Essential special editions revisit lost cult-worthy classics

There has always been a forceful link between cinema and music extending far beyond the role that a strong instrumental score plays in helping define a movie. In addition to the success of great musicals, the importance of theme songs, commercial soundtracks and the appearance of well-known musicians in major films have all helped elevate the link between music and movies for more than 60 years. In this week's column I highlight some notable titles that tap into that synergy.

Title: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (Shout! Factory)

Artists: Peter Frampton, The Bee Gees, Earth Wind & Fire, Billy Preston, Aerosmith, more

You might like if you enjoy: The Bee Gees, Peter Frampton, Aerosmith, Earth Wind & Fire, Billy Preston, Steve Martin

Tell me more: Not everyone has seen – or even heard of – the 1978 cinematic musical comedy "Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band" despite the bona fide star power of the film’s key players – Peter Frampton and The Bee Gees. That is surprising when you consider the inclusion of more than 20 Beatles-penned classics and the production talents of George Martin and engineering skills of Geoff Emerick; the list of artists and actors who appear in the film extends from George Burns, Donald Pleasence and Steve Martin to Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, Billy Preston and Earth Wind & Fire. 

The renewed interest in Peter Frampton (who is battling "inclusion body myositis," a progressive muscle disorder) and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame trio the Bee Gees (their story is chronicled in the acclaimed must-see 2020 documentary “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart”) has led to a reexamination of "Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band."  And the availability of a wonderful 2017 Blu-ray edition of the film released by Shout Factory allows the film to be seen and heard by many for the first time. This is not a perfect film, but there is definitely enough charm, sincerity and magic to encourage a viewing of the flick. The two-disc soundtrack for the film is also available on audio CD and via vinyl. Information: ShoutFactory.com.

Title: Saturday Night Fever: Deluxe Edition (Capitol Records)

Artists: The Bee Gees, Yvonne Elliman, K.C. & The Sunshine Band, more

You might like if you enjoy: The Bee Gees, K.C. & The Sunshine Band, Kool & The Gang

Tell me more: In honor of its 40th anniversary, the highest-selling soundtrack album in history was re-released via a deluxe two-disc edition in 2017. Disc one features the original 17-track soundtrack (including four No. 1 hits for The Bee Gees) along with potent tracks from '70s favorites Yvonne Elliman, Kool & The Gang, KC & The Sunshine Band and others. The second disc includes four new mixes by GRAMMY Award winner Serban Ghenea of The Bee Gees' "Stayin' Alive," "Night Fever," "How Deep Is Your Love" and "You Should Be Dancing." Information: universalmusicenterprises.com.

Title: Prince: Sign 'o' the Times

Artists: Prince (Paisley Park)

You might like if you enjoy: Prince, James Brown

Tell me more: Prince was at the peak of his illustrious career when he was captured in 1987 for the concert documentary "Sign 'o' the Times" (available to view on the Peacock streaming service and via Amazon Prime). The film was shot on the heels of the release of his terrific 1987 album Sign 'o' the Times (his ninth studio album, and often cited as his greatest full-length studio set). The propulsive "Play in the Sunshine,"  enthralling "Little Red Corvette" (bolstered by Prince's piano playing), rousing "Housequake" (with Prince offering up some great James Brown dance moves) and soulful joy "I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man" are early standouts in the documentary. There are also compelling takes on some of his most-beloved songs including the funky "U Got The Look," R&B gems "If I Was Your Girlfriend" and "Forever In My Life," and inspired rocker "The Cross," all of which help make this remastered film one of the best ways to experience the thrill of a Prince concert when the acclaimed artist was at the height of his powers. His band for the film included Sheila E. on drums and percussion, Miko Weaver on guitar, Levi Seacer Jr. on bass, Eric Leeds on sax, and a number of amazing dancers who collectively keep the momentum moving across all 84 minutes of the fast-moving film. Information: prince.com. 

