Burt Bacharach remembered; Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announces nominees

Burt Bacharach performing on an
ABC television special in 1972.

At first glance, the Feb. 1 announcement of 14 nominees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2023 and passing of legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach on Feb. 8 would seem to have little in common.

Having written a slew of timeless classics — and seen his songs recorded by the diverse likes of the Beatles, Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Elvis Costello, the White Stripes, Love, Perry Como, Cilla Black, Stevie Wonder and Rod Stewart —  the 94-year-old Bacharach has still not yet been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

But this writer —  having had the good fortune to cover a concert featuring Bacharach and Warwick when they were still at the height of their artistic powers —  believes Bacharach will rank alongside Paul McCartney, Brian Wilson, Donald Fagen and Elvis Costello as one of the great sophisticated songwriters of the 20th century. His passing is also a jab at the Hall of Fame to consider the influence of artists on other musical greats as a key element in the consideration of nominees.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Speaking of the Hall of Fame, the following artists are nominated to be inducted later this year: groundbreaking British songstress Kate Bush; contemporary hitmaker Sheryl Crow; hip-hop icon Missy Elliott; heavy metal pioneers Iron Maiden; tandem alternative rock outfits Joy Division/New Order; singer Cyndi Lauper; pop singer George Michael; outlaw country music great Willie Nelson; rap-metal giants Rage Against the Machine; Seattle grunge champions Soundgarden; rhythm and blues vocal group The Spinners; American hip hop group A Tribe Called Quest; Detroit garage rock revivalists the White Stripes; and American singer-songwriter-musician Warren Zevon.

I am hopeful some of the more veteran artists in that field will be be announced as as the top names in May, and subsequently inducted in fall 2023. Here are the six artists I feel are most deserving of induction.

Kate Bush — Far better known in her native England than in the U.S., Kate Bush has nonetheless found growing acclaim here in recent years — thanks in no small part to her marvelous 1985 single "Running Up That Hill" gaining renewed popularity in May 2022 after it was featured in the plot of the fourth season of the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things." Other great Bush originals include "Cloudbusting," "Don't Give Up" (a duet with Peter Gabriel), "The Man with the Child in His Eyes" and "Babooshka." Her debut single "Wuthering Heights" released in 1978 when she was only 19, marked the first time a female artist had a number 1 hit on the UK Singles Chart with a self-written song.

Iron Maiden — Founded in 1975, English heavy metal heroes have released more than 40 albums. Beginning in the early 1980s, the band released a series of Platinum and Gold albums; the critically-acclaimed 1982 LP The Number of the Beast is among the most acclaimed heavy metal albums of all time and has reportedly sold more than 20 million copies. 

Joy Division/New Order — One of the smartest decisions by the selection committee was to nominate Joy Division and New Order together. Joy Division was an English rock group comprised of lead vocalist Ian Curtis, guitarist/keyboardist Bernard Sumner, bassist Peter Hook and drummer Stephen Morris. The group pioneered a melancholy-wrapped style of sparse recordings that made them one of the most influential alternative rockers to emerge in the late 1970s. Sadly, Curtist struggled with a number of health and mental issues; the committed suicide at the age of 23 in May 1980. Later that year, the remaining members regrouped as New Order and went on to find enduring fame with their original mix of electronica and dance music. 

Willie Nelson — Like the late Johnny Cash, 2023 nominee Willie Nelson brings a legacy beyond his parade of celebrated outlaw country albums (Shotgun Willie, Red Headed Stranger, Stardust, etc.). The rare country artist to appear on the main stage at Coachella, Nelson has acted in more than 30 films, co-authored several books and has a signature guitar style as distinctive as his voice. It would be wonderful to see Nelson — who celebrates his 90th birthday on April 29 — be inducted into the Rock Hall.

The Spinners — Formed in Ferndale, Michigan in 1954, The Spinners scored a number of timeless hits during the 1960s and 1970s. Among their biggest hits was "I'll Be Around," "I'm Coming Home," "Then Came You" (the latter a collaboration with Dionne Warwick) and "The Rubberband Man."

Warren Zevon — Since passing away at the age of 56 in September 2003, Warren Zevon's legacy has only grown. A unique artist widely celebrated for his "dry wit and acerbic lyrics," the Chicago, Illinois native's most well-known songs include "Werewolves of London," "Lawyers, Guns and Money" and "Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner." He also wrote the Linda Ronstadt 1978 hit "Poor Poor Pitiful Me." Of all this year's nominees, I am rooting hardest for the induction of this singularly unique artist.

