|
|
|
|
|
Showing posts with label John Paul White. Show all posts
Showing posts with label John Paul White. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Media Release: Shovels & Rope and Sharon Van Etten Surprise release Beach Boys track ahead of “Busted Jukebox, Vol. 3” - out Feb. 5, 2021
Friday, October 21, 2016
Recent Releases Astound: Big Star, Temple of the Dog, The Mavericks, Bryan Adams, Thomas Dolby
Several truly great rock albums have been reissued via deluxe and expanded must-have versions, while new concert titles from the Mavericks and Bryan Adams, and an engrossing memoir from groundbreaking music maker Thomas Dolby make for a winning mix of music-minded offerings.
Artist: Big Star
Title: Complete Third (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Radiohead, Big Star, the Posies
Tell me more: More than 40 years after it was recorded, Big Star's "Third" LP is receiving a well-deserved deluxe and expanded treatment that inspires with every play. This 3-disc audio CD release Complete Third (soon to be available on vinyl) is sure to please every fan of the legendary Memphis-spawned power pop cult heroes, whose third album was recorded in 1974 and was deemed non-commercial and shelved resulting in the band breaking up late that year. While the third album was ultimately released commercially in 1978, and subsequently has earned its place as one of the greatest albums of all time. The newly-issued Complete Third is packed with 69 tracks; the release's three discs chronicle the path of "Third" from acoustic demos, rough and alternate mixes to the final masters. The printed material included in the package is terrific, including a wealth of photos, an essay from journalist/A&R executive Bud Scoppa, and notes from surviving Big Star member Jody Stephens, producer-musician Mitch Easter (Let's Active), Gary Louis (of the Jayhawks), Susanna Hoffs and Debbi Peterson (of the Bangles), and many more. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.
Artist: Temple of the Dog
Title: Temple of the Dog (A&M Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Mother Love Bone
Tell me more: Temple of the Dog released its self-titled album in April 1991, with the newly-issued 25th anniversary of the release revisiting the landmark disc featuring the legendary lineup of singer Chris Cornell (of Soundgarden fame), rhythm guitarist Stone Gossard, bassist Jeff Ament, lead guitarist Mike McCready and drummer Matt Cameron, along with Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder. There are so many treasures across this wide-ranging set, but a demo of the bluesy slide guitar foray "Black Cat," live and alternative versions of the rock staple "Say Hello 2 Heaven" and an early demo of the grunge rocker "Angel of Fire" are among those I discovered. "Temple of the Dog" is available via four different configurations; a four-disc version (reviewed here) features the original album newly mixed by Brendan O' Brien, dozens of previously-unreleased tracks and demos, and live performances and videos. Information: TempleOfTheDog.com.
Artist: The Mavericks
Title: All Night Live Volume 1 (Mono Mundo Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Roy Orbison, the Mavericks, Raul Malo
Tell me more: Anyone who has ever seen the Mavericks live knows the thrill the genre-defying band brings to the concert stage with every performance. The release of All Night Live Volume 1 is an out-and-out thrill, with the quartet delivering its intoxicating mix of Americana, western Swing, early rock 'n' roll, neo-traditional country and Latin rhythms via 16 songs spanning the Miami-spawned group's career. Since reforming in 2012, singer-guitarist Raul Malo, lead guitarist Eddie Perez, drummer Paul Deakin and keyboardist/singer Jerry Dale McFadden have somehow become even more formidable as a live act than during the group's infancy when this writer first caught them in the early 1990s. On the new live set, the infectious and rich mix of styles reaches its zenith on dance-minded performances of "All Night Long," "Fall Apart," "Dance in the Moonlight" as well as via beautiful ballads such as "Back In Your Arms Again," "Pardon Me" and an affecting version of Neil Young's "Harvest Moon" all showcasing Ralo's soaring tenor. Information: TheMavericksBand.com.
Artist: Bryan Adams
Title: Wembley 1996 Live (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: Bryan Adams, Melissa Etheridge, Bobby Fuller Four
Tell me more: Captured live at a sold-out Wembley Stadium on July 27, 2016, Bryan Adams and his amazing five-member band were on fire. Fortunately, cameras were rolling and Wembley 1996 Live (available on DVD and digital) fully showcases the excitement of the Canadian rocker performing a full-length set in front of 70,000 British fans. Among the standouts on the memorable concert performance are the rousing "Kids Wanna Rock," sing-along "Cuts Like a Knife," scorching "It's Only Love" featuring Melissa Etheridge sharing lead vocals with Adams (with some fiery lead guitar work from Keith Scott) and a festive cover of the Bobby Fuller Four 1966 hit "I Fought the Law." An anthemic "Heaven" with the audience singing much of the song closes out the epic performance film. Information: eagle-rock.com.
Book title: The Speed of Sound: Breaking the Barriers Between Music and Technology
Author: Thomas Dolby
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Hardcover: 288 pages
Tell me more: Anyone who has seen singer-songwriter-keyboardist Thomas Dolby in concert knows he is a terrific storyteller. Thanks to the release of his fantastic new memoir "The Speed of Sound: Breaking the Barriers Between Music and Technology," new light is shed on one of the music world's most interesting and original architects. Recalling his rise from a struggling teenager barely making ends meet to fortuitous meetings with the celebrated likes of producer Robert "Mutt" Lange, Andy Partridge of XTC and pop icon Michael Jackson, Dolby expertly revisits his youth, the highs and lows of his musical career (including "She Blinded Me With Science") and recent success as a Silicon Valley innovator and university professor. The articulate, honest and fast-moving narrative sheds light on not only Dolby, but the myriad of fascinating personalities who are linked to Dolby's own unique journey. Information: flatironbooks.com.
