New music: ZZ Ward, Firefall, Chris Church, Peter Holsapple, Candice Night, Roy Rogers & Dale Evans

The first half of 2025 has seen the release of a slew of fantastic new studio albums and reissues. In this column I feature a number of the best titles featuring American artists that have been issued over the past few months.

Artist: ZZ Ward
Title: Liberation (Sun Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Grace Potter, Beth Hart, blues music
Tell me more: Blues songstress ZZ Ward displays her signature vocals and powers as a songwriter on her latest album, Liberation, a disc that offers up a mix of strong originals and inspired covers. Early standouts on the 14-track disc include the soulful opener "Mother" (a new track about her new role as a working mother), a fiery take on the rockabilly-fueled Elvis Presley nugget "My Baby Left Me," a rip-roaring reading of the Jesters' "Cadillac Man" and the self-penned power blues ballad "Love Alive." The strength of the album continues courtesy of the likes of the intoxicating title track, soaring retro sortie "Lioness," Delta-soaked remake of Son House's "Grinnin' In Your Face," a high-octane blues harp-adorned cover of Robert Johnson's "Dust My Broom" and an artful New Orleans-flavored version of Alvin Robinson's "Something You Got." Information: sunrecords.com.

Artist: Firefall
Title: Friends & Family 2 (Sunset Boulevard Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Fleetwood Mac, Dan Fogelberg, Stephen Stills, The Beach Boys
Tell me more: Boulder, Colorado-spawned soft rock heroes Firefall are back with Friends & Family 2, a followup to their acclaimed 2023 album Friends & Family. This time around the talented troupe revisits a new collection of classic rock hits originally forged between the late 1960s and early '80s. The quintet is also joined several celebrated guests who elevate the proceedings. Among the great remakes on the 12-track album is a harmonies-filled take on Stephen Stills' "Love the One You're With" (featuring additional vocals from Wynonna Judd), a bewitching cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Go Your Own Way," a fiery take of the Buffalo Springfield favorite "Mr. Soul" (Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Richie Furay sings the same vocal part he sang on the Neil Young-penned classic in 1968), a tender rendering of America's "I Need You," a shimmering "So You Want To Be a Rock 'N' Roll Star" featuring John Jorgensen on 12-string guitar, and a delightfully countrified take of the Flying Burrito Brothers' "Christine's Tune." Information: sunsetblvdrecords.com.

Artist: Chris Church
Title: Obsolete Path (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Neil Young, Todd Rundgren, Matthew Sweet
Tell me more: North Carolina-based singer-songwriter Chris Church is not afraid to mix up a wide range of rock styles in the service of his top-tier songcraft, and that approach works wonders across his latest album Obsolete Path. The indie rocker "Sit Down" with its exhilarating guitar play, wistful New Wave mining "I Don't Wanna Be There," sumptuous power pop gem "She Looks Good in Black," rollicking "Life On A Trampoline," melodic noise rock strike "Running Right Back To You," electric guitar-whipped melodic rocker "The Great Divide," genre-defying "Vice Versa" (the latter featuring Bill Lloyd on mandolin) and Americana rocker "Like A Sucker" are among my favorite tracks on Obsolete Path. Church — who plays guitars, bass, keyboards and sings lead and backing vocals across the outstanding 12-track release — is one of today's most exciting and creative artists and proves it at every wonderful turn across the inventive masterwork. Information: bigstirrecords.com.

Artist: Peter Holsapple
Title: The Face Of 68 (Label 51 Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Jason Falkner, Continental Drifters, R.E.M., Big Star
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Peter Holsapple has earned countless accolades for his previous work, including his role in The dB's and Continental Drifters — two influential bands he co-helmed over the course of acclaimed albums like 1981's Stands for deciBels and 1998's Vermilion as well as his studio and touring contributions with R.E.M. and Hootie & the Blowfish. Now Holsapple is back with a terrific solo album, The Face of 68, whose heady mix of muscular rock, melodic power pop and experimental flourishes draws comparisons with the likes of Cheap Trick, dada and the Smithereens. The riveting opener "Anytime Soon" bridges power pop and modern rock with an undeniable energy, Holsapple's vocals a perfect fit amidst the melodic garage rock soundscape and his raging guitar play. That promising start proves to be just the beginning; subsequent great cuts include the rollicking "The Face of 68," the crunchy rockers "Larger Than Life" and "My Idea #49," the bewitching blues cut "One for the Book," power pop sortie "Fireflies" and tuneful "She and Me." Information: label51recordings.com.

