tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44265236487530016532024-03-05T23:58:53.068-08:00Random Groover NotesRandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-58101895050632312322022-10-24T10:10:00.043-07:002022-12-07T16:24:09.127-08:00Scott Sawyer - Change of Scene<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KKFa04DK4iKUZZTcqzqeg3h2pL93LhhcI7YH5XAK5BP7DBcPdv2hB15xn0YCuyWisfJIPj_YdaWcAE9U0rr9DXjoPUqYyP2jllBlaT7sjG7qPpUwcdP6GaivNX-oW_WSKTlglu0GCFcWQN1fx13aM4JadQyN7pTizzDE-6uYw0wU5BrGAn5roz4H/s424/CoS-CD-Front_433x433_6in_web%20crop.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="424" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KKFa04DK4iKUZZTcqzqeg3h2pL93LhhcI7YH5XAK5BP7DBcPdv2hB15xn0YCuyWisfJIPj_YdaWcAE9U0rr9DXjoPUqYyP2jllBlaT7sjG7qPpUwcdP6GaivNX-oW_WSKTlglu0GCFcWQN1fx13aM4JadQyN7pTizzDE-6uYw0wU5BrGAn5roz4H/w472-h471/CoS-CD-Front_433x433_6in_web%20crop.jpg" width="472" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h1><span style="font-family: arial;">Released on 11/11/2022</span></h1><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">CD's & Vinyl at: <br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://scottsawyer.bandcamp.com/album/change-of-scene-2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="106" data-original-width="506" height="33" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzbAFQZftOiVkkHceferEF-1VFROpf7V-v9HSD0KzHqiIGsHJNIz0JOQ6kLZotRQZ3REe9MW3ltB0sn5-rLV8tcMqcyIcTwxmVPNgfGYDBM3iSYwx21O-y1pO6V_rhA1VvG2qPbo1NYfhekXea3Vp1zpW0_pv6agddDJ0vALXo8_czIfQWeAC2hkA/w155-h33/bandcamp-logo-2017-billboard-1548.webp" width="155" /></a></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://jonsawyer.net/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="67" data-original-width="319" height="31" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAblFCHSpufZAwByAl8qtbRibKy90wGDO3AAuIn77R4az3uYScRHZ3L1YW8zir0NM1wFgBwz_mbXJfrDITSupO-H9ZtYOR60kTFa3ft6nHzoy_H6qOC5_FdA8J3LEn_XuaVtOMHWE1nPbEOud8dbxbWuym23Jv_vhYZTPqU5wkdWvxujIgdjO9Ibf/w145-h31/jonsawyerDOTnet_logo.PNG" width="145" /></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.homegrownmusic.net/search/content/scott%20sawyer" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="112" data-original-width="313" height="56" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXMFons8FqWURRvs02a6kJ-tx-Rs0W2gQCNjO3qXd2ztvVhBpCohUKUmOyD4q59wWQ74EUv74FCZOK0IHrF6_FFry_0BDwHV7lNtGhpQuYr93E5lShp0Ivq2HYVjvhOJ8qfLZfG0kw_tT_wnBo1CVN6fG-YeJcZQrHRiu74JhUM8DVHCxuPh-tOyJl/w157-h56/HGMN_logo.jpg" width="157" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.ebay.com/usr/jonsawyer?_trksid=p2047675.m3561.l2559" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="1341" height="57" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9Tzyukd6cCvvVpeENI6-tvpnrU5xrIDW1YQ2Vz56Q5OIhOqHLpKcDltyhOzwryTTpfiVMMJvYJ-Gg9QbbReYEmWFpTPaSHVgnZOcXWoNmbXVX29MU9YB8sy999WbkV4tJkC6d9EQx6VmuAbAkK1l584_Ib2Ek8m6PEh-EYeTMJoEYorYdTBRl3kW/w139-h57/ebay-logo-logotype-white-background-eps-74066634.jpg" width="139" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Streaming info: <a href="https://linktr.ee/changeofscene" target="_blank">https://linktr.ee/changeofscene</a><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Scott Sawyer – electric guitar <br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Oteil Burbridge – electric bass<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Scott </span><span style="font-family: arial;">Amendola – drums, percussion & electronics<br /><br /></span></span></b></div><div><div class="page" title="Page 1"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;"><span>Tracks:<br /></span><span>
1. Passing By (Ron Brendle)<br /></span><span>
2. Mighty Dom<a href="https://youtu.be/W6Ib-7nyVcA" target="_blank"><br /></a></span><span>
3. What It Is <br /></span><span>
4. Stella Blue (Jerry Garcia/Robert Hunter)<br /></span><span>5. Nardis (Miles Davis)<br /></span><span>6. Side Step<br /></span><span>7. The Crystal Ship (The Doors)<br /></span><span>8. Under the Stars<br /></span></span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span>Doll Records 8-1 (Vinyl), 8-2 (CD)<br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>Official release date – Nov 11</span><span style="vertical-align: 4pt;">th </span><span>2022<br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>Recorded November 1</span><span style="vertical-align: 4pt;">st </span><span>- 3rd, 2021, at Panoramic
House (Stinson Beach, CA).<br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Recorded, Mixed, Mastered, and Produced by Jason
Richmond.<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Artwork & cover design by Denise Halbe<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Executive Producer: Jon Sawyer </span></span></p></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><div class="page" title="Page 1"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p>
</p><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: normal;">Contact - Jon Sawyer: <a href="mailto:thejonsawyer@gmail.com">thejonsawyer@gmail.com</a><br /></span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WoYiOa1UfPA" width="478" youtube-src-id="WoYiOa1UfPA"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLlbB1en5WAKcDrBLAqXpblkf9FrcU-hrngmJ2z09aVxsr5f6CqcbrEo_Q2oxPZeFaZxuTsCZ14ghbsvyArjOtOFHBJAAYmOjpbq1nWD-CVUd_B5krBdGg7udY1jph8ByUediupQP8KqbK6q2MJUyGsSW7hBvtMJwMldyNAnaGBtVWTWOfZTb8AVfK/s423/CoS_BACK_6in_web%20crop.jpg" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="423" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLlbB1en5WAKcDrBLAqXpblkf9FrcU-hrngmJ2z09aVxsr5f6CqcbrEo_Q2oxPZeFaZxuTsCZ14ghbsvyArjOtOFHBJAAYmOjpbq1nWD-CVUd_B5krBdGg7udY1jph8ByUediupQP8KqbK6q2MJUyGsSW7hBvtMJwMldyNAnaGBtVWTWOfZTb8AVfK/w478-h440/CoS_BACK_6in_web%20crop.jpg" width="478" /></a><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; font-weight: 400;">Streaming info: </span><a href="https://linktr.ee/changeofscene" style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; font-weight: 400;" target="_blank">https://linktr.ee/changeofscene</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br />CD's & Vinyl at:</span></div><div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;"><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://scottsawyer.bandcamp.com/album/change-of-scene-2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="106" data-original-width="506" height="33" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzbAFQZftOiVkkHceferEF-1VFROpf7V-v9HSD0KzHqiIGsHJNIz0JOQ6kLZotRQZ3REe9MW3ltB0sn5-rLV8tcMqcyIcTwxmVPNgfGYDBM3iSYwx21O-y1pO6V_rhA1VvG2qPbo1NYfhekXea3Vp1zpW0_pv6agddDJ0vALXo8_czIfQWeAC2hkA/w155-h33/bandcamp-logo-2017-billboard-1548.webp" width="155" /></a></div></div></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://jonsawyer.net/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="67" data-original-width="319" height="31" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAblFCHSpufZAwByAl8qtbRibKy90wGDO3AAuIn77R4az3uYScRHZ3L1YW8zir0NM1wFgBwz_mbXJfrDITSupO-H9ZtYOR60kTFa3ft6nHzoy_H6qOC5_FdA8J3LEn_XuaVtOMHWE1nPbEOud8dbxbWuym23Jv_vhYZTPqU5wkdWvxujIgdjO9Ibf/w151-h31/jonsawyerDOTnet_logo.PNG" width="151" /></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.homegrownmusic.net/search/content/scott%20sawyer" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="112" data-original-width="313" height="56" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXMFons8FqWURRvs02a6kJ-tx-Rs0W2gQCNjO3qXd2ztvVhBpCohUKUmOyD4q59wWQ74EUv74FCZOK0IHrF6_FFry_0BDwHV7lNtGhpQuYr93E5lShp0Ivq2HYVjvhOJ8qfLZfG0kw_tT_wnBo1CVN6fG-YeJcZQrHRiu74JhUM8DVHCxuPh-tOyJl/w157-h56/HGMN_logo.jpg" width="157" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.ebay.com/usr/jonsawyer?_trksid=p2047675.m3561.l2559" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="1341" height="57" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9Tzyukd6cCvvVpeENI6-tvpnrU5xrIDW1YQ2Vz56Q5OIhOqHLpKcDltyhOzwryTTpfiVMMJvYJ-Gg9QbbReYEmWFpTPaSHVgnZOcXWoNmbXVX29MU9YB8sy999WbkV4tJkC6d9EQx6VmuAbAkK1l584_Ib2Ek8m6PEh-EYeTMJoEYorYdTBRl3kW/w139-h57/ebay-logo-logotype-white-background-eps-74066634.jpg" width="139" /></a></div></span></div></div><div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Yve6bomBOI469Ibje5WFvKL7DsBu1Ik_c41tktdbfD3W3LHQHZC_nSl57oSBzlSDkkx-Do49uznSiBbw5UAXoC5bj3PZjTBSJd0wnU8OLT4nCXaPSH0MMWyMv9ZAkt87stU5RNldl-r1S94ZQW66EHhoWxH7Inu7OSLZLps_p58MJ8XaxSwdnnf0/s953/line_break.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="57" data-original-width="953" height="19" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Yve6bomBOI469Ibje5WFvKL7DsBu1Ik_c41tktdbfD3W3LHQHZC_nSl57oSBzlSDkkx-Do49uznSiBbw5UAXoC5bj3PZjTBSJd0wnU8OLT4nCXaPSH0MMWyMv9ZAkt87stU5RNldl-r1S94ZQW66EHhoWxH7Inu7OSLZLps_p58MJ8XaxSwdnnf0/s320/line_break.png" width="320" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://scottsawyer.net/" style="font-size: 18.72px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="68" data-original-width="697" height="31" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggXpxc8Zm_5aJ3tbf5jaHI8H-8TXHezPXIPQMv0y4GvzPkyyEPbAh9o8rk0mY9dRNdBqHuapoefSSDUt7Qw_uD7OjJoGKW9E2FzbAA2WFE7Ca3nIXsXfyrI_fSER60hTa-SRUSc9gOc7TuhAUs6KPysDESaZdN2wNIdi36psRVOTJs5yPjIf_PVlh/s320/SS-logo-idea.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://scottsawyer.bandcamp.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="137" data-original-width="428" height="55" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4RtH4EboaSEPL1eI2NmH5hEdss-vDxC3MpQxU-eKbyPEAJtIIkVnUOtaRzkrP5rKwjiaB7lNJckLBa4XHNgVS66BvILiExgz55gc-pGZINXaxU1R04cJMtqDAaB001HN6GEo1dSTdCKTWhVF-n8far3GBE3xqYX1beQGcDkbtgbiLH-NnMX3nVGKT/w173-h55/SS_Plus_BC.PNG" width="173" /></a></div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsawyerguitar" style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsawyerguitar</a><br /><a href="https://www.instagram.com/genrebuster" style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/genrebuster</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/genrebuster" target="_blank"><br /></a></span></span></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></h3></div></div></div></div><p></p>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-90809005437121996232018-09-13T12:56:00.006-07:002020-09-08T13:45:40.482-07:00You say you've never been able to get into Frank Zappa...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="386" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1d7-uR0jCoLEahs3MUPDGdUeN5SdBvfPMnKnW6jaDu7hyphenhyphenrMhLc4aP0Vic-TuXPNwGv91ntihg-JnyEnUbJV9mY5vaP-2Gyds_6740UfeZ0LRssk5hGKDKJdiW4k5qi1slWv3KMmP5P0/s320/gettyimages-121399062-612x612.jpg" width="300" /></div>
<br />
I'm 52 and an admitted music freak. Genre-wise, I am all over the map. I pretty much love it all except for top 40 and current hip hop, and I don't know much about classical or opera but I don't dislike it. I am also highly selective when it comes to twang, but there is a lot that I love.... As for rock, jam band, jazz, blues, prog, and metal music genres, I do have a fair amount of useless data hard-wired to my brain and the propensity to geek out; same thing applies to the music of Frank Zappa, which I consider a genre in itself.<br />
<br />
I've been a Frank Zappa fan since my older Brother Scott kicked me down a copy of Apostrophe (') 41 years ago, in 1977, when I was 11 years old. I have studied his massive catalog of music semi-extensively, and I managed to catch 1 live show, Bismarck Theatre in Chicago, <a href="http://wiki.killuglyradio.com/wiki/84/11/23_Chicago_IL_US_Bismarck_Theatre" target="_blank">November 23rd 1984</a> <= the setlist, for those keeping score. Sadly, Frank Zappa died from Prostate Cancer in '93, at the age of 52.<br />
<br />
At the time of his death, there were 62 legitimate Frank Zappa albums, live or studio, plus 4 compilations. Since his death there have been another 49 posthumous live or studio released albums, plus 11 more compilations, for a grand total of 111 live or studio Frank Zappa albums plus another 15 compilation albums, plus a plethora of unauthorized live bootleg albums. Frank Zappa's music pretty much covered the gamut; doo-wop, rock, fusion, funk, reggae, metal, classical, avant garde/straight up weirdness, even a synclavier era. Also, a lot of the album covers have awesome artwork, and in some cases the cover artwork is even better than the music itself. Were a Zappa Newbie to listen to the "wrong" album first, he/she could be horrified and forever doomed to not be able to get into Frank's music... Which is what prompted me to write this essay. Every so often I will post some Frank Zappa YouTubeage on Facebook, and inevitably a music-head Friend of mine will comment that they don't know much about Zappa and have never been able to get into his music...<br />
<br />
My favorite period(s) of Zappa is mostly from around 1973 to '88, a lot of electric guitar based rock and fusion-ish music with incredible bands. I am not as heavily into the earlier stuff, much of it with a higher weirdness factor, or his synclavier and classical music albums, where he had more of a conductor role. I prefer the more frenetic guitar driven albums.<br />
<br />
Below are my top 15 "accessible" Frank Zappa albums, not ranked, but in chronological order instead; with some descriptive comments. Keep in mind this list is 100% subjective, and one man's trash is another man's treasure... But, if you know me personally, you probably have a pretty good idea of what floats my boat, and you may find this list useful.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:150pt;height:150pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="Hot_Rats_(Frank_Zappa_album_-_cover_art)"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoi2wseWA2Y_eekS890RmUxTu_wRV5R6kwAVCYCNY8gJC6d7lIT7ARlekyNiCgDS2CYOXPZ60sRlpI2i5jCoOPZm_7atK6A35SywCIfqv2rLL9yrf3AFOC6ciMmkkaNAIPWwG8vvXy7Ls/s400/Hot_Rats_%2528Frank_Zappa_album_-_cover_art%2529.jpg" /><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>* Hot Rats</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Released in '69, 5 of the 6 songs are instrumentals. The album opener, Peaches En Regalia, is considered a modern jazz fusion standard and is arguably Frank Zappa's best-known instrumental song; and is also covered semi-regularly by phish, one of my current favorite live bands. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_2" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Frank-Zappa-Overnite-Sensation-1973-cover"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHiNy2cTs4dQnRlby88-KpU_ItNbJirS_KAFj-z8xUHiqrxJ_E8zByTG7F4FRAMRhKaTfuE8n3qZW8VYFZDGQezfCtmvIm68Ut2bprJ6oWmH3sIH_Xv43XV12MCMBGwgUm68ZeOIVlbw/s400/220px-Frank-Zappa-Overnite-Sensation-1973-cover.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Over-nite
Sensation <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Released in '73, my favorite FZ album - Ripping solos
all over it; main soloists being Zappa, George Duke, and Jean-Luc Ponty.
Classic FZ lyrics; very amusing, sexual, offensive, sometimes hilarious,
always on point. This album contains 2 of Frank's best known songs: Montana,
and Dinah Moe Hum. A bit of trivia - Tina Turner and the Ikettes were uncredited back up
singers on I'm the Slime and Dirty Love and all of side 2.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_2" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Frank-Zappa-Overnite-Sensation-1973-cover"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UQgWb8sWvDuxXNTJPCCd0ct9VLkGdfytDpOl8WICr8JQ2eoa1731jLY2671MzO6OprhvB5S5lbqPzjLSPk9ur53goUf9Ha3mkgxINb3HCGC7Ktbhpa-_xlGC91WMfPm4XcrYpw7y_jI/s400/220px-Apostrophe_%2528%2527%2529.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Apostrophe (')<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Released in '74, Zappa's most commercially successful
album. and as mentioned previously, the one I popped my Zappa cherry with,
when my brother gave it to my 11 year old self. At that time, I was just
discovering music, beyond mostly disco 45's... So, my Bro gave me his used
copy of Apostrophe which at the time was fairly new (released in '74), and I
was immediately sucked in and completely enamored. This dude, who
incidentally my brother slightly resembled at that time, was singing about dogs PEEING in the snow
and people EATING it and fighting with dog-doo snowcones, and smelly feet in
python-skin boots!?!? What subjects could an 11 year old boy appreciate more
than those?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not to mention the wah wah
pedal infused guitar licks, and the xylophone in rock music context. My young
impressionable mind was blown! This album was actually recorded during the same session as 'Over-nite Sensation' and there is a Rykodisc cd available with complete
copies, of both albums, on a single disc.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_Roxy_&_Elsewhere"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDOiKvJsY9sWXQMXz01VjXpYHFzugkd1lZjfuu-LnCu4zIwHWpilEOAQOfAtDF1fPIGLpphUsw5oljrd32143F9quHh2dibflmzjRf1EqhrzXndozO2m__NSsiVKYdYDxlKN3Rou8iJ0/s400/220px-Zappa_Roxy_%2526_Elsewhere.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Roxy and
Elsewhere<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A double live album recorded 12/8-10/1973 and released
a few months later, in '74. A dvd/blu ray video was released in 2015, and a 7 cd box set
documenting the 4 full sets from the 2nd and 3rd nights of the run was
released in 2018.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_Roxy_&_Elsewhere"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiesyM-8rQ8D2bSHRiWBEEmEIZMQanonkQgRi3q7CDTg5IKFBPa6HJi9Ur3oZknVwPWUwsp-OwQpIxaqIvHIl2NLvmKl1G7q6uZC6S4HdH7g9p6REiDM7eKUnPuRJ3eeEV3EYKY_bY8UYY/s400/220px-Zappa_One_Size_Fits_All.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* One Size Fits
All<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Released in '75, contains FZ's prog tour-de-force, Inca
Roads, and another of my favorite Zappa songs; Po-Jama People.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_Roxy_&_Elsewhere"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX8nYmNj5etLrnpksnYjl2_uQg-Zo1912U1KeuYzSZ2lMIQ_Y5E2_j3CAegfp9f-hcOtcooj3bkeglRjz3CuAYllnpanRBdvGuaHe5CIIdpsMr4WEmOvM4PAkAzSyIzvPzOTi8LfvHb_8/s400/220px-Zappa_Bongo_Fury.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Bongo Fury<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Released in '75, mostly live. This makes my list
because of the Muffin Man, although I do enjoy the whole album.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_5" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_Zoot_Allures"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg500T6lllsqIDNj0CzDNH5zXXRZiLxPASLj2JiIqs8kpjxWOpGu1K14U6Y4itfTjkSUfhiZuodfnhQcZ2J08Bt1HYnvPC2pBxZWVuDqgB0cpExnTRB2Ltg9OhuoJbLvZGQsloSE6KvcYQ/s400/220px-Zappa_Zoot_Allures.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Zoot Allures<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Released in '76, hits include The Torture Never Stops
(masterpiece!), and also Disco Boy.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_6" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_in_New_York"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9INBYsf92eNg5XBVTCUKzbOS3UO3JYTwiXk1gtS50SLeXfmltN2Jf8CRvfGOwUp4lKDhmZVodnXSDR6qaiwUOEHBDIucm0TSeQSwoTUwo1dmeeZDAyEaDqIWBFxtBhKHnGCnYn2QlYA/s400/220px-Zappa_in_New_York.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Zappa in New
York<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A double album recorded 12/26-29/76 @ Palladium, NYC;
but not released until '78. Titties & Beer!<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_6" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_in_New_York"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XRG3QLAWqqBJIckRD-lKpODlmlC_3baQYqSTDkeQGUyECVVwk2hKs2WQf6zBITs71ESBKZLQVXti_qdfBJHzA1kSTgEMqJn-VWZyzq4uEsNkFfSwGaB7it2xpkXDssnM_ImhWJhsgdA/s400/220px-Zappa_Joe%2527s_Garage.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Joe's Garage
Act I<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Released in '79, a concept album that satirizes
American society, the government, censorship, sex, and religion. I do like
Acts II & III also, but I think Act I is supreme.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_9" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165.75pt;height:165.75pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_You_Are_What_You_Is"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclkAOnD_duFZu_GzOWqcPDJo0NahvKBL2Bnt7Hrmy38K3zSk1UdRElegAVLJ39dgSdD1qnUXKRA7MVLFWr22BdGoHFxyTMSgbZ-WuTjRBhGAiEbMyiLsS7uWNqSIsw8944rhSJ0Qj4P8/s400/220px-Zappa_Shut_Up_%2527N%2527_Play_Yer_Guitar.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Shut Up 'n
Play Yer Guitar<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A 3 album (2 cd) live set consisting of instrumentals
and improvised solos all spliced together, recorded between 1972 and 1980,
and released in '81.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_9" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165.75pt;height:165.75pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_You_Are_What_You_Is"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixbjdD72GAB1kALRptmMmD6DOOwBRmoL90SNXVXq0ZFaZ-1GOdCnyN2uVA8lgcep-LasnjRQxl7cZzqtvX2oNZ_cBb7ZmtkpBlWtr5Q5iIvYay7-DWfYIdm2B8baoxc30vVgdH5sbd3IU/s400/220px-Zappa_You_Are_What_You_Is.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* You Are What
You Is<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A double album released in '81. Steve Vai is credited
for "strat abuse."<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_9" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165.75pt;height:165.75pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Zappa_You_Are_What_You_Is"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8coGdlnoAuDVa2jFq4rmk4oGellFYqaTi7vWblRIzFvQRWuWiQFzcJemRRSiLb2NViapgBtkU9_IUiGzD4XWVYXfvN3x5PVIasmLqrQdZ2pWMkqiuSAyvyRDOs2VglTCgXeDJdgjf8OU/s400/220px-Zappa_Them_or_Us.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Them Or Us<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A double album released in '84. Steve Vai is credited
for "stunt guitar" and "impossible guitar parts." 15 year
old Dweezil plays solos on Sharleena and Stevie's Spanking; he was a student
of Eddie Van Halen at the time, can you tell?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This album closes with a live Whipping Post cover that briefly veers
into reggae territory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_13" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Frank_Zappa,_Does_Humor_Belong_In_Music"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzcOIjXCEPmM69tRx9G1fbCewpxJhvVR2BGPsTB3nvpaKT5eQYYdCfDwDhmA3sW0ii8AVvju4RuVMvhT0RYFOMRvJKpRuEFmGpglxfA9jXG-_C7Sf7RuD1NTvRpFQF6o9Y9BChIlfKNM/s400/220px-Frank_Zappa%252C_Does_Humor_Belong_In_Music.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Does Humor
Belong in Music?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A live cd documenting a run of shows from October to
December of 1984. I am biased because my one live Frank Zappa sighting took
place during these 3 months (the 2nd track, Tinseltown rebellion, was from
that show), but there is plenty of Frank shred on this cd. Another Whipping
Post, same as Them or Us noted above, with a 15 year old Dweezil taking a
solo.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_14" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Guitar_(Zappa)"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8H8RdJ_vEzzBbclIkz4eViXjJP3iAsaeCpqjsVO5uEaD-ZtLhU-lNWlxv32CODNF7RhxYQ5kF3VkyjOjnIzwdU5IhfIxLNCoK9rWibDwBI2BGKhmepZZvz1V8-LaPR-jZLX0XvvO03g/s400/220px-Guitar_%2528Zappa%2529.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Guitar<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A double cd follow-up to Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar,
with guitar solos recorded between 1979 and 1984; released in '88.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 179.75pt;" valign="top" width="240"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_15" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:165pt;height:165pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/jsawyer3/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="220px-Trance-Fusion_artwork"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPWw12U42PE3Uc8h5QDjBGiLNoVQT7F0IVdwSNxLF1WbmGX8WQVSDLh9vD5a650sqE3c3bMKYLBKTJEdQlr3V0kQqqry7sUrlHU1_xnnCxhpZXtfwV3c7v4h6qNLpiNZJB97Na6Mdc81Y/s400/220px-Trance-Fusion_artwork.jpg" /><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 287.75pt;" width="384"><div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">* Trance-Fusion<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Same concept as Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar, and Guitar;
recorded between 1974 and 1988, and released in '06.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-78284061070938917912018-06-27T16:56:00.002-07:002018-06-29T09:42:04.834-07:00Random Groover's Best Music Picks of 2017I actually compiled this list back in January, but realized today (5 months later) I never published it. So, without further ado, here is my list of best music of 2017. 5 jazz titles and 10 rock/blues/metal titles, and remember what they say about opinions. Let me know of anything I might've missed, via email or the comments section below. My favorite album of the year was 'Southern Blood.'<br />
<br />
<hr />
<br />
Top 10 rock/blues/metal<br />
<br />
* Gregg Allman - Southern Blood<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2lPwOxz">http://amzn.to/2lPwOxz</a><br />
As close to perfection as possible, in my opinion, for a Gregg Allman solo album. It was recorded while he was battling the Liver Cancer that eventually claimed him, before the album was actually released. Initially, it was intended to be all new GA penned tunes, but instead it became covers of an autobiographical nature, plus one GA original and one Scott Sharrard (GA's guitarist) penned tune; with my favorite being the cover of Bob Dylan's 'Going Going Gone' -> <a href="https://youtu.be/L_GV2OHgi8M">https://youtu.be/L_GV2OHgi8M</a> - The vinyl version comes with a very nice Gregg Allman blood portrait poster.<br />
<br />
* The Black Dahlia Murder - Nightbringers<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2ClDedO">http://amzn.to/2ClDedO</a><br />
This band has been a guily pleasure of mine since I saw them open for King Diamond roughly 13 years ago. They haven't deviated from their signature furious melodic raw high-tempo cookie-monster vocals sound. The album is ~33 minutes long, which for me is a good dosage, for music this extreme; a full hour would be too much.<br />
<br />
* Gizmodrome (self titled)<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2EQ18jh">http://amzn.to/2EQ18jh</a><br />
Gizmodrome is considered a supergroup, and the band is comprised of Stewart Copeland on drums and vocals (The Police), Mark King on bass (Level 42), Adrian Belew on guitar (King Crimson, David Bowie, Frank Zappa), and Italian singer/multi-instrumentalist Vittorio Cosma. It's fun quirky prog music. I was suprised that Adrian isn't lead singer, but since Copeland wrote the lyrics it makes sense he sings them... Plus it keeps it from sounding like another Adrian Belew led King Crimson side project.<br />
<br />
* Gov’t Mule: Revolution Come…Revolution Go<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2E2fr3j">http://amzn.to/2E2fr3j</a><br />
Another solid Gov't Mule Album.<br />
<br />
* Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit - The Nashville Sound<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2lPIqjn">http://amzn.to/2lPIqjn</a><br />
This album, it seems to me, has just a tad more commercial than the last one, in my opinion; more "hooks" I mean. It's not a bad thing, just an observation. I still hear a "Southern Neil Young vibe." I've read a few not great reviews, in comparison to their last couple albums; but I think this is as strong as any other this band's albums thus far.<br />
<br />
* Taj Mahal / Keb' Mo' - TajMo<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2AibLrD">http://amzn.to/2AibLrD</a><br />
I'm a huge fan on both Taj and Keb as solo artists, so I was pretty excited to hear this album once I caught wind that it was happening. It's as killer as I expected it to be, and I anxiously await round 2. Bonus points for Joe Walsh sitting in on the 'Squeeze Box' cover.<br />
<br />
* North Mississippi Allstars - Prayer For Peace<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2EQjWz6">http://amzn.to/2EQjWz6</a><br />
This is NMAS'es 19th album! Their approach hasn't changed much. Modern stripped down Hill Country Blues. The big man on bass, Chris Chew, has been out of the band for a few years now. This current version of NMAS is a duo, Luther and Cody Dickinson, augmented by guest musicians on different songs, including Oteil Burbridge and Grahame Lesh. 2 originals and 10 covers, their version of 'Deep Ellum Blues' is as good as any I have heard (<a href="https://youtu.be/yLU_xP5v9z4">https://youtu.be/yLU_xP5v9z4</a>), this album is outstanding.<br />
<br />
* Robert Plant - Carry Fire<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2EQhTe">http://amzn.to/2EQhTe</a><br />
Another great Robert Plant album with the Sensational Space Shifters backing him, still one foot in the past (blues) and one foot towards the future.<br />
<br />
* Chris Robinson Brotherhood - Barefoot In The Head<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2ERef42">http://amzn.to/2ERef42</a><br />
CRB's best album yet. More of the same 70's psychedelic southern rock sound, with the Jerry Garcia Band vibe a bit less pronounced in the mix; whereas the CRB funk is a bit more prominent.<br />
<br />
* The War On Drugs – A Deeper Understanding<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2CNT3eo">http://amzn.to/2CNT3eo</a><br />
The WoD is one of my favorite newer bands; I still hear the same Tom Petty, Dire Straits/Mark Knopfler and Pink Floyd influences that I heard on their last album.<br />
<br />
Top 5 Jazz<br />
<br />
* John Abercrombie - Up and Coming<br />
<a href="https://amzn.to/2yL455T">https://amzn.to/2yL455T</a><br />
John's last cd. AN ECM release, like most of his music. Very nice but also bittersweet.<br />
<br />
* Chris Combs - Combsy<br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/2AjDjwQ">http://bit.ly/2AjDjwQ</a><br />
This was a Kickstarter crowdfund project. Chris is the guitarist/lap steel player in Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey (post Reed Mathis version of band) and was the mastermind behind their excellent Race Riot Suite album. Chris is based in Oklahoma and this album has a bit of a New Orleans vibe (the horns). He has his own thing going on, no doubt; not quite jazz and not quite rock fusion, and I do hear at times a Frisellian nod on the lap steel. His rhythm section at times reminds me of Bob Green's Grassy Knoll band. This is a must listen album if you're into modern avant garde experimental music. 5 stars all the way!<br />
