THE EDITED PRESS RELEASE: “In 2001, Los Angeles power pop label Smile Records launched with its first releases by The Knack, Brian Wilson’s future backing band The Wondermints, Americana singer-songwriter Carla Olson and Romantics guitarist Coz Canler’s Supremium. To celebrate the label’s 20th anniversary, Smile Records is re-releasing several titles including Hutch’s Turn It Around, an underground power-pop favorite by the artist now known as Joe Normal.
New Jersey-cum-California rocker Joe Normal (previously known as Hutch) and his band The Anytown’rs are comprised of members of Dramarama, Izzy Stradlin’s band, The Zeros and Aimee Mann’s band. Often compared to artists such as Paul Westerberg, Bruce Springsteen and Jesse Malin, Joe’s Hutch album Turn It Around re-release will connect with listeners of Little Steven’s Underground Garage, indie rock channels and and U.S. college radio.
The title track Turn It Around comes as a timely reminder, albeit 20 years after its initial release, an anthem of resistance and reminder to stay positive, offering encouragement and optimism in these uncertain times. However, the disc’s biggest treat is the five bonus tracks, which include a glam rockin’ cover of Buddy Holly’s Maybe Baby and the spaced-out guitar attack and hooky vocal harmonies of Love Takes Time (She’s Got Me Flying) featuring Imperial Drag drummer Eric Skodis. Fans of Cheap Trick and The Smithereens will enjoy re-discovering this previous effort by Joe Normal, one of underground rock and pop’s authentic greats.”
