Blu-ray Roundup: The Beatles, Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd, Todd Rundgren

Music lovers with Blu-ray players have plenty of reasons to celebrate, including the release of a trio of fantastic new titles available now.

Title: Meeting The Beatles In India (Unobstructed View)

You might like if you enjoy: The Beatles, George Harrison, John Lennon, music documentary films

Tell me more: The release of the Peter Jackson documentary "Get Back" in 2021 focused an in-depth look at the monumental talent and undeniable chemistry of the Beatles and the British band's otherworldly ability to create some of the greatest songs of the rock era. Now the release of Canadian filmmaker Paul Saltzman's "Meeting The Beatles In India" provides a similarly compelling look at the Fab Four — this time focusing on their mythical time spent in India a year before the "Get Back" sessions. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the documentary finds Saltzman vividly sharing his memories of his time befriending John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr at the Beatles Ashram (also known as Chaurasi Kutia) located in Rishikesh, a city in Northern India. The short period that the Beatles spent in India resulted in the writing of 48 songs in approximately 48 days, including favorites that fill the band's 1968 album The Beatles (better known as "The White Album"). In addition to his first person account of his time with the Beatles, Saltzman's amazing photographs of the Beatles add depth to the film, as do his reflections on his own spiritual journey that fatefully led him to study transcendental meditation alongside the Beatles with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The documentary features interviews with film director David Lynch, pre-eminent Beatles historian Mark Lewisohn, Pattie Boyd (married to George Harrison at the time of the trip to India) and even the real "Bungalow Bill." The Blu-ray edition of "Meeting The Beatles In India" includes 57 minutes of extra scenes, as well as the trailer for the 79-minute documentary. A must-see for fans of the Beatles. Information: unobstructedview.com or thebeatlesinindia.com.

Title: Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd (Mercury Studios)

You might like if you enjoy: Pink Floyd, David Bowie, David Gilmour, music documentary films

Tell me more: Nearly 20 years after his death, Pink Floyd founder Syd Barrett remains a tragic figure as mythical as he is influential. A compelling newly-released documentary — "Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd" — provides a deep dive into Barrett's life as a musical and visual artist; the Roddy Bogawa and Storm Thorgerson-directed film also explores the demons that derailed Barrett's professional career and happiness. Through a wealth of previously-unseen photographs and film footage as well as new interviews with the surviving members of Pink Floyd (Roger Waters, David Gilmour and Nick Mason), Barrett's childhood friends, ex-girlfriends and contemporary musicians, the story of Barrett's life is presented with artful grace and candor. Barrett's creative genius and early success is sadly matched by his breakdown, exit from Pink Floyd and disappearance. The two-disc DVD+Blu-ray version reviewed here includes an exclusive poster designed by StormStudios. Bonus materials include commentary of the film with Bogawa, Julius Beltrame and Rupert Truman, as well as a 2007 performance of Pink Floyd's 1967 single "Arnold Layne" with Gilmour, Richard Wright and Mason, and a 2006 performance of that same Barrett-penned classic featuring Gilmour and David Bowie in a performance at The Royal Albert Hall. Information: mercurystudios.co. 

Artist: Todd Rundgren

Title: Liars — Live (Cleopatra Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Todd Rundgren, Utopia, Nazz, Thomas Dolby, Peter Gabriel

Tell me more: Recorded live at the Egg Performing Arts Center in Albany, New York on June 9, 2004, the new Blu-ray concert film "Liars — Live" is a powerful showcase for the formidable talents of groundbreaking singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist/producer Todd Rundgren. Backed by a top-tier band (including his Utopia bandmates Kasim Sulton, Jesse Gress, and Prairie Prince), the 160-minute concert focuses on material from Rundgren's return-to-form 2004 album Liars and beloved favorites from across his wide-ranging career. Early standouts include the synth-swept opener "Truth," introspective rocker "Buffalo Grass," electronica "Mammon," and sumptuous R&B-tinged version of "God Said." The energy of the marathon-length concert film continues with the jazzy "Soul Brother," soulful ballad "Sweet," dance styled "Love Science," beautiful "Hello It's Me" and gospel saturated closer "Just One Victory." Rundgren and company bring bona fide chills with a potent take on the George Harrison-penned Beatles classic "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." Produced, edited and mixed by Rundgren, "Liars — Live" captures the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer at the top of his powers. The Blu-ray includes bonus trailers, a slide show, Japan video diary and more. Information: cleorecs.com.

