Saturday, March 16, 2024

Blu-ray review: 'The Shootist [Limited Edition]' revisits John Wayne's final film with a myriad of features

Review by Robert Kinsler


Title: The Shootist [Limited Edition]

Details: A new high definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation of John Wayne's final film was released on March 12, 2024. The new 2K remaster by Arrow Films is taken from the original 35mm camera negative of the 1976 Western classic

MPAA rating: PG


Director:
Don Siegel

Actors: John Wayne, Lauren Bacall, Ron Howard, Scotsman Crothers, John Carradine, James Stewart

Run time: 100 minutes

Studio: Arrow Video

Tell me more: "I won't be wronged. I won't be insulted. I won't be laid a hand on. I don't do these things to other people and  require the same from them." Such is the motto of John Bernard Books, the central character played by actor John Wayne in director Don Siegel's beloved and brilliant 1976 film "The Shootist."

Wayne soars as both movie star and actor in "The Shootist," a marvelous cinematic adaption of author Glendon Swarthout's 1975 novel of the same name. Wayne's character is an aging gunfighter dying of cancer (Wayne himself was a cancer survivor at the time of the production and would die of stomach cancer on June 11, 1979), and his reputation among outlaws ultimately allows him to face death with the strength and courage that have marked his illustrious life.

John Wayne in "The Shootist"

The newly-released "The Shootist [Limited Edition]" Blu-ray provides film aficionados a chance to revisit and immerse themselves into this timeless classic. The picture quality and original lossless mono audio are excellent, allowing the viewer to be plunged into the poignant story and world of 1901.

Every member of the distinguished cast deliver powerful performances, collectively elevating the might of the film. Legendary actress Lauren Bacall, as well as a young Ron Howard and veteran greats James Stewart, Scotsman Crothers, John Carradine, Richard Boone, Sheree North and Henry Morgan are all outstanding. Siegel's signature direction and composer Elmer Bernstein's nuanced score further bolster the classic.

From left, John Wayne and James Stewart
in "The Shootist"


In addition to an outstanding print of the feature-length film, Arrow Video's limited edition Blu-ray of the movie is loaded with bonus features. For more information on this outstanding release, visit: https://mvdb2b.com/s/AV566


A list of bonus features is below: 


  • LIMITED EDITION CONTENTS

    • New 2K remaster by Arrow Films from the original 35mm camera negative

    • High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation

    • Original lossless mono audio

    • Optional English Subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing

    • Brand new audio commentary by filmmaker and critic Howard S. Berger

    • The Last Day, a new visual essay by film critic David Cairns

    • A Man-Making Moment, a new interview with Western author C. Courtney Joyner

    • Laments of the West, a new appreciation of Elmer Bernstein’s score by film historian and composer Neil Brand

    • Contemplating John Wayne: The Death of a Cowboy, a new visual essay by filmmaker and critic Scout Tafoya

    • The Shootist: The Legend Lives On, archival featurette

    • Theatrical trailer

    • Image gallery

    • Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Juan Esteban Rodríguez

    • Double-sided fold-out poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Juan Esteban Rodríguez

    • Six postcard-sized lobby card reproductions

    • Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing by film critic Philip Kemp


Tuesday, March 12, 2024

New music: The Rolling Stones, Gene Loves Jezebel, Bedsit Poets

In this column I review the latest titles featuring The Rolling StonesJay Aston's Gene Loves Jezebel and Bedsit Poets.



