Sean Coleman & The Quasars - "I'm A Man" 

People say Rock 'n' Roll is dead (and in a way it is with all the crap that comes out these days labeling themselves as Rock 'n' Roll), but after one listen of New York-based rockers Sean Coleman & The Quasars, you're going to think differently and feel that Rock 'n' Roll has never left. 

Now I'll admit, I actually don't own this record as I don't own a record player (crazy, I know). However, I have heard all three of these songs and all I can say is (and excuse my French) but holy @#$%ing shit, this is good! This is how I like my Rock 'n' Roll to sound; no gimmicks, just great musicianship.

I had the pleasure of seeing these guys at the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend and they blew me away. Definitely one of the highlights of the whole weekend. With Sean Coleman's razor sharp vocals, the powerful riffs of Mick Hanson on guitar, thunderous saxophone by Jay McMahon, Jeff Feinberg constant energy on the bass, and Kevin Hudson pounding the skins like no other, this band is meant to be seen live!

The title track on Side A "I'm A Man" hits you like a ton of bricks, you immediately start bobbing your head and play air guitar (well that's what I would do). On Side B, the song "Count On Me" is a great stroll number and my favorite on the record. You'll be singing "Baby, baby, baby you can count on me" in your head all week. The last song "Ruckus Juice" is a booming number that should get you dancing on the floor and maybe start a couple of fights at the bar. Either way, this is a best way to close out the record. My only criticism is that it's not enough, I want to hear more!

If you're living or even visiting New York, do yourself a favor and catch these guys at a club near you, and pick up this record while you're at it. 

Here are a couple of photos from their set at Viva Las Vegas.

                     

Ricky Fabian - Pictures

Rhythm Bomb Records

I had the chance to catch Ricky Fabian on the last night of the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend this year in Brendan's Pub, where the room was filled with cigarette smoke. While I probably second-hand smoked about hundred packs that night, that didn't take away from enjoying a great performance by the Berlin born rocker. I picked up his latest album "Pictures" from Rhythm Bomb Records and have to say I haven't stop listening to it since I got back! 

This album is twelve tracks of catchy Rockabilly in the vein of early Elvis Presley and Ricky Nelson. No frills, which is what I like, with bands today trying to be different and out there. It's nice to see a musician really bring a classic sound yet makes it his own. 

The opening song "Believe In Me" is perfect for hitting the road. The female harmonies really compliment Ricky Fabian's voice, which would continue to the next song "Put A Spell on Me". We get a real rocker with "When I'm Gone" which I'm instantly reminded of Elvis Presley. Ricky slows it down with the next song "Hideaway Blues" featuring Ruby Ann. It's a Western ballad for when the sun goes down on a desert country road. With the next three songs  "Big Ole Bag", "Skinny Jeannie", and a cover of "Cindy Cindy" should get you moving on the dance floor, if not, you don't have a soul or two left feet, as long as you're clapping. 

Things slow down with a cover of The Shirelle's song "A Thing Of The Past", which should make the ladies swoon. The next (and my favorite) is "Starlite", a beautiful, catchy love song that should be on the mix tape (or CD) for that one girl who would probably reject you anyway, but hey you made an awesome mix. Anyways… the next song "Try Again" is a twangy number that sounds very reminiscent of Johnny Burnette when he went solo.

For some reason, the next song "Julie Anne", much like "Starlite" hit me the most. While I don't know a Julie Anne, you can replace the name and pretty much brings you back to a nostalgic time when you had your first crush. The album ends with the ballad "Sunset Girl" featuring Cherry Casino, the perfect song to book end this album. 

"Pictures" is the album you listen to after a perfect first date or a devastating break-up as you drive in your 50's cadillac down a long road and the sun begins to set. 

Do yourself a favor and pick this one at the Rhythm Bomb Records shop and make sure to catch Ricky Fabian at a Rockabilly weekender near you!