In this column, I celebrated a wide range of great American artists who have new or reissued audio releases available now.
Artist: Crossword Smiles
Title: Consequences & Detours (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Cars, Jason Falkner, Johnny Marr, Del Amitri
Tell me more: Detroit, Michigan melodic rock duo Crossword Smiles has just released their sophomore album, Consequences & Detours, a followup to the acclaimed 2022 debut disc Pressed & Ironed. Featuring the considerable talents of Tom Curless (Tom Curless & The 46%) and Chip Saam (The Hangouts), the new 11-track album features a slew of great tracks including the indie rock opener "Counting By Fives," rollicking Falling All Over Myself," wistful "Girls Club," ska-powered "Night Train," lush art Baroque pop foray "Once Or Twice" (the latter featuring some terrific vocal harmonies), melancholy filled "Fake A Smile" and freewheeling closer "The Never Seens." Fans of some of the great indie and melodic rock artists of the past 50 years — ranging from Crowded House and Del Amitri to Jason Falkner and Johnny Marr — will all find plenty to love about Crossword Smiles' signature approach. Released on May 23, Consequences & Detours is available via vinyl, audio CD and streaming platforms. Information: bigstirrecords.com.
Another standout track on his EP is "Long Road Back to Californy," a rootsy rock song whose lyrical story of the struggles of making a long road trip is simultaneously a metaphor for a journey through life itself.
Two rare bonus tracks round out the EP; "Tombstone Woman" and "One Good Woman Blues" were recorded in Austin, Texas and mastered by Jerry Tubb (the latter whose credits include working on records by John Lennon, Willie Nelson and Paul McCartney).
Storms of Trouble was recorded live in the studio with no overdubs, including Ubaldini's vocals and sharp guitar work. What's more, the title was recorded on analogue tape. Along with Ubaldini on guitar and vocals, the talents of Jeremy Long (piano, organ), John Mctuige (drums) and Jared Manzo (bass) are featured on the title. Storms of Trouble is currently available on 12-inch limited edition red colored vinyl.
Information: rocknrollpoet.com.
Artist: Jan & Dean
Title: One Last Ride (RockBeat Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Beach Boys, Jan & Dean, the Chantays
Tell me more: Celebrated surf music duo Jan & Dean's live album One Last Ride — recorded in Roslyn, New York in 1981 — was recently reissued and is worthy of discovery for fans of The Beach Boys, Chantays and other surf music greats. The audio CD collection features Jan Berry and Dean Torrence delivering tuneful takes on some of the most beloved songs of the 1960s including the spirited opener "New Girl In School," the doo-wop romp "Baby Talk," a speedy take of their top 10 hit "Drag City," a faithful run through The Beach Boys' 1963 hit "Little Deuce Coupe," the harmonies-filled "Ride The Wild Surf," infectious "Sidewalk Surfin'," sumptuous "The Little Old Lady From Pasadena" and euphoric "Surf City." Of particular interest is Jan & Dean's affecting cover of the Beatles gem "You've Got To Hide Your Love Away," as well as a fun-filled musical reading of the Turtles' "Happy Together" featuring that band's Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman. As most fans know, Berry suffered a debilitating brain injury due to a car accident, and he ultimately passed away on March 26, 2004 — eight days before his 63rd birthday. Information: LiberationHall.com.
Robert Kinsler
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