"Terminal Ballistics Vol. 1"

By Rachel Allinder

Big Bullet Records released their first compilation record on September 21st, 2009.  The compilation is called “Terminal Ballistics Vol. 1” and features fifteen artists associated with the label. The compilation features a variety of music styles and artists.

Greg Loftus’ “The Good Fight” is an alt-country/folk-rock song, with an acoustic guitar and light band behind him. Greg is from Massachusetts but plays in the area sometimes.  

Track 2 is Jude Universer featuring Birthday Boy with the song “California”.  This is a fun “pop” song with a definite influence from the band Weezer.  

Dandelion Snow, a band from New York who frequently plays in Shepherdstown is also featured on the compilation. They have an angstie-teenage-bedroom musical sound. The band is generally comprised of a guy and a girl who harmonize excellently together and add to the eclectic-ness of the compilation.  

From Morgantown, The Dreadful Horoscope is also featured on the compilation. With pseudo grunge sound, “I Walked Down To The River” is a sad song that gets your blood moving with an almost Neil Young sounding energy.  

Prison Book Club’s “Home It Ain’t Here” sounds like rock and roll had a baby with George Jones.  This crisp recording enhances the professionalism of the compilation. Khaos Kloud is pleasantly the sore thumb on the record. Not suggesting anything…but this is definitely reminiscent of Beastie Boys.  With a rock/rap style of three white boys, this is definitely the best dance song on the compilation.  

Last on the record is Cait O’Shea’s “Magnets”.  Cait O’Shea is a goddess who performs her own songs, generally only accompanied with a ukulele or an acoustic guitar.  Her soft and lovely music is crafted for a more personal style.  

Other artists on the compilation are Roma Renegade, Stephen MacDonald, The Demon Beat, The G- - - - - - - Hills, Tucker Riggleman, The Resonators, BLACK FAG!, and Woodworkings. Overall the compilation is good, it is a nice mix with songs from so many bands that chances are, you’re going to like something.

Grade:  4/5 stars

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