<br />
* DeJohnette Grenadier Medeski Scofield: Hudson<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2lPa0Os">http://amzn.to/2lPa0Os</a><br />
Another amazing project that John Scofield is part of, along with 3 other brilliant players. Sco quite simply can do no wrong.<br />
<br />
* Bill Frisell / Thomas Morgan - Small Town<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2E3e0Sa">http://amzn.to/2E3e0Sa</a><br />
Guitar and upright bass, another ECM release, enough said. Bill's last ECM recording was back in '87! This new one was recorded live at the Village Vanguard in 2016.<br />
<br />
* Craig Taborn - Daylight Ghosts<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2EN5Z4S">http://amzn.to/2EN5Z4S</a><br />
I pretty much enjoy any and all music with the Bad Plus'es Dave King on drums, especially an ECM Records production. In addition to Craig on piano and Dave on drums, there's also Chris Speed on tenor sax and clarinet, and Chris Lightcap on bass; all badass musicians! This album received much critical acclaim from multiple major jazz publications.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-14616161582566610172017-02-02T01:30:00.000-08:002017-02-03T02:23:21.678-08:00Best CD's of 2016<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For me, 2016 was a fantastic year for new music. I had a really hard time narrowing down my picks, thus I did 2 lists this year; "jazz-ish," and everything else. First off, a few disclaimers: Yes I have the new phish and have listened to it few times and it hasn't yet blown me away. I am still listening, it's still in evaluation mode. I also am aware of the new Bobby CD but I haven'd heard it yet, I was always a Jerry guy. I am also aware that Metallica and Megadeth both have new albums out that are getting rave reviews. As of now, I have heard neither. I'm sure I'll hear both eventually, but am not currently in that head-space... I designate 2016 the year of the Black Crowes. Why the Crowes? Because Chris Robinson, Rich Robinson, and Marc Ford all released CD's which appear on this list. Alternatively, it could also be the year of the Rolling Stones. Why the Stones? Aside from the fact that there is a Stones album on this list, there are several other bands (including the aforementioned Crowes related CD's) on this list whom wear their RS influence on their sleeves, some more brightly than others... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My only rule is that the CD has to be commercially available in hard copy form. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Legit live downloads from download.com or muletracks/livephish etc do not qualify. Generally, </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I tend to not list live recordings, period, but in past years there has been an exception or two.<br /><br />I am unable to nail down my favorite disc of the year; but I'll throw out there my top 5 for the year (no particular order), Scofield, Mike Neer, Hard Working Americans, Drive-By Truckers, and the Stones. Let me know of anything I might've missed, via email or the comments section below. Thanks for reading and onward to the list(s):</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Top 20 CD's of 2016 (excluding jazz-ish genre)</span></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* David Bowie - Blackstar</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hbxUl7" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hbxUl7</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There was a lot of hype for Blackstar long before it was released. It was on my radar because I knew he had hired a working band of NYC jazz heavyweights to be his backing band; including guitarist Ben Monder and bass player Tim Lefebrve, both of whom have been on my radar for several years. Like a lot of David Bowie recordings, this defies categorization; it's definitely not jazz, despite his band... Is it David Bowie doing his Steely Dan album? Is it experimental art rock? The fact that he died days after this CD was released makes this music even more powerful, especially when considering the lyrics and his timeline.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Doyle Bramhall II - Rich Man</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hUXhXq" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hUXhXq</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This CD didn't blow me away the first time I heard it; but it grew on me after repeated listenings and in my opinion is a blues rock masterpiece. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Luther Dickinson - Blues & Ballads (A Folksingers Songbook) Volumes I & II</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hUSBjX" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hUSBjX</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a great CD. Mostly acoustic music, with sparse instrumentation here and there, including some great guests. Listening to this makes it seem like you're somewhere in the boonies of TN, with Luther and a few friends pickin' on your back porch. The entire CD is Luther penned songs, but some are newly arranged versions of tunes from the North Mississippi All Star's Electric Blue Watermelon CD. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Drive-By Truckers - American Band </span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2i2tawR" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2i2tawR</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I loved the Truckers in their early days, but I lost some interest in them after Jason Isbell left the band. With this latest release I am back on board all the way. Think Rolling Stones meets Neil Young, with a dash of Tom Petty. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Ronnie Earl And The Broadcasters - Maxwell Street</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2h3AV3W" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2h3AV3W</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This tone-master's latest greatest is dedicated to his recently departed piano player, and named after the Chicago blues mecca that was Maxwell Street. If you like electric blues you'll probably like this disc. I wish Ronnie Earl would do a proper west coast tour.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Marc Ford & The Neptune Blues Club - The Vulture</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hsW6xg" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hsW6xg</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is another crowdfunded CD in which I was very happy to order an advance copy of. Marc is a very underrated guitarist who doesn't always get the accolades he deserves. He mostly flies under the radar of the general music-listening public; but all his solo albums, post Black Crowes, have been top shelf and this is no exception. I hear, in this music, traces of the Crowes and 70's Jeff Beck Group and Neil Young's Crazy Horse.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Hard Working Americans - Rest in Chaos</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hbAM1s" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hbAM1s</a><br />One of my current favorite bands. They're continuing in their same classic American rock and roll vein, which is fine with me. Guitar-slinger Neal Casal is severely underrated, and Todd Snider is one of my current favorite lyricists, and I like his voice too - He sounds like a gruff Mark Knopfler. I also like that Jesse Aycock, lap steel player from their touring band, appears on this recording.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Steve Kimock - Last Danger of Frost</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://bit.ly/2iZp1KY" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/2iZp1KY</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a beautifully recorded mostly solo-guitar album. It sounds especially good early in the morning while drinking coffee and contemplating the upcoming day... I suspect it would also serve well as "coming down Music" for the Trippers ;-) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* The Markus King Band (Self-Titled)</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hefB0g" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hefB0g</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm a little late getting on board this train. Markus King is a very young man with a very old soul. Blues based rock not unlike Allman Brothers along with a soul/R&B horns groove. This is a Warren Haynes/Hardhead produced CD, and both Warren and also Derek Trucks appear on this; as does Kofi Burbridge and Todd Smallie, The Markus King Band gives me hope for the future of rock & roll.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Reed Mathis - Beathoven</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hbuAq8" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hbuAq8</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Reed is one of the busier musicians in my locale, the bay area. He's a bass player who just this year ended his tenure with Tea Leaf Green (member since 2008), and prior to TLG he was a member of Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey for around 14 years. In the last decade, in addition to TLG, he has also toured with Steve Kimock Band, the Marco Benevento Trio, 7 Walkers, and Billy (Kreutzmann) & the Kids. Reed's sidemen on this Beethoven inspired project are a who's who of today's current jam band scene: Page McConnell, Mike Gordon, Stanton Moore, Robert Walter, Mike Dillon, Joe Russo, Marco Benevento, Matt Chamberlain, and others. I'm not sure how to classify this instrumental music... Is there such a genre as "psychedelic classical jam </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">groove</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">?" Enjoy this sample, <a href="https://youtu.be/7c3stv0sGD8" target="_blank">Rebirth</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Opeth - Sorceress</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2ih4aBk" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2ih4aBk</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a very proggy affair, as mellow as anything Opeth has recorded. I also loved Damnation, which was also more mellow than the usual Opeth. When I say mellow, I mean no cookie monster lead vocals; it is still, at times, very heavy music. This is by far my favorite of Opeth's albums, and I hope they continue in this prog direction.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* The Rides - Pierced Arrow</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2ih1FyA" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2ih1FyA</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blues rock superband? This is their sophomore effort, I somehow missed hearing about 'em the first time around. Stephen Stills drew me in, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd plays on this too, as well as Barry Goldberg on keyboards. I must say Kenny Ray is sounding pretty tasteful these days, he has matured since Ledbetter Heights; although I did also like his 10 Days Out CD from a few years ago. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anyway, back to the Rides, this CD completely exceeded my expectations and is very worthy of inclusion on this list. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Chris Robinson Brotherhood - If You Lived Here, You Would Be Home By Now</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2jB8XSE" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2jB8XSE</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As long as Neal Casal is ripping lead guitar in Chris'es band, then Chris'es CD's will likely continue to be on my yearly best of lists. While I do still hear some Grateful Dead influence, this sounds less overtly like 70's Jerry Garcia Band, and I am hearing more country rock and roots and southern rock influences; but still very psychedelic music overall.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Rich Robinson - Flux</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2i2Duom" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2i2Duom</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a continuation of the "classic rock" direction Rich was headed in on last CD, fresh off the road from touring with Bad Company in summer of 2016. Nothing groundbreaking here; simply very good rock and roll played by a very capable band.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Rolling Stones - Blue & Lonesome</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2h3zK4i" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2h3zK4i</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This RS blues album is quite a surprise, all covers, lots of Chicago blues. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Best Rolling Stones studio effort since Some Girls (1978).</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* The Shelters (Self-Titled)</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2ichHhx" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2ichHhx</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I stumbled upon the Shelters when I saw them open for Mudcrutch. This excellent CD was produced by Tom Petty, I actually like it better than the new Mudcrutch album (which didn't really do it for me and is absent from this list). Rock & roll: I hear Beatles, I hear Jane's Addiction, I hear a tiny hint of the Doors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Sturgill Simpson - A Sailor's Guide to Earth</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2h6cGSo" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2h6cGSo</a><br />In my opinion, Sturgill SImpson is country music's savior. The fact that he followed up 2014's most excellent Metamodern Sounds CD with something of this magnitude; that is a feat in itself. At the time I composed the list, He has received two nominations for the 2017 Grammy Awards - Best country album, and the all-genre album of the year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* The Steepwater Band - Shake Your Faith</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hJ214e" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hJ214e</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I discovered the Steepwater Band a few years ago, via Marc Ford (he produced an earlier album for them). This is a really good album, their best yet in my humble opinion. Think Bad Company meets Lynyrd Skynyrd; a 70's classic rock/southern rock vibe featuring strong slide guitar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Tedeschi Trucks Band - Let Me Get By </span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hbAgR9" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hbAgR9</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Derek Trucks is one of my favorite current guitar players. It's taken a few years, for me, for this band to get past the shadow of the Derek Trucks Band and also the Allman Brothers Band; but they have indeed gone beyond both shadows. I do understand Derek not wanting to take a 10-15 minute solo on every song. As far as I'm concerned, currently there is no better live band out there doing it (in comparably sized venues). This is their 3rd studio release, and they have stepped it up a notch since the last one. Mike Mattison sings lead vocals on 2 tracks, bonus! If you're solely interested in Derek Trucks guitar solos, this should fill your cup (they're shorter than dTb solos, but sweeter than ever); however, there are 12 musicians in TTB, all are virtuoso's and this is a band album.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* White Denim - Stiff</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hX9ltl" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hX9ltl</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've been a White Denim fan for a few years now. Based in Austin, they are considered retro garage from what I have read. I do hear a retro seventies sound with traces of the Beatles, Cheap Trick, maybe a bit of Doobie Brothers, and Free, plus a sometimes falsetto-voiced horn-laden soul groove. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Top 10 jazz CD's of 2016</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Amendola Vs. Blades - Greatest Hits</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2i5KEs5" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2i5KEs5</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Drums and B3, Scotty Amendola and Wil Blades are bay area groove masters who've been honing this duo for years. This is a crowdfunded CD I was very happy to advance order my copy of. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* The Bad Plus - It's Hard</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hJ1T4N" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hJ1T4N</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is an album of pop song covers. You may or may not like it, jazz purists won't like it, I love it. My favorite tune on this disc is Peter Gabriel's <a href="https://youtu.be/r_l9-9R5daQ" target="_blank">Games Without Frontiers</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Will Bernard - Out & About</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2ikvnTH" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2ikvnTH</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I haven't heard much about this album... It wasn't promoted very well, which is a shame; as I consider it his finest work yet. This is mostly modern straight ahead jazz, all original tunes. Will on guitars, and augmented by a BADASS band: organist Brian Charette, saxophonist John Ellis, bassist Ben Allison, and drummer Allison Miller. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Jakob Bro - Streams</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hw9a4U" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hw9a4U</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a guitar trio album, with Thomas Morgan on bass and the great Joey Baron on drums. I discovered Jakob a few years ago via a Paul Motian CD. This is mellow textural music (at times a bit Frisellian), not unlike a lot of stuff on the ECM label. </span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Bill Frisell - When You Wish Upon a Star</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hWVt2p" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hWVt2p</a><br />I love Bill Frisell's guitar playing. To me, he is the David Gilmour of jazz; he is all about phrasing and tones over super fast scale runs. Anyway, pretty much anything he records these days is on my list. In this case he has Rudy Royston on drums, the last drummer of recent memory who really made my jaw drop (Village Vanguard, March of 2014 - I saw Bill Frisell with Rudy on drums. I'd never heard of him and he completely melted my face off!). This is all interpretations of film soundtrack music. Petra Hayden on lead vocals (vocals being a rarity on Bill Frisell recordings). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Charlie Hunter - Everybody Has A Plan Until They Get Punched In The Mouth</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hV0ypC" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hV0ypC</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nothing ground breaking here, just Charlie Hunter being himself and further pushing the limits on his 7 string bass/guitar. In my opinion he gets better with age and this is as good as anything he's previously recorded. His bandmates on this CD are Kirk Knuffke (cornet), Bobby Previte (drums), and Curtis Fowlkes (trombone).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Brad Mehldau Trio - Blues And Ballads</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hMf4Sl" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hMf4Sl</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I don't know much about Brad Mehldau, but I do believe he is pretty important as far as modern jazz piano players go. This is a piano trio playing mostly standards and a couple Paul McCartney penned tunes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Mike Neer - Steelonious</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hWUoaO" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hWUoaO</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is far from 100% jazz despite the fact it's all Thelonious Monk tunes. In addition to jazz, I hear some country, some rockabilly, some church music, and some Hawaiian music. If you're a fan of lap steel guitar, this CD is absolutely not to be missed; however, there is something here to like for any fan of good instrumental music, including jazz, period.This is yet another crowdfunded CD in which I was very happy to order an advance copy of.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* John Scofield - Country For Old Men</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2hbAIij" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hbAIij</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another amazing album from the Maestro; a completely different direction than last year's album, Past Present, but equally BADASS! All covers from the country western genre, but remade with Sco's unique footprint. Give a listen to this OUT version of <a href="https://youtu.be/zKPZhmljUFw" target="_blank">I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry</a>.</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Vinnie Zummo - The Coyote</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2ijMiFE" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2ijMiFE</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My favorite artist whom I discovered years ago via Myspace has finally recorded the album I was waiting for, a studio jazz album. Vinnie is a guitarist based in NYC (and drummer, and accordionist), a heavyweight, and Joe Jackson's former hired gun. This CD is mostly originals along with some choice covers (Coltrane, Lee Morgan) , and he has a great band backing him, and a few guests; some of whose names you might recognize in addition to Joe Jackson; including Will Lee, Mark Egan, and Bill Stuart. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Honorable Mention CD's of 2016</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* <b>Jon Anderson/Roine Stolt - Invention of Knowledge</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2k0Bayp">http://amzn.to/2k0Bayp</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am partial to Yes-like music at this moment in time, so this could be a biased pick. I've been bingeing on Yes since seeing a couple incredible Anderson Rabin & Wakeman shows back in December. Roine Stolt is from a band I am unfamiliar with; the Flower Kings. More than one review I have read refer to this CD as a continuation of Yes'es Tales From Topographic Oceans.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Jeff Beck - Loud Hailer</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #0000ee; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://amzn.to/2jwgDBB" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2jwgDBB</a></u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jeff Beck albums can be hit or miss. This is his 18th studio recording in 48 years! I suspect it must be hard to continue to find inspiration after such a long career; but this is a pretty damn decent effort. This CD also features Carmen Vandenberg and Rosie Bones, from Bones (a UK band).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* The Claypool Lennon Delirium - Monolith of Phobos</span></b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2hbypfe" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2hbypfe</a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Odd superband pairings don't always work out, but in this scenario it works brilliantly. While it's no secret Les Claypool is a fan of progressive rock music, based on his past live covers of King Crimson and Pink Floyd, I did not expect him and John Lennon's son to record a prog CD; but that is exactly what they did.<br /><br />* <b>Harvey Mandel - Snake Pit</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2jLEpdS" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2jLEpdS </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Harvey is a guitar master and founding member of Canned Heat. I'm just now finding out about this late November release; an instrumental blues rock thing, Harvey's first studio CD in quite a few years. This is also his first release since winning a nasty fight with nasal cancer that required facial reconstruction. He recorded it in 2 days with a rhythm section from Chicago whom he had never played with prior, plus local (San Francisco) conga man Jose Najera. Combine all that with the fact Harvey is 71 years old, and this music is amazing! This cd is filled with blistering guitar tones. Check out the title track: </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://youtu.be/q1U8xQLhPIQ">https://youtu.be/q1U8xQLhPIQ</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">* Jeff Parker - The New Breed</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2jFnhcU" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/2jFnhcU</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've been following Jeff for decades. I first discovered him via Tortoise, and then Isotope 217. While I consider those 2 above noted bands to be avant garde jazz, this recording leans more in the direction of funk/soul/hip hop grooves.</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>* Triple Fret - Fall Risk</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://bit.ly/2jnFU3O">http://bit.ly/2jnFU3O</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The bummer for Mike Babyak, Triple Fret's band leader, facetiously speaking, is that he and guitar monk Steve Kimock are best buds since childhood. Consequently, a percentage of people listen to his music in comparison to Mr. Kimock's, and those are very big shoes for anybody to fill. This CD is strong enough to stand on its own merits. Its a rock album, but a very wide range of musical styles are displayed, and there is a lot of lap steel of various vintages, and a bit of Hindustani slide guitar. Mostly originals and a couple of very choice covers (Les McCann, and Black Dub). Lyrically, a few of the songs are really hitting home, as we settle into the the first month of the Trumpocalypse. I highly recommend this music. Preview it <a href="https://triplefret.hearnow.com/" target="_blank">here</a>, and then go snag a copy at the above link, bargain priced at $9.99!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-80307298866611411132016-01-12T11:08:00.004-08:002016-01-13T03:29:55.607-08:00Best cd's of 2015<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hey now, here is my list of the best cd's to grace my ears in 2015. The cd's are listed in alphabetical order. I normally don't include live recordings, especially by bands who allow taping (as the internet is flooded with shows), but there can be exceptions... My #1 favorite cd for 2015 is a 3 way tie between The Bad Plus Joshua Redman, Steve Earle, and John Scofield. As always, this list and comments are my opinion, and mine alone... If I left something off that you feel is a must hear, please note it in the comment section below or email me your recommendations.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