Artist: Candice Night
Title: Sea Glass (earMUSIC)
You might like if you enjoy: Candice Night, Blackmore's Night, Idina Menzel
Tell me more: Blackmore's Night lead singer/multi-instrumentalist Candice Night has released her solo album Sea Glass, an 11-track album showcasing her expressive soprano and emotional originals delivered via a myriad of different musical genres. The album's highlights include the Renaissance-flavored title track, uptempo Americana nugget "Unsung Hero (She'll Never Tell)," blues-rock version of "Angel and Jezebel," lovely Baroque song "Promise Me," cinematic instrumental "Dark Carnival," piano-anchored ballad "The Last Goodbye" and the shimmering "Another Day." Sea Glass is available on limited edition colored vinyl, as well as on CD Digipak and via Digital. Information: candice-night.com.

Artist: Roy Rogers and Dale Evans
Title: Songs Of The Old West (RockBeat Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, Sons of the Pioneers
Tell me more: Nostalgic and timeless, the parade of 22 classic selections on Great Songs of the Old West celebrates the signature Americana sound of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. Rogers was one of the most popular stars of his era — appearing in almost 90 films between 1935 and 1975 — and starring alongside his real life wife Evans on the popular television show "The Roy Rogers Show" between 1951 and 1957. Songs of the Old West also serves as a reminder to just how wonderful Rogers and Evans were as top-tier singers. In addition to the couple's enduring Evans-penned theme song "Happy Trails" the expansive set includes the enchanting "A Cowboy Needs A Horse" (bolstered by Rogers' impressive yodeling), accordion-anchored "Whoopie Ty-Yi-Yo (Get Along Little Dogies)," galloping "Hoofbeat Serenade," lovely "Goodbye Old Paint (I'm Leaving Cheyenne)," and beautiful "Red River Valley" and "Tumbling Tumbleweeds" (the latter two selections featuring Evans). Rogers' incredible tenor voice brings palpable emotional weight to the classic cowboy songs "Streets Of Laredo" and "Bury Me Not On The Lone Prairie" while Evans equals that power on the harmonies-adorned "Home On The Range." Among the bonus tracks is a showcase for Pat Brady — who was Rogers' sidekick on his television show — singing the fun-filled "Roy Rogers Had A Ranch." Information: RockBeatRecords.com.

Robert Kinsler

Whoopie Ty-Yi-Yo (Get Along Little Dogies)

Celebrate William Shatner’s Historic Space Trip With A Commemorative 7” Vinyl!

Some pretty cool news here for fans of William Shatner! Make sure to read my review of his amazing performance at the Coach House back in 2013 too HERE! Robert Kinsler

Celebrate WILLIAM SHATNER’s Historic Space Trip With A Commemorative 7” Vinyl!

Los Angeles, CA – Not many real life events can elicit chills from sci-fi fans but when William Shatner, who portrayed space captain James T. Kirk on the long-running sci-fi series Star Trek, was actually flown into space aboard the Jeff Bezos-owned Blue Origin rocket, well, even the most cynical among us couldn’t help but feel a certain amount of astonished delight!

William Shatner performing at The Coach House
on Oct. 25, 2013. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Now, fans of Mr. Shatner can celebrate that historic, out-of-this-world trip with a fun commemorative single! Shatner’s brilliant rendition of Elton John’s classic “Rocket Man” was originally released as a part of his 2011 solo album Seeking Major Tom. The track featured guitar work from influential Gong axeman Steve Hillage and recently has been newly mixed by producer Jürgen Engler. This new version is being released on both digital platforms as well as a limited edition 7” vinyl backed with Shatner’s version of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity featuring Deep Purple’s Ritchie Blackmore & Candice Night! Get your copy now before the Klingons destroy them all!