Robert Kinsler
Title: Complete Third (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Radiohead, Big Star, the Posies
Tell me more: More than 40 years after it was recorded, Big Star's "Third" LP is receiving a well-deserved deluxe and expanded treatment that inspires with every play. This 3-disc audio CD release Complete Third (soon to be available on vinyl) is sure to please every fan of the legendary Memphis-spawned power pop cult heroes, whose third album was recorded in 1974 and was deemed non-commercial and shelved resulting in the band breaking up late that year. While the third album was ultimately released commercially in 1978, and subsequently has earned its place as one of the greatest albums of all time. The newly-issued Complete Third is packed with 69 tracks; the release's three discs chronicle the path of "Third" from acoustic demos, rough and alternate mixes to the final masters. The printed material included in the package is terrific, including a wealth of photos, an essay from journalist/A&R executive Bud Scoppa, and notes from surviving Big Star member Jody Stephens, producer-musician Mitch Easter (Let's Active), Gary Louis (of the Jayhawks), Susanna Hoffs and Debbi Peterson (of the Bangles), and many more. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.
Title: Temple of the Dog (A&M Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Mother Love Bone
Tell me more: Temple of the Dog released its self-titled album in April 1991, with the newly-issued 25th anniversary of the release revisiting the landmark disc featuring the legendary lineup of singer Chris Cornell (of Soundgarden fame), rhythm guitarist Stone Gossard, bassist Jeff Ament, lead guitarist Mike McCready and drummer Matt Cameron, along with Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder. There are so many treasures across this wide-ranging set, but a demo of the bluesy slide guitar foray "Black Cat," live and alternative versions of the rock staple "Say Hello 2 Heaven" and an early demo of the grunge rocker "Angel of Fire" are among those I discovered. "Temple of the Dog" is available via four different configurations; a four-disc version (reviewed here) features the original album newly mixed by Brendan O' Brien, dozens of previously-unreleased tracks and demos, and live performances and videos. Information: TempleOfTheDog.com.
Title: All Night Live Volume 1 (Mono Mundo Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Roy Orbison, the Mavericks, Raul Malo
Tell me more: Anyone who has ever seen the Mavericks live knows the thrill the genre-defying band brings to the concert stage with every performance. The release of All Night Live Volume 1 is an out-and-out thrill, with the quartet delivering its intoxicating mix of Americana, western Swing, early rock 'n' roll, neo-traditional country and Latin rhythms via 16 songs spanning the Miami-spawned group's career. Since reforming in 2012, singer-guitarist Raul Malo, lead guitarist Eddie Perez, drummer Paul Deakin and keyboardist/singer Jerry Dale McFadden have somehow become even more formidable as a live act than during the group's infancy when this writer first caught them in the early 1990s. On the new live set, the infectious and rich mix of styles reaches its zenith on dance-minded performances of "All Night Long," "Fall Apart," "Dance in the Moonlight" as well as via beautiful ballads such as "Back In Your Arms Again," "Pardon Me" and an affecting version of Neil Young's "Harvest Moon" all showcasing Ralo's soaring tenor. Information: TheMavericksBand.com.
Title: Wembley 1996 Live (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: Bryan Adams, Melissa Etheridge, Bobby Fuller Four
Tell me more: Captured live at a sold-out Wembley Stadium on July 27, 2016, Bryan Adams and his amazing five-member band were on fire. Fortunately, cameras were rolling and Wembley 1996 Live (available on DVD and digital) fully showcases the excitement of the Canadian rocker performing a full-length set in front of 70,000 British fans. Among the standouts on the memorable concert performance are the rousing "Kids Wanna Rock," sing-along "Cuts Like a Knife," scorching "It's Only Love" featuring Melissa Etheridge sharing lead vocals with Adams (with some fiery lead guitar work from Keith Scott) and a festive cover of the Bobby Fuller Four 1966 hit "I Fought the Law." An anthemic "Heaven" with the audience singing much of the song closes out the epic performance film. Information: eagle-rock.com.
Author: Thomas Dolby
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Hardcover: 288 pages
Tell me more: Anyone who has seen singer-songwriter-keyboardist Thomas Dolby in concert knows he is a terrific storyteller. Thanks to the release of his fantastic new memoir "The Speed of Sound: Breaking the Barriers Between Music and Technology," new light is shed on one of the music world's most interesting and original architects. Recalling his rise from a struggling teenager barely making ends meet to fortuitous meetings with the celebrated likes of producer Robert "Mutt" Lange, Andy Partridge of XTC and pop icon Michael Jackson, Dolby expertly revisits his youth, the highs and lows of his musical career (including "She Blinded Me With Science") and recent success as a Silicon Valley innovator and university professor. The articulate, honest and fast-moving narrative sheds light on not only Dolby, but the myriad of fascinating personalities who are linked to Dolby's own unique journey. Information: flatironbooks.com.
Robert Kinsler
Saturday, October 15, 2016
Album reviews: Justin Hayward, Game Theory, Dwight Yoakam, Bobby Rush
Those whose musical taste runs the gamut all have something to enjoy thanks to an expansive range of highly-recommended new titles.
