Lollipop Magazine

Refused – The E.P. Comp CD – Review

August 16, 2004

Promises unreleased and ancient goodies, but merely repackages available material. The European version has the first two demos and a fuckload of bonus songs.

Speedealer – Bleed – Interview

August 16, 2004

An interview with guitarist/vocalist Jeff Hirshberg

The Junior Varsity – The Great Compromise – Review

August 16, 2004

On the debut from Chicago post-punk group The Junior Varsity, the moody pop of old Jimmy Eat World tracks meets the viciously lovelorn lyrics of Alkaline Trio.

The Inevitable Breakups – No Wonder You’re So Beautiful – Review

August 16, 2004

The glossy guitars and hand-clapping on The Inevitable Breakups’ debut EP brings to mind hits like “867-5309 Jenny” and “Is She Really Going Out With Him?”

Matt Pond PA – Four Songs – Review

August 16, 2004

Though the first two entries aren’t anywhere near the band’s best moments (even the production is shabby), the two quiet closers make the EP worth the trip.

Clearlake – Cedars – Review

August 16, 2004

Not since The Delgados’ Hate have I heard an album so solid with marvelous structures, every hook and riff irresistible. They bloom, song after song.

Actionslacks – Full Upright Position – Review

August 16, 2004

Tim Scanlin likes hooks and melodies, and he makes sure you know it. Whether it’s a phasing keyboard line or a shout, the listener will not be able to resist.

Stratovarius – Elements Pt. 2 – Review

August 9, 2004

Raised on and characterized by Germans like Helloween and the Swedish offspring of Malmsteen, the band produce another multi-faceted model of consistency.

Roy – Big City Sin and Small Town Redemption – Review

August 9, 2004

Roy benefited from their tour with The Weakerthans. A sense of growth permeates this LP. Somewhere between later-era The Promise Ring and The Replacements.

Toys That Kill – Control the Sun – Review

August 9, 2004

There’s a smartass melodic bend and catchy phrasing that barely runs ahead of steamroller bass lines. Fans of The Adicts or The Briefs will be sold right away.