Title: Silent Running (Arrow Video)

Music: Songs performed by Joan Baez; songs written by Peter Schickele and Diane Lampert; soundtrack written by Peter Schickele

You might like if you enjoy: Joan Baez, '70s soundtracks

Tell me more: It's hard to believe that a science fiction film released in 1972 resonates more today than at the time of its release. "Silent Running," the directorial debut from visual effects master Douglas Trumbull ("2001: A Space Odyssey," "The Andromeda Strain," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind") bore little in common with the blockbuster likes of "Star Wars" and "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" that came a few years later. Indeed, here was a film that looked at an Earth in the near future, stripped of all flora and fauna; the only remaining ecosystems were preserved in massive domes attached to large spaceships. When a decision is made by the U.S. government to destroy the biospheres and return the spaceships to commercial use, there are devastating consequences. The film (which stars acclaimed actor Bruce Dern as Freeman Lowell) has just been released on Blu-ray for the first time ever and the masterful use of original songs sung by folk legend Joan Baez as well as evocative instrumental music from composer Peter Schickele and groundbreaking sound effects are the equal of the film's sci-fi setting. It is alien to audiences today, but the use of music in the film is heightened throughout the aptly-titled "Silent Running" because there are frequent stretches where there is little or no music used. The Blu-ray released by Arrow Video has a plethora of bonus features, including an isolated music and effects track. There is also a feature titled "No Turning Back," a new video interview with film music historian Jeff Bond on the film's masterful score. Information: https://mvdb2b.com/s/AV300.  

Robert Kinsler 

Ringo Starr is Dan Rather's special guest for "The Big Interview's" 100th Episode on October 2, 2018

I'm very much looking forward to catching the interview with Sir Ringo Starr slated to air on "The Big Interview with Dan Rather" on AXS TV on October 2. See details below...

Dan Rather interviews Sir Ringo Starr for 100th episode of 'The Big Interview'

Unforgettable sit-down with The Beatles' Ringo Starr is set to be shown on Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 at 9 p.m. Eastern / 6 p.m. Pacific time 

Other highlights include conversations with Rod Stewart, Toby Keith, Buddy Guy, Dan Aykroyd, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Kenny Loggins, Joan Baez and Dickey Betts

Dan Rather, left, with Sir Ringo Starr.  Photo Credit: Amanda Taraska/AXS TV

Los Angeles, CA (August 21, 2018) – AXS TV’s The Big Interview With Dan Rather celebrates its landmark 100^THepisode with an exclusive sit-down with The Beatles’ Ringo Starr, kicking off the second-half of the series’ sixth season on Tuesday, October 2, at 9pE/6pP. During the candid conversation, Starr goes in-depth sharing stories from his acclaimed career as he talks about about his endless love of performing, his fateful introduction to the drums as a child during one of many arduous hospital stays, maintaining his sense of authenticity through the superstardom, and the brotherhood of The Beatles, while delving into his highly successful career traveling around the world with his spectacular All-Starr Band, performing rock n’ roll classics with a revolving roster of his famous friends and fellow legends.

Other second-half highlights include all-new in-depth interviews with soulful rocker Rod Stewart (Oct. 9); Country music superstar Toby Keith (Oct. 16); groundbreaking Southern Rock pioneers Lynyrd Skynyrd (Oct. 23); chart-topping rock mainstays Kansas (Oct. 30); award-winning folk artist Joan Baez (Nov. 6); beloved funnyman/actor Dan Aykroyd (Nov. 13); Blues guitar legend Buddy Guy (Nov. 20); multi-talented music man Kenny Loggins (Nov. 27); bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs (Dec. 4); rockabilly rebel Brian Setzer (Dec. 11); and guitar guru Dickey Betts (Dec. 18).

Since its premiere episode on September 16, 2013—featuring Oscar®-, Emmy®-, and Golden Globe®-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin—The Big Interview has put the spotlight on some of the most influential names in entertainment, giving viewers a rare glimpse into their personal lives and legendary careers as Dan Rather gets them to open up in his trademark fashion. The impressive roster of all-star guests reads like a definitive list of true Hollywood greatness, with Rather interviewing industry trailblazers such as Don Rickles, Merle Haggard, and Gregg Allman shortly before their deaths; as well as filmmakers Quentin Tarantino and Oliver Stone; comedienne/actress Carol Burnett; actors Keifer Sutherland and Benicio Del Toro; Country standouts Willie Nelson, Shania Twain and Keith Urban; and an eclectic collection of musical innovators that includes Robert Plant, Meat Loaf, Patti LaBelle, Neil Young, Roger Waters, Frankie Valli, Gene Simmons, Carlos Santana, Carly Simon, and Dolly Parton, to name only a few.