Robert Kinsler

Robert Kinsler's Favorite Reissues, Live Albums and Special Editions of 2018

There is little doubt that 2018 was an amazing year for those who love deluxe editions and reissues, and special concert recordings (including those audio-only titles, as well as multi-format releases that came via Blu-ray, DVD and digital). Here are my 15 favorites I heard during a fantastic year...

Artists: The Bangles, The Three O'Clock, The Dream Syndicate, Rain Parade
Title: 3 X 4 (Yep Roc Records)
Tell me more: Los Angeles' so-called "Paisley Underground" was an exciting genre blending garage rock, jangly power pop and psychedelic rock that emerged at the dawn of the 1980s. The movement's best-known proponents – the Bangles, Rain Parade, the Dream Syndicate and the Three O'Clock – have joined forces on a must-hear collection where each group performs one song from each of the other three outfits – hence the clever title 3 X 4. Every cut on the 12-track disc is fantastic, capturing the individual talents of the groups and strength of the songwriting. The Dream Syndicate brings an almost Neil Young and Crazy Horse muscular approach to Rain Parade's "You Are My Friend." Rain Parade brings a Beatlesque touch to Three O'Clock's atmospheric "As Real As Real." Susanna Hoffs' shimmering lead vocals help propel the Bangles' lovely take on Rain Parade's dreamy "Talking In My Sleep." The Dream Syndicate offers up a rollicking take on the Bangles' classic "Hero Take a Fall," the version bolstered by the lush harmonies of Vicki Peterson and Linda Pitmon. The melancholy-drenched "Real World" finds Rain Parade bringing new depth to the Bangles favorite. 3 X 4 is one of the most glorious releases of 2018. Information: YepRoc.com.

Artist: The Beatles
Title: "The Beatles" White Album / Super Deluxe edition (Capitol Records)
Tell me more: This writer considers The Beatles' 1968 album best known as the "White Album" the greatest rock album of all time, so the release of the six-disc Super Deluxe 50th Anniversary edition earlier this year is likely an essential addition to any music lover's collection. The diverse and intoxicating range of brilliant songs include the eloquent "Blackbird," sweeping "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," blistering "Helter Skelter," poignant "Julia" and ethereal "Long Long Long." In addition, it features Ringo Starr's first solo contribution as both singer and songwriter, the wistful "Don't Pass Me By." The inclusion of the acoustic "Escher" demos is a revelation, showcasing early and sparse takes on many of the "White Album" classics. For more casual lovers of the Fab Four, a three-disc version is also available. Information: TheBeatles.com.

