New music: Japanese Breakfast, Ricky Byrd, Jimmy Vivino, Jeremy Graeff

In this column I focus on a diverse field of outstanding new releases available now.

Artist: Japanese Breakfast
Title: For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women) (Dead Oceans)
You might like if you enjoy: Florence + the Machine, Mazzy Star

Tell me more: Sonically sumptuous, lyrically rich and never less than bewitching, the fourth album from Japanese Breakfast — For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women) —  is a captivating full-length release showcasing the singular talents of singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Michelle Zauner. The aptly-titled album finds Zauner delving headlong into melancholy, which she notes "as a kind of anticipatory grief, one that comes from an acknowledgement of the passage of time, from the recognition of mortality and finitude." There is dreamy quality across the disc even while each track is enhanced by a unique place in the album's thematic arc. Standouts include the lush opener "Here is Someone," single "Orlando in Love" examining the cost of desire, driving "Honey Water" with its hypnotic-fueled experimental rock drive, the baroque acoustic gem "Little Girl," infectious "Picture Window," country-flavored "Men in Bars" (the latter featuring duet vocals with Jeff Bridges) and lovely closer "Magic Mountain." Japanese Breakfast will perform at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival on April 12 and April 19 in Indio. Information:  japanesebreakfast.rocks.

Artist: Ricky Byrd
Title: NYC Made (Wicked Cool Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Jeff Beck, Raspberries, Jim Carroll, Stevie Van Zandt

Tell me more: Singer-songwriter-guitarist Ricky Byrd's latest album NYC Made (available courtesy of Little Steven's Wicked Cool Records) is an authentic celebration of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer's far-flung influences and rock and roll heroes as well as his own winning musical instincts. From catchy riff rock and tuneful power pop to heartland rock and instrumental virtuosity, the long-time lead guitarist of Joan Jett & the Blackhearts presents a wide-ranging selection of outstanding originals across the LP. The mix of material includes the infectious opener "(Ya Get) 1 Life," aptly-titled "Glamdemic Blues" (the latter recalling the stylings of Mott the Hoople and T. Rex), confessional "Sweet Byrd of Youte," celebratory "Then Along Comes You" and the emotive closer "Best Of Times." "Rhapsody in Blues (One For Jeff)" is a dazzling and emotive tribute to the late guitar master Jeff Beck — who sadly passed away in early 2023. NYC Made is a terrific album sure to please long-time fans of Byrd as well as those discovering his signature sound for the first time. Information: Rickybyrd.com.

Artist: Jimmy Vivino
Title: Gonna Be 2 of Those Days (Gulf Coast Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Joe Bonamassa, Billy F Gibbons, John Sebastian, Tab Benoit
Tell me more: While singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Jimmy Vivino is best known as a long-time member of Conan O'Brien's TV show house band, his wide-ranging career has included work ranging from radio and film to Broadway. Now Gulf Coast Records has released Vivino's full-length label debut Gonna Be 2 of Those Days, a rousing celebration of his formidable talents. The 11-track disc kicks off with the catchy blues-rocker "Blues In The 21st," featuring guest guitar great Joe Bonamassa. Vivino's own skills as a songwriter, virtuoso guitarist and great vocalist shine on that opener as well as across the entire album. The nuanced 1960s-mining "Ruby Is Back," New Orleans-styled title track (the latter featuring guest John Sebastian on harmonica and acoustic guitar), driving blues rocker "Beware The Wolf," swinging romance-themed "Crossed My Mind" and Delta blues acoustic foray "Back Up The Country" are among the album's other highlights. Information: gulfcoastrecords.net.

Artist: Jeremy Graeff
Title: Live From The Wandering Bard [featuring Mark Williams] (Jeremy Graeff Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Owain Phyfe, Renaissance music
Tell me more: Jeremy Graeff' is a top-notch singer-guitarist who tours around the nation as a featured performer at Renaissance Fairs and Festivals; in the fall of 2023 he invited Mark Williams (recorder, flute, harmony vocals) to be his guest on a weekly livestream session. Now five of those bewitching selections appear on the new EP Live From The Wandering Bard, a powerful celebration of Renaissance-styled acoustic music. The opener "A La Una, Yo Naci" (translated to "At One I Was Born") is a powerful and haunting song where Graeff's lead vocals are enhanced by Williams instrumental and vocal talents. The driving "Quen A Omagen" is a work from the Middle Ages from the features a driving rhythm and Williams' dazzling musicianship. Similarly impressive is the duo's version of "Ai Vist Lo Lop" ("I Saw The Wolf"), a medieval song that dates back to the 13th century that is bolstered by Graeff and Williams' elevated harmony vocals. The evocative take on Esther Ofarim's "Una Matika De Ruda" is drenched in melancholy and otherworldly magic. The collection concludes with "Pastimes With Good Company/Quand Je Bois," a captivating medley that concludes with an astonishing display of the powerful vocal interplay between the two singers. Information: jeremygraeffmusic.com.

