Paul Weller announces new covers album 'Find El Dorado' out July 25

Check out this exciting news about the forthcoming release of Paul Weller's next album, "Find El Dorado," an ambitious collection of cover songs set for release on July 25. And be sure to listen to the great new advance track "Lawdy Rolla" via the link below...Robert Kinsler

PAUL WELLER ANNOUNCES NEW COVERS ALBUM FIND EL DORADO OUT JULY 25 AND RETURNS TO WARNER RECORDS/PARLOPHONE RECORDS   PRE-ORDER FIND EL DORADO HERE   NEW SINGLE “LAWDY ROLLA” / “PINBALL” OUT NOW LISTEN AND PRE-ORDER 7” VINYL HERE

Photo credit: Dean Chalky May 21, 2025 (Los Angeles, CA) — Paul Weller announces the release of Find El Dorado, a deeply personal new album of reinterpretations, out July 25th on vinyl, CD and digital. Click HERE to pre-order.  Drawing on a lifetime of listening, the record sees Weller revisit songs that have long lived in the back of his mind—now reimagined with fresh meaning and a sense of reverence. “These are songs I’ve carried with me for years,” Weller says. “They’ve taken on new shapes over time. And now felt like the moment to share them.” The release also marks a new chapter in Weller’s storied legacy. As a defining figure in British music who has sold approximately 11 million albums in the UK alone throughout his incredible career, Weller makes a welcome return to Warner Records/Parlophone Records, the label behind his critically acclaimed run of albums from 2015 to 2019 which include Saturns Pattern, A Kind Revolution, True Meanings, JAWBONE - Music From The Film and Other Aspects - Live At The Royal Festival Hall. If it’s possible to get lost in music, Weller shows that you can also find yourself in it. Find El Dorado is less a covers album and more a map of his emotional and musical DNA. From the quiet melancholy of Ray Davies’ “Nobody’s Fool” to the shimmering ache of “El Dorado,” these are songs that shaped his inner world—and now, through a mix of intimate arrangements and standout collaborations with the likes of Hannah Peel, Declan O’Rourke, Robert Plant, Seckou Keita, Amelia Coburn and Noel Gallagher, he’s passing them on. This is Weller at his most reflective, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the music that made him, and a reminder that great songs never age, they just evolve. Two songs from the album are released as digital singles today: Track 1 is “Lawdy Rolla,” which was originally by an obscure French studio band called The Guerrillas, who featured African jazz star Manu Dibango in their ranks. A video for “Lawdy Rolla” will be released later this month, listen to the track and watch the visualizer HERE. The second track, and arguably one of the most familiar on the album, is Brian Protheroe’s beautiful 1974 hit “Pinball,” reimagined here with a hauntingly evocative saxophone contribution from Weller band memberJacko Peake. Find El Dorado track list - and the artists that originally recorded them in brackets 1. Handouts in the Rain (Richie Havens) 2. Small Town Talk (Bobby Charles) 3. El Dorado (Eamon Friel) 4. White Line Fever (The Flying Burrito Brothers) 5. One Last Cold Kiss (Christy Moore) 6. When you are a King (White Plains) 7. Pinball (Brian Protheroe) 8. Where there’s Smoke, There’s Fire (Willie Griffin) 9. I Started a Joke (Bee Gees) 10. Never the Same (Lal and Mike Waterson) 11. Lawdy Rolla (The Guerrillas) 12. Nobody’s Fool (The Kinks) 13. Journey (Duncan Browne) 14. Daltry Street (Jake Fletcher / PP Arnold) 15. Clive’s Song (Hamish Imlach) Find El Dorado will be available in the following formats: Double black 180g vinyl LP. D2C exclusive Coke Bottle Green double vinyl LP. Amazon exclusive double black vinyl with alternative artwork. CD and digital album available from all DSP’s.  Find El Dorado was produced and arranged by Weller band guitarist Steve Cradock. The album was  engineered by Steve Cradock and Charles Rees and recorded at Kundalini Studio and Black Barn Studio. Mixes by Charles Rees and Steve Cradock. Geoff Pesche mastered the album at Abbey Road Studios. Arrangements by Hannah Peel.

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The Kinks announce 'The Journey,' a two-part special anniversary anthology release

It's wonderful to see The Kinks getting some well-deserved attention via "The Journey," a special release coming next month...Robert Kinsler