Stream the single: https://orcd.co/william_shatner_rocket_man

Order the 7”: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/william-shatner-rocket-man-limited-edition-silver-7-vinyl/

Track List:
SIDE A
Rocket Man feat. Steve Hillage

SIDE B
Space Oddity feat. Ritchie Blackmore & Candice Night

2021 Holiday music roundup

What would the season be without new holiday music? A myriad of new releases, as well as highly-anticipated and expanded reissues are available this year.

Artist: Blackmore's Night

Title: Winter Carols (earMUSIC)

You might like if you enjoy: Blackmore's Night, Renaissance music

Tell me more: Originally released in 2006, the newly-remastered and expanded edition of the Blackmore's Night classic Winter Carols is available as a 2CD and digital album. Previous favorites such as the luxurious "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," spectacular "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"/"O Come All Ye Faithful" medley, Baroque-flavored "I Saw Three Ships" and instrumental classical guitar gem "Winter Base Dance)" are here. "Coventry Carol," an English carol dating back to the 16th century, is reworked here with additional lyrics by amazing lead vocalist Candice Night and new arrangement by guitar master Ritchie Blackmore. There are also several other tracks new to the collection, including the shimmering "Here We Come A-Caroling," "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," "O Little Town Of Bethlehem" and "Silent Night." The 2CD version includes a wonderful 20-page booklet with photographs, lyrics for all the selections and album credits. Information: blackmoresnight.com.

Artist: Eagles of Death Metal

Title: Eagles of Death Metal Presents A Boots Electric Christmas (UMe)

You might like if you enjoy: Eagles of Death Metal, holiday music

Tell me more: Leave it to the Palm Desert-spawned Eagles of Death Metal to release one of the most delightful and old-fashioned Christmas music collections of 2021. The six songs on Eagles of Death Metal Presents A Boots Electric Christmas (available on Nov. 19) recall the cheer of the best holiday music-minded sets of the 1960s. There is a warmth, intimacy and authenticity to the group's affecting versions of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "Put A Little Love In Your Heart," "O Holy Night," "Little Drummer Boy" and "Little Town Of Bethlehem." The disc's closer is a shining a cappella rendition of "O Holy Night" featuring the tandem vocals of Jesse Hughes and Joshua Homme. Information: EaglesOfDeathMetal.com.

Artist: Goo Goo Dolls

Title: It's Christmas All Over (Warner Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Goo Goo Dolls, Fastball

Tell me more: Celebrated rockers Goo Goo Dolls have released a deluxe edition of It's Christmas All Over, which follows on the heels of the group's latest compilation album titled Rarities. The 12-song "It's Christmas All Over" reintroduces the first-ever holiday music release from John Rzenik and Robby Takac. The collection includes a brand new sentimental original "One Last Song About Christmas" and previously-unreleased cover of "I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm," the latter a classic made famous by Dean Martin. My other faves on the album include the group's version of "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" and "This Is Christmas." Information: GooGooDolls.com.

Artist: Billy Idol

Title: Happy Holidays (Dark Horse Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Billy Idol, Steve Stevens

Tell me more: Billy Idol's 2006 Christmas studio album Happy Holidays is out now for the first time on vinyl and streaming platforms via Dark Horse Records. This gem features a mix of cool originals ("Happy Holidays," "Christmas Love") and reworked covers ("Frosty the Snowman," "Silver Bells," "Let It Snow," "Blue Christmas"). A new original bonus track also appears on the album; the mid tempo rocker "On Christmas Day" features long-time Idol collaborator Steve Stevens on electric guitar. My favorite on the collection is Idol's rocking cover of Chuck Berry's "Run Rudolph Run." Fans can purchase the LP on black vinyl, audio CD and on limited edition white vinyl. Information: BillyIdol.net.

Artist: Paul Kelly

Title: Paul Kelly's Christmas Train (Gawd Aggie/Cooking Vinyl Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Paul Kelly, Bob Dylan

Tell me more: There is a parade of diverse material on Paul Kelly's first-ever Christmas album (Paul Kelly's Christmas Train). Among the terrific selections on the expansive 22-track double album set is the lovely Americana-styled version of "Silent Night" draped with Hawaiian guitars and ukuleles, a cappella traditional joy "Coventry Carol," rollicking power pop-styled take on the Chris and Wes Harrington cut "Christmas," bewitching "Little Drummer Boy," shining reading of the early 1960s classic "Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)" and absolutely stunning version of "O Holy Night" ("Papu Te Pō") sung in English and Māori featuring singer Marlon Williams and the Dhungala Children's Choir. In keeping with the spirit of the season, Kelly even includes a Hanukkah song ("Shalom Aleichem") while Islam is honored when Waleed Aly recites the vivid poetry of Surah Maryam on the collection. Information: CookingVinyl.com.

