Singer-songwriter Chris Good released his first CD in December, 2000, entitled Capital Will Kill You. The disc features 18 original songs, performed on electric and acoustic guitar, with lyrics about daily life in the contemporary post-industrial world. "There's music in here about economics, religion, love and weapons testing," said Good, "all the things you might think about during your drive to work." The 18 songs average less than three minutes apiece, and cover styles ranging from standard acoustic folk (New Mexico Skies) to good old fashioned punk rock (Feels Like Fired.) The lyrics can pack a punch. The title song describes examples from history and contemporary instances of lives being sacrificed for profit. The chorus repeats the truism that "Capital will kill you if you get in their way."

"We're going backward in so many ways," says Good. "Our hypermediated culture separates us and tells us that fulfillment comes from driving the right car and wearing clothes that advertise the right designer. People begin to lose faith that collective action can improve human life and dignity, but history shows us that it's true."

But "Capital Will Kill You" is not all leftist ranting. The songlist also includes "Bud" which really amounts to a love song to a dog.

"He was an elderly gentleman, and unfortunately he passed away this summer," says Good. "He'd had three owners and was a champion dogsled racer. I just really wish he could have told us his stories. And that's what that song's about."

Good's songs are short, but the melody and lyrics can make you think, and occasionally make you smile.

Here are two songs from "Capital Will Kill You":

• Capital Will Kill you
• Hey Big Fat White Christian Lady

You can get this record at Soundwave CDs at the corner of Lakeside and Moana in Reno, and it's also available at Amazon.com, but please buy it at Soundwave, because they're local. Or you can just e-mail me at goodc@gbis.com to get one.