New Music: Marcus King, Gypsy Soul, 'We All Shine On; Celebrating The Music Of 1970' compilation, Ben E. King

Here are my latest listens that are definitely worth sharing in hopes you will delight in these titles too!

Artist: Marcus King

Title: Young Blood (American Records / Republic Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Gary Clark Jr., Marcus King Band, Walter Trout

Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/guitar master Marcus King is back with Young Blood, a sharp 11-track set of hard-hitting Southern-fried blues rock. Music lovers who miss the guitar heroes of yesteryear should run out and pick up King's new album. While listeners thrill in King's otherworldly talents (King began playing guitar at age 3), they will be gripped by a set of songs that collectively chronicle a dark period for King following a devastating break-up. The artist honestly addresses drug and alcohol excess as well as the real-life issues of depression and mental health. Tracks such as "It's Too Late," "Lie Lie Lie," "Pain" and "Good and Gone" showcase the rising 26-year-old South Carolina native focusing simultaneously on his signature gritty vocals and astonishing lead guitar work in the service of stylish genre-meshing songs blending Southern rock, blues and soul in good measure. Elsewhere — take the lovely "Rescue Me," sparse "Blues Worse Than I Ever Had" and groove-centered "Blood On The Tracks" and "Dark Cloud" — King uses his influences to create that same kind of dynamic firepower amidst a relatively quiet storm. Information: MarcusKingOfficial.com. 

Artist: Gypsy Soul

Title: Cover Story (Off The Beaten Track Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Kate Bush, Bat for Lashes, Gypsy Soul 

Tell me more: For an independent artist to defy the odds and release a parade of 15 celebrated albums is impressive. But that is truly the continuing saga of Gypsy Soul, a genre-defying duo featuring the talents of singer Cilette Swann and multi-instrumentalist Roman Morykit. The musical pair have returned with Cover Story, a disc filled with reworked and original takes of selections by 10 notable artists who have influenced their own music. The completion of the wonderful album was uncertain when the husband-and-wife duo were both stricken with COVID in 2021 and Morykit almost died from complications from the coronavirus. These are not simple paint-by-numbers presentations of the originals — there is a level of creativity and craft that is palpable across the album. Songs that benefit from Gypsy Soul's adventuresome reinterpretations include Duran Duran's "Ordinary World," Tears For Fears' "Mad World," Van Morrison's "Into The Mystic," Peter Gabriel's "Don't Give Up" and The Beatles' "Day Tripper," the latter a delightful blend of jazzy and blues stylings. Information: GypsySoul.com.

Artist: Ben E. King

Title: Supernatural Soul (AFM Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Ben E. King, Vintage Trouble, Bootsy Collins, Bette Smith

Tell me more: Recently a group of friends and admirers joined forces to celebrate the talents of the late soul singer great Ben E. King (who sadly passed away in April 2015) with recut versions of his best-known classics. The results shine across Supernatural Soul, an 11-track album available now via audio CD and on vinyl. Highlights on this excellent celebration include the affecting "Stand By Me" (bolstered by a wonderful tandem vocals between King and Bette Smith as well as flashy guitar work from Ronnie Earl), the funky gem "Supernatural Thing" with bass virtuoso Bootsy Collins, the lovely "Spanish Harlem" (featuring flamenco guitar master Rafael Riqueni), soulful "Don't Play That Song (You Lied)," grooving "Do It In The Name Of Love" and smooth R&B cut "I Had A Love." Information: Order the CD and/or vinyl HERE. 