Artist: Big Star
Title: Live at Lafayette's Music Room (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: For long-time fans and new followers of Big Star, the release of the Memphis' band's Live at Lafayette's Music Room is a true revelation. Recorded in the uncertain aftermath after co-founding member Chris Bell had left the pioneering power pop outfit in January 1973, singer-guitarist Alex Chilton, bassist Andy Hummel and drummer-singer Jody Stephens were captured during an opening slot for Houston R&B ensemble Archie Bell & the Drells. The live recording has been newly-remastered from Grammy-winning Michael Graves (the concert set was previously only available as disc 4 on the Grammy Award-winning Keep an Eye on the Sky box set released in 2009). Highlights on Live at Lafayette's Music Room abound; a rollicking "When My Baby's Beside Me," a raucous "She's A Mover" complete with extended fiery guitar work from Chilton, a lovely "The Ballad of El Goodo" and artfully reworked covers of classics from The Flying Burrito Brothers, The Kinks, Todd Rundgren and T. Rex to name a few. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: The Choir
Title: Artifact: The Unreleased Album (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: The 10 tracks featured on the Choir's aptly-titled Artifact: The Unreleased Album were recorded back in 1969 and each bristle with a timeless energy and creative approach that will never be dated. Things begin with the stirring British Invasion-spirited "Anyway I Can" and quickly extend with sonic seams that include psychedelic (especially "Ladybug" and the instrumental "For Eric"), as well as art-, folk- and melodic- rock styles. The rollicking "If These Are Men," the lovely baroque-styled "Have I No Love to Offer," the majestic "It's All Over" and vertiginous "Boris' Lament" could have all been radio hits at the time. The Choir was among the leading artists in Cleveland during the 1960s, and several of the musicians in the quintet would soon go on to help form the Raspberries. How wonderful it is that Artifact: The Unreleased Album has found new life almost 50 years after its creation. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Gene Clark
Title: Gene Clark Sings for You (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: Omnivore Recordings has recently released previously unheard post-Byrds recordings from Gene Clark. The good news for fans of the Byrds' early material as well as of Clark's solo work is this is an exciting new collection (Gene Clark Sings for You) that celebrates and expands the legacy of an important artist whose groundbreaking solo work was often overlooked in his lifetime (he died at the age of 46 in May 1991). Clark was the principal songwriter in the Byrds from 1964 to early 1966, writing classics such as "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better," "Set You Free This Time" and "She Don't Care About Time." Comprised of tracks recorded in 1967, Gene Clark Sings for You explore folk rock with beauty and insight. The opener "On Her Own" features Clark's signature vocal styling and taps into a wistful '60s sound. The follow-up "Past Tense" is even stronger, an upbeat folk rocker that captures the magic of his work with the Byrds but also foreshadows the alt-country movement of that latter part of the '60s and early '70s. Other nuggets on the album include the wistful "That's Alright by Me" and baroque-flavored "Down on the Pier." In addition to the eight actual tracks pulled from the "Gene Clark Sings for You" acetate in the aftermath of his departure from the Byrds, there are an additional five songs from another 1967 acetate given to the Rose Garden for that band's consideration (Omnivore have simultaneously released their 1968 album; it is reviewed later in this column). A final track, a lovely acoustic demo of "Till Today," features Clark running through the song for the Rose Garden. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Thomas Dolby
Title: Hyperactive (BMG)
Tell me more: As Thomas Dolby prepared to set out on a rare tour last summer fans of the groundbreaking English musician, producer, author and university professor were rewarded with a two-disc audio CD collection Hyperactive. Casual fans may know Dolby best for his timeless hits "She Blinded Me With Science" and "Hyperactive" but this collection focused renewed light on Dolby's master strengths as a recording artist. The range of material on the essential set includes the buoyant "Hyperactive!", New Wave-flavored "Europa and the Pirate Twins," the lovely synthesizer foray "Valley of the Mind's Eye" and funky "Airhead — and that's just on the first disc. Moving on to disc two includes the bewitching "One of Our Submarines," the genre-defying "The Flat Earth," the soulful ballad "Beauty of a Dream," and melodic "Close But No Cigar." Information: ThomasDolby.com.

Artist: The Kinks
Title: The Kinks Are The Village Green Preservation Society (Sanctuary Records)
Tell me more: The 50th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of the Kinks' 1968 masterwork The Kinks Are The Village Green Preservation Society is amazing. It features both stereo and mono mixes from the HD masters, bonus tracks and a previously-unreleased new single titled "Time Song." The two-disc audio CD version reviewed here also comes with a 20-page booklet and extensive liner notes. Lead singer-songwriter Ray Davies penned a slew of outstanding nostalgia-drenched songs exploring life and death, growing up and growing old, and wove those works together via a mix of musical styles that work perfectly. Indeed, pop-rock ("Starstruck"), psychedelia ("Wicket Annabella"), blues ("Last Of The Steam-Powered Trains"), chamber pop ("Big Sky," "Village Green"), and an intoxicating dose of British Music hall ("Sitting By The Riverside," "All Of My Friends Were There") are among the styles used by the Kinks on the wide-ranging title. Casual rock fans who only know the Kinks via the band's radio hits should consider delving into this wondrous title that was sadly overlooked at the time of its release in November 1968. Information: abkco.com.

