New Music: George Benson, The Parlophonics, Dan Kibler

In this column, I feature reviews of three wonderful new releases.

Artist: George Benson

Title: Live at Montreux 1986 (Mercury Studios)

You might like if you enjoy: George Benson, Jeffrey Osbourne

Tell me more: A frequent performer at the Montreux Jazz Festival (held every July in Switzerland), George Benson performed a particularly special set in the summer of 1986; indeed the celebrated artist selected this concert as the first of his Montreux performances to be released as a commercial live set. While the performance was released on DVD in 2005, Mercury Studios' newly-issued Live at Montreux 1986 marks the first time the audio-only portion has been available; the DVD+2CD title is an exciting celebration of Benson's astounding talents as singer, guitar virtuoso and band leader.  Blending jazz, pop, soul and R&B during the fast-moving performance, Benson's incredible vocals and lead guitar work impress across the concert recording. While songs such as "Feel Like Making Love," "The Greatest Love of All" and "Turn Your Love Around" focus on his amazing talents as an R&B singer, an equal number of other selections — including the instrumental "Off Broadway," "Love X Love," "Weekend in L.A." and "Affirmation" — demonstrate Benson's incredible artistry as a guitar master. Other highlights include "Love Ballad" showcasing his scat vocals, "My Latin Brother" featuring some notable flamenco-meets-jazz fret work, the dance-fueled "20/20" and an extended version of his timeless hit "On Broadway."  Live at Montreux 1986 is a marvelous performance to be sure, with the Pittsburgh native performing a mix of hits and deep cuts before an enthusiastic audience. Information: amazon.com.

Artist: The Parlophonics

Title: Dying of the Light (Kool Kat Musik)

You might like if you enjoy: Badfinger, The Beatles, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, Tears For Fears, Blur

Tell me more: It's hard to believe, but The Parlophonics' wonderful new album Dying of the Light was recorded without the benefit of Dresden, Germany-based Robert Horvath (guitars, bass), North Hollywood-based Fernando Perdomo (guitars, drums) and London resident Hugh Macdonald (lead vocals) ever working together in the same studio! The three artists came together virtually during the global pandemic to release their 2021 debut A Day In The Life, an effort that set the stage for their new Kool Kat label debut; the new title features the contributions of singer Marcella Detroit as well as original Wings drummer Denny Seiwell, Rudy Fantin (Hammond organ) and Max Tovstyi (bass). The brilliant Dying of the Light recalls melody-minded greats from the 1960s and early '70s to be sure, with fans of The Beatles, The Hollies and Raspberries sure to dig the marvelous 11-track disc. The hypnotic opener "Fill My Sky," buoyant "Reading Kerouac" (the latter my favorite song on the album), introspective folk rock-flavored "Believe in Something" and Beatlesque harmonies-adorned title track are early gems on the masterwork. The magic continues via standouts like the mood-swept "Underneath the Blue Sky," the sumptuous "Only A Lie," beautiful "Paper Smile" and breezy "These Days." In addition to the wealth of potent original songs showcased on the album, the band offers up their affecting take on Badfinger's "Song for a Lost Friend." What's more, the Parlophonics even commissioned the legendary Klaus Voormann (best known for his iconic Beatles' Revolver LP cover) to create the compelling album cover. Information: koolkatmusik.com.

Artist: Dan Kibler

Title: Idiomatic (Kool Kat Musik)

You might like if you enjoy: BoDeans, Tom Petty, Psychic Rain

Tell me more: Dan Kibler took a decidedly unique approach when he began working on Idiomatic in early 2019 — just prior to the arrival of the pandemic. He recruited Michael Giblin (The Split Squad, Parallax Project) as engineer, mixer and bassist; he also enlisted Tom Kristich of The Jellybricks to play drums. The approach in recording the album involved the band arriving at the studio without having heard the songs they would work on that day. Kibler would introduce the song to the musicians by playing the original on his acoustic guitar for them, and from there they would begin to play and collaborate on the finished arrangement before the track was recorded. This process was repeated for all 10 songs on Idiomatic. The winning approach taken by Kibler and company resounds strongly across the disc. The rollicking "This World," melodic folk rocker "Rail Me Down," rousing "Don't Go For The Money," infectious "Mystery Girl," driving power pop gem "Fear What You Know" and luxurious "Words" are among the infectious and stellar songs on Idiomatic. Information: koolkatmusik.com.

Robert Kinsler

Catching up on early 2019 special sets

The first half of 2019 has seen a parade of spectacular special editions, reissues, concert recordings and limited edition releases that are essential for discerning fans of a diverse range of groundbreaking artists.

