Music Scene: new year, new tunes

Hensley Sturgis, Cabin Fever, Blue Rose Records

Hensley Sturgis stand out from the pack of alternative country/rock bands with inspired songwriting and fiery performances that hit hard with just a touch of twang. Barry Hensley had his 15 minutes of major label fame several years ago with the band Big Back Forty, but on their second disc, Hensley Sturgis (Jason Sturgis plays guitar and sings) surpass anything previously released by all concerned. A great disc. Available at www.milesofmusic.com.

The Silos, Laser Beam Next Door, Checkered Past Records

The Silos, fronted by guitarist Walter Salas-Humara, rip through 11 rockers, characterized by the group’s rootsy reliance on traditional rock styles and a refreshing ‘60’s garage rock influence. I could have done without the two cuts sung in Spanish (both are stinkers), but the rest of the disc celebrates rock ‘n roll with joyous abandon. Available at www.milesofmusic.com.

Better Off Dead, Girl With a Job, GarageLand Records

Better Off Dead is a Jersey City, NJ-based band with a strong sense of DIY (do-it-yourself). Indeed, their last two discs were recorded in the guitarist’s bedroom. The sound is surprisingly good, as the group lays down 17 cuts that span the rock gamut from rockabilly to British Invasion to ‘60’s garage punk. Leader V.D. King (I once asked him if he has trouble getting dates with that name) never lets things become too serious as he and his band play for the sheer joy of the music alone. www.garagelandrecords.com.

Various Artists, Good Rockin’ Tonight—The Legacy of Sun Records, Sire Records

This is the accompanying CD for the television documentary on Sun Records, broadcast on all PBS stations in December and it’s a winner. Standout tracks include Paul McCartney’s letter-perfect rendition of  “That’s All Right,” accompanied by Elvis Presley’s former sidemen guitarist Scotty Moore and drummer DJ Fontana, Elton John’s wild take on “Whole Lotta’ Shakin’ Goin’ On,” Jeff Beck and Chrissie Hynde’s version of “Mystery Train,” and Matchbox 20’s tribute to Charlie Rich, “Lonely Weekend,” which also features Jerry Lee Lewis on piano. Kid Rock also makes an appearance with the Howling Diablos, rapping “Drinking Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee.”

Mystery of The Week Award: Goes to the individual who anonymously sent me a written admonition that I omitted classical violinist Isaac Stern from my list of music business deaths for 2001. I knew about Mr. Stern’s passing, but due to limited space and the fact that I don’t cover classical music, was unable to include him. This was not meant as a slight to Mr. Stern, truly one of the great virtuosos of the violin.