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Friday, January 13, 2012

The Seven Song Itch - Maidens of Mayhem

January 2012

I never really get enough time to listen to new music when it comes out, so I spend a lot of time searching YouTube and Sirius Satellite Radio to find artists that are similar to what I’m listening to at a point in time.  I discover great songs, and artists, sometimes a few years after they have made their presence known to the world.  It’s a shame that these artists do not have extensive marketing plans from their record companies.  Whether it’s international limits or just that the musical roster at the label is brimming with a myriad of other artists that some of these groups go under-noticed.  For the fans of these bands, there’s no need to re-introduce them, but for the rest of us who just can’t keep up, I offer this sampling of songs in a series I call “The Seven Song Itch.”  This is not meant to be the end-all be-all of a specific genre or even to showcase an artist’s catalog.  These are songs that I feel can stand the test of time and not become like milk—having a limited shelf life.  Maybe you know them, maybe not, but for what it’s worth these artists are out there just killin’ it, and it’s time you were made aware of their prowess. 

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the content in these videos. Everything belongs to it's owners.  For copyright informational use, please refer to the paragraph below the end of the article.

Warning:  Most of this material is not for everyone, especially not the faint of heart.  You've been warned.

1. Gin Wigmore – “Oh My” 
I was introduced to this artist through a Lowe’s commercial several months ago with her song, “Don’t Stop.”  I liked the plucky nature of the music and the upfront lyrics.  She is a showman and has a wonderful career in Australia, but has had limited exposure to the US.  This video from YouTube is a fan’s interpretation of the song though the images of the Movie, “Sucker Punch.”  It proves to be very entertaining.


2. Imelda May – “Psycho”
I was searching for some psycho-billy songs the other day, stemming from my love of the group Social Distortion, and came across this wonderful Irish chanteuse and her ability to bring rockabilly songs into the new Millennium.  The song is a freaky exploration of madness, but with the charm of a 50’s bop that just squeals.  There is great guitar work and vocal acrobatics. 


3. The Creepshow – “The Garden”
Looking for a chilled out late night song around Halloween, I discovered this lovely morbid tale of the dead from this group.  This sultry songstress caress your ear with her breathy eulogy that calms you in the midst of a grave yard.  Its melodic macabre sound really puts the last nail in the coffin of lost love. 


4. Porcelain Black – “Who’s Next”
Believe it or not, this is a Lil’ Wayne protégé.  She has all of the monster rock rhythm of Marilyn Manson, and the cuteness of Britney Spears.  I hate to compare her to anyone else out there, but if you just listen to this track, you will find your own love of this artist, if you love the previous one’s mentioned.  I want to meet this gal, but am afraid of what she’ll do to me.


5. Dirty Harry – “Frayed At The Edges
I was watching a BBC reality show where they teach a non-rocker how to rock out, and Dirty Harry was the vocal coach for a gal from Cambridge.  After the show aired, this blonde minx relocated to L.A. and started to rock up the scene. This was one of her first contributions–a good start I think.

6. Alexx Calise – “Out Of Sight
Alexx, a fellow Cancerian, found her way into my inbox when I was reading press releases a few years ago.  She has a wide sound and a good soul.  She rips her heart open for catharsis but is gentle on your ear.  Young and inspired, she will be around for some time.

7. The Fabulous Miss Wendy – “Crazy Fucked Up Bitch
[Video Not Age Appropriate, but I'm sure you can find it]
I met this great guitarist when she opened up for a Nashville Pussy show a few years back.  She is what Prince would term—Fitly Cute.  She plays up her little girl lost aspect while rocking out.  She has been around the block a few times, with some rock Gods, so she’s experienced.

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