Robert Kinsler

Burt Bacharach remembered: Statement from Dionne Warwick regarding the legendary singer-songwriter/composer

I was so sad to hear of the passing of Burt Bacharach; he passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023. Many years ago, I was asked by The Orange County Register to review a concert in Long Beach, CA featuring Bacharach and singer Dionne Warwick. My wife and I were amazed at the power of the songs and emotion of the night...Robert Kinsler

STATEMENT FROM DIONNE WARWICK

REGARDING BURT BACHARACH

“Burt’s transition is like losing a family member. These words I’ve been asked to write are being written with sadness over the loss of my Dear Friend and my Musical Partner. On the lighter side we laughed a lot and had our run ins, but always found a way to let each other know our family, like roots, were the most important part of our relationship. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, letting them know he is now peacefully resting and I too will miss him.”

Dionne Warwick, February 9^th, 2023

Respectfully shared,

Angelo Ellerbee

Double XXposure Media Relations

Recommended Releases: Crowded House, Mumps, Wolf Alice, Richard Blade's 'Imposters'

Three fantastic new audio titles and a must-read music-minded tale from famed DJ/author Richard Blade are featured in my column this week. 

Artist: Crowded House

Title: Dreamers Are Waiting (BMG)

You might like if you enjoy: Crowded House, Del Amitri, Paul McCartney, Neil Finn

Tell me more: One of rock's great genuine treasures, Crowded House is back with Dreamers Are Waiting. The Australian outfit's first new album since 2010's Intriguer, the new 12-track collection equals the strength of their previous recordings stretching back to their 1986 eponymous-titled debut. Singer-songwriter Neil Finn and company have crafted a collection that is as tuneful as it is impactful. The driving electronica-tinged "Whatever You Want" tackles human nature with the precision of a surgeon's knife; the melodic bounce comes in the service of Finn's wit: "The people will tell you whatever you want...Every night and every day / Some will fall upon their swords in order that / They might serve the greater good / But don't believe a word of it." The yearning melodic rocker "Playing With Fire" is infectious to be sure, but it is Finn's soulful lead vocals, the surrounding Burt Bacharach-mining harmony touches and bold horn section-bolstered arrangement that collectively make for something extra special. The dreamy expanse of "Bad Times Good," "Show Me The Way" and "Goodnight Everyone" reveal the rich diversity of Crowded House's approach. The lovely "Start of Something" – with its rich harmonies – recalls the magic of the Beach Boys' late-60s discography but laced with a modern touch. The soulful "Real Life Woman," animated "Love Isn't Hard At All" and mischievous "To The Island" are among the other gems on the essential set. Information: CrowdedHouse.com.

Artist: Mumps

Title: Rock & Roll This, Rock & Roll That: Best Case Scenario, You've Got Mumps (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: '70s punk and glam rock, Sparks, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" soundtrack

Tell me more: Led by front man Lance Loud, Mumps were a cutting edge 1970s punk rock band that was among the first to play at the legendary CBGB in New York City. Also regulars at Max's Kansas City, Mumps shared the bill with Talking Heads, the Ramones, Television, Cheap Trick, The Cramps, Blondie and even Van Halen (the latter at the Whisky-a-Go-Go in West Hollywood) during the band's seven-year run. Sadly, Mumps only released two singles before disbanding (1977's "I Like To Be Clean" on Bomp! Records and "Rock & Roll This, Rock & Roll That" on Perfect Records in 1978). The legacy of Mumps gets a well-deserved boost courtesy of Omnivore Recordings on the excellent Rock & Roll This, Rock & Roll That: Best Case Scenario, You've Got Mumps; the 23-track collection includes two previously unissued tracks and a number of bonus tracks (notably two previously-unissued songs from the pre-Mumps band Loud). Mumps' infectious sound and spirited approach shines brightly on the set; the ska-tinged "Just Look, Don't Touch," crunchy "Crocodile Tears," punk rocker "We Ended Up" and lively "Rock & Roll This, Rock & Roll That" are among my faves. The package includes a 16-page illustrated booklet featuring liner notes from Mumps members Kristian Hoffman (keyboards), Joe Katz (bass) and Paul Rutner (drums) as well as Lance Loud's mother Pat Loud. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Wolf Alice

Title: Blue Weekend (Dirty Hit/RCA Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Chvrches, Billie Eilish, Florence + The Machine

Tell me more: London quartet Wolf Alice are back with Blue Weekend, their third full-length LP and a strong follow-up to their acclaimed 2017 disc Visions of a Life (which won the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2018). The vast soundscape includes the arresting opener "The Beach," expansive dream pop of Delicious Things," luxurious "Lipstick On The Glass" driving modern rocker "Smile," lovely "Safe From Heartbreak (if you never fall in love)" and punk rocker "Play The Greatest Hits." Ellie Rowsell's affecting vocals are particularly dynamic on the genre-blending "The Last Man On Earth," unguarded "How Can I Make It Ok?" and electronic foray "Feeling Myself." In addition to Rowsell (vocals, guitar), Wolf Alice includes Joff Oddie (guitar, vocals), Theo Ellis (bass) and Joel Amey (drums, vocals). Wolf Alice will be headlining a U.S. tour in fall of 2021, including several dates in Los Angeles in late October. Information: wolfalice.co.uk.