Robert Kinsler

Guitarist/Singer/Songwriter Ricky Byrd's new solo album, ‘NYC Made,’ out on multiple platforms on March 28 ​​

Get the latest news on acclaimed singer-songwriter-guitar great Ricky Byrd...Robert Kinsler

Guitarist/Singer/Songwriter/Producer Ricky Byrd, a 2015 inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, is set to release his fourth and most personal album yet, the aptly named NYC Made (Wicked Cool Records) on March 28, 2025.

A tribute to the Bronx-born, Queens-raised rock and devoted Yankee fan’s nights listening to the Top 40 radio of his youth, the first single, “Transistor Radio Childhood,” will be available on January 24, the same day pre-release orders begin for the album, available on vinyl, CD and all streaming sites March 28. The single pays homage to the melting pot AM radio of the ‘60s and ‘70s, with nods to his beloved Yankees and WABC DJ Cousin Brucie, The Beach Boys (the “ba-ba-ba-ba of “Barbara Ann”), The Kinks (“You Really Got Me”), Paul Revere and a lyrical bow to Otis Redding (“ I’ve sat on the dock of the bay, Otis whistlin’ in my ear “)Additionally, the track is The Coolest Song in the World in The Underground Garage the week of release.

“I grew up on everything from The Raspberries to The Who to The Stones to The Yardbirds to Sam Cooke,” he told Guitar Player. “If you just mix that all in a stew, I guess it comes out Ricky Byrd. I wear my influences on my sleeve. I write what I know. I just make music to make people happy… and to make me happy.”

That formula holds true for NYC Made, recorded at Parcheesi Studios with longtime co-producer Bob Stander, keyboardist/accordion Jeff Kazee (Asbury Jukes), fiddle player Tony Montalbo, drummers Steve Holley (Wings), Aaron Comess (the Spin Doctors) and Thommy Price (Joan Jett and the Blackhearts), Uptown Horns Arno Hecht and Larry Etkin and the Ba Ba Blacksheep Singers (Stevie Van Zandt, Willie Nile, Jeff Kazee and Marc Ribler) on “Translator Radio Childhood” and “Sweet Byrd of Youte.” In addition, Van Zandt, who co-produced “Transistor Radio Childhood,” “Stay Grateful” and “Sweet Byrd of Youte” with Byrd and Stander, contributes mandolin on “Anna Lee,” the finger-snapping ode to street corner doo-wop co-written by Southside Johnny Lyon with Byrd, which will be the first focus track from the album. Listed on the album credits as Consigliere, Little Steven’s Silvio Dante mob character in The Sopranos adds yet another layer of meaning to NYC Made.

NYC Made offers an overview of the music which continues to drive Byrd, with easter eggs hidden among the influences, from the T. Rex/Mott the Hoople/Queen-style rocker, “Glamdemic Blues,” and “Sweet Byrd of Youte,” his own autobiographical look back when “We were young and ready, willing and able,” to the Sam & Dave gospel soul revue of “Then Along Comes You,” the ‘50s OG spirit of Chuck Berry, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis on “Louanne,” the Ziggy Stardust tip-of-the-hat to a recurring dream, “Alien” and The Who, pass-the-torch celebration of “RnR’s Demise (Has Been Greatly Exaggerated).”

The release of NYC Made follows Byrd’s previous two albums, Clean Getaway (2015) and Sobering Times (2021), both of which reflected his own sobriety (this year will mark his 38th) and the songs which resulted from his leading various recovery music groups at treatment facilities around the country.

Byrd is approaching a half-century as a professional rock ‘n’ roller from his start as a 21-year-old joining the band Susan (RCA) in 1977 (after answering an ad in the Village Voice) before replacing Eric Ambel in Joan Jett and the Blackhearts in 1981, just in time to play guitar and sing vocals on the platinum-plus I Love Rock n’ Roll and the subsequent six albums over the next decade until moving on in 1991. Signing a deal with Sony Music Publishing, over the next 35 years, Ricky recorded, toured and/or shared a stage with a succession of artists he grew up idolizing, among them Roger Daltrey, Ian Hunter, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Joe Walsh, Alice Cooper, Mavis Staples, Darlene Love, Smokey Robinson, The Beach Boys, Jimmy Page, Steve Miller, Ronnie Spector, Graham Nash, Sam Moore, Gary Clark Jr., Peter Wolf and Stevie Wonder.

“Come on DJ/Take my breath away,” “RnR’s Demise (Has Been Greatly Exaggerated)”

“I still get the same thrill when I hear the DJ play one of my records on the car radio,” says Ricky. “Do you need any more than that? As long as there are young, rebellious kids banging away on guitar, bass and drums in their garage, rock ‘n’ roll will survive in one form or another. And I’m still doing it.”

