New Music: Dr. Dog, Bobbo Byrnes, Zac Harmon, Blue Öyster Cult

Music lovers are in luck! New audio titles featuring alternative favorites Dr. Dog, singer-songwriter Bobbo Byrnes, award-winning blues artist Zac Harmon and classic rock heroes Blue Öyster Cult are available now.

Artist: Dr. Dog

Title: Dr. Dog (We Buy Gold Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Ozomatli, Other Lives, Phosphorescent

Tell me more: Genre-defying collective Dr. Dog is back with their 11th studio album, the self-titled Dr. Dog. A true contemporary masterpiece, the album marks the Philadelphia-based band's first new album in six long years. The good news is the 11-track LP fully delivers on the acclaimed troupe's winning approach at blending any number of styles flawlessly in support of bewitching originals. The luxurious "Lost Ones," dance-minded and decidedly eclectic "Fat Dog," immersive "Talk is Cheap" and dreamy "What a Night'll Do" are early nuggets on the set, while the wistful "Still Can't Believe," jazzy "Fine White Lies," scintillating "White Dove" and alt Americana foray "Handyman" thrill on the album's last half. The quintet's bold five-part vocal harmonies and artful musicianship make this a must-hear for discerning listeners. Information: drdogmusic.com.

Artist: Bobbo Byrnes

Title: Bobbo Byrnes (Highway Five Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Jayhawks, Rhett Miller, Toad the Wet Sprocket

Tell me more: Celebrated Americana singer-songwriter Bobbo Byrnes is back with a new full-length album that reminds listeners about the importance of great song craft, a compelling artistic vision and the undeniable magic that happens when great players create magic in a recording studio. Bobbo Byrnes is an 11-track collection that showcases the power of Byrnes' best work with the Fallen Stars and conjures up memories of great songs from top-tier acts such as Toad the Wet Sprocket, the Jayhawks and Rhett Miller. Memorable cuts on this modern-day masterwork include the spirited opener "Around Here," resonant "Long Way Down," breezy "Plain Street," the shimmering rocker "Never Learned to Fly," alt country rocker "Some Salvation" and ambitious genre-defying "Not Lost"; I have been particularly smitten by "I Cannot Say," a bewitching rocker co-written by Ben Riddle that is as haunting as it is contagious. Information: BobboByrnes.com.

Artist: Zac Harmon

Title: Floreada's Boy (Catfood Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Eric Clapton, Robert Cray

Tell me more: Acclaimed artist Zac Harmon is back courtesy of his wonderful full-length disc Floreada's Boy, a 12-track set that showcases his talents as singer, songwriter and guitar master in spades. A native of Jackson, Mississippi, Harmon's album is truly a celebration of blues and American music — what's more he brings welcome modern elements into his far-flung songcraft. The wide range of top-notch material includes the blues-fueled mid tempo opener "Babe and Ricky's Inn" (bolstered by Harmon's spoken word delivery), the funk-styled "Glass Ceiling," '70-tinged R&B foray "Let It Slide," soulful "That's the Way I Feel About Cha," blues standout "Sugarman" (the latter featuring the Texas Horns) and jazzy blues sortie closer "Stop The Killing," the latter bolstered by the signature guitar work of Caleb Quaye. In addition to the contributions of his backing band The Drive, guest artists on the album include the aforementioned Quaye and Texas Horns, as well as acoustic guitarist Gregg Wright, multi-instrumentalist Christopher Troy and singer SueAnn Carwell. Information: catfoodrecords.com and zacharmon.com.

Artist: Blue Öyster Cult

Title: 50th Anniversary Live — Second Night (Frontiers Music s.r.l.)

You might like if you enjoy: Blue Öyster Cult, Metallica, 70s classic rock

Tell me more: It's great to see Blue Öyster Cult continue to issue outstanding titles celebrating the band's incredible 50-year legacy. In September 2022, BÖC thrilled fans with a unique trilogy of sold-out shows, each dedicated to one of their first three albums. 

Released by Frontiers Music on Aug. 9, 50th Anniversary Live — Second Night, is a marathon-length live concert recording featuring the Long Island, New York-spawned rock outfit performing top-tier material from across their celebrated career. From the high octane opener "The Red & The Black" and blues-mining rocker "O.D.'d On Life Itself," founding members Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser (lead vocals, guitar), Eric Bloom (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) along with long-time members Richie Castellano (keyboards, lead guitar), Danny Miranda (bass) and Jules Radino (drums) deliver inspired and fiery versions of their groundbreaking sound fusing acid and psychedelic rock with progressive, stoner and hard rock. 