Top 15</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>The Bad Plus Joshua Redman</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1TdYfcr"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1TdYfcr</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was recorded after the Bad Plus and Joshua did a week long residency at NYC's Blue Note. 7 original tunes and 2 Bad Plus re-do's... This music is killing, fairly avante garde and free-jazzy at times, and beautifully recorded. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Jim Campilongo & Honeyfingers / Last Night, This Morning</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1Yvo9iC"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1Yvo9iC</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Western Swing meets Gypsy Jazz! This crowd-funded release by acclaimed Telecaster master Jim Campilongo does not disappoint. Are you a Speedy West/Jimmy Bryant duo fan? Django Reinhardt? If so, give this cd a listen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Consider the Source / World War Trio Parts II & III</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1QDp7oX"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1QDp7oX</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I discovered this band roughly 8 years ago while on a work junket to Dallas. Instrumental music with elements of jazz/fusion, prog, metal, jamband, world music, and middle eastern music. This double cd set was also a crowd-funded release and is amazing. There is a lot of fretless guitar on this album, which contributes heavily to their very unique sound.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Steve Earle & the Dukes / Terraplane</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1NIsqVv"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1NIsqVv</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've come to realize Steve Earle can do no wrong.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>David Gilmour / Rattle that Lock</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1PjSTgQ"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1PjSTgQ</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Great music, plenty of DG's trademark guitar playing and tones, I like this cd more than last year's Pink Floyd release. Check out the video single released by Dave: <a href="https://youtu.be/7PwQrEbEnrM">https://youtu.be/7PwQrEbEnrM</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Warren Haynes (featuring Railroad Earth) / Ashes & Dust</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1IlEpLW"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1IlEpLW</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So Warren Haynes decided to record a folkie/Americana album, what better band to recruit than Railroad Earth? The answer is none, he could not have chosen a better band. This cd is mostly originals, some new and some old, with a few covers thrown in too; including a fine rendition of Fleetwood Mac's "Gold Dust Woman" with Grace Potter on vocals (<a href="https://youtu.be/XAhVcc89e_0">https://youtu.be/XAhVcc89e_0</a>).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Jorma Kaukonen / Ain't In No Hurry</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1kdScIQ"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1kdScIQ</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jorma is sounding mighty fine these days, at the ripe age of 75... He is the epitome of that 'like fine wine' quote. I can visualize Jorma sitting in a rocking chair, on a porch at his cabin on his ranch, pickin' these tunes. Best Jorma recording since 2002's "Blue Country Heart."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Los Lobos / Gates of Gold</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1ThSt9K"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1ThSt9K</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the latest kick ass Los Lobos cd, the Wolves have been on a roll for quite a while ;-)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Papa Mali / Music is Love</b> </span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1J2CvQq"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1J2CvQq</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm a big Papa Mali advocate. As great as the bands are that he has been involved with lately (The 7 Walkers, the M&M's), he really shines on his own albums... Papa Mali is all about peace and love and music, and that vibe is projected strongly on this smile-inducing collection of cover tunes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Native Construct / Quiet World</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1SsGQhY"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1SsGQhY</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This trio of talented Berklee students is a recent discovery for me, and this is their debut cd. Their official genre is progressive metal; but they jump around so much, stylistically, that this might be a bit much for some people. Personally, I consider this cd a masterpiece. Influence wise, I hear obvious traces of Mr. Bungle, Queen, Dream Theater, and Frank Zappa.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>John Scofield / Past Present</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/22maFFf"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/22maFFf</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sco on semi-hollowbody guitar, saxaphonist Joe Lovano, drummer Bill Stewart, and Larry Grenadier on upright bass. This cd is more traditional as far as a Scofield recording goes. No Warren Haynes or Phil Lesh inluenced jams, and no noticeable use of phrases/samplers/etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Kurt Vile / b'lieve i'm goin' down</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1MsLyoK"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1MsLyoK</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kurt Vile is another recent discovery for me. He was a founding member of the War On Drugs, but he amicably left the band long before they released their breakout cd in 2014, "Lost In The Dream." This is moody chill introspective singer songwriter music. His wiki says "influenced by Pavement, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, Tom Petty, and John Fahey." I also hear traces of Steve Earle and Bob Dylan.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Widespread Panic / Street Dogs</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1YsRY3j"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1YsRY3j</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This album caught me off guard, I was not expecting it to be so good. In my opinion it's their best studio effort since 1999's "'Till the Medicine Takes." WSMFP!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Steven Wilson / Hand. Cannot. Erase.</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1PhrYQI"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1PhrYQI</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Steven Wilson is the hardest working man in rock and roll; yes, even compared to Warren Haynes.... When not working with closely with Robert Fripp re-mastering the King Crimson catalogue, or remastering Yes and Gentle Giant and Jethro Tull albums, or recording/touring with his main band Porcupine Tree, or recording music with one of his other side projects (Blackfield, No-Man, Bass Communion, Storm Corrosion), he finds time to release solo gems such as this... If you like the bands/artists mentioned in the above run-on sentences, then you will like this :-)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>The Word / Soul Food</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1mxanLk"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1mxanLk</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Word is North Mississippi Allstars (including Chris Chew on bass), plus John Medeski on keyboards, and Robert Randolph on steel guitar. 14 years after their initial debut cd came out, they have finally released this very fine follow up effort. 21st century sacred steel!</span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Honorable Mentions:</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Faith No More / Sol Invictus</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1kdR5Jc"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1kdR5Jc</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first FNM release in 18 (!) years. It's better than their last couple cd's and the band still sounds fresh. Mike Van Patton's voice still sounds very strong, especially considering "The Real Thing" came out in 1989. I have to assume there are a lot of effects on his vocals. Regardless, FNM is back!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>AJ Ghent Band / Live at Terminal West</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1NzswB9"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1NzswB9</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As noted at the top of this post, I usually don't put live albums on my best of lists. However, I made an exception in this case because it's AJ's debut release and all original tunes. Genre wise I would say somewhere between rock and rhythm & blues/soul music. AJ was previously in Col. Bruce Hampton's Band; and his father is the sacred steel guitar icon Aubrey Ghent, who played at Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi's wedding. This disc includes a DVD too. Introducing the future of steel guitar...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Goatsnake - Black Age Blues</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1mx8BtH"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1mx8BtH</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Goatsnake is a revered doom metal band whom I discovered via this disc. They are considered a supergroup, with ties to the desert rock scene. They're recently returned from hiatus, their last cd was released in 2000. If you like early Black Sabbath you will like this cd.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Buddy Guy / Born To Play Guitar</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1Zo5vWY"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1Zo5vWY</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At 79 years young, Buddy is one of the last living old-school blues men from the 20th century; in my opinion he is a national treasure. It blows my mind that 50 years into his recording career, Buddy is still recording albums of such magnitude. He hasn't slowed down a bit or missed a beat. As far as contemporary blues albums go, this cd is completely relevant... And from a guitar player perspective; whether shredding, playing with his teeth, or saying "more with less," Buddy Guy continues to blow away much of the competition, young and old alike.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Ben Monder / Amorphae</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1OcUZ14"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1OcUZ14</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This ECM Records release is atmospheric, textural, experimental, music; at times a bit Frisellian. Ben on electric and electric baritone guitars, Pete Rende on synthesizer, Andrew Cyrille (4 tracks), and Paul Motian on drums (2 tracks). Tunes in solo, duo, and trio formats. I believe the Paul Motian tracks (Recorded in October 2010) might be, as of today, his most recent posthumous drum tracks. Note: Ben plays guitar on the new David Bowie cd, which will most likely appear on my best of 2016 list next year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>North Mississippi Allstars & Anders Osborne / Freedom & Dreams</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1SIsJ8B"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1SIsJ8B</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, NMAS and Anders have joined forces. NMAS has been on my "hot list" since I first heard 'em in 2000, while Anders came on my radar roughly 4 years ago and has since morphed into one of my favorite live performances.... This cd is worthy of repeated listenings. I like the Anders penned tunes best; Katrina, and Lonely Love. Note: The above Amazon link is for MP3 downloads, it seems a physical cd currently is only available from the Anders Osborne website: <a href="http://squ.re/1OJmH5G">http://squ.re/1OJmH5G</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Planet of the Abts / All Things the Valley</b></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1Nzua5x"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://amzn.to/1Nzua5x</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another very proggy album from Gov't Mule's rhythm section, plus guitarist/keyboardist/singer T-Bone Andersson, and special guests including Warren Haynes and Danny Louis. This, same as their previous release, sounds more like Yes or Pink Floyd then it does Gov't Mule.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
* <b>Ben Seawell / South Winds Jostle</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #a3aaae; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15.6px; line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1Q33z3K">http://bit.ly/1Q33z3K</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm biased on this cd due to a personal connection. I know Ben as a friend, and as a NYC jazz bass player; but he plays multiple instruments here, and also sings, and this is far from a jazz cd. I hear traces of the Beatles, Brian Wilson, Steve Earle, Prince, and Joe Jackson; among other notes. Also, not one band but many different sidemen on different tunes, including (to name a few) Doug Wamble, Frank Kimbrough, Henry Butler, Becca Stevens, and Leo Nocentelli. I highly recommend this disc.</span>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-39892784517411835362015-01-13T11:04:00.000-08:002015-07-26T12:13:04.453-07:00Best cd's of 2014<br />
First, let me state my position on live cd's in regards to this list. I normally don't list live recordings of bands that allow taping, as the web is already flooded with available copies of their shows. I also don't list archive recordings when the bootleg version has been widely available for years. All that being said, 2014 was a good year, and bittersweet, when it comes to live releases. Here are a few live releases worth seeking out:<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1suVOd4" target="_blank">Crosby Stills Nash & Young 1974</a> - 3 cd's and 1 dvd.<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1u3pNUU" target="_blank">Gov't Mule - Dark Side of the Mule</a> - Recorded in Boston on Halloween 2008. This was current bass player Jorgen Carlsson's 2nd live gig with the band, and they cover Pink Floyd (2 backup singers from last PF tour too). I got the deluxe version which includes a dvd.<br />
<br />
The Allman Brother Band called it a day in 2014, after 45 years... Did I mention bittersweet? Anyway, I would say any of the live recordings from 2014 (available from <a href="http://www.hittinthenote.com/cart/c-174-2014.aspx" target="_blank">Hittin' the Note</a>) are pretty killer; but I am partial to shows I saw, and these are the 3 I would recommend starting with - These 2 shows that ended the March Beacon run, when Brother Gregg was absent due to Bronchitis, and consequentially Kofi Burbridge and Rob Baracco both played keys/piano the entire shows, and they were augmented with guest singers as well (Jimmy Hall, Junior Mack), plus the usual assortment of guests on guitars and horns. These dates of these 2 shows are <a href="http://bit.ly/1yaKP9E" target="_blank">3/21/2014</a> and <a href="http://bit.ly/1wVkdVJ" target="_blank">3/22/2014</a>. However, the main must-have 2014 ABB show, especially if you only get 1 show, is the final ABB show, also at the Beacon;<a href="http://bit.ly/1DDP9kJ" target="_blank">10/28/2014</a>, a truly epic 3 set tour de force.<br />
<br />
Okay, onward to my picks. Please note these opinions and comments are mine and mine alone, yours may differ and that is okay. If I left something off that you like a lot, let me know about it below in the comments, or send me an email. Now, back to my list... Here it is, in alphabetic order:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Best cd's of 2014</div>
<br />
* <b>Three Bells (Mike Auldridge - Jerry Douglas - Rob Ickes)</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/13RgHnk" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/13RgHnk</a><br />
Dobro legend Mike Auldridge died in Decmber of 2012 after a decade long battle with prostate cancer. This cd was recorded shortly before his demise, and along with Mike features 2 other dobro maestri; Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes. There are 11 tracks, mainly originals written by the 3, plus a handful of standards. It was produced by Jerry Douglas, partly to document the three of them together on disc, and partly as an exercise in supporting Mike during a difficult time. The result is beautiful, and you needn't be a bluegrass aficionado to dig this music, even though it's likely to be found in the bluegrass section of your cd/album store.<br />
<br />
* <b>The BIG Something - Truth Serum</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1BJjQCO" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1BJjQCO</a><br />
This is the 3rd studio cd by Burlington NC's BIG Something, and their 3rd effort produced by John Custer (who has produced some notable albums by NC bands Corrosion of Conformity, Cry of Love, and Dag, including the Dag masterpiece, <a href="http://amzn.to/1A8Jg8L" target="_blank">Righteous</a>). This is more of the same, with nods to jambands/funk/70's prog/fusion/electronica. Strangely, not 1 but 2 of the tracks remind me of Frank Marino - Megaladon (the vocal style brings to mind Frank's Dragonfly); and the instrumental track, Sirens, could be from a Mahogany Rush cd. This is their best cd yet, and I believe this band is on the verge of blowing up nationally.<br />
<br />
* <b>Wil Blades - Field Notes</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/16UiIkt" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/16UiIkt</a><br />
Organist Wil Blades has been on my radar for about 8 years now, I discovered him via Will Bernard. He's a protege of Dr. Lonnie Smith, and he's a Chicago native based in the San Francisco bay area. This is Wil's first recording of a organ trio with him as bandleader (Hammond B3 and clavinet), and this is modern old-school organ trio jazz with plenty of groove. He's accompanied by Tortoise's Jeff Parker on guitar, and New Orleans drummer Simon Lott. This album was financed by a successful Kickstarter crowd-funding campaign. Fans of Jimmy Smith, Jack McDuff, and Lonnie Smith, etc, will find plenty to like on this disc.<br />
<br />
* <b>Luther Dickinson - Rock 'n Roll Blues</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1A0CeCM" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1A0CeCM</a><br />
I'm wholeheartedly digging this fine disc. It's stripped down lo-fi acoustic blues, roughly 35 minutes in length; guitar, upright bass, drums, and fife. Lyrically, this is Luther's autobiography, describing his punk/DYI beginnings to becoming a working musician. Musically, it's quite different from the North Mississippi Allstars; but very strong nonetheless, which is no surprise to me, as Luther Dickinson is immensely talented.<br />
<br />
* <b>Marty Friedman - Inferno</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/145LOMu" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/145LOMu</a><br />
I first heard of metal guitarist shredder extraordinaire Marty Friedman, when he appeared on the 1987 Shrapnel Records release, "Cacaphony - Speed Metal Symphony" along with shredder Jason Becker. He later achived fame on a large scale as a member of Megadeth from 1990 through '99, including the Rust in Peace disc which is considered by many to be Megadeth's finest hour and one of the great thrash albums of all time. He fell off my radar when he left Megadeth, and I came across this cd while browsing the bins at Amoeba Records back during the summer. I was surprised how solid a disc this is. Rodrigo y Gabriela guest on one track, Tony Franklin appears on bass, Jorgen Munkeby shreds on the saxophone, and there are some lines/parts written by Jason Becker (Definitely check out <a href="http://www.jasonbeckermovie.com/about" target="_blank">Not Dead Yet</a> if you're not familiar with Jason's story). If you're into instrumental metal guitar music, you should check out this cd.<br />
<br />
* <b>Bill Frisell - Guitar in the Space Age</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1CN2Hdb" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1CN2Hdb</a><br />
Bill Frisell, Greg Leisz, Tony Scherr, and Kenny Wolleson. I consider this a continuation of his John Lennon cd from 2011. There are 2 Frisell originals here, and the remaining 12 are covers, some well-known, of various different songs/artists. The range of genres here is fairly diverse; from Link Wray to Brian Wilson to Speedy West & Jimmy Bryant to Duane Eddy to Junior Wells to Ray Davies, etc... Considered by some to be a nostalgia disc on the tame side; and yeah it might be tame compared to Naked City and some of the other more out projects he has been involved in (he still does the out stuff too, 2013's "Silent Comedy" for example), but nonetheless I still consider it a fine disc worthy of repeated listenings.<br />
<br />
* <b>Greyhounds - Accumulator</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1KqB0ch" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1KqB0ch</a><br />
I was recommended this cd by a couple different people, then heard they were on tour as openers with the Tedeschi Trucks Band. So, I googled Greyhounds and found this Austin duo are currently active members of Mofro. Sold! Multi-Instrumentalists Anthony Cole on drums and organ; and Anthony Farrell on guitar and keyboards. This duo has actually been playing together since 1999, long before joining Mofro... This is their first release (of a 3 cd contract) on Memphis'es Ardent label, and consists of previously released tracks from their earlier self-released albums, all updated, plus a couple of new songs. They are known to record using very cheap pawn shop instruments, thus they achieve a certain authentic lo-fi sound. This is soulful funky swampy southern-ish rock that brings to mind Allen Tousaint, Dr. John, and Gregg Allman's solo material. Here is the official video of opening track, <a href="http://youtu.be/ZDspdfQSdh8" target="_blank">What's On Your Mind</a>. I look forward to their next release.<br />
<br />
* <b>Charlie Haden / Jim Hall (self-titled)</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1zmUnuq" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1zmUnuq</a><br />
This previously-unissued recording from the 1990 Montreal International Jazz Festival documents these 2 recently deceased jazz icon's first live full length set together, as a duo. At the time, Hall was 59 years old and Haden was approaching 53. Consider this a memorial, and if you're a fan of Jim Hall and/or Charlie Hayden, this is a must listen. If you're unfamiliar with either, and interested in checking them out; this is as good a place as any cd to start with. Tied with Hard Working Americans for my favorite cd of the year!<br />
<br />
* <b>Hard Working Americans (self-titled)</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/13Facnp" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/13Facnp</a><br />
Todd Snider sings lead vocals, Widespread Panic's Dave Schools on bass, Duane Trucks on drums, Ryan Adams and Chris Robinson's guitar-slinger Neal Casal, and Great American Taxi's Chad Staehly on keyboards. Although the members probably don't love the term, they're pretty much considered a super-group. Their live band is augmented with Jesse Aycock on lap steel. On this debut release they cover 11 songs by well-known song-writers, and the common lyrical theme is hard working Americans of course. My favorite track is Randy Newman's <a href="http://youtu.be/Rr8dN004yzk" target="_blank">Mr. President, Have Pity on the Working Man</a>. This is an excellent cd and they're currently one of my favorite bands to see live. Tied with Charlie Haden/Jim Hall for my favorite cd of the year!<br />
<br />
* <b>Medeski Martin & Wood + Nels Cline - Woodstock Sessions Vol 2</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1tiALFH" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1tiALFH</a><br />
While MMW's collaborations with guitarist John Scofield are heavy on funk and groove, this collaboration with Nels Cline leans more towards MMW's live forte (experimental/avant garde/weirdness); that is no surprise, since this was recorded in front of a live audience at a recording studio. 2 hours of music was captured, then edited and mixed into this 64 minutes of music, which they're referring to as a live performance/recording session hybrid. Whatever it is, it's very badass. More of the Nels you would hear with his own band, the Nels Cline Singers, versus his playing with Wilco. This cd is OUT, I say check it out, although not for the faint of heart :-O<br />
Also worthy of repeated listenings is Medeski Scofield Martin & Wood's 2014 release, <a href="http://amzn.to/1K0tDrT" target="_blank">Juice</a>. <br />
<br />
* <b>Opeth - Pale Communion</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1H3D9Ir" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1H3D9Ir</a><br />
I've been a fan of this Swedish band for years. This is their 11th studio effort, and in my opinion they have now officially shifted genres, from progressive death metal to straight up progressive rock. This is their 2nd consecutive disc with clean vocals (3rd overall); and honestly, I don't miss the cookie monster vocals, at all. Aside from the clean vocals, this is pretty much Opeth as usual; complex written instrumental sections, guitar and keyboard solos and leads and harmonies at lightning fast speeds, and plenty of acoustic guitar parts to demonstrate their apt use of dynamics.<br />
<br />
* <b>Bruce Piephoff - Soft Soap Purrings</b><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/16UAKmD" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/16UAKmD</a><br />
Disclaimer: Bruce is a personal friend and my brother Scott Sawyer plays electric guitars on this cd and is also a co-producer; so I'm biased, it is what it is. However, I was not involved in the production of this cd and have no qualms listing it here :-) This album, like his previous disc, was financed by a successful Kickstarter crowd-funding campaign. Bruce has been a staple of the North Carolina arts scene for decades. Based in Greensboro, Bruce has recorded (including this newest release) 22 albums/discs of original music, published a couple books of poetry, and still gets out and performs live on a regular basis. Bruce's storytelling and lyrics are rich in imagery. I consider him a modern Day Bob Dylan or Woody Guthrie, and I don't use either of those references lightly. The fact that Bruce hasn't achieved fame/notoriety on a grander scale boggles my mind. This disc has a little bit of everything, as far as genres go - Americana, spoken word, roots rock, folk, jazz; and it features an A-List of NC's finest musicians. Check out <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/brucepiephoff/song/20164895-dakota" target="_blank">Dakota</a>, a spoken word track on the disc. Lastly, this disc was on the initial Grammy ballot this year, although it didn't make the final ballot. Still, no small feat.<br />
<br />
* <b>Pink Floyd - The Endless River</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/13FFM46" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/13FFM46</a><br />
The Endless River is essentially unreleased tracks from the '94 Division Bell sessions, 20 hours mixed down to an hour of mostly spacey ambient music that came to be known as "The Big Spliff" and was intended to be released an a companion disc to the Division Bell; but it was never released. Post 2012 there was some additional tweaking in the studio, including guitar and drum overdubs, and 1 track was augmented with vocals, sung by David Gilmour and written by his wife and muse, Polly Samson. This a Division Bell 20th anniversary release, and tribute to Pink Floyd keyboardist Richard Wright who died back in 2008. Same deal as the last 2 cd's, Momentary Lapse of Reason and Division Bell; Roger Waters does not appear on this recording in any way, shape, or form. Those who are firmly entrenched in Roger Waters' camp may not care for this cd. Me, I am in David Gilmour's camp and I'm very happy this was released. There's plenty of Gilmour's trademark guitar and a fair amount of lap steel, Nick Mason sounds great and there is some tribal drumming on the disc remisiscent of earlier PF; and being a tribute to Ric Wright, there is plenty of great keyboards throughout. If you dug the late 80's/early 90's PF then you'll dig this. I bought the deluxe set that came with a hardcover book, postcards, and high resolution audio (blu ray) disc with an additional 39 minutes of music; and that is what I linked to above. Here is a link to their official video: <a href="http://youtu.be/Ezc4HdLGxg4" target="_blank">http://youtu.be/Ezc4HdLGxg4</a><br />
<br />
* <b>Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters - Lullaby and... The Ceaseless Roar</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1CNh1m6" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1CNh1m6</a><br />
As a long-time Led Zeppelin devotee, it amazes me how Percy reinvents himself every few years, and consistently puts out high quality music. This one is no different than the last few cd's he has recorded; very different, stylistically, compared to anything else he has recorded. I'm not sure what genre this falls under - Psychedelic British Folk/World music? If you're strictly into Led Zeppelin and his earlier more "Zeppelin-ish" solo efforts, then it's possible this might not do it for you. If, like me, you're also a fan of Robert Plant's later solo efforts, post Fate of Nations disc; you won't be disappointed here. <br />
<br />
* <b>Rich Robinson - The Ceaseless Sight</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1CNgLmR" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1CNgLmR</a><br />
This is Rich Robinson's (of Black Crowes) third solo effort. I like it better than his last one, which is no small feat (2011's Through a Crooked Sun was a GREAT disc). These Robinson brothers are quite gifted. Between Rich's solo releases and the Chris Robinson Brotherhood, they have released a plethora of great music since the Crowes went on hiatus. Like the CRB albums of the last few years, this is somewhat reminiscent of the Crowes; but where the CRB leans more towards 70's Jerry Garcia Band, this album leans more toward 70's Rolling Stones. Rich is known to play a lot of different guitars, and on this disc he indeed gets many different sounds and tones. Also, the disc is peppered throughout with great keyboards by Marco Benevento and Steve Molitz. I like this cd a little better than brother Chris'es 2014 release {noted below).<br />
<br />
* <b>Peter Rowan - Dharma Blues</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1zUdnTH" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1zUdnTH</a><br />
I've been a big Peter Rowan fan for decades, starting with Panama Red and the Free Mexican Airforce. These days I call the bay area home and because he is a neighbor, figuratively speaking, I get the chance to see him perform live semi-regularly. According to the liner notes, he's been on a spiritual journey these last few years, is a practicing Buddhist, and this disc lyrically is a reflection of that jouney. This is beautifully recorded mellow music that falls somewhere in the mix of Americana/world music/folk/bluegrass. Jack Casady plays bass on the disc and Gillian Welch sings on 3 tracks.<br />
<br />
* <b>Steelism - 615 to Fame</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/14wT5Fk" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/14wT5Fk</a><br />
Of all the cd's listed here, this one was the biggest surprise, albeit a pleasant surprise. Jeremy Fetzer from Ohio on the Telecaster, and steel guitarist Spencer Cullum Jr from Essex, UK bonded while sidemen in county singer Caitlin Rose's band. Half recorded in Nashville, and half recorded at Muscle Shoals, they collaborated on a handful of original instrumental tunes (plus one Pete Drake cover) and added drums and bass, and also some guests on a few tracks: various strings, accordion, keyboards; and this is the result. Musically, is is difficult to pigeonhole this onto one genre... It is not country, although parts are definitely country-ish, I'd say it's rock. Some of it reminds me of Danny Gatton's Redneck Jazz Band - I'm not saying these guys have Danny's or Buddy Emmon's chops, I think it's just hearing steel guitar in this context that draws the comparison.<br />
<br />
* <b>The War on Drugs - Lost in the Dream</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1HO9kdw" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1HO9kdw</a><br />
This is the third full-length album by Philadelphia band The War on Drugs. It took a year to record/produce this disc, and the attention to detail is evident. Musically, to me, it's indie rock with a dose of Americana and some 80's classic rock too. Think Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers meets Dire Straits meets Pink Floyd. I highly recommend this cd and also their live show. This was a breakout disc and breakout year for War on Drugs.<br />
<br />
* <b>John Wesley - Disconnect</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1tPr2wl" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1tPr2wl</a><br />
