New music: Simple Minds, Social Distortion, The Three O'Clock, Don McLean, Gram Parsons & the Fallen Angels

Grab these essential reissues, special collections and archive titles while they are available.

Artist: Simple Minds

Title: Acoustic In Concert (Mercury Studios)

You might like if you enjoy: Simple Minds, U2, Coldplay

Tell me more: Although it has been more than 45 years since Simple Minds formed in Glasgow, Scotland, the troupe's music resonates with as much power as ever as on the Blu-ray+CD release Acoustic In Concert. Captured at London's legendary Hackey Empire on Nov. 10, 2016, Simple Minds' performance as part of BBC Radio 2's "In Concert" series is a revelation for those who love textured and artful melodic alt rock. While the band members use acoustic instruments this is definitely no easy listening affair. Singer Jim Kerr and guitar great Charlie Burchill lead the ensemble through a potent and impassioned concert that includes well-known hits such as "Promised You a Miracle," "Don't You (Forget About Me)," "Someone Somewhere in Summertime," "Alive and Kicking" and "Sanctify Yourself," as well as tributes to some of the group's own heroes (David Bowie's "Andy Warhol" and Patti Smith's "Dancing Barefoot"). The concert ends with Simple Minds being joined on stage by groundbreaking English singer-songwriter Steve Harley to perform a joyous "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)." The audio and visual elements on the Blu-ray are outstanding. Information: simpleminds.com and mercurystudios.co.

Artist: Social Distortion

Title: Mommy's Little Monster (Craft Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Social Distortion, Mike Ness, The Adolescents, The Offspring

Tell me more: Craft Recordings' 40th Anniversary reissue of Social Distortion's fiery debut Mommy's Little Monster is a must-have for fans of the groundbreaking Southern California punk rock outfit. Released on Nov. 10 on 180-gram vinyl and digital formats, the album has been newly remastered from the original analog tapes that were recorded on Christmas Eve in 1982 at The Casbah recording studios in Fullerton, CA. The album features several of Social Distortion's early standout tracks including the blistering title track, hard-edged "The Creeps (I Just Wanna Give You)," and hardcore-styled single "Another State of Mind." In addition to classic black vinyl, Mommy's Little Monster is available in a variety of exclusive limited edition color ways, including ruby red, black & white marble, an exclusive white pressing at Barnes & Noble, and a gray variant at RevolverMag.com. Information: CraftRecordings.com.

Artist: The Three O'Clock

Title: Sixteen Tambourines (Yep Roc Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Rain Parade, The Bangles, Big Star

Tell me more: As one of the leaders of the so-called "Paisley Underground" Los Angeles area music scene in the early 1980s, The Three O'Clock blended garage rock, psychedelic pop, college rock and power pop into a groundbreaking brew. The band's 1984 sophomore album Sixteen Tambourines has been reissued in celebration of its 40th anniversary, and has been remastered by Bill Inglot and Dave Schultz. The wonderful sounding reissue provides a fantastic chance to discover (or rediscover) this outstanding masterwork. Sixteen Tambourines features a myriad of wonderful tracks including the rocking opener "Jet Fighter," dreamy "Stupid Einstein," melodic "And So We Run," Baroque pop original "Tomorrow," dance-minded "When Lightning Starts" and scintillating "Seeing Is Believing." Information: https://thethreeoclock.bandcamp.com/music.

Artist: Don McLean

Title: Christmas Memories: Remixed and Remastered  (BFD/Orchard)

You might like if you enjoy: Don McLean, John Denver, XXXXX

Tell me more: Acclaimed singer-songwriter Don McLean ("American Pie," "Vincent," "Castles in the Air") has released one of the essential holiday music collections of 2023. Christmas Memories: Remixed and Remastered features McLean's terrific original arrangements of a dozen Christmas favorites. McLean uses his signature vocals to bring warmth and bona fide emotion to all the selections. The disc opens with a delightfully retro take on "Blue Christmas" before showcasing his strong vocals on the mostly a cappella "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen." Other standouts include the compelling "I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day," a jazzy "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," poignant acoustic-styled "Silent Night," and Renaissance-mining "The Burgundian Carol." "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem" is particularly beautiful and McLean's version utilizes nuanced orchestration and a full choir to conjure up the magic of classic '50s and '60s recordings.  McLean will perform at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler, AZ on Feb. 10, 2024. Information: donmclean.com.

Artist: Gram Parsons & the Fallen Angels

Title: The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16//73 (Amoeba Music)

You might like if you enjoy: The Flying Burrito Brothers, Chris Hillman, Gram Parsons, Wilco, Merle Haggard

Tell me more: Fate is on full display across the two-LP live recording titled The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16/73. The second release of the Gram Parsons Archive series, the vinyl release features the first new Gram Parsons solo material issued in 40 years (Parsons died at age of 26 at the Joshua Tree Inn in nearby Joshua Tree, CA on Sept. 19, 1973). The record chronicles a complete performance by Parsons and the Fallen Angels performed on March 16, 1973. In addition to Parsons (lead vocals and rhythm guitar) and the then-unknown Emmylou Harris (vocals), the troupe includes guitarist Jock Barkley, pedal steel guitarist Neil Flanz, drummer N.D. Smart and bassist Kyle Tullis. In a press release distributed in connection with the Record Store Day Black Friday release, Flanz (who sadly died in 2021) stated that he felt this was the ensemble's best performance of the entire tour so he requested a soundboard recording of the show; he held onto the cassette for 40 years before it was acquired by Amoeba Music. The tape was then lost for about 10 years, and recently rediscovered and restored to be used for The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16/73. 