Title: Imposters: Two Boys Who Fooled America

Author: Richard Blade

Publisher: BladeRocker Books

Details: 298 pages

Tell me more: Audiences know him best for his work on radio, television and in movies, but Richard Blade is also a talented author who has penned an acclaimed best-selling autobiography (2017's "World In My Eyes") and several successful novels (2019's "SPQR" and 2020's "Birthright"). Now comes "Imposters: Two Boys Who Fooled America," a fast-paced real life yarn that fuses the excitement of '60s rock and roll with the political turmoil of that decade into a captivating story this reader couldn't put down. In 1966, two teenage boys from Southern California suddenly became the target of an unwarranted manhunt by the FBI. They successfully eluded the law by assuming the identity of a best-selling duo from the 1950s and embarked on the adventure of a lifetime. Although the story is true, Blade embellishes the saga and characters in ways that appear fully authentic while fully immersing the reader in a myriad of unlikely situations where the protagonists find themselves across their three-year adventure. Blade's lively writing style coupled with a truly incredible story of teens forced to grow into men while on the run plays out amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War, political assassinations, protests and some of the greatest rock music of all time. Information: amazon.com.

Robert Kinsler

Originality mined on new releases

A highly-anticipated return by Two Door Cinema Club, as well as a number of stellar independent albums and EPs make for a strong field of new releases.

Artist: Two Door Cinema Club
Title: False Alarm (Glassnote Records)
You might like if you enjoy: A R I Z O N A, Duran Duran, Neon Trees
Tell me more: On their newly-issued fourth studio album False Alarm, Northern Irish trio Two Door Cinema Club has once again unleashed an irresistible batch of great originals blending pop, indie rock, electronica and neo-disco dance music. A casual listener is likely lured in by the catchy beats and glorious choruses, but there is plenty of textured and luxurious creativity enhancing the 10 tracks on the set. Singer-guitarist Alex Trimble, lead guitarist Sam Halliday and bassist-synths player Kevin Baird have joined forces with producer Jacknife Lee (U2, R.E.M., The Killers) to push the boundaries of Two Door Cinema Club's sound to new frontiers. "Talk" is a dance floor-meets-electronica gem; "So Many People" offers up a nuanced R&B soundscape. The driving electronica cut "Dirty Air" is undeniable; the robotic "Satellite" harkens back to '80s New Wave but exudes a bright sheen that defies its retro roots. The disco-flavored "Nice To See You" is bolstered by hip hop artist Open Mike Eagle; the explosive "Already Gone" closes out the terrific LP. Information: twodoorcinemaclub.com.

Artist: Farrington
Title: Pictures of Pretty Things (Magic Stone Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Jeff Lynne's ELO, Queen, David Bowie
Tell me more: Farrington's debut album Pictures of Pretty Things is both ambitious and melodic, drawing positive comparisons with notable recordings from Badfinger, Electric Light Orchestra, Queen and Cheap Trick. Farrington — the moniker for tunesmith/singer/multi-instrumentalist James Patrick — and a super-talented group of surrounding players (including guitarist-bassist Anthony King, vocalist Nikki Paige, drummer Marcos de la Cruz and backing vocalist Kai Danzberg) have crafted a memorable disc that is rooted in the past while also striking a claim in the here and now via inventive songcraft and bona fide power. Standouts abound on the 14-track masterwork; the shimmer of "Blue," pulsating piano-anchored "Stupid Plastic War" and the Bowiesque "Maybe If You Leave Her" impress with a single listen. The glam punk-styled "Long Way to Nowhere," tuneful "Long Way to Nowhere" and "When I Was You, and the tender ballad "The Love Show" showcase an artist able to create musical magic at every turn. When Farrington sings "Music Is The Drug" who would dare argue? Information: https://farington.hearnow.com.

Artist: R. Scott
Title: Flashpoint (R. Scott)
You might like if you enjoy: John Carrillo, Paul Williams, R. Stevie Moore
Tell me more: Over the years some of my favorite albums have been released by independent artists, notably Michael Ubaldini, Bright Blue Gorilla and Psychic Rain. Southern California-based singer-songwriter/pianist R. Scott has impressed me over the years with a unique voice and original approach at capturing the world around him and bringing it into song. On his newly-issued EP Flashpoint he once again proves there is plenty to celebrate. The fast-moving five songs that comprise Flashpoint include the opening gem, "Time Of Our Lives," which could have been penned by Burt Bacharach. The disc's additional delights include the confessional "Wishful Thinking," Celtic-tinged "I Can't Recall" and emotive "Come Alive." As R. Scott notes on his website: "This EP is about getting through our modern day madness, the moments that shape our lives and holding on to the things we hold dear." Information: www.rspianoman.com.