Artist:
 The Rolling Stones
Title: Live At The Wiltern (Mercury Studios)
You might like if you enjoy: The Rolling Stones, classic rock
Tell me more: For the countless millions of Rolling Stones fans who were not able to attend the band's intimate concert at The Wiltern in Los Angeles in late 2002, the good news is that the newly-released multi-format title Live At The Wiltern puts fans squarely amidst the action at the historic concert staged at the 2,000+ seat venue on Nov. 22, 2002. Available on DVD + 2CD, Blu-ray + 2CD (the latter reviewed here), 2CD and 3LP, the show captured the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers performing a mix of enduring favorites and inspired covers before an enthusiastic crowd that included the likes of Tom Petty, Neil Young, Sheryl Crow, Johnny Depp, Stephen Stills and Eddie Murphy. This was a night where singer Mick Jagger, drummer Charlie Watts, guitarists Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood rocked for two hours; the top-tier supporting cast included bassist Darryl Jones, keyboardist Chuck Leavell, saxophone great Bobby Keys, backing vocalist Lisa Fischer and many others  all smiling and genuinely having a blast. The energy level and joyous music making never falters across the concert; from the time the Stones take the stage and open with a powerful "Jumpin' Jack Flash" the audience is treated to the thrill of a lifetime. Some of my favorites include the rollicking "Neighbours" with Richards unleashing some Chuck Berry-styled lead guitar licks, a rowdy "Going To A Go-Go" featuring Keys' stellar sax playing, the rootsy "Thru And Thru" with Richards on lead vocals, and an emotional reading of the Chicago blues classic "Rock Me Baby." The extended "Can't You Hear Me Knocking" features Watts' rapid-fire work on his kit with virtuoso turns from Keys, Jagger on harmonica and Woods' dazzling lead guitar; the 20-track setlist also includes solid performances of "Honky Tonk Women," "Brown Sugar" and "Tumbling Dice." Another key reason to grab this release is the slew of rarely-performed gems including "Stray Cat Blues," "No Expectations" and a cover of "Everybody Needs Somebody To Love," the latter featuring guest soul singer Solomon BurkeThe physical package includes a wonderful 12-page booklet with detailed liner notes by Paul Sexton, as well as colorful photographs of the band members and more. Information: mercurystudios.co.


Artist:
 Jay Aston's Gene Loves Jezebel
Title: X - Love Death Sorrow (Cleopatra Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Church, The Cure, Gene Loves Jezebel
Tell me more: Jay Aston's Gene Loves Jezebel is back with X - Love Death Sorrow, the Welsh gothic rocker outfit's first studio album since 2017's Dance Underwater. The 12-track disc offers up a mix of original tracks as well as artful covers of material originally performed by Magazine, The Cure, Edwyn Collins and The Only Ones. Standouts on the outstanding return include the hypnotic opener "The Man That Time Forgot," soaring "Serpent Queen" featuring Aston's poignant lead and backing vocals, mood-swept ballad "I Breathe Easy," the enchanting "Young Girl," and captivating cover of Collins' 1994 hit "A Girl Like You." Particularly beautiful is the band's haunting version of the Robert Smith-penned "In Between Days." The stylish and strong work of James Stevenson (guitar), Peter "Bugs" Rizzo (bass, synthesizers), Smiley (drums, percussion) and album producer Peter Walsh (keyboards) impress across the masterwork. Jay Aston's Gene Loves Jezebel will embark on a U.S. tour with The Alarm and Belouis Some beginning May 1, 2024. Information: genelovesjezebel.co.uk or cleorecs.com.


Artist:
 Bedsit Poets
Title: All Roads Lead Me Back (Think Like A Key Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Leonard Cohen, Dead Can Dance, Edward Rogers, Amanda Thorpe, Rogers & Butler
Tell me more: All Roads Lead Me Back marks the third full-length album from Bedsit Poets, a collaboration between established solo artists Edward Rogers and Amanda Thorpe. The album opens with the lush "Come See About Me," a wonderful track blending folk, art rock and world music stylings into a luxurious sonic brew. Rogers and Thorpe have voices that ignite when heard alone and when heard coming together in harmony. Highlights include the beguiling dream pop original "London Town," spirited art folk rocker "Pelican Club," Celtic-flavored "Shadows Into Ashes," the Neo garage rocker "The Dark Night," jazzy "Never Had The Chance" and dazzling Baroque pop closer "December My Dear." Among the guests who contribute to the magic on All Roads Lead Me Back are guitarist James Mastro (Ian Hunter, John Cale), bassist Sal Maida (Roxy Music, Sparks) and drummer Konrad Meissner (Silos, Graham Parker). Information: Facebook.com/BedsitPoets/ and amazon.com.