Special 60th anniversary celebration of one of the greatest British rock bands of all time   The Kinks announce The Journey, a two-part special anniversary anthology release   The Journey - Part 1  2CD, 2LP, Digital & HD Digital Worldwide release March 24, 2023    The Kinks, one of the greatest ever British rock groups, celebrate their 60th Anniversary in 2023. Formed in 1963 in Muswell Hill, North London, by brothers Ray and Dave Davies with their friend Pete Quaife, and joined by Mick Avory in early 1964, the band quickly established themselves as one of the epoch-defining groups of the 60s, with their impact still being felt around the world today.   The stats speak for themselves: The Kinks have sold over 50 million records worldwide and have been streamed over a billion times; they have achieved five US Top 10 singles, nine US Top 40 albums, seventeen UK Top 20 singles and five UK Top 10 albums, with four albums certified Gold. Among numerous honors, they have received the Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Service To British Music and have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame. Multi-award winning, legendary frontman Sir Ray Davies is widely recognized as one of the greatest British songwriters of all time.   The Kinks 60 campaign will be a two-year-long celebration of their illustrious musical journey career, confirming their place as one of the greatest and most influential rock groups of all time. As a key part of the campaign, and to mark this milestone, a career-defining anthology, The Journey, will be released on BMG in two parts, with The Journey - Part 1 released on 24 March 2023.   The songs on The Journey - Part 1 (1964-1975) have been handpicked for the first time by Ray, Dave and Mick, curated according to themes inspired by the trials and tribulations of their journey through life together as a band since 1963. Featuring hits such as “You Really Got Me,” “Waterloo Sunset,” “All Day And All Of The Night,” “Celluloid Heroes,” “Supersonic Rocket Ship,” “Dead End Street,” and “Death Of A Clown” The Journey - Part 1 follows recently remastered 50th anniversary deluxe editions of The Village Green Preservation Society, Lola Versus Powerman Part 1, Muswell Hillbillies and Everybody's In Show-Biz. All tracks have been lovingly remastered from the original audio sources.   "Ask yourself the question, is this journey really necessary?.......Yes!” Ray Davies muses on The Journey. Dave Davies continues, “I’m delighted with what I think is an inspiring selection of timeless and magical Kinks music.”   The Journey - Part 1 will be released on 2CD, 2LP, Digital and HD Digital albums. The physical formats contain a booklet with band photos and personal track-by-track notes from Ray, Mick, and Dave, sharing their memories of the time these tracks were recorded and weaving them into the Kinks’ incredible story.   Details of the The Journey - Part 2 will follow later this year.   A host of global events and activities will be launching throughout 2023 & 2024 to mark the band’s 60th, with more to be announced in the coming months. RELEASE FORMATS: 2LP

Side 1 Songs about becoming a man, the search for adventure, finding an identity and a girl:  1.        You Really Got Me (UK#1, 1964) 2.        All Day And All Of The Night (UK#2, 1964) 3.        It's All Right (1964) 4.        Who'll Be The Next In Line (1965) 5.        Tired Of Waiting For You (UK#1, 1965) 6.        She's Got Everything (1968) 7.        Just Can't Go To Sleep (1964) 8.        Stop Your Sobbing (1964) 9.        Wait Till The Summer Comes Along (1965) 10.      So Long (1965) Side 2 Songs of ambition achieved, bitter taste of success, loss of friends, the past comes back and bites you in the backside: 1.        Dead End Street (UK#5, 1966) 2.        Schooldays (1975) 3.        The Hard Way (1975) 4.        Mindless Child Of Motherhood (1969) 5.        Supersonic Rocket Ship (UK#2, 1972) 6.        I'm In Disgrace (1975) 7.        Do You Remember Walter? (1968) Side 3 Days and nights of a lost soul, songs of regret and reflection of happier times: 1.        Too Much On My Mind (1966) 2.        Nothin’ In The World Can Stop Me Worryin’ ‘Bout That Girl (1965) 3.        Days (UK#2, 1968) 4.        Where Have All The Good Times Gone (1965) 5.        Strangers (1970) 6.        It’s Too Late (1965) 7.        Sitting In The Midday Sun (1973) Side 4 A new start, a new love, but have you really changed? Still haunted by the quest and the girl: 1.        Waterloo Sunset (UK#2, 1967) 2.        No More Looking Back (1975) 3.        Death Of A Clown (UK#3, 1967) 4.        Celluloid Heroes (1972) 5.        Act Nice And Gentle (1967) 6.        This Is Where I Belong (1967) 2CD CD1 Songs about becoming a man, the search for adventure, finding an identity and a girl:  1.        You Really Got Me (UK#1, 1964) 2.        All Day And All Of The Night (UK#2, 1964) 3.        It's All Right (1964) 4.        Who'll Be The Next In Line (1965) 5.        Tired Of Waiting For You (UK#1, 1965) 6.        Dandy (Germany#1, 1966) 7.        She's Got Everything (1968) 8.        Just Can't Go To Sleep (1964) 9.        Stop Your Sobbing (1964) 10.      Wait Till The Summer Comes Along (1965) 11.      So Long (1965) 12.      I'm Not Like Everybody Else (1966) Songs of ambition achieved, bitter taste of success, loss of friends, the past comes back and bites you in the backside: 13.      Dead End Street (UK#5, 1966) 14.      Wonderboy (1968) 15.      Schooldays (1975) 16.      The Hard Way (1975) 17.      Mindless Child Of Motherhood (1969) 18.      Supersonic Rocket Ship (UK#2, 1972) 19.      I'm In Disgrace (1975) 20.      Do You Remember Walter? (1968) CD2 Days and nights of a lost soul, songs of regret and reflection of happier times: 1.        Too Much On My Mind (1966) 2.        Nothin’ In The World Can Stop Me Worryin’ ‘Bout That Girl (1965) 3.        Days (UK#2, 1968) 4.        Last Of The Steam-Powered Trains (1968) 5.        Where Have All The Good Times Gone (1965) 6.        Strangers (1970) 7.        It’s Too Late (1965) 8.        Sitting In The Midday Sun (1973) A new start, a new love, but have you really changed? Still haunted by the quest and the girl: 9.        Waterloo Sunset (UK#2, 1967) 10.      Australia (1969) 11.      No More Looking Back (1975) 12.      Death Of A Clown (UK#3, 1967) 13.      Celluloid Heroes (1972) 14.      Act Nice And Gentle (1967) 15.      This Is Where I Belong (1967) 16.      Shangri-La (1969) CONNECT WITH THE KINKS WEBSITE I FACEBOOK I TWITTER I SPOTIFY