50th Anniversary Live — Second Night features BÖC performing their sophomore album Tyranny and Mutation in its entirety (including the dazzling "Screaming Diz-Busters" showcasing Roeser's virtuoso guitar work) to begin the concert before delving into selections pulled from across their discography. Highlights include the luxurious "Wings Wetted Down," melodic "Box In My Head," thunderous "Godzilla," the infectious harmonies-adorned "Burnin' For You," evocative "Perfect Water" and intoxicating "(Don't Fear) The Reaper." 50th Anniversary Live — Second Night, is available on vinyl and on audio CD. Information: BlueOysterCult.com.

Robert Kinsler

Blue Öyster Cult Legend Buck Dharma Releases New Single/Video “End of Every Song”

Check out the new single from singer-songwriter/guitar great Buck Dharma available now. The song and official music video are deeply affecting...Robert Kinsler

Media release

Blue Oyster Cult Legend Buck Dharma Releases New Single/Video “End of Every Song”

Buck Dharma, the writer, vocalist and lead guitarist of Blue Öyster Cult’s “Don’t Fear The Reaper,” Burnin’ For You” and “Godzilla,” has released his first solo multimedia creation in decades.

“End of Every Song” is a fascinating, disturbing and deeply moving audio and video journey. Follow as Buck chronicles the highs and lows of his life, and our lives, with his band, his family, friends and loved ones.

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fo_GpeJoIrY

Available immediately wherever music is streamed or sold. Complete audio and video credits, and the story of everybody in the video: endofeverysong.com

Rock 'n' Roll Royalty Revisited

This week I get to champion a handful of my favorite classic rock artists, all of whom are featured on new must-have full-length releases.

Artist: Neil Young
Title: Homegrown (Reprise Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Neil Young, Nils Lofgren, Bob Dylan
Tell me more: When it comes to tales of long lost musical treasures, it's tough to beat the backstory of Neil Young's latest offering Homegrown released on June 19. Originally set for release in 1975, Homegrown was recorded between June 1974 and January 1975. Indeed, Young himself cancelled the initial commercial release of Homegrown. Is the album worth the more than 45-year wait? To be sure. Things commence with the wonderfully-ragged "Separate Ways," a mix of rootsy rock and alternative country stylings. A feel good and positive "Try" follows, a romantic invitation whose lyricism is the equal of the track's sweet-tempered grace. Another joyful standout is "White Line," where Young's acoustic delivery is enhanced by some sweet lead guitar work from Robbie Robertson sprinkled artfully throughout. A quiet and inviting "Star of Bethlehem," embellished with Young's gentle harmonica play and additional lovely vocals from Emmylou Harris bolster the LP closer. The overall feel and tone of the album is alt country, with Young mixing that soundscape with injections of the blues ("We Don't Smoke It No More"), spoken word narration ("Florida"), rock ("Vacancy") and folk ("Kansas"). "Mexico" and "Little Wing" — songs that Young delivers alone — are particularly affecting. There is a profound elegance displayed via the songs, stellar musicianship and the resplendent sound of the 12 memorable tracks lovingly restored from the original master tapes by John Hanlon. Information: NeilYoungArchives.com.

