Pads & Panels

Artist: Anthony Raneri

Album: New Cathedrals

Label: Gumshoe Records

Rating:

Review by: Bill Jones

Anyone who has heard Bayside, love or hate, can agree that Anthony Raneri’s songwriting and vocal style are unique. So a solo effort seems like the logical next step for the singer and songwriter, and Raneri launched an independent label earlier this year to release his first “solo” effort, New Cathedrals, a five-song EP.

Bayside has already gone acoustic, so the first question on everyone’s mind should be, “What does this offer that I’m not getting from a Bayside album?” And the simple answer is diversity. The core of the Bayside style is there, primarily because it is again Raneri’s unique approach taking center stage, and it is most evident in a track like “The Ballad of Bill The Saint,” which feels like it could have fit in on a Bayside album. (more…)

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Band: Deal Gone Bad

Album: “Far From Home”/ “These Arms of Mine” 7-inch

Label: Self

Rating:

Review by: Bill Jones

Deals Gone Bad has always been a fun band to see on the opening bill of local shows in Chicago, especially at the Midwest Skafest. Frankly, they’re a nice chance of pace from the usual punk stuff that I’ve got playing, and even the faster-paced ska featured on the festival bills. The band is a talented group of guys that bring a soulful blend of reggae influence to the forefront of virtually everything they do, creating a relaxing sound.

So I’ve got to admit I was excited with the introduction of their latest release’s A-side, “Far From Home,” the first original tune from the band since 2007’s The Ramblers. The opening is full of energy, almost giving off an in-your-face Blues Brothers sort of vibe. (more…)

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