Artist: Wes Montgomery
Title: Back on Indiana Avenue: The Carroll DeCamp Recordings (Resonance Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Wes Montgomery, Lionel Hampton
Tell me more: Available on audio CD and via digital, the wonderful set of Wes Montgomery rarities Back on Indiana Avenue: The Carroll DeCamp Recordings is yet another chance to celebrate the legacy of one of the greatest jazz guitarists of the 20th century. Only 45 when he died in 1968, the Indianapolis, Indiana native is heard on this lively set of 22 tracks early in his career via two hours of previously-unheard audio recordings. Of special note are the early versions of material he would cut for Riverside Records including "Round Midnight" and "Whisper Not" from his 1959 debut The Wes Montgomery Trio, and "Sandu" and "Tune-Up" from his 1960 sophomore album Movin' Along. The audio quality and level of performance is riveting more than 60 years after the myriad of performances were put to tape with Montgomery featured in a diverse number of settings – piano quartets, organ trios, extents and with Nat "King" Cole-styled trios. Information: ResonanceRecords.org.

Artist: Bill Evans
Title: Evans in England (Resonance Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Bill Evans, Stan Getz
Tell me more: A previously-unreleased live recording featuring American jazz pianist Bill Evans, bassist Eddie Gomez and drummer Marty Morell was captured at Ronnie Scott's jazz club in December 1969, but was only released for the first time by Los Angeles-based Resonance Records in April 2019. The two-disc release (Evans in England) features the masterful concert performance along with detailed liner notes and interviews with Gomez, Morell and filmmaker Leon Terjanian. Resonance Records has released several other titles featuring Evans (who died in September 1980 at the age of 51) over the past few years including 2012's Bill Evans Live at Art D'Lugoff's Top of the Game. Listening to this title is to hear how much Evans' incredible style continues to influence jazz pianists in the 21st century. Information: ResonanceRecords.org.

Artist: Hank Williams
Title: The Complete Health & Happiness Recordings (BMG)
You might like if you enjoy: Hank Williams, Hank Snow, Michael Ubaldini, Ray Price
Tell me more: Hank Williams' tragic death at the age of 29 on Jan. 1, 1953 cut short the life and career of one of the most influential and gifted country music artists of all time. So it's not surprising that there is an interest in any available recordings featuring the late Alabama-born icon. Look no further than the recently-released The Complete Health & Happiness Recordings, featuring all eight episodes of the 1949 radio series "Health & Happiness." While the series didn't run long, the material featured on those airings included Williams performing stellar versions of his 1949 hits "Wedding Blues," "Lovesick Blues," "You're Gonna Change (Or I'm Gonna Leave)" and "Mind Your Own Business," as well as the enduring cuts "I Saw the Light," "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" and "I'm a Long Gone Daddy." Of particular note is one episode features Williams performing "The Tramp on the Street," the only known recording of the singer performing the probing country ballad. Information: amazon.com.

Artist: Steve Goodman
Titles: "Artistic Hair" and "Affordable Art" (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: John Denver, Harry Chapin, Jimmy Buffett
Tell me more: Omnivore Recordings has continued to reintroduce deserving, under-the-radar artists via via expanded editions. A celebration of singer-songwriter Steve Goodman is being launched with reissues of his final two albums, Artistic Hair (1983) and Affordable Art (1984). Set for release on July 19, these titles not only offer the original track lists but a slew of bonus tracks. Fans of Harry Chapin, Jimmy Buffett and John Denver will all find plenty to admire in the work and artful songs of Goodman. While the artist battled leukemia throughout his career (and he sadly passed away at the age of 36 in September 1984), his positive “Cool Hand Leuk” artistic drive resulted in glowing style of songs that shines through across these two releases. The late singer-songwriter Steve Goodman is best known for his bona fide masterpiece "City of New Orleans" (a Top 20 hit for Arlo Guthrie in 1972), but his parade of top-tier songs extended far beyond that American standard as evidenced by expanded editions of these two releases. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Mrs. Henry
Title: Mrs. Henry Presents The Last Waltz (Blind Owl Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Band, Neil Young, Bob Dylan
Tell me more: More than 40 years after the legendary concert was put to film via Martin Scorsese’s“The Last Waltz,” modern-day San Diego-based quartet Mrs. Henry recreated the event on the stage at The Belly Up in Solana Beach (a legendary venue in North San Diego County). That stunning tribute is available via the ambitious Mrs. Henry presents The Last Waltz (available on 2-disc audio CD or 3xLP vinyl). Mrs. Henry (keyboardist-vocalist Jody Bagley, guitarist-vocalist Dan Cervantes, bassist-vocalist Blake Dean, drummer Chad Lee) put in an incredible amount of work, but armed with musical passion and a parade of more than two dozen fellow musicians (including members of Sacri Monti, Louise XIV and The Schizophonics), the glorious results can now be heard by all.  Timeless tracks such as “Up On Cripple Creek,” “The Weight,” “Caledonia” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” are captured with emotion and authenticity. The collection will be released on July 12. Information: BlindOwlSD.com or www.mrshenry.com. 

