'Play On: A Raspberries Tribute' coming Sept. 12; Rick Springfield, Lou Gramm, John Waite, Marshall Crenshaw & more featured!

A stellar lineup of top-tier musicians are slated to appear on a forthcoming two-disc tribute to Raspberries. The news of the upcoming release of Play On: A Raspberries Tribute comes on a particularly notable day; today (Aug. 11, 2025) would have been Raspberries lead singer/keyboardist/guitarist Eric Carmen's 79th birthday....Robert Kinsler

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – PLAY ON: A RASPBERRIES TRIBUTE

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAMER LOU GRAMM (FOREIGNER), RICK SPRINGFIELD, JOHN WAITE, VICKI & DEBBI PETERSON (BANGLES), MARSHALL CRENSHAW, BIRD STREETS AND THE LEMON TWIGS ARE AMONG THE ARTISTS FEATURED ON “PLAY ON: A RASPBERRIES TRIBUTE.”

"Raspberries is the sound of love at first sight."

Slated for release on September 12^th, 2025, Play On: A Raspberries Tribute (Think Like A Key) is a new tribute album celebrating power pop icons, Raspberries with a blockbuster 37 tracks covering almost the entirety of the group's four-album catalog.

Assembling chart-topping legends (four of whom scored # 1 records), indie favorites, and rising stars, the 2-CD set features Lou Gramm (Foreigner), Rick Springfield, John Waite, Vicki and Debbi Peterson (Bangles), The Lemon Twigs, Marshall Crenshaw, Kasim Sulton and Willie Wilcox (Utopia), Cherie Currie (The Runaways), The Chefs (featuring Stan Lynch from Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and Dan Baird of Georgia Satellites,) The Hudson Brothers, Shoes, and Karla DeVito (Meat Loaf), among those paying homage to the '70s power pop heroes.

Rick Springfield headlining a night of fun-filled melodic rock at
Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, CA on Aug. 2, 2018. 
Photo: Robert Kinsler

"I loved the Raspberries and how they blended pop with the darker Small Faces screaming and always loved Eric's writing, not just the power pop, but the ballads too. His voice could kick ass on both!"–Rick Springfield

The project has received the blessing of the band, with Raspberries founding member Jim Bonfanti providing drums on four tracks

("I Wanna Be With You," "Tonight," "If You Change Your Mind," and "I Don't Know What I Want") and Eric Carmen who contributed the classic count-in on "Tonight."

Ken Sharp and Fernando Perdomo produced the compilation. Housed in a deluxe 6-panel digipak with a 20-page booklet featuring liner notes by renowned music journalist Howie Edelson, offering his spirited take on the band's enduring legacy, Play On: A Raspberries Tribute proves that great pop-rock is truly eternal.

   Strictly limited to 200 copies, the Play On exclusive bundle—available only through the label’s website                                       (tlak.rocks/playon)—includes:

• 2 collectible Raspberries postcards signed by band members Dave Smalley and Scott McCarl
• An exclusive 7" 45 RPM vinyl single with picture sleeve featuring “Go All The Way” by Rick Springfield b/w “Tonight” by Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Lou Gramm (Foreigner)

All profits from the 7” will benefit the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation animal rescue (www.lindablairworldheart.org).

Alongside Badfinger and Big Star, Raspberries are hailed as the architects of power pop. Tallying the smash hits "Go All The Way," "I Wanna Be With You," "Let's Pretend," and "Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)," the group's electrifying sound was a thrilling combination of Beatlesque and Beach Boys melodicism hot-wired to the slashing power chord dynamite of The Who and Small Faces in one incredible package. Unabashed fans of the band include John Lennon, Bruce Springsteen, Paul Stanley (KISS), Tom Petty, Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick), and Axl Rose (Guns N' Roses). Springsteen cited the band as a pivotal inspiration when writing and recording 1980's The River. Decades later, he penned the liner notes for the Raspberries Live On Sunset Strip CD/DVD, sharing his love for the band.

The 2014 film Guardians of the Galaxy spotlighted the band's biggest hit, "Go All The Way," introducing Raspberries to a new generation of music fans. 2025 saw the publication of a new super-sized 820+ page edition of Overnight Sensation: The Story of Raspberries by New York Times best-selling author Ken Sharp. 

Pre-sale: 8/12 (tlak.rocks/playon)

Street date: 9/12

AUDIO TEASER:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2KUH3d_ZIc

TRACKLISTING

DISC ONE

1.  “Go All The Way” - Rick Springfield

2.   “I Wanna Be With You” - Vicki and Debbi Peterson (The Bangles)

3.   “Let’s Pretend” - The Lemon Twigs

4.   “Come Around And See Me” - Katie Ferrara

5.   “Goin’ Nowhere Tonight” - The Caulfields

6.   “Don’t Want To Say Goodbye” - Robin Taylor Zander

7.   “Might As Well” - Jesse Bryson feat. The Kennedys

8.   “It Seemed So Easy” - The Spongetones

9.   "I Saw The Light" - Adelaide Estep

10 “Ecstacy” - Eric Dover (Jellyfish/Imperial Drag) feat. Eric Singer of KISS on drums

11 “On The Beach” - Darian Sahanaja (Brian Wilson band)

12 “If You Change Your Mind” - Ken Sharp

13 “Nobody Knows” - Chris Price

14 “I Reach For The Light” - Bird Streets

15 “Drivin’ Around” – Popdudes

16 “Hard To Get Over A Heartbreak” - P-Hux

17 “Waiting” - Olivia Rubini

18 “I Can Remember” - Karla DeVito (Meatloaf)