Artists: Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks
Title: Orange Crate Art (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Brian Wilson, The Beach Boys, Burt Bacharach
Tell me more: Fans of The Beach Boys' most adventuresome music will want to get the wonderful 25th anniversary reissue of Orange Crate Art, the ambitious 1994 collaboration between icon Brian Wilson and producer-arranger Van Dyke Parks. It is a wonderful companion to 2011's The Smile Sessions, a project that completed the Beach Boys album SMiLE (that was originally recorded in 1966 and 1967 but never completed; that LP was composed by Wilson with Dyke Parks providing the lyrics). Orange Crate Art features a collection of genre-defying songs penned by Parks, who recruited Wilson back into the studio to sing the songs; this was no easy task since Wilson was coached to sing lead vocals and all harmony vocals on the songs (just listen to "Palm Tree and Moon" and "Summer in Monterey"). This is an outstanding album of songs that collectively celebrate the mythical Southern California of yesterday; the Baroque pop title track, Beach Boys-flavored "Sail Away" and lounge chamber pop "My Hobo Heart" are early highlights. The artful rocker "San Francisco," Calypso-tinged "Hold Back Time," orchestral pop gem "Movies Is Magic" and Americana mining "This Town Goes Down at Sunset" capture the bold and zealous spirit of this truly original and captivating title. The end of the first disc includes three previously-unissued session outtakes. A second disc on the 2-CD package features 11 instrumental versions of the songs heard on the first disc. Orange Crate Art is available as a 2-CD or 2-LP vinyl set. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Blue Öyster Cult
Title: iHeart Radio Theater N.Y.C. 2012 (Frontiers Music s.r.l.)
You might like if you enjoy: Rush, Asia, Blue Öyster Cult
Tell me more: Blue Öyster Cult's performance at iHeartRadio Theater in New York City on Dec. 17, 2012 was staged before an intimate setting of 200 fans as part of a special concert in connection with the band's 40th Anniversary and release of a boxset The Columbia Albums Collection. Fortunately the special webcast was also captured by high-res video cameras and state-of-the-art recording equipment for the newly-released iHeart Radio Theater N.Y.C. 2012. The rock quintet (singer-lead guitarist Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, singer-guitarist Eric Bloom, guitarist-keyboardist Richie Castellano, bassist Kasim Sulton and drummer Jules Radino) opens with the blistering "R U Ready 2 Rock" and never looks back, delivering up powerful and convincing versions of many of the troupe's most beloved originals. Blending progressive and psychedelic rock styles, early highlights include the dynamic "Golden Age of Leather," an extended take on the infectious hit "Burnin' For You" and heavy metal favorite "This Ain't the Summer of Love." Later Blue Öyster Cult escalates the concert's power quotient with the lead guitar-anchored rocker "Shooting Shark," hard rocker "Cities On Flame with Rock and Roll," the enthralling prog rocker "The Vigil," and bona fide rock radio classics "Godzilla" and "(Don't Fear) The Reaper." The band's blend of virtuoso musicianship, creative and full harmonies and unflinching song craft make for a powerful presention across the title. iHeart Radio Theater N.Y.C. 2012 is available via audio CD/DVD, Blu-ray and vinyl formats. Information: BlueOysterCult.com.

Artist: Bob Dylan

Title: Rough and Rowdy Ways (Columbia)

You might like if you enjoy: Bob Dylan, Michael Ubaldini, Bruce Springsteen
Tell me more: Rough and Rowdy Ways is Bob Dylan's first album of original material in eight years, and first new full-length release since he received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016 "for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition." At 79, the legendary Duluth, Minnesota native still has plenty of important things to say. Look no further than the much-discussed "Murder Most Foul," a track that fully chronicles the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. Dylan's fierce observations are delivered with a well-aged raspy baritone and beautifully framed by an acoustic piano and the embellishment of strings. But to hear the 17-minute opus as only a snapshot of that tragic moment in Dallas is to miss Dylan's ability to tap into the fears and profound sadness that greeted the nation with the murder of Kennedy, as well as a myriad of cultural and historical references that boost the poetic ride. Followers of Dylan know there is often a mystery to his enigmatic songs adorned with literary citations, and that is the case here. The blues-stamped "False Prophet" and "My Own Version of You," vulnerable ballad "I've Made Up My Mind to Give Myself to You," gorgeous "Mother of Muses" and countrified "Goodbye Jimmy Reed" are involving and thought-provoking songs in the tradition of his best work and are worth many repeated listens to be sure. Information: BobDylan.com.




Robert Kinsler

New Music: Tinsley Ellis, G. Love, Blue Öyster Cult,

Several of this writer's favorite blues and rock artists have returned with essential new listens. What's more, legendary rockers Blue Öyster Cult are back with a terrific new full-length concert release as well as a reissue featuring stellar versions of many of their best-known classics.