“For over six seasons, The Big Interview With Dan Rather has welcomed some of the most iconic and influential actors, musicians, filmmakers, and entertainers in the industry,” said Evan Haiman, vice president of music programming and production, AXS TV. “From Don Rickles to Dolly Parton, and Kid Rock to Jane Lynch, Dan Rather’s guest list defies era, genre, and medium, and truly has something for everyone to enjoy. The second cycle of season six continues the series’ unparalleled legacy, offering even more priceless insight into these larger-than-life superstars who have left an indelible mark on film, television, music, and art.”

THE BIG INTERVIEW SCHEDULE:

Oct. 2 – Ringo Starr

Oct. 9 – Rod Stewart

Oct. 16 – Toby Keith

Oct. 23 – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Oct. 30 – Kansas

Nov. 6 – Joan Baez

Nov. 13 – Dan Aykroyd

Nov. 20 – Buddy Guy

Nov. 27 – Kenny Loggins

Dec. 4 – Ricky Skaggs

Dec. 11 – Brian Setzer

Dec. 18 – Dickey Betts

Cinematic Sounds Abound: Soundtracks, essential MST3K

Whether you enjoy listening to soundtracks for a favorite film or watching a cult TV show that combined a love for all things pop culture, there are a score of recommended new titles available now.

DVD Title: Mystery Science Theater 3000: Vol. XXXIX (Shout! Factory)

You might like if you enjoy: MST3K, Cinematic Titanic

Tell me more: Likely the final collection of new episodes from the original run of Mystery Science Theater 3000 that ended after 10 seasons in 1999, Mystery Science Theater 3000: Vol. XXXIX delivers intelligent wit and laughs at every turn. The box set includes the final three available episodes previously unreleased by Shout! Factory ("Girls Town," "The Amazing Transparent Man" and "Diabolik"); throughout the series, musical references and songs were among the key elements of the television series. For example, on a single episode here, references or sung bits linked to Pink Floyd, Gregg Allman, David Cassidy, the Troggs' "Wild Thing," the Beach Boys' "Surfin' Safari" and The Beatles help enhance the B-movie viewing. One of the extras, "Showdown in Eden Prairie: The Final Experiment" takes an in-depth look at the production of the final episode ("Diabolik") of the series' original run, including interviews with the cast and key production members. Another must-see extra is titled "The Last Dance" and it includes raw behind-the-scenes video footage taken on the set during the production of "Diabolik." Of course, the cult show has returned with creator Joel Hodgson and a new cast; new episodes began airing on Netflix in 2017 and another season of episodes are being produced now. Information: shoutfactory.com.

Artist: Composer John Williams

Title: The Post: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Sony Classical)

Tell me more: Although composer John Williams is best known for his signature music for franchise winning "Star Wars," "Raiders of the Lost Ark," "Jaws," "Jurassic Park" and "Harry Potter" films, his music seldom fails to impress no matter the genre. Just listen to the 85-year-old master's work on The Post: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, which includes the beautifully tense "The Presses Roll," disquieting "Nixon's Order," jazzy piano-anchored "The Oak Room, 1971" and alluring "Mother and Daughter" to appreciate the nuanced and stylish handiwork of Williams. The 12-page booklet that accompanies the soundtrack includes a short overview on Williams' approach and strength in scoring for "The Post," as well as a number of photos from the film and a listing of the many talented members of the orchestra who performed under the baton of Williams. Information: SonyClassical.com.

Artist: Carter Burwell

Title: Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Varèse Sarabande Records)

Tell me more: A strong blend of instrumental music composed by Carter Burwell and artful mix of songs delivered by the celebrated likes of Monsters Of Folk, folk singer Joan Baez and Motown's The Four Tops make for an eclectic listen across the Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. The winner of the Best Motion Picture - Drama at the 75th Golden Globe Awards, "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" is enhanced by Burwell's wonderfully evocative music. The Americana-styled "Mildred Goes To War," lovely keyboard-adorned "The Deer" and the foreboding "A Cough of Blood, A Dark Drive" are among Burwell's affecting compositions heard here. Information: VareseSarabande.com.

Artist: Miklos Rozsa (composer); City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra & Chorus

Title: Ben-Hur: World Premiere Digital Recording of the Complete Film Score (Tadlow Music)

Tell me more: The 1959 film "Ben-Hur" stands as one of Hollywood's greatest-ever films but the Academy Award winner's complete 157-minute score has only recently been released via a world premiere digital recording performed by the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra & Chorus, and conducted by Nic Raine. The ambitious score was originally composed by Miklós Rózsa and ultimately proved to be the longest original score composed and recorded for any film of the 20th century. The new "World Premiere Digital Recording of the Complete Film Score" is an important and crucial release. Information: tadlowmusic.com.