Photo credit: Gina Binkley 

Artist: Pistol Annies

Title: Hell of a Holiday (UMe)

You might like if you enjoy: Ashley Monroe, Miranda Lambert, Angaleena Presley

Tell me more: Celebrated country music trio Pistol Annies has ushered in Christmas with the aptly-titled Hell of a Holiday, a spirited collection of mostly-original tracks that are are as ambitious as they are wonderful. There are some lovely originals to be sure — the '50s-mining "Make You Blue" and poignant "The Only Thing I Wanted" immediately come to mind — there is a plucky attitude across much of the disc. The lively title track features some artful and sublime vocal harmonies. The playful "Snow Globe" is literate and melodic, totally capturing the spirit of the holiday season. "Harlan County Coal" is a bit more irreverent than your average Christmas track, as evidenced by the catchy chorus: "Making decorations out of shotgun shells, making it up as we go / Making something out of nothing so you better straighten up, Or all you're gonna get's a chunk of Harlan County coal." Other standouts on the wonderful album include the jazzy "Come On Christmas Time," gospel jewel "Leanin' on Jesus," soaring "Believing" and acoustic Americana jewel "Joy." In addition to the 10 original tracks on "Hell of a Holiday," Ashley Monroe, Miranda Lambert and Angaleena Presley make "Sleigh Ride," "Auld Lang Syne" and Merle Haggard's "If We Make It Through December" their own. Information: PistolAnnies.com. 

Artist: Jeremiah Lockwood

Title: A Great Miracle: Jeremiah Lockwood’s Guitar Soli Chanukah Record (Reboot)

You might like if you enjoy: Hanukkah music, "The New Possibility: John Fahey's Guitar Soli Christmas Album," instrumental guitar music, Richard LaForge's "Coloring Trees" album

Tell me more: With the first night of Hanukkah having arrived on Sunday, Nov. 28, there is no time like the present to listen to Jeremiah Lockwood's A Great Miracle: Jeremiah Lockwood’s Guitar Soli Chanukah Record. Released on Nov. 22, A Great Miracle: Jeremiah Lockwood’s Guitar Soli Chanukah Record is a beautiful solo guitar celebration of the Festival of Lights. Inspired in part by the groundbreaking 1968 album The New Possibility: John Fahey's Guitar Soli Christmas Album, Lockwood's new 8-track album delivers a stunning selection for each night of the Chanukah holiday. Spanning from the lovely "Ritual" and more forceful "Al Hanisim" to several pieces centered on the magic of the Dreydl (the bluesy take on Samuel Goldfarb's "Little Dreydel" and original arrangement of Moishe Oysher's "Drey Dreydl") and touching closer "Chanukah Oy Chanukah," this is a wonderful album that will brighten any music lover's holiday season. Information: JeremiahLockwood.com. 

Artist: Ronnie Milsap

Title: Christmas with Ronnie Milsap (Craft Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Ronnie Milsap

Tell me more: Ronnie Milsap's 1986 album Christmas with Ronnie Milsap has returned via a terrific new reissue. Listening to the legendary country music artist's only holiday title it's crazy that it was ever out of print. The performances are terrific and the symphonic approach works as Milsap delivers touching versions of favorites such as the uptempo "Only One Night of the Year," sweeping "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and soaring "O Holy Night." Information: CraftRecordings.com. 

Artist: Carrie Underwood

Title: My Gift: Special Edition (Capitol Nashville)

You might like if you enjoy: Carrie Underwood

Tell me more: Originally released in 2020, Carrie Underwood's My Gift has been released as a Special Edition set that includes all 11 tracks from the original version along with three new tracks ("Favorite Time Of Year," "All Is Well," "Let There Be Peace/Something In The Water") performed on her recent HBO Max television special. Information: CarrieUnderwood.com. 