Artist: Tinsley Ellis
Title: Ice Cream In Hell (Alligator Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Freddie King, Eric Clapton, Albert King
Tell me more: Blues rock great Tinsley Ellis is as true triple threat, able to play electric guitar, sing and write songs with a master's touch. Thus, his latest studio collection Ice Cream In Hell cements the Atlanta, Georgia native's well-earned role as a leading member of the contemporary blues scene and one of the genre's greatest living proponents. Opening with the blistering Albert King-styled "Last One To Know," his heavy baritone voice delivers vocal lines amidst his own persuasive guitar lines, that musical dance culminating with a mighty solo that closes out the track. He explores other reaches of his Southern blues-minded universe, including via the frisky "Don't Know Beans," the B.B. King-mining title track and "Foolin' Yourself," and affecting "Your Love's Like Heroin" are among the scorching cuts on the disc. Across the 11-track album Ellis is firmly in command and further defines his signature style for all to hear. If you are in Southern California, make sure to catch Ellis on tour this winter; he has dates at The Canyon in Agoura Hills on Feb. 27, The Rose in Pasadena on March 5, and at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on March 8. Information: TinsleyEllis.com.

Artist: G. Love
Title: The Juice (Philadelphonic/Thirty Tigers)
You might like if you enjoy: Tommy Castro, Marcus King, Keb' Mo'
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist G. Love (aka Garrett Dutton) has released The Juice, a Keb' Mo'-produced LP featuring several high-profile guests who add authentic magic to the glorious proceedings. The album finds G. Love singing, delivering spoken word and fusing gospel vocals, blues guitar, funk, hip hop and more into a musical stew that thrills at every turn. The talented Marcus King guests on the cool title track, a Delta blues-meets-gospel gem with a bouncy flow. "Soul-B-Que" is a funky romp adorned by blues harp, G. Love's signature rapid-fire vocal approach and stylish work of guest pedal steel guitar player Roosevelt Collier. Keb' Mo' takes advantage of his collaborations as well, notably on the playful blues funk turn "Go Crazy." Keb' Mo' and pedal steel guitar great Robert Randolph both show up for "Birmingham," a driving folk rocker enhanced by the star power. Hawaiian artist Ron Artis II joins G. Love on the breezy "Diggin' Roots," an acoustic nugget with a sing-along chorus and good vibes in sync with the sound across The Juice. Information: ThirtyTigers.com.

Artist: Blossoms
Title: Foolish Loving Spaces (Virgin Int'l)
You might like if you enjoy: Keane, Phoenix
Tell me more: England's celebrated indie pop quintet Blossoms has a knack for tapping into tuneful, dance floor-ready impulses across their third full-length release Foolish Loving Spaces. There is a buoyant and enlivening spirit across this album's 10 triumphant songs. The soulful gospel-injected "The Keeper" is a particularly joyful listen, while the catchy "Real Life" and "Your Girlfriend" lyrically delve into the realities of life getting in the ways of youth-driven romantic infatuation. The sleek sounds of the immersive "My Swimming Brain," synth pop shine of "Romance, Eh?" and disco-tinged "Sunday Was a Friend of Mine" are among my other faves on a fantastic return. Information: www.blossomsband.co.uk.

Artist: Blue Öyster Cult
Titles: Cult Classic; Hard Rock Live Cleveland 2014 (Frontiers Music s.r.l.)
You might like if you enjoy: Blue Öyster Cult, Rush, Asia
Tell me more: In early December 2019 I caught Blue Öyster Cult as the groundbreaking rock troupe delivered a powerful and inspired concert at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano. The quintet's much-deserved reputation as a must-see live act is certifed via two newly-released collections out now. Cult Classic is the 12th studio album from the New York-spawned band. Originally issued in 1994, the 14-track disc features updated recordings of BOC's biggest hits including the enthralling "Don't Fear The Reaper," infectious "Burning For You" and undeniably fun "Godzilla." Beyond the band's timeless hits is a palpable pull that casts a welcome appreciation of the bona fide talents of the group; the psychedelic-tinged heavy rockers ""This Ain't The Summer of Love" and "Flaming Telepaths" are bolstered by lush harmonies. Elsewhere the blues-rocker "O.D.'D On Life Itself," literate prog rocker "Astronomy" and heavy metal rocker "Cities On Flame With Rock 'N' Roll" convincingly captivate. And everywhere across the collection listeners are treated to killer guitar work from Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser (just listen to the dazzling instrumental "Buck's Boogie"). The reissue comes remastered and with updated artwork. 