DISC TWO

1.   “Tonight” - Lou Gramm (Foreigner)

2.   “Play On” - The Lemon Twigs

3.   “I Don’t Know What I Want” - John Waite

4.   “Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)” – Shoes

5.   “All Through The Night” - The Hudson Brothers

6.   “Should I Wait” - Marshall Crenshaw

7.   “Cry” - Kasim Sulton (Utopia)

8.   “Making It Easy” – Brasko

9.   “Last Dance” - Evan Stanley

10 “I Can Hardly Believe You’re Mine” - John Powhida

11 “Rose Colored Glasses” - Rob Bonfiglio (Brian Wilson band)

12  “I’m A Rocker” - Ken Sharp (feat. Wally Stocker of The Babys)

13  “Party’s Over” - The Chefs (feat. Stan Lynch from Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and Dan Baird of Georgia Satellites)

14  “Cruisin’ Music” - Ronnie D’Addario

15  “Starting Over” - Tori Holub

16  “Hands On You” - Cherie Currie (The Runaways)

17  “Every Way I Can” - The Toms

18  “With You In My Life” - Willie Wilcox (Utopia)

19  “Please Let Me Come Back Home" - Bambi Kino (feat. members of Nada Surf and Guided by Voices)

Ken Sharp's 'Overnight Sensation: The Story of Raspberries' returns via expanded edition

Fans of power pop band Raspberries are in luck!

Celebrated author Ken Sharp has completed a new super-sized edition of his long-out-of-print book Overnight Sensation: The Story of Raspberries. Sold out for more than 30 years, the expanded 2025 hardcover edition of Overnight Sensation is 820 pages (the original edition was 350 pages) and features a brand new front/back cover, reimagined interior book design and a wealth of essential new content.

Formed in 1970 in Cleveland, Ohio, the Raspberries released four albums between early 1972 and late 1974 that saw the groundbreaking quartet create and champion the so called "power pop" sound via strong songcraft, memorable melodies and sumptuous vocal harmonies. The group's classic lineup included Eric Carmen (vocals, guitars, bass, piano), Wally Bryson (guitars), Dave Smalley (guitars, bass) and Jim Bonfanti (drums). Although the band disbanded in 1975, the original lineup reunited three decades later and completed a well-received reunion tour in 2005. 

Highlights of Overnight Sensation: The Story of Raspberries includes:

• New and expanded interviews with members of Raspberries, producer Jimmy lenner (who produced all of the band's 1970s studio albums) and many others
• A plethora of rare photographs (many previously unseen), handwritten lyrics, archival articles./concert reviews, memorabilia, a massive updated discography and much more
• Essays and remembrances by musical colleagues, road crew, friends, family and band insiders
• In-depth coverage/interviews with pre-Raspberries bands (The Choir, Cyrus Erie, The Quick)
• Extensive post-Raspberries coverage of band member projects
• Expanded section on the Raspberries reunion

Raspberries in 1972.

Over the years, used copies of Overnight Sensation: The Story of Raspberries have sold for ridiculous amounts on the collector's market; a copy on Amazon now lists for $4,401! 

Now fans can get a new copy of the essential book for $75; each copy will include a special bonus of a Raspberries bookmark. 

For information how to get a copy of this special book, email sharpk@aol.com.

Robert Kinsler

New music: 'Shine On: A Tribute to Pete Ham,' Melanie, Victoria Hallman

A marvelous new tribute to Badfinger singer-songwriter Peter Ham, as well as the release of long lost recordings featuring Melanie and Victoria Hallman are available now.

Artists: Dan Baird, Sweet Lizzy Project, Shelby Lynne, Dennis Diken, Ken Sharp, more

Title: Shine On: A Tribute to Pete Ham (Y&T Music)

You might like if you enjoy: Badfinger, Matthew Sweet, Shelby Lynne, The Beatles, power pop, The Georgia Satellites

Tell me more: Badfinger lead singer/multi-instrumentalist Pete Ham was among the great rising stars of the early 1970s. Indeed, the man born Peter William Ham's parade of enduring hit originals include "No Matter What," "Day After Day" and "Baby Blue"; he also co-wrote the ballad "Without You," a hit for Harry Nilsson. Sadly, Ham died by suicide on April 24, 1975 at the age of 27 in the wake of band- and record label-related issues including financial woes. Now the Welsh artist is the focus of an ambitious and well-deserved tribute album released by Y&T Music titled Shine On: A Tribute to Pete Ham. Featuring 35 new recordings of songs written or co-written by Ham, proceeds from the project will go to Mental Health America of Southeast Florida. The charitable aim of the project is enhanced by the strength of the diverse field of artists who revisit Ham classics on the two-disc Shine On. The jangly opener "No More" features the strengths of singer Mary Lee Kortes and guitar ace Eric Ambel. Ex-Georgia Satellites lead singer Dan Baird offers up a truly rollicking take on "I Can't Take It." Andrew Hyra revisits "Shine On" via a poignant Americana-flavored reading adorned by nice harmony vocals and the slide guitar work of John Keane. Rising Cuban rockers Sweet Lizzy Project perform a stirring cover of "Perfection." Shelby Lynne's original interpretation of "Day After Day" is as dramatic as it is beautiful. Mary Lou Lord's emotive vocals capture the romantic loss at the center of the melodically sumptuous "Baby Blue." Dennis Diken (of Smithereens fame) covers the wistful Baroque pop track "Dennis." Legendary singer Melanie is featured on a sorrowful "Without You." Power pop hero Ken Sharp conjures up the spirit of Badfinger via his outstanding take on "Just A Chance." Indeed, there are so many strong versions of Ham's sterling songs showcased across this essential collection. Information: ytmusiconline.com.

