Post by jptheprofessor on Sept 7, 2008 21:56:27 GMT -5
THE JASON MARTINKO REVUE – DAMAGED GOODS (Bonedog Records) There aren’t too many bands around that go to the lengths of producing their own horror movies to promote themselves. But Pittsburgh’s Jason Martinko Revue did just that last year, releasing their combination slasher-horror/live performance flick Gone the Way of Flesh. The film’s punk-driven title song closes The Jason Martinko Revue’s latest CD, Damaged Goods. Namesake Jason Martinko sings and plays guitar; flanked by drummer, organist and bassist Jordan McMillen, bassist Craig Bolton (since replaced by Nick Scuglia), tenor saxophonist Steve Jacobs and several guest musicians and backing singers. Various flavors come to play over the album’s baker’s dozen tracks, as the group blends lively rockabilly, swing, punk, R&B and more. The Jason Martinko Revue delivers abundant gusto and swagger on rockabilly-geared numbers like the opening track “Here She Comes Walkin,’” “I’m Goin’ Home (To See My Baby)” and “The Thief,” as well as the funk/swing workout “Funky Boogie.” Martinko provides blue-eyed soul tones on such numbers as “Belladonna,” the slower ode to motherly wisdom “Sometimes It Rains” and a gospel-tinged remake of the traditional “Mornin’ Train.” A few curios punctuate the album’s course; including the surf-meets-swing instrumental “Rattletrap,” and two curiously ‘untitled’ tracks, “Untitled #39” and “Untitled #152,” respectively showing funk and honky tonk musical flavors along with violent lyrical themes. Jason Martinko’s voice blends Van Morrison/Peter Wolf-styled soulfulness with a punk shouter spirit, while he and his band constantly bring the fire with freewheeling, caution-to-the-wind performances. McMillen’s drum beats are punchy, and the guitar and horns constantly match wits and complement each other well. Produced by the band and Jeff Ingersoll and recorded at The Mojo Boneyard in McKeesport, Damaged Goods sounds sharp, with Martinko’s voice ringing out front and center, and the instruments coming through clearly and providing the punchy backdrop. The mix is lean and uncluttered, topped with a slightly abrasive edge. The Jason Martinko Revue’s unique blend of roots-based musical styles and horror-punk overtones makes Damaged Goods a curious but ultimately entertaining listen, and it will be interesting to hear how the group further develops this blend on future recordings. (The CD can be obtained through The Jason Martinko Revue’s website, www.thejasonmartinkorevue.com.)