Ricky Byrd’s childhood fantasy has turned into a remarkable lifelong career. It’s only rock ‘n’ roll… but he likes it, loves it, yes he does. NYC Made is all the proof you need.

Information: RickyByrd.com.

Recent Releases Roundup: Ricky Byrd, Heidi Newfield, Cidny Bullens, Brian Bromberg

A diverse field of musical styles are explored via new audio releases featured in my latest column...

Artist: Ricky Byrd

Titles: Sobering Times (Kayos Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Ronnie Wood, Jim Carroll Band, the Smithereens, Willie Nile

Tell me more: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitarist Ricky Byrd isn't facing his demons alone. On his newly-released Sobering Times, the New York-based artist is triumphantly celebrating his recovery with the world at large via a slew of stellar rock originals marked by his straightforward confessional lyrics and infectious rock song craft. The melodic "Quittin' Time (Again)," edgy "Together," breezy "Hear My Song" (featuring Byrd's wonderful mandolin work), acoustic proclamation "Pour Me," and roots rockers "Tired" and "Recover Me" (the latter a terrific duet with Willie Nile) are among the the terrific cuts on the album. Byrd released Clean Getaway in 2017 as a musical statement about recovering from addiction, but it's clear from the strength of "Sobering Times" there was plenty of territory yet to explore this time around. Released on Sept. 25, 2020 (the 33rd anniversary of the day the former Joan Jett & the Blackhearts lead guitarist started on his sober journey), Sobering Times is a wide-ranging release that not only celebrates Byrd's stellar guitar talents and songwriting, but his expressive baritone vocals and ability to mine new pay dirt in the classic sounds of '70s and '80s rock. A stellar cast of players joins Byrd on the recording including Bob Stander (bass guitar, percussion), keyboardist-accordion player Jeff Kazee (of Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes fame), drummer Steve Holley (Wings, Ian Hunter, Joe Cocker), drummer Liberty Devitto (Billy Joel) and vocalist Christine "The Beehive Queen" Ohlman (Saturday Night Live band). Information: RickyByrd.com.

Artist: Heidi Newfield

Titles: The Barfly Sessions (Not Famous Enough LLC)

You might like if you enjoy: Ruthie Foster, Janiva Magness, Larkin Poe, Sass Jordan

Tell me more: Nashville, Tennessee-based songstress Heidi Newfield's explosive talents as singer, harmonica master and songwriter are exhibited across the freewheeling The Barfly Sessions. The 14-track disc finds the artist co-writing and collaborating with a number of ace songwriters and top-tier guests (Jim Lauderdale, Delbert McClinton, Chris Stapleton, Matt King and more). Produced by Newfield along with Jim "Moose" Brown, The Barfly Sessions is a mostly rousing high-octane affair as evidenced by the fiery opener "I Won't Wait Around," countrified "Wrong Side of the Bottle," aptly-titled "Bring This House Down" and rousing cover of "The Blues is My Business (with Newfield and McClinton sharing lead vocals as well as blues harp duties). Newfield also showcases her potent soprano on the soulful ballad "Three Things," tenderhearted country-flavored "Wait For It" and "Temporary Fix (For a Permanent Scar)," and the wistful "When Heaven Falls." Information: HeidiNewfield.com.

Artist: Cidny Bullens

Titles: Walkin' Through This World (Blue Lobster Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Rodney Crowell, Steve Earle, Cindy Bullens

Tell me more: The bold Walkin' Through This World marks singer-songwriter Cidny Bullens' first release as a transgender man; the album (produced by the artist and Ray Kennedy) explores and documents the real-life story of the Nashville-based artist's five-year gender transition. That story is bolstered by the bona fide artistic power and authority of the songs on the disc.   The LP opens with the tuneful "Little Pieces," Americana-mining "Purgatory Road," spoken word-centered anthem "Walkin' Through This World" and affecting "The Gender Line" – which collectively showcase the stellar variety of sounds that bring the LP's theme to life. Other highlights for this listener were the infectious roots rocker "Crack The Sky," uptempo "Call Me By My Name" and spirited rock and roller "Lucky For Me." "Walkin' Through This World" features collaborations with a number of well-known artists including guest vocalists Beth Neilson Chapman, Rodney Crowell, Mary Gauthier, Bill Lloyd and Jess Leary.  A two-time Grammy nominee as Cindy Bullens, the artist has worked with a who's who of greats including Bob Dylan, Sir Elton John and Rod Stewart. What's more, Bullens sang lead vocals on several tracks of the soundtrack of 1978's "Grease" (including "It's Raining on Prom Night" and "Freddy, My Love"). Information: CidnyBullens.com.