Artist: Melanie

Title: The Magic Bus (Y&T Music)

You might like if you enjoy: Melanie, Joan Baez, late '60s and early '70s folk

Tell me more: The last several years have seen a number of rediscovered lost and rare recordings from legendary artist reissued for today's discerning listeners. Add to that list The Magic Bus, a live radio show captured in April 1971 featuring acclaimed singer-songwriter Melanie. The audio CD release features the complete radio program showcasing the acclaimed New York songstress interviewed by the late Curtis Schwartz at WBUS in Miami, Florida; the restored and remastered program also features Melanie's performance of 10 songs during her appearance. Accompanied by her own acoustic guitar, Melanie performs moving versions of the lovely "Poet," tender "Six String," driving "Center of the Circle," bluesy "Some Say I Got Devil" and other favorites. Information: ytmusiconline.com.

Artist: Victoria Hallman

Title: From Birmingham to Bakersfield (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Buck Owens, Susan Raye, Juice Newton

Tell me more: Omnivore Recordings continues its ongoing campaign of restoring and reissuing true sonic treasures. Singer Victoria Hallman is featured on From Birmingham to Bakersfield, a lost Buck Owens-produced album from 1982 featuring the promising singer who began her singing career at age four and was featured as a part of Owens' celebrated touring band. The never-released album will appeal to fans of '70s and '80s country music with Hallman's soprano a perfect fit with the infectious country-pop material featured across the disc. The track listing is mostly uptempo and buoyant, with "You're My Favorite Song," "Bottle Up My Tears," "Please Please Me" and "24 Hour Woman" among the shining tracks on the collection. Bonus tracks include several demos from 1980 (including an infectious version of Merle Haggard's "Mama Tried"). Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler

New Music: Neil Young + Promise Of The Real, Lotus, Ken Sharp

Neil Young + Promise Of The Real, Lotus and Ken Sharp are back with new must-hear releases.

Artist: Neil Young + Promise Of The Real

Title: Noise & Flowers (Reprise)

You might like if you enjoy: Lukas Nelson, Promise Of The Real, Neil Young & Crazy Horse

Tell me more: Few rock artists are as prolific, gifted and eclectic as Neil Young. Listening to his recent release Noise & Flowers available on audio CD (the edition reviewed in this column) and via a deluxe edition that includes an LP, audio CD and Blu-ray featuring a concert film, it is amazing how the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer can sing the most intimate of quiet acoustic songs and then suddenly launch into thunderous rockers. The tracks on Noise & Flowers were captured on Neil Young + Promise Of The Real's 2019 European nine-date tour that began just two weeks after Young's lifetime friend and manager Elliot Roberts passed away. “Playing in his memory [made it] one of the most special tours ever,” Young says in the album’s liner notes. “We hit the road and took his great spirit with us into every song. This music belongs to no one. It’s in the air. Every note was played for music’s great friend, Elliot.” This collection offers raw and decidedly emotional takes on a far-flung range of Young gems. The classic "Mr. Soul" and "Alabama," explosive rocker "Throw Your Hatred Down," timely "Rockin' in the Free World," enduring "Helpless," rarely-heard '70s cut "Field of Opportunity," and gentle "From Hank to Hendrix" are among the songs that shine on the title. Information: NeilYoungArchives.com. 

Artist: Lotus

Title: Bloom and Recede (Frontiers Music Srl)

You might like if you enjoy: Moby, Tycho

Tell me more: The best electronica artists stretch their work beyond robotic beats and paint-by-numbers synth sounds to infuse their original music with emotion and experimental-focused creativity. Such is the case with Denver-spawned Lotus' new full-length album Bloom and Recede (out on Aug. 26, 2022). The nine tracks — crafted by talented brothers Luke and Jesse Miller — are enticing while challenging and rewarding the listener. The hypnotic opener "Desert Blooms" Latin-tinged celebration "Pluck," lush "Pacific Glow" (watch the official video for "Pacific Glow" HERE), immersive "Time Dilates" and cinematic "Desert Recedes." The diverse field of instrumentals also benefit from some stellar guitar work that pumps up the electronic-anchored soundscape. Lotus will be appearing at a number of upcoming festivals, including the Summerdance festival over Labor Day Weekend in Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville, OH. Information: LotusVibes.com. 

