Faster and Louder
Punk and rock n’ roll reviews from Lord Rutledge and friends
Rectifier, the fourth Amplifier Heads album in four years, is a full-on celebration of rock and roll. Coming in at a lean and mean nine tracks, this Rum Bar Records CD release continues the songwriting roll that Sal Baglio has been on since 2019. With The Amplifier Heads, the former Stompers singer/guitarist finds himself unhampered by stylistic restrictions. Rectifier, like its predecessors, brings to mind everything from garage rock to the British Invasion to glam rock to power pop to early rock and roll. I recently had the opportunity to interview Baglio about the album on an episode of Born Too Late. Perhaps we should have temporarily re-named the show Born At the Right Time since Baglio is of that generation that does remember rock ‘n’ roll radio! As a songwriter, he’s influenced by all of that incredible music he grew up on in the ’60s and ’70s. In these songs, you’ll hear hints of everyone from Berry to the Beatles to Bolan, yet it all comes out sounding uniquely like Sal Baglio.
Running less than 25 minutes, Rectifier is a perfect little album to enjoy the old school way: pop in the CD, grab a tasty beverage, relax, and enjoy some timeless rock and roll! This album was born out of the success of the single “Space Cadette,” which Baglio wrote for Norty Cohen’s musical They Came To Rock. Malibu Lou figured that a smash hit like “Space Cadette” ought to be the centerpiece of an album. Baglio promptly worked his magic, and Rectifier came to be. The garage rock stomper (no pun intended, I swear!) “Space Cadette” is the album’s literal and figurative centerpiece, but there are hits up and down the line. Bookended by the anthems “The Man Who Invented Rock and Roll” and “Rock Rules” are ace tracks such the triumphant sing-along “Underground” (a tribute to that magical place where rock and roll remains alive and well), the high energy rocker “Maniaxe,” and the mesmerizing acoustic cut “Headhunter.” Honestly, there’s not a bad track in the bunch. Baglio, in his typical style, comes up with song titles that sound like sci-fi/horror B-movies but turn out to be so much more than that (“Monsters” is truly profound).
Rectifier is available now from the Rum Bar lounge and directly from The Amplifier Heads webstore. If you’re been searching for that place where the music is loud and groovy, look no further!
Lord Rutledge
https://fasterandlouderblog.blogspot.com/2022/12/the-amplifier-heads-rectifier.html
Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon Concerts, Movie & TV Car Show – June 30 – July 2, 2023 242 Adams Pl. Boxborough MA, 01719
Attention all music and pop culture enthusiasts! Get ready to be blown away by the incomparable Sal Baglio at Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon 2023! This extraordinary event brings together the very best of music, pop culture, and collectibles for an unparalleled experience. From rare vinyl records to captivating comic books and vintage toys, you’ll find a treasure trove of coveted items that will make any collector’s heart skip a beat. And that’s just the beginning!
Picture this: the stage is set, the lights are dimmed, and the air is charged with anticipation. As the crowd erupts in thunderous applause, Sal Baglio takes his rightful place at the center, ready to unleash a musical storm that will leave you breathless. With each strum of his guitar, each lyric that escapes his lips, you’ll be transported to a world where time stands still and music becomes the very essence of your being. Baglio’s electrifying presence, soul-stirring lyrics, and masterful guitar skills create a symphony of emotions that will resonate within you long after the final chord fades away. It’s a performance that defies description, an experience that words simply can’t capture.
But the excitement doesn’t end with Baglio’s powerhouse performance alone. The Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon 2023 boasts a star-studded lineup of music legends that will leave you breathless. Brace yourself for a nostalgic journey as you revel in the timeless talent of Micky Dolenz, the legendary voice of The Monkees. Be captivated by the magnetic presence of Cherie Currie as she takes you on a sonic adventure. These are just a few of the awe-inspiring performers who will grace the stage, ensuring an unforgettable experience that will be etched in your memory forever.
Prepare to feast your eyes on the spectacle of the Movie & TV Car Show. Step into a world where iconic vehicles from your favorite films and television shows come to life. Immerse yourself in the magic of the big and small screens as you witness firsthand the vehicles that have become part of our cultural fabric. From the timeless elegance of vintage cars to the awe-inspiring machines that fueled our childhood dreams, the Movie & TV Car Show promises a visual feast that will transport you straight into the heart of your favorite stories.
Now, let’s talk collectibles. Imagine wandering through a wonderland of rare vinyl records, autographed posters, musical instruments, and books that pay homage to the lives and works of esteemed artists. It’s a treasure trove of discoveries for every enthusiast, a place where your passion for music and pop culture can truly flourish. Connect with fellow fans, share stories, and reignite that spark that first drew you to the magic of music and pop culture. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a community of like-minded individuals who understand the power and beauty of these art forms.
So mark your calendars for June 30 to July 2, 2023, and make your way to the vibrant venue located at 242 Adams Pl. in Boxborough, MA 01719. Prepare to be swept away by the extraordinary convergence of music, pop culture, and collectibles at Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon 2023. It’s an experience that will ignite your senses, rejuvenate your spirit, and leave you with priceless memories to cherish for a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey—join us and let the magic unfold!