Artist: Justin Hayward
Title: All the Way (Eagle Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Justin Hayward, the Moody Blues
Tell me more: Singer-guitarist Justin Hayward has one of the most distinctive and enduring voices in all rock, having emerged on the scene in 1966 as singer, songwriter and guitarist with the Moody Blues. Hayward's wonderful All the Way goes a long way in shining an additional bright light on Hayward by collecting recordings that feature the artist singing songs from his solo career, as well as reworkings of material from the Moody Blues and a brand new song "The Wind Of Heaven" (the theme song for the film of the same name). The Renaissance-flavored "Broken Dream," carefree Americana-tinged "Troubadour," tender and symphonic take on Don McLean's "Vincent" and a terrific live performance of "Nights in White Satin" recorded in the late 1990s are among the memorable songs on this collection, essential for fans of Hayward and the Moody Blues. Information: JustinHayward.com.
Buy 'All The Way' today
Artist: Game Theory
Title: The Big Shot Chronicles (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Let's Active, Rain Parade, R.E.M.
Tell me more: Thirty years after its original release, Game Theory's vital third album The Big Shot Chronicles has been reissued as a deluxe edition that features the original 12-track album remastered along with 13 bonus tracks (nine of which are previously unissued). Game Theory singer-songwriter-guitarist Scott Miller (who sadly died in 2013; he was only 53) was a unique talent who crafted songs that tapped into youthful fervor while the songs themselves were bolstered by a mix of jangly melodies and smart indie rock arrangements. The range of material on Omnivore Recordings' new edition of "The Big Shot Chronicles" includes the driving "Erica's Word" (featuring a wistful vocal performance and great lead guitar solo courtesy of Miller), crackling "Make Any Vows," poignant "Regenisraen" and psychedelic-flavored "Too Closely." Among the interesting bonus tracks is an instrumental version of Vince Guaraldi's "Linus And Lucy." The CD booklet is wonderful, spanning 28 pages and featuring a wealth of photos, production notes and liner notes that shed insight into Game Theory's amazing The Big Shot Chronicles. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.
Buy 'The Big Shot Chronicles' here
Artist: Dwight Yoakam
Title: Swimmin' Pools, Movie Stars... (Sugar Hill)
You might like if you enjoy: Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley
Tell me more: Groundbreaking country singer-songwriter Dwight Yoakam has returned to his rural Kentucky roots with his first-ever, bluegrass-centered full-length album Swimmin' Pools, Movie Stars… (out now via Sugar Hill Records). The uptempo "What I Don't Know," more introspective "These Arms," breezy "Guitars, Cadillacs" and rip roaring "Gone (That'll Be Me)" shine here, all showcasing Yoakam's potent and authentic vocals. Everywhere lush arrangements filled with strumming guitars, shimmering mandolin, plucking banjo and expert fiddle work drape the songs with a wonderful Appalachia glow. Yoakam's reworked originals are not the only prize here; a touching version of "Purple Rain" recorded in the immediate aftermath of Prince's death on April 21, 2016 closes out the dozen-song collection. Information: dwightyoakam.com.
Buy 'Swimmin' Pools, Movie Stars…' here
Artist: Bobby Rush
Title: Porcupine Meat (Rounder Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Doyle Bramhall II, Joe Bonamassa, Keb' Mo'
Tell me more: Eighty-two years young, Bobby Rush has returned with the intoxicating Porcupine Meat, a dozen-track set that allows ample time for the blues singer to deliver one of the best albums of his long and celebrated career. Mixing up his blues-based sound with funk, soul, R&B and related styles, Rush is unique for genre heroes now in their eighties who still push forward as a singer, songwriter and sonic explorer. Porcupine Meat features a wealth of potent material; the affecting R&B first-person account of racial injustice "Got Me Accused" features Rush as a double threat courtesy of a nuanced and affecting vocal performance and moving blues harp solo. Later, Rush lives up to the title of the glorious "Funk o' de Funk" with a infectious performance while the soulful "Me, Myself and I" looks at romantic loss with real life honesty with a guest appearance from guitar great Joe Bonamassa that brings additional power to the blues ballad with his soaring soloing. Information: Rounder.com.
Purchase 'Porcupine Meat' here
Robert Kinsler
Artist: Justin HaywardTitle: All the Way (Eagle Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Justin Hayward, the Moody Blues
Tell me more: Singer-guitarist Justin Hayward has one of the most distinctive and enduring voices in all rock, having emerged on the scene in 1966 as singer, songwriter and guitarist with the Moody Blues. Hayward's wonderful All the Way goes a long way in shining an additional bright light on Hayward by collecting recordings that feature the artist singing songs from his solo career, as well as reworkings of material from the Moody Blues and a brand new song "The Wind Of Heaven" (the theme song for the film of the same name). The Renaissance-flavored "Broken Dream," carefree Americana-tinged "Troubadour," tender and symphonic take on Don McLean's "Vincent" and a terrific live performance of "Nights in White Satin" recorded in the late 1990s are among the memorable songs on this collection, essential for fans of Hayward and the Moody Blues. Information: JustinHayward.com.
Buy 'All The Way' today
Artist: Game TheoryTitle: The Big Shot Chronicles (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Let's Active, Rain Parade, R.E.M.
Tell me more: Thirty years after its original release, Game Theory's vital third album The Big Shot Chronicles has been reissued as a deluxe edition that features the original 12-track album remastered along with 13 bonus tracks (nine of which are previously unissued). Game Theory singer-songwriter-guitarist Scott Miller (who sadly died in 2013; he was only 53) was a unique talent who crafted songs that tapped into youthful fervor while the songs themselves were bolstered by a mix of jangly melodies and smart indie rock arrangements. The range of material on Omnivore Recordings' new edition of "The Big Shot Chronicles" includes the driving "Erica's Word" (featuring a wistful vocal performance and great lead guitar solo courtesy of Miller), crackling "Make Any Vows," poignant "Regenisraen" and psychedelic-flavored "Too Closely." Among the interesting bonus tracks is an instrumental version of Vince Guaraldi's "Linus And Lucy." The CD booklet is wonderful, spanning 28 pages and featuring a wealth of photos, production notes and liner notes that shed insight into Game Theory's amazing The Big Shot Chronicles. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.
