Album Notes

BRUISED, the fourth CD from independant favorite Swivek, blends rock and roll with post punk and even throws a little jazz and lounge into the fold.

You will hear the influences of such bands as Blondie, Pat Benatar, White Stripes and Iggy Pop. Included in this exciting collection is the first single "Who We Are" a catchy pop/rock confection. Other songs include the punchy rock version of "There Are Worse Things I Could Do" from the Grease soundtrack. A little ditty that will leave you saying "and I thought Rizzo was trashy and no good." Also included is the brand new single "Spastic Valentino" described as an ode to Iggy Pop but definitely mixed in with influences of Tuff Darts, Blondie and even Nick Gilder for the perfect nod to 70s CBGB punk and new wave. "Spastic Valentino" has just been released as the follow up to "Who We Are" and has also been hand selected to appear on the Kid Antrim Music Compilation to be released later this year.

The other tracks include the story of Dianne the vampire in "Night In My Veins", the metal induced "Over Your Shoulder" which tells the story of a paranoid speed freak and is inspired by the inner city occupants of downtown LA.

The Pat Benatar influence shines through on "Dangerous Strangers" a simple rock melody with lyrics actually written in 1987. It's the exact sound I have always thought the song should have. Another ditty from the past is "The Enemy" a song originally conceived in 1991 and finally available with the complete idea in audible form.

"Too Wonderful" is a reggae influenced pop song dedicated to lost love and regret while the title track "Bruised" takes another approach to the defensive line of love. "Orchidia" is an ambient fantasy tale involving a girl from the lost land of Babylon and her destiny. "Not Gonna Get" is the answer to all the prodding hands of an unwanted advance with a metallic pumping beat and guitars in dueling solos. It has been described as "Devo on crack" and I may just have to agree.

Bruised ends with a little ode to my Wisconsin roots. For many nights, I spent time at the Balboa Bay Club with my pals - the Balboa girls. "Voodoo Lounge" tells an offbeat story of just such a place and time.