Artist: Lone Justice
Title: The Western Tapes, 1983 (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: It's clear listening to the glorious 6-track EP The Western Tapes, 1983 featuring groundbreaking country roots rockers Lone Justice's earliest demo recordings that the band was decades ahead of its time. The strength of these early tracks – five of which are previously unissued – led the troupe on a glorious path to being signed to a major label and releasing several memorable LPs later that decade. The original lineup of Lone Justice (singer-guitarist Maria McKee, lead guitarist-vocalist Ryan Hedgecock, drummer Don Willens and bassist Dave Harrington) carved out a handful of songs that sound as potent today as they did 35 years ago; the rollicking "Working Late," aching "Don't Toss Us Away" and no-holds-barred "The Train" are among this writer's favorites on the disc. The stylish package is excellent and includes liner notes penned by producer Marvin Etzioni, who is spot-on when he writes "I believed we were creating a 21st century country band."  Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Buck Owens
Title: Country Singer's Prayer (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: More than 40 years after it was recorded, Buck Owens' last Capitol Records album has finally been released. Recorded in 1975, Country Singer's Prayer was never released by the label – likely because of widespread indifference to the title of the single of the same name. Listening to the stellar expanded edition of Country Singer's Prayer issued by Omnivore Recordings in 2018 is to wonder what the heck Capitol executives were thinking 43 years ago; the album is a stunning reflection of Owen's groundbreaking Bakersfield country music (an inspiration and influence on artists ranging from Ringo Starr and Gram Parsons to Dwight Yoakam). In addition to the album's original track listing, the new release features both B-sides from Owens' final two singles from the 1975-unissued LP. Fans of Owen's authentic country-western brew will be swept up by the disc's riches; dance-minded material ("John Law," "The Battle of New Orleans") and potent ballads (notably "A Different Kind of Sad" and "How's Everything") make this a rewarding listen from start to finish. The release is bolstered by new liner notes by Scott B. Bomar with interviews with long-time Buckaroos piano player Jim Shaw and Robert John Jones ("Rocky Topp"), who together co-wrote the memorable single "Country Singer's Prayer." Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Tom Petty
Title: An American Treasure (Reprise Records)
Tell me more: Filled with previously-unreleased studio songs, live cuts and spellbinding alternate takes of beloved favorites taken from throughout his career, the aptly-titled An American Treasure' captures the singular sound that Tom Petty carved out over forty-plus years. The four-disc set is broken down by decade with cuts from the 1970s, '80s, '90s and 2000s featured. Things kick off with the Byrds-flavored "Surrender," recorded by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers in 1976. Listening to the track is to be instantly transported back to the exuberance of the ensemble's early days. Live performances of "Listen To Her Heart" (from April 1977), and "Anything That's Rock 'n' Roll and "Breakdown" (from a November 1977 set) also capture that spirit. The power of this collection thrills with each cut, and across the expansive set. The soulful "Lost in Your Eyes" (from 1975), power pop-meets-psychedelic album track "You and I Will Meet Again (1991), lush "Crawling Back To You (1994) and a live version of "Southern Accents" are among the super cuts on this 63-track collection. My favorite track is the previously-unreleased melodic rocker "Gainesville," an autobiographical track recorded in early 1998. Information: TomPetty.com.

Artist: The Rose Garden
Title: A Trip Through the Garden: The Rose Garden Collection (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Gene Clark, the Hollies, Sonny & Cher
Tell me more: Just listening to the expanded reissue of the Rose Garden's eponymous album is to hear why the best music from the 1960s continues to resonant so strongly a half century later. A Trip Through the Garden: The Rose Garden Collection shines a bright light on the Rose Garden, a troupe best known for their hit single "Next Plane to London." The group's full talents are on display on the expansive 26-track collection issued last summer. John Noreen's nuanced 12-track guitar adorns the pretty "I'm Only Second," while everywhere the lead vocals of Diana DeRoseand James Groshong entice the listener. Beyond the sterling original material there are memorable covers of material by the celebrated likes of Gene Clark ("Long Time"), Neil Young ("Down to the Wire"), Bob Dylan ("She Belongs to Me") and the Byrds ("So You Want to be a Rock 'n' Roll Star"). There is also an outstanding 20-page, full illustrated booklet that further completes a complete re-introduction to the Los Angeles-spawned Rose Garden. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Bruce Springsteen
Title: Springsteen On Broadway (Columbia)
Tell me more: The audio companion to the acclaimed film currently showing on Netflix, Bruce Springsteen's Springsteen On Broadway features the complete audio recording of the Netflix special. Running the full length of two audio CDs (or also available as a 4 LP vinyl set), Springsteen On Broadway is a mix of intimate performances and spoken stories leading up to the presentation of the songs. The winner of a Tony Award, Academy Award and 20 Grammy Awards, Springsteen brings the rich mix of songcraft and storytelling featured in his autobiography "Born to Run" to his performance captured at the Walter Kerr Theatre featured on Springsteen On Broadway. There is a mix of humor, wit and life's lessons that compel the recording at every turn. Songs include "Growing Up," "My Hometown," "The Promised Land" and "Born to Run." Information: BruceSpringsteen.net.

