Grand Mal
(Empty Gate) CDR $7.00
Eleven songs of a slightly different flavor than the punk-leaning indie-pop of the band for which singer Patricia Howard is best known (Vomit Launch). Grand Mal leans toward weirdo garage-rock, which is no surprise given the band’s pedigree: guitarist Bob Howard (The Vesuvians, The Asskickers, Termite); bassist Mark Zempel (Fang of Gore, Folkenstein); keyboardist Greg Spont (Black Fong); and drummer Matt Coogan. “The most striking link is, of course, Howard’s vocals,” says the Chico News And Review. “The lyrics are intelligent and often poetic … and her rough-hewn voice is as evocative ever.” Includes coupon for free download.