Artists: Bill Lloyd, The Armoires, Mitch Easter, Lannie Flowers, Irene Peña, more

Title: We All Shine On: Celebrating The Music Of 1970 (Spyderpop Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Power Pop, 1970s rock and pop music, Lannie Flowers

Tell me more: Anyone interested in getting a bona fide introduction — or immersive reminder — about the strength of music released in 1970 need simply listen to the wonderful new collection We All Shine On: Celebrating The Music Of 1970. Produced by celebrated music journalist/author/drummer John M. Borack, the 22-track collection features a myriad of artists covering some of the most beloved cuts of 1970 with stylish aplomb. Kicking off with Alan Petsche and Delbert Raines' soulful rendition of "Are You Ready" the track is bolstered by a gospel choir and fiery lead guitar work. Other early standouts on the outstanding collection include Bill Lloyd's rootsy take on Randy Newman's "Mama Told Me Not To Come," the Armoires' melodious reading of "Yellow River," Mitch Easter' inventive reworking of the Delfonics' "Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time)," Lannie Flowers' alt country-styled take on "Walk A Mile In My Shoes" and the Popdudes' rousing version of the Guess Who's "Share The Land." The track listing retains its magic and power on the second half of the disc courtesy of The Brothers Steve's inspired reading of the Neil Diamond hit "Crackling' Rosie," the Legal Matters' exuberant run through George Harrison's "What Is Life," the Test Pressings' rollicking take on "Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)" and Diamond Hands' psychedelic-meets-garage rock spin jaunt through the Kinks classic "Lola." A terrific collection from start to finish. Information: BigStirRecords.com. 

Robert Kinsler

Rockin' Gift Guide: AC/DC, Jesse Colin Young, John Lennon, Peggy Lee, Gypsy Soul, Chris Hillman

Here is a crop of terrific releases including spectacular classic rock returns, an essential autobiography from a rock and roll great, as well as several fantastic new holiday music titles in tune with the season.

Artist: AC/DC

Title: Power Up (Columbia Records Group)

You might like if you enjoy: AC/DC, Deep Purple's 2020 "Whoosh!" 

Tell me more: Few bands have faced their demons and battled back with the kind of aplomb displayed by AC/DC. This is band that was seemingly doomed from the time founding lead singer Bon Scott died in February 1980. Major hearing issues for long-time vocalist Brian Johnson that led him to being temporarily replaced by Axl Rose in 2016, the death of founding rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young in 2017 and legal issues aplenty for drummer Phil Rudd were somehow overcome as evidenced on the hard rockers' brilliant return Power Up. Those worrying the Australia-spawned Rock and Roll Hall of Famers have lost a step fear not; this album rocks as hard as anything in their storied discography. My favorite tracks are the head-banging "Shot In The Dark" and "Systems Down," catchy instant-classic "Witch's Spell," bluesy "Kick You When You're Down" and "No Man's Land," and probing "Through The Mists Of Time." Truth be told, every cut on the album rocks. No wonder within a week of its official release, Power Up had reached the #1 spot on charts across the globe. 

Power Up is available in multiple configurations that will excite collectors and die-hard fans alike, including digital, CD, and deluxe versions. The limited edition, one-of-a-kind deluxe Power Up box is the ultimate fan package. Hit the button on the side of the box and watch the flashing neon AC/DC logo light up while the opening bars of “Shot In The Dark” blast out of the built-in speaker. Inside the box is the full CD package in a soft-pack with a 20-page booklet that features exclusive photos and USB charging cable allowing the box to remain powered up and on display. The vinyl LP is pressed on 180 gram vinyl and housed in a gatefold jacket.  Information: acdc.com.

Artist: Jesse Colin Young

Title: Highway Troubadour (BMG)

You might like if you enjoy: The Youngbloods, Jesse Colin Young, Bruce Cockburn 

Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/guitarist Jesse Colin Young has just returned with Highway Troubadour, his 22nd solo album (but first truly solo acoustic record since his 1964 debut The Soul of a City Boy). Beloved for his work as lead singer for The Youngbloods in the late 1960s and early '70s, Young went on to establish an equally successful career thanks to strong albums such as Song for Juli (1972), Songbird (1975) and On the Road (1976). Now 79, Young's signature vocals and virtuoso finger style guitar work shine across Highway Troubadour. A true survivor, Young put his recording career on hiatus in 2012 when he was diagnosed with Lyme disease. He returned to the ring with his highly-acclaimed February 2019 release Dreamers and is now back with a disc full of compositions pulled from across his catalog; the sessions were recorded with two two AEA A440 ribbon microphones — one for his voice and one for his Taylor 910 CE guitar. Highlights abound; an intoxicating "Cast a Stone" from last year's Dreamers, intimate "Song for Juli" and potent "Darkness, Darkness." He also revisits several Youngbloods classics, including offering up a reworked bluesy take on the Americana rocker "Sugar Babe" and George Remaily's "Euphoria." Information: JesseColinYoung.com.