Artist: Styx
Title: The Mission — CD + Blu-ray (UMe)
You might like if you enjoy: Styx, Boston
Tell me more: When Styx released The Mission on June 16, 2017, few saw the album coming. The band's first new studio album in 14 years, The Mission was a creative and commercial triumph. Among the notable songs featured on "The Mission" are the rocking "Gone Gone Gone," expansive "Radio Silence" the Neo-classical "Khedive" and anthemic "The Outpost." Fast forward to 2018 and Styx rewarded rock fans with a deluxe two-disc edition that includes the album on audio CD and a second Blu-ray Disc loaded with essential content. Not only is listening to the immersive 5.1 Surround Sound mix a great experience but there are stellar visualizations for each of the album's 14 songs based on the original album artwork. Among the bonus content on the Blu-ray Disc are music videos that add insight into the concept album and its creation. "Gone Gone Gone" is featured as both a concert-minded video and a secondary video created by NASA using the space agency's considerable resources, and a terrific live version of "Radio Silence" performed in Syracuse, NY.  Also included is "Making The Mission" where Tommy Shaw discusses the making of The Mission as a 5.1 mix (he even showcases some of the specific guitars he used on the album). Information: StyxWorld.com.

Artist: Henry Townsend
Title: Mule (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: Armed with a potent baritone voice and keyboard and guitar skills to match, Henry Townsend's talents shine across the expanded reissue of his 1980 album Mule. The late bluesman was born in 1909 and his spirit and sound emerge as fresh and enthralling today as when the disc was recorded nearly 40 years ago. Townsend's recording career dated back to the early 1930s and Mule marked an effort to put Townsend front and center on a full-length recording. The album is worth discovering, with the artist artfully pounding away on keyboards and plucking on guitar across the disc. As detailed in the album liner notes, Townsend would improvise while recording; the result is the performance of tracks that are vibrant and fully unique. The Delta-flavored "Tears Come Rollin' Down," rollicking piano-anchored "It's A Hard Road To Travel," spot on "Talkin' Guitar Blues" and the joyful romp "The Other Night" (a bonus track) ring out with an immediacy and power that are as much a tribute to Townsend as American blues music itself. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: The Zombies
Title: Greatest Hits (Varèse Sarabande Records)
Tell me more: The Zombies were an early member of the British Invasion and the new completely-remastered collection Greatest Hits showcases why the English quintet is bound for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. Completely remastered, the new 16-track Greatest Hits set features many of the band's most beloved songs. Early hits such as "She's Not There" and "Tell Her No" as well as late '60s gems (notably "Time of The Season" and "This Will Be Our Year" from the group's masterwork Odessey and Oracle) are here; of equal interest are the terrific selections that expand the legacy of The Zombies including the soulful "Whenever You're Ready," intoxicating "I Love You" (still a key part of the band's concert sets), the cinematic thriller "Just Out of Reach" and the stirring "The Way I Feel Inside" (the latter a mostly a cappella track featuring lead singer Colin Blunstone). The colorful booklet includes outstanding liner notes penned by Andrew Sandoval that add insight about each of the songs included on the outstanding collection. Information: VareseSarabande.com.



Robert Kinsler

Music Worth Buying episode: "Great Greatest Hits"

Watch the latest episode of Music Worth Buying where TJR and Robert Kinsler discuss some new collections they affectionately describe as “Great Greatest Hits.” Among the artists whose collections are highlighted are The Zombies, Thomas Dolby, A Flock of Seagulls and Erasure:

Concerts Aplenty: Psychedelic Furs, Thomas Dolby, Earth, Wind & Fire

Richard Butler of the Psychedelic Furs greets fans at Pacific
Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa on Thursday, July 19, 2018.
(Photo by Miguel Vasconcellos, OC Fair & Event Center)

My schedule has been decidedly hectic for the past several weeks, so I haven't had time to check in and share news on a trio of noteworthy shows I've caught dating back to July 19.

Catching the Psychedelic Furs live has always been on my "bucket list" so I can report catching the band at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa on July 19 was worth the wait. Lead singer Richard Butler proved to be an interesting and energetic frontman and some of his mannerisms reminded me of David Bowie. The six-member band delivered a mix of enduring hits ("Love My Way," "The Ghost in You," "Pretty in Pink," "Heartbreak Beat," "Heaven") and lesser-known gems. 

Cy Curnin of the Fixx performs at
Pacific Amphitheatre on Thursday, July 19, 2018.
(Photo by Miguel Vasconcellos, OC Fair & Event Center)

Two of my favorite other bands of the era also performed on the bill, including Los Angeles-spawned quartet X and alternative rockers the Fixx. I've seen X and the Fixx a number of times on previous occasions dating back to the 1980s and both bands continue to deliver powerful shows built around songs that stand the test of time. In particular Fixx classics such as "Saved by Zero," "Red Skies" and "Stand or Fall" rank among the best rockers of the 1980s.

