■ The Reds® (from Philadelphia, PA) follow-up their critically acclaimed 2007 album, Fugitives From The Laughing House, with a rock n' roll noir in three acts entitled, Early Nothing. The record was made over a period of time, developing a hypnotic quality leaving the listener free to let the subconscious play itself out, no matter where it goes, maintaining the simplicity of the moment. If you thought The Reds® couldn't get any heavier or darker . . . . you've been warned. Rick Shaffer's shattered guitars, and Bruce Cohen's insane sonic keyboards are still there, but bigger. Although, a pure focus of what came before, and continues to inspire them is never more present. Shaffer and Cohen keep exploring their own stream of conscious. The bass and drums supply the bottom and rhythm section from hell, sounding like the bastard child of The Velvet Underground. While Shaffer's vocals sound like a man alone on a starless night, shouting his dark hoodoo against the uncertainty of the world around him. ■ The First Act of Early Nothing starts with, Big Boy, a loud, heavy, stomping menace with metallic guitars and pulsing, grinding organ, combined with lyrics that are not what you think they are, or are they? Sidebuster and Diggin' It, two groove oriented pieces, blend a roots synthesis with relentless, pounding drums, swaying maracas and guitars. An insular blues feel, with Hammond Organ strokes like a late 60's burn at its very best, and synth adding just the right amount