HOLIDAY SOUNDTRACK CLASSIC

Title: Elf: The Deluxe Edition (Varèse Sarabande Records)

Composer: John Debney's scores for "Iron Man 2" and "The Jungle Book"

You might like if you enjoy: Christmas music

Tell me more: When the holiday movie "Elf" was released in 2003, the film starring Will Farrell became an instant classic. Although the soundtrack was initially released in connection around the time of the movie's arrival in theaters, its enduring popularity made releasing an expanded edition a wonderful idea. Elf: The Deluxe Edition features an expanded score (44 tracks in all!), as well as the alternate and edited tracks from the 2003 audio CD. Liner notes by Tim Grieving feature new interview content with director Jon Favreau, composer John Debney and one of the film's stars, Mary Steenburgen. Information: VareseSarabande.com.

Robert Kinsler

Blackmore's Night announce the remastered and enhanced edition of their classic album 'Winter Carols'

With Christmas rapidly approaching, news related to holiday music releases takes center stage...Robert Kinsler

BLACKMORE'S NIGHT ANNOUNCE THE REMASTERED & ENHANCED EDITION

OF THEIR CLASSIC ALBUM “WINTER CAROLS”

OUT NOVEMBER 19TH, 2021

New York, NY--Following traditional Holiday music back to its roots, Blackmore’s Night, (Candice Night and Ritchie Blackmore) approach Christmas songs with their own unique styling. On November 19th, 2021, they will celebrate the holidays with the relaunch of their classic album Winter Carols, available as a high-quality 2CD Digipak Edition and digital album (earMUSIC).

Originally released in 2006, this 2021 version has been carefully remastered and contains these four tracks that were previously unavailable in this format: “Here We Come A-Caroling”, “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear”, “O Little Town Of Bethlehem” and “Silent Night”. Additionally, Winter Carols includes a remastered version of their timeless Christmas single “Christmas Eve”.

A brand-new song, “Coventry Carol”, is an English Christmas carol dating back to the 16th century with additional lyrics by award-winning lyricist / vocalist Candice Night and new musical arrangements by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore.

Mastering the mix of Rock and Folk elements, Blackmore’s Night have always perfected the art of creating music for family, friends, and fans to come together and celebrate. Winter Carols provides the perfect backdrop for the holiday season.

Tracklisting:

CD 1:
1. Coventry Carol

2. Deck The Halls

3. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

4. O Christmas Tree

5. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / O Come All Ye  

    Faithful

6. I Saw Three Ships

7. Winter (Basse Dance)

8. Ding Dong Merrily On High

9. Ma-O-Tzur

10. Good King Wenceslas

11. Simple Gifts (Lord Of The Dance)

12. We Three Kings

13. Wish You Were Here (2021)

14. Emmanuel

15. Christmas Eve

16. We Wish You A Merry Christmas

CD 2:
1. Crowning Of The King

2. Here We Come A-Caroling

3. It Came Upon A Midnight Clear

4. O Little Town Of Bethlehem

5. Silent Night

6. Christmas Eve (2013 Version)

7. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / O Come All Ye
    Faithful (Live From Minstrel Hall)

8. Emmanuel (Live From Minstrel Hall)

9. We Three Kings (Live From Minstrel Hall)

10. Ma-O-Tzur (Live From Minstrel Hall)

11. Good King Wenceslas (Live From Minstrel Hall)

Blackmore’s Night online:

www.blackmoresnight.com

Facebook 

Instagram

YouTube

www.ear-music.net 

Blackmore's Night to release remastered & enhanced edition of their classic holiday set 'Winter Carols' on Nov. 19, 2021

 Another holiday-minded release has been announced, and it's a good one - a remastered and enhanced edition of Blackmore's Night's 'Winter Carols' album (originally released back in 2006)! Robert Kinsler

