New CDs in stores today are coming from a Los Angeles band in transition, a Vancouver band changing things up a bit and an L.A. band giving us more of the same.
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, “Howl” (Red Ink) B.R.M.C. has always been influenced by early-’90s Brit rock and the succinct ’60s rock that spanned multiple continents. But with “Howl,” the band takes a U-turn toward Americana roots music. The trembling organs, jangly guitars and psychedelic harmonies are still there, but now the harmonies are fronted by harmonicas and more rooted in the South than the flashy world of Southern California’s trendy nostalgia rock.
B.R.M.C. plays the Bluebird Theater on Sept. 17.
The New Pornographers, “Twin Cinema” (Matador) The New Pornographers’ new sound is curiously straddling the line of indie pop and power pop. One listen to the title track on this Vancouver supergroup’s excellent new record reveals that what was often thoughtful pop put out by A.C. Newman (Zumpano), Neko Case, Dan Bejar (Destroyer), John Collins (Thee Evaporators) and others is now the ultimate head-nodder.
The New Pornographers play the Gothic Theatre on Oct. 3.
Ozomatli, “Live at the Fillmore” (Concord) The thrill of seeing Ozo live is the sweat, the dancing, the show-ending drumline. It’s all about the looks on their faces, and while this live CD doesn’t have that, the included DVD does. The CD’s sound is on-point, especially with the band’s beautiful harmonies.
– Ricardo Baca