Robert Kinsler

R.I.P. Eric Carmen



I am in shock. It has just been announced that Eric Carmen passed away over the weekend. I was a tremendous fan of singer-songwriter Carmen, and especially of his work with the Raspberries. In particular, I consider that band's "Go All the Way" one of my all-time favorite songs; in fact I discussed the song on a video episode of "Top 100 Songs of All Time" on TJR's popular YouTube channel you can view HERE. Other gems from that power pop band included "Overnight Sensation," "Tonight" and "Let's Pretend." His solo hits included "All By Myself" and "Hungry Eyes." Only 74, Carmen's death has been announced by his wife Amy Carmen. Read a wonderful appreciation of the artist written by John M. Borack HERE. Learn more about Carmen's life and passing HERE...Robert Kinler


Monday, March 11, 2024

R.I.P. Karl Wallinger

I was so sorry to hear this news moments ago. I was a big fan of Karl Wallinger's work with The Waterboys and World Party...Robert Kinsler

Karl Wallinger, the Welsh-born musician and composer better known as the singular force behind World Party, died Sunday March 10. Presciently ahead of his time with songs such as “Ship Of Fools”, “Put The Message In The Box” and "Is It Like Today?", in addition to the magic of “She’s The One” and the Waterboys' “Whole Of The Moon”, Wallinger was 66.


Karl leaves behind a loving family including wife Suzie Zamit, son Louis Wallinger, daughter Nancy Zamit and two grandchildren. The family invites Karl’s friends and fans to share their thoughts on his Facebook page or Instagram.

Karl Wallinger image courtesy of World Party

Rick Estrin & The Nightcats set to return with 'The Hits Keep Coming' on May 10, 2024

 Alligator Records has just announced the release of Rick Estrin & The Nightcats forthcoming new album "The Hits Keep Coming" on May 10 and check out the wonderful new advance track "The Circus Is Still In Town." (On a related note, read my review of the troupe's wonderful 2017 disc "Groovin' In Greaseland" HERE)...Robert Kinsler


Rick Estrin & The Nightcats / photo credit: Steve Jennings


RICK ESTRIN & THE NIGHTCATS TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM, THE HITS KEEP COMING, ON MAY 10, 2024

First Album In Almost Five Years From "The Best Band Anywhere" (DownBeat)

Lyric Video For New Song, The Circus Is Still In Town, Premieres Today

This band is the best in the land…superior songwriting infused with wit, humor, and streetwise insights, traditional and adventurous grooves, impeccable musicianship, creative arrangements, harmonica tutorials and savvy production…funky and original…always fresh and vital.”
–Blues Music Magazine 
 
Rick Estrin & The Nightcats are a formidable force. They sound better than ever [playing] stellar rockabilly, jazz, blues and rock, often in the same song, creating a unique, time-tested sound rooted in the past, bolstered by harpist/vocalist Estrin’s time-warping original compositions.”
–No Depression 
 
“Estrin defines his own brand of hip. Original blues and vintage rock-style tunes also harbor his superb harmonica work. Estrin emotes with just the right mix of kitsch and sincerity. The current litter of ‘Cats, including guitarist Kid Andersen, reigns as the best band anywhere.
–DownBeat
 
