Florence + the Machine's 'High As Hope' out today

There are several notable new releases out today, but here is the one I am most looking forward to hearing! I've heard "Hunger" and "Big God," and both will satisfy fans of Florence + the Machine's previous compelling recordings...

FLORENCE + THE MACHINE’S HIGH AS HOPE OUT NOW

TOURING NORTH AMERICA THIS FALL
 
“This time around, her voice is stronger than ever…”  —The New York Times

“Florence Welch’s wonderful fourth album marks the realisation of a singular talent…
Listeners may feel…shaken into awed silence but in no doubt about the
scale of her achievement.” —The Telegraph

NEW YORK, NY (June 29, 2018) – High As Hope, the immensely anticipated new album fromFlorence + the Machine, is out today on Republic Records—get it here. Co-produced by Florence and Emile Haynie and featuring contributions from Kamasi Washington, Sampha, Tobias Jesso Jr, Kelsey Lu, Jamie xx and Thomas Barlett, the album includes previous-released songs “Hunger”—currently #1 at AAA radio and Top 10 at Alternative radio, “Big God” and “Sky Full of Song.”

Furthermore, Florence will embark on a 23-city North American fall headline tour, including two nights at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl September 25 & 26 and Washington, D.C.’s The Anthem October 5 & 6, with further stops at New York Barclays Center and in Seattle, Portland, Nashville, Philadelphia, Chicago and more. Tickets are on sale now, visit florenceandthemachine.net for more information.

Watch the video for “Big God,” directed by Autumn de Wilde and choreographed by Akram Khan and Florence, here. 

FLORENCE + THE MACHINE LIVE

5-Aug	Montreal, QC, Canada	Osheaga
9-Aug	Lake Tahoe, NV	Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys*
11-Aug	San Francisco, CA	Outside Lands
8-Sep	Vancouver, BC, Canada	Skookum Festival
10-Sep	Seattle, WA	KeyArena†
11-Sep	Portland, OR	Moda Center†
14-Sep	Salt Lake City, UT	Maverik Center†
15-Sep	Denver, CO	Grandoozy Festival
22-Sep	Las Vegas, NV	Life Is Beautiful
23-Sep	San Diego, CA	Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl San Diego State University‡
25-Sep	Los Angeles, CA	Hollywood Bowl‡
26-Sep	Los Angeles, CA	Hollywood Bowl‡
29-Sep	Dallas, TX	The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory‡
30-Sep	Houston, TX	The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion‡
2-Oct	Nashville, TN	Bridgestone Arena§
3-Oct	Charlotte, NC	Spectrum Center§
5-Oct	Washington, D.C.	The Anthem**
6-Oct	Washington, D.C.	The Anthem**
9-Oct	New York, NY	Barclays Center‡
12-Oct	Boston, MA	TD Garden††
13-Oct	Uncasville, CT	Mohegan Sun Arena††
14-Oct	Philadelphia, PA	Wells Fargo Center††
16-Oct	Toronto, ON, Canada	Air Canada Centre††
19-Oct	Chicago, IL	United Center‡‡
20-Oct	Minneapolis, MN	Target Center‡‡

*with Wet

†with St. Vincent and Lizzo

‡with Kamasi Washington

§with Billie Eilish

**with Beth Ditto

††with Grizzly Bear

‡‡with Perfume Genius

FLORENCE + THE MACHINE—HIGH AS HOPE

1. June
2. Hunger
3. South London Forever
4. Big God
5. Sky Full of Song
6. Grace
7. Patricia
8. 100 Years
9. The End of Love
10. No Choir

MUSIC WORTH BUYING episode: "Is It All Over for Rock Music?"

On the most recent episode of MUSIC WORTH BUYING, TJR and Robert Kinsler ask (and tackle) answering the question "Is it all over for Rock Music?"

Genre Leaders Return via Outstanding Titles

A trio of new albums and a music documentary newly out on DVD and Blu-ray are all essential for rock fans.

Artist: A Flock of Seagulls (with the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra)
Title: Ascension (August Day Records)
You might like if you enjoy: A Flock of Seagulls, The Cars
Tell me more: It's wonderful to hear all four original members of A Flock of Seagulls back together on Ascension, an album that finds the groundbreaking English quartet joining forces with the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra to offer up creative reworkings of many of the band's most-loved '80s hits. Brothers Mike Score (lead vocals, keyboards) and Ali Score (drums), Frank Maudsley (bass guitar) and Paul Reynolds (guitar) carved out a groundbreaking synth-pop sound during the early 1980s and released a slew of infectious songs (including three top 40 singles) that explored the synthesis of love, technology and science fiction during the dawn of the personal computer. It's no wonder the band was selected to perform at Apple co-founder Gary "Woz" Wozniak's US Festival in May 1983 (the event held at Glen Helen Regional Park in 1982 and again in 1983 is widely recognized as the predecessor of Coachella). Ascension is A Flock of Seagulls' sixth studio album, and the first since 1984 (the wonderful The Story of a Young Heart) that features all four original members. Among the early tracks that most benefit from the new symphonic arrangements are the pulsating "Modern Love Is Automatic," buoyant "Telecommunication," lush "Space Age Love Song" and intoxicating "Wishing (If I Had a Photograph of You)." Later-disc standouts include the edgy "Nightmares" (which fully utilizes the fusion of band and orchestra), the driving instrumental "DNA" and sublime "The More You Live." Information: aflockofseagulls.org.