Robert Kinsler's favorite 22 reissues, live albums, compilations and special releases of 2022

This year was a terrific one for lovers of expanded deluxe reissues, live sets and special editions...

Artist: The Beach Boys

Title: Sounds Of Summer — The Very Best Of The Beach Boys (Capitol/UMe)

You might like if you enjoy: The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Jan and Dean

Tell me more: Originally released back in 2003, the wonderful collection Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys was an immediate commercial success remaining on the charts for 104 weeks and ultimately earning 4x platinum certification for sales of four and a half million albums. Fast forward to 2022 and that 30-track collection has been expanded to a total of 80 tracks in celebration of The Beach Boys' yearlong 60th anniversary celebration. It includes 26 new mixes, two first-time stereo mixes as well as 24 new-and-improved stereo mixes. The good news is that both casual and die-hard fans of the beloved group will be rewarded with this expansive title. The parade of stellar hits that spans disc 1 is certainly a great overview of the band's timeless radio favorites ("California Girls," "Surfing' Safari," "Don't Worry Baby," In My Room," "God Only Knows," "Good Vibrations" and so many more), but discs 2 and 3 provide a vast and wider appreciation of the Beach Boys via treasures from the '60s, '70s and '80s. Among the standout selections include the luxurious "All Summer Long," lovely "Disney Girls," tender "Forever," joyous "Sail on Sailor," shimmering "Baby Blue," ambitious "Wind Chimes," harmonies-filled "Add Some Music To Your Day" and rollicking garage rocker "All I Want To Do." Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys is available in a variety of formats including digitally, 3CD soft pack and as a Super Deluxe Edition 6LP vinyl boxed set on 180-gram black vinyl in two options - a standard set or a numbered, limited edition version featuring a rainbow foil slipcase and four collectible lithographs. Information: TheBeachBoys.com.

Artist: The Beatles

Title: Revolver Special Edition (Capitol Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Beatles, The Zombies

Tell me more: The Beatles' 1966 album Revolver is widely considered one of the British band's most beloved albums. The newly-released Revolver Special Edition showcases just how brilliant John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr — along with producer George Martin and engineer Geoff Emerick — were at creating one of the greatest recordings of the 20th century over the course of a few short months leading up to its release in August 1966. The range of material across the album astounds; listeners will be reminded how many light years ahead the Fab Four were compared to their contemporaries. The material ranges from Harrison's propulsive rocker "Taxman," yearning "I Want To Tell You" and Indian music-immersed "Love You To" to McCartney's beautiful Baroque gem "For No One" and rapturous R&B blast "Got To Get You Into My Life." Lennon's talents are showcased via the driving power pop nugget "And Your Bird Can Sing," rollicking "Doctor Robert" and experimental masterpiece "Tomorrow Never Knows." The expanded deluxe edition of Revolver (the Super Deluxe 5CD Edition is the title reviewed in this column) includes a new stereo mix of the album by GRAMMY Award winning producer Giles Martin (son of the late George Martin) and Sam Okell, two "Sessions CDs" of outtakes, rehearsals, demos and studio chat, the original 1966 mono album, along with a bonus EP with stereo mixes and the original 1966 mono versions of "Paperback Writer" and "Rain" (those two epic singles preceded the release of Revolver). The expanded Revolver Special Edition also includes a 100-page book with a foreword by McCartney, an essay by Questlove, detailed track notes, photographs and ephemera including handwritten lyrics, tape boxes and extracts from artist Klaus Voormann's graphic novel on the making of the GRAMMY-winning original album cover. Information: TheBeatles.com. 