Artist: Yes Gabriel
Title: Yes Gabriel (Yes Gabriel)
You might like if you enjoy: Guster, the Finn Brothers, Pugwash
Tell me more: An introspective and intimate release, veteran musical theater composer Gaby Alter's Yes Gabriel is an impressive debut much larger than the five tracks that comprise the eponymous effort. Fans of a wide range of artists (notably Ron Sexsmith, Guster, Nick Drake and the Morning Phase version of Beck) will all find something to love on this striking collection, which is marked by top-tier lyrics and rich musical layers that enhance each of the songs. Recorded over five years, Yes Gabriel is a perfect blend of indie folk and chamber pop as evidenced by the probing "Dear To Me," wistful "Fall Asleep" and lovely "You Got Through." Information: YesGabriel.com.


Robert Kinsler

Robert Kinsler's Favorite New Albums of 2018

As many of you know, I have long given up trying to rank my favorite albums of the year; I prefer to list my favorite titles alphabetically by artist and don't necessarily restrict myself to a "Top 10" if there is a greater number deserving of the attention. This list features my favorite 18 studio album releases of 2018. Click here to see a list of my favorite deluxe reissues/special editions/live releases of 2018...

Artist: Bird Streets
Title: Bird Streets (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist wonders John Brodeur and Jason Falkner have joined forces as Bird Streets. Just listening to the pair's eponymous 11-track disc is to be awed by the power of song craft, virtuoso musicianship and creative give and take. The shimmering "Betting On The Sun" impresses with a fusion of strong melody, probing lyrics and a soundscape that thrives on vocal layers, immersive guitars and a unifying rhythm. The ambitious "Stop To Breathe" builds to a swirling climax, with multiple guitar lines that thrill even in the fade out. The tuneful Americana-tinged power pop "Same Dream" is a driving nugget, avoiding cliche while soaring to tuneful heights. On the beautiful "Spaceship" Brodeur's affecting vocals explore life's disappointments with artful candor. Bird Street was produced by Falkner, and features 11 tracks written and performed by Brodeur (in conjunction with Falkner); the disc also features guest appearances by Miranda Lee Richards and Luther Russell (The Freewheelers, Those Pretty Wrongs). Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Rosanne Cash
Title: She Remembers Everything (Blue Note)
Tell me more: Songstress Rosanne Cash released the deeply-affecting She Remembers Everything on Nov. 2. The album – the artist's first new LP in nearly five years – allows one of today's most gifted female singer-songwriters to probe the continuing challenges women have in the 21st century. Indeed, Cash's 10-track disc is a powerful and revealing exploration of the experience of women highlighted in a number of roles vividly described in songs that are both lyrically literate and musically beautiful. As if Cash's talents and insight weren't formidable enough, she is joined by the illustrious likes of Kris Kristofferson and Elvis Presley (the two share lead vocals with Cash on the wonderful "Gods of Harlem"), Colin Meloy (of the Decemberists) and Sam Phillips on the brilliant album. Information: RoseanneCash.com.

Artist: Elvis Costello & The Imposters
Title: "Look Now" / Deluxe Edition (Concord Records)
Tell me more: Who knew Elvis Costello & The Imposters would be back and release one of the best albums of 2018? The proof comes via the glorious Look Now, Costello's first new album in five years (Wise Up Ghost, a collaboration with the Roots, was released in September 2013). Look Now most closely recalls Costello's 1982 Geoff Emerick-produced gem Imperial Bedroom and his masterful baroque pop collaboration with Burt Bacharach, 1998's Painted from Memory. Indeed, Bacharach has co-written and added his piano talents on several tracks on "Look Now," including the stirring title track and the poignant "Photographs Can Lie" (the latter featuring some of Costello's most affecting vocals in memory); elsewhere there are echoes of Memphis soul (the rousing "Burnt Sugar is So Bitter," a song he co-wrote with Carole King back in the '90s), Springsteen "Burn to Run"-era rock ("Unwanted Number") and even Philadelphia soul ("Suspect My Tears"). "Look Now" is co-produced by Costello and five-time Grammy winner Sebastian Krys. The stellar collection also proves to be an outstanding celebration of The Imposters (Steve Nieve, drummer Pete Thomas and bassist Davey Faragher). The Deluxe Edition of Look Now expands the standard LP with four additional gems including the lovely "Isabelle in Tears," French language "Adieu Paris (L'Envie Des Etoiles)" and tender "Final Mrs. Curtain." If you have not picked up "Look Now" yet, get the Deluxe Edition. Information: ElvisCostello.com.