Artist: Gin Blossoms
Title: Mixed Reality (Cleopatra Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Gin Blossoms, Matthew Sweet
Tell me more: Formed in Tempe, Arizona in 1987, the Gin Blossoms created a melodically-rich style of modern rock; the band's 1992 breakout disc New Miserable Experience resonated like few alt rock albums that decade and spawned four Top 40 singles (including "Hey Jealousy" and "Found Out About You). Fast forward to 2018 and the talented troupe has returned with Mixed Reality, the Blossoms' first new studio album since 2010's No Chocolate Cake. The great news for Gin Blossoms fans is the group's timeless sound and strength as songwriters endures across Mixed Reality. Those looking to be swept up in the band's driving rhythms, shimmering guitars (courtesy of Jesse Valenzuela and Scott "Scotty" Johnson) and Robin Wilson's signature lead vocals will find all those outstanding elements on full display across the ambitious 15-track Mixed Reality. The highlights abound on the LP, with the harmonies-rich "Break," exhilarating,"Face the Dark," wistful alt-country ballad "Girl on the Side" and guitar-fueled jangle pop standout "Still Some Room in Heaven" among this writer's early favorites on the disc. The stellar track list continues with the lovely "Wonder," freewheeling garage rocker "Shadow" and melodic "Mega Pawn King" among the later treasures. Working with legendary producer Don Dixon (The Smithereens, Tommy Keene) and noted engineer Mitch Easter (R.E.M., Game Theory), Mixed Reality is a stellar return for one of power pop's most beloved modern-day heroes. Information: Information: ginblossoms.net.

Artist: Dave Matthews Band
Title: Come Tomorrow (RCA)
You might like if you enjoy: Dave Matthews Band
Tell me more: Despite years of success as a touring collective and a string of celebrated album releases, the Dave Matthews Band remains unique. Blending jam rock, roots, blues, jazz and a genre-defying eclecticism, DMB's timeless approach continues to radiate brightly on the newly-released Come Tomorrow, which is the troupe's first new studio album since 2012's "Away from the World." Take the lead-off track "Samurai Cop (Oh Joy Begin)," with its mix of anthemic celebration and melancholy somehow locked in perfect unison. The affecting "Can't Stop" wins with its heavy use of percussion, sublime layers of vocal harmonies and a sonic cacophony throughout the song's latter half. "Here On Out" finds Matthews treating listeners to an almost-Baroque Pop treatment worthy of Burt Bacharach or Ron Sexsmith's most intimate material. "Come On Come On" is a beautiful expression of the power of love, and the song's soundscape captures that with power and sonic tone. The sonically diverse title track "Come Tomorrow" is propelled by both rhythm and symphonic swings; the closing track "When I'm Weary" features Matthews' most intimate singing voice, at times going into a falsetto and packing an emotional wallop in its brief two-minute span. My favorite track is "Virginia In the Rain," an expansive and beguiling song whose sway grows with each subsequent listen. The DMB will headline at the Hollywood Bowl on Sept. 10, 2018. Information: DaveMatthewsBand.com.

Artist: Jeff Beck
Title: Still On The Run – The Jeff Beck Story (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour
Tell me more: Jeff Beck has long been recognized as one of the most talented and innovative electric guitar players on the planet. On the aptly-titled documentary Still On The Run – The Jeff Beck Story, a parade of musical greats help tell the story of the Surrey, England native. Over the course of the 90-minute documentary, old photographs and historic film and video clips showcase his development as an artist, and interviews with band mates, album producers and industry insiders help tell the story of the enigmatic artist. Highlights of the fast-moving and fascinating documentary include details on Beck's friendship with Jimi Page (the two met in their early teens and were bandmates in the Yardbirds), his success with several different incarnations of the Jeff Beck Group and his solo masterworks (including Blow By Blow and Wired). The scenes of Beck building and restoring hot rods add depth and seem to provide a comfortable setting for the admittedly-reserved Beck to open up on camera. Among the many great artists who help tell Beck's story are Eric Clapton, Slash, David Gilmour, Joe Perry, Jan Hammer, Beth Hart, Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood. A bonus feature on the DVD is the performance of five previously-unreleased tracks from Beck's performance at the Montreal Jazz Festival. Information: eagle-rock.com.