Artist: John Lennon

Title: Gimme Some Truth (Capitol Records)

You might like if you enjoy: John Lennon, The Beatles

Tell me more: In celebration of what would have been John Lennon's 80th birthday, Capitol/UMe released Gimme Some Truth on Oct. 9, 2020. Released via several configurations (including a Deluxe 2CD/Blu-ray edition that includes a 124-page book and much more), the 2CD version I have revisits three dozen of the artist's most beloved solo songs, all upgraded via the work of engineer Paul Hicks, engineer Sam Gannon and mastering pro Alex Wharton at Abbey Road Studios. Listening to these glorious new mixes is to be swept up again by Lennon's monumental talent as a singer-songwriter able to address love, loss, social justice, marriage, world peace, racism, feminism and a myriad of other topics with a brutal honesty that rings true long after his tragic death in December 1980. The range of songs astound even today; the timeless rocker "Instant Karma!," sparse "Working Class Hero," intimate "Love," adored "Imagine," stirring "Oh My Love" and timely "Happy Xmas (War is Over)" are among this writer's favorites. Gimme Some Truth is available as a 19-track CD or 2LP, a 36-track 2CD, or 4 LP, the aforementioned Deluxe edition, and several digital versions for download and streaming including in 24 bit/96 KHz audio and hi-res Dolby Atmos. Information: JohnLennon.com.

CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS

Artist: Peggy Lee

Title: Ultimate Christmas (Capitol Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Peggy Lee, traditional holiday music 

Tell me more: With 2020 marking the 100th birthday of the late jazz and popular music singer Peggy Lee, the yuletide set Ultimate Christmas features 22 holiday favorites including "Winter Wonderland," "The Christmas Song," "Happy Holiday," "The Christmas Waltz," Winter Wonderland" and the rare "Peace on Earth." Several of the selections were written by Lee, including the cheerful "Christmas Carousel" (the title track from her 1960 holiday album), sparkling "Don't Forget to Feed the Reindeer," radiant "The Tree" and poignant "My Dear Acquaintance (A Happy New Year)." Lee's signature top-tier vocals and the wonderful orchestral arrangements captured between 1949 and 1968 on audio CD are bolstered by a colorful booklet filled with historical Christmastime photos of Lee and detailed liner notes and information on each of the memorable tracks. Information: umgcatalog.com.

Artist: Gypsy Soul

Title: Comfort and Joy (Off The Beaten Track Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Gypsy Soul, Clannad

Tell me more: Talented Oregon-based duo Gypsy Soul is back with a new holiday-minded album, Comfort and Joy. Released Nov. 27, the album features six new recordings; all other tracks on the 14-track disc have been remastered. Cilette Swann's expressive vocals (which spans four octaves) and Roman Morykit's skills on a multiple of instruments are able to musically deliver the warmth and jubilation of the season to be sure, including their jazz-meets-world music versions of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "We Three Kings of Orient Are," "The First Noel" and other traditional favorites. Other standouts include "Little Drummer Boy" and "Away In A Manger." Their own "The Snow, The Sea" is a welcome addition on the set. Many modern-day Christmas music collections are stuffed with an excess of bombast and artificial sweetening; Gypsy Soul's Comfort and Joy is a genuinely beautiful and touching tribute to the holiday season. Information: GypsySoul.com.