Artist: Ken Sharp

Title: I'll Remember The Laughter (AFM Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Fountains of Wayne, Rick Springfield, The Zombies' "Odyssey and Oracle" 

Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Ken Sharp's marathon-length 7th album I'll Remember the Laughter features 50 songs; even better not a moment on the album is wasted. "Like most people, the pandemic turned my world upside down, but in that isolation, I was deeply inspired and found solace in creativity, writing/recording my music, and this robust productivity spurred the creation of some of my best music," Sharp noted of the new project. Indeed, the range of material extends from the tuneful opener "Maybe Next Summer" (Sharp is featured on lead and background vocals, piano, organ, Moog, tremelo guitar, mellotron vibes, sleigh bells, percussion on the track!) and Baroque pop swirl “Say Goodbye To One Of The Good Ones” to the driving indie rocker "There Goes My Sanity," the power pop sortie "Lady Godiva," tuneful garage rocker "It Pays To Be A Rock & Roll Star" and Philadelphia soul-steeped "Philly Get Back." Adding to the magic are the contributions of Rick Springfield, who adds vocal firepower on "Comic Book Heroes" and "I'm Your Superman." Other interesting tracks on I'll Remember the Laughter include Sharp's original psychedelic-flavored “I Am You, You Are Me,” a shimmering take on The Who's "The Kids Are Alright," Beatlesque version of Gene Simmons' "Mr. Make Believe" and lovely reading of Davy Jones' "Girl" — the latter featuring Roger Manning of Jellyfish fame on piano. Information: ken-sharp.com. 

Robert Kinsler

New Music: Greta Van Fleet, Cheap Trick, Ken Sharp, Jon Klages, Jarrod Lawson

Fans of modern and classic rock, power pop, jazz, Americana and blues all have reason to celebrate thanks to a particularly strong field of new releases.

Artist: Greta Van Fleet

Title: The Battle at Garden's Gate (Republic)

You might like if you enjoy: Greta Van Fleet, Led Zeppelin, Bad Company

Tell me more: There is a common oft-repeated perception that rock music is dead. Don't tell that to rising young rock quartet Greta Van Fleet, whose epic full-length sophomore album The Battle at Garden's Gate will be released on Friday, April 16. The Frankenmuth, Michigan-spawned outfit follows up their outstanding 2018 full-length debut Anthem of the Peaceful Army with a 12-track Greg Kurstin-produced album that is decidedly ambitious and filled with songs that simultaneously challenge and entice the listener. The evocative seven-minute "Age of Machine," luxurious "Broken Bells" (which spans from ballad to soaring anthem over its daring run) and absorbing "Heat Above" tap into everything that lovers of classic '70s rock love so much; dynamic performances featuring a mighty lead singer (Josh Kiszka's voice is a wonder), killer solos that masterfully propel each song's arc (lead guitarist Jake Kiszka delivers), and a strong rhythm section (bassist Sam Kiszka and drummer Danny Wagner). Every track is crucial; other exceptional originals include the dazzling "Built By Nations," acoustic-flavored "Tears By Rain" and electrifying "The Barbarians." Information: GretaVanFleet.com. 

Artist: Cheap Trick

Title: In Another World (Universal Music Enterprises)

You might like if you enjoy: Cheap Trick, Matthew Sweet, The Smithereens

Tell me more: Enduring rock outfit Cheap Trick is back with In Another World, the quartet's first new album since 2017's Christmas Christmas holiday celebration. No band has ever fused power pop with hard rock as powerfully as the Rockford, Illinois-spawned Rock and Roll Hall of Famers and that is very much in evidence across their latest LP. Singer Robin Zander's signature vocals are as sharp as ever; just listen to the driving rocker "Boys & Girls & Rock N Roll" (bolstered by Rick Nielsen's fiery guitar work) and even heavier "Light Up The Fire" (which recalls the AC/DC meets Beatles approach of the Smithereens' best material). The parade of tracks is charged from start to finish; the shimmering harmonies-filled opener "The Summer Looks Good On You," tuneful "Quit Waking Me Up," Beatlesque "Passing Through" and inspired take on John Lennon's "Gimme Some Truth" are among my other faves. Originally set to be released in late 2018, In Another World was delayed by the arrival of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Nice to be able to crank this one up now. Information: CheapTrick.com.

Artist: Ken Sharp

Title: Miniatures (Ken Sharp)

You might like if you enjoy: Paul McCartney, Badfinger, Pugwash

Tell me more: Singer-songwriter Ken Sharp uses Miniatures to convincingly prove that less can certainly be more. The songs on his new LP are short and sweet to be sure; all clock in at under two minutes. With an impressive 32 tracks on Miniatures, there are tune-filled joys aplenty. The chamber pop confessional "Me and My Big Fat Mouth," McCartneyesque "Susannah Silently Shining" and "Rise," up-tempo folk rocker "Day In Night," jazzy "A Kind of Blue and Smokey Too," nostalgic "Stack O' Records" and shining "My Lullaby" are early nuggets. The wealth of riches continues with the romantic "If I Called You," the confessional "Growing Up So Fast," dreamy "Perfect Sun," biting "Down The Drain," infectious power-pop confection "Somethings Happening" and the poignant "Jeanne I Will Remember." The disc closes with the stellar Baroque-styled title track, enhanced by exquisite toy piano magic. Information: ken-sharp.com.

Artist: Jon Klages

Title: Fabulous Twilight (Danbury Fair Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Raul Midón, Dire Straits, Jon Klages

Tell me more: The leap from rock to a decidedly more diverse soundscape is not an easy one, but but that hasn't deterred indie rock hero Jon Klages (The Individuals, Richard Lloyd Band) whose wonderful Fabulous Twilight is an inviting and polished collection of 11 new originals. Chief among the jazzy gems here are the breezy opener "Best That We Can," lovely "Rosalie," playful "Long-Tailed Cat," and wistful "1133 Ave. of the Americas (For Enoch Light)." Klages also delves into an array of other styles via the cool '60s-flavored instrumental "Too Cool for Spy School," the sparse blues of "Red-Dirt Country," funk-tinged "Kazoos Are People Too" and country tale of musical discovery titled "God Bless the Columbia House Record Club." Klages' smooth vocals and skilled fret work take center stage (just listen to the blazing "Remains"), with keyboardist Neil Larsen, bassist Davey Faragher, drummer Pete Thomas, backing vocalist Arnold McCuller and the Honey Whiskey Trio fortifying the album's impact. A portion of the proceeds of the album will benefit the Wild Honey Foundation's ongoing quest to aid for advancement in autism research. Information: JonKlages.com.