Guitarist John Wesley has been on my radar for a decade or so. He's a part-time sideman in Porcupine Tree; he's credited on 3 of their studio releases and has toured with them as 2nd guitarist/vocalist. Musically I would say more indie/alternative/classic rock flavored... I still consider it progressive rock, but less prog than PT or Steven Wilson solo. Rush'es Alex Lifeson takes a solo on <a href="http://youtu.be/V5Q71QYLTNQ" target="_blank">Once a Warrior</a>.<br />
<br />
* <b>Jack White - Lazaretto</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1xVOjep" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1xVOjep</a><br />
Jack White's latest masterpiece. I do like his solo efforts best, of all the different bands/projects he's involved with. This cd debuted on Billboard at #1, and it's definitely on more best of 2014 lists than anything else I've mentioned here.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
============================================================</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Honorable Mention</div>
<br />
* <b>High Beamz - Be Nice, or Go Home</b><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1w6jTSC" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/1w6jTSC</a><br />
Great local (Bay Area) music, guitarist Chis Zanardi's ever evolving project, and he wrote all the tunes; edgy funk/fusion/rock instrumental music. Chris has been on my radar 6 or 7 years now, via his previous band Five Eyed Hand. . On this outing, in addition to Chris is James Whiton on upright electric bass, probably best known as bass player in Eric Mcfadden Trio; but he also played on Tom Waits' 2011 release, Bad As Me. Also Cecil P-Nut McDaniels on midi-horns, Sam Phelps on organ, and Erin Cassidy on drums. Chris gets a lot of different sounds/tones/textures on this disc, and the whole band stretches out and sounds great. I highly recommend this cd.<br />
<br />
* <b>Chris Robinson Brotherhood - Phosphorescent Harvest</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1s3qthl" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1s3qthl</a><br />
Chris Robinson is a MFing rockstar, with conviction (a hippie/deadhead too, so it seems). He is in it for the long haul. To go from playing in front of tens of thousands of people as front man of the Black Crowes, to basically starting over with a new band and playing very small venues (comparatively) where you're not making a lot of money; a lot of "stars" have too much ego to concede to that scenario, but not Chris. This is the 3rd CRB studio cd to be released since 2012, and they're pretty much touring non-stop too. This cd is more of the same, very reminiscent of 70's Jerry Garcia Band/Grateful Dead, a little country-rock, and rock and roll, with heavy doses of psychedelia; although not quite as trippy as 2012's Big Moon Ritual. Regarding CRB live: Chris is playing guitar as well as singing and his picking seems to be just a little bit better each time I see him, and his lead guitar player Neal Casal continues to rip excellent solo after solo as usual.<br />
<br />
* <b>Red Dragon Cartel (self-titled)</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1ri1zds" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1ri1zds</a><br />
Jake E Lee's triumphant return. Yes, Jake E Lee of Ozzy's band (Bark at the Moon) and Badlands. He'd mostly been in seclusion the last couple decades. Eddie Trunk of the Metal Show sought him out for an episode, and not long after this cd was recorded, and it's surprisingly solid. Nothing new here; rock & roll similar to styles of music he's played on previous recordings with the aforementioned bands (80's rock that straddles the lines between metal and blues rock). Jake hasn't lost his touch. Cheap Trick's Robin Zander sings on one track.<br />
<br />
* <b>Sturgill Simpson - Metamodern Sounds in Country Music</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1AT9Ojy" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1AT9Ojy</a><br />
I heard about this cd from several people in recent weeks, true outlaw country, and I just recently picked up a copy. I haven't had a chance to digest the music completely, but I can say this gives me hope for the future of country music... Also, any cd that thanks Terrence McKenna and Aldous Huxley in the credits just might be an interesting listen ;-) He is on the 2015 Grammy ballot for best Americana album.<br />
<br />
* <b>Hank Williams III - Ramblin' Man</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1JP8elk" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1JP8elk</a><br />
This is a compilation album put out by Hank's former label, Curb Records. This is an unauthorized release, I'm pretty sure Hank isn't receiving any $ for it; and I've read he doesn't want you to buy it and he endorses BitTorrent downloads, so do search on thepiratebay or demonoid if you've got a login :-O The cd is 8 songs, only 25 minutes in length; but what a sweet 25 minutes it is. All the songs were previously released on other cd's. The versions of his grandfather's Ramblin' Man and Merle Haggard's Okie feature the Melvins, plus Hank on vocals, and Henry Bogdan (bass player from Helmet) on steel guitar. The <a href="http://youtu.be/rfNvKANrGDk" target="_blank">Ramblin' Man</a> is brilliant; as good as his grandfather's version in my opinion. There are also covers by Johnny Paycheck and ZZ Top, and a couple tunes by his hellbilly/metal band, Assjack.<br />
<br />RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-64773999088132428132014-04-08T14:08:00.000-07:002014-04-08T20:58:25.041-07:00Best cd's of 2013<div>
Okay, here is my belated list of my favorite music of 2013... All my opinions are mine and mine alone. If I left something off that you like a lot, let me know about it below in the comments; or write your own blog ;-) This year's descriptions will be shorter than in some years past; due to the fact that we're already into <strike>February, March</strike>, April of 2014 and this is just now being written/published. As usual, I did include links to all the cd's listed here. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, I won't list my bro Scott Sawyer's new cd, <i>Dreamers</i>, because I have a producer credit on it (conflict of interest?); but if I wasn't involved in the production, it would definitely be on the list. It's mostly original jazz tunes, 3 covers (Irving Berlin, Bob Dylan, Nick Drake), a great band and some wonderful guest appearances by Kate McGarry, Bruce Piephoff, and Tony Williamson. Jason Richmond recorded/engineered it, and it was mastered by the great Gavin Lurssen. CD Baby link is here: <a href="http://bit.ly/1nBgavp">http://bit.ly/1nBgavp</a> – It's also on iTunes and Spotify... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, I normally don't mention re-issues... But I highly recommend the 4 cd version of the Allman Brothers band's Brothers and Sisters album, <a href="http://amzn.to/Q0E6vx">http://amzn.to/Q0E6vx</a> – The same album as always, plus the 1973 Winterland show (very nicely remastered compared to past bootleg versions), and also a disc of outtakes and alternate tracks. A must have if you're an ABB fanatic like me. Same statement applies to the Skydog 7 cd box set, <a href="http://amzn.to/1km4smO">http://amzn.to/1km4smO</a>, released in 2013, produced by Galadrielle Allman (Duane's daughter – She has also written a book I highly recommend – <a href="http://bit.ly/1hdPvmB">http://bit.ly/1hdPvmB</a>).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now, back to what I was saying... Here it is, in alphabetic order:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Best cd's of 2013</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*<b> John Abercrombie Quartet – 39 Steps</b> </div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1d3m05G">http://amzn.to/1d3m05G</a></div>
<div>
Guitarist John Abercrombie has been making music on record since 1970 and is a heavyweight in the jazz world. I discovered him as a teenager, via his brilliant Gateway Trio cd's, which paved the way for me to transition from metal head to jazz head. This cd is on ECM Records and he is joined by Marc Copland on piano, Drew Gress on double bass, and the great Joey Baron on drums. If you're not familiar with John Abercrombie, this is as good as place as any to start; although you also can't go wrong with any of his Gateway Trio cd's either (there are 4).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Scott Amendola and Charlie Hunter – Pucker</b> </div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1ixLk67">http://amzn.to/1ixLk67</a></div>
<div>
Drummer Scott Amendola has been on my radar for over a decade now; whether by way of touring/recording with Bill Frisell, Nels Cline, Will Bernard, Wil Blades, or Charlie Hunter... Charlie, not by coincidence, has been one of my favorite performers, both on the stage and on disc for over that same aforementioned decade now. His duo lineup has come to be my favorite of his band configurations (aside from the great but sadly brief <i>Pound for Pound</i> lineup, which also featured Scott), and this duo recording is no exception. Whether it's Charlie or Scottie's name in front, the result is the same pure groove. These 2 have been playing together for a long time and it shows.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*<b> BIG Something (self titled) </b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1cq50k2">http://amzn.to/1cq50k2</a></div>
<div>
Produced by John Custer; who has produced some notable albums by NC bands Corrosion of Conformity, Cry of Love, and Dag (including Dag's masterpiece, <i>Righteous</i>). If I had to pick a category for them musically, I'd say jamband; but there strong elements of funk, 70's prog-rock and fusion, especially the keyboards; and some of the horns make me think early Red Hot Chili Peppers. This is their 2nd release produced by John, and this band already has a very dedicated fanbase. I expect a bright future for the BIG Something!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Black Sabbath - 13</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1dhWBUZ">http://amzn.to/1dhWBUZ</a> </div>
<div>
First off: The fact that the rift between Bill Ward and the remaining 3 has progressed to it's current state sucks major ass. All Bill Ward mention/images have been removed/photoshopped from the official website, aside from the band history tab, and from a fan perspective that is just plain pitiful. Okay, on to the review: This cd was delayed over a year due to Tony Iommi's cancer diagnosis/treatment. Drummer Bill Ward is out, replaced by Brad Wilk of Rage Against the Machine. Most of this album sounds like material from their first 4 albums. They have stayed very true to their heavily blues influenced prog-rock roots. Their first album was released 44 (!) years ago, 1970. Ozzy, Tony, and Geezer are all in their 60's; and considering that, this cd sounds amazingly fresh. Ozzy's voice sounds good, and unlike Ozzy's recent solo cd's, this is NOT heavily compressed sludge designed for iPod listeners; the cd actually sounds very nice blasting out of my JBL's.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
* <b>Eric Burdon – 'Til Your River Runs Dry</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/19E209s">http://amzn.to/19E209s</a></div>
<div>
I was never a huge Eric Burdon or Animals Fan; although biggest of props go to Animals bass player Chas Chandler for “discovering” Jimi Hendrix. Yes, this is the same Eric Burdon who recorded <i>House of the Rising Sun</i> 50 (!) years ago. I bought this cd because I knew Eric McFadden and Wally Ingram were all over it. It turns out Jon Cleary also plays some guitar on it. I consider this mostly a blues album, at times with a strong Nola vibe; and a surprisingly very strong effort. After buying it I researched it online, and more than one reviewer deemed it the best Eric Burdon album ever released.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Steve Earle and the Dukes (& Duchesses) – The Low Highway</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1asifRt">http://amzn.to/1asifRt</a></div>
<div>
Steve's 1995 release <i>Train a Comin'</i> is on my top 10 all time favorite album list. Not all of Steve's releases since then have blown me away. This however, I do rank among his best and in the top tier of the vast Steve Earle catalog.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>The Big E: A Salute to Steel Guitarist Buddy Emmons</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/LBQ4tP">http://amzn.to/LBQ4tP</a></div>
<div>
Buddy Emmons fans belong to a special club. If you're a fan, you'll love this cd and appreciate it for what it is. I'm not gonna name all the famous musicians who play on it, because there are too many to list here. But rest assured, Nashville is well represented. The entire cd is great. My favorite tunes are <i>Country Boy</i>, with Vince Gill on Tele and vocals and Paul Franklin on steel guitar; and <i>Night Life</i>, featuring Raul Malo on vocals and Randle Currie on steel guitar :-) If you're not familiar with Buddy Emmons, I would recommend checking him out ASAP; starting with his <i>Steel Guitar Jazz</i> cd, and/or Danny Gatton's <i>Redneck Jazz Explosion</i>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Michael Lee Firkins – Yep</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/190PIY7">http://amzn.to/190PIY7</a></div>
<div>
Every year I seem to latch onto at least one cd from the Magna Carta or Shrapnel record label, which for better or worse are labels I'd guesstimate 95% of cd sales are from old white guys who came of age in the late 70's, 80's, and early 90's ;-) before grunge arrived and temporarily silenced guitar “shredding.” So, Michael Lee Firkins is a virtuoso guitarist (standard and slide) based in Marin County, Northern California. He is yet another fantastic artist worthy of wider exposure. This is a Magna Carta release; and like his previous releases of recent years, this one has an star band backing him: Chuck Leavell on keyboards, Matt Abts on drums, and Andy Hess on bass. Unlike his previous efforts, this cd is NOT all instrumental, there are some songs with vocals. All tunes are originals, no covers. Fans of blues rock guitar, Jeff Beck, Gov't Mule, ZZ Top, etc, will enjoy this disc very much.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*<b> Gov't Mule – Shout!</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1kdFlFg">http://amzn.to/1kdFlFg</a></div>
<div>
Warren Haynes stepped up his game with this latest release, which is on the Blue Note label. I rank it among my 2 favorite Mule recordings, which are <i>Dose</i> and <i>Mighty High</i>. What sets this apart from his other releases is that it is 2 cd's with the same songs – One cd with guest singers on each song, and another cd with Warren singing everything. Although the guest vocals are top shelf and sound great (Dr. John, Ben Harper, Toots Hibbert, Elvis Costello, etc), after repeated listens I have found that overall I prefer the disc with Warren handling all the vocals.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Ben Harper with Charlie Musselwhite – Get Up</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1asdYxj">http://amzn.to/1asdYxj</a></div>
<div>
Album of the year. Number 1 in my book. A blues album, pure and simple. It won a blues Grammy this year. Honest soulful music and lyrics. Ben and Charlie knocked this one out of the park and I can't wait to hear their their next collaborative effort.<br />
<br />
<div>
* <b>Christian McBride & Inside Straight – People Music</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1g528vW">http://amzn.to/1g528vW</a> </div>
<div>
The liner notes state Christian formed this acoustic jazz combo in response to Village Vanguard club owner Lorraine Gordon’s instructions that if McBride wanted to perform there again, he had to do so without his electric “rock ‘n’ roll band.” The lineup is Christian on upright bass, augmented by vibraphonist Warren Wolf, pianist Peter Martin, alto saxophonist Steve Wilson, and drummer Carl Allen, with drummer Ulysses Owens Jr. jumping on board for a few tracks as well. It is what is is. It's safe to say If you dig straight ahead jazz you'll probably like this, a lot.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>JJ Grey & Mofro – The River</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1mWimPp">http://amzn.to/1mWimPp</a></div>
<div>
Mofro has been on a roll these last few years. This is another Alligator Records release. More of the same swampy Southern rock funk soul music they're been playing for the last decade or so. JJ's lyrics and descriptive imagery evoke, for me, vivid memories of times spent in Nashville and Northern FL. This is the first Mofro studio release featuring Todd Smallie on bass, formerly of the Derek Trucks Band.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>North Mississippi Allstars – World Boogie Is Coming</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1kdG1KJ">http://amzn.to/1kdG1KJ</a></div>
<div>
The NMA are on a roll, I also loved their previous release back in 2011. I guess it's now safe to say Chris Chew is officially no longer an Allstar, bummer. I make this statement based on the fact that since their last release they were touring as a duo, and Chris shows up on this latest cd with a guest artist credit. This is their bluesiest effort yet, but still unmistakeably the NMA. There are 3 NMA originals, and the rest are mostly classic Mississippi blues and/or traditional covers. Robert Plant blows harmonica on a couple songs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Anders Osborne – Peace</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1hksEpZ">http://amzn.to/1hksEpZ</a></div>
<div>
Anders is still riding that wave; his 3rd cd with Alligator Records, his 3rd consecutive cd of very high caliber music. I'm not going to describe what it sounds like, again; but if you've been reading my blog these last few years, then you may recall I am a big Anders Osborne fan. If you missed my references the previous times, I'll just say it's psychedelic rock music with Nola origins.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Joel Paterson – Handful of Strings</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://bit.ly/19DZhg7">http://bit.ly/19DZhg7</a></div>
<div>
Joel is a monster guitarist, relatively unknown, based in Chicago. He plays jazz regularly at the Green Mill, and is equally at home playing blues - He is also a full time member of the Cash Box Kings (Blind Pig Records artist). Joel recorded this all instrumental cd in the heavily overdubbed style of mostly early Les Paul recordings, but also some blues and rockabilly flavored tunes too. He plays all the instruments; which are guitar, lap steel, pedal steel, bass, and snare drum.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Marc Ribot's Ceramic Dog – Your Turn</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/KnuLLo">http://amzn.to/KnuLLo</a></div>
<div>
This is the 2nd Ceramic Dog cd. I dug the first one too. This one is more rock less experimental than the previous, shorter more structured tunes; but still plenty of avant garde, free jazz, punk, and other genres hybridized together. The cd is half instrumental / half songs with lyrics. My favorite tunes are <i>Masters of the Internet</i>, <i>Take 5</i> (this berserk version must have Dave Brubeck spinning in his grave), and <i>We are the Professionals</i>; which could pass for the Beastie Boys in their prime.<br />
<br />
<div>
* <b>John Scofield – Uberjam Deux</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/Jxz5ry">http://amzn.to/Jxz5ry</a></div>
<div>
The first Uberjam cd was back in 2002. Musically, the tunes are just a little less experimental than the last one. Still very funky. The band is Sco on guitars, Avi Bortnick on guitars/samplers, Andy Hess on bass, John Medeski on keys, and Adam Deitch and Louis Cato on drums. I was a big fan of the first Ubderjam cd and this follow up exceeded my high expectations.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Robert Randolph Presents: The Slide Brothers</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/190SlZS">http://amzn.to/190SlZS</a></div>
<div>
This cd blew me away upon first listen. Today's top Sacred Steel genre pedal steel and lap steel guitar masters step outside the House of God Church, and play some blistering versions of classic rock and blues tunes (including Allman Brothers, Clapton, George Harrison, Elmore James, among others) plus a few unexpected gems thrown in too (a Fatboy Slim song for example). If you're a blues fan or steel guitar fan, this is a must-hear cd.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Steven Wilson – The Raven that Refused to Sing: And Other Stories</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1dYe5mB">http://amzn.to/1dYe5mB</a></div>
<div>
The busiest man in the prog-rock universe found the time in 2013 to record/release his 3rd solo effort and his best album yet. The cd was co-produced by Alan Parsons (who contributes 1 burning guitar solo), and also features Govan Guthrie on lead guitar. 6 songs, 3 of which are plus 10 minutes long; this cd is chock full of indulgent displays of musician virtuosity/wankery that prog-rock geeks such as myself love ;-)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>The Wood Brothers – The Muse</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/19DZzUj">http://amzn.to/19DZzUj</a></div>
<div>
Chris Wood (of MMW - On upright bass, harmonica, and vocals) and brother Oliver Wells (on guitar and vocals) are the stars of this show. Produced by the great Buddy Miller. There are also various other musicians on certain tracks (including Buddy on baritone guitar on one song). I would consider this roots rock music, strongly rooted in the blues. Their cover of <i>I Got Loaded</i> (by Los Lobos) is as good, if not better, than the original version. Oliver's voice sometimes brings to mind Levon Helm. I highly recommend this excellent cd!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Honorable Mention</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>The Black Dahlia Murder – Everblack</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1bCR0TX">http://amzn.to/1bCR0TX</a></div>
<div>
An acquired taste. I've been a fan of this melodic death metal band from Michigan since I saw them open for King Diamond roughly 9 years ago. The brutality continues.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* <b>Fareed Haque – Out of Nowhere</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1etTiYB">http://amzn.to/1etTiYB</a></div>
<div>
I've been a Fareed fan since my friend Laurie turned me onto his Blue Note cover version of the classic CSNY album, <i>Deja Vu</i>, back in the late 90's. Since then he has stayed very busy and is best known as guitarist of Garaj Mahal, a jamband whose 11 year run ended in 2011. He is a virtuoso on the instrument, and is as versatile live as any guitarist I have ever seen. He has idolized Pat Martino since he was 9 years old, and this should definitely be considered a return to his roots. </div>
RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-52304704543300772282013-03-30T11:10:00.002-07:002013-03-30T18:32:41.531-07:00Best cd's of 2012...<br />
Greetings, and my apologies for the extreme delay in finishing this list of my favorite cd's of 2012. It's been a very busy few months, and there was so much great music released in 2012, and it took me longer than normal to compile this list. You may disagree with this unhip middle-aged white guy's choices, and that is okay :-)<br />
<br />
Note: Those who know me personally may notice an omission of the Zep Celebration Day set. Well, I did LOVE it, they sounded great; but if I am going to crank up some live Led Zeppelin, it's most likely going to be from 1969, or possibly 1977, not the '07 reunion. Another omission is the Gary Clark cd - I have only heard it a few times, but it didn't blow me away. Lastly, the Black Country Communion cd didn't kill me either; as much as I dug their last 2 cd's, this one just doesn't do it for me.<br />
<br />
Also, because it's already Spring of 2013, let me preface this list with my favorite music of 2013 so far :-)<br />
* Robert Randolph Presents: The Slide Brothers<br />
* Ben Harper with Charlie Musselwhite - Get Up!<br />
* Jimi Hendrix - People, Hell and Angels<br />
* Steven Wilson - The Raven that Refused to Sing<br />
<br />
Okay, thanks for your patience - Here it is, in alphabetical order:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Best CD's of 2012</span></div>
<br />
* <b>Will Bernard Trio – Outdoor Living</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/UqvInN">http://amzn.to/UqvInN</a><br />
Jazz/funk guitarist Will Bernard’s latest disc is a trio recording with his buds Wil Blades on keyboards, and Simon Lott on drums; funky not quite jazz, with Nola leanings… They’ve logged quite a few road miles together and it’s evident on this recording. The band does get ample stretch-out time; it’s not just a guitar work out. This is Will’s first “post Tom Waits” release, and I look forward to his next creative endeavor.<br />
<br />
* <b>Mike Daly – Rock of Ages</b><br />
<a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mikedaly">http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mikedaly</a><br />
Mike Daly is a new discovery for me… He has been Hank Williams Jr’s pedal steel guitarist for the last 18 years; but don’t hold that against him ;-) I am joking; although in the Hank Williams dynasty, a generation <i>was</i> skipped in the greatness department, in my personal opinion (then again, Junior’s shoes are easier to fill than Senior’s). According to some internet assisted research, I found he has worked with many, including Travis Tritt, and also Whiskeytown, and also Ryan Adams. In other words: Mike is another one of many unsung heroes from Nashville. This cd is unlike any pedal steel guitar album/cd you have ever heard. It’s all instrumental covers of 60’s and 70’s classic rock hits by the likes of Led Zeppelin, the Allman Bros, Traffic, Clapton, the Beatles, Jeff Beck, etc. There is no traditional electric guitar on this cd… There IS some 6 string acoustic guitar, both finger-picking and slide, some acoustic Weissenborn guitar, and acoustic mandolin; but all electric guitar sounds on this recording were played with a tonebar… It is very well produced; multi-tracked guitars with many different tones and textures. His great band is comprised of more Nashville pro’s whom I mostly haven’t heard of (except Jimmy Hall, from Wet Willie); yet this is very far from the traditional country music that steel guitar and Nashville is normally associated with. On a side note, I spent my high school years there and realize Nashville has always had a rock scene; and there is a lot of music to enjoy there, besides the country genre exclusively.<br />
<br />
* <b>Floratone – Floratone II</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/14OAr6B">http://amzn.to/14OAr6B</a><br />
Floratone is Bill Frisell (guitars), Matt Chamberlain (drums), Lee Townsend (production), and Tucker Martine (production). This (and the first Floratone cd) started out as duo recordings of Bill and Matt, were then pieced together/produced by Townsend and Martine, then treated to more overdubs from Bill and Matt and additional instrumentation from others; including sidemen in Frisell projects for decades (Ron Miles, Evyind Kang). It’s mostly the same lineup as previous cd, subtracting guest Viktor Krauss but adding guests Mike Elizondo and Jon Brion. This cd has a little more of a band feel than the previous cd. It sounds even better with headphones or turned up loud on good equipment. Lots of different genres of music covered here; if I had to categorize it, I would go with avant-garde… My favorite moments, of which there are several, are when they veer off into Syd Barrett territory.<br />
<br />
* <b>Sam Frasier (self-titled)</b><br />
<a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/samfrazier1">http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/samfrazier1</a><br />
Sam is based in Greensboro, NC and has been a fixture of the arts scene there for probably 3 decades now… The cd is song based, all original music, with Sam on acoustic/electric guitars and lead vocals; and the other musicians are based in the Piedmont area and well known and heard locally. Musically, it’s hard to pigeonhole, I would say maybe roots rock with some acoustic leanings; lyrically, it’s mostly songs about love and relationships. As far as influences go, I hear traces of acoustic Hot Tuna, Neil Young, New Riders of the Purple Sage, Tom Petty, Joe Walsh, and the less commercial side of the Eagles. The cd is only about 40 minutes long, and it left me wanting more.<br />
<br />
* <b>Jimmy Herring – Subject To Change Without Notice</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/TavlKW">http://amzn.to/TavlKW</a><br />
This was produced by John Keane, and backing Jimmy are musicians mainly from the Atlanta area, all well known in jamband and Zambi circles; plus a couple guests: Bela Fleck on banjo (the Bela track, Curfew, is one of the highlights of the cd), and also Bill Evans on saxophone… Beautiful stuff here, great guitar tones and playing (both shredding, and hitting the note), and he plays some nice slide guitar too. I hear a strong Dixie Dregs influence overall; also Jeff Beck’s 70’s instrumental albums, and a bit of 70’s fusion ala Weather Report. This is my favorite Jimmy Herring recording, post Aquarium Rescue Unit, of the many things he has done. I can’t wait to hear his next solo release.<br />
<br />
* <b>David Hidalgo/Mato Nanji/Luther Dickinson – 3 Skulls & the Truth</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/Uh1UYZ">http://amzn.to/Uh1UYZ</a><br />
A bluesy Texas boogie guitar cd starring David Hidalgo from Los Lobos, Luther Dickinson from the North Mississippi Allstars, and Mato Nanji from Indigenous; and produced by Mike Varney, from Shrapnel records. This is a nasty raucous affair, best heard at high volume; reminiscent of Stevie Ray and early ZZ Top. Some of the Shrapnel catalog has been on the generic side despite big names, and I was surprised at how very solid this cd is… Actually, ZZ Top has a new cd out in 2012 too, and this one is better; I do realize music isn’t competition, but this<i> is</i> a “best of” blog.<br />
<br />
* <b>Charlie Hunter – Not Getting Behind Is The New Getting Ahead</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/TgfV7t">http://amzn.to/TgfV7t</a><br />