ROCK 'N' ROLL READ

Title: Time Between: My Life as a Byrd, Burrito Brother and Beyond

Author: Chris Hillman

Publisher: BMG Books

Hardcover: 315 pages

Tell me more: In his moving "Time Between: My Life as a Byrd, Burrito Brother and Beyond," Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Chris Hillman provides a compelling and fascinating look at his life and singular career. A founding member of the Byrds, the Flying Burrito Brothers, the Souther-Hillman-Furay Band and the Desert Rose Band, Hillman reflects on the ups and downs of a life spent in the music world but mines equal depth with his reflections on love, family, faith and the loss of so many of his musical mates. He writes in a straightforward way, completely immersing the reader in a wide-ranging life spanning legendary gigs, recording sessions, band breakups, overcoming seemingly-fatal health scares and — his biggest joys — his wife Connie and their children. His relationships with greats ranging from Gram Parsons and David Crosby to Roger McGuinn, Richie Furay and Tom Petty come alive in the wonderful autobiography. Country great Dwight Yoakam pens the foreword. Information: bmg.com.

Robert Kinsler

Genre-spanning titles that rock

Several live albums, a slew of welcome reissues and an impressive debut are among the large field of highly-recommended titles that will satisfy music lovers from across the spectrum.

Artist: Neil Young + Promise of the Real
Title: Earth (Reprise)
You might like if you enjoy: Neil Young and Crazy Horse
Tell me more: Neil Young is truly rock's most enduring explorer, challenging himself and his audience with songs bolstered by socially-minded lyrics and expansive rock that incorporates folk, alt-country, blues and other styles. On his latest album Earth, Young + Promise of the Real (a group headed by Lucas Nelson and Micah Nelson, Willie Nelson's sons) utilize 2015 concert recordings and studio  overdubs adorned with sounds both tranquil and jarring (mostly animal cries, but also sonics captured in the city) that add up to something that is never less than captivating. The 13-track recording fills two CDs, and includes an ambitious 26-minute take on "Love and Only Love." Other standouts include the beautiful harmonica- and organ-anchored "Mother Earth," melodic country rocker "My Country Home," and lush "Western Hero." Information: NeilYoung.com.

Purchase 'Earth' (2CD) here today




Artist: Asia
Title: British Live Performance Series (Rainman)
You might like if you enjoy: Yes, John Wetton, Carl Palmer, Geoff Downes
Tell me more: Recorded at Central Television Nottingham studios in 1990, Asia's British Live Performance Series concert release is a wonder. Capturing the supergroup as they performed highlights from their first decade together, the 13-track set includes virtuoso prog-rock ("Wildest Dreams," "Time Again"), tuneful anthems ("Voice of America," "Days Like These") and energetic takes on their biggest hits ("Sole Survivor," "Don't Cry," "Only Time Will Tell," "Heat of the Moment"). British Live Performance Series is a must-have for fans of Asia. Information: rainmanrecords.com.

Get Asia's 'British Live Performance Series' here



Artist: Charlie Faye & the Fayettes
Title: Charlie Faye & the Fayettes (independent)
You might like if you enjoy: She & Him, the Shirelles, the Ronettes
Tell me more: Some of today's most exciting artists are those who have tapped into a retro vein and made it their own. Indeed, She & Him, Gary Clark Jr. and St. Paul & the Broken Bones are among the '00s breakout acts who have artistically balanced old and new. Now comes Austin's Charlie Faye & the Fayettes (Faye is lead vocalist, and is joined by backup singers BettySoo and Akina Adderley). The glorious "Green Light," haunting "Loving Names," Burt Bacharach-styled "Carelessly," and rock 'n' soul romp "Eastside" are among this writer's faves. Information: charliefayeandthefayettes.com.