Although there are some limitations to the recording captured on a cassette more than 50 years ago, the power of the performance from an outstanding group at the height of their powers shines through across the recording. The version of "We'll Sweep Out The Ashes" is an early standout, showcasing the bewitching sound created when Parson and Harris sing together. A speedy version of the Flying Burrito Brothers' "My Uncle" displays the band's virtuoso chops and Parson's signature alternative country approach.

Other early highlights on the title include a beautiful take on Parsons' Byrds-era Sweetheart of the Rodeo track "Drug Store Truck Drivin' Man," and wistful "Streets of Baltimore," the latter featuring incredible harmonies and pedal steel magic courtesy of Flanz.

An energetic take on Merle Haggard's Bakersfield country classic "California Cotton Fields," rousing blues-country track "Cry One More Time," pedal steel- and lead guitar-adorned "The New Soft Shoe" and lovely acoustic original "Sin City" are all spectacular. My favorite selection is a haunting version of the Everly Brothers 1960 recording "Love Hurts," where Harris and Parsons sing in tandem with a palpable and poignant power that brings tears.

The only live club show of Parsons ever released, The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16/73 is truly an incredible chance to revisit the groundbreaking artist's legacy. Information: amoeba.com.

Robert Kinsler

Don McLean sets special concert event on February 3, 2021 at The Surf Ballroom In Clear Lake, Iowa to Kick-Off "American Pie" 50th Anniversary Tour

Exciting news for fans of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, The Big Bopper and Don McLean...

Don McLean Sets Special Concert Event on February 3, 2021 at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa to Kick-Off “American Pie” 50th Anniversary Tour

CLEAR LAKE, Iowa – Legendary singer/songwriter Don McLean released his iconic album American Pie in 1971, and now 50 years later will perform at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, on “The Day The Music Died,” February 3, 2021. This historic night will honor Richie Valens, Buddy Holly, and The Big Bopper as it marks the 62nd anniversary of the 1950 plane crash that killed the American rock ‘n’ roll musicians. In addition, it will officially kick-off the American Pie 50th Anniversary World Tour, which will take McLean to Australia, New Zealand, England, Ireland, and many more places to be announced soon! Most can recite McLean’s hit single “American Pie” by heart, but not all know the meaning behind the song. This fatal day is known as the “The Day the Music Died” coined by McLean’s 1971 hit “American Pie,” written to honor the legacies of the early rock legends who lost their lives in the tragic plane crash. “February 3, 1959 was a tragic day for all of us who lost our heroes in that plane crash. While writing “American Pie,” I felt it was important to remember this incident that to me, was still fresh,” shares McLean. “Now, we will return to the last venue they performed at on the anniversary of the crash to kick off the 50th Anniversary American Pie World Tour.” About Don McLean: Don McLean is a Grammy award honoree, a Songwriter Hall of Fame member, a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, and his smash hit “American Pie” resides in the Library of Congress National Recording Registry and was named by the Recording Industry of America (RIAA) a top 5 song of the 20th Century. A New York native, Don McLean is one of the most revered and respected songwriters in American history. After paying his dues in the New York club scene in the late ‘60s, he went on to score mega-hits like “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night),” “Castles in the Air” and many more. His catalog of songs has been recorded by Madonna, Garth Brooks, Josh Groban, Drake, Weird “Al” Yankovic, and countless others. In 2015, one of McLean’s four handwritten manuscripts of the lyrics to “American Pie” was auctioned by Christies, selling for just over $1.2 Million. 2019 honored Don with a star on the Las Vegas Walkway of Stars and his song “And I Love You So” was the theme for Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s wedding. Now in 2020, Don signed a recording contract with Time Life to release his catalog of recordings as well as the highly anticipated new album Still Playin’ Favorites, was released October 23rd. “American Pie” will be featured in the Avengers Black Widow and the Tom Hanks movie BIOS and much more to be announced. And when you think things are slowing down, not so for Don McLean! 2021 will mark the 50th anniversary of American Pie with a world tour to follow. Visit Don McLean's official website for more information on the artist.

Sights and Sounds: Bright Blue Gorilla, Joe Bonamassa, Gorillaz, Sharon Jones, Don McLean, Little Richard

With the holiday season suddenly here, the parade of wonderful and special year-end releases is already in full swing. This column features a number of wonderful titles ranging from the latest original film from Bright Blue Gorilla and stellar studio albums from Joe Bonamassa and Gorillaz to exciting covers collections from Don McLean and Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings as well as several must-have reissues featuring rock 'n' roll founding father Little Richard.