Charlie keeps stepping it up a notch and changing his game a little bit every couple years. He’s been on a tear these last few years from a live perspective, especially if you’re into blues. This might be his bluesiest cd yet… This is Charlie on 7-String guitar and Scotty Amendola on drums. Like his previous 1988 duo recording, it is hard to believe this is just 2 people. If I hadn’t seen him do it live on stage, countless times, I would probably be a doubter. The stuff he is doing nowadays, the harmonics and panning Frisellian volume swells, while simultaneously playing bass, it’s simply amazing; and it sounds pretty good too :-)<br />
<br />
* <b>The Meldavians – Farewell to Arigemon</b><br />
<a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/themeldavians">http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/themeldavians</a><br />
Bias Alert: My bro Scott Sawyer plays all electric guitars on this cd. The Meldavians is keyboardist Dave Fox’s brainchild. Dave comes from the jazz/avant-garde world, and this band is a vehicle for his compositions, and lyrics to be sung by Melissa Reaves, who also plays acoustic guitar and loops (and contributed 3 songs), and is a MFing rockstar with as much stage presence/charisma as I have ever seen, period (Melissa has toured as Robert Plant’s opening act, and has often been compared to Janis Joplin). Dave is based in Greensboro, Scott is based in Raleigh, Melissa is based in Boone half the year; and on bass, drums, and percussion is a mix of different musicians on different tracks from mainly NC’s jazz world, and this band could be considered a NC supergroup. The music is good old American rock & roll, steeped in blues with some Nola leanings and a bit of prog avant-garde weirdness (GOOD weirdness). The strongest influence I hear is Little Feat (Dave’s keyboards), but I do hear some Zep, and dare I say it; some Janis Joplin. It was produced by Dave and John Plymale, and it briefly had 3 Grammy nominations on on this year’s official Grammy nomination ballot (55th annual), although not enough votes were cast to make it the final ballot… Did I mention that the Meldavians are Aliens from the planet Teronus? I’m serious; you can read about in Dave’s companion <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Illustrated-Tales-Meldavia-Volume/dp/1456516655/" target="_blank">book</a> that was released when the cd came out :-)<br />
<br />
* <b>My Three Sons (self-titled)</b><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/UlGMkc">http://bit.ly/UlGMkc</a><br />
Pete Petty on guitar and the great Kenny Soule/Bobby Patterson rhythm section (Dag, the original Go There). Funky instrumental power trio from NC, with a retro sound reminiscent of late 70’s/80’s fusion bands.<br />
<br />
* <b>Anders Osborne – Black Eye Galaxy</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/SaYjwE">http://amzn.to/SaYjwE</a><br />
Another masterpiece (I don’t use that term lightly) from the enigmatic freak Swede-Nola-Convert. This is his 2nd album on the Alligator label, less blues more rock and psychedelia than his outstanding 2010 effort; but equally scintillating and chock-full of great songs and plenty of burning guitar work. Anders is one of the most exhilarating rock guitarists to creep onto my radar in the last few years, and I highly recommend this superb cd.<br />
<br />
* <b>Public Enemy – Evil Empire of Everything</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/14tDG35">http://amzn.to/14tDG35</a><br />
This is PE’s 12th cd in their 25 year history. It seems like another lifetime when I first heard <i>It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back</i> (Thank you David Harvard!), and realized great music actually was possible with DJ’s and samplers and drum machines. I am very particular about Hip Hop - Outside of Cannibal OX, Eminem, Immortal Technique, and Wu Tang; I basically haven’t gotten into any hip hop artists that became relevant after the late 90’s, and even then, the old-school artists I really got into were few and far between. I wouldn’t know a Kanye West or 50 Cent or Lil’ Wayne song if it smacked me in the face. This is PE’s 2nd release of 2012. Generally, the earlier released <i>Most of my Heroes Still Don’t Appear on No Stamp</i> got more press and better reviews than this one; but I disagree, this one is heavier and angrier (it is post Trayvon Martin). There is plenty of their trademark PE funk; Chuck D still sounds pissed off and his rhymes are expressive, he has not lost his edge. Flava Flav has a couple songs, and they’re actually good, way better than his shitty reality TV show. Professor Griff is there too, only Terminator-X is absent as far as the original PE goes… There are also quite a few guests; Ziggy Marley, Henry Rollins & Tom Morello, and a whole slew of next generation rappers. Sergeant Hawkes from the 1991 track <i>Get the Hell Outta Dodge</i> even makes an appearance! There is also quite a bit of live instrumentation, including the great Clyde Stubblefield on drums. This is by far the best cd PE has put out in quite a few years.<br />
<br />
* <b>Chris Robinson Brotherhood – Big Moon Ritual</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/TeQm9A">http://amzn.to/TeQm9A</a><br />
Aside from the Jimmy Page/Black Crowes Tour, this is my favorite cd of any of the Black Crowes side projects thus far… Chris is lead singer and also plays a lot of guitar, but no brother Rich on this band. Instead, guitarist Neal Casal, best known from his days with Ryan Adams and the Cardinals, joins him. It’s laid back jammy rock and roll. I hear an obvious Black Crowes sound, but I also hear a lot of 70’s classic rock – The Stones, Zeppelin, Allman Brothers, and 70’s era Jerry Garcia Band. The cd is all original music, my favorite tune is <i>Rosalee</i>. There was also a companion cd released a few months later, <i>The Magic Door</i>, which I haven’t yet heard.<br />
<br />
* <b>Freddie Roulette – Jammin’ with Friends</b><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/Tc6dDO">http://bit.ly/Tc6dDO</a><br />
Another cd from lap steel guru extraordinaire Freddie Roulette, with a backing band comprised of veterans from San Francisco’s rock and blues scenes; including Harvey Mandel, David LaFlamme, Barry Melton, Pete Sears, and Kathi McDonald (Kathi’s last recording). It was produced by drummer Michael Borbridge, not promoted very well, and consequentially it barely made a ripple when it was released… But, I am a fanatic, thus I heard about it and snagged a copy right away ;-) Nothing groundbreaking here, just some blues by a uniquely inimitable master of his craft.<br />
<br />
* <b>Royal Southern Brotherhood (self-titled)</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/14xGBZA">http://amzn.to/14xGBZA</a><br />
Devon Allman (son of Gregg) on guitar and vocals, Cyril Neville on percussion and vocals (no intro necessary), Mike Zito on guitar and vocals (a KILLER slide player from St. Louis I was unfamiliar with prior to this band), Yonrico Scott on drums (Derek Trucks Band), and New Orleans/Atlanta heavyweight Charlie Wooton on bass; and produced by Jim Gaines, who has produced hundreds of albums including Stevie Ray’s Grammy winning In Step. It sounds about like what you would expect; a blend of the Allman Brothers Band (I do hear Gregg, in Devon) and the Neville Brothers, swampy rock and roll with a lot of guitar solos. There are plenty of great musical moments all over it. This cd exceeded my expectations and was a very nice surprise. They cover a Grateful Dead song, <i>Fire on the Mountain</i>; and my favorite tracks are <i>Sweet Jelly Doughnut</i>, and the ABB-like instrumental tune, <i>Brotherhood</i>.<br />
<br />
* <b>Rush – Clockwork Angels</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/TeztwP">http://amzn.to/TeztwP</a><br />
I have been a Rush fan since I was 14 when <i>Permanent Wave</i> was released (in 1980). I consider that their peak album; and by the time <i>Signals</i> was released a few years later I began to lose interest in the direction they had taken as a band. Since then they have released a string of albums that for me, were mostly bland and mediocre; with the exception being <i>Hold Your Fire</i> – I thought that was a pretty decent album. So, I am really digging this new one. I will even go so far as to proclaim it the best Rush album since <i>Moving Pictures</i>. If you prefer the earlier Rush that was heavier and featured more guitars/less keyboards, then you will not be disappointed with this latest greatest effort.<br />
<br />
* <b>Storm Corrosion (self-titled)</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/RTZEqo">http://amzn.to/RTZEqo</a><br />
This is a collaboration between Steven Wilson, Porcupine Tree’s guitarist/frontman, and Mikael Akerfeldt, guitarist/frontman for Opeth; a Swedish progressive death metal band. It sounds closer to the mellower side of Opeth than it does Porcupine Tree, but not too much like either band. Some of it reminds me of early Pink Floyd from an experimental psychedelic standpoint, and I also hear maybe a bit of Radiohead and early Genesis. There is quite a lot of acoustic guitar, a string section, and the great Gavin Harrison of Porcupine Tree plays drums. This is dark beautiful music, with overall excellent production; as expected, like anything Steven Wilson’s name is on. I got the version that contains a 2nd disc, blu-ray (audio) 5.1 surround mix with some bonus tracks.<br />
<br />
* <b>Joe Walsh – Analog Man</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/TfIRQB">http://amzn.to/TfIRQB</a><br />
It’s a new Joe Walsh album, enough said; co-produced by Joe and Jeff Lynne, and his first solo effort in 20 years. I have always considered Joe Walsh one of the great underrated rock guitarists of all time. He is sober these days, for better or worse, but his music is still nice and quirky, the lyrics are humorous and good social commentary – He isn’t as unplugged as he’d leave you to believe from the title track’s lyrics; he does still has a clue. Also, he has a star-studded cast of musicians/singers all over the cd; including David Crosby, Graham Nash, Greg Leisz, Little Richard, Dale Peters, Joe Vitale, and Ringo Starr. Welcome back indeed!<br />
<br />
* <b>Keith Waters – Carolina Tracks</b><br />
<a href="http://ncjazzscholarship.org/tracks_cd.html">http://ncjazzscholarship.org/tracks_cd.html</a><br />
Bias alert #2: My bro Scott Sawyer plays guitar on this cd. Keith is a pianist based in CO, but originally from NC; he is a professor and also a writer, and is best known for his written critical analysis of<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Recordings-Quintet-1965-68-Studies-Recorded/dp/0195393848" target="_blank"> the studio recordings of the Miles Davis Quintet 1965 – 1968</a>… Anyway, this music fits firmly in the jazz genre. All musicians on the cd are jazz heavyweights from NC, and the 3 songs that are not original are covers by NC jazz artists/legends Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, and Loonis McGlohon; and… Proceeds from the recording will be used to support a scholarship for a NC high school student to major in music at a NC college/university. Excellent performances abound, and it was engineered by Jason Richmond in Durham, NC. Yes, this cd is definitely a North Carolina affair. My 2 favorite tracks are Denied, and Vigil (for D.V.).<br />
<br />
* <b>Jack White – Blunderbuss</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/Ufo6V3">http://amzn.to/Ufo6V3</a><br />
I didn’t get Jack White the first few times I heard him. The earlier White Stripes albums didn’t knock me out; but by the time the 1st Raconteurs album was released in ’06, I had seen the light. This is his first release since his high profile amicable divorce last summer. Like his previous “break up” record, the White Stripes’ Get behind Me Satan, this album lyrically is mainly about love lost; but it’s not all despair, there is still an air of happiness. It is more polished than the WS, but not over-produced; with plenty of guitar and other instrumentation as well, and the Nashville influence is subtle but obvious. This is my favorite Jack White recording so far, of the many cd’s he has played on/produced.<br />
<br />
* <b>Neil Young & Crazy Horse – Psychedelic Pill</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/171oHzz">http://amzn.to/171oHzz</a><br />
Ahh, good old Neil. You either don’t get it and wonder how people can stand his high pitched vocals and sloppy leads; or you think he is brilliant, his voice and guitar work instantly indentifiable trademarks, and like fine wine he keeps getting better with each passing year… I used to be the former, now I’m the latter. I am a little biased though, because the 2 Neil/Crazyhorse concerts I did see were epic and dare I say it, revelatory… Anyway, this is standard for what you’d expect from a Neil Young & Crazy Horse record: Very long jams laden with copious amounts of overdriven guitar and feedback :-) 2 cd’s with a total of 9 songs, 3 of them over 15 minutes in length, with the longest tune being almost 28 minutes! This is Neil’s best effort since 1994’s <i>Sleeps with Angels</i>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Honorable Mention:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
* <b>Bad Brains – Into the Future</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/V0ilha">http://amzn.to/V0ilha</a><br />
This is another album that caught me off guard; a pretty solid effort considering they have been doing it for 30 years and are not young men; and punk has always been a young man’s game. It is the original lineup, and musically speaking, they are as tight as ever. Granted it’s not <i>I Against I</i>, and some of it is a little formulaic, especially the reggae tunes; but these dudes are all approaching retirement age, and this disc puts a lot of their peers to shame<br />
<br />
* <b>Flea – ‘Helen Burns’</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/14k6dul">http://amzn.to/14k6dul</a><br />
This is an odd quirky 30 minute EP, named after a character from (the novel) Jane Eyre. Musically, it is very much unlike the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Flea describes it as a “mostly instrumental, weird and arty record, the music is mostly just me creating soundscapes that are very emotional for me, but certainly not for everyone! Just me tripping out at home. I am putting it out to raise money for the Silverlake Conservatory of Music; a community based non-profit music school that I am an integral part of.” What I hear sounds like a mix of early 70’s progressive rock (the keyboards), a movie soundtrack, and electronica. Aside from Flea, Patti Smith sings on 1 track, the Silverlake Choir sings on 1 track; and drummers Stella Mozgawa, Chad Smith, and Jack Irons all make appearances. Flea plays bass, keyboards, trumpets, synthesizers, and percussion and drum machines.<br />
<br />
* <b>Medeski Martin & Wood – Free Magic</b><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/11tw3sU">http://bit.ly/11tw3sU</a><br />
Normally I wouldn’t include a live MMW cd here in my best-of-blog, because they are taper-friendly and consequentially the internet is saturated with MMW live audience recordings… However, this disc is all tracks from a 2007 acoustic tour, and it can be harder to capture a good audience recording of MMW acoustic (versus electric); and also, the cd ends with a nice version of the Charles Mingus classic, <i>Nostalgia in Times Square</i>, never before recorded by MMW... There is a reason why John Scofield recently proclaimed MMW his favorite live band.<br />
<br />
* <b>Smashing Pumpkins – Oceania</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/Vc1QOh">http://amzn.to/Vc1QOh</a><br />
I’m surprised I like this album as much as I do. I was heavily into this band in the beginning, but started losing interest after their 3rd and 4th albums - The 1st couple, <i>Gish</i> and <i>Siamese Dream</i>, I consider them both masterpieces. I’ve never been a huge Billy Corgan fan - I always dug his singing, but I was more into James Iha’s guitar playing; and Corgan’s bursting ego is what pushed me away from the band. Now, 12 years have passed since the band broke up and they parted ways, and both Iha and Corgan have both released new cd’s (Iha’s is titled Look to the Sky)… Corgan has retained the Smashing Pumpkins name (all new band members), and I have to say <i>Oceania</i> is by far the better of the two. If you’re a big fan of the earlier Smashing Pumpkins cd’s, then you should check this one out if you haven’t already.<br />
<br />
* <b>Tremonti – All I Was</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/Zp8axY">http://amzn.to/Zp8axY</a><br />
I’ve never been a Creed fan, I’ve never heard any Alter Bridge, and he’s a founding member of both hugely successful bands… I’ve always been a bit of a metal-head though, and what drew me into checking out this cd was Mark Tremonti’s appearance on <a href="http://www.vh1.com/video/that-metal-show/full-episodes/king-diamond-mark-tremonti/1693438/playlist.jhtml" target="_blank">Eddie Trunk's Metal Show</a>; where he proclaimed his love for metal, thrash, and King Diamond. I was already aware of his Paul Reed Smith signature model guitar; next I googled him and saw the many different awards/polls he’s won in various guitar magazines, and I read some reviews of this cd and snagged a copy. I Like it. While it’s not a thrash album, it is metal, with plenty of stunt guitar work, and my favorite parts are the songs with the noticeable early Metallica and Pantera influences. He is definitely a badass, no doubt hugely inspirational to the next generation of aspiring shredders. He also handles the lead vocals and sounds okay, no cookie monster leads vocals, thank you. I am not familiar with drummer and bassist, they are a tight rhythm section. Overall: This is a fine debut album that (I’m sure) Tremonti’s fanatics had been clamoring for.<br />
<br />
* <b>Van Halen – A Different Kind of Truth</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/10pAsLV">http://amzn.to/10pAsLV</a><br />
In my opinion, and despite the fact Michael Anthony’s background vocals are missed; this is the best VH album since Fair Warning, which I consider their “peak” recording. No, I am not a huge fan of Diver Down or Van Hagar. This cd sounds just like the VH of old and is surprisingly fresh. My only complaint is their terrible heavily compressed mix/mastering job; it seems this cd was engineered for MP3/iPods with shitty earbud speakers. The Grateful Dead had their “Wall of Sound” while Van Halen has their “Wall of Sludge.”RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-58068950184381454822012-01-07T12:06:00.000-08:002012-01-07T23:51:20.466-08:00Best cd's of 2011...<div><span>Disclaimer: Below is a list of my favorite music of 2011. This list and individual reviews are my opinions only, and yours may vary, and that is okay. Also, there are a couple things I would've listed here, but excluded them instead for the reasons noted:</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><b>*</b> <b>Bruce Piephoff - Still Looking Up At the Stars</b></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/brucepiephoff3">http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/brucepiephoff3</a></span></div><div><span>I have a production credit on this, so I can't include it in my top 20 with a clear conscience (conflict of interest). I can say though, this cd is fan-f*cking-tastic, and I listened to this disc more than anything else this past year. It's introspective music with vivid lyrical imagery that would probably be in the folk section of your record store, but crosses over into many other genres (country blues, electric blues, roots rock, free jazz/spoken word, Latin jazz); and it was produced by and features heavily my bro, Scott Sawyer. I am just as proud to be associated with this cd as I was with Scott's "Go There" cd which featured Kofi and Oteil Burbridge, and everyone who heard that one knows how great a cd it is… So, if you know me, and trust my judgment when it comes to great music, and like to and have the means to support the working artist, buy yourself a copy if you haven't already :-) </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Medeski Martin and Wood - 20</b></span></div><div><span><a href="http://medeskimartinandwood.shop.musictoday.com/Dept.aspx?cp=124_2098">http://medeskimartinandwood.shop.musictoday.com/Dept.aspx?cp=124_2098</a></span></div><div><span>Each month during 2011, MMW released new, never-released tracks, for a total of 20 tracks to celebrate their 20th year anniversary. It's roughly 105 total minutes in length; and if it would've all been released at one time as a "hard copy" cd, instead of 20 individual tracks to download, then it definitely would have made my top 20!</span></div><div><span><br /></span><hr /><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Here we go… Without further ado, my top 20 cd's of 2011, in alphabetical order:</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div><span>* <b>Gregg Allman - Low Country Blues</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Low-Country-Blues-Gregg-Allman/dp/B004AHNIGM"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Low-Country-Blues-Gregg-Allman/dp/B004AHNIGM</span></a></div><div><span>As a longtime hardcore Allman Brothers Band fanatic, this is the cd on this list I consider myself most qualified to critique. Gregg Allman has had a very long career (40 plus years), with his share of mostly ups and a few downs. Now 14 years since the last studio recorded cd, and a year since receiving a liver transplant, Gregg Allman has released this fine effort. First off, it was produced by T-Bone Burnett, who seems to have the Midas touch when it comes to making albums (10 time Grammy winner!). This cd is no exception - The musicians are Gregg on vocals, B3, and some acoustic guitar, T-Bone on guitar; along with Doyle Bramhall III, Dr. John, and T-Bone's "go to" rhythm section of bassist Dennis Crouch and drummer Jay Bellerose, and a horn section. Gregg Allman is 64 years old, his voice is weathered, and when he sings the blues you believe him. This cd is song oriented, a nice contrast to the long jammy improvisations of the Allman Brothers live concert experience. One song Gregg co-wrote with Warren Haynes; the rest are covers of tunes written by the likes of Muddy Waters, Skip James, Little Milton, BB King, Amos Milburn, Otis Rush, and Sleepy John Estes. Gregg doesn't flub any of the lyrics like he has become prone to doing (on stage) these last few years, and I only wish the Allman Brothers Band would release a studio album of this caliber in 2012. This cd has been nominated for a Grammy, best blues cd of 2011.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Tab Benoit - Medicine</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Medicine-Tab-Benoit/dp/B004QDCY3S"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Medicine-Tab-Benoit/dp/B004QDCY3S</span></a></div><div><span>Blues from the Bayou... This music is beautiful, tasteful, sometimes dirty, Cajun blues; drenched in soul. Tab's voice reminds me of Jimmie Vaughan and his brother Stevie, he is spokesman for the Voices of the Wetlands Activist group; and some of his lyrics are regarding Louisiana's rapidly shrinking wetlands, while he also sings of love, joy, loss, and heartbreak. This is Tab's best effort yet, not that his other releases haven't been top shelf; but this is more or less a Nola supergroup of a band - Tab on guitar and vocals, Anders Osborne on guitar (and he co-wrote 7 of the 11 songs), Michael Doucet on fiddle, Ivan Neville on Hammond B3, and Brady Blade on drums. This band rocks it - Anders Osborne continues (see my best of 2010 list) to play guitar like a man possessed, and is on the verge of "breaking out" and each and every one of Michael Doucet's notes is perfect! </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Black Country Communion - Black Country Communion 2</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Black-Country-Communion-2/dp/B004Z185RU"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Black-Country-Communion-2/dp/B004Z185RU</span></a></div><div><span>This is a very strong sophomore effort from the supergroup that is Joe Bonamassa on guitar, Glenn Hughes on bass and vocals/from Deep Purple Mark III, Jason Bonham/son of Bonzo on drums, and Derek Sherinian of Dream Theater on keyboards. Like their previous cd, this is more 70's style hard rock that fits firmly in the Zeppelin/Deep Purple camp. If you're looking for something new sounding, you've come to the wrong place. If you prefer the classic rock sounds of the 70's, sit back and enjoy the ride. Their style may be seasoned, but they do it with much finesse. This is great summertime crank-up-your-car-stereo music, and I suspect a Black Country Communion concert would be filled with air guitarists!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>The Black Dahlia Murder - Ritual</b> </span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ritual-Black-Dahlia-Murder/dp/B004XD04IS"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Ritual-Black-Dahlia-Murder/dp/B004XD04IS</span></a></div><div><span>This is the heaviest, rawest, most punk inclusion on this list. I have been following this Michigan band off and on for the last decade. Their sound seems to have gotten more melodic over time; but it's still very heavy death metal, with lots of cookie monster vocals, and at times it is aurally brutal. I consider this BDM's best cd yet. The production to me sounds better than their last couple albums, the tunes are a little more "finished" sounding. This is the 2nd Black Dahlia Murder cd with new guitarist Ryan Knight, and they have really stepped it up. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Endangered Blood (self titled)</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Endangered-Blood/dp/B004LE10J6"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Endangered-Blood/dp/B004LE10J6</span></a></div><div><span>This is a NYC downtown acoustic jazz supergroup of sorts; Trevor Dunn on contrabass, best known for Mr. Bungle and also his work with John Zorn and Mike Van Patton. Longtime friends and collaborators Chris Speed (tenor sax) and Jim Black (drums), who have worked extensively with such NYC heavyweights as Tim Berne, Uri Caine, Dave Douglas, and Kurt Rosenwinkle. Lastly, Oscar Noriega on alto sax and bass clarinet, who is best known for his recent work with Paul Motian, Lee Konitz and Tim Berne. All tunes were written by Chris Speed with the exception of TS Monk's Epistrophy. This music is hard to describe, it's all blowing, no chords; but despite their name, the entire cd is not wall-shaking free jazz - Although there is a substantial free jazz vibe, there are also bits of straight-ahead and contemporary jazz, and some rock. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Bill Frisell - All We Are Saying</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/All-Are-Saying-Bill-Frisell/dp/B005F9CORS"><span>http://www.amazon.com/All-Are-Saying-Bill-Frisell/dp/B005F9CORS</span></a></div><div><span>Bill Frisell is a true Beatles fan, obviously… That thought springs to mind immediately when you hear him playing this collection of John Lennon tunes. This is another of his projects where jazz meets blues meets pop meets folk meets Americana. This band has uncovered many fine jewels deep in the terra firm of these songs I've heard hundreds of times. Lots of unworldly tones, swells, and twangy guitars can be heard on these very interesting arrangements; where sometimes the melody is so subtle it's almost hidden and other times it's very pronounced. I was one of the lucky few that caught this set live with the same lineup (Bill on guitar, Greg Leisz on steel guitar, Jenny Scheinman on violin, Tony Scherr on bass, Kenny Wollesen on drums), which makes this cd even more special to me. Bill Frisell can do no wrong. Also worthy of a listen or three is Frisell's other 2011 release, Sign of Life, music for his 858 Quartet > <a href="http://amzn.to/ysApgO">http://amzn.to/ysApgO </a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Morgan Agren / Henry Kaiser / Trey Gunn - Invisible Rays</b> </span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Morgan-Agren-Henry-Kaiser/dp/B005L3HLCQ"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Morgan-Agren-Henry-Kaiser/dp/B005L3HLCQ</span></a></div><div><span>Trey Gunn on bass and Warr guitar (an instrument similar to the Chapman Stick), Henry Kaiser on guitar, and Morgan Agren on drums. Morgan is from Sweden and has been associated with Zappa family side projects since the mid 90's. Henry Kaiser is a bay area guitarist who has played with everybody everywhere (first musician to record in Antarctica), and is recognized world-wide as a leader of the second generation of free improvisers who came of age in the '70s. He's been doing soundtrack work for the last decade too (He collaborated on Warner Heezog's "Grizzly Man"), and he's also a professional video camera operator (his underwater sequences have been used in "Wild Blue Yonder"). I actually met him randomly when he was filming Bill Frisell @ Yoshi's a couple years, ago for a documentary that I haven't seen officially released yet… Anyway, his playing and use of effects at times reminds me of both Robert Fripp <i>and</i> Adrian Belew. Trey Gunn was a member of King Crimson from 1995 through 2003 and also was involved in various KC related projeKcts. This music is very intense, a later 2000ish King Crimson like frenzy with a large dose of avant-garde experimentation. The opening track is nearly 23 minutes in length. This is another cd for the musically adventurous, I Love it!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Warren Haynes Band - Man in Motion</b></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Man-Motion-Warren-Haynes/dp/B004R0MF34">http://www.amazon.com/Man-Motion-Warren-Haynes/dp/B004R0MF34</a> </span></div><div><span>What a surprise, another Allman Brother is on my list this year. Like Gregg's new one, this cd (his first studio band recording that is not Gov't Mule, in 18 years) has also been nominated for best blues cd of 2011 Grammy, which I find a bit odd, as Warren was going for more of a soul/R&B thing on this cd. While the cd is great and worthy (to me) of making this list, it's not a blues cd. However, genres aside, there is plenty of formidable guitar playing all over this cd, as expected… Also, the casual Warren Haynes fan might not have realized that he is also a great vocalist and songwriter, as he amply demonstrates on this cd. His band is top shelf as well, Ron Holloway on tenor sax in particular sounds great! So, yeah, not as heavy as a Mule cd - This is mainly soul and R&B with sprinkles of funk, blues, and gospel - but still a gift to the legion of Warren fans out there, and a great listen for all.