Ann Courtney Ben Byleen Lizzie Carena David Giambusso Michael Lupo
Influences
Cynthia Hopkins PJ Harvey wretchedness dinner covetous yearning Loretta Lynn Talking Heads the Pixies barometric pressure Peggy Lee mommy and daddy Radiohead Memphis Minnie planetary alignment hormones
Sounds Like
"In one moment, Ann Courtney fronts this bright-eyed bushy-tailed quintet with a wicked self-assurance and rock moxie. In the next, she lays herself bare with the dulcet tremors of heartache. Peggy Lee meets the Pretenders in a happy collision of rosy ballads and rag rock."
-Arthur Schnakenburg, The Brooklyn Post
Ann Courtney & the Late Bloomers have emerged from the studio at long last and are pleased to announce the April 2009 release of their first full-length record, “Crocodile.”
Engineered by the masterful Jim Bentley at The Fort, the album’s ballads, dirges, and victory marches are driven by Ms. Courtney’s impassioned vocals and the band’s insatiable rock appetite.
Thanks to the good offices of the Cougar Label, “Crocodile” was released for widespread consumption on April 28, 2009.
Here's what people are saying about "Crocodile:"
"What sets Ann Courtney, who evokes the snarl of Chrissie Hynde, apart from other indie-rock performers that cast a cynical eye toward romantic entanglements is the versatile way she belts out these caustic observations rather than settling for a one-note or gimmicky vocal style. Crocodile also proves that she and David Giambusso are inventive guitarists." - Illinois Entertainer
"Courtney's main contemporary across Crocodile is PJ Harvey from both a vocal and songwriting perspective. Along with hints of old school Liz Phair and the grandiose instrumental explosions of Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, the relative newcomer provides a passionate and pummeling ten-track affair." - Hear/Say Magazine
“…an incredibly strong debut with enough energy to power a small nuclear plant.” – Collected Sounds
“… a surprising range of styles, bound together by Ann's voice, which could be described as a uniquely splendid amalgam of Chrissie Hynde, PJ Harvey & Patti Smith, with a Loretta Lynn feel. Crocodile feels like that 'difficult' third album - done right.” - How Marvelous (UK music blog)
“Aggressive, Pretenders inspired rock and roll.” – The Midnight Café
“Courtney’s low register gives her cocky, sultry rockitude, which goes well with the swaggering pace.” - ReadJunk
“…passionate, brutal lyrics and steamy rhythms lasts through this entire album... an energetic and atmospheric journey in the darker corners of indie rock. A remarkably good album.” – Luna Kafe / Sweden
The new James Maddock album "Sunrise On Avenue C" is OUT NOW on Ascend Records. Take a sneak peak at his page! If you like it, you can buy it at iTUNES.
James also has aFACEBOOK PAGE and he'd love to stay connected with you there as well. Check out his page HERE and become a fan!
"Ticklin' The Strings" by Sweet Hollywaiians
Amazing Japanese hot string band playing 1920's, 30's, 40's style hawaiian, swing, calypso, blues, italian music and originals,featuring vintage instruments.3 songs with Robert Armstrong and Tony Marcus(from Robert Crumb and His Cheap Suit Serenaders)
"The Sweet Hollywaiians have probably the best feel for this 20's music of any string band working today. They manage the rare feat of sounding relaxed even when their playing is hot, are top notch musicians with tasteful arrangements and a full, rich, warm sound.Plus, they have a nice gamut of tunes, from King Nawahi to Giovanni Vicari to Bobby Leecan. See them live, if you can, for an unforgettable experience. If you can't, buy their Cds!" ~ Terry Zwigoff
Please come out this Thursday night at midnight to Rockwood Music Hall. Very special band playing with me, and you know, it's been a while, and remember, you really really like me. Remember?
I am a novelist with a new book coming out in 3 weeks. I've stared posting excerpts in my MySpace blog. I just put up the full third chapter. I invite you to check it out (well, start with Chapter One.)