Artist: Bright Blue Gorilla

Title: 36 Husbands (Bright Blue Gorilla)

You might like if you enjoy: Bright Blue Gorilla, the Monkees TV show, 

Tell me more: "36 Husbands" is a delightfully zany film loaded with the kind of fun thrills and charm that recall classics ranging from Richard Lester's "Help!" and Rob Reiner's "The Princess Bride" to Mel Brooks' "Robin Hood: Men In Tights." A musical adventure comedy written and directed by Michael Glover and produced by Robyn Rosenkrantz – who together comprise the acclaimed musical duo and film making team from Southern California – the story centers around three dynamic women who work to thwart World War III. Of course a cast of crazy characters are featured along the way including a slew of adoring husbands and dastardly villains. Why are all the spies and bad guys (and gals) tuning into the "Bright Blue Gorilla" TV show? No spoilers here - you'll need to watch "36 Husbands" to find out why. A note, "36 Husbands" is a fun-filled romp suitable for all ages. Shot at truly exotic locations in Australia, Berlin, Frankfurt, Dortmund, Paris and Los Angeles, the film is bolstered by Bright Blue Gorilla's amazing music making magic.

The official poster for "36 Husbands."

A note, "36 Husbands" is a fun-filled romp suitable for all ages. "36 Husbands" and all of Bright Blue Gorilla's other movies have been featured on Netflix and are currently available worldwide on iTunes, Amazon, Time Warner and other platforms. A full-length soundtrack featuring all the film's inviting instrumental music and genre-aplenty original songs (including the cool "Love Potion Number 36," melodic "Radiation Song," enthralling "Hold Me" and Americana folk rocker "Labor of Love"). Information: BrightBlueGorilla.com.

Artist: Joe Bonamassa

Title: Royal Tea (J&R Adventures)

You might like if you enjoy: Walter Trout, Eric Clapton, Joe Bonamassa

Tell me more: Joe Bonamassa's latest album Royal Tea is his strongest album to date, a compelling tour de force that showcases the New York native's amazing guitar work and commanding vocals served up with a full plate of killer original songs. Recorded at legendary Abbey Road Studios in January 2020 and produced by Kevin Shirley, Royal Tea thrills as a potent mixture of British blues and Bonamassa's own fusion of various strains of blues across 10 incredible cuts that serve as an immediate reminder why nothing beats the magic of a cohesive album. Bonamassa's guitar work continues to astound; what's more the infectious riffs and jaw-dropping solos always come in the service of absorbing song craft. "Royal Tea" is obvious nod to British blues rock but tagged with Bonamassa's spellbinding fretwork and backing gospel vocals. "A Conversation With Alice" mines '70s greats ranging from Bad Company and The Who to Steely Dan while still sounding fully like a Bonamassa track. The moody "Beyond The Silence" – featuring the talents of keyboardist Reese Wynans – is as beautiful as it is haunting. The heavy "Lookout Man!" shatters any stereotypes about blues being relegated to the past with Bonamassa and his musical mates equaling the might of any of their hard rock and punk contemporaries. Crank this one up. Information: JBonamassa.com.

Artist: Gorillaz

Title: Song Machine: Season One–Strange Timez (Warner Bros./Parlophone)

You might like if you enjoy: Damon Albarn, Gorillaz, Beck

Tell me more: What do Beck, Elton John, Peter Hook, St. Vincent and The Cure's Robert Smith have in common? They join among the large cast of musical notables who guest on tracks – also known as "episodes" – across the ambitious Gorillaz album Song Machine: Season One – Strange Timez. The 7th album from the planet's most celebrated virtual band (featuring non-virtual singer/musician-producer Damon Albarn, artist Jamie Hewlett and producer-percussionist Remi Kabaka Jr.), the two-disc deluxe edition of the album features an additional five tracks beyond the standard release's dozen episodes and is worth exploring. Things blastoff with Robert Smith beaming in from a far-off corner of the sonic universe for the the synth-pop sortie "Strange Timez." Beck follows on the funk-flavored "The Valley of the Pagans." Peter Hook's signature bass playing adds New Order-styled dance floor urgency to the propulsive "Aries," a cut that simultaneously swirls around and immerses the listener in reflective bliss. Equally infectious is the driving "Désolé," featuring Albarn's melancholy vocals and Ivory Coast native Fatoumata Diawara's amazing soprano in a perfect creative union. Elton John (featured on "The Pink Phantom") hasn't sounded this relevant since his full-length collaboration with Leon Russell in 2010 (The Union). The deluxe edition of Strange Timez comes to a rousing finale with "How Far?"; that poignant episode features the late afrobeat ace Tony Allen (who also drummed in Albarn's The Good, The Bad & The Queen; Allen sadly passed away in April 2020).

The masterful mix of genres artfully blended together and several dozen A-list artists who join Gorillaz on what is the troupe's best album since 2010's Plastic Beach make for a compelling journey to be sure. Gorillaz has announced plans to host a digital event "Song Machine Live" on Dec. 12 and 13, 2020. Additionally, Gorillaz has released a 120-page "Almanac" book to celebrate their 20-year history. Wouldn't it be great to see this "Strange Timez" staged live at Coachella when the festival returns? Information: Gorillaz.com.

