few other bands have the moxie to tackle “East/West.” As good as TTM’s studio albums have been, this live set captures them at their very best. They also capture the essence of the Grateful Dead’s “Dark Star” in five minutes, something Jerry and his pals couldn’t do.
Mitch Ryder – With Love
Among casual listeners, Mitch Ryder is known for his ‘60s hits. Among those who’ve dug deeper, he’s respected as a prolific rocker whose catalog is filled with undiscovered gems. Neither of those audiences would have expected him to turn in one of his finest releases at age 80. But the Don Was-produced With Love is a sizzling collection of unvarnished, soulful and funky rockers. From the opening “Lilli May” through the album’s nine other cuts, Ryder is in fine, raspy form on this superb collection of all original material. Ryder’s songwriting muse yields a varied set that explores many textures.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day for several years). The more than 5000 interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he taught a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- some 40 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: 30 Great Concept Albums is available now. Read even more about him here.