Buy 'The Big Shot Chronicles' here
Artist: Dwight YoakamTitle: Swimmin' Pools, Movie Stars... (Sugar Hill)
You might like if you enjoy: Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley
Tell me more: Groundbreaking country singer-songwriter Dwight Yoakam has returned to his rural Kentucky roots with his first-ever, bluegrass-centered full-length album Swimmin' Pools, Movie Stars… (out now via Sugar Hill Records). The uptempo "What I Don't Know," more introspective "These Arms," breezy "Guitars, Cadillacs" and rip roaring "Gone (That'll Be Me)" shine here, all showcasing Yoakam's potent and authentic vocals. Everywhere lush arrangements filled with strumming guitars, shimmering mandolin, plucking banjo and expert fiddle work drape the songs with a wonderful Appalachia glow. Yoakam's reworked originals are not the only prize here; a touching version of "Purple Rain" recorded in the immediate aftermath of Prince's death on April 21, 2016 closes out the dozen-song collection. Information: dwightyoakam.com.
Buy 'Swimmin' Pools, Movie Stars…' here
Artist: Bobby RushTitle: Porcupine Meat (Rounder Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Doyle Bramhall II, Joe Bonamassa, Keb' Mo'
Tell me more: Eighty-two years young, Bobby Rush has returned with the intoxicating Porcupine Meat, a dozen-track set that allows ample time for the blues singer to deliver one of the best albums of his long and celebrated career. Mixing up his blues-based sound with funk, soul, R&B and related styles, Rush is unique for genre heroes now in their eighties who still push forward as a singer, songwriter and sonic explorer. Porcupine Meat features a wealth of potent material; the affecting R&B first-person account of racial injustice "Got Me Accused" features Rush as a double threat courtesy of a nuanced and affecting vocal performance and moving blues harp solo. Later, Rush lives up to the title of the glorious "Funk o' de Funk" with a infectious performance while the soulful "Me, Myself and I" looks at romantic loss with real life honesty with a guest appearance from guitar great Joe Bonamassa that brings additional power to the blues ballad with his soaring soloing. Information: Rounder.com.
Purchase 'Porcupine Meat' here
Robert Kinsler
Sunday, April 03, 2016
A musical tour of the universe: Mystery Science Theater 3000, 'Southern Family,' Malawi Mouse Boys
A wide range of new releases truly celebrate the far-flung corners of this world and beyond.
DVD Title: Mystery Science Theater 3000: Vol. XXXV (Shout! Factory)
You might like if you enjoy: Rifftrax, Cinematic Titanic
Tell me more: With the impending re-launch of the comedy sci-fi classic Mystery Science Theater 3000 later this year, now is a great time to rediscover original episodes of the Peabody Award-winning series (also known as "MST3K") that ran 11 seasons on The Comedy Channel/Comedy Central and later the Sci-Fi Channel. The newly-released Mystery Science Theater 3000: Vol. XXXV features the Joel, Mike, and their robot pals Tom Servo and Crow offering up a galactic spaceship full of quips while watching four B-movies. "Being From Another Planet" will be of particular interest to music fans. The crew of the Satellite of Love delivers dozens of zingers related to all things music; where else will you find references to Abba, Jerry Garcia, Neil Diamond, the Alan Parsons Project, the Monkees, the Bee Gees, Jackson Browne, ZZ Top and even composer John Cage that come amidst the showing of a bad science fiction flick? A bonus feature includes a new interview with composer Richard Band who scored the the film (originally titled "Time Walker"). Other previously-unreleased episodes featured on the new MST3K set include "Teenage Cave Man," "12 to the Moon," and "Deathstalker and the Warriors from Hell." Information: shoutfactory.com.
Purchase 'Mystery Science Theater 3000: XXXV' on DVD here
Artist: Enrique Bunbury
DVD Title: El Camino Mas Largo (Eagle Rock Entertainment/700g Films)
You might like if you enjoy: Heroes del Silencio, David Bowie, Alejandro Sanz
Tell me more: American audiences are just catching up to Spanish rocker Enrique Bunbury. Originally a member of the legendary Rock en Español outfit Heroes del Silencio that enjoyed tremendous success throughout the 1980s and early '90s in their native Spain and around the globe, the native of Zaragoza, Spain has enjoyed subsequent success as a solo artist. The aptly-titled DVD title El Camino Mas Largo ("The Longest Road") chronicles Bunbury's 2010 tour, which kicked off on Nov. 11, 2010 when he performed to more than 90,000 fans in a single show in Mexico City; Bunbury's trek eventually brought the Spanish singer to the U.S. with his wife and pet cat in tow for what would ultimately prove to be an experience that was as much about examining his own life as it was reaching new audiences in America. This film (the DVD includes behind-the-scenes, the official trailing, deleted scenes and more) will obviously be of interest to fans of Bunbury, but will likely interest lovers of Spanish rock, world music and compelling music documentaries too. Information: eagle-rock.com.
Purchase 'El Camino Mas Largo' here
Artists: John Paul White, Miranda Lambert, Zac Brown, Jamey Johnson, more
Title: Southern Family (Elektra Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Americana, the Civil Wars, Shooter Jennings
Tell me more: "Southern Family" is the latest collection released through the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Spotlight Music program; the 12-track collection features a slew of fantastic recordings showcasing some of today's top-tier Americana and country music artists. Highlights (and there are many!) include John Paul White's affecting "Simple Song," Zac Brown's traditional country-mining "Grandma's Garden," Brandy Clark's beautiful "I Cried" and Jamey Johnson's self-penned acoustic gem "Mama's Table." In addition to the fine musical offerings, the collection comes with recipes from four of the artists (including John Paul White's Black Walnut Cake and Miranda Lambert's Mama's Meatloaf). Information: "Southern Family" is available exclusively at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations and online at crackerbarrel.com.