ANNOUNCE THE REMASTERED & ENHANCED EDITION OF THEIR CLASSIC ALBUM “WINTER CAROLS” OUT NOVEMBER 19TH, 2021 New York, NY (October 22, 2021)--Following traditional Holiday music back to its roots, Blackmore’s Night (Candice Night and Ritchie Blackmore) approach Christmas songs with their own unique styling. On November 19th, 2021, they will celebrate the holidays with the relaunch of their classic album Winter Carols, available as a high-quality 2CD Digipak Edition and digital album (earMUSIC). Originally released in 2006, this 2021 version has been carefully remastered and contains these four tracks that were previously unavailable in this format: “Here We Come A-Caroling”, “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear”, “O Little Town Of Bethlehem” and “Silent Night”. Additionally, Winter Carols includes a remastered version of their timeless Christmas single “Christmas Eve”. A brand-new song, “Coventry Carol”, is an English Christmas carol dating back to the 16th century with additional lyrics by award-winning lyricist / vocalist Candice Night and new musical arrangements by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. Mastering the mix of Rock and Folk elements, Blackmore’s Night have always perfected the art of creating music for family, friends, and fans to come together and celebrate. Winter Carols provides the perfect backdrop for the holiday season. Tracklisting: CD 1: 1. Coventry Carol 2. Deck The Halls 3. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen 4. O Christmas Tree 5. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / O Come All Ye Faithful 6. I Saw Three Ships 7. Winter (Basse Dance) 8. Ding Dong Merrily On High 9. Ma-O-Tzur 10. Good King Wenceslas 11. Simple Gifts (Lord Of The Dance) 12. We Three Kings 13. Wish You Were Here (2021) 14. Emmanuel 15. Christmas Eve 16. We Wish You A Merry Christmas CD 2: 1. Crowning Of The King 2. Here We Come A-Caroling 3. It Came Upon A Midnight Clear 4. O Little Town Of Bethlehem 5. Silent Night 6. Christmas Eve (2013 Version) 7. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / O Come All Ye Faithful (Live From Minstrel Hall) 8. Emmanuel (Live From Minstrel Hall) 9. We Three Kings (Live From Minstrel Hall) 10. Ma-O-Tzur (Live From Minstrel Hall) 11. Good King Wenceslas (Live From Minstrel Hall) Blackmore’s Night online: www.blackmoresnight.com Facebook Instagram YouTube www.ear-music.net

Eclectic Releases To Stir The Sonic Soul: Blackmore's Night, The Black Crowes, Lorenzo Wolff, Melody Duncan, Jody Porter

Any week where I can champion new audio releases covering the far-flung genres of Renaissance music, Southern rock, chamber-pop folk and indie rock is a great one.

Artist: Blackmore's Night

Title: Nature's Light (earMUSIC)

You might like if you enjoy: Ritchie Blackmore, Blackmore's Night, Renaissance music

Tell me more: Those wondering if there is any sonic bridge between the Renaissance era (1400-1600) and modern rock music need listen no further than Blackmore's Night, the troupe led by multi-instrumentalist Ritchie Blackmore and singer/multi-instrumentalist Candice Night. Nature's Light marks the collective's first new album in six years; a long wait to be sure but the new 10-track LP fully immerses the listener in a sound that blends past and present music making with artful sublimity. The range and scope of wonderful songs and instrumental pieces on the LP includes the Celtic-flavored "Feather In The Wind," gorgeous Blackmore-penned instrumental "Darker Shade Of Black" (bolstered by an especially-melodic electric guitar solo), traditional "Going To The Faire," triumphant title track and evocative "Second Element." Those who miss Blackmore's signature rock guitar work with Deep Purple and Rainbow will want to revel in "Der letzte Musketier," an instrumental confirming that the 75-year-old British legend is still one of the world's most gifted guitar heroes. Released on March 12, Nature's Light is available on multiple formats including audio CD, digital, vinyl, as well as a strictly-limited 2CD hardcover media book with a bonus disc of selected songs from the group's extensive back catalogue. Information: blackmoresnight.com.

Artist: The Black Crowes

Title: Shake Your Money Maker (Target Exclusive) (UMe)

You might like if you enjoy: The Black Crowes, The Rolling Stones, Humble Pie

Tell me more: One of the first great albums of the '90s and a bona fide rock classic of the era, the Black Crowes' Shake Your Money Maker has been reissued and has never sounded better. Rock radio still features a trio of the album's gems (the rocking "Jealous Again" and "Hard To Handle" along with the sweet Southern blues-rock ballad "She Talks to Angels") in regular rotation, but the disc's strength extend to the ragged British blues cut "Twice As Hard," Rolling Stones-styled "Sister Luck" and "Thick N' Thin" and others. In addition to the original remastered album that occupies disc 1, a second disc includes a number of unreleased songs and B-sides (a cover of Humble's Pie's "3- Days in the Hole" and horn section-draped "Hard To Handle" are particularly notable). Rounding out the 3-disc version I have (available for $20.99 on retail giant's Target.com website) is a previously-unreleased 1990 Atlanta concert recording that fully captures the energy of the quintet led by brothers Chris and Rich Robinson. There are several other configurations of the reissue available including a limited edition money green colored vinyl LP version on sale at Amazon.com. Information: TheBlackCrowes.com.

