More than three decades after putting out the seminal Berserkley Chartbusters Vol. 1 compilation – the album that introduced the world at large to power pop heroes like the Rubinoos, Jonathan Richman and Greg Kihn – the label’s founder Matthew King Kaufman is at it again. Continue reading “MP3 Jackpot Winners CD Vol. 1 – Compiled by Matthew King Kaufman”
Tag: rock
Tony Alva – Opal Book Club
Tony Alva and Jay Adams are names synonymous with modern skateboarding. E. Blake Davis’ song about these fearless boarding pioneers is about as irreverent and off the wall as they were. Opal Book Club is one rockin’ trio and they drop in on this track like urethane wheels on a fresh dry southern California pool. This is an instant classic and I’m glad it was picked to be on the first MP3 Jackpot compilation.
It Takes Money – Hobo
This is a very timely song about a subject there seem to be an awful lot of opinions about. Great song, great singer is such a winning combination.
Fell In and Out of Art – Stiff Richards
Stiff Richards got it right. I fall in and out of things all the time. I only wish I could write a song this good about it.
P.M.F. – Black Pole
Bloody timeless track from east bay champs of the 90’s thrash funk era, Black Pole. They do say “punk motherfucker” quite a lot so yeah, parental advisory or whatever. This band was truly amazing live, and this track was recorded live in the studio. That’s right, no pro-tools tomfoolery, kidz, this went down, just as you hear it. Was really glad Matthew picked this for the first MP3 Jackpot comp. Enjoy.
Mr. Ed – Sex 4 Moderns
A song about a talking horse, of course of course. Trust me, this one really works.
Fish In a Tree – Hobo
This masterpiece by the Berkeley combo Hobo is powerpop at its best. The vocal performance is extraordinary, and the lyrics cascade images and poetry full of music fun.
Hobbit Love – The Gazillions
This rare pop gem from Berkeley-based garage band the Gazillions defies description, but the title speaks for itself. Fronted by the inimitable David Hollogram, this remarkable group only played together long enough to do a few legendary gigs and release an amazing album called “The Gazillions Have Landed.”
I Am a Janitor – Surface Music
This song was a regular on Video West. It’s full of fun, the singer extols janitoral joy to all who will listen. I listened over a hundred times. What’s wrong with me?
I Want You Dead – Repulsa
You have to love her passion. There is only one Repulsa and this is her trademark song. Enjoy or die.