Robert Kinsler

Paul Rodgers’ 'Free Spirit – Celebrating The Music of Free' out now

This title sounds great, and will appeal to fans of Paul Rogers' fantastic vocals and songcraft, as well as his early band Free!



Paul Rodgers’ Free Spirit out now; deep cuts live album from London's Royal Albert Hall includes Free's biggest hits

Paul Rodgers / Photo by Christie Goodwin

Fans worldwide can now stream the new project from Paul Rodgers, Paul Rodgers – Free Spirit – Celebrating The Music of Free, released on Quarto Valley Records. This hits and deep cuts live recording, taped from a sold-out performance at London's Royal Albert Hall, celebrates the 50th anniversary of Free. Called a "must have for any fan of Free and Paul Rodgers," Free Spirit is available across all digital platforms, and will be available on CD/DVD, Blu-ray, and vinyl on Friday, June 29, 2018.

AMAZON  ||  ITUNES  ||  GOOGLE MUSIC  ||  SPOTIFY 

"I was emotionally rapt at Paul's Free Spirit show. Free were heroes to us when I was at college, and the Fire and Water album was one of our essential bibles. Still is!!!" —Brian May (Queen)

“It’s a given that rock enthusiasts will be jamming along with Rodgers’ grooves forever.” —Billboard

"Let's be honest this man could sing your weekly shopping list and still give you goosebumps. For fans, it gives a chance to hear songs like ‘Love You So’ and ‘Catch A Train’ performed live for the first time as Free never got the opportunity to." —The Rockin' Chair

This 16-song collection includes inspired performances of rock hits like “All Right Now,” “Wishing Well,” “Fire and Water,” and many deep tracks—some of which were never performed live by the original band, such as “Love You So” and “Catch a Train.” Along with this collection, those who purchase the Blu-ray and vinyl can expect exclusive footage and bonus tracks from opening acts Jasmine Rodgers, artist and multi-instrumentalist daughter of Paul, and Deborah Bonham, rock/blues vocalist and sister of Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham.

"I have been making music for a long, long, long time, so to get supercharged and re-inspired to perform was a revelation,” says Rodgers. “I loved the Free Spirit Tour and the guys who helped create the magic. I hope you feel it too. Just lose yourself in the music and let it fuel your soul."

According to Robert Plant “Paul Rodgers [is] the voice of all British voices,” and to Eric Clapton, “Paul Rodgers is the real deal.” Beginning his iconic music career as a founding member, main songwriter, and frontman for Free, Rodgers is regarded as one of the greatest vocalists in rock history by contemporaries and fans. Rodgers has sold over 125 million records worldwide with his legendary bands Free, Bad Company, The Firm and as a Grammy-nominated solo artist.

“We are very excited and extremely honored to be part of this historic event,” says Bruce Quarto, president of Quarto Valley Records. “This performance, perfectly captured in a variety of formats, is truly a rare event that any Paul Rodgers fan will definitely want to watch and listen to, over and over again.”

This summer Jeff Beck and Paul Rodgers front the co-headlining Stars Align Tour, with Ann Wilson of Heart, and opening act Deborah Bonham. 

###

About Paul Rodgers:
Growing up in the sprawling industrial North Yorkshire city of Middlesbrough, Paul Rodgers formed his first band at the ripe age of 14. Shortly after at 18, he formed Free along with late guitarist Paul Kossoff. They gained international success with the Rodgers / Fraser smash single “All Right Now.” For five decades, Rodgers has been recording and performing. He has written, recorded, produced and released 30 albums and has sold 125 million records. He has received numerous awards: the prestigious Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Music (other recipients include John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and Elton John), an honorary Doctorate of Letters from Teesside University, BMI’s 5 Million US Radio Plays Awarded for “All Right Now”, the Chairman’s Award from the US Music Business Association, and more. He has recorded and/or performed with Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Brian May, Sam Moore, Joe Walsh, Ann Wilson, Slash, Nils Lofgren, Charlie Watts, Bryan Adams, Buddy Guy, and others. In his remarkable career, Rodgers has fronted the bands Free, Bad Company and The Firm, and continues to have a celebrated, award-winning solo career.

About Quarto Valley Records:
California-based Quarto Valley Records celebrated their fifth anniversary in 2017. Founded by tech entrepreneur Bruce Quarto, the label is dedicated to supporting and expanding the genres of rock, jazz and blues music. Passionate about supporting artists and their creative process, Quarto’s goal is to reinvent the traditional record company with a new business model that is fair and respectful to the artists.