Artist: Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings

Titles: Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Rendition Was In) (Daptone Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Dusty Springfield, Gladys Knight, Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings

Tell me more: When Sharon Jones passed away on Nov. 8, 2016 after a long battle fighting pancreatic cancer, it didn't put an end to the 60-year-old soul singer's musical legacy. Just listen to the newly-released Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings collection Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Rendition Was In), a batch of 13 covers – including five never-before-heard recordings – that honor the originals and cast a greater appreciation on Jones' ability to conquer any soul or funk cut in sight. Things kick off with a wonderfully faithful take on the Stevie Wonder hit "Signed Sealed Delivered I'm Yours," but she even reaches greater heights via potent reworkings of Janet Jackson's "What Have You Done for Me Lately?" and the Kenny Rogers’ First Edition hit "Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)" – this specific recording the very first done at the Daptone House of Soul studio in 2002) – as well as an inspired take on the Raynard Miner and Carl William Smith song "Rescue Me." Jones' versions of Gladys Knight's "Giving Up" and Bob Marley's "It Hurts To Be Alone" are especially poignant showcases for Jones' vocal powers. As is noted in the press notes published in connection with this release, many of the recordings were tracked on their own, but others were commissioned for possible use in commercials, films and TV shows. The aforementioned "Rescue Me" as well as Jones' interpretation of the Musique disco fave "In the Bush" were outtakes for 2014's "The Wolf of Wall Street" soundtrack. Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Rendition Was In) also includes tracks that were recorded for tributes to Dusty Springfield, The Marvelettes, Shuggie Otis and Prince (her take on "Take Me With U" is wonderfully funky). Information: DaptoneRecords.com.

Artist: Don McLean

Title: Still Playin' Favorites (Time Life)

You might like if you enjoy: Don McLean, Mel Tillis, Glen Campbell

Tell me more: Don McLean delivers a heartfelt tribute to many of his influences on Still Playin' Favorites, a worthy 14-track follow-up to his classic 1973 collection "Playin' Favorites." Whether delving into traditional country (Johnny Cash's "Doggone Lonesome," a spry take on Percy Mayfield's "Hide Nor Hair"), Americana roots rock (Hoyt Axton's "Greenback Dollar," the Amos E. Byrd-Billy Jones getup "Got the Bull By the Horns"), blues (a reworking of the 1959 hit "I Ain't Never," amped up reading of Jenny Lou Carson's "The Keys to the Kingdom"), rockabilly (a rootsy take on the Elvis Presley favorite "Little Sister," a buoyant version of Clyde Moody's "Six White Horses") or folk (the tender "She Used To Love Me A Lot"), McLean hits the mark with affecting versions bolstered by his distinctive baritone vocals. Information: TimeLife.com.

Artist: Little Richard

Title: The Second Coming; Lifetime Friend (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Little Richard, Prince, Sly Stone

Tell me more: Omnivore Recordings is a treasure, continuing to issue expanded and remastered lost classics from under-the-radar and well-known heroes. Look no further than the Los Angeles label's expanded reissues of Little Richard's 1970s and '80s albums; 1972's The Second Coming and 1986's Lifetime Friend arrived on Oct. 23 and were well worth the wait. The Second Coming commences with a celebration of Little Richard's rip-it-up '50s rock sound but bolstered by '70s production techniques; "Mockingbird Sally" features the artist pounding on the piano and searing vocals to match. He conjures up that pioneering approach later on "Rockin' Rockin' Boogie" and "Thomasine." Elsewhere, he explores funk (the freewheeling "Second Line" and "Nuki Suki"), '70s rock ("It Ain't What You Do, It's the Way How You Do It"), New Orleans R&B ("The Saints") and other styles via his signature sound. It doesn't hurt that producer Robert "Bumps" Blackwell used a number of studio musicians from the '50s as well as many top session players of the early '70s including to cut the album at the Record Plant in Los Angeles. This reissue features the original album release, two single edits from the period, and several tracks from the 1971 film "S" (starring Warren Beatty and Goldie Hawn) that were composed by Quincy Jones.

Following the release of his 1984 autobiography "The Quasar of Rock and Roll," Little Richard decided to come out of retirement and recorded Lifetime Friend, an LP which would ultimately serve as his final studio album of all new original material. Recorded in London and backed by a surefire cast including Billy Preston, guitarist Travis Wammack, bassist Jesse Boyce and drummer James Stroud, the album blends Richard's distinctive rock sound with spiritual lyrics. Listening to "Great Gosh A'Mighty" is to be again reminded how Richard's rousing style ultimately inspired a talented parade of artists to come ranging from the Beatles and Prince to Vintage Trouble. The album's standout track listing also includes the soulful "Operator" (single and extended edits of the cut are included as bonus tracks), gospel-tinged "Somebody's Comin'," catchy '80s-mining rocker "Destruction," New Wave 'n' soul delight "I Found My Way," the beautiful "One Ray of Sunshine" and explosive "Big House Reunion."

Packaging for both new Little Richard titles feature historical photographs, ephemera and a new essay from Bill Dahl. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler

Sights and Sounds: Royal Blood, Don McLean, Van Morrison, 'McCartney III' preview

 Music news aplenty going into the weekend including updates on Royal Blood (whose set blew away at Coachella back in 2015), Don McLean, and Paul McCartney's forthcoming album...Robert Kinsler

Royal Blood share new video for hit single "Trouble's Coming”

WATCH HERE

Royal Blood is Mike Kerr (vocals, keys, bass, piano)
and Ben Thatcher (drums).

