CD REVIEWS
By Michael Swanger scenescribe@mchsi.com
Crystal City
“Crystal City”
Sleep On the Floor Records
Formed last summer in Marshalltown, Crystal City is the folk-pop lovechild of Dave Helmer and Sam Drella who cite ’70s singer-songwriters Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris and Paul Westerberg as influences on their debut, self-titled album recently released by Des Moines-based Sleep On the Floor Records. To an extent, Helmer and Drella have adopted the musically spacious, singer-songwriter format of the ’70s in building the framework of their music. However, lyrically and in chord structures, they seem to be more akin to modern day indie-rock bands. Bouncing tunes like “Baby Says She Loves Me” and “Sleep It Off, Suzie” find the duo’s harmonies at their best, as Helmer and Drella demonstrate musical compatibility. But Drella’s soaring vocal part on the bluesy ballad “Bricks” excels. CV
(Crystal City opens for The Lonesome Heroes on Tuesday, June 15 at 10 p.m. at the Vaudeville Mews. Admission is $5.)
Lil’ Flip
“Underground Legend 2”
Clover G Records
Houston-based rapper Lil’ Flip won popularity when his “U Gotta Feel Me” album and “The Way We Roll” single sold in the millions about six years ago. Unfortunately, each subsequent album he has released has not measured up in sales, despite collaborations with notable artists like Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes. But guest appearances by other rappers like C-Note and Bizzy Bone helped make “Underground Legend” one of Flip’s best albums since “U Gotta Feel Me,” so it wasn’t a surprise that he would release a follow-up. “Underground Legend 2” is a success thanks to its 21 tracks that include skits and easy flowing rhymes about having money and fun. “She Like My Swagger,” “Trunk Banging Hard” and “Stiletto Hustla” stand out. CV
(Lil’ Flip performs Saturday, June 12 at 9:30 p.m. at the House of Bricks. Skatterman and DJKwickstarr open. Tickets are $15.)
