Recurring Dream - BARDO

BARDO is the culmination of some of LA's finest, doing what they do best - rock! BARDO is part punk, part pop, part rock/alternative; but all attitude. Their album opener, GP Boulevard begins with a simple clean guitar riff and King's vocals, sung clearly and flowing. The drive kicks in at the first chorus and remains throughout the rest of the song.

On track 3, Beautiful, BARDO begins with a tight, in the pocket, groove that complements King's voice perfectly. The pre-chorus gives you layers and drives you into the hooky chorus, singing "you're beautiful."

Run, exposes some of the inner grit within the bands songwriting. Its all drive from the beginning to end. The guitar solo is thought provoking and poignant. Its angular from the straightforward punk-rock tune, but its just the art the song needs.

Finally, on Free To Go, King lilts her voice from almost spoken-word to floating falsetto. The band works thoughtfully throughout the song and plays just what is needed; nothing more, nothing less.

BARDO clearly exhibits recording prowess and songwriting critique.

LA'ers...check them out if you haven't already!

RATING: 4 of 5 stars

The Only Ride You Can Get - Keith Moody

From the first listen, Keith Moody reminded me of a nice blend of Americana roots-rock and country. There are moments of Tom Petty, Gin Blossoms, and Keith Urban. Moody has a pop appealing ear that truly shows in his writing and production.

His album, The Only Ride You Can Get, was produced by Moody and Jason Elgin. Album opener, Think, does a great job of implementing a mandolin into the forefront. The two-step drum groove keeps the pace up and Moody's vocals are stellar.

Press Gas and Go have all of the components of a pop-rock/county tune. There's catchy guitar riffs mixed with vocal hooks that will have you humming along by the second chorus. On Love Drunk, Moody again utilizes the mandolin as lead rhythm instrument. This song falls more into the vein of roots rock a la a more southern Bob Dylan.

Finally on his title track, Moody writes a country ballad. The verses are almost spoken, and draw in the listener. The choruses are full of great harmonies and backing vocals that make this a great cap on the album!

RATING: 4 of 5 stars