Rick Estrin & The Nightcats are America’s greatest musical showmen…foot-stomping, wise-cracking contemporary songs, a combination of rockabilly, jazz, blues, rock, and big band swing. Estrin is a world class musician…the most colorful and entertaining showman around.”
–Forbes 
On Friday, May 10, 2024, Alligator Records will release The Hits Keep Coming, the long-awaited new album from award-winning, modern blues legends Rick Estrin & The NightcatsThe Hits Keep Coming, the band's sixth release, packs a powerful punch, with phenomenal musicianship and streetwise lyrics—both serious and humorous. Vocalist, harmonica master and songwriter Estrin, along with multi-instrumentalist/musical mastermind/producer Christoffer “Kid” Andersen, keyboardist/organ wizard/bassman Lorenzo Farrell and endlessly creative drummer Derrick “D’Mar” Martin, have created what Estrin calls, "the best music we've ever made together. This band is killer. I’m enjoying this all more than ever,” says the man who’s been performing and recording professionally since the early 1970s. “It’s a blessing—there’s so much energy, so much collaboration. The band is just so good right now. And the live show is off the charts.”

The first song released from The Hits Keep Coming is an album highlight, The Circus Is Still In Town. The musically rambunctious, lyrically harrowing song premieres today on all major streaming services and also via a new video. According to Estrin, "This one's special to me. It's got a catchy hook, an infectious groove, and ironically, some grim subject matter."
RICK ESTRIN & THE NIGHTCATS -- The Circus Is Still In Town
From THE HITS KEEP COMING, Full Album Out on May 10, 2024
 
Video By Josh Lindner
Produced by Andersen at his legendary Greaseland USA studio in San Jose, California, the album captures the band’s chemistry and magic in what is certainly among their strongest and most urgent releases so far. The Hits Keep Coming is modern blues at its most potent, intense and fun in all the right places, as Rick Estrin & The Nightcats deliver twelve groove-heavy, hard-hitting songs, including ten written or co-written by Estrin and two surprising covers (one obscurity from Muddy Waters, one from Leonard Cohen that Estrin would have liked to have written). From the foot-stomping opener Somewhere Else, to the stark reality of the title track (with backing vocals by The Sons Of The Soul Revivers), The Hits Keep Coming is a lyrical and musical tour-de-force.  

In addition to Estrin’s celebrated songwriting and peerless blues harmonica playing, he and the band are among the most entertaining and colorful showmen around. Estrin’s signature streetwise vocals and hipster-cool look, Andersen’s eye-popping, off-the-cuff guitar pyrotechnics, Farrell’s mighty organ, piano and bass work and D’Mar’s dynamic, acrobatic drumming make every one of their live performances a must-see event.

Over the years, Estrin has won a total of seven Blues Music Awards, including awards for Song Of The Year, Traditional Male Blues Artist, Instrumentalist—Harmonica, and twice, the prestigious Band Of The Year (for Rick Estrin & The Nightcats). The band has performed at festivals and concert stages from San Francisco to Chicago to New York, and everywhere in between. They've toured extensively in almost every country in Europe, as well as in Australia, Turkey, Russia and South America.

“People don’t go out to see people who look like themselves,” says Estrin. “They want to see something special. I was schooled in this business to be a showman, and that’s what you get when you come to see us perform. We know how to put on a show. I feel sorry for anyone who has to follow us.”

The Chicago Sun-Times declares, “These are serious musicians having a hotter than hot good time. It’s tough to stay in your seat when Estrin and his musical cohorts get cooking.” As No Depression says, “This is a band that always delivers the goods.” 

Friday, March 08, 2024

New Music: The Who, Jack Rubies, Chris Stamey

The latest audio releases featuring The Who, Jack Rubies and Chris Stamey are available now.