Artist: Malawi Mouse Boys
Title: Forever is 4 You (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Vusi Mahlasela's "Say Africa"
Tell me more: As infectious as it is exotic, Malawi-based group Malawi Mouse Boys' album Forever Is 4 You (set for release on April 8, 2016) has such a beautiful spirit it won't matter whether or not you understand the intoxicating Chichewa language used by the singers. Produced by Grammy winner Ian Brennan, Forever Is 4 You is the gospel group's third album release but marks the first time one of their discs has been released in the U.S. There is truly songs that are joyful ("Ndiyenda Nkuunika" which translates into "I Walk in the Light" and "Zikutamanda" meaning "It Is"). There are times when the material turns more melancholy (such as with the sparse "Ndatopa Nawe" meaning "I'm Tired of You"), but even there the spirit of the Malawi Mouse Boys shines through with pure elation. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.
Purchase 'Forever Is 4 You' via Amazon
Robert Kinsler
DVD Title: Mystery Science Theater 3000: Vol. XXXV (Shout! Factory)You might like if you enjoy: Rifftrax, Cinematic Titanic
Tell me more: With the impending re-launch of the comedy sci-fi classic Mystery Science Theater 3000 later this year, now is a great time to rediscover original episodes of the Peabody Award-winning series (also known as "MST3K") that ran 11 seasons on The Comedy Channel/Comedy Central and later the Sci-Fi Channel. The newly-released Mystery Science Theater 3000: Vol. XXXV features the Joel, Mike, and their robot pals Tom Servo and Crow offering up a galactic spaceship full of quips while watching four B-movies. "Being From Another Planet" will be of particular interest to music fans. The crew of the Satellite of Love delivers dozens of zingers related to all things music; where else will you find references to Abba, Jerry Garcia, Neil Diamond, the Alan Parsons Project, the Monkees, the Bee Gees, Jackson Browne, ZZ Top and even composer John Cage that come amidst the showing of a bad science fiction flick? A bonus feature includes a new interview with composer Richard Band who scored the the film (originally titled "Time Walker"). Other previously-unreleased episodes featured on the new MST3K set include "Teenage Cave Man," "12 to the Moon," and "Deathstalker and the Warriors from Hell." Information: shoutfactory.com.
Purchase 'Mystery Science Theater 3000: XXXV' on DVD here
Artist: Enrique BunburyDVD Title: El Camino Mas Largo (Eagle Rock Entertainment/700g Films)
You might like if you enjoy: Heroes del Silencio, David Bowie, Alejandro Sanz
Tell me more: American audiences are just catching up to Spanish rocker Enrique Bunbury. Originally a member of the legendary Rock en Español outfit Heroes del Silencio that enjoyed tremendous success throughout the 1980s and early '90s in their native Spain and around the globe, the native of Zaragoza, Spain has enjoyed subsequent success as a solo artist. The aptly-titled DVD title El Camino Mas Largo ("The Longest Road") chronicles Bunbury's 2010 tour, which kicked off on Nov. 11, 2010 when he performed to more than 90,000 fans in a single show in Mexico City; Bunbury's trek eventually brought the Spanish singer to the U.S. with his wife and pet cat in tow for what would ultimately prove to be an experience that was as much about examining his own life as it was reaching new audiences in America. This film (the DVD includes behind-the-scenes, the official trailing, deleted scenes and more) will obviously be of interest to fans of Bunbury, but will likely interest lovers of Spanish rock, world music and compelling music documentaries too. Information: eagle-rock.com.
Purchase 'El Camino Mas Largo' here
Title: Southern Family (Elektra Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Americana, the Civil Wars, Shooter Jennings
Tell me more: "Southern Family" is the latest collection released through the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Spotlight Music program; the 12-track collection features a slew of fantastic recordings showcasing some of today's top-tier Americana and country music artists. Highlights (and there are many!) include John Paul White's affecting "Simple Song," Zac Brown's traditional country-mining "Grandma's Garden," Brandy Clark's beautiful "I Cried" and Jamey Johnson's self-penned acoustic gem "Mama's Table." In addition to the fine musical offerings, the collection comes with recipes from four of the artists (including John Paul White's Black Walnut Cake and Miranda Lambert's Mama's Meatloaf). Information: "Southern Family" is available exclusively at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations and online at crackerbarrel.com.
Title: Forever is 4 You (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Vusi Mahlasela's "Say Africa"
Tell me more: As infectious as it is exotic, Malawi-based group Malawi Mouse Boys' album Forever Is 4 You (set for release on April 8, 2016) has such a beautiful spirit it won't matter whether or not you understand the intoxicating Chichewa language used by the singers. Produced by Grammy winner Ian Brennan, Forever Is 4 You is the gospel group's third album release but marks the first time one of their discs has been released in the U.S. There is truly songs that are joyful ("Ndiyenda Nkuunika" which translates into "I Walk in the Light" and "Zikutamanda" meaning "It Is"). There are times when the material turns more melancholy (such as with the sparse "Ndatopa Nawe" meaning "I'm Tired of You"), but even there the spirit of the Malawi Mouse Boys shines through with pure elation. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.