Artist: Brian Bromberg

Titles: Bromberg Plays Hendrix - 2020 Remix and Remaster (Artistry Music)

You might like if you enjoy: Brian Bromberg, Vinnie Colaiuta, Stan Getz, Jimi Hendrix

Tell me more: Celebrated jazz bassist Brian Bromberg has issued a remixed and remastered version of his 2008 album Bromberg Plays Hendrix. Re-released in recognition of the 50th anniversary of Hendrix's passing in September 1970, listeners will be blown away that no electric guitars are used on the album; rather, Bromberg uses both acoustic and electric basses (including overdriven electric piccolo bass, a 24-fret instrument with each string tuned an octave up) while drummer Vinnie Colaiuta is also key as they revisit some of the most beloved Jimi Hendrix classics with dazzling arrangements sure to please fans of both jazz and Hendrix. To describe this album as impressive is truly an understatement. My favorite tracks on the album include the opener "Fire," flat-out thrilling "All Along the Watchtower," jazzy "Hey Joe" and high-powered "Purple Haze." The outstanding new mix isn't all; a previously-unreleased funk-tinged rock original track titled "Jimi" recorded during the original sessions is featured here as well. Listen to Bromberg Plays Hendrix with headphones folks and be prepared to be blown away. I sure was! Information: BrianBromberg.net.

Robert Kinsler

Ricky Byrd set to release new album "Sobering Times" on September 25, 2020

Information to share from Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Ricky Byrd, who will release his next album next month...

Ricky Byrd continues his journey as a recovery troubadour with the September 25, 2020 release of 'Sobering Times'

On September 25, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer (2015 inductee with Joan Jett and The Blackhearts) and guitarist/singer-songwriter Ricky Byrd presents Sobering Times (Kayos Records). Pre-orders are currently available at www.rickybyrd.com.

Sobering Times is an honest and intimate reflection of recovery delivered through his signature brand of Rock ‘N’ Roll. As Goldmine Magazine states “...The Faces and The Rolling Stones with a dash of Otis...It rocks like a b*tch. His vocals are the best of his career...early indications make it seem likely that this will be his career statement.”

Following the path he carved with his 2017 album Clean Getaway, Sobering Times (produced by Ricky Byrd and Bob Stander) continues his mission to deliver the message of hope to those recovering from addiction. He expresses the roller coaster of emotions and every day trials of recovery, from hitting rock bottom, to the gratitude of surviving and thriving in a sober life.

On Sobering Times, Byrd is joined by an all-star cast of musicians: Bob Stander(bass guitar, percussion), Jeff Kazee of Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes (keyboards/ accordion/background vocals), Steve Holley (of Wings / Ian Hunter / Joe Cocker, contributed drums to most of the album), Liberty DeVitto (Billy Joel, drums), Rich Pagano (The Fab Faux, session drummer), Thommy Price (Joan Jett, Billy Idol, Mink DeVille, drums) and Christine “The Beehive Queen” Ohlman(vocalist, Saturday Night Live band).

Additionally, he collaborated with Richie Supa (“I Come Back Stronger”) and Willie Nile, who duets with Byrd on “Recover Me”, in addition to Emily Duff, who co-wrote “Ain’t Gonna Live Like That.” Fittingly, he also recorded a cover of Merle Haggard’s “The Bottle Let Me Down”.

Byrd chose the Sobering Times release date of September 25 as it’s also the 33rd anniversary of the day he started his sober journey. Having lived through the disease of addiction himself, Byrd has made it his mission to help others as a recovery coach and drug/alcohol counselor, who visits schools, rehab facilities, detention and detox centers to perform, talk, and lead recovery music groups. In fact, he gave away almost 2500 copies of Clean Getaway at these facilities, so clients could take the message of recovery home with them.

He dedicates Sobering Times to all of those who struggle with addiction, as well as the recovery warriors who help those who are struggling, those that support a clean and sober lifestyle, and of course, those that still love loud and proud Rock ‘N’ Roll.

“As far as third acts go, I couldn't be more grateful for mine,” says Byrd. “I get to use the undeniable power of R'n'R to spread the recovery message to those that are struggling....pretty... pretty... pretty good.”

“I Wanna Sing About How Lucky I Am
You’re Looking At One Grateful Man
I Should Be Long Gone
Yet Here I Stand
Hear My Song”

1.) Quittin’ Time (Again)
2.) Together
3.) Hear My Song
4.) Tired
5.) I Come Back Stronger
6.) Starlit Night
7.) Recover Me (feat. Willie Nile)
8.) Ain’t Gonna Live Like That
9.) Pour Me
10.) The Bottle Let Me Down
11.) Life Is Good
12.) Just Like You

Although best known for his time with The Blackhearts, Byrd has also recorded and played with Roger Daltrey, and toured with Ian Hunter and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, respectively. He is also proud to have shared stages with such music royalty as Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Alice Cooper, Bruce Springsteen, Steven Van Zandt, Smokey Robinson, and Mavis Staples, among others.

www.RickyByrd.com

New music: Beck, Tim Buckley, Whitney Rose, Jackie Greene, Ricky Byrd

A slew of today's great singer-songwriters are featured on essential new releases, while an unearthed treasure trove from legendary tunesmith Tim Buckley is available too.