Artist: Lorenzo Wolff

Title: Down Where the Valleys Are Low: Another Otherworld for Judee Sill (StorySound Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Judee Sill, Courtney Barnett, Lorenzo Wolff

Tell me more: Music aficionados will be forgiven if they are not familiar with the entrancing music of the late singer-songwriter Judee Sill, who passed away in November 1979 at the age of 35. Although Sill was David Geffen's first signing to his Asylum label in the early '70s, her eponymous 1971 debut and 1973's Heart Food failed to achieve the success of titles from other Asylum artists including Linda Ronstadt, Jackson Browne and Joni Mitchell. Producer/multi-instrumentalist Lorenzo Wolff — who was first introduced to Sill in 2010 on a playlist created by tour-mate Henry Wolfe — has crafted a compelling and affecting tribute to Sill titled Down Where the Valleys Are Low: Another Otherworld for Judee Sill. Wolff has gathered different lead singers for each of the seven songs of the wide-ranging tribute. Singer Mary-Elaine Jenkins' melancholy vocals lift the magnificent title track. Bartees Strange brings his rich baritone to the soaring Americana-styled "The Pearl." The diversity of the selections is electrifying; the experimental "Crayon Angels" (featuring vocalist Grace McLean), lush "The Kiss" (featuring singer Emily Holden) and haunting "There's a Rugged Road" (with Osei Essed on lead vocals) are among the other elegant Sill-penned songs on the Wolff-produced collection. Information: StorySoundRecords.com.

Artist: Melody Duncan

Title: Wolf Song (Melody Duncan)

You might like if you enjoy: Cowboy Junkies, First Aid Kit, Brandi Carlile

Tell me more: A talented singer, songwriter and fiddler, Melody Duncan's newly-released Wolf Song was also recorded and produced by the Atlanta, Georgia-based artist in her home studio. The disc is beautiful throughout, the 11 songs probing the world with an intimate and personal touch. Evoking the feeling of being in the home studio with Duncan amidst the creation of her recordings, the blend of sonic intimacy and personal songcraft is remarkably in tune with our times. "Lonely" shines with elements including vocal layering, piano and whistling surrounding Duncan's slightly raspy (but lovely) vocals. The straightforward acoustic jewel "Over The Hill" is sparse with her voice accompanied by a lone guitar, but the power of her reflective message about facing each and every challenge is a powerful one to be sure. Just as mighty are her introspective baroque folk originals "Reunion" and "Campfire" that follow. The aptly-titled "Rain Storm" is one of the most interesting disc-ending tracks in memory, a reminder of nature's unparalleled power and humanity's own gift to treasure the sounds that lurk all around us. Information: MelodyDuncanMusic.com.

Artist: Jody Porter

Title: Waterways (Rare Rock Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Belltower, The Church, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, Doves

Tell me more: Jody Porter — acclaimed as the lead guitarist of Fountains of Wayne — is back with his latest solo effort (Waterways). The sound across the 12-track album is lush and inviting, Porter's euphonious voice is emotive and the musicianship is sharp and stylish. Highlights abound; the dreamy "Moonbeam Reach" draws favorable comparisons with the wistful work of The Church and Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Elsewhere the disc's expansive riches include the driving "Sunsick Moon," indie rocker "Girl From The Other Side," dreamy "Crashland" and power pop-mining "Neverlasting Love." Several stellar cuts round out the set including the swirling "Synching Ships," experimental rocker "Masters At Work" and enchanting "WaterwaysPt2." The wonderful-sounding album was produced by Porter and Fountains of Wayne drummer Brian Young. Information: https://jodyporter1.bandcamp.com.

Robert Kinsler

.