Purchase 'Charlie Faye & The Fayettes' on audio CD




Artist: The Record Company
Title: Give It Back to You (Concord Music Group)
You might like if you enjoy: Moreland & Arbuckle, 7Horse
Tell me more: Los Angeles trio The Record Company has been doing for blues-rock what Vintage Trouble has done for rock 'n soul. The Record Company (singer-guitarist-harmonica player Chris Vos, bassist-vocalist Alex Stiff and drummer-vocalist-piano player Marc Cazorla released a debut, Give It Back to You, that not only harkens back to some of the group's influences (John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, the Rolling Stones), but equally establishes the threesome as a contemporary and fully contemporary voice. The performances are energetic and the songs are explosive. The blistering "Off the Ground," heavy bass-filled hypnotic rocker "On the Move" and gospel-infused "Hard Day Coming Down" are undeniably catchy, and everywhere the sparse but intoxicating arrangements are a delight. Information: therecordcompany.net.

Get 'Give It Back To You' here




Artist: The Traveling Wilburys
Title: The Traveling Wilburys Collection (Concord Bicycle Music)
You might like if you enjoy: George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan
Tell me more: The Traveling Wilburys' brief but brilliant career is fully chronicled on the newly-released The Traveling Wilburys Collection. Featuring the group's wonderful 1988 debut Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1 and sterling sophomore disc, 1990's Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3, the new collection offers each of those albums with bonus tracks. In addition, a DVD disc includes the documentary "The True History of the Traveling Wilburys," and five great music videos for classics including "Handle With Care," "End of the Line" and "She's My Baby." As time has flown by it almost defies belief that George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty and Bob Dylan took time out from their A-list solo careers to join forces in one of rock 'n' roll's greatest-ever supergroups; The Traveling Wilburys Collection is the lasting document of that joyous union. Information: travelingwilburys.com.

Buy 'Traveling Wilburys Collection' [2CD/DVD Combo][Deluxe Edition] version here



Artist: The Bangles
Title: Ladies and Gentlemen…the Bangles! (Omnivore)
You might like if you enjoy: The Bangles, Susanna Hoffs
Tell me more: Some of the Bangles' earliest recordings are gathered together on the delightful Ladies and Gentlemen...the Bangles! The wonderful 16-track disc offers up standout studio takes, demos and live recordings chronicling the group's formative years (the ensemble was originally known as the Bangs before adopting the permanent moniker the Bangles). The mix of propulsive instrumentals and melodic power pop is infectious and the songs really shine across the re-mastered set. My faves include the surf-minded instrumental "Bitchen Summer/Speedway," harmonies-rich "The Real World," Beatles-worthy "I'm In Line" and garage rocker "Want You." Information: omnivorerecordings.com.

Get 'Ladies And Gentlemen... The Bangles!' here




Artist: Gypsy Soul
Title: True (Off the Beaten Track Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Sarah McLachlan, the Civil Wars
Tell me more: Indie music duo Gypsy Soul has a loyal and discerning following that has followed singer Cilette Swann and multi-instrumentalist Roman Morykit as they have carved out an impressive discography filled with material blending Celtic, folk, jazz, rock and other styles with a master's touch. Gypsy Soul's thirteenth album True offers an engaging and eclectic collection of songs sure to thrill fans; the Americana "We Are What We Believe," beautiful acoustic ballad "6,000 Miles," introspective folk rocker "Long, Long Ride" and stripped down soulful exploration of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" all shine here. Information: gypsysoul.com.

Purchase 'True' here


Artist: RAZ
Title: The Best of RAZ (Gonzo Multimedia)
You might like if you enjoy: Early Cheap Trick, Big Star, Joey Molland
Tell me more: The high-octane and infectious songs that fill The Best of RAZ recall the early days of power pop, namely the groundbreaking sounds of Big Star and early Cheap Trick. The rollicking "The Boy," New Wave-styled rocker "Say Ya Love Me," saxophone-adorned riff rocker "Back in the Shadows" and alt country rocker "Sitting On My Bed" (the latter featuring Carla Olson on lead vocals) are simply a blast. In addition to the talents of leader Michael Raz Rescigno (vocals, guitar), the range of recordings featured on the best-of disc includes guest players Joey Molland (Badfinger), Joe Vitale (Joe Walsh, The Eagles), Stu Cook (Creedence Clearwater Revival) and aforementioned Olson. Information: gonzomultimedia.co.uk.