Purchase 'Forever Is 4 You' via Amazon
Robert Kinsler
Thursday, November 01, 2012
Sights and Sounds: Led Zeppelin, Third Day, Punch Brothers, The Civil Wars, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
Lots of news breaking today...I'll get right to it everybody!
Led Zeppelin have released a video of their performance of the epic track "Kashmir" from their forthcoming concert film, Celebration Day.
Filmed during the band's 2007 reunion show at London's O2 Arena, Celebration Day was released in theaters earlier this month and will see a retail release on CD, DVD, digital, vinyl, and Blu-Ray on November 19. Click here to watch the full performance of "Kashmir."
Third Day to kick off street week with performance on 'The Tonight Show With Jay Leno' on Friday night, Nov. 2
Third Day's new album Miracle won't arrive until next Tuesday (Nov. 6, 2012), but fans will get an early feel for the new disc when the Atlanta rockers perform the lead-off track "Hit Me Like a Bomb" on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno on Friday, Nov. 2. Following the performance of the song, there will be a limited-time free download of the potent rocker on the band's official Web site, www.ThirdDay.com.
The 12-track Miracle was produced by Brendan O'Brien (Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Train, The Killers) and recorded in the band's Atlanta studio called The Quarry.
Two of Americana's best artists are being featured on Austin City Limits on Saturday, Nov. 3.
The Civil Wars and Punch Brothers will each perform sets on the next episode of the popular show, which will air on PBS stations on Saturday. Here is the release that arrived in my inbox earlier today:
Austin, TX—November 1, 2012—It's a night of great chemistry as Austin City Limits (ACL) presents new American acoustic music in a double-bill with The Civil Wars and Punch Brothers. The brand new episode airs Saturday, November 3rd on PBS (check local listings for times).
The Civil Wars bring their dynamic charisma to the Austin City Limits stage to perform tracks from the Grammy-winning debut Barton Hollow. A folk-pop duo comprised of vocalist Joy Williams and guitarist John Paul White, The Civil Wars made an appearance last year in the ACL Presents special, Americana Music Festival 2011, and ACL has been excited to have them back for a full set ever since. The magnetic pair create Appalachian-tinged folk melodies with a minimalist approach that has caught the folk-pop world by storm. The obvious chemistry between the singer-songwriters is as infectious as their grassroots success – over 250,000 copies of their critically-acclaimed debut album Barton Hollow sold without major industry support. “We are so amped to be here,” says The Civil Wars' Joy Williams from the ACL stage. “I’m still pinching myself that we get to play here tonight.” In addition to their originals, the duo wows the audience with inspired renditions of Michael Jackson's “Billie Jean” and Smashing Pumpkins' “Disarm” in their ACL debut.
Says ACL Executive Producer Terry Lickona, “I was there when Joy and John Paul performed for one minute on this year’s Grammy Awards Show, and that one minute had more impact than almost anything else on the show. That’s just the way they are – their music will grab your ear and your heart in one fell swoop!”
"When you start a band, this is all you really want to be able to do—play Austin City Limits," says Punch Brothers' leader Chris Thile from the ACL stage. Thile should know, the appearance marks his fourth turn on ACL, including two with his long-time band, the progressive bluegrass trio Nickel Creek. In 2006, mandolin virtuoso Thile assembled the all-star quintet Punch Brothers (the name comes from the Mark Twain short story Punch, Brothers, Punch!). The quintet’s boundary-less mix of indie-rock, bluegrass, classical music, jazz, folk, and pop has attracted critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. The Grammy-nominated band performs tracks off their three albums, including 2012's Who’s Feeling Young Now? Paste Magazine calls the album “a masterpiece” and declared “every track is a small wonder of some sort,” while Rolling Stone claims it “strikes a nice balance between old-school and modern.” In October, 31-year Thile was awarded a MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant” for his creative vision.
“I’ve been a fan of Chris’s music since he was a 13-year-old mandolin child prodigy, and it’s been inspiring to watch him take his music to new places only he can imagine,” says Lickona. “He’s got a band of kindred spirits who create music that really defies labels – unless you use all of them!”
The Civil Wars setlist:
From This Valley
My Father's Father
Billie Jean
Poison & Wine
Disarm
Barton Hollow
Punch Brothers setlist:
Movement and Location
Who's Feeling Young Now?
Next to the Trash
Flippen (The Flip)
Don't Get Married Without Me
Rye Whiskey
Season 38 Current Broadcast Schedule (seven additional episodes/artists to be announced)
October 6, 2012
Radiohead
October 13, 2012
Bon Iver
October 20, 2012
Bonnie Raitt with Mavis Staples
October 27, 2012
The Shins
Dr. Dog
November 3, 2012
The Civil Wars
Punch Brothers
November 10, 2012
ACL Presents: Americana Music Festival 2012 (Hosted by Jim Lauderdale and featuring performances by Bonnie Raitt with John Hiatt, Alabama Shakes, Carolina Chocolate Drops, Richard Thompson, The Mavericks and more)
The complete line-up for the full 13-week season, including seven episodes to air beginning January 2012, will be announced shortly. Check acltv.com for additional episode updates.
In other news released earlier today (November 1, 2012), a live performance by American rock band Grace Potter & the Nocturnals will be broadcast LIVE from Stubb’s BBQ in Austin, Texas on Thursday, November 8, 2012 exclusively on AXS TV. This premier concert event continues the AXS TV commitment to bringing fans the hottest acts, brightest stars and rising artists from all genres LIVE to a national television audience.
This exciting concert broadcast will bring GPN’s electrifying live show to living rooms around the country. Grace Potter and the band, who are currently promoting their critically acclaimed new album The Lion The Beast The Beat on their “Roar Tour,” will perform a thrilling set blending classic hits and new fan favorites.