Artist: The Fallen Stars
Title: Leaves on the Wind — Vol. 3: Can't Take The Sky From Me (Kiss My Squirrel Music)
Tell me more: When Firefly first aired on the Fox network in September 2002, it immediately captured the attention of discerning fans (now known as "Browncoats") of science fiction with its unique cast of authentic characters, blend of outer space and Western landscapes, and sharp storytelling. Although the Joss Whedon-created series was cancelled after a mere 14 episodes, the influence of the series was profound (indeed the film "Serenity" was released in 2005 to critical acclaim). Look no further than the Fallen Stars' compelling trilogy titled Leaves on the Wind, with Vol. 3: Can't Take The Sky From Me having been released in 2018. On volume 3 of Leaves on the Wind, musical duo Bobbo and Tracy Byrnes have crafted songs inspired by the final four episodes of "Firefly," as well as offering up their emotive take on Whedon's theme song for the series ("The Ballad of Serenity"). Fans of the first two "Leaves on the Wind" titles will pleased that "Can't Take The Sky From Me" is the equal with its Americana-styled songs capturing the magic of the series in song. The countrified rocker "Naked" serves as a duet for Tracy and Bobbo, whose voices shine alone or together in the spirited choruses. "Carry Me" is especially poignant, with an acoustic flavor and sweet melody that plays out in the verses and choruses. The rollicking "Home" and yearning "Here I Am" also capture the creative power of the groundbreaking sci-fi series. Information: thefallenstars.com.

Artist: First Aid Kit
Title: Ruins (Columbia)
Tell me more: The world's most amazing young Americana group is actually a duo from Sweden. Comprised of sisters Klara and Johanna Söderberg, First Aid Kit released one of the first epic albums of 2018, the masterful Ruins. The siblings each have exceptional voices that soar alone but when blended together the results are never less than otherworldly. Take the first song "Rebel Heart," – locked together across the intoxicating verses and choruses there is one section leading to a break where timbre of their voices mirror each other via an extended note that is simply dazzling. On the introspective "It's A Shame," their sopranos cascade amidst a sonic backdrop of electric guitar (courtesy of R.E.M.'s Peter Buck), pedal steel, percussion and a sublime mix of piano and organ - the song's nuanced finale has their voices dropping low against light acoustic guitar. Other songs that impress powerfully include the melancholy-laced "Fireworks," countrified "Postcard" and yearning "Distant Star." The lyrics across the disc are gloriously literate as well, solidifying the substantial might of this 10-song release. Information: www.FirstAidKitBand.com.

Artist: Gorillaz
Title: The Now Now (Warner Bros./Parlophone)
Tell me more: On the brilliant 2018 Gorillaz release The Now Now, singer-songwriter Damon Albarn has essentially followed up his 2014 release Everyday Robots with a sequel of sorts; the disc is intoxicating musically even while offering a lyrically-impactful search for finding one's self in a world - America in particular — where people seem to be more alone than ever. Whereas 2017's Gorillaz return Humanz was packed with all-star guests ranging from Mavis Staples and Grace Jones to Popcaan across the track listing, The Now Now is a decidedly more intimate and stronger affair. A soundscape paved with cool beats, retro synths and grooves surrounding Albarn's signature vocals, the 11-track disc includes the breezy "Humility" (featuring jazz guitarist George Benson's shining fretwork), the '80s-mining "Tranz," infectious "Lake Zurich," distant "Magic City" (complete with Blur guitarist Graham Coxon's flourishes) and the enthralling "One Percent." Information: gorillaz.com.

Artist: The Jayhawks
Title: Back Roads and Abandoned Motels (Legacy Recordings)
Tell me more: Fresh off their role backing legendary Ray Davies on his Our Country: Americana Act II, the Jayhawks have released their own brilliant masterwork titled Back Roads and Abandoned Motels. Anyone who has admired any of the Twin Cities-spawned troupe's previous albums issued across the past three decades will want to get a listen of this outstanding LP. The album opens with the Memphis-styled soul of "Come Cryin' to Me," featuring the shining vocals of band keyboardist Karen Grotberg (whose voice draws strong comparisons with Roseanne Cash). That song was co-penned by Jayhawks frontman Gary Louris and members of the Dixie Chicks and was first featured on Natalie Maines' 2013 release Mother — this version outdistances that recording in spades. The rest of the album is just strong, with band drummer Tim O'Reagan singing several tracks (including the acoustic-flavored "Long Time Ago") and Louris offering up his signature vocals across most of the disc. Outstanding song craft, lush vocal harmonies and creative arrangements are everywhere. The instantly-infectious alt-country rocker "Everybody Knows," melodic "Backwards Women," romantic "Need You Tonight" and acoustic nugget "Bird Never Flies" are among this writer's favorite songs on Back Roads and Abandoned Motels. As if the album wasn't impressive enough, all 11 tracks were recorded in just two sessions. Amazing. Information: jayhawksofficial.com.

Artist: Paul Kelly
Title: Nature (Cooking Vinyl)
Tell me more: Paul Kelly's new LP combines poetry from five literary masters (Dylan Thomas, Walt Whitman, Sylvia Plath, Gerard Manley Hopkins and Phillip Larkin) as well as his own prose with a shared theme reflecting the disc's title Nature. The songcraft is as glorious as the verse with a diverse soundscape encompassing folk rock (the propulsive "With the One I Love"), Celtic-tinged folk ("And Death Shall Have No Dominion," "A Bastard Like Me"), baroque pop ("The River Song") and Americana ("Little Wolf," "Morning Storm," "The Trees"). The lush neo-classical "Bound to Follow (Aisling Song)" features soprano Kate Miller-Heidke and further captures the exhilarating spirit of this special project that simultaneously and magically celebrates the power of poetry, song and the natural world. Information: PaulKelly.com.au.

