The Duke Spirit - Neptune: C-

An odd English band that blends a bit of Blondie, lots of Momas and Papas, and a dash of Sonic Youth. At times it all gels and is pretty good (Lassoo). But more often than not it sounds like some deranged cover band (Dog Roses). So, mostly pass on this band.

Land of Talk - Some Are Lakes: B

Music: 8/10 Vocals: 4/5 Lyrics: 4/5 Production: 4/5
Total: 20/25: B

After a very good but someone jumbled first album, Land of Talk comes back with "Some Are Lakes". This entry is much stronger than the first. Elizabeth Powell sticks with mostly double tracking her voice which appears to be her signature sound. It for the most part works. When it doesn't it usually is because the recording gets a bit too sharp on the ears. The music is much tighter this time around with only a few moments where they get too loose and meander a bit too long before coming back together. Mostly, the music leans on post-punk and rock. One standout is easily the opening track "Yuppie Flu" which has an infectious beat and stabbing guitar. The slow song, "It's Okay" is a haunting song of love lost. Every other song is good with no fillers. I wish other bands could put out a whole album of quality tracks. If they can lean a bit more towards mainstream songwriting such as the title track, "Land of Talk" could easily see some commercial success. Overall I can easily recommend Land of Talk.

Lo Bianco New American Cuisine: A

We had our holiday party at Lo Bianco in Collingswood, NJ. It is a fantastic new restaurant that should have much success in this hot location for great food. We started with roasted portabella covered in cheese, onions, and spinich. Each serving was a great bit or two. Next we went to the mussells which were in a delicous garlic and saffron sauce. The bread was also very good with a great crust and just chewy enough.

The main meals were all fantastic. The braised beef shortrib was easily a standout. A huge rib with meat that melted in your mouth served over mashed potatoes and some grilled scallions. The scallops and steak au poivre was also great. Several people raved about the scallops. But the portion was a little small. But overall everyone was very pleased with their various meals.

For the food, the only disappointment was the dessert. We got the chocolate tort which was fair at best. I recommend the restaurant perhaps outsource their desserts to a local bakery.

The service was relatively prompt but a little unpolished. The waitresses did not adequately describe the food in detail. Also one was chewing gum.

Overall, a fantastic new place in Collingwood. I wish them many successes.

Eagles of Death Metal - Heart On: D

Music: 4/10 Vocals: 3/5 Lyrics: 2/5 Production: 2/5
Total: 11/25: D

The singer/guitarist from "Queens of the Stone Age" also fronts this band on his off days. EoDM is more stripped down band that explores different influences than the hard rock QotSA. Unfortunately, even though I can hear the makings of some great songs here, they are all under polished and poorly recorded. The entire album sounds like a few mics were set up in a room and the vocals overdubbed on that. The guitars sound very tiny and tinny. The songwriting sounds rushed. Many of the songs needed more time to fully flesh out. Instead they meander a bit or good hooks are paired with foddor.

Listened to in the background it sounds like a very good album. But when you pay attention you realize it all doesn't gel and it's a very poor outing.