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Eric McFadden - Bluebird On Fire</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bluebird-Fire-Eric-Mcfadden/dp/B004UHSIF8"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Bluebird-Fire-Eric-Mcfadden/dp/B004UHSIF8</span></a></div><div><span>This latest Eric McFadden cd is a bluesy cd; but stylistically all the songs are very different. This is no surprise if you're familiar with his guitar playing, as Eric is a virtuoso musician (and a great singer/lyricist) equally adept in many, if not all, music genres. The supporting cast on this cd is no joke either: James Whiton on a song, Dave Schools on 5 songs, and Norwood Fisher (Fishbone) on 3 songs; and that's just the bass players! EM is vastly underrated, he consistently releases great music, and his live shows are always off the hook (and the best deal in the bay area). On this latest cd, I hear traces of Johnny Cash, Nick Cave, John Lee Hooker, Jimi Hendrix, and a little Scotty Moore, to name a few… Bluebird On Fire is all killer, and no filler! My favorite tune is the meltdown that is <i>It Takes a Man</i>.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Medeski Scofield Martin & Wood - In Case the World Changes Its Mind [Live]</b></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/MSMW-Live-Case-World-Changes/dp/B005O64VVE">http://www.amazon.com/MSMW-Live-Case-World-Changes/dp/B005O64VVE</a> </span></div><div><span>John Medeski (keyboards), John Scofield (guitars), Billy Martin (percussion), and Chris Wood (bass). Intense, dark, crazed, electric, out, textured, discombobulated… These are adjectives that come to mind while listening to this excellent live double cd set. Most music heads I know are either: (A) fanatical about MMW, or (B) don't care for MMW… Then regarding the hardcore MMW-heads (I've interacted with on listservs and email lists), a lot of them don't like Sco with the band, they prefer just the trio; or if there must be a guitarist, Marc Ribot… Sco's musical personality seems to be too loud for some folks, they like Ribot because his voice is less prominent in the MMW plus 1 mix. Anyway, while I love seeing the Trio, I am also a huge John Scofield fan, and for me, MSMW is a match made in heaven. Sco has said in recent interviews that MMW is his favorite band, period, and this sounds to me like a band having a lot of fun on stage. But jazz purists and fans of John Scofield's traditional straight-ahead side, be warned; this isn't your grandfather's jazz, this is very jammy groove-heavy avant-garde stuff… I bet Wynton Marsalis hates it.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div><span>* <b>Megadeth - Th1rt3en</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/TH1RT3EN-Megadeth/dp/B005LRWRZ8"><span>http://www.amazon.com/TH1RT3EN-Megadeth/dp/B005LRWRZ8 </span></a></div><div><span>50 year old Dave Mustaine is one of the most intense and interesting personalities in today's musical universe, metal or any other genre. Megadeth has been making music since 1985; and despite Dave's ups and downs, and whatever personnel changes have occurred over the years, nothing has deterred Dave from executing his mission - which is to consistently deliver the tightest loudest shred-guitar-heavy bone-crunching most real metal imaginable. The nickname <i>world's state-of-the-art speed metal band</i> has been used to describe Megadeth's sound, as well as the critic penned term <i>intelligent metal</i> and this cd is no exception. If any of you are worried that Dave's recent religious conversion has dulled his perspective or his lyrics, worry not, that has not occurred. Megadeth has been, and still is, simply the best working metal band for the last couple decades. Also, I highly recommend Dave's autobiography "Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir" published in 2010.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Buddy Miller's Majestic Silver Strings (self titled)</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Majestic-Silver-Strings-Buddy-Miller/dp/B004I2EWMI"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Majestic-Silver-Strings-Buddy-Miller/dp/B004I2EWMI</span></a></div><div><span>Buddy Miller has been pretty huge in Nashville since the mid 90's. He's been on my radar for a few years now, but my first time seeing him was a very special night of this band (mostly) playing this material at Yoshi's in Oakland, in April of 2011. That was followed a few weeks later with Robert Plant's Band of Joy at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley, with Buddy Miller on guitar. I've since listened to some of Buddy's back catalog, and I have deduced that he has been more than a minor influence on Bill Frisell's technique this last decade, as Frisell's Americana excursions have become more frequent. This cd is a Nashville/Downtown (NYC) Superband Masterpiece. Buddy Miller, Bill Frisell, Marc Ribot, and Greg Leisz on strings, that same Bellerose and Crouch rhythm section that plays on the above-listed Gregg Allman cd, and different guest singers (including EmmyLou) appear on this cd. Ribot's contributions to this music are prominent, this could easily be a Marc Ribot cd instead of Buddy Miller's. It also includes a DVD with a 21 minute documentary on the making of the cd, plus one live song on video. The music is mostly old country music covers along with a couple Ribot and Frisell penned tunes. Track 6 is a brilliant rendition of Roger Miller's <i>Dang Me</i> with Marc Anthony Thompson/Chocolate Genius on lead vocals - If I had to pick my favorite song of 2011, there it is. This is not straight up country music, traditional country music fans and Buddy's wider fanbase might not get it; but fans of Ribot and Frisell and guitar in general will dig this music immensely. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div> </div><div><span>* <b>North Mississippi Allstars - Keys to the Kingdom</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Keys-Kingdom-North-Mississippi-Allstars/dp/B004GX18OO"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Keys-Kingdom-North-Mississippi-Allstars/dp/B004GX18OO</span></a></div><div><span>NMAS cd's have been hit and miss for me. I thought Shake Hands With Shorty and also Electric Blue Watermelon were both excellent cd's that will continue to get spins in my stereo for the foreseeable future, and same thing applies to this latest release; which is pretty much 2 son's eulogy for their father. It's not the furious electric guitar jams of past NMAS albums, it's more stripped down roots rock and unplugged, with guests from Jim Dickinson's generation, not Luther's and Cody's… Alvin Youngblood Hart is on board for a song, Mavis staples, Spooner Oldham, and Ry Cooder. <i>Ain't no Grave</i> (with Ry) is as heartfelt and poignant a goodbye as I have ever heard. Although death is one of the subjects of this cd's lyrical content, overall it is a celebration of life. Most of this material was written while Jim Dickinson lay dying in a Memphis hospital, and Luther's wife was pregnant with their daughter; and in the months following Jim's death they went in the studio and recorded this cd. Consequentially, it's the most personal collection of songs this band has released, and this cd ranks among the best of the NMAS.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Opeth - Heritage</b> </span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Heritage-Opeth/dp/B004G25V9S"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Heritage-Opeth/dp/B004G25V9S</span></a></div><div><span>Swedish progressive death metal band Opeth's 10th studio release has certainly generated a lot of online discussion/debate. The cookie monster growls are gone; thus they have shifted away from their signature death metal sound, to something more reminiscent of 70's progressive rock. Think 70's Yes, 70's King Crimson, Deep Purple, Pink Floyd; and Mikael Akerfeldt's non-death vocals remind me of Greg Lake. This equates to a huge bummer for a lot of entitled metal fans, who feel the band owes them something; whereas the other camp of fans mostly dig the music and the experimental nature of this cd. It was mixed by Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree, who also produced the 2003 Opeth cd, Damnation... Not coincidentally, Damnation was also too mellow for a lot of Opeth's fanbase; I thought it was great. Anyway, Heritage still has plenty of Opeth's trademark lightening fast intricate musical passages, and they demonstrate their masterful use of dynamics/space and silence with plenty of contrasting electric and acoustic instrumentation. This is the best Opeth cd yet, and I look forward to hearing what they do next. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Primus - Green Naugahyde</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Green-Naugahyde-Primus/dp/B005633FRQ"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Green-Naugahyde-Primus/dp/B005633FRQ</span></a></div><div><span>Primus is back! Their 1st studio cd in 12 years sounds like what I expected it to sound like, a whole lot of Les Claypool wackiness :-) Plenty of indulgent very badass bass, some songs about fishing, very tight musical interludes that reek of Frank Zappa and 80's King Crimson, and the odd lyrics and quirky vocal delivery of Les Claypool; it's all there! I'm not a hard core Primus fan, my favorite cd's by the band are from early on in their career - Suck on This, and Sea's of Cheese - Green Naugahyde is just as good if not better . </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Red Hot Chili Peppers - I'm With You</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/You-Red-Hot-Chili-Peppers/dp/B0054N73EY"><span>http://www.amazon.com/You-Red-Hot-Chili-Peppers/dp/B0054N73EY</span></a></div><div><span>I discovered the RHCP via Mother's Milk, I then went back and discovered their early catalog, the 3 cd's featuring founding guitarist Hillel Slovak (great music!) and by the time Blood Sugar Sex Magik came out, I was fanatical. For me, Blood Sugar was the RHCP's musical peak. Afterward, guitarist John Frusciante left the band and was replaced by Dave Navarro for the luke-warm One Hot Minute cd. Frusciante was back for the next one, Californication, and the RHCP fell off my radar after that. By the Way just didn't press my buttons. It sounded like rehashed versions of material they had previously recorded, and was a little too mainstream for my tastes; and what little I heard of Stadium Arcadium sounded like more of the same. When a band's albums begin to bore me, even a band I love, they generally fall off my radar then… Anyway, now in 2011, I'm happy to report the Peppers are sounding fresh and energized, following an extended hiatus; during which Flea returned to school (University of Southern California) to study music theory, composition, and jazz trumpet. John Frusciante is gone, again, and Josh Klinghoffer is the latest Chili Pepper guitarist. For what it's worth, Josh is a friend and collaborator of Frusciante's, having appeared on 4 of his cd's between 2004 and 2009. His style is less frenetic than Frusciante's, not quite as edgy. That has a lot of RHCP fan crying foul. I personally feel it's their best work since Blood Sugar Sex Magik. Less flashy guitar has them in a more experimental funk post-punk direction that is reminiscent of their early days. The hiatus and college experience seem to have inspired Flea; his bass playing is sounding better than ever, and his musical voice is strong and pronounced enough in the vibe to compensate for Josh's understated guitar work. The more I listen to this cd the more I like it. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Tedeschi Trucks Band - Revelator</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Revelator-Tedeschi-Trucks-Band/dp/B004RSCWZ2"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Revelator-Tedeschi-Trucks-Band/dp/B004RSCWZ2</span></a></div><div><span>'Are there any other Allman Bros related cd's nominated for a best blues cd of 2011 Grammy this year?' Actually, yes, there is! There are 2 Allman Brothers on the Tedeschi Trucks Band's Revelator cd, Derek Trucks on guitar and Oteil Burbridge on bass, and indeed, it has been nominated for a Grammy, best blues cd of 2011... Add Kofi Burbridge on keys and flute, and already you have a slam dunk! No, this is not a Stax Records release, although it could easily be mistaken for one. This was recorded in Derek and Susan's home studio in Jacksonville, FL with an 11 piece band. Less jazz/out than the Derek Trucks Band, and less straight blues ala Susan Tedeschi Band, means a nice common ground that is mostly roots rock, retro soul and R&B, and copious amounts of Burbridge funk. Same as Derek's previous DTB cd's, I like the instrumental songs best (Shrimp and Grits, and the final hidden track). Hardcore Derek Trucks Band fans: I do feel your pain. I miss their live shows too. However, this cd does stand up to Derek's recent releases, plenty of killer guitar and ethereal tones all over it, plenty of Kofi and Oteil, and this is definitely not some sort of Yoko Ono like project… It is a real working touring band, and this is the next chapter in this current phase of Derek Truck's continued evolution towards guitar god status, for which he is destined. Also, for the record, in a live setting, Tedeschi Trucks Band is burning up the stage!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Trombone Shorty - For True</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/True-Trombone-Shorty/dp/B005CAAVVQ"><span>http://www.amazon.com/True-Trombone-Shorty/dp/B005CAAVVQ</span></a></div><div><span>I first stumbled upon Troy 'Trombone Shorty' Andrews when his band played the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in Golden Gate Park in 2010. I don't have HBO and don't follow Treme, otherwise these fat funkified grooves surely would have been on my radar. Anyway, I was pretty blown away by their HSBF performance, and went on to buy the cd Backatown, and that cd wound up making my best of 2010 list. This cd is the same funky Nola sound, with his same band (Orleans Avenue), along with some special guest musicians: Jeff Beck, Warren Haynes, Kid Rock, Lenny Kravitz (he was in Lenny's touring band in '05), Stanton Moore, and Rebirth Brass Band. This is happy music, and if it doesn't make you tap your foot or shake your ass, then you must not have a pulse!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Tom Waits - Bad As Me</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bad-As-Me-Tom-Waits/dp/B005IGVX0M"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Bad-As-Me-Tom-Waits/dp/B005IGVX0M</span></a></div><div><span>Tom Waits is such a prolific artist, his album/cd output is vast, I'm pretty sure I haven't heard all of it. I do know that my favorite Tom Waits cd's are Nighthawks at the Diner, Mule Variations, and Rain Dogs… Is there any better whiskey drinking music than Rain Dogs? This is Tom's first cd new of new material in 7 years. The roll call of musicians backing him on this cd is impressive, it includes: Marc Ribot, Keith Richards, David Hidalgo, and Will Bernard on guitars - Flea, James Whiton, and Les Claypool on bass - Tom's son Casey Waits on drums, and Charlie Musselwhite on harmonica. Even with all these wonderful musicians on this cd, Tom's voice and storytelling/lyrical imagery is still without a doubt the star of the show. The music is equal parts blues and ballads. The subject matter/lyrical content is too broad and simple yet sophisticated, for me to begin to expound on… Let me just say, listening to this cd is like reading a newspaper with everything written by your favorite classic American literature authors; and its message/statements/observations are very relevant to what is going on today, socially and politically. This is my favorite cd of the year.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Steven Wilson - Grace for Drowning</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Grace-Drowning-Steven-Wilson/dp/B0058WFO06"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Grace-Drowning-Steven-Wilson/dp/B0058WFO06</span></a></div><div><span>Steven Wilson is the busiest guitarist on my radar, even busier than Warren Haynes. Here is a list of most of the stuff he currently is involved in:</span></div><div><span>1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Porcupine Tree's front man and creative force.</span></div><div><span>2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>His side project, Blackfield (they released a cd in 2011).</span></div><div><span>3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>His side project No-Man.</span></div><div><span>4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>His side project Bass Communion</span></div><div><span>5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>He mixed Opeth's 2011 cd, Heritage.</span></div><div><span>6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>He is currently doing the 5.1 surround sound remixing of King Crimson and Jethro Tull's back-catalogs of music.</span></div><div><span>…And on top of all that, he still found time to release what I consider to be a progressive rock masterpiece. This was initially meant to be 2 separate cd's, but instead it was released as a double cd set. There are special guests galore: Tony Levin, Trey Gunn, Pat Mastelotto, Steve Hackett, and Jordan Rudess, to name a few. It's somewhere in between Porcupine Tree's heavy side and Bass Communion, which is more ambient. It reeks of King Crimson and Dream Theater (see the featured guests), early Rush, and even Pink Floyd to some degree. I know, same description could be applied towards Porcupine Tree, although I tend to think PT has gone less experimental in the last 10 years or so; less of the Floydian sound that the Radioactive Toy and Voyage 34 era's had going on. Anyway, back to this Grace For Drowning cd - It is possibly my favorite Steven Wilson cd yet, definitely my favorite SW cd since PT's Deadwing (2005).</span></div></div><div><span><br /></span><hr /><span><br /></span></div><div><div><span>Honorable Mention</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>The Cars - Move Like This</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Move-Like-This-Cars/dp/B004NTMNB8"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Move-Like-This-Cars/dp/B004NTMNB8</span></a></div><div><span>The Cars 1st studio album in 24 years! The original bass player/lead singer Benjamin Orr died in 2000, from pancreatic cancer. The remaining 4 original members are all on this cd (bass now provided by keyboardist), Ric Ocasek now on lead vocals. Amazingly, it picks up right where they left off, with the same short hook-laden songs with their now signature (to me) synthesizer heavy sound… This music instantly transports me back to the early 80's when I was a young teenager and the Cars were all over the radio and MTV. I don't listen to commercial radio, so I don't know whether or not this is getting any airplay, but it wouldn't surprise me if this cd has some radio hits.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Jane's Addiction - the Great Escape Artist</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Great-Escape-Artist-Janes-Addiction/dp/B004VF68AQ"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Great-Escape-Artist-Janes-Addiction/dp/B004VF68AQ</span></a></div><div><span>JA's first cd since 2003's Strays got a lot of mixed reviews from press and fans. I considered Strays pretty good, with more elements of metal than their run of albums from 1987-1990. On this new one, the Great Escape Artist, they've gone back to a more art-rock sound; but it's definitely minimalist compared to any other JA recording… While listening to Nothing Shocking for the first time was akin to unexpectedly being kicked in the teeth, the Great Escape Artist listening experience is more subdued. I guess the band has mellowed/matured in the last 25 years. It makes sense to me, I was a little wilder at 22 years of age, and lacking wisdom, compared to me at 45… I still hear the Zep influence, but I also hear Radiohead, and maybe some early U2. After the initial listen, I've been going back to this cd often. Less Dave Navarro flash, but he still gets his moments to shine; same thing applies to Stephen Perkins tribal drumming, and Perry Farrell still has something to say.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Oz Noy - Twisted Blues, Vol. 1</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=25295"><span>http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=25295</span></a></div><div><span>Oz is an Israeli guitarist who relocated to NYC in '96, and since then has been a fixture in the scene there, playing regularly at venues like the 55 Bar and the Bitter End. Oz is a musician's musician; like Mike Stern, Allan Holdsworth, etc, the majority of Oz Noy fans are guitar geeks. I hear a lot of John Scofield influence in his playing, as well as Jeff Beck and Stevie Ray Vaughan. There are a lot of great musicians playing on this cd; including Vinnie Colaiuta, Anton Fig, Will Lee, John Medeski, Reese Wynans, and Eric Johnson to name a few. I would classify this music as blues fusion.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Planet of the Abts</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.hittinthenote.com/cart/p-1325-planet-of-the-abtsbrcd-and-download.aspx"><span>http://www.hittinthenote.com/cart/p-1325-planet-of-the-abtsbrcd-and-download.aspx</span></a></div><div><span>Planet of the Abts is a Gov't Mule side-project, born this year when Mule was on hiatus while the Warren Haynes Band toured. The band is Mule's rhythm section (Matt Abts/drums and Jorgen Carlsson/bass), along with Jorgen's friend T-Bone Andersson on guitars and keyboards; and Mule's Danny Louis blows some horns on the opening track. I bought this cd at the live show, and it greatly exceeded my expectations. I hear a strong Gov't Mule influence, obviously, and Led Zeppelin too; but also a strong progressive rock flavor that I didn't expect, like a hybrid of Wish You Were Here era Pink Floyd and Ozric Tentacles. This cd was a nice surprise, I highly recommend it.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>Todd Rundgren - Johnson</b></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Todd-Rundgrens-Johnson-Rundgren/dp/B004RIACAE"><span>http://www.amazon.com/Todd-Rundgrens-Johnson-Rundgren/dp/B004RIACAE</span></a></div><div><span>Runt's 21st album! This is a collection of Robert Johnson tunes. There is nothing new here, just TR's stripped-down interpretations of these classic RJ songs, with very little polishing. If I didn't know it was all just TR (guitar and drums) and Kasim Sulton on bass, I would've guessed this was recorded live in the studio. The blues purists probably don't appreciate this cd as much as the guitar heads - Todd definitely tips his hat not only to Robert Johnson, but also to RJ's British blues rock disciples like Eric Clapton and John Mayall; speaking of which, at 63 years old, Todd Rundgren still has a set of pipes on him, his voice sounds great, especially singing these old blues songs. Also, I didn't recall him being such a proficient guitar player, this is a nice reminder.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>* <b>George Thorogood and the Destroyers - 2120 South Michigan Ave.</b> </span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/2120-South-Michigan-George-Thorogood/dp/B0051YKU6Y"><span>http://www.amazon.com/2120-South-Michigan-George-Thorogood/dp/B0051YKU6Y</span></a></div><div><span>First off, never in a million years did I think that George Thorogood would appear on this list. He became irrelevant to me not long after his I Drink Alone video (1985). I checked out this cd after reading a positive review of it somewhere on the web. 2120 South Michigan Ave was home to Chess Records, and it was the Stones song with that same title, that turned a young George Thorogood onto the magic that is Chicago Blues. This collection is mostly a bunch of covers from the classic Chess blues catalog, along with 2 originals; and Buddy Guy sitting in on 1 tune, while we're graced with Charlie Musselwhite's harmonica on 2 more. The cd was produced by Buddy Guy's drummer, Tom Hambidge, and the band's love and respect of the Chess label's history rings through loud and clear. I have no idea what his recorded output has been for the last couple decades; and I must say I am amazed at how natural he sounds, singing these songs you've heard countless versions of, countless times before. This is the cd that George Thorogood was born to record.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div></div><div><br /></div></span></div>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-23551591998119297172010-12-26T10:38:00.000-08:002014-04-26T12:56:58.601-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">20 Best cd's of 2010 </span></span><span style="font-family: arial;">(in alphabetical order) </span><span style="font-size: 180%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jeff Beck</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Emotion & Commotion</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/e0SUBZ"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/e0SUBZ</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">JB delivers the goods on his first studio recording in 7 years. He's still a badass, he still says more with one note than all the Yngwie wannabe's say with fifty 64th notes. This cd is short (40 minutes) but sweet, and it left me wanting more. You know you're in for a good ride when it opens with a cover of Jeff Buckley's arrangement of "Corpus Christy Carol." The personnel vary from track to track, but musicians accompanying Jeff include Tal WIlkenfeld, Joss Stone, Pino Palladino, Vinnie Colaiuta, Imelda May, and others, plus a 64 piece orchestra. I am not hip to Joss Stone, aside from the fact she is mainstream, but I don't blame Jeff if he's trying to cash in… She does nail it on "I Put a Spell On You." Then again, he's been recording and touring with women since at least as far back as his "Who Else!" cd released back in 1999 (Jennifer Batten), and either Tal or Imelda have been part of his touring band since 2007. So, yeah, if you're a fan of Jeff Beck or electric guitar in general, then you owe it to yourself to give this cd a spin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Country Communion</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Self Titled</span>)</span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/fst1o5"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/fst1o5</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">I hate the term "supergroup" but that is what this album's been described as. Joe Bonamassa on guitar/the up and coming "guitar god," Glenn Hughes on bass and vocals/from Deep Purple Mark III, Jason Bonham/son of Bonzo on drums, and Derek Sherinian on keyboards/a heavyweight in the metal and progressive rock worlds. This is music that begs to be played loud. You can definitely hear the Zeppelin and Deep Purple roots, actually this album sounds like it could have been released in the 70's, stylistically that is... You won't find any nu-metal or rap-rock or other subgenres here, just good old (mainly blues based) rock and roll that would fit right in on a playlist from any classic rock radio station. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lois Deloatch</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Roots: Jazz Blues Spirituals</span></span><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/gLhUG7"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://bit.ly/gLhUG7</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Lois on vocals, Scott Sawyer on guitar, Gabe Evens on piano, John Brown on bass, and Beverly Botsford on percussion. This is NC jazz, from the Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill). Fans of vocal jazz and blues, ala Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughn, will find a lot to like here. The band sounds excellent and all get ample opportunity to stretch it out at times. Top notch production too, this cd sounds excellent. There are 4 original tunes, the other 8 a mix of covers and traditional songs. The entire cd swings but my favorite tracks are Wade in the Water, Queen KoKo Blue, Pennies From Heaven, When The Saints Come Marching In, Steal Away, and Someday Soon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bill Frisell</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beautiful Dreamers</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/gfFT08"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/gfFT08</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Bill on guitar, Eyvind Kang on viola, Rudy Royston on drums, and produced by the great Lee Townsend. Not the standard instrumentation as most trio's, but not at all a surprise from the shy bespectacled One… It works, and a lot of the tunes definitely groove, and there is plenty of odd timing, use of dynamics and space between the notes, along with more of the out weirdness that Bill Frisell is known for. This cd is mainly original tunes, but there are some interesting covers too, including Nobody's Fault but Mine, Keep On the Sunny Side, and Goin' Out of My Head (I'll admit I caught myself off guard the 1st time I noticed myself singing the words to this Frank Sinatra classic, while driving my truck). Bill Frisell isn't for everybody, but if you're a fan, this is pretty much a must hear cd. Lastly, kudos to Bill for his shout out to the late great Vic Chestnutt, RIP.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">JJ Grey & Mofro</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Georgia Warhorse</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/eJlOCN"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/eJlOCN</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">JJ is a singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist from Jacksonville, FL. I have been following him since I caught his late night set at High Sierra Music Fest a few years ago. This is his 3rd release on Alligator Records, and in my opinion he has hugely stepped up his game. This is swampy greasy southern music, and he has a great band backing him. He is joined by his neighbor Derek Trucks on "Lullaby," and the great Toots Hibbert joins him on "The Sweetest Thing." I will go so far as to proclaim this JJ Grey's breakout cd. Good stuff!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Buddy Guy</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Living Proof</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/dYE6Iq"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/dYE6Iq</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Buddy Guy is 74 years old, just 4 years younger than my Dad! This autobiographical cd is his best since his coming out (to the masses) party, "Damn Right I Got the Blues" - Not that he has anything to prove, but he hasn't lost a thing, he can still solo with complete reckless but perfect fury and abandonment. His voice sounds great too. Check out the opening track, "74 Years Young," damn! He comes out of the gate strong and doesn't let up for the next 54 minutes... Like all his albums these last few years it seems, there are guests; on this one BB King plays on a track, as does Carlos Santana track. As far as I am concerned, Buddy Guy is today's undisputed unified "heavyweight champion" of the blues, whether he wants it or not (I am sure he'd disagree and point to BB). He's earned it, he's a master of his craft; and anything he does usually sounds light years better than anything done by Cats 20, 30, 40, and 50 years younger.