All three bands were fantastic and this was truly a memorable night.


Make sure to check out writer George A. Paul's full-length review of that show here.

Thomas Dolby in concert and conversation at Largo at the Coronet.
Photo courtesy of Roland

Fast forward to July 25, 2018 and only my second-ever chance to catch groundbreaking English composer/singer-songwriter/keyboardist Thomas Dolby at Largo at the Coronet. 

This was an incredible two-part show where Dolby would have audience members reach into a hat and pull out small ping pong balls with the names of some of his most beloved material. Dolby would then tackle each of those songs, discussing the song and its creation and then performing the song solo. A very special night that included arresting versions of classic originals including "Hyperactive," "Europa and the Pirate Twins," "One Of Our Submarines" and "She Blinded Me With Science."

To read a full-length report on this special performance, see writer Donna Balancia's review on the California Rocker site here.

Earth, Wind & Fire performing at the Pacific Amphitheatre on
Friday, July 27, 2018.
Photo courtesy of the Orange County Fair.

Finally, last night (July 27, 2018I got to catch Earth, Wind & Fire at the Pacific Amphitheatre. While the audience seated around us was mostly awful (and generally far more interested in taking selfies, going on beer runs and chatting than listening to the group), the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famers performed more than 90 minutes in a flawless performance. I am always astounded how original the group is, having masterfully forged a long list of hits with a blend of R&B, funk, soul, disco, rock, pop and Afro pop sounds. 

Opening with the infectious 1975 hit "Sing a Song," it was clear the dynamics of the popular track were enhanced by virtuoso skills of the 12 musicians on stage, including a great three-man horn section. Many other hits and deep cuts followed, including the aptly-titled "Shining Star," a stellar cover of the Beatles' "Got to Get You into my Life," the shimmering "Fantasy" (this writer's favorite track of the night), "September," "Boogie Wonderland" and many more.

The band still features three of its key members from its classic period including singer-percussionist Philip Bailey, percussionist Ralph Johnson and bassist Verdine White (sadly group founder Maurice White passed away in February 2016). Bailey's signature falsetto vocals continue to be a wonder, as evidenced by soaring performances of the ballads "Reasons" and "After the Love Has Gone." And there is simply no way to slow down Verdine White, who is one of the most fun musicians to watch as he bounds around the stage and works his bass guitar with an infectious passion.

Now, if only the magic of the band's performance could have cast a spell on the capacity crowd to connect with EW&F like our group did!

Robert Kinsler

Legendary Artists Celebrated on New Collections

Some of music's most beloved and groundbreaking artists are celebrated on a number of new releases.

Artist: Thomas Dolby
Title: Hyperactive (BMG)
You might like if you enjoy: Thomas Dolby, Beck, David Bowie
Tell me more: As Thomas Dolby prepares to go on a rare tour this summer, fans of the groundbreaking English musician, producer, author and university professor are being rewarded with a two-disc audio CD collection Hyperactive. Casual fans may know Dolby best for his timeless hits "She Blinded Me With Science" and "Hyperactive" but this collection is sure to focus renewed light on Dolby's master strengths as a recording artist. The range of material on the essential set includes the buoyant "Hyperactive!", New Wave-flavored "Europa and the Pirate Twins," the lovely synthesizer foray "Valley of the Mind's Eye" and funky "Airhead — and that's just on the first disc. Moving on to disc two includes the bewitching "One of Our Submarines," the genre-defying "The Flat Earth," the soulful ballad "Beauty of a Dream," and melodic "Close But No Cigar." Dolby is going on a short summer tour (titled "An Evening of Music and Storytelling with Thomas Dolby") including a date at Largo at the Coronet in Los Angeles on July 25, an opening spot for Blondie at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on July 27, and a string of dates on the East Coast in late July and early August. The tour is sponsored in part by Roland Corp., manufacturer of the world's most iconic synthesizers, guitar pedals and drum machines. Information: ThomasDolby.com.