October 23, 2020 (Los Angeles, CA) - Royal Blood are back. The taut rhythms and electrifying riffs that burst from their current hit single “Trouble’s Coming” herald a bold evolution in their sound as they stride confidently towards next year’s release of their highly anticipated third album. Click here to view and share the video. Click here to stream the track.

Just weeks after its release, it’s already approaching 6 million streams. The duo landed on the cover of ROCK THIS, Spotify’s flagship global rock playlist, while breaking the Top 20 at the Alternative and Active Rock formats in the US. Add support from alternative radio everywhere, plus global media attention spanning Rolling Stone, NME, Spin, Clash and much more. Royal Blood are set to make the biggest impact of an all-conquering career.

Today, Royal Blood share the official video for “Trouble’s Coming.” Their granite-heavy bass and drums attack is now flavored by insistent grooves inspired by Daft Punk, Justice and Phillipe Zdar. The video was directed by Dir. LX, best known for his work on U.K. rap and grime icons such as Dave, Bugzy Malone and Kojo Funds, and takes his cues from Mike Kerr’s ominous lyrics to create a video that pulsates with foreboding atmospherics and cinematic, neo-noir flair.

“Trouble’s Coming” proved to be the turning point in the creative process. It concisely tees up what to expect from the record: a very organic infusion of their visceral hard rock sting with a dance-tinged rhythm that grooves rather than pummels.

In the space of just two albums, Royal Blood have ascended to become one of the world’s biggest and most vital rock bands. The Brighton, England duo have scored two U.K. #1 albums - their self-titled double-Platinum, self-titled debut from 2014 and 2017’s How Did We Get So Dark? – in the process of selling 2 million albums worldwide. Their acclaim has included the BRIT Award for Best British Groupplus further accolades at the NME and Kerrang! Awards as well as a Mercury Prize nomination. What’s more, they’ve made a major international impact, hitting the Top 10 in a further seven territories and peaking at #2 on the U.S. Alternative Album chart. Further U.S. success has included three #1 hits at Rock Radio, plus four Top 20 records at Alternative Radio.

A huge draw in the live arena, Royal Blood’s most recent full-scale U.K. and Ireland headline tour saw them perform in front of 100,000 people, including 30,000 over three sold-out nights at London’s cavernous Alexandra Palace. Key festivals have included Coachella, Lollapalooza, Glastonbury (where they famously discovered, mid-set, that their second album had debuted at #1), Reading and Leeds Festivals. Highlights of their extensive international touring include huge North American tours with Queens of the Stone Age and Foo Fighters, plus headline shows as far afield as Los Angeles, Tokyo and Sydney.

Don McLean releases new album 'Still Playin' Favorites'

A follow-up to his 1973 covers album 'Playin' Favorites', this new collection digs deep into the roots of American music and adds a rock and roll edge to country, folk, gospel, bluegrass, blues, jazz, and soul gems

FAIRFAX, Va. - Don McLean pays homage to American music with his new covers album, Still Playin’ Favorites, released today through Time Life. Spanning more than 100 years of songwriting, McLean assembled a treasury of music from country, folk, gospel, bluegrass, blues, jazz and soul for the album, performing them with a rock and roll twist. Don discusses several of the tracks in a new video series on his YouTube channel, including “Backwater Blues,” originally recorded by Bessie Smith in 1927. “I just love writing songs and I love hearing songs by good writers that make sense and have lyrics that say something and that are pretty simple,” Don explains about the concept behind the album. “My version is just a little bit more rock and roll, a little harder-edged, with drums and double guitars,” he goes on to say about the classic blues and jazz song, “Backwater Blues.” When it came to recording “Got The Bull By The Horns,” originally performed by Johnny Horton, “I changed a few of the words, I hope he won’t mind,” McLean admits good-naturedly. The collection also features songs made famous by Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Clyde Moody, Mel Tillis, Ray Charles, Mahalia Jackson, Elvis Presley, and more. Still Playin’ Favorites is modeled after his first album of cover songs, Playin’ Favorites, a remarkable artistic statement for a young songwriter to release on the heels of his masterworks “American Pie” and “Vincent.” The new album extends his original tribute to the great songwriters who have helped shape American music and, in turn, McLean’s work. To keep up with Don McLean and be a part of his upcoming announcements, visit his website and follow his social channels linked below. Still Playin' Favorites track listing: 01. So Doggone Lonesome (Johnny Cash) 02. Greenback Dollar (Hoyt Axton, Ken Ramsey) 03. Hide Nor Hair (Morton Craft, Percy Mayfield) 04. I Ain’t Never (Webb Pierce, Mel Tillis) 05. Little Sister (Doc Pomus, Mort Shuman) 06. I’m Going To Live The Life I Sing About in My Song (Thomas A. Dorsey) 07. Six White Horses (Clyde Moody) 08. Treat Me Nice (Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller) 09. Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I’ll Go Mine) (Bob Dylan) 10. Backwater Blues (Bessie Smith) 11. The Keys to the Kingdom (Jenny Lou Carson) 12. Got The Bull By The Horns (Amos E. Byrd, Billy Jones) 13. Tell Old Bill (Traditional, Arranged by Don McLean) 14. She Used To Love Me A Lot (Charles W. Quillen, Dennis Morgan, Kye Fleming)   YouTube | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website About Don McLean: Don McLean is a Grammy award honoree, a Songwriter Hall of Fame member, a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, and his smash hit “American Pie” resides in the Library of Congress National Recording Registry and was named by the Recording Industry of America (RIAA) a top 5 song of the 20th Century. A New York native, Don McLean is one of the most revered and respected songwriters in American history. After paying his dues in the New York club scene in the late ‘60s, he went on to score mega-hits like “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night),” “Castles in the Air” and many more. His catalog of songs has been recorded by Madonna, Garth Brooks, Josh Groban, Drake, Weird “Al” Yankovic, and countless others. In 2015, one of McLean’s four handwritten manuscripts of the lyrics to “American Pie” was auctioned by Christies, selling for just over $1.2 Million. 2019 honored Don with a star on the Las Vegas Walkway of Stars and his song “And I Love You So” was the theme for Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s wedding. Now in 2020, Don signed a recording contract with Time Life to release his catalog of recordings as well as the highly anticipated new album Still Playin’ Favorites, releasing October 23rd. “American Pie” will be featured in the Avengers Black Widow and the Tom Hanks movie BIOS and much more to be announced. And when you think things are slowing down, not so for Don McLean! 2021 will mark the 50th anniversary of American Pie with a world tour to follow. Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Van Morrison shares 'No More Lockdown,' anti-lockdown original protest song