Artists: Composer Thomas Pierson; singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson

Title: Deluxe Edition: Music from the Motion Picture Popeye (Varèse Sarabande Records)

Tell me more: This writer somehow missed the essential, expanded edition reissue of the soundtrack for the 1980 film Popeye  when it was released in September 2017. The good news is that no matter when listeners discover this fantastic soundtrack, they will not be disappointed. The first disc of this 2-CD title features original music and songs from the film, while the second disc includes demo versions written by noted singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson. Two of those songs ("Everybody's Got To Eat" and "I'd Rather Be Me") presented on that second disc were never released prior to this special edition. Fans of the film's stars (Robin Williams, Shelley Duvall, Ray Walston) will enjoy the famed actors featured in the musical selections. formation: VareseSarabande.com.

Artists: Iggy Pop, the Isley Brothers, New Order, more
Title: Gold - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Varèse Sarabande Records)
Tell me more: With the Golden Globe-nominated original title song from groundbreaking Iggy Pop leading off the disc, the Gold soundtrack mines similar territory for a sonic journey that enhances the Matthew McConaughey-starring 2017 film; the lineup of cuts also works perfectly as a stand-alone collection of great songs. The rousing little-heard rocker "Ron Klaus Wrecked His House" (from Big Dipper), a cover of David Byrne's "This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)" performed by Kishi Bashi and inviting gems from New Order ("Temptation"), Joy Division ("Atmosphere") and Television ("1880 Or So") are among memorable songs on the set. Of special note is the Isley Brothers' take on the 1970 classic Eric Burdon / War collaboration "Spill the Wine." VareseSarabande.com. 

Robert Kinsler

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2017 inductees exhibit coming March 31, 2017

Here is a media release of interest to fans of the artists who are set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year...

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to Open 2017 Inductee Exhibit March 31, 2017

Exhibit takes fans into the lives of the 2017 Class: Joan Baez, ELO, Journey, Pearl Jam, Tupac Shakur, Yes and Nile Rodgers

Jeff Lynne's
Gibson Les Paul guitar

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will unveil a new exhibit on March 31 highlighting the 2017 Inductees: Joan Baez, ELO, Journey, Pearl Jam, Tupac Shakur, Yes and Musical Excellence Award recipient Nile Rodgers.

The opening of the exhibit comes in advance of the 32^nd Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, which will be held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York on April 7. The Rock Hall in Cleveland will also host an official simulcast party where fans will have a chance to explore the exhibit and experience a live feed of the Ceremony.

The exhibit will highlight this year’s class and their impact on music history by showcasing  many iconic items that span the careers of these legends. Some of the items featured in the exhibit include:

• Joan Baez’s contract for the Woodstock Music and Arts Fair. Baez was originally scheduled as the closing act of the signature event of the counterculture, which took place August 15 - 18, 1969. She ended up closing the first day’s performances and was compensated $10,000.
• A t-shirt worn by Eddie Vedder. The Pearl Jam lead vocalist wore this shirt during the band’s appearance on Saturday Night Live on April 16, 1994. As the show’s end credits rolled and the cast gathered to say goodnight, Vedder opened his shirt to reveal the letter “K” he’d written over his heart in tribute to Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, who had died on April 5, 1994.
• Nile Rodgers’ Stuyvesant Guitar Man electric guitar, c. 1980.
• Tour items from Yes, including a point of sale sign from the Drama tour.
• A reel-to-reel master recording of “Dear Mama,” the first single from Tupac Shakur’s third studio album Me Against the World. The song pays tribute to Shakur’s mother Afeni, a political activist and member of the Black Panther party. The emotional homage reached Number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
• A Parlor Grand Piano from Jonathan Cain of Journey. This was Cain’s main piano until 2007 and was used on all of Journey’s 1980s tours. The piano is also seen in the 1983 concert film Journey: Frontiers and Beyond and in several music videos, including “Faithfully.”
• A gold Gibson Les Paul played by Jeff Lynne of ELO, c. 1974.

Eddie Vedder wore this T-shirt
during Pearl Jam's appearance on
'Saturday Night Live' on April 16, 1994.