Hard Rock Live Cleveland 2014 is a stellar two-hour concert recording available in several fan-friendly formats including 2CD + DVD, vinyl, and Blu-ray (this writer was provided the digital audio stream for review). BOC explodes out of the gate with "O.D.'D On Life Itself," the first of 17 selections that collectively embrace the troupe's parade of hits as well as far-flung cuts that capture BOC's diverse forays into blues, hard rock, progressive rock and experimental veins. "The Red and the Black" is one of those great tracks that is dizzying, somehow combining Celtic, classic rock and guitar-centered rock (including tandem fret play from Roeser and Richie Castellano); a six-minute take on "Golden Age of Leather" is launched with lush a cappella vocals and weaves its way through distinctive sections (including riff rock, progressive, and Byrds-like vocal harmonies) all perfect in their relation to the others. While the potent versions of the band's radio hits is a surefire draw, the inviting takes on the sumptuous 9-minute gem "Shooting Shark," bewitching "The Vigil," lovely "I Love The Night" and rollicking "ME 262" are among the other sonic attractions that make "Hard Rock Live Cleveland 2014" a welcome addition to any rock lover's library. The 10-minute-plus masterwork "Then Came The Last Days of May" is another standout track on the title, enhanced by a nuanced arrangement and fiery musicianship that builds to an explosive crowd-pleasing finale. In addition to Roeser (lead guitar, lead vocals) and Castellano (keyboards, lead guitar, backing vocals), the lineup includes Eric Bloom (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards), Jules Radino (drums) and Kasim Sulton (bass guitar, backing vocals). Information: www.frontiers.it.




Robert Kinsler

Blue Öyster Cult thrills capacity crowd at the Coach House

Blue Öyster Cult performing at the Coach House on Dec. 7, 2019. Pictured from left, Eric Bloom,
Richie Castellano,  Donald 'Buck Dharma' Roeser and Danny Miranda.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Blue Öyster Cult, Justin Abrams & Beyond Conception
Where: The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA
When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019
Next: http://blueoystercult.com

After seeing Blue Öyster Cult tear it up in front of a capacity crowd at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Saturday night (Dec. 7, 2019), this writer was reminded (yet again!) why the band is one of the most influential and talented American rock groups to emerge out of the late 1960s. Yet while the New York-spawned troupe has sold more than 24 million records worldwide, contributed to the music video revolution in the early 1980s and continues to regularly tour, they have sadly never been nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 

Richie Castellano unleashing a solo at the Coach House.

But I predict history will land squarely on the side of BÖC, whose current lineup includes founding members Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser (lead vocals, lead guitar) and Eric Bloom (guitar, keyboards, lead vocals) along with long-time lead guitarist/keyboardist Richie Castellano, bassist-backing singer Danny Miranda and drummer Jules Radino. 

The band's 100-minute concert at the Coach House featured a stellar setlist featuring all their best-known radio hits, as well as deep cuts extending as far back as BÖC's 1972 self-titled debut album through the group's 1998 LP Heaven Forbid.

Buck Dharma conjuring up genuine magic during a sold out concert
at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019.

After coming out on stage at 9:15 p.m., the band unleashed the enduring rocker "The Red & the Black," Bloom handling lead vocals while Dharma displayed the first of many impressive guitar solos that would be showcased this night.

Eric Bloom at the Coach House.

BÖC's style may be rooted in progressive rock and early heavy metal, but trying to use any simple label to categorize the band is at odds with their rousing, wide-ranging performance in Orange County. Indeed, the quintet opened up "Golden Age of Leather" with a full-on a cappella segment where four members sang without any instrumental accompaniment to introduce the song. Dharma's strong lead vocals came amidst a creative and ambitious six-minute early standout.

"Burnin' for You" was one of the first great rock songs of the 1980s (as was the song's music video that received heavy rotation on MTV when the station premiered in 1981) and retains its magic decades later. On Saturday, the infectious track was bolstered by shining vocal harmonies and a driving edge layered with winning guitar textures. 

"Harvest Moon" was another standout with Bloom's keyboards and Dharma's expressive lead guitar work adding a sense of mystery to the song. At one point Dharma's guitar work was played sans backing from anyone else before the full band came in and his solo became more aggressive. Then Castellano did a solo before their lead work came in tandem for a dramatic explosion of sound.