Artist: Henry Townsend and Roosevelt Sykes
Title: Blues Piano and Guitar (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Walter Davis, Robert Nighthawk, Big Joe Williams
Tell me more: Earlier this year Omnivore Recordings released Henry Townsend and Roosevelt Sykes’ Blues Piano and Guitar, a two-disc set featuring 30 previously unissued tracks from a 1973 concert performance of interest to lovers of traditional blues. This incredible title features the talents of two artists who were among key players of early blues music; Roosevelt Skyes (on piano and vocals) and Henry Townsend (vocals, guitar and piano) were both born at the dawn of the 20^th century and made major contributions to the genre. On this recording the two St. Louis bluesmen are captured late in their career – just the right stage of life for each to tap into their collective experiences to mine the reaches of “Done Got Tired,” “The War Is Over” and “Ready, Willing And Able.” Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.



Robert Kinsler

Summertime Heats Up Via New Releases

A wide range of outstanding releases are helping heat up the summer, including a surprise stunner from Gorillaz, an outstanding sophomore album from the Rails, the third LP from New York-based artist Vincent Poag and a historic live release from guitar great Dennis Coffey.

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

Artist: The Rails
Title: Other People (Thirty Tigers)
You might like if you enjoy: Carbon Leaf, Bright Blue Gorilla
Tell me more: It's so clear; the Rails get it. Other People, the latest release from the London-based duo comprised of Kami Thompson (daughter of Linda and Richard Thompson) and James Walbourne (his performance credits include the celebrated likes of the Pretenders, Son Volt and Ray Davies) is a disc that will impress on a single listen even while revealing ever-growing lyrical and sonic layers with subsequent listens. There are tracks rooted in traditional Irish folk sounds ("The Cally," "Other People"), indie roots rockers ("Late Surrender," "Brick And Mortar") and Americana folk ("Drowned in Blue," "Mansion Of Happiness") — all lushly arranged and emotionally truthful. Beyond their talents as top-tier musicians, the duo's secret weapon may well be that Thompson and Walbourne each have amazing and distinctive voices and are able to create a magical third voice when they sing together (just listen to the affecting "Dark Times," wistful "Leaving The Land" and tender "I Wish, I Wish"). Information: TheRailsOfficial.com.

Artist: Vincent Poag
Title: Heroes and Demons (Danal Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Tom Waits, John Prine, Bob Dylan
Tell me more: Based in New York City, singer-songwriter-guitarist Vincent Poag uses his rich baritone to deliver original material that taps into his observations inspired by both a look inward as well as studies directed outward toward the big world around him. On his newly-issued third album Heroes and Demons, there is a straightforward lyrical approach enhanced by creative songwriting in the tradition of American favorites including Randy Newman, Bob Dylan and John Prine. Whether delivering a front-and-center appreciation of life itself ("Beautiful Day") in uncertain times like theses, or tapping into the jangly pop rock of Tom Petty ("Young Again") and utilizing a retro jazzy backdrop on the winning "One Step Ahead of Gloom," Poag's style allows him to weave a number of genres into a singular sound. The Waterboys-flavored "Piper Play" is this writer's favorite; the nugget recalls some of Mike Scott's most Celtic-drenched treasures with a luxurious moodscape enhanced by Irish flute, mandolin, fiddle and accordion. Information: VincentPoag.com.

Artist: Dennis Coffey
Title: One Night at Morey's: 1968 (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Dennis Coffey

Tell me more: Listening to the power and inventiveness of Dennis Coffey's One Night at Morey's, it's hard to believe the live performance featuring Coffey on guitar, organist Lyman Woodard and drummer Melvin Davis was recorded 50 years ago. The power and range of the trio is breathtaking; the three musicians blend jazz, funk, R&B and rock via a freewheeling approach that showcases the trio's virtuoso chops and creative chemistry. The instrumental reworking of The Beatles' "Eleanor Rigby" plays out over a fast-moving 13+ minutes! The Meters' "Cissy Strut" is buoyant, with the rhythmic groove a launching pad for flat-out masterful lead guitar work courtesy of Coffey. Those looking for some flat-out killer lead guitar work from Coffey can check out "Burning Spear," where the speed of his runs thrills. A version of the Young Rascals' "Groovin' " certainly serves as the perfect groove for the trio, with all three musicians offering up some outstanding musicianship — all of it nuanced and presented in the service of the piece itself. The originals featured here — "Big City Lights," "Mindbender," and "Union Station" — and they are equally potent. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler

New titles celebrate the art of song craft

What would the music universe be without variety? Titles featuring singer-songwriters Chi McClean, Mark McKinney, Gerry Rafferty, Kelly Bowlin, and an original motion picture soundtrack celebrating the life of Muhammad Ali showcase a variety of musical styles in spades.