Artist: Beck
Title: Colors (Capitol Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Beck, Prince, David Bowie
Tell me more: Since Beck burst on the music scene in 1994 with his breakthrough hit "Loser," the singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist has somehow blended alternative rock, pop, soul, funk, hip hop, Americana and a myriad of other styles with unearthly brilliance. On his 13th full-length album Colors, the Southern California-based artist continues to chart his own creative path with a master's touch. This time out, Beck has simultaneously tapped into 1980s synth pop, modern rock and late '60s psychedelic rock to carve out yet another expansive masterwork. The songs here are mostly upbeat, buoyant and armed to get concertgoers on their feet with infectious grooves. The swirling title track "Colors," exuberant "I'm So Free," propulsive "No Distraction" (with its cool fly-by Beatlesque guitar hits and Beck's falsetto vocals) and dreamy "Fix Me" are among this writer's faves. This is an album that reveals its sonic secrets and wonders more fully with each subsequent listen. Information: beck.com.

Artist: Tim Buckley
Title: Venice Mating Call (Manifesto Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Tim Buckley, Alex Chilton, Beck
Tell me more: Before he died at the age of 28 in June 1975, singer-songwriter Tim Buckley created a stellar and genre-defying body of original songs drawing from the blues, folk, funk, soul and other styles. Now Manifesto Records has released the outstanding two-disc Venice Mating Call showcasing live tracks recorded at the legendary Troubadour in Hollywood in September 1969. The haunting "Chase the Blues Away," free form jazz-flavored "Venice Mating Call," psychedelic rock-mining "Gypsy Woman" flamenco-tinged "Driftin'," Ten Years After-patterned "(I Wanna) Testify" and luxurious "Anonymous Proposition" are among the many treasures here. Buckley's dynamic and distinctive vocals are showcased across the live collection and this set will thrill long-time fans or those just discovering this vital artist. Information: manifesto.com.

Artist: Whitney Rose
Title: Rule 62 (Six Shooter/Thirty Tigers)
You might like if you enjoy: Kacey Musgraves, Brenda Lee, Patsy Cline
Tell me more: With a sound and beautiful soprano that recalls some of the stellar country music singers of the '50s and '60s, Nashville-based songstress Whitney Rose shines on the decidedly contemporary Rule 62. Produced by Raul Malo (lead singer of the Mavericks), there is plenty of real world depth and captivating musical heft to lift each and every one of the 11 songs on the disc. The driving and defiant "Arizona" and Time to Cry," tender "You Never Cross My Mind" (which includes some sublime harmonies from Malo) and poetic "Wake Me in Wyoming" showcase Rose's superb talents as singer and songwriter.  Recorded on Jan. 20, 2017 – the same day of the most recent Presidential Inaugural – "Can't Stop Shakin' " has a nervous and funky vibe suited to the uncertainty of the times; the Hammond B3 organ, electric guitar riffs and saxophone blasts immerse Rose's evocative vocals as part of the terrific and disquieting arrangement. An all-star group of musicians including bassist Jay Weaver (Dolly Parton, Tanya Tucker), guitarist Kenny Vaughn (Marty Stuart, Lucinda Williams), drummer Paul Deakin (The Mavericks), pianist Jen Gunderman (Sheryl Crow), fiddler Aaron Till (Asleep at the Wheel) and steel guitar player Chris Scruggs (Marty Stuart) enhance the album as well. Information: SixShooterRecords.com.

Artist: Jackie Greene
Title: The Modern Lives – Vol 1 (Blue Rose Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Beck's "Sea Change," The Jayhawks, Mark Knopfler
Tell me more: One of Americana music's greatest modern-day voices, Jackie Greene has played lead guitar with the Black Crowes, played a seminal role in the roots-minded supergroup Trigger Hippy and carved out an established solo career ripe with concert dates and winning album releases. Now the long-time Northern California artist newly moved to New York City is back with another must-hear release; The Modern Lives – Vol 1 packs a dashing wallop with a heady and diverse mix of songs across its six-song run. The wry "Modern Lives" bristles with an infectious and satirical look at life in the 21st century. "The Back of My Mind" is a tender ballad adorned with layers of piano, acoustic and electric guitar, mandolin and lovely vocal harmonies. The country blues of a cover of Willie Dixon's "Good Advice" recalls the spirit of Mississippi blues with a modern edge. Listening to this impressive EP, it's hard to believe it was reportedly recorded in Greene's Brooklyn basement. Information: JackieGreene.com.