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Charlie Hunter</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gentlemen, I Neglected To Inform You You Will Not Be Getting Paid</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/hlsyjh"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/hlsyjh</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Consider me biased, I have been a Charlie Hunter fan for 17 years and his cd's are always among my favorites of the year, every year. Same thing applies to this release (a mono recording!); Charlie on 7 string guitar (simultaneous guitar and bass lines), Eric Kalb on drums, Alan Ferber and Curtis Fowlkes on trombone, Eric Biondo on trumpet. In my opinion Charlie continues to "hone" his voice, and evolve and cross over into different genres; and this cd is as heavily influenced by blues, as it is jazz. Like his other cd's, the band is top shelf, great compositions and great production. Also very worthy of mention is his just released extremely excellent solo cd, "<span style="font-style: italic;">Public Domain</span>" which as of now is only available at live performances and from his website (<a href="http://bit.ly/btGVHd">http://bit.ly/btGVHd</a>).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Los Lobos</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tin Can Trust</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/918JCf"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/918JCf</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Los Lobos: The most underrated American band ever. This is their first studio album of original music in 4 years. Nothing revelatory compared to 2006's "The Town and the City" cd, which I also thought was killer, but I do rank this up there with their best: Kiko, Colossal head, This Time… They have perfected their groove, which happens after making music together for 35 plus years… They continue with their signature sound and production here. Wolves fans won't be disappointed with this latest effort. 11 tunes in all, 2 of which are in Spanish, and a cool rendition of the Robert Hunter penned Grateful Dead's "West LA Fadeaway," plus a new Robert Hunter/Cesar Rosas composition. Viva Los Lobos!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pat Metheny</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Orchestrion</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/ieXyRS"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/ieXyRS</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">I suspect this is Pat's most controversial work since his noise album "Zero Tolerance for Silence." To me, it's definitely the most interesting inclusion on my list this year… This is a solo album, but do not be deceived… In this particular context, solo equates to Pat Metheny on guitar, and via MIDI triggers and a series of pneumatic assemblies and solenoid switches; Pat Metheny on piano, orchestra bells, marimba, vibraphone, bass, guitarbots (?), percussion, cymbals, drums, and other custom-fabricated acoustic instruments… His inspiration for this was memories of player piano (automatic, self-playing) from his youth. There is plenty of info on the web on all the prep work, the process, and the inventors Pat worked with to record this album and follow it with a tour. While the description could lead one to believe this cd sounds sterile and is lacking soul, this is not the case at all. You can hear Pat's voice, it has an organic sound/human element, it does groove at times, and there's plenty of great guitar. I would say the opening "center piece" 15 minute long title-track "Orchestrion" is the most ambitious tune on the album, as far as the compositional complexity and number of instruments being played simultaneously. Techo-Geeks and gearheads especially should dig this cd.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stanton Moore</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Groove Alchemy</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/gjDn9B"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/gjDn9B</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Galactic's Stanton Moore on drums, Will Bernard on guitar, and Robert Walter on B3 and piano; all heavyweights. This cd owns anything Galactic has released in recent memory. Yeah it's a drummer's project, but this is a band cd all the way. The music is funky, and although Stanton's from New Orleans, this is not strictly a Nola affair. I will say this trio plays their collective ass off on this cd; and I hope they collaborate more in the future, in the studio (they did play a run of live shows, the night in San Fran was great - a double bill with Anders Osborne).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Willie Nelson</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Country Music</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/ieQwqL"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/ieQwqL</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">First off, this is Willie's 81st studio cd in 49 years! That is simply a mind-boggling stat, period. To be doing it for half a decade, and still be as relevant (artistically) as he is, well that just doesn't happen often. This cd was produced by T-Bone Burnett, and features plenty of Nashville heavyweights; including Buddy Miller, Stuart Duncan, and Ronnie McCoury, to name a few… This is great country music, easily the best I have heard since Willie's "Asleep at the Wheel" cd from last year; but take that comment with a grain of salt, because I am not a huge country fan and am pretty selective in that genre of music. Anyway, 15 tunes, some Willie Nelson originals, some covers (Ernest Tubb, Merle Travis, Doc Watson, George Jones and Ray Price, and others), and some old school traditional tunes; including a sweet "Nobody's Fault but Mine" to end the cd with.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Anders Osborne</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">American Patchwork</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/hdvzMs"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/hdvzMs</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Anders is new to me, I am still discovering him… On one hand he is a gifted guitarist, a musician's musician, capable of blistering frenzied slide runs; and on the other hand he's a singer/songwriter from New Orleans whose other gig is professional songwriter in Nashville since the mid 90's (country star Tim McGraw had a #1 hit with one of his songs, and he co-wrote 2 songs with Keb Mo on Keb's Grammy winning "Slow Down" cd in 1999) . This is his debut release on Alligator Records; and joining him is Robert Walter on various keyboards/keyboard bass, Pepper Keenan on guitars and vocals, and Stanton Moore on drums. This cd has a little bit of everything: Blues (the opening track, "On the Road to Charlie Parker" is burning), rock, funky Nola grooves, even some reggae/calypso; with great, sometimes dark, and introspective lyrics. This is Anders' homage to New Orleans. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Robert Plant</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Band of Joy</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/gmQpfx"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/gmQpfx</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">At 17 years old, I was a bona fide Led Zeppelin fanatic. If I wasn't driving all over the state of TN to record conventions, in order to buy bootleg concert albums; I was trading cassette copies with people all over the world, via classified advertisements in Goldmine magazine. My daily attire for several years was completed with a brown light-weather army jacket, with a large Swansong winged dude airbrushed on the back. I have seen both Page and Plant solo and together (no live Zep for me though) a number of times, starting in 1983 to most recently 2005. At one time I considered Robert Plant pompous and arrogant for not wanting to go on tour with a new Led Zeppelin. Now I completely understand his logic. Bonzo is dead and buried for 31 years, and Mr. Plant continues to grow as an artist. His music is still evolving and I can understand why he would consider a Zep tour a step backwards. Incidentally, "Band of Joy" was a band he was in prior to Led Zeppelin, along with John Bonham. While Robert is accompanied by all Nashville Heavyweights, like the Allison Krauss collaborated "Raisin' Sand" cd, "Band of Joy" is more rock and roll… I still hear roots and Americana, but it's less folkie. Produced by Buddy Miller, Robert on lead vocals, Buddy on guitar, Patty griffin - vocals, Byron House on bass, Darrel Scott on various stringed instruments, and Marco Giovino on drums. By the way, and in case you didn't know it, Buddy Miller is badass. Only 1 Plant penned tune here (co-written with Buddy Miller), some of the covers are traditional, some are more well known than others; and the cd opens with "Angel Dance" by Los Lobos. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">7 Walkers</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Self Titled</span>)</span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/i4Sllm"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/i4Sllm</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Let me start by saying I am pretty heavily into the Grateful Dead, and GD drummer Bill Kreutzmann is on this; so I am biased. However, this cd was produced by singer/songwriter/guitarist Papa Mali, a New Orleans area native now based in Austin, and he is a heavyweight himself. The full lineup is Papa Mali (guitar and vocals), Matt Hubbard (keyboards, harmonica, trombone), funky George Porter Jr. (bass, 1 track), and Reed Mathis (bass, the rest of the tracks), and Bill Kreutzmann (drums). Willie Nelson also sings and plays guitar on "King Cotton Blues." All words were co-written by Papa Mali and Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter. In my humble opinion, this is by far the best album featuring any Grateful Dead member since Jerry died. However, this music veers much more in the direction of New Orleans music then it does the Grateful Dead; although I bet fans of both will like this. Papa Mali's 2007 release "Do Your Thing" was one of my favorites that year, and I was wondering if he would be able to top it with his next release… Well, this is the closest thing to his next release and I believe he has. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Soulive</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rubber Soulive</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/haULd2"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/haULd2</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Soulive cd's have been hit or miss for me. I prefer their straight guitar/organ/drums instrumental side, versus horn sections and guest vocalists and MC's…. This one is straight trio, doing all Beatles tunes; and yes, it's a hit. If you've been "on the fence" regarding Soulive these last few years, like me, you should give this one a listen; especially if you're a Beatles fan. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Triple Fret</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Songs in Borrowed Time</span></span><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/fmla6v"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://bit.ly/fmla6v</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">More NC music here. Triple Fret is Mike Babyak's Band. I am pretty sure He wrote 11 of the 12 tunes (at least the lyrics), although the whole (very tight) band is credited on the cd, speaking of which: Mike Babyak on guitar, lap steel, and vocals - Mike Rosado on drums - E. Scott Warren on bass. Also, guest appearances by Jim Kost on keyboards, John Metcalfe on miscellaneous percussion, and several background vocalists. This cd straddles a lot of different genres, there's a bit of everything here... I hear blues, roots and Americana, some reggae, straight rock and roll, jamband like vehicles, even a little Afro-Caribbean. If you are a fan of lap steel then this cd should be moved immediately to the top of your queue, as there is plenty of it all over this excellent recording. Are you a Steve Kimock fan? David Lindley? If so, you will very much dig this music. Lyrically, the cd covers a lot of different subjects, some serious, nothing too heavy, some just fun. Vocally, I do hear North Carolina, Mike's voice is sometimes raspy, and at times I am reminded of John Bell and maybe Lowell George. This cd is a great listen and highly recommended. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Trombone Shorty</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">BACKATOWN</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/gzZACz"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/gzZACz</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">I got turned onto Trombone Shorty when he played a set @ Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival back in July. As good as their live show is, this excellently produced studio effort matches it, musically and "energy wise" too; killer Nola funk and soul/R&B, this is music designed to make you shake that ass! All but 1 tune are originals, and the cover was written by Allen Toussaint. Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews has a great band backing him (and some heavyweight guests sitting in); whether they're laying down a thick groove, or going off on an instrumental jam, this band brings it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Derek Trucks Band</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Roadsongs</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/hpLDgC"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/hpLDgC</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">If you know me, any dTb inclusion on my list is no surprise; especially a live recording, as I have been preaching about this particular lineup of the dTb for several years now. In my opinion this is/was consistently the tightest touring rock band out there - Derek Trucks on guitar, Todd Smallie on bass, Yonrico Scott on drums, Kofi Burbridge on keyboards/flute, Mike Mattison on vocals, and Count M'butu on percussion; and on this particular night in Chicago they were augmented by a 3 piece horn section. Although dTb is a rock band and this is a rock album, stylistically the dTb crosses over many genres; and my favorite moments take place during the jazz tunes. This cd is worth picking up alone for the killer version of "Afro Blue..." But less adventurous ears not so much into the out stuff will find plenty to like here too. In closing, any live dTb is top shelf… Speaking of which, anybody heard anything about this band ending their hiatus and going back on the road?!?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Doug Wamble</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Self Titled</span>)</span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/eAKPmQ"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/eAKPmQ</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">I am not sure if this recording falls under rock, jazz, or pop; but at the end of the day Doug Wamble is another relatively unknown and very badass guitarist from TN, now living in NY. This cd is yet another Lee Townsend produced masterpiece, and I heard about it via a plug from Charlie Hunter (who plays on one track)… Although he's better known for his acoustic and slide playing, there is some fine electric guitar all over this album. Doug also sings, and although there are plenty of great moments of lead guitar and improv, this is a song based cd. Definitely worth seeking out, as is his '05 release "Bluestate" on Branford Marsalis' record label (<a href="http://amzn.to/etGTqJ">http://amzn.to/etGTqJ</a>).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Yakuza</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Of Seismic Consequence</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/el9KyG"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/el9KyG</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">Heavy music from Chicago… I found this cd at Reckless Records, which is a very cool store on the north side, Belmont and Broadway (3126 N. Broadway). Their "thing" is, in addition to the bins of cd's to browse through, their walls are literally covered with cd's in completely random order of varying genres, that have little index cards taped to them noting descriptions/recommendations from staff. I have discovered some great music from that wall, including this cd; and that is an experience that in no way can be reproduced when you buy all your music online… Anyway, back to this cd: It's pretty interesting stuff. This is their 5th album - I haven't heard the earlier ones. There are too many metal subgenres for me to keep up with, and my limited research found this album being classified under several different ones: avant garde progressive metal, post-apocalyptic hardcore, grindcore; with elements of jazz and world music. I read that the death metal cookie-monster vocals were more prevalent on their earlier albums, but Singer Bruce Lamont has eased up to focus on his secret weapon: The saxophone! Some of the more mellow tunes with heavily reverberated guitars remind me of Opeth, and the dominant berserk sax reminds me of 70's era King Crimson (a good thing); but overall this band sounds very unique, and at least on this particular cd, they have their own thing happening for sure.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">Honorable Mentions</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hill Country Revue</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Zebra Ranch</span> </span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/h43ZsY"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/h43ZsY</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">This is a North Mississippi Allstar's side project; including Cody Dickinson on guitar and vocals along with his drums and washboard/percussion, Luther Dickinson on guitar, and bunch of other Cats including Roosevelt Collier on pedal steel. I hear a strong southern rock influence, swampy Mississippi music, lots of slide guitar, a bit of funk; and parts of this remind me of Frank Marino, and Pat Travers (pre-Shrapnel records). They include a couple covers: Going Down, and Wild Horses. Incidentally, their father Jim Dickinson played on the original Wild Horses. The only reason this cd didn't make my top 20 is a couple of the more "radio friendly" tunes lyrically/vocally remind me a little bit too much of 38 Special, but that could just be me… Still, at the end of the day, I love this cd.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Smokin' Joe Kubek and Bnois King</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Have Blues Will Travel</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/dMGW2B"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/dMGW2B</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">These Cats have been recording cd's together for 20 years and are (IMO) unheralded royalty in the blues community. This is their 2nd Alligator Records release. There is plenty of tasty slide and lead guitar all over this latest effort. Nothing groundbreaking here - Just more Texas blues, but they are masters of their craft… The opening title track is reminiscent of early ZZ Top. Some of the lyrics on this cd are a little too "tongue in cheek" for me, but the strong guitarwork makes up for it… To summarize, Smokin' Joe and Bnois both play the shit out of the blues; and Texas blues aficionado's and fans of guitar in the vein of Hendrix, Freddie King (whom Joe backed up on rhythm guitar), Stevie Ray, Chris Duarte, etc will dig this cd. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Railroad Earth</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Self Titled</span>)</span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/hF8dKH"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/hF8dKH</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">RR is one of the rare jamgrass bands that don't bore me senseless after 30 minutes (SCI?). In fact, I have been following these Cats for about 5 years now and own all their cd's. Although their product is usually and rightly in the bluegrass section, like their last release "Amen Corner" this cd is IMO more roots/Americana and less bluegrass compared to their earlier recordings. The band is still very tight, and there is plenty of great storytelling and jamming guitar, violin, and mandolin to treat your ears to. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Widespread Panic</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dirty Side Down</span></span><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/dNcm0H"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://amzn.to/dNcm0H</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">This cd didn't initially grab me; I got sucked in after listening to it quite a few times and then catching their 3 night run in Oakland back in October. The production is great, Jimmy Herring is continuing to gel with the band and sounding less like a hired gun… But as good as this cd is, it doesn't match what I still consider to be the best Panic cd's: Space Wrangler, Mom's Kitchen, Everyday, Ain't Life Grand, and 'Til the Medicine Takes - That is why it didn't make my top 20. That being said, most old school Panic fans AND Panic newbies should dig this music.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">Vinnie Zummo</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Swinging Guitar Sounds Of Young America: Volume 2</span></span><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/ff5m0p"><span style="font-family: arial;">http://bit.ly/ff5m0p</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;">I discovered Vinnie around 2007, via Myspace! He's based in NYC and best known as Joe Jackson's guitar player. He is yet another badass NYC musician, one of the more unknown guitarists on my radar, deserving of wider recognition, and also a very adept drummer (he plays accordion and harmonica too). There are guests a plenty on this cd too. Too many to list all of them, but here a few of them: Shawn Pelton, Mark Egan, Mike Mainieri, and John Sebastian (Lovin' Spoonful)… I am still absorbing this recently released cd, it's a lot of different styles of music to take in. This cd is meant to be a tribute to his musical heroes, and it's fun to pick out who inspired which tunes. I am hearing some Jeff Beck, BB King, Cream, Jimi, some Beatles (nobody does the George Harrison slide sound better), Patsy Cline, John Abercrombie, and some Elvin Jones to start with... I also recommend his 2006 release SGSOYA Volume 1 (<a href="http://bit.ly/hCjTUw">http://bit.ly/hCjTUw</a>).</span><br />
<br />
<br />
If I had to pick a favorite cd of 2010, I would say it's a tie between Anders Osborne, and Trombone Shorty; with the 7 Walkers not far behind.<br />
Other realizations I made, or was reminded of, while composing this blog (aside from the fact I spend too much money on music):<br />
* I Like Rounder Records (Willie, and Robert Plant)<br />
* I Like Alligator Records (Mofro, Anders, and Smokin' Joe)<br />
* 2010 was the year of Nobody's Fault but Mine (recorded by Frisell, Willie, and Vegas crooner Tom Jones).<br />
* I still consider Lee Townsend a superstar producer.<br />
* I should consider relocating to Nola, or at least try to make it to Jazzfest this year!RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-2053117126515112412010-07-07T15:13:00.000-07:002010-07-07T17:29:04.136-07:00Jazz Record Mart, in Chicago, is f*#%ing awesome!<span style="font-family:verdana;">Dear </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Jazz Record Mart</span><span style="font-family:verdana;">, in Chicago, on 27 E. Illinois Steet.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Please forgive me for not remembering you these last few years; when discussions of best record stores came up, and I always endorsed the usual west coast suspects such as </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >Amoeba </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">and </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >Everyday Music</span><span style="font-family:verdana;">... Now I love those 2 stores, and </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >Rasputin</span><span style="font-family:verdana;">, </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >Silver Platters</span><span style="font-family:verdana;">, </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >Easy Street</span><span style="font-family:verdana;">, and </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >Reckless Records</span><span style="font-family:verdana;"> are all great stores too; but I bet the farm there isn't a record/cd store on the planet (including Amoeba) with the selection of jazz and blues music (especially blues), available on both cd and vinyl, that Jazz Record Mart keeps in stock!<br /><br />I was in your fine establishment on Friday July 2nd (1st time in a decade), and had to pull myself away within 45 minutes, otherwise I would be missing my rent and car payment this month. Not only is JRM's selection of music mind boggling, their staff is also very knowledgeable and helpful. No wonder this store still does business and has been run by the same owner for the last 40 years; while the trend of record/cd stores closing continues at a high rate in Chicago and elsewhere.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">So next time somebody asks, my answer will be:<span style="font-weight: bold;"> My favorite record store is a tie, between Chicago's Jazz Record Mart</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">for their untouchable jazz/blues selection</span>), <span style="font-weight: bold;">and Amoeba Music in Hollywood</span>; <span style="font-style: italic;">because man does not live on jazz and blues alone.</span></span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://jazzmart.com/">http://jazzmart.com</a><br /><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://www.amoeba.com/">http://www.amoeba.com</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">P.S. For the record, my quarry from JRM on Friday 7/2/2010</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">* Taj Mahal - Mo' Roots</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">* Taj Mahal - The Real Thing</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">* Herbie Mann - Stone Flute</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">* Brute Force (I'd never seen this, produced by Herbie Mann, with Sonny Sharrock on 3 tracks)</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">* Jack McDuff - Screamin' Brother Jack</span> McDuff<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">* Joe Farrell - Moon Germs</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">* Joel Paterson & Modern Sounds - </span><span id="ctl00_rightColumn_lblAlbumName" class="album-name" style="font-family:verdana;">Hold it Fellas / Stomp Stomp<br />* Derek Trucks Band - Roadsongs<br />* 1 JRM / Chicago Blues t-shirt<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><p></p>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-62405381807911330432010-02-03T10:51:00.001-08:002014-04-26T12:54:25.716-07:00July 1999 - 12/31/2009, best musical multi-night runs...<span style="font-family: verdana;">I have managed to see some epic musical performances. Sometimes it was just one night, other times it was 2 or 3 consecutive nights; and on rare occasion, a bit longer... Anyway, below is my list of the most memorable multi-night musical runs I have experienced these last 11 years, in chronological order. I chose summer 1999 as the starting point because there were some stand-outs then and the preceding couple years hadn't been as huge... While the majority of live music performances I have attended in my lifetime has been great, these multi-night runs stood out. Why, might some of you be asking, is there no mention of Widespread Panic's 1999 European Tour? Because I only caught 1 night (Paradiso/Amsterdam). As for the Beacon Runs, if I am going to list every one I've been to, whats the point of making a list here? That is why I was selective in which runs I chose (Allman or other bands). If my next 11 years on this planet are even half as interesting, from a music fan perspective, then consider me a damn lucky mofo :-)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">6/12/99, 6/13/1999 - The Allman Brothers Band @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre (Morrison, CO)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">I came from another continent to be there that weekend; from Reading, Berkshire (UK)... The fact I crossed an ocean from Allman deprived Europe gave this weekend an extra double or triple dose of sweetness. There was a large tribe of Disreputables, we were all staying at the Marriott in Golden, and we took it over. It was a crazy couple of nights. This particular weekend, these 2 shows were the first with Derek Trucks as a full time permanent member of the band (replacing Jack Pearson). It was this weekend that really launched my "traveling obsession/fanaticism" of my favorite bands.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">12/30/1999, 12/31/1999 - Phish @ Big Cypress Seminole Indian reservation (The Everglades in South Florida)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">Another major effort to be there... This time I traveled from Brussels, Belgium. Millennium weekend. I was there with my best friend since junior high school (early 80's), Mike, and although he had initially turned me on to Phish 8 years before, these were the first shows we caught together... 2 nights of solid music, on NYE they played from approximately 11:30 PM until sunrise the next morning.