I’ve changed the name of my review posts at least three times. None of them really completely fit. I’ve tended to write reviews of albums and singles I enjoy. Some are short, some are longer. I’m just writing what I feel in the moment as I listen.

More and more artists are releasing tracks either one at a time or in the form of a three- to five-song EP. I kept waiting for formats to align with one another before piecing them together. Well, that day is done.

I have a LOT to do this year, and a LOT to listen to. So I’m gonna do all I can to listen to music as it comes to me, then write about it in the moment. Long or short, you’re getting my impressions in the moment, off the top of my head.

DOG RACE, Return the Day (Fascination Street Records, 2025). It can’t be a coincidence that London-based glam-groovers Dog Race are on a record label called Fascination Street, because their sound definitely parallels that of The Cure, only more upbeat. The band takes what was great about the electronic grooves of the eighties and turns it into something fresh. The tight grooves are built for movement and theatricality. This is a fun EP, particularly for those with a sentimental weakness for that classic sound.

LAMP, One of Us (2025). Russ Lawton (drums), Scott Metzger (guitar), and Ray Paczkowski (keyboards) are cool, groovy and funky as the rip their way through 40 minutes of air-tight musical muscle. Heads bob and feet tap involuntarily from Note One. LaMP is a party band without the drunken silliness. Grab yourself a beverage and get up on the one.

HAPPY THE MAN, Happy the Man and Crafty Hands 2025 Remasters (1976 and ‘77). Progressive rock often seems to carry a European pedigree (not that there’s anything wrong with that), but Happy the Man gives Americans more than a little to cheer about. When these albums were originally released, disco and punk ruled the music scene. But there were still bands out there eager to show their virtuosity and proving themselves worth the listen. Your Honor, we present Exhibit A. Remastering these records puts a lively new sheen on the old house, even though the bones were still in great shape.

#cirdecsongs

If you would like to have your music reviewed or have your band photographed while in Chicago, contact me at cirdecsongs@gmail.com