Noteworthy Efforts

Here are some capsule reviews of the latest CDs released by local bands or those groups that frequently play in the area.

The Uninvited, “The Uninvited” (Atlantic)

These local favorites following all those great shows at Nicholby’s in Ventura finally got signed, making probably the best album of the year. Not only is this the Uninvited’s big label debut, it’s also a greatest hits package since most of these songs were previously available on the band’s three self-produced albums. The band has a phenomenal body of work, and John and Steve Taylor are clever songwriters, plus they can really sing. Good songs abound, from “Down in Flames” to “Ordinary Man.” Pop rock on steroids and funny lyrics should make the Uninvited welcome on CD players from sea to shining sea.

GRADE: A

*

Cocktails From Hell, “Cocktails From Hell” (Gotta Go Recordings)

This notorious Santa Barbara band is actually mellowing somewhat, perhaps to the point of being the Cocktails From Heck. Not only are they practicing, but rumor has it that they can actually finish a gig without embarrassing themselves out the window of opportunity. This one has seven originals on it, driven by the duel guitars of Eric Eisenberg and Bill McLain and the swaggering vocals of front man Cecil B. DeMille, not the director but his grandson. Rockin’ punked-up blues, the Cocktails end things with their signature classic, “Girlfriend,” whose only lyrics are “My girlfriend can kick your girlfriend’s ass.”

GRADE: A-

Next gig: Aug. 21 at NYM in Santa Barbara.

*

Jeff Taylor, “Hurtin’ Game” (With These Hands)

This is smooth, well-crafted blues as concocted by a bunch of pros from L.A. who play up here occasionally. The licks are all in the right places and the production is first-rate. Taylor’s solos are economical and on target, and his vocals are convincing on the usual topics of whiskey and women, leavin’ and lovin’. Solid on all counts.

GRADE: A-

*

Harmonica Shorty and the Taildraggers, “Harmonica Shorty and the Taildraggers” (Northside Records)

Shorty (a.k.a. Ken Sullivan) is easy to spot--he’s the short guy wearing the white T-shirt and shades, and playing a giant harmonica. Perhaps the greatest blues band in all of Carpinteria, Sullivan wails all over this six-song CD of Chicago blues.

GRADE: B+

*

Shakeh, “Shakeh” (Bobara Records)

Shakeh is a rock ‘n’ roll Brentwood gal who does original music that is part classic rock and part folk rock. Unfortunately, the lyrics are a veritable cliche festival, and the songs themselves are pedestrian and generic. Back to Songwriting 101.

GRADE: C-

Next gig: Sunday at Borders in Thousand Oaks.

*

Voodoo Glow Skulls, “Baile de Los Locos” (Epitaph)

There are 25 songs in 36 minutes on this one, so don’t expect any endless guitar excesses. Actually don’t expect a lot more than a bunch of punk kids screaming about who knows what? In English or Spanish, they will create the dance of the crazies in the mosh pit when they play live.

GRADE: D+

Next gig: Aug. 22 at the Ventura Theatre.

*

Tall Paul and the Brazos Band, “Travlin Bone” (Melting Pot)

This is basic barroom blues by Paul Keim and his pals, all strictly by the numbers stuff we’ve heard plenty of times before. Then again, not bad beer-slurping music.

GRADE: C+

*

Superdrag, “Head Trip in Every Key” (Elektra)

This Tennessee pop rock quartet emerges as a major talent on its second album, and John Davis can write a song as well anyone. Smart and funny with enough hooks to catch Moby Dick, this is perhaps what the Beatles would be like 30 years later. “I’m Expanding My Mind” and yet another speed freak soundtrack song, “Amphetamine,” are getting some airplay, but “Bankrupt Vibration” will really get you going with that hypnotic endless ending. This is one of the year’s best.

GRADE: A

Next gig: Aug. 20 at the Coach House in Santa Barbara.