Purchase 'The Best of Raz' here




Artist: The Rides
Title: Pierced Arrow (429 Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Stephen Stills, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Kim Wilson
Tell me more: Lightening strikes twice for the Rides, the supergroup (featuring singer-guitarist Stephen Stills, singer-guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd and keyboardist Barry Goldberg), whose new sophomore effort is a top-notch followup to 2013's "Can't Get Enough." Armed with a collection of soulful originals (the blues-rocker "Kick Out of It," smooth soul rocker "I've Got to Use My Imagination" and bluesy "Game On" among the great tracks) and a cover of Willie Dixon's "My Babe," the trio is rounded out by drummer Chris Layton and bassist Kevin McCormick. One of the most powerful songs on the set is "Virtual World," whose Buffalo Springfield-styled musical palate and right-on lyrics of the emotional cost of living in a technology-immersed society should be required listening. Information: 429records.com.


Artist: Glen Campbell
Title: For the Good Times (Varèse Sarabande Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Glen Campbell, Keith Urban, Alan Jackson
Tell me more: Although Glen Campbell is best known for a string of timeless crossover hits he scored in the 1960s and '70s, the singer-guitarist had a busy decade in the 1980s focusing on country music. Standouts and previously-unreleased material from that decade is featured on the newly-issued For the Good Times, a 16-track collection that includes the theme song from the 1980 hit film "Any Which Way You Can," an affecting previously-unheard version of Dave Loggins' "Please Come To Boston" and a beautiful banjo-anchored take on JD Souther's "Faithless Love," the latter showcasing Campbell's high-soaring tenor vocals. Campbell's talent was always such that he could make songs penned by others his own; listening to a tender version of Jimmy Webb's "Do What You Gotta Do" serves as a painful reminder of Campbell's absence from the music scene. Information: VareseSarabande.com.




Artist: The Muffs
Title: Blonder and Blonder (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: The Pixies, the Pandoras
Tell me more: The deluxe re-release of the Muffs' Blonder and Blonder is a fan's dream come true. Not only does the original 14-track 1995 release sound better than ever, but the disc includes seven bonus tracks (two U.K. B-sides and five previously unissued Kim Shattuck demo recordings). The straight-up post-punk album includes so many great songs, stretching from the opening blast "Agony" and scream-laced "Oh Nina" to the crunchy rocker "Red Eyed Troll" and tuneful "Just a Game." Omnivore Recordings has issued "Blonder and Blonder" on audio CD, and on baby-blue vinyl. The 20-page full-color booklet that comes with the CD is wonderful, providing extensive liner notes, photos and even a song-by-song reflections by Shattuck. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.

Artist: Band of Horses
Title: Why Are You Ok (Interscope)
You might like if you enjoy: Neil Young and Crazy Horse, Band of Horses' 2010 album "Infinite Arms"
Tell me more: If Neil Young and Crazy Horse had joined forces with members of Oasis and the Shins it might sound something like the dreamy expanse minded so masterfully by Band of Horses. The quintet's new album Why Are You Ok is a beautiful triumph, with the ambitious "Dull Times/The Moon" growing from an ethereal soundscape to a raging rocker. The lush "Solemn Oath," introspective "Hag," country-styled "Throw My Mess" and driving "Casual Party" are among the other masterfully penned and performed songs on the disc. Information: bandofhorses.com.



Artist: Garbage
Title: Strange Little Birds (STUNVOLUME)
You might like if you enjoy: Garbage, the Pretenders
Tell me more: Garbage's sixth album Strange Little Birds finds the rock quintet exploring the better part of its electronica and alt rock personalities with equal zeal. Singer Shirley Manson remains one of modern rock's greatest lead vocalists, and is backed by a quartet of talented musicians able to unleash powerful and affecting songs that are never anything less than original. The ethereal "Blackout," propulsive "Empty" and alluring electronica-tinged "Night Drive Loneliness" provide more than enough reasons to pick up Garbage's brilliant Strange Little Birds. Information: garbage.com.

Robert Kinsler