Artist: Ricky Byrd
Title: Clean Getaway (Recovery Troubadour Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Jackie Greene, Jonny Lang
Tell me more: With so many legendary musicians ranging from Jimi Hendrix and Gram Parsons to Keith Moon and John Entwistle having died as a direct result of drug and/or alcohol abuse it is great to hear an artist release a full-length album dedicated to breaking free of addiction. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame singer-guitarist Ricky Byrd (of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts fame) has issued Clean Getaway, a 12-song disc delving fully into the shades, layers and nuances of addition and recovery. On the Chicago blues original "Clean Getaway," Byrd sings powerfully of his break from substance abuse and coming clean (he closes the track singing: "When trouble comes knocking / you know I ain't going to come answer that door"). The music here showcases Byrd's far-flung skills as singer and lead guitarist; for example the rollicking "I Prefer Wakin' Up...To Comin' To" would be at home on one of Chuck Berry's early LPs; "Lighthouse" is a beautiful soul song. The rowdy "Paranoid" has a '70s rock feel and finds Byrd singing of the downfalls of being addicted. This is an album that rocks, but serves as an honest look at a topic the rock community hasn't always been one to assess in song. A portion of the sales from "Clean Getaway" go to the Clean Getaway non-profit 501(c)(3) to bring awareness, education, prevention and addiction resources to those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. Information: https://www.cleangetaway.nyc.


Robert Kinsler

Sights and Sounds: The Rolling Stones, Ricky Byrd, Dhani Harrison

Here is a roundup of some cool music news going into the weekend...

THE ROLLING STONES – ON AIR

ALBUM RELEASED ON DECEMBER 1

‘COME ON’ RELEASED AS FIRST TRACK, AVAILABLE NOW

ON DIGITAL AND STREAMING SERVICES

www.rollingstones.com

  

(Los Angeles, CA) – December 1, 2017 will see the release of The Rolling Stones - On Air, a collection of rarely heard radio recordings from their formative years. The songs, including eight the band have never recorded or released commercially, were originally broadcast on bygone UK BBC shows such as Saturday Club, Top Gear, Rhythm and Blues and The Joe Loss Pop Showbetween 1963 and 1965.  Pre-order The Rolling Stones – On Air here.

Released via Polydor Records/UMe on CD, double CD deluxe edition, heavy-weight vinyl and special limited-edition coloured vinyl, these flashbacks offer an insight into the band as a vital and constantly surprising live unit. Such was the frequency with which they visited BBC studios in the 60’s, the group constantly set out to offer listeners something different. As well as songs that never appeared on singles or albums, there are seven tracks that were debuted over the airwaves before featuring on albums or EPs.

The group’s take on familiar R&B staples like “Roll Over Beethoven,” “Memphis, Tennessee” and “Beautiful Delilah” (all originated by Chuck Berry) illustrate the verve and energy the Stones regularly brought to their live shows. The BBC would urge them to perform their current singles, and while happy to do so they also relished the opportunity to showcase a fuller picture of their prowess as Britain’s foremost blues outfit, packing clubs and ballrooms night after night.

Among the 32 tracks, first heard ringing out of transistor radios over a period of just under two years, is “Come On,” the group’s debut single and also the first number laid down for the iconic Saturday Club, hosted by the late, legendary Brian Matthew. “Come On” is released as the first track from the album and is available now on digital and streaming services. Other highlights include the strutting “Fannie Mae” (originally recorded by bluesman Buster Brown in 1959), Tommy Tucker’s “Hi Heel Sneakers,” and Bo Diddley’s “Cops And Robbers.”

Nestling among the illustrious and well-chosen cover versions, are raw and vibrant renditions of Stones Jagger/Richards originals, such as “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “The Last Time” and “The Spider And The Fly” in a form closer to the thrilling immediacy of the band’s live shows than on vinyl. These recordings bring the listener as near as possible to the excitement of the era without actually being there in person.

If last year’s collection of new recordings of past masters Blue & Lonesome presented the Stones returning to their roots after more than 50 years, On Air is the perfect “sister” compendium, a lovingly curated and restored treasure trove that puts the listener front and centre in the eye of the original storm.

To help recapture the spirit of the songs when they were first performed, the tapes have gone through a process called “audio source separation”, which involved de-mixing the transcripts and allowing engineers at Abbey Road access to the original instrumentation and voices within each track, so that they could be rebuilt, rebalanced and remixed to achieve a fuller, more substantial sound.

The end result is the Stones at their most passionate and intense, transporting listeners back to the band’s lean and hungry years when their standing as household names was already assured, and global domination was just 12 bars away.

The variety of radio shows from which the material is compiled is testament to the special relationship the Stones had with the BBC from the very beginning of their recording career. The music speaks for itself, but On Air also serves as an important historical artefact, and an essential of the group’s impressively evergreen canon.

