Phoenix was built on a desire to buy and to have. People can own acres of land on the side of a mountain, and they can go to the outlet mall to pick out all the finest furniture and accouterments to fill their homes. At the same time, there are…
Remember way back (like, to the early ’90s), when suddenly, almost out of nowhere, you heard a ska song on the radio? You inevitably thought to yourself, “What the fuck? Ska hasn’t been popular in the U.S. for ages!” Shortly thereafter, you found yourself practicing “skankin'” in your apartment when…
Scott Johnson’s new release is a fusion of all that is local. While the Gin Blossoms’ guitarist has risen to national success and recognition, this album truly does feel homegrown. That might have something to do with the album’s being recorded primarily at local studios or, perhaps, it’s a result…
Shelby James and the Crying Shames’ Cadillac Valentine is an often sprightly blend of ’90s rock, country, blues, driving bass and drums, and ’60s-esque guitar and vocal riffs. Drawing on influences far and wide, the lyrics quote songs by everyone from Pink Floyd to Oasis, and the melodies are reminiscent…
Tucson’s Greyhound Soul blends rough vocals, country twang, and straight-ahead rock with a twist of the blues. It’s like hearing the child of Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Tom Waits, Hans Olson, the Pistoleros, and one of the small, unknown bands you might catch at Modified on a Wednesday…
Phunk Junkeez More than just a little reminiscent of the Beastie Boys, the entire genre of white, outlandish pseudo-rap is somewhat of a novelty that has worn itself out, but the six-piece Phunk Junkeez manage to come together into a tight, cohesive group that sounds layered, blending funk, hip-hop and…