Artist: Bobby Cole

Title: A Point Of View (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett

Tell me more: One of 1967's most legendary albums is finally available via a remastered and expanded version sure to please fans of jazz and '60s recordings. Bobby Cole's A Point Of View exceeds its legendary status thanks to the late artist's incredible talents as singer, songwriter and pianist as well as Grammy-winning producer Cheryl Pawelski and remastering from Michael Graves. The lovely "But It's Spring" is soaked in melancholy, Cole's vocal strengths showcased in each distinctive note of his delivery. Available on audio CD and digital now, a double-LP version is slated for Fall 2022. The inspired jazzy gems that are revisited on the collection include the fleet "Heat," affecting ballad "You Could Hear a Pin Drop," soaring "A Perfect Day," evocative "Elegy For Eve" and reflective "I'm Growing Old." There a number of of previously-unissued bonus tracks to discover too; the rollicking "Checkerboard Life," mournful "How The Lonely Spend Their Time," haunting "I Never Saw The Shadows," stirring "When She Was In Love With Me" and romantic "The Midnight Flower" shed abundant light on Cole's virtuosity. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.  

Artist: Creedence Clearwater Revival

Title: At The Royal Albert Hall (Craft Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: John Fogerty, Creedence Clearwater Revival

Tell me more: The long-awaited release of Creedence Clearwater Revival's legendary April 14, 1970 performance at London's Royal Albert Hall is an absolute joy. Grammy-winning producer Giles Martin and engineer Sam Okell mixed and restored the original multitrack tapes; the result is a recording that spectacularly captures the legendary quartet (singer-lead guitarist John Fogerty, rhythm guitarist Tom Fogerty, drummer Doug "Cosmo" Clifford, bassist Stu Cook) at the height of their powers. The fast-moving 12-song set on At The Royal Albert Hall finds the El Cerrito, California-spawned outfit tearing through a mix of timeless hits and lesser known nuggets with bona fide zeal. While casual rock fans will love the powerful takes on "Born on the Bayou," "Green River," Travelin' Band," Bad Moon Rising" and "Proud Mary," aficionados will be equally thrilled by the Lew Herman-penned blues-rock juggernaut "The Night Time Is the Right Time," rollicking take on Little Richard's "Good Golly Miss Molly" and the ferocious Southern-fried closer "Keep on Chooglin'," the latter bolstered by John Fogerty's impressive work on both blues harmonica and lead guitar. In addition to the concert recording being available on audio CD and vinyl, Netflix subscribers can view the full concert that anchors the excellent Jeff Bridges-narrated documentary "Travelin' Band: Creedence Clearwater Revival at the Royal Albert Hall." Information: CraftRecordings.com.

Artist: Marshall Crenshaw

Title: #447 (Shiny-Tone)

You might like if you enjoy: Marshall Crenshaw, The Smithereens, Gin Blossoms

Tell me more: In 2020, Marshall Crenshaw launched a series of reissues focused on a handful of his classic albums beginning with the release of his 1996 album Miracle of Science. On Feb. 4, 2022, a deluxe and expanded edition of his 1999 masterwork #447 was released. This was an ambitious effort featuring Crenshaw on lead vocals, guitar, bass, drums, percussion and vintage keyboards; the album was bolstered by the contributions of Bill Lloyd, Greg Leisz, Andy York and former E. Street Band member David Sancious. Remastered with perfection by engineer Greg Calbi, the new edition of #447 allows listeners to rediscover a parade of outstanding selections including the melodic "Television Light," Americana "Glad Goodbye," jazzy instrumental "Eydie's Tune," power pop gem "T.M.D." and Irresistible "Tell Me All About It" along with two new bonus tracks (the terrific roots rocker "Will of the Wind" and a wistful cover of Gregg Turner's "Santa Fe"). Information: MarshallCrenshaw.com.  

Artist: The Cure

Title: Wish: 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition (Elektra/WEA)

You might like if you enjoy: The Cure, The Church

Tell me more: The Cure's 1992 outstanding Wish was reissued as a deluxe, must-have 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition in 2022. The expanded edition includes 45 tracks (all compiled by band leader Robert Smith), including 24 previously-unreleased tracks and four new to audio CD. CD 1 features the original album, newly remastered by Smith and Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios. The second disc features 21 previously unreleased demos. The third disc includes the four tracks from the mail-order only cassette "Los Wishes" released in 1993 and a slew of other gems. A truly must-have celebration of one of the best albums of the 1990s. Information: thecure.com.

Artist: The Hagers

Title: The Complete Capitol Albums (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The Everly Brothers, Buck Owens, Merle Haggard

Tell me more: Listening to the wonderful recordings that fill Omnivore Recordings' The Complete Capitol Albums by American country duo The Hagers, it defies belief that the team failed to ever score a top hit on the Billboard charts. Jim and John Hager recorded three albums for Capitol Records: The Hagers and Two Hagers Are Better Than One in 1970, and Motherhood, Apple Pie & The Flag in 1971. Additionally, the identical twins appeared 135 times on "Hee Haw" between 1969 and 1985. With the appreciation and explosion of Americana and roots music over the past decade, it's not a stretch to see there may very well be a new appreciation of The Hagers in 2022. The vocal talents of the twins shine across the 30-track collection. The lovely "Loneliness Without You," lively "I'm Her Fun," affecting take on Buck Owens' "Tender Loving Care," soaring "Give It Time," elegant "Flowers Need Sun Too" and nuanced cover of Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings" are early highlights. Late disc standouts include the lovely "Second Fiddle," lovely "I'm Miles Away," countrified "Motherhood, Apple Pie & The Flag," alluring "Four Strong Winds" and Everly Brothers-styled "California On My Mind." Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Janis Joplin & Jorma Kaukonen