“There is no better place to bring the AXS TV audience a rockin’ show from Grace Potter & the Nocturnals than Austin, the live music capital of the world,” said Evan Haiman, Vice President of Music Production at AXS TV. “Everyone tuning in from their living room at home will feel like they are in the landmark Stubbs’ audience from opening to encore.”
Tune in and rock out as Grace Potter & the Nocturnals join AXS TV’s continuous lineup of LIVE performances from extraordinary artists including: Alanis Morissette, Sara Evans, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Brandi Carlile, plus all the artists joining us on AXSLive!
Grace Potter will appear on AXSLive as she invites them to join her on the Los Angeles stop of her tour and talks about the upcoming LIVE concert event on AXS TV. AXSLive airs Thursday, November 1 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.
The Grace Potter & the Nocturnals special AXS TV live concert event airs on Thursday, November 8, 2012 starting at 10:15 p.m. Eastern / 7:15 p.m. Pacific.
About AXS TV
Launched in July 2012 under the vision and stewardship of entrepreneur Mark Cuban, AXS TV is the premier destination for live events, breaking news, and as-they-are-happening trends in the worlds of pop culture, music, fashion, and entertainment.
AXS TV Concerts is the premier source on television for 100% live music. From multi-day festivals to stadium tours to club acts, AXS TV delivers an unparalleled shared experience for fans of all genres. Leveraging the network’s vast landscape, artists expand their reach to live behind-the-scenes moments, live fan Q&As, social media engagement and more unique opportunities specifically for the AXS TV audience. With multiple live concerts weekly, AXS TV is the number one destination for artists and their fans to experience and share a pure live event in the world of music and pop culture. Live LIVE!
The largest independently owned and operated network, AXS TV was developed by entrepreneur Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin. The network partners include Mark Cuban, AEG, Ryan Seacrest Media and Creative Artists Agency (CAA). AXS TV is available in the U.S. via AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast/Xfinity, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Suddenlink, Verizon FiOS, and other TV providers.
AXS TV can be found online at www.axs.tv, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/axstv and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/axstv. AXS TV Concerts can be found online at www.axs.tv, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/axstvconcerts and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/axstvconcerts.
Led Zeppelin have released a video of their performance of the epic track "Kashmir" from their forthcoming concert film, Celebration Day.
Filmed during the band's 2007 reunion show at London's O2 Arena, Celebration Day was released in theaters earlier this month and will see a retail release on CD, DVD, digital, vinyl, and Blu-Ray on November 19. Click here to watch the full performance of "Kashmir."
Third Day's new album Miracle won't arrive until next Tuesday (Nov. 6, 2012), but fans will get an early feel for the new disc when the Atlanta rockers perform the lead-off track "Hit Me Like a Bomb" on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno on Friday, Nov. 2. Following the performance of the song, there will be a limited-time free download of the potent rocker on the band's official Web site, www.ThirdDay.com.
The 12-track Miracle was produced by Brendan O'Brien (Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Train, The Killers) and recorded in the band's Atlanta studio called The Quarry.
 |
| The Punch Brothers will perform on 'Austin City Limits' on Nov. 3, 2012. |
The Civil Wars and Punch Brothers will each perform sets on the next episode of the popular show, which will air on PBS stations on Saturday. Here is the release that arrived in my inbox earlier today:
Austin, TX—November 1, 2012—It's a night of great chemistry as Austin City Limits (ACL) presents new American acoustic music in a double-bill with The Civil Wars and Punch Brothers. The brand new episode airs Saturday, November 3rd on PBS (check local listings for times).
The Civil Wars bring their dynamic charisma to the Austin City Limits stage to perform tracks from the Grammy-winning debut Barton Hollow. A folk-pop duo comprised of vocalist Joy Williams and guitarist John Paul White, The Civil Wars made an appearance last year in the ACL Presents special, Americana Music Festival 2011, and ACL has been excited to have them back for a full set ever since. The magnetic pair create Appalachian-tinged folk melodies with a minimalist approach that has caught the folk-pop world by storm. The obvious chemistry between the singer-songwriters is as infectious as their grassroots success – over 250,000 copies of their critically-acclaimed debut album Barton Hollow sold without major industry support. “We are so amped to be here,” says The Civil Wars' Joy Williams from the ACL stage. “I’m still pinching myself that we get to play here tonight.” In addition to their originals, the duo wows the audience with inspired renditions of Michael Jackson's “Billie Jean” and Smashing Pumpkins' “Disarm” in their ACL debut.
Says ACL Executive Producer Terry Lickona, “I was there when Joy and John Paul performed for one minute on this year’s Grammy Awards Show, and that one minute had more impact than almost anything else on the show. That’s just the way they are – their music will grab your ear and your heart in one fell swoop!”
"When you start a band, this is all you really want to be able to do—play Austin City Limits," says Punch Brothers' leader Chris Thile from the ACL stage. Thile should know, the appearance marks his fourth turn on ACL, including two with his long-time band, the progressive bluegrass trio Nickel Creek. In 2006, mandolin virtuoso Thile assembled the all-star quintet Punch Brothers (the name comes from the Mark Twain short story Punch, Brothers, Punch!). The quintet’s boundary-less mix of indie-rock, bluegrass, classical music, jazz, folk, and pop has attracted critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. The Grammy-nominated band performs tracks off their three albums, including 2012's Who’s Feeling Young Now? Paste Magazine calls the album “a masterpiece” and declared “every track is a small wonder of some sort,” while Rolling Stone claims it “strikes a nice balance between old-school and modern.” In October, 31-year Thile was awarded a MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant” for his creative vision.