Rock Cellar magazine has a timely update and link to hear the newly-released blues-flavored track "No More Lockdown" from legendary great Van Morrison you can see HERE. The lyrics for the hard-hitting song taking a swipe at government overreach are also included on the post.

'McCartney III' update via Music Worth Buying co-host TJR

TJR has a new video preview on Paul McCartney's forthcoming album McCartney III that you can see via his YouTube channel HERE. 

Sights and Sounds: Buddy Holly, The Dixie Dregs, Chris Stapleton, First Aid Kit

Lots of exciting music news to share today...

RAVE ON: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY TO BE RELEASED VIA EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT  ON DIGITAL FORMATS ONLY ~DECEMBER 1, 2017~

New York, NY (December 1, 2017)—One of the most influential Rock and Roll artists of all time, Buddy Holly embossed the music world with an incredible body of music in his all-too-brief career, before his untimely death at the age of 22. Rave On: The Buddy Holly Story, which will be released via Digital Formats by Eagle Rock Entertainment on December 1, traces and celebrates his legacy. Rave On: The Buddy Holly Story, produced by 1515 Productions, explores Holly’s life and story via interviews with those who knew and worked with him, as well as prominent music fans who were influenced by his work. The film presents contributions from Jerry Allison (original member of The Crickets), Dion, Brian May (Queen), Don McLean, Paul Anka, Edna Gundersen (USA Today), Larry and Travis Holley (Buddy’s brothers), and Holly’s widow, Maria Elena Holly, as well as others. Hailing from Lubbock, TX, Buddy Holly introduced a revolutionary take on melodies and rhythms that stretched beyond the traditional blues roots of Rock and Roll. In the 1950s age of solo stars, Holly led his pop group The Crickets with a songwriting approach that pushed pop music to new creative heights, as evidenced by his breakthrough hit “That’ll Be The Day”, “Peggy Sue”, “Everyday”, and his other classics. With his thick-rimmed glasses, lanky stature and “hiccupping” vocalizations, Holly presented a new, unique image and sound that cemented his status as an icon. Buddy Holly’s life was tragically cut short in a plane crash in February 1959. However, the musical imprint he left in the mere 18 months after the release of “That’ll Be The Day” rendered him immortal. His story deserves to be told again for a new generation, which Rave On: The Buddy Holly Story proudly delivers. THE DIXIE DREGS GEAR UP FOR THE NATIONAL "DAWN OF THE DREGS" U.S. TOUR STARTING FEBRUARY 28 RECENTLY REUNITED ORIGINAL LINEUP TO PERFORM TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 40 YEARS SIX-TIME GRAMMY®-NOMINATED BAND TO MAKE STOPS IN ATLANTA, NEW YORK, BOSTON, PITTSBURGH, CLEVELAND, CHICAGO, PHOENIX, AND DALLAS, AMONG MANY OTHERS TICKETS ON SALE NOW Critically acclaimed and six-time GRAMMY®-Award nominated musical virtuosos, THE DIXIE DREGS (a.k.a The Dregs), are gearing up for a national U.S. tour starting February 28. The performances will mark the first time in 40 years the original band--Steve Morse (guitar), Andy West (bass), Allen Sloan (violin), Steve Davidowski (keyboards) and Rod Morgenstein(drums)--will share the stage. Tickets are on sale now.   The "DAWN OF THE DREGS" 25-date tour--with additional dates to be announced soon--will take the band across the country starting on February 28 in Clearwater, FL and make stops in Atlanta, Charleston, Washington D.C., New York City, Boston, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Chicago, Milwaukee, Boulder and Phoenix, among many others,before wrapping April 25 inDallas, TX. For more information about the "DAWN OF THE DREGS" tour and to purchase tickets, visit:http://dixiedregs.com/.     "This tour is the result of the overwhelming requests we've received from a loyal audience of diehard Dregheads, and new fans who have never seen us perform live, but discovered the band for the first time through Steve's membership in Deep Purple, or Rod as the drummer for Winger," said Dreg'sbassist, Andy West. "We can't wait to playfor them all," adds West.   For guitar aficionados, Steve Morse needs no introduction, and his place in the pantheon of guitar greats is certain. But in fact, his career started with the DIXIE DREGS. The band traces its true beginnings to the band Dixie Grit, which started in a Georgia high school with Steve on guitar and Andy West on bass. Dixie Grit morphed into the DIXIE DREGS at the University of Miami School of Music, where Allen Sloan (violin) and Rod Morgenstein (drums) joined up with Steve and Andy, who were the "dregs" of Dixie Grit.   