Title: The Legendary Typewriter Tape: 6/25/64 Jorma's House (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna

Tell me more: Set for release on Dec. 2, The Legendary Typewriter Tape: 6/25/64 Jorma's House is an important and historical release featuring singer Janis Joplin and guitarist Jorma Kaukonen (Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna) — along with Jorma's wife Margareta Kaukonen typing away intermittently in the background — recorded on a reel-to-reel machine at the beginning of their respective careers. Although the recording has previously been available via inferior bootlegs, the official version released by Omnivore Recordings today (Dec. 2, 2022) features restoration and mastering from Grammy-winner Michael Graves and sounds wonderful. There are a mix of originals and reworked blues standards. Joplin's own "Kansas City Blues," the evocative "Hesitation Blues," a moving take on Jimmie Cox's "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out," and the fiery Joplin-penned "Daddy, Daddy Daddy" are among the winning performances captured back in the summer of 1964. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

 

Artist: The Kinks

Title: Muswell Hillbillies / Everybody's in Show-Biz — Everybody's a Star (BMG)

You might like if you enjoy: The Kinks, Blur

Tell me more: The 2CD version Muswell Hillbillies / Everybody's in Show-Biz — Everybody's a Star combines two classic albums from the Kinks. Both 1971's Muswell Hillbillies and 1972's Everybody's in Show-Biz — Everybody's a Star were remastered for the 50th anniversary reissue and several bonus tracks are included on the title. In edition to the 2CD version, the title is available via a deluxe box set, as well as a 1LP, 2LP, and via digital. Information: bmg.com.

Artist: Kris Kristofferson
Title: Live at Gilley’s - Pasadena, TX: September 15, 1981 (New West Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Michael Ubaldini, Johnny Cash 

Tell me more: Recorded at Gilley's in Pasadena, Texas on Sept. 15, 1981, Kris Kristofferson's latest release is truly a celebration of the 86-year-old Brownsville, Texas native's enduring and timeless songcraft. From the raucous opener "Me And Bobby McGee," poignant "Casey's Last Ride" and poetic mandolin-adorned "The Pilgrim" to the deeply affecting "For The Good Times" and tender "Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again)," the freewheeling concert event is a delightful trip back to a historic outing captured when Kristofferson was at the height of his powers. Other standouts on the 15-track Live at Gilley’s - Pasadena, TX: September 15, 1981 include the sparse "Here Comes That Rainbow Again" and "Nobody Loves Anybody Anymore," the country nugget "If It's All The Same To You" and bona fide classic "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down." Information: NewWestRecords.com.

Artist: The Left Banke

Title: Strangers on a Train (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The Zombies, The Hollies, Badfinger

Tell me more: Best known for their hit singles "Walk Away Renee" and "Pretty Ballerina," the Left Banke's story extended beyond those '60s radio favorites as evidenced on a newly-released expanded edition of the troupe's third and final album Strangers on a Train. The new remastered collection rightfully celebrates the New York-spawned baroque pop group's final recordings gathered together on an essential disc of 16 outstanding cuts. Originally featuring the talents of songwriter/keyboardist Michael Brown, lead singer Steve Martin Caro, bassist/vocalist Tom Finn and drummer/singer George Cameron, the Left Banke recorded two LPs in the late 1960s (Walk Away Renée/Pretty Ballerina and The Left Banke Too) before breaking up in 1969. However, the world was reintroduced to the Left Banke via Strangers on a Train issued in 1986; that album was actually a collection recorded in 1978 by Caro, Finn and Cameron. The final chapter came in 2001 when Brown invited Caro to lay down vocals on demos for a hoped-for Left Banke reunion —  six of those songs complete the new Omnivore Recordings title. The enticing title track, melodic "Heartbreaker," Beatlesque "Hold On Tight" and wistful "Yesterday's Love" are among the strong early selections on the set. The chamber pop gem "And One Day," gorgeous "I Can Fly," harmonies-filled "Only My Opinion" and funk-meets-disco "Queen of Paradise" along with previously-unheard bonus tracks (notably the lovely "Airborne," confessional "I Don't Know" and gorgeous "Until The End") help keep the momentum soaring high. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.  