The Rolling Stones - On Air offer a unique insight into the formative days of The Rolling Stones a few years before ‘The Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band in the World’ became a reality this was a band playing the music they loved so much - Blues, R&B, Soul and even the odd country song. Performing these songs night after night in clubs and dancehalls meant they are all honed to perfection and performed with the genuine love and affection that The Stones have for their musical heritage.

This album follows the recent release of The Rolling Stones – On Air coffee table book, by Richard Havers and published by Virgin Books.

The Rolling Stones ON AIR 1963-65 - Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Brian Jones, Bill Wyman

The Rolling Stones – On Air Track Listing

1.    Come On                                                                    Saturday Club, 1963

2.    (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction                                    Saturday Club, 1965

3.    Roll Over Beethoven                                                Saturday Club, 1963

4.    The Spider And The Fly                                           Yeah Yeah, 1965

5.    Cops And Robbers                                                   Blues in Rhythm, 1964

6.    It’s All Over Now                                                       The Joe Loss Pop Show, 1964

7.    Route 66                                                                     Blues in Rhythm, 1964

8.    Memphis, Tennessee                                               Saturday Club, 1963

9.    Down The Road Apiece                                           Top Gear, 1965

10.  The Last Time                                                           Top Gear, 1965

11.  Cry To Me                                                                  Saturday Club, 1965

12.  Mercy, Mercy                                                             Yeah Yeah, 1965

13.  Oh! Baby (We Got A Good Thing Goin’)                Saturday Club, 1965

14.  Around And Around                                                 Top Gear, 1964

15.  Hi Heel Sneakers                                                      Saturday Club, 1964

16.  Fannie Mae                                                                Saturday Club, 1965

17.  You Better Move On                                                 Blues in Rhythm, 1964

18.  Mona                                                                          Blues In Rhythm, 1964

  

Bonus Tracks (Deluxe)

19.  I Wanna Be Your Man                                               Saturday Club, 1964

20.  Carol                                                                           Saturday Club, 1964

21.  I’m moving On                                                           The Joe Loss Pop Show, 1964

22.  If You Need Me                                                          The Joe Loss Pop Show, 1964

23.  Walking The Dog                                                      Saturday Club, 1964

24.  Confessin’ The Blues                                               The Joe Loss Pop Show, 1964

25.  Everybody Needs Somebody To Love                   Top Gear, 1965

26.  Little By Little                                                            The Joe Loss Pop Show, 1964

27.  Ain’t That Loving You Baby                                    Rhythm And Blues, 1964

28.  Beautiful Delilah                                                       Saturday Club, 1964

29.  Crackin’ Up                                                                Top Gear, 1964

30.  I Can’t Be Satisfied                                                   Top Gear, 1964

31.  I Just Want to Make Love To You                           Saturday Club, 1964

32.  2120 South Michigan Avenue                                 Rhythm and Blues, 1964

THE ROLLING STONES – ON AIR WILL BE RELEASED BY POLYDOR RECORDS/UMe

ON DECEMBER 1, 2017

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www.twitter.com/rollingstones

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HALL OF FAMER RICKY BYRD RELEASES

 

CLEAN GETAWAY

 

A COLLECTION OF ROCK AND ROLL SONGS THAT ADDRESS ADDICTION AND RECOVERY

 

~PORTION OF SALES TO BENEFIT CLEAN GETAWAY NON-PROFIT 501(c)(3)~

 

            ~OCTOBER 20, 2017~

 

Passion drives music…the deeper the passion, the larger the ripple effect.

 

This month, Rock and Roll Hall Of Famer Ricky Byrd – founder of the non-profit Clean Getaway 501(c)(3)– will release Clean Getaway, a collection of 12 songs evoking the intricacies and emotions behind addiction and recovery. The album will be available via CD Baby, iTunes, Amazon, and all other online stores, with a portion of the sales going to the Clean Getaway non-profit 501(c)(3).

 

Ricky Byrd has devoted himself to spreading the message of hope and possibilities through Rock and Roll. The mission of the Clean Getaway non-profit is to bring awareness, education, prevention and addiction resources to those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction through the healing power of music. It does this through Concert Events, Music Outreach Sessions and Early Education and Prevention programs.

 

For the past five years, Byrd has led recovery music groups in various treatment and detox facilities across the country. At the end of each session, the patients would ask where they could get the songs he played. That inspired him to raise the money via an online music campaign to record Clean Getaway, which will also be given away to patients.