The 2017 Inductee exhibit will also include a video in the “For Those About to Rock” theater highlighting speeches and special moments from past Induction Ceremonies and will be updated with 2017’s Inductees after this year’s Induction Ceremony takes place. There is also a video wall outfitted with soundbars powered by Klipsch Audio that will share interviews with the 2017 Inductees and behind-the-scenes footage from the Induction Ceremony and rehearsals. The Ceremony will premiere on HBO on Saturday, April 29 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

About the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Rock Connects Us. Our mission is clear: To engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock and roll. We share stories of the people, events and songs that shape our world through exhibits, innovative programs and concerts. Join the millions who love it as much as you do. Experience us live or online – Visit rockhall.com or Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@rockhall). Long Live Rock!

Sights and Sounds: World Party, Jack White, Phil Collins, The Who, Joan Baez, Jerry Lee Lewis

Hope everybody had a good weekend! Lots of news to share for a Monday...

I sadly wasn't able to catch World Party this weekend. My pal George A. Paul did and you can read his full report on Music Minded here.

During a Glastonbury performance of the White Stripes tune "Cannon," Jack White included a good chunk of Metallica's "Enter Sandman." You can watch it courtesy of Spin here.

Is it really possible? Is Phil Collins considering coming out of retirement? Stereogum has the latest here.

The Who are set to celebrate their 50th anniversary with another tour. NME has the scoop.

Joan Baez

Joan Baez is coming to the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles this week. The Orange County Register has an insightful preview on the legendary folk singer you can read here.

Finally, legendary rocker Jerry Lee Lewis is set to release a new album aptly titled Rock & Roll Time on Oct. 28, 2014. The collection will feature a mix of newly-recorded classics and will find Lewis joined by the celebrated likes of Keith Richards, Neil Young, Ron Wood, Robbie Robertson and Nils Lofgren. 

Currently, Lewis has two upcoming concert dates scheduled: on July 5, 2014 he will be performing at Harrah's Resort in Valley Center, CA and on Oct. 30, at B.B. King's Blues Club and Grill in New York. Visit www.JerryLeeLewis.com for all the details.

Rock & Roll Time Tracklisting:

1. ROCK & ROLL TIME (with Doyle Bramhall II and Jon Brion)
2. LITTLE QUEENIE (with Keith Richards and Ron Wood)
3. STEPCHILD (with Daniel Lanois and Doyle Bramhall II)
4. SICK AND TIRED (with Jon Brion)
5. BRIGHT LIGHTS, BIG CITY (with Neil Young and Ivan Neville)
6. FOLSOM PRISON BLUES (with Robbie Robertson and Nils Lofgren)
7. KEEP ME IN MIND (with Jon Brion)
8. MISSISSIPPI KID (with Derek Trucks and Doyle Bramhall II)
9. BLUES LIKE MIDNIGHT (with Robbie Robertson)
10. HERE COMES THAT RAINBOW AGAIN (with Shelby Lynne)
11. PROMISED LAND (with Doyle Bramhall II)
 

www.facebook.com/JerryLeeLewisOfficial

Inbox Update: Frank Zappa, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, 'The Folk Years'

Here is the latest roundup of exciting news items related to upcoming releases. 

Eagle Rock Entertainment Presents:

 

Frank Zappa

A TOKEN OF HIS EXTREME

~On DVD June 4, 2013~

 

 

EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT and the Zappa Family Trust are pleased to announce the first official release ofA TOKEN OF HIS EXTREME, an original program created by FRANK ZAPPA for TV. 

 

Recorded on August 27, 1974 at KCET in Hollywood, A TOKEN OF HIS EXTREME features Frank Zappa with five incredibly talented band members for this extravaganza of live music.  The line-up exists of Frank Zappa—guitar, percussion, vocals; George Duke—keyboards, finger cymbals, tambourine, vocals; Napoleon Murphy Brock—sax, vocals; Ruth Underwood—percussion; Tom Fowler—bass; Chester Thompson—drums.

 

The Program, as edited and thoroughly tweezed & produced by FZ for Honker Home Video includes these delights: The Dog Breath Variations/ Uncle Meat, Montana, Florentine Pogen, Stink-Foot, Pygmy Twylyte, Room Service, Inca Roads, Oh No, Son Of Orange County, More Trouble Every Day, A Token Of My Extreme.