The members of the DIXIE DREGS remained committed to attending the University of Miami School of Music, which hosted a lively and talented musical community during their tenure, including future greats Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius, T Lavitz, and Bruce Hornsby, among manyothers. In 1975, the group's demo album, The Great Spectacular, was recorded at the University of Miami and then re-released on CD in 1997.   After graduation, the band moved back to Augusta where Steve Davidowski(keyboards) completed the band. The band paid its dues and honed its skills playing in bars and venues throughout the South in the mid-70's. They established themselves in the firmament of American instrumental music, seamlessly fusing rock with progressive and jazz elements to create a uniquely instrumental-driven style that has stood the test of time.   Based on a short demo and a tip from former Allman Brothers keyboardist Chuck Leavell along with legendary Allman/Dregs tour manager Twiggs Lyndon, Capricorn Records signed the DIXIE DREGS to record Free Fall(1977). The success and critical acclaim of Free Fall announced the DIXIE DREGS to the world, and after its release, they would become a cult-favorite band that would have a lasting influence on much of modern rock.   Catch DIXIE DREGS on the road in the following cities with more to be announced:   DATE                         CITY                                       VENUE Wed    2/28                Clearwater, FL                      Capitol Theatre Thu     3/1                   Ponte Vedra Beach, FL      Ponte Vedra Concert Hall Fri       3/2                   Augusta, GA                         Bell Auditorium Sat      3/3                   Atlanta, GA                            Center Stage Mon    3/5                   Charleston, SC                    Charleston Music Hall Tue     3/6                   Durham, NC                         Carolina Theater Wed    3/7                   Washington, DC                  Lincoln Theater Thu     3/8                   Wilmington, DE                    The Grand Opera House Fri       3/9                   Collingswood, NJ                Scottish Rite Auditorium Sat      3/10                Newton, NJ                           Newton Theater Wed    3/14                Ridgefield, CT                      Ridgefield Playhouse Thu     3/15                Huntington, NY                    The Paramount Fri       3/16                New York, NY                       Town Hall Sat      3/17                Woodstock, NY                     Bearsville Theater Mon    3/19                Boston, MA                           Wilbur Theater Wed    3/21                Albany, NY                            The Egg Thu     3/22                Pittsburgh, PA                      Carnegie Music Hall Fri       3/23                Cleveland, OH                      Kent Stage Sat      3/24                Chicago, IL                            The Vic Theater Wed    4/11                Milwaukee, WI                      Pabst Theater Sat      4/14                Boulder, CO                          Boulder Theatre Fri       4/20                San Juan Capistrano, CA  The Coach House Sat      4/21                Agoura Hills, CA                  The Canyon Club Sun    4/22                Phoenix, AZ                          Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Wed    4/25                Dallas, TX                              House of Blues   For more information on THE DIXIE DREGS, visit: http://dixiedregs.com/ https://www.facebook.com/TheDixieDregs/ CHRIS STAPLETON’S FROM A ROOM: VOLUME 2 OUT TODAY  “SUNDAY TODAY WITH WILLIE GEIST,” “JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE!” AND “THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW” CONFIRMED NOMINATED FOR THREE GRAMMY AWARDS Chris Stapleton’s From A Room: Volume 2 is out today on Mercury Records Nashville (purchase digitally and with exclusive limited-edition bundles). Already receiving widespread acclaim, NPR Music praises, “…folding these songs into his repertoire lends greater emotional weight to his entire body of work…It’s no wonder so many fans have come to count him as a musical hero.”  In celebration of the release, Stapleton will appear on this Sunday’s “Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist” and will perform on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” next Monday, December 4 and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” on Wednesday, December 6. The release of From A Room: Volume 2 follows the May 1 release of From A Room: Volume 1, which remains the #1 best-selling country album of 2017 (Stapleton’s 2015 double-platinum solo debut, Traveller, is currently the #2 best-selling country album of the year). Released to overwhelming acclaim, Rolling Stone recently named Volume 1 one of their “50 Best Albums of 2017” declaring, “…the supremely talented singer doesn't rest on old laurels. These performances crackle and pop with new energy.” Additionally, Stapleton recently