Artist: Lions & Ghosts

Title: Velvet Kiss, Lick of The Lime (Sparkle Plenty Records/Deko Entertainment)

You might like if you enjoy: Simple Minds, Altered State, The Replacements, The Church

Tell me more: Signed to EMI for two albums that were issued in the late 1980s, Los Angeles-based Lions & Ghosts' wonderful 1987 debut Velvet Kiss, Lick of The Lime has been reissued digitally with bonus tracks and even a new single (the shimmering "Gurl I Luv You"). Thirty five years after it was originally released, Velvet Kiss, Lick of The Lime delights and will leave listeners wondering why the quartet didn't garner more attention. The enthralling opener "Passion," bouncy "Man In A Car," driving '80s-styled rocker "Mary Goes Round," and harpsichord-anchored chamber pop gem "Stay" are early standouts on the reissue. The jazzy detour "Girl On A Swing," propulsive "Love & Kisses From The Gutter," yearning "Wilton House" and funky "Contradiction" keep up the disc's power in its last half. Lions & Ghosts featured the talents of singer-songwriter Rick Parker, guitarist Michael Lockwood, bassist Todd Hoffman and drummer Micheal Murphy. Information: DekoEntertainment.com.

Artist: The Loud Family and Anton Barbeau

Title: What If It Works? (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Game Theory, Anton Barbeau, Big Star, The Three O'Clock

Tell me more: Founded by singer-songwriter Scott Miller in 1982, Game Theory released a number of outstanding albums and several EPs that secured the power pop band's hero status. After the end of Game Theory in 1990, Miller recruited a new group of players and formed The Loud Family. In 2014, Omnivore Recordings began to release a series of remastered and expanded reissues of Game Theory's complete catalog. That record label's ambitious effort to champion the work of Miller now includes an expanded and deluxe edition of The Loud Family's 2006 album What If It Works, an LP which found Miller teaming with rising singer-songwriter Anton Barbeau to create a true masterpiece (sadly, Miller passed away in 2013 at the age of 53).  The material across What If It Works? is melodic to be sure, but the surrounding layers made up of literate songwriting, sharp musical arrangements, great musicianship and experimental elements make for an action-packed listen with new discoveries to be heard with every listen. Just listen to original album track-list offerings "Rocks Off" (a Rolling Stones cover), "Pop Song 99," "Flow Thee Water" and the title track, as well as bonus tracks like the cascading "Don't Bother Me While I'm Living Forever," melodic "I've Been Craving Lately," and rocking "Little Daisy." The reissue features the original 10-track release, as well as more than a dozen bonus tracks. The wonderful packaging includes a 16-page booklet filled with photos, an essay from Stew Stewart, and a conversation between Barbeau and Scott Miller's widow (Kristine Miller) discussing the making of the album. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com. 

Artist: The Muffs

Title: Really Really Happy (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The Muffs, The Pandoras, Pixies

Tell me more: Nearly 18 years after its original release, an expanded and essential edition of The Muffs' 2004 album Really Really Happy was released May 13 through Omnivore Recordings. The original album's highlights include the catchy opener "Freak Out," yearning "A Little Luxury," tuneful "Something Inside," hard-hitting "And I Go Pow," heartfelt "How I Pass The Time," the introspective closer "The Story of Me" and a parade of other great songs. The lineup of 22 bonus tracks includes 16 of Kim Shattuck's original demos for the album along with the previously unissued "My Imagination," "Just The Beginning" and "I Hate Gym." The fusion of tight melodic punk rock, melody-anchored songcraft and strong production make for a fantastic listen across the double-CD title. In addition to Shattuck (vocals, guitar, harmonica), the Muffs' lineup includes Ronnie Barnett (bass, toy piano) and Roy McDonald (drums, percussion). Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.  

Artist: Orianthi

Title: Live From Hollywood (Frontiers Music Srl)

You might like if you enjoy: Orianthi, Nita Strauss, Michael Jackson's "This Is It" documentary

Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/guitar hero Orianthiis back with Live From Hollywood, a sharp 11-track set of hard-hitting melodic rock captured on Jan. 8, 2022 at the Bourbon Room in Hollywood, CA.  The release — available on audio CD/DVD and Blu-ray — sees the guitarist and her excellent five-member backing band playing songs from the Australia native's most recent release O (notably the hard rocking lead-off track "Contagious," soulful "Sinners Hymn" and edgy "Impulsive") and audience favorites like the kiss-off "What's It Gonna Be?" and stirring romantic cut "Blues Won't Leave Me Alone." Additional highlights include the AC/DC-styled "Think Like A Man," undeniable ear candy hit "According To You" and blues rock-mining album closer "How Do You Sleep?" Orianthi has a winning soprano and her astonishing guitar work impresses at every turn. Information: Facebook.com/Orianthi. 