Artist:
 The Who
Title: Live At Shea Stadium 1982 (Record label)
You might like if you enjoy: The Who, Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend
Tell me more: The Who's 1982 tour was memorable for a number of reasons; notably it was the last to feature drummer Kenney Jones and would also mark the British band's last full scale tour until 1989. Now a marvelous live recording of The Who's complete Oct. 13, 1982 performance captured on the second of two nights at New York's Shea Stadium has been released on audio CD and 3LP vinyl (Live At She Stadium 1982). Among the stellar versions of Who classics performed by singer Roger Daltrey, guitarist Pete Townshend, bassist John Entwistle, keyboardist Tim Gorman and aforementioned Jones are the rousing "I Can't Explain," lively artfully reworked "Sister Disco," fiery "Baba O'Riley" and "Who Are You," stirring "Love Reign o'er Me," thrilling "Won't Get Fooled Again." Because The Who was touring in the wake of the band's tenth studio album It's Hard (released a mere month before the Shea Stadium show date), this tour provided the first chance to hear live performances of cuts from that masterwork; an inspired version of the John Entwistle-penned "Dangerous" and rousing take on "It's Hard" are early standouts on the concert recording while "Eminence Front" is heard via a marathon performance that is especially moving in its power. The concert closes with fully reworked covers of The Beatles' "I Saw Her Standing There," Eddie Cochran's "Summertime Blues" and the 1962 Isley Brothers' hit "Twist and Shout" that collectively celebrate the power of rock 'n' roll. Insightful liner notes from Chris Roberts also provide additional depth on The Who and the band's 1982 performance. Information: MercuryStudios.co.


Artist:
 Jack Rubies
Title: Clocks Are Out Of Time (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The The, Nick Cave, Interpol, Blur
Tell me more: Reunited English quintet Jack Rubies are back with Clocks Are Out Of Time, the band's first new album in more than 30 years. The band's original lineup of Ian Wright (lead vocals, guitar), SD Ineson (backing vocals, guitar), Steve Brockway (bass), Lawrence Giltnane (percussion) and Peter Maxted (drums, and the album's producer) have created a unique soundscape that fuses 1990s Britpop with contemporary indie rock into something that is their own. So many standouts propel the 12-track album across its full span, delighting the listener with undeniable hooks, a kaleidoscope of sonic moods and genuine surprises. The bewitching opener "Hark," driving hypnotic rocker "Heaven Shook Me," dreamy "Hidey Hole," tuneful "Chandelier," playful "Poltergeist," exhilarating "Read My Mind," edgy "Shark Attack" and dazzling closer "I'll Give You More" all cast their power with a single listen. And the album's sumptuous reach only deepens with each subsequent listen. Information: bigstirrecords.com.


Artist:
 Chris Stamey
Title: ...The Great Escape (Schoolkids Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The dB's, Big Star, Richard X. Heyman, the Jayhawks
Tell me more: Fans of melodic and intelligent songcraft will want to grab Chris Stamey's wonderful new album ...The Great Escape. The 13-track disc album was written, recorded and produced by Stamey at Modern Recording in North Carolina and displays a masterful touch that shines across the disc. While the album revisits the soundscape Stamey explored on his classic 1987 and 1991 solo records (It's Alright and Fireworks, respectively) and 2004's Travels in the South), there is an additional and delightful Flying Burrito Brothers-meets-Jayhawks Americana spin to the selections. Loaded with melodic rock nuggets, the album features a slew of great tracks including the alt country-tinged opener "The Great Escape," shimmering "Realize," tender "She Might Look My Way" (the latter a cover of a lost classic co-written by Alex Chilton and Tommy Hoehn), Beach Boys flavored "I Will Try," jazzy "Back in New York" and prog rock mining pop gem "The Catherine's Wheel." Among the notable high-profile guests who join Stamey on the album are Peter Holsapple (organ), Don Dixon (acoustic bass), Mitch Easter (drums), as well as Eric Heywood  and Allyn Love (pedal steel).  Information: schoolkidsrecords.com.


Robert Kinsler


Billy Idol to celebrate 40TH Anniversary of landmark album 'Rebel Yell' with Deluxe Expanded Edition due April 26 via UMe

Check out the latest news on Billy Idol. The legendary rocker's outstanding "Rebel Yell" will be reissued via an expanded deluxe edition next month...Robert Kinsler