Artist: Johnny Marr
Title: Call the Comet (New Voodoo Records)
Tell me more: Since the breakup of The Smiths in 1987 guitarist Johnny Marr has carved out a wide-ranging path performing with everyone from The The and the Pretenders to Modest Mouse, Talking Heads and even famed composer Hans Zimmer! But the most astounding ripple in Marr's incredible journey has been a solo career launched with 2013's The Messenger. That album, as well as 2014's Playland and 2015's live import Adrenalin Baby, have rapidly established Marr as one of this decade's most exciting rock artists. On June 15, 2018, Marr released his third studio album Call the Comet, and the 12-song set offers definitive proof that while Marr's signature guitar work put him on the map his elevated songcraft and top-tier vocals guarantee listeners will be swept away and immersed across "Call the Comet." The disc's track listing shines from start to finish, with the spacious "Rise," evocative "Hi Hello," hypnotic "A Different Gun" and breathtaking "Walk Into the Sea" among the awe-inspiring songs. Information: JohnnyMarr.com.

Artist: The Monkees
Title: Christmas Party (Rhino Records)
Tell me more: Capturing the magic of the Monkees' most beloved recordings of the 1960s and fusing that with the energy of contemporary power pop, Christmas Party features a mix of classic seasonal favorites, artful remakes and newly-penned songs that make for one of the most inviting sets of the season. Gems fill this sparkling collection; the Andy Partridge-penned "Unwrap You At Christmas" is bolstered by a sweet string section and soaring vocals from Micky Dolenz. Michael Nesmith's affecting vocals add just the right moodscape to a wistful cover of Mel Torme's "The Christmas Song." A shimmering cover of the Alex Chilton-penned Big Star classic "Jesus Christ" and lush version of Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime" are reworked enough to make them essential. Several of the late Davy Jones' vocal tracks are used on the disc, including a lovely "Silver Bells." Peter Tork uses his rich baritone and skills on the banjo in a poignant Americana-styled version of "Angels We Have Heard On High." Among this writer's favorite tracks are the instantly-infectious "What Would Santa Do," a melodic rocker written by Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo that takes a playful swipe at those who can't get into the Christmas spirit; "House of Broken Gingerbread" is another killer new cut (this one penned by album producer Adam Schlesinger and Michael Chabon), a potent and tuneful modern rocker. Information: monkees.com.

Artist: Old 97's
Title: Love The Holidays (ATO Records)
Tell me more: The members of Old 97's truly do "love the holidays" and created the wildly spirited Christmas album in 2018 to prove it. The majority of songs on the 14-track Love The Holidays are original and fully capture the freewheeling spirit of the Texas-spawned band. The rollicking title track "Love The Holidays," '60s-flavored "I Believe in Santa Claus," cowpunk-tinged alt rocker "Gotta Love Being A Kid" and beautiful countrified folk nugget "Snow Angels" are early standouts on the disc. The world's most famous reindeer gets a new musical chapter courtesy of the colorful "Rudolph Was Blue." The reworked versions of traditional material such as "Auld Lang Syne," "Angels We Have Heard On High," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "Up On The Housetop" are equally marvelous, with the quartet using their best instincts to capture the spirit of the originals without abandoning their raw and decidedly raucous approach. Information: old97s.com. 

Artist: Phosphorescent
Title: C'est La Vie (Dead Oceans)
Tell me more: Since discovering Phosphorescent at the Stagecoach Festival in 2011, I've been a fan of the genre-blending troupe headed by singer-songwriter Matthew Houck. Now after an extended wait of more than five years (the group's previous album Muchacho was released in March 2013), Phosphorescent is back with their seventh studio album, C'est La Vie. The good news is the long wait was worth it; Phosphorescent's unique approach of crafting luxurious songs that occupy a dreamlike soundscape is fully intact. There are the wistful quiet nuggets ("Christmas Down Under," "These Rocks"), a driving Americana-tinged indie rocker ("Around the Horn") and even a meditative synth pop foray (the title track "C'est La Vie"). Information: PhosphorescentMusic.com.

Artist: Ken Sharp
Title: Beauty in the Backseat
Tell me more: Ken Sharp's fifth LP Beauty in the Backseat mixes up things in all the right ways, unabashed in terms of being forcefully melodic while fused with a heavy dose of Philly soul. Lead-off track "Rock Show" is a splendid mix of soulful gospels, power pop tunefulness, fuzzy guitar textures adorned with a great solo from KISS guitarist Ace Frehley. The driving melodic rocker "Mona Lisa Smile" is pure ear candy. Other sonic delights include the intoxicating "No One Seems to Stay Together Anymore," lovely "Closer" and racing "24 Hours a Day." Sharp is joined by another one of his heroes when Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Oates guests on "Philly Kind of Night." Sharp also pays tribute to several other musical heroes courtesy of the ambitious baroque pop "The Day That David Bowie" died and joyful "I Wanna Be David Cassidy." Information: Ken-Sharp.com.