Artist: Chi McClean
Title: Let Me In (Chi McClean)
You might like if you enjoy: Jackie Greene, Rich Robinson, Ryan Adams
Tell me more: Southern rock-styled singer-songwriter Chi McClean's latest album Let Me In is a bona fide wonder and provides plenty of proof why it is so essential to seek out independent artists (the disc was released in 2016, but discovered by this writer in January 2017) . From the anthemic gospel-tinged "I Save You" and the bluesy ballad "Build Me Up" (featuring some terrific lead guitar from Audley Freed) to the piano-anchored rock 'n' soul "Life Got In The Way" and sweeping banjo-adorned "Thought I'd Never," McClean's potent vocals and original song craft shine across the eight-track disc. The New York native is backed on the self-produced collection by a group of solid players, and Let Me In is truly one of those majestic albums that sounds great at home or as a companion soundtrack on that long-distance drive to a favorite destination. Information: ChiMcClean.com.

Artist: Mark McKinney
Title: World In Between (Texas Evolution)
You might like if you enjoy: Tim McGraw, Gary Allen
Tell me more: A long-time favorite in Austin's country music scene, singer-songwriter Mark McKinney's fifth album World In Between straddles country, Americana and roots rock. On this album, McKinney not only handles the bulk of songwriting duties, but he frequently plays a number of instruments on the same track. While the material is never less than infectious and his choruses soar, there is a straightforward honesty that comes via McKinney's rich baritone and his real life-minded lyrics. "Bacon & Eggs" is a pretty ballad whose warm stylings include backing vocals from his wife Cassie McKinney as well as his brother Eric McKinney's subtle mandolin play. On "Rainy Day Monday," the catchy country-meets-reggae musical vibe comes in the service of a lyrical dream of living the good life albeit with the sober refrain "I'd rather run out of money than run out of time." Information: MarkMcKinney.com.

Artist: Gerry Rafferty
Title: The Best of Gerry Rafferty (Varese Sarabande)
You might like if you enjoy: Gerry Rafferty, Stealers Wheel, Gordon Lightfoot
Tell me more: Even before his death at the age of 63 in January 2011, Scottish singer-songwriter Gerry Rafferty was an almost-mythological artist beloved for a string of memorable hits despite his uncomfortable relationship with the music industry. The Best of Gerry Rafferty is a new collection that features the artist's greatest hits together and the result is a chance to hear the enduring power of his songs, notably the evocative "Baker Street," undeniable folk rocker "Big Change In the Weather," and the confessional "Right Down the Line." Those only casually familiar with Rafferty will be equally impressed with the R&B ballad "The Way That You Do It," moody rocker "Get It Right Next Time," the Celtic-mining "The Royal Mile (Sweet Darlin')" and other stellar songs on the16-track collection. Excellent liner notes penned Larry R. Watts and photos of Rafferty also are included with the audio CD version of the release. Information: VareseSarabande.com.

Artist: Kelly Bowlin and the Orphans
Title: Are You Listening? (CD Baby)
You might like if you enjoy: The Jayhawks, Carbon Leaf, Steve Earle
Tell me more: Music lovers who enjoy a band more interested in following its original instincts more than fitting into any narrow genre will want to check out the latest album from the freewheeling troupe Kelly Bowlin and the Orphans. An ambitious release, Are You Listening? includes the spirited alt country rocker "Choir of Angels," the affecting acoustic ballad "You Can Never Go Home," high octane Americana rocker "Borderline" and more than a dozen other songs that navigate from Americana ("Dancing In A Hurricane") to bluegrass ("Kentucky Angel," "Three Days") to alt rock ("Fortune Teller," "Thanksgiving Day") and elsewhere (including the child's lullaby "A Ship Called the Dreamer"). Please note that Kelly Bowlin and the Orphans are set to open for the Blind Boys of Alabama at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. Information: KellyBowlinAndTheOrphans.com. 

Title: Muhammad Ali in "The Greatest": Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Varese Sarabande)
You might like if you enjoy: George Benson, Muhammad Ali
Tell me more: This year marks the 40th anniversary of "The Greatest," a 1977 film that starred Muhammad Ali portraying himself. Now, the soundtrack for that film has been reissued as a deluxe edition on audio CD, with the release including Michael Masser's instrumental score as well as songs performed by George Benson and Mandrill. In addition, the new version includes a rare 1964 single by Cassius Clay rapping "I Am The Greatest" and singing "Stand By Me," and other bonus material. Included in the booklet that accompanies the CD version of the release is a liner note essay by A. Scott Galloway that enhances the understanding of the soundtrack. Ali, who died in June 2016, would have turned 75 on Jan. 17, 2017. Information: VareseSarabande.com.

Robert Kinsler