Artist: Jarrod Lawson

Title: Be the Change (Dome Records Ltd)

You might like if you enjoy: Gavin DeGraw, Donny Hathaway

Tell me more: With a rich soulful voice set amidst a rich palette of jazz, R&B, gospel, funk and other styles, Jarrod Lawson's "Be the Change" is a nice invitation to an immersive blend of musical riches. A top-flight singer and keyboardist, Lawson showcases his vocal talents on the grooving funk track "Battlefield," lush ballad "Love Isn't Always Enough," scintillating "Universal Chord," tender ballad "Evalee," smooth jazz swoop "Connected," soulful celebration of song "Soul Symphony" and bewitching "How Long." He is joined by guest vocalist Moonchild on the captivating duet "I'll Be Your Radio." Information: JarrodLawsonMusic.com. 

Robert Kinsler

Robert Kinsler's Favorite New Albums of 2018

As many of you know, I have long given up trying to rank my favorite albums of the year; I prefer to list my favorite titles alphabetically by artist and don't necessarily restrict myself to a "Top 10" if there is a greater number deserving of the attention. This list features my favorite 18 studio album releases of 2018. Click here to see a list of my favorite deluxe reissues/special editions/live releases of 2018...

Artist: Bird Streets
Title: Bird Streets (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist wonders John Brodeur and Jason Falkner have joined forces as Bird Streets. Just listening to the pair's eponymous 11-track disc is to be awed by the power of song craft, virtuoso musicianship and creative give and take. The shimmering "Betting On The Sun" impresses with a fusion of strong melody, probing lyrics and a soundscape that thrives on vocal layers, immersive guitars and a unifying rhythm. The ambitious "Stop To Breathe" builds to a swirling climax, with multiple guitar lines that thrill even in the fade out. The tuneful Americana-tinged power pop "Same Dream" is a driving nugget, avoiding cliche while soaring to tuneful heights. On the beautiful "Spaceship" Brodeur's affecting vocals explore life's disappointments with artful candor. Bird Street was produced by Falkner, and features 11 tracks written and performed by Brodeur (in conjunction with Falkner); the disc also features guest appearances by Miranda Lee Richards and Luther Russell (The Freewheelers, Those Pretty Wrongs). Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Rosanne Cash
Title: She Remembers Everything (Blue Note)
Tell me more: Songstress Rosanne Cash released the deeply-affecting She Remembers Everything on Nov. 2. The album – the artist's first new LP in nearly five years – allows one of today's most gifted female singer-songwriters to probe the continuing challenges women have in the 21st century. Indeed, Cash's 10-track disc is a powerful and revealing exploration of the experience of women highlighted in a number of roles vividly described in songs that are both lyrically literate and musically beautiful. As if Cash's talents and insight weren't formidable enough, she is joined by the illustrious likes of Kris Kristofferson and Elvis Presley (the two share lead vocals with Cash on the wonderful "Gods of Harlem"), Colin Meloy (of the Decemberists) and Sam Phillips on the brilliant album. Information: RoseanneCash.com.

Artist: Elvis Costello & The Imposters
Title: "Look Now" / Deluxe Edition (Concord Records)
Tell me more: Who knew Elvis Costello & The Imposters would be back and release one of the best albums of 2018? The proof comes via the glorious Look Now, Costello's first new album in five years (Wise Up Ghost, a collaboration with the Roots, was released in September 2013). Look Now most closely recalls Costello's 1982 Geoff Emerick-produced gem Imperial Bedroom and his masterful baroque pop collaboration with Burt Bacharach, 1998's Painted from Memory. Indeed, Bacharach has co-written and added his piano talents on several tracks on "Look Now," including the stirring title track and the poignant "Photographs Can Lie" (the latter featuring some of Costello's most affecting vocals in memory); elsewhere there are echoes of Memphis soul (the rousing "Burnt Sugar is So Bitter," a song he co-wrote with Carole King back in the '90s), Springsteen "Burn to Run"-era rock ("Unwanted Number") and even Philadelphia soul ("Suspect My Tears"). "Look Now" is co-produced by Costello and five-time Grammy winner Sebastian Krys. The stellar collection also proves to be an outstanding celebration of The Imposters (Steve Nieve, drummer Pete Thomas and bassist Davey Faragher). The Deluxe Edition of Look Now expands the standard LP with four additional gems including the lovely "Isabelle in Tears," French language "Adieu Paris (L'Envie Des Etoiles)" and tender "Final Mrs. Curtain." If you have not picked up "Look Now" yet, get the Deluxe Edition. Information: ElvisCostello.com.