Artist: Michael Simmons
Title: First Days of Summer (Crab Apple Records)
Tell me more: The Michael Simmons album First Days of Summer captures the spirit of summertime even while creating a sweeping soundscape that means this album will sound great anytime. The lyrics are sharp while the musical chops enhance the enticing melodies; there is just a great positive vibe and freewheeling spirit across the dozen-track run. Simmons' wide-ranging explorations yield a strong crop of great originals and no two sound alike. The soulful "Do Your Best to Care" and explosive "Get Back What You Put In" kick off the full-length album. "No More Girls" is an intoxicating romp that could have been recorded by hitmakers in the '60s; the crunchy pop of "Let's Fall In Love" is one of my favorites on the disc with its mix of Matthew Sweet melodic rock and smart Ric Ocasek styling. "Rudderless Day" is a similarly winning rocker. The lush title track somehow revisits classic Beach Boys territory while sounding completely original. The wonderful baroque-meets-psychedelic "Centre of the Spiral" is a tender and mature look inside a relationship as the best moments of a couple's journey together have passed. Simmons handles most lead vocals and the majority of musical duties on the album with a masterful touch; a few notable guests crop up here and there (including guitarist Robbie Rist, cellist Matthew Carney and lead guitarist Addison Love). Not only are all the songs outstanding and produced perfectly, but the release comes in several wonderful configurations. Information: https://michaelsimmons.bandcamp.com.

Artist: Simple Minds
Title: War Between Worlds (BMG)
Tell me more: Simple Minds returned with yet another masterwork. The Scottish outfit's 2018 album War Between Worlds is bolstered by an amazing collection of songs that are both artful and intoxicating; listeners who connected with 2014's thrilling Big Music will definitely want to pick up War Between Worlds. The material here blends ethereal synthesizers, infectious rhythms, blazing and soaring guitar work (just listen to the fiery "Barrowland Star") and Jim Kerr's signature vocals. Standouts on the disc abound; the electronica-tinged "Magic" and "The Signal and the Noise," driving "Summer" and dreamy "Utopia" showcase a 40-year-old group still focused on the future. Produced by Simple Minds with Andy Wright and Gavin Goldberg, the album is available on standard and deluxe audio CD, standard, deluxe and picture disc vinyl, and digitally, The deluxe edition features three additional tracks, including the sweeping "Silent Kiss" and a reworked cover of the traditional Irish song "Dirty Old Town" featuring Kerr sharing vocals with Sarah Brown. Information: SimpleMinds.com.

Artist: The Good, The Bad & The Queen
Title: Merrie Land (Studio 13)
Tell me more: The second release from The Good, The Bad & The Queen (featuring Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn and Clash bassist Paul Simonon) is titled Merrie Land and the recently-issued title also happens to be one of the best new albums of 2018. A deluxe edition of Merrie Land comes as a sensational package featuring a 56-page hardback book with the album on audio CD; the book itself features sheet music, lyrics and cool artwork. While the deluxe edition is wonderful, casual fans can also pick up the album-only release as a single audio CD disc or digital download. Information: TheGoodTheBadAndTheQueen.com.

Artist: Michael Ubaldini
Title: Song Of Our Time (Blackwater Records)
Tell me more: Michael Ubaldini released yet another brilliant full-length album in 2018; the aptly-titled Song Of Our Time features a dozen cuts finely crafted with nothing more than the artist's signature vocals, acoustic guitar and occasional harmonica. The tracks offer probing and penetrating observations of life in a fast-moving world caught in a state of seemingly-endless turmoil. Ubaldini's sound recalls the acoustic approach of legacy masters Bob Dylan and Neil Young but the Southern California troubadour has a strong voice of his own. The title track reflects the timbre of the age with Ubaldini looking around at a world filled with troubles and admitting "There's nothing I can do, but sing a song for you." Make no mistake that while the artist offers an honest assessment of our world there is a hopeful and uplifting resonance in his songcraft that provides comfort and optimism. Ubaldini's musical pen is wide and aside from the sharp political observations (just listen to "A Clean Mind," "Free Speech Blues" and "Teardrops") and personal defeat ("Walkin' Cane Blues") there are songs of love (the Celtic-flavored "Maddie O' Day") and loss ("When The Chips Were Down," "Gambled Away My Woman"). Song Of Our Time delivers on its stark title more fully with every listen. Information: rocknrollpoet.com.