Every selection performed offered an opportunity to catch another element of BÖC's progressive reach; "E.T.I. (Extra Terrestrial Intelligence)" blended hard rock and sumptuous harmonies; "Tattoo Vampire" juxtaposed Cheap Trick-styled power pop and Iggy Pop alt rock; "Godzilla" was a fun audience favorite with monster sound effects, an audience sing-along, Dharma's guitar sliding on a microphone stand and Miranda's bass solo among the far-flung details in play.

BÖC Drummer Jules Radino at the Coach House.

"(Don't Fear) The Reaper" is the band's best-known song and its performance was a highlight at the Coach House. Introducing the favorite with an extended Dharma solo, Castellano's textured keyboards and Radino's drums were subliminally added. The classic rocker itself was a wonder with its haunting soundscape coupled with virtuoso musicianship, masterful fret work and sharp vocal harmonies.

A 15-minute encore was a chance for BÖC to delve even deeper into their discography, performing "Flaming Telepaths," "Hot Rails to Hell" and the playful "Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll," the latter coming with an epic false ending that made the subsequent real finish all the stronger.

Opening for BÖC was local group Justin Abrams & Beyond Conception. Although a cover of Elton John's "Bennie and the Jets" was didn't resonate with me the outfit's originals were plenty of fun. The loose garage rocker "Stix & Stones" and New York-flavored rocker "Rip It Off" were particularly memorable. 

Review by Robert Kinsler

Photography by Bob Steshetz

Blue Öyster Cult performing at the Coach House on Dec. 7, 2019. Pictured from left,
Richie Castellano,  Eric Bloom, Donald 'Buck Dharma' Roeser, Jules Radino and Danny Miranda. 
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Blue Öyster Cult setlist at the Coach House on Saturday, December 7, 2019

Buck Dharma (guitar) and
Eric Bloom (keyboards) at the
Coach House on Dec. 7, 2019.

1. The Red & the Black 
2. Golden Age of Leather
3. Career of Evil
4. Burnin' for You
5. ME 262
6. Harvest Moon
7. Dancin' in the Ruins
8. E.T.I. (Extra Terrestrial Intelligence)
9. Buck's Boogie
10. Then Came the Last Days of May
11. Tattoo Vampire
12. Godzilla
13. Guitar solo (Buck Dharma)
14. (Don't Fear) The Reaper
ENCORE
15. Flaming Telepaths
16. Hot Rails to Hell
17. Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll

Blue Öyster Cult thrills capacity crowd at The Coach House

Blue Öyster Cult, from left, Eric Bloom, Richie Castellano,
Buck Dharma and Kasim Sulton.

Review by Robert Kinsler

Photos by Bob Steshetz

Blue Öyster Cult
With: Gun Boat Kings
Where: The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA
When: Friday night, March 31, 2017

Over the last few years I've been fortunate to catch Blue Öyster Cult in concert several times, but those occasions were either special industry showcases (most recently at the 2015 NAMM Show; see review here) or when BÖC was opening for another artist (see my review here of BÖC and Deep Purple bill at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa in summer 2014).

Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser impressed on both
lead vocals and lead guitar at The Coach House.

So when the chance came to catch the groundbreaking American hard rock troupe in a headlining role at the legendary Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Friday night, I knew I had to be there. The venue was packed and the excitement at seeing BÖC in a relatively intimate setting was palpable. 

This year marks the 50th anniversary of BÖC. Formed on Long Island, NY in 1967, the band was originally called Soft White Underbelly until 1971. As the quintet proved across its two-hour performance on Friday, BÖC has a rich and varied discography stretching back to the band's self-titled 1972 debut and continues to deliver top-tier performances. 

Jules Radino behind the kit.

The band's lineup includes Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser (lead guitar, lead vocals), Eric Bloom (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Jules Radino (drums), Richie Castellano (keyboards, lead guitar, backing vocals) and Kasim Sulton (bass, backing vocals). All made significant solo and collaborative contributions to the music making across the 17-song set.

After opening with a straight-forward rocking take on "The Red & the Black" and the satisfying prog rock-meets-hang banging "Golden Age of Leather" (complete with stellar vocal harmonies), the show's power quotient seemed to suddenly lift higher. "Burnin' For You" is one of the band's most beloved songs and soared this night. Dharma s distinctive lead vocals and lead guitar work, the lush mix of backing voices and the song's infectious and mysterious soundscape worked on a multitude of intoxicating levels. 