Artist: The Rolling Stones

Title: Licked Live In NYC (Mercury Studios)

You might like if you enjoy: The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards 

Tell me more: Originally released in 2003 as an HBO special and as part of the Four Flicks package, The Rolling Stones' outstanding Licked Live In NYC has been fully restored and remastered with bonus material that shines a light on the legendary band's 40th Anniversary Tour; the legendary tour included 117 shows and was noteworthy for including the group's first-ever concert in Hong Kong. This title captures the Stones' Madison Square Garden show staged in January 2003; standout versions performed by the band include a fiery "Start Me Up," the melodic Mick Jagger track "Don't Stop," lively "Happy" featuring Keith Richards on lead vocals, magic "Gimme Shelter" (with Lisa Fischer trading vocals with Jagger), rowdy "You Got Me Rocking" and "Honky Tonk Woman" (the latter with guest Sheryl Crow) and fiery "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll" and "Brown Sugar." The DVD+2CD version (reviewed in this column) looks and sounds terrific; it includes previously-unreleased performances of "Start Me Up," "Tumbling Dice," "Gimme Shelter" and "Sympathy For The Devil," along with three bonus performances from Amsterdam and rehearsal footage. Licked Live In NYC is also available via SD Blu-ray+2CD (wit includes the additional 51-minute documentary "Tip Of The Tongue"), as a standalone 2CD and 3LP. Information: rollingstones.com.  

Artist: The Police

Title: The Police: Around The World Restored & Expanded (Mercury Studios)

Tell me more: With record sales of more than 75 million, The Police are one of the best-selling bands of all time. More importantly, the English rock troupe was one of the most groundbreaking bands to emerge in the late 1970s. In fact, no band has ever blended punk, reggae, jazz and indie rock with the craft and swagger displayed by Sting (lead vocals, bass guitar), Andy Summers (guitar, backing vocals) and Stewart Copeland (drums, percussion, backing vocals). Seemingly at the height of the trio's popularity — following the release of their final studio album (1983's chart-topping Synchronicity) — they disbanded in 1986.

Now the release of The Police: Around The World Restored & Expanded casts a welcome spotlight on the rise of The Police and their ambitious beginnings and truly meteoric rise. The band's first worldwide tour that took them to six continents in 1979 and 1980 is revisited via a remastered and expanded set available in several different configurations. The Blu-ray+CD version reviewed her is a revelation; the remastered audio and restored visual elements are terrific and the overall quality of the title is sure to please casual fans as well as audiophiles. Bonus features on the Blu-ray include complete live performances of "Walking On The Moon," Next To You," "Message In A Bottle" and "Born In The 50's."

Watching Sting, Summers and Copeland perform is great, and the mix of performance footage with behind-the-scenes candid scenes of the members exploring he Great Pyramids in Egypt, exploring ancient ruins in Greece, jamming with traditional instruments in India and one sequence of Summers wrestling in Japan are fun to be sure.

Information: www.thepolice.com and www.mercurystudios.co.

Artist: Rush

Title: Moving Pictures 40th Anniversary Deluxe (Mercury Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Rush, Triumph, progressive rock

Tell me more: Rush's best-known album, 1981's Moving Pictures, has been reissued in several first-rate configurations. Moving Pictures 40th Anniversary Deluxe edition reviewed here is a 3-disc version featuring the 2015 remaster of the original album (available on audio CD for the first time) and the complete, unreleased Toronto concert from March 25, 1981. Also included is a booklet with new illustrations by Hugh Syme, plus liner notes by Kim Thayil, Les Claypool, Taylor Hawkins, Bill Kelliher and Neil Sanderson. It's clear that disc 1 features stellar versions of many of the rock trio's most beloved originals ("Tom Sawyer," "Red Barchetta," "YYZ," "Limelight"), and the aforementioned concert features a terrific track listing sure to please fans of the band. The audio quality of the historic concert in the band's hometown of Toronto includes outstanding sounding versions of classics such as "Freewill," "Limelight," "The Trees," "YYZ," "Xanadu" and "Closer To The Heart." Information: Rush.com.

Artist: The Smithereens

Title: The Lost Album (Sunset Blvd. Records)

You might like if you enjoy:The Beatles, The Who, Buddy Holly

Tell me more: When Pat DiNizio passed away in December 2017, it appeared that the Smithereens' aptly-titled 2011 would serve as the final statement from the original lineup of the top-tier band. Fast forward to 2022 and the release of the truly miraculous The Lost Album (released on Sept. 23 via Sunset Blvd. Records). Recorded in the fall of 1993 when the New Jersey-spawned quartet was between record labels, the full-length set of songs is a bona fide masterwork featuring a dozen melodic rockers courtesy of the aforementioned DiNizio on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, lead guitarist Jim Babjak, bassist Mike Mesaros and drummer Dennis Diken. The parade of great originals includes the tender "Dear Abby," melodic rocker "A World Apart" (bolstered by an especially tuneful guitar solo), heavy "Stop Bringing Me Down," fiery garage rocker "Monkey Man," Beatlesque "Face the World With Pride" and confessional closer "All Through The Night." My favorite track on the album is the wistful and haunting "Don't Look Down," with DiNizio's signature baritone probing self-doubt with the stylish candor that fueled many of the Smithereens' most beloved classics. Information: OfficialSmithereens.com.

