CD Fit for Vinyl: KAI REINER - Self-Titled LP

In his online biography, Hamburg's Kai Reiner says that being dragged to a Brian Wilson concert against his will just a couple years ago changed his life and inspired him to play pop music. It's a bit hard to believe his conversion was so instant and recent, as his 2008 debut, self-titled LP sounds more like the work of someone who has been lovingly listening to power pop music for years.

From the opening chords of track number one, "Cold Summer," it's obvious that this record is tailor made to appeal to any power pop enthusiast. The hooks are plentiful, the melodies pristine and the delivery sincere. As the record progresses it doesn't let down, with "Only We Both Know," "Hey K," "I Don't Want Your Crown" and "It's Over" all boasting instantly memorable melodies and spoonfuls of pop sweetness. Closing track "Shine" is another highlight, featuring an excellent chugging beat, an addictive guitar riff and contemplative lyrics. Most of the material is upbeat yet bittersweet, a mood made more pronounced by Reiner's earnest, almost deadpan vocal delivery. Musically, many of the songs bring to mind the power pop classic "Black Vinyl Shoes" by Shoes, with the material's fuzzy guitars and straightforward, unassuming vibe.

If you're into pop music with 60s-inspired melodies, loads of hooks and jangly guitars, this one is definitely worth a listen. Besides, any musician that ends his bio with, "Kai has become a much friendlier person now that he plays Pop music. Henry is Kais dog. Henry is a nuisance. He has to be taken for a walk twice a day. If not, he will take it out on the furniture," surely deserves plenty of fans.

You can say hello to Kai on MySpace and pick up the CD on CD Baby.

For a taste, here's the video to "Cold Summer."

CD Fit for Vinyl: MICHELE ARI - 85th and Nowhere

There is no doubt that Michele Ari's debut six song EP, 2005's 85th and Nowhere, sounds like it were made for vinyl. Ari is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter, but not one you'll likely find playing coffeehouses solo with an acoustic guitar. Her preferred style is rocking out with a full band, and her tuneful songs feature clear new wave and power pop leanings.

The six songs on 85th and Nowhere are fresh and captivating, while calling upon some of the most sonically pleasing elements of rock and roll's past. Not only does Ari reference late 70s new wave and power pop, she also looks to R.E.M.-styled early alternative rock and the sweet, impeccable melodies of 60s pop. Think Debbie Harry meets Ronnie Spector with a dash of Michael Stipe.

The EP begins with the smoky My Sleeping Beauty, which has a bit of a Killing Moon vibe, and the jangling, pretty pop gem Please. The title track and Nevermind are a bit more straightforward and aggressive in a Nick Lowe sort of way, setting off the dreamier numbers nicely. Pretty is a bluesy slow burner that crescendos into something truly special and serves as an effective centerpiece to the collection, while the sweet, vulnerable 1000 Kisses closes the EP on an upbeat note.

Ari's vocals are relaxed and unpretentious, exuding 10 times more emotion and inspiration than any of mainstream radio's current pop crazes.

She is currently working on a full-length album, due for release later this year.

Check out some tracks from 85th and Nowhere on MySpace, and pick up a real copy on CD Baby or a digital copy on iTunes.

FOR FANS OF:
Blondie, Nick Lowe, R.E.M., Patti Smith, Ronnie Spector

CD Fit for Vinyl: DAVE DILL - Follow the Summer

While the music of indie singer-songwriter Dave Dill comes in CD form, it sounds tailor-made for any vinyl-loving power pop fan.

Dill's latest album, Follow the Summer, flows with a cool 70s vibe reminiscent of power pop pioneers such as Badfinger and Big Star, while at the same time bringing to mind the most honest, authentic modern-day pop songwriting by the likes of Michael Penn and Matthew Sweet.

The album's artwork and title don't lie - this is is breezy, summery stuff - but not to a super-sugary, bubblegum extent. Most of Dill's melodies only fully reveal themselves after a few listens, making for an overall more rewarding sonic experience filled with a various musical textures, swirling harmonies and innovative instrumentation.

Highlights include Happily Ever After and Don't Remember, a pair of hook-filled, up-tempo rockers, as well as the melodic, Pete Ham-esque ballad You Don't Believe It and the dreamy, lengthy album centerpiece Follow the Summer/Pink Skies.

Dill's pure vocals shine throughout, often channeling Brian Wilson and always meshing perfectly with the warm, sunny music. Follow the Summer is perfect listening for a hazy summer day.

Pick up a copy at CD Baby or Not Lame, or download the album on iTunes.

FOR FANS OF:
The Beatles, Badfinger, Michael Penn, Big Star, Matthew Sweet, Jon Brion

WEB LINKS:
- Dave Dill official site
- Dave Dill MySpace