Artist: The Jayhawks
Title: Back Roads and Abandoned Motels (Legacy Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: The Jayhawks, Dawes
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: Buddy Guy
Title: The Blues is Alive and Well (RCA)
You might like if you enjoy: Buddy Guy, the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Muddy Waters
Tell me more: Buddy Guy has little left to prove. The celebrated bluesman — who will turn 82 in late July — has inspired and influenced everyone from Jimi Hendrix and Jeff Beck to the Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton while in recent years thrilling large crowds while performing at high-profile festivals and sold-out venues around the globe. On Guy's terrific new album The Blues is Alive and Well, Guy is joined by a parade of legendary guests as he tears through a 15-track disc of inspired Chicago blues. What is especially impressive about the new disc is how even when joined by bona fide greats, Guy's infectious personality and stellar skills as vocalist and guitarist elevate everyone around him. Take the slow blues burner "Cognac" where guitar greats Keith Richards and Jeff Beck join Guy, the interplay of three fret masters serves the song and is allowed to play out even while Kevin McKendree's work on the piano also shines. On the acoustic "Blue No More," Guy and guest James Bay (adding guitar and vocals) offer up one of the most tender and traditional tracks on the disc. On "You Did the Crime," Mick Jagger adds to the proceedings with some masterful blues harmonica work. Other standouts include the speedy "Guilty As Charged," soulful "The Blues is Alive and Well" (featuring the artful work of the Muscle Shoals Horns section) and the infectious "Bad Day." Guy will headline at several venues in Southern California later this summer, including at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018. Information: BuddyGuy.net.

Artist: Gene Clark
Title: Gene Clark Sings for You (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: The Byrds, Gram Parsons
Tell me more: Omnivore Recordings has recently released previously unheard post-Byrds recordings from Gene Clark. The good news for fans of the Byrds' early material as well as of Clark's solo work is this is an exciting new collection (Gene Clark Sings for You) that celebrates and expands the legacy of an important artist whose groundbreaking solo work was often overlooked in his lifetime (he died at the age of 46 in May 1991). Clark was the principal songwriter in the Byrds from 1964 to early 1966, writing classics such as "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better," "Set You Free This Time" and "She Don't Care About Time." Comprised of tracks recorded in 1967, Gene Clark Sings for You explore folk rock with beauty and insight. The opener "On Her Own" features Clark's signature vocal styling and taps into a wistful '60s sound. The follow-up "Past Tense" is even stronger, an upbeat folk rocker that captures the magic of his work with the Byrds but also foreshadows the alt-country movement of that latter part of the '60s and early '70s. Other nuggets on the album include the wistful "That's Alright by Me" and baroque-flavored "Down on the Pier." In addition to the eight actual tracks pulled from the "Gene Clark Sings for You" acetate in the aftermath of his departure from the Byrds, there are an additional five songs from another 1967 acetate given to the Rose Garden for that band's consideration (Omnivore have simultaneously released their 1968 album; it is reviewed later in this column). A final track, a lovely acoustic demo of "Till Today," features Clark running through the song for the Rose Garden. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: The Rose Garden
Title: A Trip Through the Garden: The Rose Garden Collection (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Gene Clark, the Hollies, Sonny & Cher
Tell me more: Just listening to the expanded reissue of the Rose Garden's eponymous album is to hear why the best music from the 1960s continues to resonant so strongly a half century later. A Trip Through the Garden: The Rose Garden Collection shines a bright light on the Rose Garden, a troupe best known for their hit single "Next Plane to London." The group's full talents are on display on the expansive 26-track collection issued earlier this summer. John Noreen's nuanced 12-track guitar adorns the pretty "I'm Only Second," while everywhere the lead vocals of Diana DeRose and James Groshong entice the listener. Beyond the sterling original material there are memorable covers of material by the celebrated likes of Gene Clark ("Long Time"), Neil Young ("Down to the Wire"), Bob Dylan ("She Belongs to Me") and the Byrds ("So You Want to be a Rock 'n' Roll Star"). There is also an outstanding 20-page, full illustrated booklet that further completes a complete re-introduction to the Los Angeles-spawned Rose Garden. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Styx
Title: The Mission — CD + Blu-ray (UMe)
You might like if you enjoy: Styx, Boston
Tell me more: When Styx released The Mission on June 16, 2017, few saw the album coming. The band's first new studio album in 14 years, The Mission was a creative and commercial triumph. Among the notable songs featured on "The Mission" are the rocking "Gone Gone Gone," expansive "Radio Silence" the Neo-classical "Khedive" and anthemic "The Outpost." Now, Styx has further rewarded rock fans with a deluxe two-disc edition that includes the album on audio CD and a second Blu-ray Disc loaded with essential content. Not only is listening to the immersive 5.1 Surround Sound mix a great experience, but there are stellar visualizations for each of the album's 14 songs based on the original album artwork. Among the bonus content on the Blu-ray Disc are music videos that add insight into the concept album and its creation. "Gone Gone Gone" is featured as both a concert-minded video and a secondary video created by NASA using the space agency's considerable resources, and a terrific live version of "Radio Silence" performed in Syracuse, NY.  Also included is "Making The Mission" where Tommy Shaw discusses the making of The Mission as a 5.1 mix (he even showcases some of the specific guitars he used on the album). Information: StyxWorld.com.