Capitol/UMe to release Neil Diamond's 'Hot August Night III' on August 17, 2018

This is very exciting news. I was fortunate to get to see Neil Diamond when he performed at the Greek Theatre and it was truly a powerful and memorable concert (you can read my review of that show here)...Robert Kinsler

Legendary Artist Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of his 
break-through HOT AUGUST NIGHT album with Concert DVD Blu-Ray, CD Multi Disc Set

Neil Diamond at the Greek Theatre on Aug. 18, 2012.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Los Angeles - June 22, 2018 – On August 17, Capitol/UMe will celebrate one of the century's most electrifying live albums, with the release of Neil Diamond's Hot August Night Ill, a live concert DVD/CD Blu-Ray multi-disc set. Hot August Night Ill chronicles Diamond's triumphant return to the legendary Greek Theatre in Los Angeles in August 2012.The magical evening was Diamond's 40th anniversary celebration of the original multiplatinum-selling Hot August Night collection that was recorded at the very same venue in 1972.

Diamond's noted concert performance and onstage musical prowess is in full evidence on Hot August Night Ill, which features 33 songs including 31 greatest hits. Clocking in at over 2 hours and 20 minutes in length, Hot August Night Ill will be released in multiple audio/video configurations, including 2CD, 2CD + 1DVD, and 2CD + 1Blu-ray, as well as digital and download options. The multidisc set's accompanying video content contains rare behind-the scenes footage with both the band and the crew, showcasing the undeniably palpable energy surrounding Diamond's return to this most historic venue.

Following the 2012 shows at The Greek, Billboard Magazine said of Diamond's performance, "His voice remains powerful and accurate; he reaches towards the baritone register for emphasis, just as he did in the 70's. ...he never falters in delivering every line with conviction."

From the fine acoustic twang of "Forever in Blue Jeans" to the pure Americana swing of "Kentucky Woman" to the eternal sing-along sunshine of "Sweet Caroline” to the raw emotionality of "I Am…I Said" to the welcoming arms of "America,'' Hot August Night Ill cements Diamond's mastery of the live stage and his unique connection with audiences the world over.

Released in December 1972, the original Hot August Night - the title of which was culled from the opening line to one of Diamond's most celebrated tracks, 1969's "Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show" - captures a magical performance on the evening of one of his ten sold-out shows at the Greek that August. Of these nights, Robert Hilburn of The Los Angeles Times declared, "His 1972 Hot August Night stand at the Greek remains among the most celebrated series of shows by a mainstream pop-rock performer ever in LosAngeles.”

Throughout his illustrious and wide-ranging career, Neil Diamond has sold over 130 million albums worldwide and has dominated the charts for more than five decades with 38 Top 40 singles and 16 Top 10 albums. He has achieved record sales with 40 Gold albums,21 Platinum albums and 11 Multi-Platinum albums.

A Grammy Award-winning artist, Diamond is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall Of Fame, and has recently received The Johnny Mercer Award and the Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award, two of the highest honors bestowed upon songwriters. Diamond's many other achievements include a Golden Globe Award, 13 Grammy nominations, ASCAP Film and Television Award, Billboard Icon Award, American Music Award and 2009’s NARAS’s MusiCares Person of the Year Award. In 2011, Diamond received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor for his lifetime of contributions to American culture.

And now, with the endless dynamic enthusiasm that’s apparent all throughout Hot August Night III, Neil Diamond once again sweetly proves that good times never seemed so good.

Preorder Neil Diamond’s Hot August Night III here: https://neildiamond.lnk.to/HAN3

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Neil Diamond HOT AUGUST NIGHT III [2CD, 2CD+1DVD, 2CD+1BD, Digital Download]

Disc 1  
1.  OVERTURE

2. SOOLAIMON

3. BEAUTIFUL NOISE

4. FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS

5. LOVE ON THE ROCKS

6. HELLO AGAIN

7. SEPTEMBER MORN

8. PLAY ME

9. SHILO

10. RED, RED WINE

11. YOU GOT TO ME

12. GIRL, YOU’LL BE A WOMAN SOON

13. THANK THE LORD FOR THE NIGHT TIME

14. CHERRY, CHERRY

15. KENTUCKY WOMAN

16. SOLITARY MAN

17. GLORY ROAD

18. CHELSEA MORNING

19. I’M A BELIEVER

20. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSE

21. CRACKLIN’ ROSIE

Disc 2
1. AND THE GRASS WON’T PAY NO MIND

2. PRETTY AMAZING GRACE

3. WE 

4. STONES

5. YOU DON’T BRING ME FLOWERS

6. HOLLY HOLY

7. MORNINGSIDE 

8. CRUNCHY GRANOLA SUITE

9. SWEET CAROLINE

10. SWEET CAROLINE – REPRISE

11. I AM…I SAID

12. WALK OFF

13. AMERICA

14. BROTHER LOVE’S TRAVELLING SALVATION SHOW

15. I’VE BEEN THIS WAY BEFORE

16. WALK OFF 

17. BAND BOWS

18. AUDIENCE EXIT