 

Stereo Mixes Produced by Frank Zappa with Kerry McNabb at Paramount Studios, 1974.  Mastered by Bob Ludwig, Gateway Mastering, 2009

 

FZ:  “This was put together with my own money and my own time and it’s been offered to television networks and to syndication and it has been steadfastly rejected by the American television industry.  It has been shown in primetime in France and Switzerland, with marvelous results.  It’s probably one of the finest pieces of video work that any human being has ever done.  I did it myself.  And the animation that you’re gonna see in this was done by a guy named Bruce Bickford, and I hope he is watching the show, because it’s probably the first time that a lot of people in America got a chance to see it.” - FZ appearing on the Mike Douglas Show, 1976

 

Because Token has never been commercially released until now, it is one of the most sought after Frank Zappa programs. 

 

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ROBERT RANDOLPH & THE FAMILY BAND

SET TO RELEASE LICKETY SPLIT

JULY 16 ON BLUE NOTE RECORDS;

FIRST NEW STUDIO ALBUM IN THREE YEARS

Robert Randolph, the slide guitar jam/rock/blues phenomenon who’s been captivating global audiences for a decade, announced to reporters assembled at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Music Festival in Madison Square Garden that his long-awaited new album is titled Lickety Split.The new record is Randolph’s first for Blue Note and is to be released July 16. Lickety Split represents the first new studio album for Randolph & The Family Band in three years.

“This record has elements from all of our earlier records,” Randolph explains. “There are cool songs with lots of guitar and we can see the growth of our band in the new recordings.” “With this record we got to reconnect with the originality and creativity that fans fell in love with from the very beginning. This is the music that we started out playing and now that we are back on a roll I'm sure we won't keep our fans waiting three years for the next album.”

Randolph co-produced the 12-track album and co-wrote 9 of the 12 songs.  Randolph has reconnected with songwriting partners such as Drew Ramsey and Shannon Sanders, with whom he composed such Family Band hits as “Ain’t Nothing Nothing Wrong With That” as well as Grammy Award winner Tommy Sims, perhaps best known for “Change The World”.  Any one familiar with Randolph’s high energy live performances are familiar with his love for reinterpreting classic songs Family Band style.  Lickety Split honors that tradition with enthusiastic interpretations of The Ohio Players’ dance-groove “Love Rollercoaster” and The Rascals’ (and Olympics’) “Good Lovin’.” Randolph recorded the album with his longtime bandmates and actual family members, The Family Band, including Marcus Randolph (drums), Danyel Morgan (bass, vocals), Brett Haas (guitar, keys) and Lenesha Randolph (vocals) along with special guests Trombone Shorty and Carlos Santana. The album was engineered by Eddie Kramer [Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin] and mixed by Jim Scott [Tedeschi Trucks].

The new album kicks off with the vigorous anthem “Amped Up” capturing the high-energy excitement that is so identified with Randolph’s legendary stage performances. That celebration of creative renewal continues with “Born Again.” “It's about finding the joy again," says Randolph. "At first it was more of a love song, about the sense you get when you find the right person. Then, as we were recording this new music with a whole new sense of direction and feeling free again it all came together. It's not a religious thing, it's just new energy—which is really the old energy that I had at the beginning of my career."

Randolph also notes that the title track of Lickety Split is one of his favorites.  The song features Randolph joined by his sister Lenesha on vocals.  "What's great about that one is that it's something we actually played in church, just like that," he says. "There's a section in the service called the 'Jubilee Jam Session Time'.  

Robert Randolph & The Family Band first gained national attention with the release of the album Live at the Wetlands in 2002. The concert recording was taped at New York’s historical Wetlands Preserve Club before it closed in 2001. The band followed that acclaimed live album with their first studio recording Unclassified, attracting the attention of Eric Clapton. Since then, the band has toured with Clapton, Santana and the Dave Matthews Band and, as a headline act, has developed a large, passionate following built upon legendary performances at such major festivals as Bonnaroo, Crossroads, Hard Rock Calling, Montreux Jazz, Austin City Limits and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.   Later albums, Colorblind and We Walk This Road,enjoyed critical and commercial success led by signature Randolph composed songs such as "Ain't Nothing Wrong With That". Rolling Stone named Robert Randolph one of "The 100 Greatest Guitarists," the only pedal steel player so honored, calling him "one of the most intense live acts in all of jamdom" and citing his solos as "perpetually cresting, lightning-fast explorations."