Robert Kinsler

Thomas Dolby: Music & Storytelling, July 25, Largo/L.A.--new BMG career 2-CD compilation

Here is an exciting roundup about groundbreaking artist...

BALTIMORE, Md. — Thomas Dolby — musician, video director, author, and now a university professor — is set for a short U.S. tour in July and August 2018 with a show titled An Evening of Music and Storytelling With Thomas Dolby. 

 

The tour coincides with the July release of his 2-CD greatest hits collection Hyperactive, coming July 27, 2018 as part of BMG’s Masters Collection series. 

 

In this intimate solo performance, Thomas will allow members of the audience to randomly pick songs from his 30-year catalog. He will tell the story behind the genesis of each, while simultaneously deconstructing its musical parts, synth sounds, and lyrics. The resulting music will be output from his laptop and keyboards, and projected on a screen behind him, along with personal photos and memorabilia. Each performance will therefore be a slightly different audiovisual experience, with surprises each night.

 

Aside from his successful solo hits such as “She Blinded Me With Science” and “Hyperactive,” Dolby is known as a synthesist and producer for the likes of David Bowie, Roger Waters, Stevie Wonder, Foreigner, Def Leppard, George Clinton, and Joni Mitchell. His acclaimed memoir The Speed of Sound (Flatiron/Macmillan) was an Amazon Bestseller in its category, and a 2016 NPR Book of the Year.

 

“These shows will give me an opportunity to expand on some of the stories in my book — without pulling any punches!” said Dolby. “I’ll be unstitching the songs, as I’ve found audiences love to get a peek ‘under the hood’ and into an artist’s creative methods."

 

Since completing 12 years as Music Director of the TED Conferences in 2012, Prof. Dolby has been teaching music at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md. This Fall he will launch a new undergraduate degree course at the Peabody Institute, focusing on music composition and 3D sound design for virtual and augmented reality — the first of its kind at a major U.S. university.

 

The tour is sponsored in part by Roland Corp., manufacturer of the world’s most iconic synthesizers, guitar pedals and drum machines.

 

Tour dates:

Wed. July 25 LOS ANGELES, CA  Largo at the Coronet

Fri., July 27  LOS ANGELES, CA  Microsoft Theater (supporting Blondie)

Mon. July 30 ALEXANDRIA, VA (DC)The Birchmere

Tues. July 31 ANNAPOLIS, MD Ram’s Head

Wed. Aug 1 SELLERSVILLE, PA (PHILADELPHIA)Sellersville Theater

Fri. Aug 3  NEW YORK, NY The Cutting Room

Sat. Aug 4 NATICK, MA Natick TCAN Center for the Arts

Sun. Aug 5  NEW HAVEN, CT State House

Mon. Aug 6 ATLANTIC CITY, NJ  Dante Theater

Wed. Aug 8 BALTIMORE, MD Center Stage

 

For full list of venues and ticket links, go to http://www.thomasdolby.com/

    

'Hyperactive' Track listing  

    

CD1

    1. Hyperactive!

    2. Europa And The Pirate Twins

    3. Radio Silence

    4. Screen Kiss

    5. Valley Of The Mind's Eye

    6. I Scare Myself

    7.  The Devil Is An Englishman

    8. Windpower

    9. Dissidents

    10. Eastern Bloc

    11. Airhead

    12. Cruel

    13. The Ability To Swing

    14. Neon Sisters

    

CD2

    1. She Blinded Me With Science

    2. One Of Our Submarines

    3.  The Flat Earth

    4. Beauty Of A Dream

    5. Budapest By Blimp

    6. I Love You Goodbye

    7. Urges

    8. Pulp Culture

    9. Close But No Cigar

    10. Leipzig

    11. Silk Pyjamas

    12. May The Cube Be With You

    13. Airwaves

    14. My Brain Is Like A Sieve

Click here to read my 2007 review of Dolby's performance during a New Year's Eve festival in Costa Mesa, CA.