SINGLES GOING STEADY: "WEAR ME DOWN" BY TREBLE CHARGER

Treble Charger

Canada's Treble Charger specializes in a brand of power pop/punk similar to that of more popular bands like Sum 41, Good Charlotte, and—at times—Teenage Fanclub.  It's not my favorite kind of music, but when I hear a song that should have been a hit, I have to give the artist credit and recognition—no matter what section you'd find their CD in.  The should-have-been hit we're discussing today is "Wear Me Down."  It's a polished, hook-filled, minor masterpiece.  It's the kind of song that is so infectious, you're able to sing along to the chorus after only hearing it once.  The verse and bridge are nearly just as singable.  My conclusion is that "Wear Me Down" should have hit the Top 40 or been the main song in a hit teenage sex comedy like American Pie.  To all the dedicated Sirius XM Alt Nation supporters, I present to you your lost anthem.  

"Wear Me Down" by Treble Charger

THE EVEN DOZEN JUG BAND

The Even Dozen Jug Band

The Even Dozen Jug Band was a one-off collaboration from 1964 and the first project for a couple seriously talented—and important—artists.  It's sort of amazing that music like this existed in 1964.  As far as folk music goes, it was one of the more pretentious periods of songwriting.  Topical folk songs written by "singing journalists" like Phil Ochs were very a la mode.  Even Dylan's pre-electric shift from apparent protest songs to love songs and confessional ballads was controversial in many Folk circles.  There was nothing topical about The Even Dozen Jug Band—though, if you ask me, "Evolution Mama" should be used in a evolution vs. Creationism documentary.  Their whole sound just reeks of fun.  It's super vaudelillian, filled with violins, guitars, mandolins, kazoos, harmonicas, washboards—you name it! Their interpretations of traditional songs are awesome.  Simply a joy to listen to.  

As I suggested earlier, The Even Dozen Jug Band was a bit of a launching pad for some seriously notable musicians.  These musicians included John Sebastian (lead vocalist and songwriter from The Lovin' Spoonful) and Maria Muldaur.   

The Even Dozen Jug Band

BILLY'S LIVE BAIT BY GEAR DADDIES

Billy's Live Bait by Gear Daddies

Gear Daddies are a 25-year old Minnesota Alt-Country/Country Rock staple.  Apparently, they still put on one helluva show.  Billie's Live Bait is their second album and it was released on Parlophone in 1990.  There aren't any gems here, however, everything is very listenable and well-written. Billy's Live Bait succeeds not because of epics and instant classics, but because of ordinary, likeable, small pleasures.  Such consistentcy makes this a worthwhile listen from start to finish.  It's a terrific album to have in your car for a long drive.  And now that I think of it, after a few listens, you'll probably find yourself singing along to "Stupid Boy," "Wear Your Crown," "Don't Look At Me" and "Gonna Change."  Minneapolis is a city that loves to rock.  But if your tastes are geared more to the Country side of the Twin Cities—like The Jayhawks, for example—Gear Daddies will reel you right in.

Billy's Live Bait by Gear Daddies