“I’ve been a fan of Chris’s music since he was a 13-year-old mandolin child prodigy, and it’s been inspiring to watch him take his music to new places only he can imagine,” says Lickona. “He’s got a band of kindred spirits who create music that really defies labels – unless you use all of them!”
The Civil Wars setlist:
From This Valley
My Father's Father
Billie Jean
Poison & Wine
Disarm
Barton Hollow
Punch Brothers setlist:
Movement and Location
Who's Feeling Young Now?
Next to the Trash
Flippen (The Flip)
Don't Get Married Without Me
Rye Whiskey
Season 38 Current Broadcast Schedule (seven additional episodes/artists to be announced)
October 6, 2012
Radiohead
October 13, 2012
Bon Iver
October 20, 2012
Bonnie Raitt with Mavis Staples
October 27, 2012
The Shins
Dr. Dog
November 3, 2012
The Civil Wars
Punch Brothers
November 10, 2012
ACL Presents: Americana Music Festival 2012 (Hosted by Jim Lauderdale and featuring performances by Bonnie Raitt with John Hiatt, Alabama Shakes, Carolina Chocolate Drops, Richard Thompson, The Mavericks and more)
The complete line-up for the full 13-week season, including seven episodes to air beginning January 2012, will be announced shortly. Check acltv.com for additional episode updates.
 |
| Grace Potter & the Nocturnals. |
This exciting concert broadcast will bring GPN’s electrifying live show to living rooms around the country. Grace Potter and the band, who are currently promoting their critically acclaimed new album The Lion The Beast The Beat on their “Roar Tour,” will perform a thrilling set blending classic hits and new fan favorites.
“There is no better place to bring the AXS TV audience a rockin’ show from Grace Potter & the Nocturnals than Austin, the live music capital of the world,” said Evan Haiman, Vice President of Music Production at AXS TV. “Everyone tuning in from their living room at home will feel like they are in the landmark Stubbs’ audience from opening to encore.”
Tune in and rock out as Grace Potter & the Nocturnals join AXS TV’s continuous lineup of LIVE performances from extraordinary artists including: Alanis Morissette, Sara Evans, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Brandi Carlile, plus all the artists joining us on AXSLive!
Grace Potter will appear on AXSLive as she invites them to join her on the Los Angeles stop of her tour and talks about the upcoming LIVE concert event on AXS TV. AXSLive airs Thursday, November 1 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.
The Grace Potter & the Nocturnals special AXS TV live concert event airs on Thursday, November 8, 2012 starting at 10:15 p.m. Eastern / 7:15 p.m. Pacific.
About AXS TV
Launched in July 2012 under the vision and stewardship of entrepreneur Mark Cuban, AXS TV is the premier destination for live events, breaking news, and as-they-are-happening trends in the worlds of pop culture, music, fashion, and entertainment.
AXS TV Concerts is the premier source on television for 100% live music. From multi-day festivals to stadium tours to club acts, AXS TV delivers an unparalleled shared experience for fans of all genres. Leveraging the network’s vast landscape, artists expand their reach to live behind-the-scenes moments, live fan Q&As, social media engagement and more unique opportunities specifically for the AXS TV audience. With multiple live concerts weekly, AXS TV is the number one destination for artists and their fans to experience and share a pure live event in the world of music and pop culture. Live LIVE!
The largest independently owned and operated network, AXS TV was developed by entrepreneur Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin. The network partners include Mark Cuban, AEG, Ryan Seacrest Media and Creative Artists Agency (CAA). AXS TV is available in the U.S. via AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast/Xfinity, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Suddenlink, Verizon FiOS, and other TV providers.
AXS TV can be found online at www.axs.tv, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/axstv and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/axstv. AXS TV Concerts can be found online at www.axs.tv, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/axstvconcerts and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/axstvconcerts.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
The Civil Wars bring harmony to Wiltern
There are countless modern music makers who can rock with force. Indeed, punk, alt rock and metal outfits share that pedal-to-the-metal approach in spades.
Rarer is the contemporary artist who can touch audiences with artful songcraft, stunning harmonies and heartfelt performances.
The Civil Wars - singer-keyboardist Joy Williams and singer-guitarist John Paul White - are that rare young duo able to have somehow found a large audience despite having a musical approach rooted in folk and Americana.
Over the course of 75 wonderful minutes at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles on Saturday (Nov. 19), the Civil Wars performed 17 songs that offered up nearly flawless artistry from two musicians who only began playing together three years ago. In addition to performing more than a dozen original songs, they reworked (and I mean REWORKED) The Smashing Pumpkins' “Disarm” and Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" to add additional power to the night. Impressive.
I would encourage everyone to read writer George Paul's comprehensive review of the show that was posted on the Orange County Register's Soundcheck blog today.
Rarer is the contemporary artist who can touch audiences with artful songcraft, stunning harmonies and heartfelt performances.
The Civil Wars - singer-keyboardist Joy Williams and singer-guitarist John Paul White - are that rare young duo able to have somehow found a large audience despite having a musical approach rooted in folk and Americana.
Over the course of 75 wonderful minutes at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles on Saturday (Nov. 19), the Civil Wars performed 17 songs that offered up nearly flawless artistry from two musicians who only began playing together three years ago. In addition to performing more than a dozen original songs, they reworked (and I mean REWORKED) The Smashing Pumpkins' “Disarm” and Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" to add additional power to the night. Impressive.
I would encourage everyone to read writer George Paul's comprehensive review of the show that was posted on the Orange County Register's Soundcheck blog today.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)