Artist: Hank Williams

Title: I'm Gonna Sing: The Mother's Best Gospel Radio Recordings (BMG)

You might like if you enjoy: Hank Williams, Hank Snow, Gram Parsons

Tell me more: The 2022 Hank Williams collection I'm Gonna Sing: The Mother's Best Gospel Radio Recordings marks a perfect chance to discover (or rediscover) the art of Hank Williams. Although he died when he was only 29, Williams remains one of the most significant and influential American singer-songwriters of the 20th century even nearly 70 years after his passing. The track listing on I'm Gonna Sing never falters, with harmonies-adorned pre-20th century hymns ("I Am Bound For The Promised Land," "That Beautiful Home," "The Blind Child's Prayer"), early 20th century hymnals ("The Old Country Church," "I'll Fly Away," "I'll Have A New Life"), black gospel ("When God Dips His Love In My Heart," "When the Saints Go Marching In," "Precious Lord, Take My Hand"), 1940s material ("Thy Burdens Are Greater Than Mine," "Searching For A Soldier's Grave") and Williams originals ("I Saw the Light," "Jesus Died For Me," "I'm Gonna Sing," "Jesus Remembered Me") collectively showcasing Williams' deep and life-long connection with gospel and religious music. The audio 2-CD digipak version reviewed here comes with an informative 12-page booklet that includes detailed liner notes by Williams biographer Colin Escott. The set has also been released via a three-LP triple-gatefold album pressed on 140g vinyl, marking the first time these recordings have been issued on vinyl. The 40 tracks recorded at the dawn of the 1950s sound fantastic; the collection was produced by Cheryl Pawelski while the recordings were restored and mastered by Michael Graves. Information: HankWilliams.com.

Artist: The Zombies

Title: The Zombies - Live From Studio Two (Red House Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Zombies 

Tell me more: Concertgoers attending any of The Zombies recent tour dates will want to pick up a copy of The Zombies - Live From Studio Two, a CD+DVD release that features the group's live performance captured at Abbey Road Studios in London on Sept. 18, 2021. The only performance staged by the British rock group in 2021, the 90-minute performance shines as both a concert film and audio-only affair. At the Sept. 18, 2021 concert, the quintet thrilled with a mix of enduring classics, artful covers, deep cuts as well as the live premiere of new songs set to be included on an as-of-yet untitled album likely to be released sometime this year. Led by founding members Rod Argent (keyboards, vocals) and Colin Blunstone (lead vocals), the group also includes guitarist-backing vocalist Tom Toomey, drummer Steve Rodford and bassist-backing vocalist Søren Koch. The five members have a strong chemistry and together display top-tier musicianship and resplendent harmonies bringing the Zombies signature masterful style blending classic rock, baroque pop, jazz and blues to life throughout their 90-minute performance. Blunstone's vocals defy time, and his soaring tenor remains a true wonder. The release is also available for purchase on the group's website. Information: TheZombiesMusic.com. 

DUAL RELEASE  

Artists: Phil Lynott, Thin Lizzy

Titles: "Phil Lynott Songs For While I'm Away"; "Thin Lizzy The Boys Are Back In Town Live At The Sydney Opera House October 1978" (Mercury Studios)

You might like if you enjoy: Thin Lizzy, Gary Moore, music documentary films

Tell me more: Regardless if you are a hardcore or casual fan, or know very little about Irish singer-songwriter-bassist Phil Lynott of Thin Lizzy fame, a wonderful new dual title marks the perfect chance to learn more about the groundbreaking artist. Available as a Blu-ray+DVD+CD (reviewed here) or as a 2xDVD+CD, Mercury Studios' release of "Phil Lynott Songs For While I'm Away" and "Thin Lizzy The Boys Are Back In Town Like At The Sydney Opera House October 1978" is one of the year's most important classic rock-minded titles. "Phil Lynott Songs For While I'm Away" is a compelling feature-length documentary that explores the rich life and music of Lynott, a black boy raised in Dublin who became one of the Emerald Isle's most beloved music artists. Written and directed by Emer Reynolds, the film uses film footage, new and historic interviews, and Lynott's memorable songs to chronicle his life (sadly, he passed away at the age of 36 in January 1986). Among the notables who share insights into Lynott are bassist Adam Clayton (U2), Huey Lewis (Huey Lewis & The News), James Hatfield (Metallica) members of Thin Lizzy, and Lynott's wife and two daughters. "Thin Lizzy The Boys Are Back In Town Live At The Sydney Opera House October 1978" was previously released via VHS, Laserdisc and DVD, but the new version on this title presents the concert with cleaned up video and remixed audio from multi-track recordings. Additionally, five songs from the performance never-before-seen are among the bonus features. Thin Lizzy is seen in a rousing performance with Lynott, guitarists Scott Gorham and Gary Moore and drummer Mark Nauseef delivering powerful versions of "Jailbreak," "Bad Reputation," "Waiting For An Alibi," "The Boys Are Back In Town" and other winning originals. Information: MercuryStudios.co or ThinLizzyOfficial.com. 

 

Robert Kinsler