Richie Castellano at the Coach
House on March 31, 2017.

Another early highlight of the set included the '80s-styled synth foray "Shooting Shark," complete with Castellano and Dharma each playing multiple guitar solos; each of the sorties was very different and added depth to the song. Equally strong was "The Vigil," a bona fide masterwork that blended psychedelic and progressive rock styles, challenging vocal harmonies, and both tandem and solo guitar lines that were melodic and imaginative.

BÖC continued to unfurl one great song and one great performance after another. "Dancin' in the Ruins" was a melodic juggernaut, Castellano's keyboards and Dharma's emotive vocals layered atop the driving rhythm section. Old time rock 'n' roll ("ME 262," "Before the Kiss, a Redcap"), progressive rock (the ambitious "Then Came the Last Days of May"), melodic pop rock ("True Confessions") and post-punk rock ("Tattoo Vampire") offered up a masterclass in the importance of exploring new ground 

Eric Bloom in action at The Coach
House on March 31, 2017.

After thrilling the faithful with a powerful take of the band's 1977 hit "Godzilla," Dharma stood on the stage alone and performed a nuanced five-minute solo on his electric guitar. As the other band members filled in around him, he went into the iconic opening of "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" and BÖC simply lifted the audience to an even higher place.

The audience was not about to let the night end yet, and after an extended standing ovation, the band returned to perform a strong encore that was as potent as the regular set. "Perfect Water" was particularly powerful, a prog rocker with the characteristic mix of artful arrangement, wonderful musicianship and virtuoso musicianship that makes BÖC such a unique and treasured artist.

Opening for BÖC was the Gun Boat Kings, a six-man ensemble based in Southern California. The group impressed with a mix of original material that mixed up '70s-styled blues-rock, R&B, folk rock, jazz and soul. 

"Those Green Eyes" was an especially-strong song, a detailed and involving song that fused its run with a mix of soul, rock 'n' roll and R&B. "Angelina" was also convincing, recalling some of the strong cuts on Jefferson Starship's Red Octopus album with its jazzy and R&B flourishes.

Richie Castellano of BÖC.

Blue Öyster Cult setlist at The Coach House on March 31, 2017
The Red & the Black / Golden Age of Leather / Burnin' For You / Shooting Shark / The Vigil / Dancin' in the Ruins / ME 262 / Before the Kiss, a Redcap / Then Came the Last Days of May / True Confessions / Tattoo Vampire / Godzilla / (Don't Fear) The Reaper

Encore
Black Blade / Perfect Water / Hot Rails to Hell / Cities on Flame With Rock and Roll

Blue Öyster Cult: Concert Airs Friday, Sept. 2, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on AUDIENCE Network via DIRECTV Ch 239 and U-verse Ch 1114

This media release will be of definite interest to fans of classic rock...There is a bit more information about the band and touring information than my earlier post today.

AT&T and AUDIENCE^® Network Present:

"BLUE ÖYSTER CULT"

Exclusive Interview and Performance with the Classic-Rock Band

Airs Friday, September 2, at 9 p.m. ET/PT

On DIRECTV and U-verse (DIRECTV Ch 239/U-verse Ch 1114)

Blue Öyster Cult performs on AUDIENCE Network at Red Studios. Photo credit: Aaron Farley, AT&T and AUDIENCE Network.

Watch a Preview as BLUE ÖYSTER CULT Performs Their Classic Hit

"(Don't Fear) The Reaper" on ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK (here)

Tune in to the AUDIENCE Network concert special "BLUE ÖYSTER CULT"airing Friday, September 2, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (DIRECTV Ch 239/U-verse Ch 1114). The classic rock band stopped by Red Studios in Los Angeles to perform their seminal album Agents Of Fortune in it's entirety live. In the episode, the group sits down with Ted Stryker for an in depth interview spanning their history.

For a preview of the AUDIENCE Network concert special "BLUE ÖYSTER CULT," watch an exclusive "First Look" as the band performs their classic hit"(Don't Fear) The Reaper" on ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK (here)..

View the trailer for "BLUE ÖYSTER CULT" airing Friday, September 2, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on AUDIENCE Network, DIRECTV Ch 239/U-verse Ch 1114(here). Watch and share behind-the-scenes clips of the episode (here) and(here).