Artist: The Fallen Stars
Title: Leaves on the Wind — Vol. 3: Can't Take The Sky From Me (Kiss My Squirrel Music)
Tell me more: When Firefly first aired on the Fox network in September 2002, it immediately captured the attention of discerning fans (now known as "Browncoats") of science fiction with its unique cast of authentic characters, blend of outer space and Western landscapes, and sharp storytelling. Although the Joss Whedon-created series was cancelled after a mere 14 episodes, the influence of the series was profound (indeed the film "Serenity" was released in 2005 to critical acclaim). Look no further than the Fallen Stars' compelling trilogy titled Leaves on the Wind, with Vol. 3: Can't Take The Sky From Me having been released in 2018. On volume 3 of Leaves on the Wind, musical duo Bobbo and Tracy Byrnes have crafted songs inspired by the final four episodes of "Firefly," as well as offering up their emotive take on Whedon's theme song for the series ("The Ballad of Serenity"). Fans of the first two "Leaves on the Wind" titles will pleased that "Can't Take The Sky From Me" is the equal with its Americana-styled songs capturing the magic of the series in song. The countrified rocker "Naked" serves as a duet for Tracy and Bobbo, whose voices shine alone or together in the spirited choruses. "Carry Me" is especially poignant, with an acoustic flavor and sweet melody that plays out in the verses and choruses. The rollicking "Home" and yearning "Here I Am" also capture the creative power of the groundbreaking sci-fi series. Information: thefallenstars.com.

Artist: First Aid Kit
Title: Ruins (Columbia)
Tell me more: The world's most amazing young Americana group is actually a duo from Sweden. Comprised of sisters Klara and Johanna Söderberg, First Aid Kit released one of the first epic albums of 2018, the masterful Ruins. The siblings each have exceptional voices that soar alone but when blended together the results are never less than otherworldly. Take the first song "Rebel Heart," – locked together across the intoxicating verses and choruses there is one section leading to a break where timbre of their voices mirror each other via an extended note that is simply dazzling. On the introspective "It's A Shame," their sopranos cascade amidst a sonic backdrop of electric guitar (courtesy of R.E.M.'s Peter Buck), pedal steel, percussion and a sublime mix of piano and organ - the song's nuanced finale has their voices dropping low against light acoustic guitar. Other songs that impress powerfully include the melancholy-laced "Fireworks," countrified "Postcard" and yearning "Distant Star." The lyrics across the disc are gloriously literate as well, solidifying the substantial might of this 10-song release. Information: www.FirstAidKitBand.com.

Artist: Gorillaz
Title: The Now Now (Warner Bros./Parlophone)
Tell me more: On the brilliant 2018 Gorillaz release The Now Now, singer-songwriter Damon Albarn has essentially followed up his 2014 release Everyday Robots with a sequel of sorts; the disc is intoxicating musically even while offering a lyrically-impactful search for finding one's self in a world - America in particular — where people seem to be more alone than ever. Whereas 2017's Gorillaz return Humanz was packed with all-star guests ranging from Mavis Staples and Grace Jones to Popcaan across the track listing, The Now Now is a decidedly more intimate and stronger affair. A soundscape paved with cool beats, retro synths and grooves surrounding Albarn's signature vocals, the 11-track disc includes the breezy "Humility" (featuring jazz guitarist George Benson's shining fretwork), the '80s-mining "Tranz," infectious "Lake Zurich," distant "Magic City" (complete with Blur guitarist Graham Coxon's flourishes) and the enthralling "One Percent." Information: gorillaz.com.

Artist: The Jayhawks
Title: Back Roads and Abandoned Motels (Legacy Recordings)
Tell me more: Fresh off their role backing legendary Ray Davies on his Our Country: Americana Act II, the Jayhawks have released their own brilliant masterwork titled Back Roads and Abandoned Motels. Anyone who has admired any of the Twin Cities-spawned troupe's previous albums issued across the past three decades will want to get a listen of this outstanding LP. The album opens with the Memphis-styled soul of "Come Cryin' to Me," featuring the shining vocals of band keyboardist Karen Grotberg (whose voice draws strong comparisons with Roseanne Cash). That song was co-penned by Jayhawks frontman Gary Louris and members of the Dixie Chicks and was first featured on Natalie Maines' 2013 release Mother — this version outdistances that recording in spades. The rest of the album is just strong, with band drummer Tim O'Reagan singing several tracks (including the acoustic-flavored "Long Time Ago") and Louris offering up his signature vocals across most of the disc. Outstanding song craft, lush vocal harmonies and creative arrangements are everywhere. The instantly-infectious alt-country rocker "Everybody Knows," melodic "Backwards Women," romantic "Need You Tonight" and acoustic nugget "Bird Never Flies" are among this writer's favorite songs on Back Roads and Abandoned Motels. As if the album wasn't impressive enough, all 11 tracks were recorded in just two sessions. Amazing. Information: jayhawksofficial.com.

Artist: Paul Kelly
Title: Nature (Cooking Vinyl)
Tell me more: Paul Kelly's new LP combines poetry from five literary masters (Dylan Thomas, Walt Whitman, Sylvia Plath, Gerard Manley Hopkins and Phillip Larkin) as well as his own prose with a shared theme reflecting the disc's title Nature. The songcraft is as glorious as the verse with a diverse soundscape encompassing folk rock (the propulsive "With the One I Love"), Celtic-tinged folk ("And Death Shall Have No Dominion," "A Bastard Like Me"), baroque pop ("The River Song") and Americana ("Little Wolf," "Morning Storm," "The Trees"). The lush neo-classical "Bound to Follow (Aisling Song)" features soprano Kate Miller-Heidke and further captures the exhilarating spirit of this special project that simultaneously and magically celebrates the power of poetry, song and the natural world. Information: PaulKelly.com.au.