“Robert Randolph is an American Original," says Don Was, President of Randolph's new label, Blue Note Records. "He has mastered what is, arguably, the most complex instrument in the world and developed a unique voice that is equal parts street-corner church and Bonnaroo. This album finally captures the energy and excitement of his legendary live performances.”  Fans worldwide have taken notice of this American original, with audiences and critics alike singing the praises of this unique superstar. “I’m the only one who does what I do,” sums up Randolph, simply. After years away from the recording studio, Robert Randolph & The Family Band have finally come back with Lickety Split.

Track listing for Lickety Split:

1.     Amped Up                                               3:18

2.     Born Again                                               4:20

3.     New Orleans                                            4.11

4.     Take The Party                                        4:09

5.     Brand New Wayo                                    4:36

6.     Lickety Split                                             4:01

7.     Blacky Joe                                               5:49

8.     Love Rollercoaster                                  3:12

9.     All American                                            2:43

10.  Get Ready                                                5:07

11.  Welcome Home                                       6:11

12.  Good Lovin'                                              2:55

FROM PETER, PAUL AND MARY AND THE KINGSTON TRIO TO JOAN BAEZ AND BOB DYLAN, STARVISTA ENTERTAINMENT/TIME LIFE RELEASES THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE COLLECTION OF FOLK AND FOLK ROCK HITS

EVER ASSEMBLED

THE FOLK YEARS

8-CD Collection Brings Together Over 120 Original, Classic Songs and the Legendary Artists Who Performed them,

Including The Weavers, Pete Seeger, The Kingston Trio, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Seekers, Simon and Garfunkel, Judy Collins, The Byrds and More;

Also Included in this Handsome Collector’s Set is a 52-page Lyric Book and the Bonus DVD “Legends of Folk: The Village Scene” Featuring 19 Legendary Performances

 

There was a time when folk music was heard all across America, from coffee houses to concert halls, when a new generation of folk groups and singer/songwriters helped to change the sound of music forever.  Now, THE FOLK YEARS brings listeners back to a time when songs were woven from the many threads of America’s rich musical tapestry by now legendary and iconic artists such as The Weavers, The Kingston Trio, Peter, Paul and Mary, Bob Dylan, The Seekers, Joan Baez, Judy Collins, Simon and Garfunkel, The Byrds, Don McLean and many more.  For fans of the genre, THE FOLK YEARS, from StarVista Entertainment/Time Life is the most comprehensive collection of folk and folk rock hits ever assembled. Available in an 8 CD set, the collection is housed in a handsome box which also includes a 52-page lyrics booklet including liner notes and the bonus DVD “Legends of Folk: The Village Scene”, a documentary bursting with rare and historic full-length performances.  THE FOLK YEARS can be purchased either online atwww.timelife.com/products/the-folk-years or by calling 1-800-950-7887.

 

From the greatest hits from the folk revival of the ‘50s and the legendary folk scene of the early ‘60s to the emergence of folk rock, and even the beginning of the singer-songwriter era, never before has one collection captured the very essence of folk music like THE FOLK YEARS.  Timeless songs featured include  “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” and “Tom Dooley” by The Kingston Trio, “Lemon Tree” by Trini Lopez, “California Dreamin’” and “Monday, Monday” by The Mamas & the Papas, “Turn, Turn, Turn (To Everything There is a Season)” and “Mr. Tambourine Man” by the Byrds, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by Peter, Paul and Mary, “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” by Joan Baez, “Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright” and It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue” by Bob Dylan and more.  Also included is “Legends of Folk: The Village Scene” from 4-time Emmy® award winning director Jim Brown and hosted by Peter, Paul and Mary’s Noel Paul Stookey.  Originally seen on PBS, the feature-length documentary includes rare and historic full-length performances by artists like Simon Garfunkel and Joan Baez, plus Dylan’s historic performance of “Blowin’ in the Wind” at the Newport Folk Festival of 1963.  It also features interviews with such folk luminaries as Michelle Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas, Don McLean, John Sebastian of The Lovin’ Spoonful, Maria Muldaur and others who strummed and sang through the ‘60s. 

For any fan of folk and folk rock music, FOLK YEARS is the only comprehensive collection  delivering all the classic songs and legendary artists into one unforgettable CD/DVD set.