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">3/23/2001, 3/24/2001, 3/25/2001 - The Allman Brothers Band @ The Beacon Theatre (NYC)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">Another major effort to be there... This time I traveled from Santa Catarina, Brazil, which I had been calling home for the previous 5 months. The day before my flight, I was hiking in some woods and got bitten by mosquito's... By the time my plane landed in NY approximately 20 hours later, both my ankles were swollen to the point I could have used some crutches. Anyway, I had excellent seats with very close friends for 3 consecutive nights (3/23, 3/24, and 3/25); and these were the final 3 nights of the extended Beacon Run... It was after this run they announced that Warren Haynes had rejoined the band on a permanent basis (He was "guest guitarist" for the run, replacing "interim guitarist" Jimmy Herring who had initially stepped in when Dickey Betts left the band)... Regarding the vibe that weekend: The energy in the air, being generated both on stage and from the audience, and back and forth, was incredible... This was my first Beacon experience too. All the familiar faces I saw in the theatre and/or neighborhood, and the huge tribe staying at the Beacon Hotel made it even more special... By the end of the weekend, I lost my voice. To this day this might be the best 3 nights, overall, of live music I have experienced, period. Not that the rest of this list wasn't as good, they were; but this weekend was the perfect overall vibe that will never be recaptured.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">12/30/2003, 12/31/2003 - Gov't Mule @ The Beacon Theatre (NYC)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">This was a last moment deal... I found out a couple weeks before the shows that a friend was holding some extra's if I wanted them, and worked this weekend into my NYE plans. I stayed at the Beacon Hotel, more quality time with Disreputables; and since this was a present to myself because I had just annulled my marriage, after enduring a very unrewarding few months of marital non-bliss, I followed this weekend with a short week in Amsterdam ;-) If I remember correctly, on 12/31, Warren teased 20th Century Schizoid Man AND Hocus Pocus (I am such a prog geek).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">10/22/2004, 10/21/2004, 10/24/2004 - MagnoliaFest @ Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park (Live Oak, Fl)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">A sh*tload of bands over a 3 day period... The one though, that influenced me to pull the trigger on a ticket and be there was a Colonel Bruce Hampton and the Aquarium Rescue Unit reunion show. Aside from this zambirrific band, other highlights were Peter Rowan's Crucial Reggae (with the Burning Spears Horns), The Codetalkers, Oteil & the Peacemakers, Derek Trucks Band, Railroad Earth, Blueground Undergrass, and Donna the Buffalo. Great music, a beautiful venue, and easy low stress not-too-crowded primitive camping.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">4/15/2005, 4/16/2005 - Wannee Festival @ Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park (Live Oak, Fl)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">This was the first annual Allman Brothers Band extended family musical orgy. Lineup was the Allman Bros, Derek Trucks Band, Gov't Mule, Oteil & the Peacemakers, Robert Randolph, Galactic; plus a few more. Another big showing of Disreputables from the tribe made this extra special; plus it wasn't too crowded, and we knew some people who had a cabin with warm water and AC if we needed a brief reprise from the weather and elements. The fact I got so drunk one mid day, almost passed out during Derek Truck's late afternoon daylight set, then recovered enough to the point I could communicate and be comprehended later that night; is the kind of tale of which legend is born :-) I also wound up backstage one night, and although it wasn't the first time back there, it was the first and only time I was introduced to Gregg Allman and got to personally thank him, for so much great music and memories over the years. We also had a crazy Matt Abts moment in a trailer I can't go into detail about here...</span> The music wasn't bad either...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">10/14/2005, 10/15/2005, 10/16/2005 - Steelin' & Slidin' (The Netherlands)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">The Derek Trucks Band's 1st ever 3 European shows, with Sonny Landreth, Buddy Cage, Dan Tyack, and Dutch musicians Johan Jansen and René van Barneveld... The 14th was in Groningen, the 15th in Eindhoven, and the 16th @ Paradiso in Amsterdam. All 3 nights were small venues but very nice rooms, with very enthusiastic fans. I made some great friends on that tour, hung out with DTB a bit, met Derek's grandfather; and I had the honor of buying Sonny Landreth a pint of Guinness late one night ;-) The music was awesome, seeing Sonny and Derek on stage together was pretty incendiary, and unknown (to me, at that time) Dan Tyack was killing it on pedal steel. The overall energy, although smaller scale due to smaller crowds, was comparable to the ABB's 2001 Beacon run mentioned above. Sadly, I haven't been back to Europe since this run of shows... I hope to remedy this situation sometime in 2010.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">1/20/2006, 1/21/2006 - Col. Bruce Hampton & the Aquarium Rescue Unit @ Fox Theatre (Boulder, CO)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">A couple more Col. Bruce Bruce reunion shows with Jimmy, Oteil, and Sipe; always something to get extremely excited about. I was in the beautiful town of Boulder, I was seeing ARU twice, and I was with a couple very close friends who were ARU virgins. What more needs to be said?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">4/19/2006, 4/20/2006 - David Gilmour (Los Angeles)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">I caught the show 4/19 @ Kodak Theater, and 4/20 @ the Gibson Theatre. I enjoyed the 4/20 show just a tad more because our seats were better. But, being a long time Pink Floyd FREAK and David Gilmour FREAK, I thought both of these shows were off the hook. Band included Phil Manzarek of Roxy Music on 2nd guitar, and Floyd alumni Richard Wright on keys; and for these 2 LA shows we also got David Crosby and Graham Nash doing back up vocals... Not too shabby.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">3/19/2009, 3/20/2009, 3/21/2009 - The Allman Brothers Band @ The Beacon Theatre (NYC)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">Another ABB Beacon run... This one was extra special for a few reasons. I was able to book my bro Scott's band "Go There" at Sullivan Hall, in the Village, on 3/18. This was the first "Go There" show w/Oteil Burbridge on bass, since Scott had released his "Go There" cd the year before which did feature Oteil along with his bro Kofi. I was pretty damn proud of myself for helping to make that happen. Secondly, Eric Clapton sat in 2 nights for a full set, those were my first ever live EC experiences... To see him playing Layla with Derek Trucks playing the Duane parts, it was MAGIC. Thirdly, I was able to gift brother Scott with a 2nd row seat for the 3/19 show... It was his 1st ever live Derek Trucks sighting, his first time seeing the Allman Bros since the 70's, and I don't know if he had ever seen Clapton before that night. So, aside from the awesome music I heard 4 nights in a row, it was pretty rewarding to turn my bro onto this wonderful scene I am a part of.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">4/15/2009, 5/8/2009, 5/9/2009 - Derek Trucks Band (NorCal)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">I have seen the Derek Trucks Band a sh*tload of times since my 1st show in January of 2000... As good as every one has been, the next one is always just a little bit better. I pretty much try to catch whatever shows are reasonably nearby as often as they come through; and these 3 were the last ones I saw - Thus they are included on this list. 4/15 was at Regency Center in San Fran. Carlos Santana sat in. At one point he and Derek were soloing and trading licks, and while Derek was going off Carlos just kind of quit playing and was laughing at Derek, watching him play and point at him; it was obvious he was as mesmerized as the rest of us. Fast forward a couple weeks later - 5/8, the Crest Theatre in Sacramento. A nice old room I had never been in before. 5/9 was the Fountain Blues Fest on San Jose State Campus. Sacramento was fun (like every DTB show), good crowd, the band feeding off the crowd, an out version of My Favorite Things... You know the drill... San Jose was more a blues set, which DTB doesn't give you too often (it was a blues fest). There were a lot of Derek Trucks newbies at this festival, and it's always a lot of fun seeing their reactions and expressions when seeing the Derek Trucks band for the first time. This band is on a prolonged hiatus now; and while I am sad I won't get to see this particular group of artists on stage together for a year or longer, I am very excited about all the other possibilities this hiatus opens up for them </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">10/30/2009, 10/31/2009, 11/1/2009 - Phish @ Festival 8 (Indio, CA)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">This was another spontaneous last minute deal for me... I had seen them the previous August here in the Bay Area; and a couple weeks before this festival I saw some cheap tickets for sale on craigslist. I asked for and was given a couple days of paid time off at work; so I snagged the ticket, booked a cheapo hotel room, and drove down to the Palm Springs desert. The music was exceptional, the festival was a trip, Halloween was particularly wacky. The album they covered was Rolling Stones "Exile on Main Street" and they had Sharon Jones of the Dap Kings doing backup vocals. We were also treated to Phish'es 1st ever acoustic set. It was a great time, a very well organized festival, and I hope they do it again in 2010.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">11/12/2009, 11/13/2009, 11/14/2009 - Widespread Panic @ Fox Theatre (Oakland, CA)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">I've been catching WSP shows since '92, but was never really motivated to do multi-night runs until the Jimmy Herring era... I would have loved to have done more runs earlier on with them, but it wasn't in my budget, or my work schedule didn't allow it... I was a bit of a Mikey snob, and even though I am a HUGE Jimmy Herring advocate (I am obsessed with his 1st band, ARU), it took me quite a while to really enjoy a Panic show without comparing them to their former and different 6 headed monster jam... They are still KILLER, but a less balanced band in my opinion, with sideman extraordinaire Jimmy Herring playing lead guitar. I did an LA Orpheum run in '06 I think it was, the Oakland Paramount run in '07, and this Fox Oak run back in November last year... After 3 plus years of Jimmy being in the band, this last run makes my list. I had a blast at these 3 shows! Still, long live the memory and music of Mikey Houser.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">* <span style="font-weight: bold;">12/29/2009, 12/30/2009, 12/31/2009 - Phish @ American Airlines Arena (Miami, FL)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana;">10 years later, back in South Florida seeing Phish play some NYE shows, with my old friend and partner in crime, Mike. We caught 3 nights of a 4 night run. More excellent music, and despite the fact Miami is a very weird city (There was a fight at Shakedown Street one night post show AND I saw a cop beating up a hippie for hitting a nitrous balloon - I know its illegal and bad for you, maybe I have been in Cali too long and thus I'm jaded), that weirdness added to the weekend overall, and this run still makes my list; because musically Phish is so on top of their game at this moment.</span>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-92044669998383535882010-02-03T09:45:00.000-08:002010-02-03T10:38:37.586-08:00My belated picks...Best cd's of 2009<span style="font-family:verdana;">Better late than never... Here is my list... But first, some disclaimers and notes... I stuck to cd's that are more or less commercially available in stores - I didn't include any Allman Beacon cd's, although all 6 of the ones I bought are killer, as are the other shows which I procured SBD's of... Same thing applies to the other live ABB cd's I got (Vegas and Fox) which also sound mighty fine. I also didn't include any downloads from muletracks.com or livephish.com - I also didn't include dTb's "Already Live" because it's an EP and not a full length show,and there are many complete excellent sounding dTb recordings on the LMA. Anyway, these are my choices, with a few comments thrown in here and there, (following a **). The list is in alphabetical order.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">...Like Perry Farrell says: "Everybody has their own opinion..."</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">====================</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Best of 2009</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">01- <span style="font-weight: bold;">John Abercrombie Quartet - Wait Till You see Her</span> </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">02- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Alice in Chains - Black Gives Way To Blue</span> ** Alice in Chains is back!</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">03- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pedro Arevalo - Pedro Aravelo & Friends Too</span> ** Great cover of Jimi's "My Friend" - This cd reminds me of Hot Tuna, although I like it better than Jorma's 2009 album "River of Time"</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">04- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Roy Buchanan - Live: Amazing Grace</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">05- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Five Peace Band (Chick Corea & John McLaughlin) - Live</span> ** This and the phish are my 2 favorites of the year.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">06- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bill Frisell</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">- Disfarmer</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">07- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gov't Mule - By a Thread</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">08- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ben Harper and Relentless7 - White Lies For Dark Times</span> ** Ben Harper is so underrated as a guitar player. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">09- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Living Colour - The Chair in the Doorway</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">10- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eric McFadden - Train to Salvation</span> ** Awesome album, not the trio; more songwriter oriented, very dark.... Comes w/a live DVD. This album is a French import, and I had to order it from Switzerland, even though we practically live in the same zip code; because I was too impatient to wait.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">11- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Medeski Martin & Wood</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">- Radiolarians</span> (II & III, or the entire box set)</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">12- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Willie Nelson & Asleep at the Wheel - Willie and the Wheel</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">13- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Phish - Joy</span> ** This and the Five Peace band are my 2 favorites of the year.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">14- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Porcupine Tree - The Incident</span> ** Still IMO the best post 80's prog band.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">15- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rodrigo y Gabriela - 11:11</span> ** This is a burning album. If you're into the McLaughlin/DeLucia/Dimeola albums, then you'll dig this too.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">16- <span style="font-weight: bold;">John Scofield - Piety Street</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">17- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mike Stern - Big Neighborhood</span> ** Guitar geek music. Guests on this cd include Steve Vai, Medeski Martin & Wood, Randy Brecker, Dave Weckl, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Eric Johnson (where has this cat been since he released "Tones" 24 years ago??)</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">18- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Derek Trucks Band - Already Free</span> ** Woohoo, 2009 Grammy winner :-)</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">19- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Umphrey's McGee - Mantis</span> ** It took a long while for UM to grow on me, but they finally did... I had them written off as phish wannabe's, but on this album IMO they now have their own musical voice. If you dig classic prog bands you'll probably dig this album.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">20- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steven Wilson - Insurgentes</span> ** Steven Wilson is Porcupine Tree's mastermind; or dictator, depending on how you read into it. This album is more out, textured, and lush; not as heavy as what PT is doing nowadays. This is closer maybe to Pink Floyd or Radiohead.</span>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4426523648753001653.post-70304872622752628622009-01-29T12:12:00.000-08:002009-02-02T16:56:17.055-08:00Top 20 CD's of 2008<div>Well, I have officially joined the 21st century... Presenting my first ever blog. Please excuse any spelling or grammatical errors. These are my Top 20 favorite CD's released in 2008. Hopefully, I didn't make any factual errors in my descriptions. As far as whether or not you agree; these are simply my opinions, and you know what they say about opinions... Anyway, here it is, for better or worse (alphabetic order).<br /><br />* <b>Jeff Beck - Live at Ronnie Scott's</b><br />JB is on top of his game these days, as evidenced by this excellent live set with wunderkind Tal Wilkenfeld on bass... This CD was recorded during an extended run of shows at Ronnie Scott's in London. Very nice production and has music spanning most of his career; Beck's Bolero, Wired, Blow by Blow, and There & Back albums, a few tunes from more recent albums; and even a few choice covers from the likes of the Beatles, John McGlaughlin, and Billy Cobham. There are also some bootleg soundboard recordings circulating from some of the other sets not on this CD. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Performing-This-Week-Live-Ronnie-Scotts/dp/B001GSV3EC">http://www.amazon.com/Performing-This-Week-Live-Ronnie-Scotts/dp/B001GSV3EC</a><br /><br />* <b>Marco Benevento - Invisible Baby</b><br />Marco on a variety of keyboard instruments with Reed Mathis on bass, Matt Chamberlain and Andrew Barr on drums. Funky and experimental compared to the duo, perhaps a result of gigging with Bobby Previte's Coalition of the Willing... I prefer this over his duo project. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Baby-Marco-Benevento/dp/B0010ZR06Q">http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Baby-Marco-Benevento/dp/B0010ZR06Q</a><br /><br />* <b>Will Bernard - Blue Plate Special</b><br />Will's best recorded effort yet, in my opinion... Then again, how can you go wrong with Will Bernard, Stanton Moore, John Medeski, and Andy Hess? Lots of nasty funky groove, great musicianship, and no filler. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Plate-Special-Will-Bernard/dp/B001E08TC6">http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Plate-Special-Will-Bernard/dp/B001E08TC6</a><br /><br />* <b>The Black Crowes - Warpaint</b><br />I have never been a huge Black Crowes fan, but I've always liked them and have been catching live shows intermittently since I saw them open for Aerosmith in 1989. Luther Dickinson handles lead guitar duties on this release and brings a lot to the table. Nothing new really, but I personally think this is their best release since Amorica, which came out back in '94. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Warpaint-Black-Crowes/dp/B00112A6HS">http://www.amazon.com/Warpaint-Black-Crowes/dp/B00112A6HS</a><br /><br />* <b>Bill Frisell - History, Mystery</b><br />Live recordings from 2006-07 with his octet, a 2 CD set - Kenny Wollesen (drums) and Tony Scherr (bass) rhythm section; along with cornet, sax/clarinet, violin, viola, and cello. This music blows me away! It's a recent buy, late-December, and it's better with each listen. Moves freely between classical, jazz, groove (Ex. "Struggle), blues, and out. Very well produced by Lee Townsend. The first adjectives that come to mind are beautiful, haunting, hypnotic, and abstract. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/History-Mystery-Bill-Frisell/dp/B0016OMGFG">http://www.amazon.com/History-Mystery-Bill-Frisell/dp/B0016OMGFG</a><br /><br />* <b>Garaj Mahal - w00t</b><br />The 3rd studio effort by Garaj Mahal. They are one of those bands who I prefer studio over live, and they definitely deliver on this album. Lots of funky moments and technical virtuosity, and 3 tracks feature Fareed Haque playing the Moog guitar. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Woot-Garaj-Mahal/dp/B001E1BO68">http://www.amazon.com/Woot-Garaj-Mahal/dp/B001E1BO68</a><br /><br />* <b>Gongzilla - Five Even</b><br />In the past kind of jazz, kind of progressive rock; now Gongzilla has mixed things up and added vocals... The core of the band is still the same: Bon Lozaga on guitar, Hansford Rowe on bass, and Phil Kester on drums; along with guests David Fiuczynski, Chuck Garvey, Kai Eckhardt, and Jake Cinninger. They still have the textural abstract thing going on, and groove; but there's less percussion/marimba, and the songs are a little more structured with melodies and hooks, etc, versus their previous releases. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=23888">http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=23888</a><br /><br />* <b>Buddy Guy - Skin Deep</b><br />In my opinion, all of Buddy's Silvertone releases have been keepers, and this latest effort is no exception. This release has a lot of nice moments featuring guests such as Derek Trucks, Susan Tedeski, Robert Randolph, and Eric Clapton. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Skin-Deep-Buddy-Guy/dp/B001870MES">http://www.amazon.com/Skin-Deep-Buddy-Guy/dp/B001870MES</a><br /><br />* <b>Charlie Haden: Family & Friends - Rambling Boy</b><br />Charlie has gone back to his roots on this fine release... Lots of guest vocalists and musicians; Jerry Douglas (dobro), Sam Bush (mandolin), and Stuart Duncan (fiddle) are all over this recording. The CD is worth the price alone for the burning solo's by Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, and Bela Fleck on the track "Old Joe Clark." Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rambling-Boy-Charlie-Haden/dp/B001BCCPYK">http://www.amazon.com/Rambling-Boy-Charlie-Haden/dp/B001BCCPYK</a><br /><br />* <b>Jimmy Herring - Lifeboat</b><br />It's about time the jam world's most humble sideman released his own CD. The core band is Jimmy on guitar, Oteil Burbridge on bass, Jeff Sipe on drums, and Kofi Burbridge on piano. Then there are all the other great musicians contributing to different tracks: Derek Trucks, Greg Osby, Bobby Lee Rodgers, Ike Stubblefield, Matt Slocum, Scott Kinsey, and Tyler Greenwell. I was expecting this to sound similar to Aquarium Rescue Unit; but to my ears its closer to Weather Report. My favorite track on this CD is the "Jungle Book Overture." Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=23855">http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=23855</a><br /><br />* <b>Charlie Hunter - Baboon Strength</b><br />Charlie is one of my favorite artists... In the event you are not familiar with him, he plays a guitar with guitar and bass strings, plays bass lines and guitar lines simultaneously. If you haven't seen Charlie Hunter live, you most definitely should check him out; and if you're a musician, prepare to be amazed... On this trio recording he is back to 7 string guitar (I'm pretty sure he's been using an 8-stringer on his previous recent CD's). He's accompanied by Erik Deutch on keyboards and casio tone, and newcomer Tony Mason on drums... On his earlier releases, Charlie's music was more in the jazz vein - Like his more recent releases, this CD continues to go more in the rock and experimental direction. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.charliehunter.com/baboon-strength/index.php">http://www.charliehunter.com/baboon-strength/index.php</a><br /><br />* <b>Eric McFadden Trio - Delicate Thing</b><br />Eric McFadden is the best kept secret in the Bay Area; he plays out fairly regularly, releases CD's regularly, and is one of the most versatile guitarists I have ever seen. This guy is equally at home playing Django style gypsy jazz, flamenco, solo acoustic songwriter type stuff, bluegrass mandolin, and shredding electric guitar. The fact he is not more well known boggles my mind... The trio is him on guitar, James Whiton on upright bass (using effects, and a bow); and a rotating cast of drummers - On Delicate Thing the drummer is Paulo Baldi. Songs on this disc run the gamut from slower tunes with interesting lyrics, to more rocking tunes that would fit right in on Headbanger's Ball, such as "Bigger Piece of You." Buy the CD here: <a href="http://cdbaby.com/cd/ericmcfadden5">http://cdbaby.com/cd/ericmcfadden5</a><br /><br />* <b>Medeski Martin & Wood - Radiolarians I</b><br />MMW's "Radiolarian" endeavor is this, in this sequence: In 4 months write new songs, perform songs live while on tour, record the songs, release the CD. Repeat 2 more times... So in a reversal from the normal trend, they are playing the music before making it available on commercial release; and this is the first of the 3 Radiolarian CD's to be released... Quite ambitious in my opinion... Since MMW is one of my favorite bands live and/or studio, its no surprise that this excellent CD is on my list. Based on the live performances I heard throughout 2008, I suspect the next 2 volumes will appear on my best of 2009 list. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Radiolarians-1-Medeski-Martin-Wood/dp/B001DUJNHM">http://www.amazon.com/Radiolarians-1-Medeski-Martin-Wood/dp/B001DUJNHM</a><br /><br />* <b>Ohm - Circus of Sound</b><br />Ex-Megadeth lead guitarist Chris Poland's instrumental progressive band, they've been making music since 1997. Along with Chris, there is Robertino Pagliari on bass, and 3 different drummers including Kofi Baker.... Nothing new or groundbreaking here, their 3rd studio recording, just more "metal-ish" fusion... What can I say? Old white guy music? Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Circus-Sound-Ohm/dp/B001BWQA6O">http://www.amazon.com/Circus-Sound-Ohm/dp/B001BWQA6O</a><br /><br />* <b>Opeth - Watershed</b><br />Opeth's 9th album, and their first with a new lead guitar player and drummer. Like their previous efforts, I consider this death metal overall; but I also hear traces of different influences - 70's style progressive rock keyboards, lots of crunchy guitar solos and equally virtuosic acoustic guitar lines, intricate musical collaborative work-outs ala Rush and Dream Theater; and equal parts cookie monster unintelligible growls and soft ballad-like vocals. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=4426523648753001653&postID=7030487262275262862">http://www.amazon.com/Watershed-Opeth/dp/B0018CWWFK</a><br /><br />* <b>Railroad Earth - Amen Corner</b><br />I'm pretty particular about bluegrass/jamgrass music. String Cheese Incident didn't do it for me, nor do most of the like minded bands that came along afterwards. Railroad Earth is the exception to the rule. I saw them play at a festival a few years back and have been hooked ever since. More rock elements than bluegrass in my opinion. Great musicians in this band. My favorite track off the CD is "All Alone" which could easily pass for a "Jerry song" - A good thing... Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Watershed-Opeth/dp/B0018CWWFK">http://www.amazon.com/Amen-Corner-Railroad-Earth/dp/B0018OAOOO</a><br /><br />* <b>Marc Ribot's Ceramic Dog - Party Intellectuals</b><br />This CD is pretty out... The tracks are as diverse as his sideman gigs are... Although I classify this as a rock album, it covers a lot of different ground. The band is a stripped down 3 piece - guitar, bass and moog, drums and electronics; along with some guest vocalists on a couple tracks, and guest percussion on one track. Edgy, dark, and eclectic. I like their grunge punk version of "Break On Through." Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Party-Intellectuals-Marc-Ribots-Ceramic/dp/B0017LFKVU">http://www.amazon.com/Party-Intellectuals-Marc-Ribots-Ceramic/dp/B0017LFKVU</a><br /><br />* <b>Rose Hill Drive - Moon is the New Earth</b><br />One of the better old school rock power trio's in my opinion. A Colorado band... Reminds me of Zeppelin, Cream, and also newer band Wolfmother. This excellent album is their 2nd studio release; I was skeptical it would match their debut album, and I was pleasantly surprised. This is a very young band, If they stay together I expect more great things from them. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Moon-Earth-Rose-Hill-Drive/dp/B00197U0N0">http://www.amazon.com/Moon-Earth-Rose-Hill-Drive/dp/B00197U0N0</a><br /><br />* <b>McCoy Tyner - Guitars</b><br />This is a KILLER CD... McCoy along with the rhythm section of Ron Carter and Jack DeJohnette along with guitarists Bill Frisell, Derek Trucks, John Scofield, Marc Ribot, and banjoist Bela Fleck. The package also includes a DVD of the studio sessions, which I haven't yet watched, so I can't comment on that... The CD though, is excellent. I like the Bela Fleck tracks best. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Guitars-CD-DVD-McCoy-Tyner/dp/B001D84S0Q">http://www.amazon.com/Guitars-CD-DVD-McCoy-Tyner/dp/B001D84S0Q</a><br /><br />* <b>John Zorn - Zaebos: Book of Angels 11</b><br />This is music composed by John Zorn, but performed by Medeski Martin & Wood; a continuation of Zorn's "Masada" theme. This CD is dark and dense compared to MMW's 2008 Radiolarians release, in my opinion. Buy the CD here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Zaebos-Book-Angels-Vol-11/dp/B0019R4TK0">http://www.amazon.com/Zaebos-Book-Angels-Vol-11/dp/B0019R4TK0</a><br /><p><br /><br /><br /></p></div>RandomGrooverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14853385622759552503noreply@blogger.com1