Artist: Danny Wilkerson
Title: Wilkerson (SpyderPop Records)
Tell me more: Listeners hungry for new music that is melodic, intelligent and ambitious almost beyond measure will be floored by Wilkerson, the brilliant debut from singer-songwriter Danny Wilkerson. The sonic ghosts of the Beatles, the Zombies, Jeff Lynne and XTC can be heard but to be sure the songs here are original and performances uniformly inspired. With songs this exceptional it doesn't hurt that Wilkerson is joined by an all-star cast of supporting players including Roger Joseph Manning Jr. (of Jellyfish, Imperial Drag and Beck fame) on keyboards and backing vocals, guitarist Pat Buchanan (Hall & Oates, Cyndi Lauper, Don Henley), multi-instrumentalist Joe Siders (The New Pornographers) and many others. If Jellyfish had teamed with Burt Bacharach it might sound something like the infectious opener "Everybody Loves to Love." The propulsive "Enough For Somebody" is buoyant and exuberant, perfectly capturing the joy of youthful love. Backed only by a string section, Wilkerson's inviting vocals shine on the probing "Endless Haze"; the Beatlesque "When Your Number's Up" puts his masterful talents as songwriter on display. The shimmering "How She Lost My Heart," lofty "Carry The One" and baroque pop "Let It Go Tonight" are late disc standouts. Produced and engineered by bleu, and mastered by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios in London, Wilkerson is an amazing debut. Information: spyderpop.com.



Robert Kinsler

MUSIC WORTH BUYING - Elvis Costello and Natalie Prass

On the latest episode of MUSIC WORTH BUYING co-hosts TJR and Robert Kinsler discuss Elvis Costello's Look Now and Natalie Prass' The Future And The Past:

Elvis Costello kicks off North American tour next week

Elvis Costello & The Imposters are set to embark on their tour next week. Here is the exciting news below. And while you wait to catch Costello and company on tour, make sure to get a good listen of the outstanding new album Look Now. A true masterwork!

Elvis Costello will kick off his "Look Now And Then... It's Elvis Costello & The Imposters" tour one week from today, bringing his new album Look Now (Concord Records) and other favorites to 20 North American cities in November and December. 'Look Now' marks Costello's first new album with The Imposters - Steve Nieve (keyboards), Davey Faragher (bass) and Pete Thomas (drums) - in a decade. The album has garnered an abundance of critical praise:

"Sharp, sophisticated...effortlessly tuneful...the kind of wry, well-observed pop classicism that's been the hallmark of his genius." - Rolling Stone

“Costello has made a great cake of an album that doesn’t really sound much like any of the 30 before it.” – Variety

“These are very human songs with elegant melodies and arrangements... expertly applied in Costello’s superlative songwriting.” – Associated Press

“His deft pen provides sharp studies of romance and murky motives...lush, sophisticated pop.” – Billlboard

“There are plenty of moments here reaffirming Costello’s position at the forefront of his generation’s most gifted composers.” – USA Today

“A triumph for Costello, a showcase for how he can enliven a mastery of form with a dramatist’s eye...'Look Now' is more than a mere set of songs – it’s a record worth getting lost within.” –Pitchfork

“Meticulously crafted, clever, polished...you can’t imagine a group of surer hands for him to be working with.” - NPR Music

"Look Now And Then... It's Elvis Costello & The Imposters" Tour Dates:
Nov 2 – Bethlehem, PA – The Sands Bethlehem Events Center
Nov 3 – Atlantic City, NJ – Mark G. Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Nov 4 – Washington, DC – DAR Constitution Hall
Nov 6 – Asbury Park, NJ – Paramount Theatre
Nov 7 – Verona, NY – Turning Stone Resort Casino 
Nov 9 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Presents the Oakdale Theatre
Nov 10 – Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre
Nov 13 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore
Nov 14 – Chicago, IL – The Vic
Nov 15 – Minneapolis, MN – Northrop Auditorium
Nov 17 – Grand Rapids, MI – 20 Monroe Live
Nov 19 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre
Nov 21 – St Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
Nov 23 – Thackerville, OK – Winstar World Casino
Nov 25 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
Nov 28 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues
Nov 29 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern
Dec 1 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
Dec 3 – Seattle, WA – Paramount Theatre
Dec 4 – Vancouver, BC – Queen Elizabeth Theatre

‘LOOK NOW’ Full Track-listing:

1. Under Lime
2. Don’t Look Now
3. Burnt Sugar Is So Bitter
4. Stripping Paper
5. Unwanted Number
6. I Let The Sun Go Down
7. Mr. & Mrs. Hush
8. Photographs Can Lie
9. Dishonor The Stars
10. Suspect My Tears
11. Why Won’t Heaven Help Me?
12. He’s Given Me Things

Deluxe Special Edition Tracks:

13. Isabelle In Tears
14. Adieu Paris (L’Envie Des Étoiles)
15. The Final Mrs. Curtain
16. You Shouldn’t Look At Me That Way