Artist: Johnny Marr
Title: Call the Comet (New Voodoo Records)
Tell me more: Since the breakup of The Smiths in 1987 guitarist Johnny Marr has carved out a wide-ranging path performing with everyone from The The and the Pretenders to Modest Mouse, Talking Heads and even famed composer Hans Zimmer! But the most astounding ripple in Marr's incredible journey has been a solo career launched with 2013's The Messenger. That album, as well as 2014's Playland and 2015's live import Adrenalin Baby, have rapidly established Marr as one of this decade's most exciting rock artists. On June 15, 2018, Marr released his third studio album Call the Comet, and the 12-song set offers definitive proof that while Marr's signature guitar work put him on the map his elevated songcraft and top-tier vocals guarantee listeners will be swept away and immersed across "Call the Comet." The disc's track listing shines from start to finish, with the spacious "Rise," evocative "Hi Hello," hypnotic "A Different Gun" and breathtaking "Walk Into the Sea" among the awe-inspiring songs. Information: JohnnyMarr.com.

Artist: The Monkees
Title: Christmas Party (Rhino Records)
Tell me more: Capturing the magic of the Monkees' most beloved recordings of the 1960s and fusing that with the energy of contemporary power pop, Christmas Party features a mix of classic seasonal favorites, artful remakes and newly-penned songs that make for one of the most inviting sets of the season. Gems fill this sparkling collection; the Andy Partridge-penned "Unwrap You At Christmas" is bolstered by a sweet string section and soaring vocals from Micky Dolenz. Michael Nesmith's affecting vocals add just the right moodscape to a wistful cover of Mel Torme's "The Christmas Song." A shimmering cover of the Alex Chilton-penned Big Star classic "Jesus Christ" and lush version of Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime" are reworked enough to make them essential. Several of the late Davy Jones' vocal tracks are used on the disc, including a lovely "Silver Bells." Peter Tork uses his rich baritone and skills on the banjo in a poignant Americana-styled version of "Angels We Have Heard On High." Among this writer's favorite tracks are the instantly-infectious "What Would Santa Do," a melodic rocker written by Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo that takes a playful swipe at those who can't get into the Christmas spirit; "House of Broken Gingerbread" is another killer new cut (this one penned by album producer Adam Schlesinger and Michael Chabon), a potent and tuneful modern rocker. Information: monkees.com.

Artist: Old 97's
Title: Love The Holidays (ATO Records)
Tell me more: The members of Old 97's truly do "love the holidays" and created the wildly spirited Christmas album in 2018 to prove it. The majority of songs on the 14-track Love The Holidays are original and fully capture the freewheeling spirit of the Texas-spawned band. The rollicking title track "Love The Holidays," '60s-flavored "I Believe in Santa Claus," cowpunk-tinged alt rocker "Gotta Love Being A Kid" and beautiful countrified folk nugget "Snow Angels" are early standouts on the disc. The world's most famous reindeer gets a new musical chapter courtesy of the colorful "Rudolph Was Blue." The reworked versions of traditional material such as "Auld Lang Syne," "Angels We Have Heard On High," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "Up On The Housetop" are equally marvelous, with the quartet using their best instincts to capture the spirit of the originals without abandoning their raw and decidedly raucous approach. Information: old97s.com. 

Artist: Phosphorescent
Title: C'est La Vie (Dead Oceans)
Tell me more: Since discovering Phosphorescent at the Stagecoach Festival in 2011, I've been a fan of the genre-blending troupe headed by singer-songwriter Matthew Houck. Now after an extended wait of more than five years (the group's previous album Muchacho was released in March 2013), Phosphorescent is back with their seventh studio album, C'est La Vie. The good news is the long wait was worth it; Phosphorescent's unique approach of crafting luxurious songs that occupy a dreamlike soundscape is fully intact. There are the wistful quiet nuggets ("Christmas Down Under," "These Rocks"), a driving Americana-tinged indie rocker ("Around the Horn") and even a meditative synth pop foray (the title track "C'est La Vie"). Information: PhosphorescentMusic.com.

Artist: Ken Sharp
Title: Beauty in the Backseat
Tell me more: Ken Sharp's fifth LP Beauty in the Backseat mixes up things in all the right ways, unabashed in terms of being forcefully melodic while fused with a heavy dose of Philly soul. Lead-off track "Rock Show" is a splendid mix of soulful gospels, power pop tunefulness, fuzzy guitar textures adorned with a great solo from KISS guitarist Ace Frehley. The driving melodic rocker "Mona Lisa Smile" is pure ear candy. Other sonic delights include the intoxicating "No One Seems to Stay Together Anymore," lovely "Closer" and racing "24 Hours a Day." Sharp is joined by another one of his heroes when Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Oates guests on "Philly Kind of Night." Sharp also pays tribute to several other musical heroes courtesy of the ambitious baroque pop "The Day That David Bowie" died and joyful "I Wanna Be David Cassidy." Information: Ken-Sharp.com.