AUDIENCE Network's new music slate continues to deliver groundbreaking concerts, unique stories and exclusive performances across all genres, plus select programming in ultra high-definition/4K*, to audiences nationwide since multiple series began airing this past January. Recent concert specials include: CeeLo Green, Hank Williams Jr., Cheap Trick, Peter Frampton, Flo Rida, Martina McBride, Lukas Graham, Kelsea Ballerini, Fall Out Boy and Panic! at the Disco, 2 Chainz, Keith Urban, The Lumineers, Cole Swindell, Cypress Hill, Dan + Shay, Josh Kelley, Andra Day, JR JR, Young The Giant and others. New shows premiere via national broadcast Friday at 8:00 PM ET/PT on DIRECTV Ch 239/U-verse Ch 1114,as well as streaming on directv.com, uverse.com and on smartphones and tablets, via the DIRECTV and U-verse apps.**

AUDIENCE Network's multiple series of original and exclusive performances give music fans an intimate view of music's most influential artists today. The network collaborates directly with musicians to create a unique show from their perspective.

For over four decades, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT has been thrilling fans of intelligent hard rock worldwide with powerful albums loaded with classic songs. Indeed, the Long Island, NY-­based band is revered within the hard rock and heavy metal scene for its pioneering work. BLUE ÖYSTER CULToccupies a unique place in rock history because it's one of very few hard rock/heavy metal bands to earn both genuine mainstream critical acclaim as well as commercial success. The band is often cited as a major influence by other acts such as Metallica, and BÖC was listed in VH1's countdown of the greatest hard rock bands of all time. Upon the release of BÖC's self-­-titled debut album in 1972, the band was praised for its catchy-­-yet-­-heavy music and lyrics that could be provocative, terrifying, funny or ambiguous, often all in the same song. BÖC's canon includes three stone-­-cold classic songs that will waft through the cosmos long after the sun has burned out: The truly haunting "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" from 1976's Agents of Fortune, the pummeling "Godzilla" from 1977's Spectres and the hypnotically melodic "Burnin' for You" from 1981'sFire of Unknown Origin. The intense creative vision of BÖC's original core duo of vocalist/lead guitarist Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, and vocalist/rhythm guitarist Eric Bloom are complemented by Richie Castellano on guitar and keyboards, and the longtime rhythm section of bass guitarist Kasim Sulton, and drummer Jules Radino. For the taping of this special performance, they are joined by former member Albert Bouchard (guitar, percussion, vocals).

For more information on BLUE ÖYSTER CULT, visit: http://www.blueoystercult.com/, and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueoystercult/.

Catch BLUE ÖYSTER CULT on tour in the following cities:

DATES		LOCATION	VENUE
FRI	9/2	Marshfield, WI	Central Wisconsin State Fair
SAT	9/3	Virginia Beach, VA	American Music Festival
SAT	9/10	Chesterfield, MO	Chesterfield Amphitheatre
SUN	9/11	Oklahoma City, OK	Zoo Amphitheatre
FRI	9/16	Newton, NJ	Newton Theatre
SAT	9/17	East Durham, NY	Catskill Mountain Thunder Festival
FRI	9/23	Hogansburg, NY	Akwesasne Mohawk Casino
SAT	9/24	Lake George, NY	Charles R Wood Park American Music Festival for the Lake
FRI	9/30	Lakewood, NJ	First Energy Park Rock Carnival
FRI	10/7	Ridgefield, CT	Ridgefield Playhouse
SAT	10/8	Annapolis, MD	Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts
SAT	10/15	Tyler, TX	Butler Square "Rock the Square" KKTX 96.1 event
FRI	10/28	Northfield, OH	Hard Rock Live
SAT	10/29	Atlanta, GA	Variety Playhouse
FRI	11/4	Jim Thorpe, PA	Penn's Peak
FRI	11/11	Hammond, IN	The Venue at Horseshoe Casino
SAT	11/12	Kansas City, MO	Voodoo Lounge at Harrah's Kansas City
SAT	12/17	Stateline, NV	Harrah's Lake Tahoe
THU	1/19	El Cajon, CA	Sycuan Casino
FRI	1/27	Brooks, CA	Cache Creek Casino
SAT	1/28	Everett, WA	Historic Everett Theatre
SAT	2/25	Peekskill, NY	Paramount Hudson Valley
SAT	3/4	Warren, PA	Struthers Library Theatre