Review: 'Schizosonic' a step in the right direction

By Eric Lochridge, Journal Copy Editor | Friday, August 13, 2004

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Abby SomeOne - "Schizosonic" (CD and DVD)

Abby SomeOne continues to up the ante, releasing not only a CD but also a concert DVD. "Schizosonic" features 10 songs, including the new single "Fall Down," and a three-song-plus-bonus-features DVD.

One of the hardest-working bands in the Black Hills, Abby SomeOne remains on the verge of a breakthrough.

The band's calendar includes upcoming performances in Wyoming, Colorado and Ohio. If that's not regional exposure, I don't know what is.

The CD part of "Schizosonic" is mostly songs recycled from the band's previous CDs. But that's OK. Shawn Michael Bitz, the mastermind of the band's ever-shifting lineup, has proved that he can write songs. Now, it's just a matter of getting them into people's heads.

For now, that means repackaging the best of what the band has produced since its debut CD in 1998 and offering a DVD snippet of the band in concert.

Tom Haggerty and Friends - "Live! A Thankful Heart"

Also released recently is a new CD from Tom Haggerty and Friends. "Live! A Thankful Heart" brings out local Christian musician Haggerty and a slew of companions for 18 inspirational tracks.

We last heard from Haggerty a few years ago with "It's Alive," a rocking disc of in-your-face Christianity. The new CD expands on that with its roster of performers, including famed local fiddler Kenny Putnam.

"A Thankful Heart" offers a mix of Haggerty-written tunes and classic church songs.

Doug Wollman - "Face of the Deep"

Speaking of inspiration, Doug Wollman's instrumental music does the trick without uttering a word.

Of course, keyboard instrumentals unavoidably garner the new-age label, and "Face of the Deep" certainly flirts with that genre. Tagged as "inspired by the sights and sounds of creation ... pondering the depths of the ocean to the simplicity of the prairie," the music uplifts the listener and accomplishes the goals of relaxation and appreciation of life. It's rooted in Christianity, but the music doesn't exclusively define itself that way.

The CD notes reveal an abundance of enthusiasm and philosophical thinking.

Wollman, of Rapid City, is at work on his next project, according to his Web site.

Eric Lochridge is a Journal copy editor who writes about music. Call him at 394-8425 or send e-mail to eric.lochridge@rapidcityjournal.com. If you have a CD for review, send it to or drop it off at the Journal newsroom, 507 Main St., Rapid City, SD 57701.