In this column I review several essential titles set for release on Jan. 23, 2026, as well as a fantastic under-the-radar blues title issued last year.
Title: Symphonic Live (Mercury)
You might like if you enjoy: Yes, Asia
Tell me more: Captured in 2001 following the release of their Magnification album, Yes' Symphonic Live concert recording is set to be released in two formats: Blu-ray+2CD (reviewed here) and via a 4LP package (the latter is presented via a 180g Half Speed Mastered 4LP package). The high-definition concert film and related audio recording captured vocalist Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, lead guitarist Steve Howe and drummer Alan White performing a dazzling 14-track set with the European Festival Orchestra under the direction of Wilhelm Keitel along with American keyboardist Tom Brislin. The legendary virtuoso talents of Yes are a perfect fit with the backing of a full symphony orchestra as evidenced across the performance. The title features a mix of material off the Magnification album (which was recorded with an orchestra and marked Anderson's final studio album with Yes) as well as many of the pioneering English progressive rock band's best known originals. The sumptuous "Close To The Edge," majestic "Long Distance Runaround," Howe's impressive extended guitar solo and harmonies-bolstered "Don't Go" are among the many highlights on Symphonic Live. The concert roars to an incredible finish with a trio of the band's most beloved hits; the anthemic "I've Seen All Good People," crowd-pleasing rocker "Owner Of A Lonely Heart" and glorious "Roundabout."
The special edition reissue of Symphonic Live is packaged in a CD-sized clamshell box including the Blu-ray and two audio CDs, each housed in their own slipcase along with a booklet, folds out poster and five art cards. Additionally, the Blu-ray includes the promotional video for "Don't Go" and a 30-minute documentary ("Dreamtime"). While 25 years have passed since the Symphonic Live recording was captured, the power and precision of this performance is as powerful as ever.. Information: YesWorld.com and MercuryStudios.co.
Title: Visions In The Bowling Alley (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Big Audio Dynamite, New Order
Tell me more: The Jack Rubies' forthcoming album Visions In The Bowling Alley (set for release on Jan. 23 courtesy of Big Stir Records) marks another high mark for the celebrated UK postpunk quintet. The band returned from hiatus with the release of 2024's comeback album Clocks Are Out Of Time and continues to showcase its roaring blend of post-punk, '80s alt rock and power pop across the 12-track Visions In The Bowling Alley. The goth-tinged "Greedy," introspective "My Perceptron," genre-defying "Dead Man," haunting "Flying Machine," intoxicating '80s-minded rocker "This Is Not A Joke" and instantly infectious "Boat Rocker" are among the stellar cuts on the terrific album. Information: BigStirRecords.com.
Title: Deep Mud (Nola Blue Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Willie Dixon
Tell me more: The son of legendary blues great Muddy Waters, singer-songwriter/bassist Mud Morganfield is a strong proponent of traditional blues. On his 2025 major label debut album, Deep Mud, Morganfield conjures up Chicago blues across a stellar 14-track disc. Standouts on the album (recorded at JoyRide Studio in Chicago) include the infectious opener "Bring Me My Whiskey," blues-harp adorned "Big Frame Woman" (featuring the harmonica blasts of Studebaker John), the slow Chess Records-era Waters track "Strange Woman" (the latter a terrific showcase for Morganfield's rich baritone vocals and Rick Kreher's stylish guitar work), uptempo R&B gem "She's Getting Her Groove On," fiery aptly-pegged blues sortie "Strike Like Lightning," dance-minded "Carolina" and emotional closer "A Dream Walking." Information: nolabluerecords.com.
Robert Kinsler
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