Artist: Michael Simmons
Title: First Days of Summer (Crab Apple Records)
Tell me more: The Michael Simmons album First Days of Summer captures the spirit of summertime even while creating a sweeping soundscape that means this album will sound great anytime. The lyrics are sharp while the musical chops enhance the enticing melodies; there is just a great positive vibe and freewheeling spirit across the dozen-track run. Simmons' wide-ranging explorations yield a strong crop of great originals and no two sound alike. The soulful "Do Your Best to Care" and explosive "Get Back What You Put In" kick off the full-length album. "No More Girls" is an intoxicating romp that could have been recorded by hitmakers in the '60s; the crunchy pop of "Let's Fall In Love" is one of my favorites on the disc with its mix of Matthew Sweet melodic rock and smart Ric Ocasek styling. "Rudderless Day" is a similarly winning rocker. The lush title track somehow revisits classic Beach Boys territory while sounding completely original. The wonderful baroque-meets-psychedelic "Centre of the Spiral" is a tender and mature look inside a relationship as the best moments of a couple's journey together have passed. Simmons handles most lead vocals and the majority of musical duties on the album with a masterful touch; a few notable guests crop up here and there (including guitarist Robbie Rist, cellist Matthew Carney and lead guitarist Addison Love). Not only are all the songs outstanding and produced perfectly, but the release comes in several wonderful configurations. Information: https://michaelsimmons.bandcamp.com.

Artist: Simple Minds
Title: War Between Worlds (BMG)
Tell me more: Simple Minds returned with yet another masterwork. The Scottish outfit's 2018 album War Between Worlds is bolstered by an amazing collection of songs that are both artful and intoxicating; listeners who connected with 2014's thrilling Big Music will definitely want to pick up War Between Worlds. The material here blends ethereal synthesizers, infectious rhythms, blazing and soaring guitar work (just listen to the fiery "Barrowland Star") and Jim Kerr's signature vocals. Standouts on the disc abound; the electronica-tinged "Magic" and "The Signal and the Noise," driving "Summer" and dreamy "Utopia" showcase a 40-year-old group still focused on the future. Produced by Simple Minds with Andy Wright and Gavin Goldberg, the album is available on standard and deluxe audio CD, standard, deluxe and picture disc vinyl, and digitally, The deluxe edition features three additional tracks, including the sweeping "Silent Kiss" and a reworked cover of the traditional Irish song "Dirty Old Town" featuring Kerr sharing vocals with Sarah Brown. Information: SimpleMinds.com.

Artist: The Good, The Bad & The Queen
Title: Merrie Land (Studio 13)
Tell me more: The second release from The Good, The Bad & The Queen (featuring Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn and Clash bassist Paul Simonon) is titled Merrie Land and the recently-issued title also happens to be one of the best new albums of 2018. A deluxe edition of Merrie Land comes as a sensational package featuring a 56-page hardback book with the album on audio CD; the book itself features sheet music, lyrics and cool artwork. While the deluxe edition is wonderful, casual fans can also pick up the album-only release as a single audio CD disc or digital download. Information: TheGoodTheBadAndTheQueen.com.

Artist: Michael Ubaldini
Title: Song Of Our Time (Blackwater Records)
Tell me more: Michael Ubaldini released yet another brilliant full-length album in 2018; the aptly-titled Song Of Our Time features a dozen cuts finely crafted with nothing more than the artist's signature vocals, acoustic guitar and occasional harmonica. The tracks offer probing and penetrating observations of life in a fast-moving world caught in a state of seemingly-endless turmoil. Ubaldini's sound recalls the acoustic approach of legacy masters Bob Dylan and Neil Young but the Southern California troubadour has a strong voice of his own. The title track reflects the timbre of the age with Ubaldini looking around at a world filled with troubles and admitting "There's nothing I can do, but sing a song for you." Make no mistake that while the artist offers an honest assessment of our world there is a hopeful and uplifting resonance in his songcraft that provides comfort and optimism. Ubaldini's musical pen is wide and aside from the sharp political observations (just listen to "A Clean Mind," "Free Speech Blues" and "Teardrops") and personal defeat ("Walkin' Cane Blues") there are songs of love (the Celtic-flavored "Maddie O' Day") and loss ("When The Chips Were Down," "Gambled Away My Woman"). Song Of Our Time delivers on its stark title more fully with every listen. Information: rocknrollpoet.com.

Artist: Danny Wilkerson
Title: Wilkerson (SpyderPop Records)
Tell me more: Listeners hungry for new music that is melodic, intelligent and ambitious almost beyond measure will be floored by Wilkerson, the brilliant debut from singer-songwriter Danny Wilkerson. The sonic ghosts of the Beatles, the Zombies, Jeff Lynne and XTC can be heard but to be sure the songs here are original and performances uniformly inspired. With songs this exceptional it doesn't hurt that Wilkerson is joined by an all-star cast of supporting players including Roger Joseph Manning Jr. (of Jellyfish, Imperial Drag and Beck fame) on keyboards and backing vocals, guitarist Pat Buchanan (Hall & Oates, Cyndi Lauper, Don Henley), multi-instrumentalist Joe Siders (The New Pornographers) and many others. If Jellyfish had teamed with Burt Bacharach it might sound something like the infectious opener "Everybody Loves to Love." The propulsive "Enough For Somebody" is buoyant and exuberant, perfectly capturing the joy of youthful love. Backed only by a string section, Wilkerson's inviting vocals shine on the probing "Endless Haze"; the Beatlesque "When Your Number's Up" puts his masterful talents as songwriter on display. The shimmering "How She Lost My Heart," lofty "Carry The One" and baroque pop "Let It Go Tonight" are late disc standouts. Produced and engineered by bleu, and mastered by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios in London, Wilkerson is an amazing debut. Information: spyderpop.com.



Robert Kinsler