won Album of the Year (From A Room: Volume 1) and Male Vocalist of the Year at The 51st Annual CMA Awards and is nominated for three awards at the 60th GRAMMY Awards—Best Country Album (From A Room: Volume 1), Best Country Song (“Broken Halos”) and Best Country Solo Performance (“Either Way”). Both Volume 1 and Volume 2 take their name from Nashville’s historic RCA Studio A (the capital “A” in “From A Room”) where they were recorded with Grammy Award-winning producer Dave Cobb. Along with Stapleton on vocals and guitar and Cobb on acoustic guitar, the album features Morgane Stapleton on harmony vocals as well as longtime band-members J.T. Cure on bass and Derek Mixon on drums. See below for complete track list. FROM A ROOM: VOLUME 2 TRACK LIST: 1. Millionaire (Kevin Welch) 2. Hard Livin’ (Chris Stapleton, Kendell Marvel) 3. Scarecrow In The Garden (Chris Stapleton, Brice Long, Matt Fleener) 4. Nobody’s Lonely Tonight (Chris Stapleton, Mike Henderson) 5. Tryin’ To Untangle My Mind (Chris Stapleton, Jaron Boyer, Kendell Marvel) 6. A Simple Song (Chris Stapleton, Darrell Hayes) 7. Midnight Train To Memphis (Chris Stapleton, Mike Henderson) 8. Drunkard’s Prayer (Chris Stapleton, Jameson Clark) 9. Friendship (Homer Banks, Lester Snell) CHRIS STAPLETON 2018 CONFIRMED TOUR DATES March 17—Durant, OK—Choctaw Grand Theater March 24—Laughlin, NV—Laughlin Event Center March 25—Tempe, AZ—Innings Festival May 26—Daytona, FL—Country 500 May 27—New Orleans, LA—Bayou Country Superfest June 23—Arlington, TX—AT&T Stadium* (SOLD OUT) *supporting The Eagles First Aid Kit shares new song  “FIREWORKS”   DUO’S FOURTH STUDIO ALBUM RUINS TO BE RELEASED JANUARY 19, AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW   2018 HEADLINE TOUR KICKS OFF JANUARY 24, TICKETS ON SALE HERE Today First Aid Kit released “Fireworks,” the latest track from their forthcoming album Ruins – listen here. First Aid Kit says: "We're so excited to finally share ‘Fireworks.’ It's a track that we put a lot of emotions into. We love the arrangement we created for it with our producer Tucker Martine, borrowing from classic 50's ballads and mixing it with Twin Peaks-guitars and synths. It's a song about the ideals you set for yourself in life and how they can break you down, leaving you all alone at the end. "   “Fireworks” Lyric Video Embed: First Aid Kit will release Ruins, their fourth studio album, on January 19 via Columbia Records. Produced by Tucker Martine (My Morning Jacket, Laura Veirs), the album was recorded in Portland, OR where the duo collaborated with amazing musicians — REM’s Peter Buck, Wilco’s Glenn Kotche, and Midlake’s McKenzie Smith. Ruins is available for pre-order now and includes lead single “It’s A Shame” as well as “Postcard” and “Fireworks.” See full tracklisting below. First Aid Kit will embark on a 2018 North American headline tour, kicking off January 24 at the Fox Theatre in Oakland and continuing through a final night at New York City’s Beacon Theatre, with Van William supporting. Tickets are on sale now, visit http://www.firstaidkitband.com/ for more information. The band toured the U.S. this fall, having performed at both Austin City Limits and San Francisco’s Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festivals, check out their performance of “It’s A Shame” at ACL HERE. First Aid Kit also played additional shows in Los Angeles and Austin before ending their US trip with a sold-out show at New York City’s Town Hall. Ruins follows the 2014 release of Stay Gold, a lush and ambitious 10-song collection that beautifully captures the duo's vivid storytelling, landing First Aid Kit countless “Best of 2014” accolades. Earlier this spring, First Aid Kit also released a stand-alone single on International Women’s Day entitled "You Are The Problem Here."  It is an empowered, passionate, and angry song that confronts the rape culture epidemic, with a portion of proceeds donated to Women for Women International. RUINS TRACKLISTING: Rebel Heart It's a Shame Fireworks Postcard To Live a Life My Wild Sweet Love Distant Star Ruins Hem of Her Dress Nothing Has to Be True FIRST AID KIT ON TOUR:  01/24   Oakland, CA               Fox Theater 01/26   Portland, OR               Roseland Theater* 01/27   Vancouver, BC           Vogue Theatre* 01/28   Seattle, WA                 Moore Theatre* 01/30   Minneapolis, MN         Palace Theatre* 02/01   Nashville, TN              Ryman Auditorium* 02/02   Chicago, IL                  Riviera Theatre* 02/03   Detroit, MI                   Saint Andrew’s Hall* 02/05   Toronto, ON                Danforth Music Hall* 02/06   Montreal, QC              Metropolis Concert Hall* 02/07   Boston, MA                 House of Blues* 02/09   Washington, DC          Lincoln Theatre* 02/10   Philadelphia, PA          Union Transfer* 02/13   New York, NY             Beacon Theatre* *Van William Supporting