 

In February 2017, he hunkered down in the studio, pulling various songs written for his music groups. Produced by Ricky Byrd and Bob Stander, the collection consists of self-penned songs, as well as a rocking cover of “Kicks” and material in which Byrd collaborated with songwriting luminaries Richie Supa and Mark Hudson. A master musical director and guitar virtuoso, Byrd is joined by several stellar musicians on Clean Getaway: Bobby Whitlock (keyboards, Derek and The Dominos), Steve Holley (drums - Wings), Bob Stander (bass), Andy Burton (keyboards, Little Steven and The Disciples Of Soul), Jeff Kazee (keyboards, Southside Johnny), John Isley and Chris Anderson of the Asbury Jukes (horns), Christine Ohlman (SNL band), Marge Raymond, Mark Hudson, and Sara Devine on vocals.

 

However, as far as Ricky is concerned, Recovery is the special guest here. “An important part of this journey is giving back and spreading the message,” he says. “I do my best talking through music…as a recovery troubadour.”

 

For more information about Clean Getaway non-profit 501(c)(3), please visit: https://www.cleangetaway.nyc.

 

 

DHANI HARRISON RELEASES FIRST SOLO ALBUM IN///PARALLEL 

AVAILABLE TODAY (Friday, October 6, 2017)

 

 

UPCOMING APPEARANCES ON 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' and 'Conan' 

LISTEN + PURCHASE IN//PARALLEL HERE

Hear the singles "Admiral of Upside Down", "All About Waiting" and "Summertime Police"

 

 

"In///Parallel announces the arrival of an unexpectedly intense artist, whose mission is to tell stories not just with words but cannily developed sonic realms."

- Tom Moon (NPR)

 

"A sonic marvel and mystery that should reveal and reward over repeated listening." - Jeff Karoub (Associated Press)

 

"Psychedelic electro-rock odyssey filled with throbbing synthesizers and psychological pondering." - Ryan Reed (Rolling Stone) (on first single "All About Waiting")

 

"Dhani Harrison's solo debut is anything but a throwback." - Vulture

LOS ANGELES, CA, OCTOBER 6, 2017 - Grammy Award winning musician Dhani Harrison's new album IN///PARALLEL is available today through BMG Records.

 

IN///PARALLEL offers a soundtrack to self-exploration, and gives audiences a perspective into Harrison's own personal developments in creating his first solo record. Echoing influences from his time as a composer over the past few years, the music of the new record paints a cinematic soundscape. 

 

"I have a fairly lucid memory. I remember events from my life and put music to them," shares Harrison of the new album. "Each track is pretty much a scene from my past. My gift from the universe is that I really enjoy changing, and that's why I'm now happy being Dhani Harrison. With everything you accomplish, you gain a freedom to do something else in your life, not unlike a video game, where you unlock different levels, powers and weapons. I had to go through the process, and I unlocked a lot of different stuff in myself, which allows me to be who I am now."

 

Harrison will be touring the U.S. in support of the new album in November. He also has appearances scheduled for Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Monday, October 9, and CONAN on Monday, October 30.

 IN///PARALLEL Album

1.    Never Know

2.    #WarOnFalse

3.    Úlfur Resurrection

4.    Downtown Tigers

5.    London Water
6.    Summertime Police

7.    Poseidon (Keep Me Safe)

8.    The Light Under The Door

9.    All About Waiting

10. Admiral of Upside Down

 

Tour Dates

Nov 6th - New York - Knitting Factory (tickets)

Nov 7th - Washington, DC - U Street Music Hall (tickets)

Nov 19th - Seattle - The Crocodile (tickets)

Nov 20th - Portland - Doug Fir Lounge (tickets)

Nov 22nd - San Francisco - The Chapel (tickets)

Nov 27th - Solana Beach, CA - Belly Up (tickets)

Nov 28th - Santa Ana, CA - The Observatory (tickets)

Nov 30th - Los Angeles - The El Rey (tickets)

  

Watch the new album release teaser for IN///PARALLEL here.

 

Purchase the album with limited edition bundle packages here.

 

For concert tickets, click here.

 

About Dhani Harrison:

Dhani Harrison has more than paid his dues in a career that includes three albums and two EPs with his band project thenewno2, along with a role in the supergroup Fistful of Mercy (with Ben Harper and Joseph Arthur). He co-produced (with Jeff Lynne) his father's posthumous 2004 album Brainwashed, which earned three Grammy nominations and won the award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance ("Marwa Blues"). He's also collaborated with an eclectic array of musicians during his career including like-minded artists such as The Wu-Tang Clan, Regina Spektor, Pearl Jam, UNKLE and Prince. In addition, Harrison has become an accomplished soundtrack composer, creating memorable scores for Richard La Gravenese's Beautiful Creatures and his TV show The Divide (with Tony Goldwyn), as well as the feature Learning to Drive (with Sir Ben Kingsley) and TV series, including executive producer Paul Giamatti's Outsiders, the Amazon original series Good Girls Revoltand Showtime's White Famous. Now focusing on his solo project, the new album IN///PARALLEL will be released on October 6 through BMG Records.