New music: Walter Trout, Lenny Williams, Raspberries

In this column I feature the latest album from modern blues-rock great Walter Trout, an important reissue from soul singer Lenny Williams and revisit an essential Raspberries title. 

Artist: Walter Trout

Title: Broken (Provogue Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Joe Bonamassa, Paul Rodgers, Beth Hart

Tell me more: Over the past few years a myriad of domestic and international challenges ranging from inflation, economic uncertainty and increasing violent crime at home to raging wars in Europe and the Middle East as well as rising tension between the U.S. and China bring a sobering reality to life in 2024. In Walter Trout's poignant liner notes on his new album Broken the blues great notes despite the darkness of modern life there is still hope. "These days it seems easy to get discouraged. It's easy to feel powerless. It's easy to feel broken," Trout writes, in part. "I still believe that music is a powerful force that can bring people together." Indeed, there is a life-affirming power across Broken that celebrates the power of the human spirit delivered via dynamic blues rock from one of the genre's greatest-ever proponents. The 12 songs on the Eric Corne-produced album resonate with an energy and urgency that taps into blues and classic rock with an authenticity sure to thrill discerning music lovers. From the heartfelt opener "Broken" featuring guest vocals from Beth Hart and the rootsy "Turn and Walk Away" (the latter featuring Trout's great harmonica work), to the nostalgia-filled "No Magic (On The Street), nuanced instrumental "Love Of My Life" and riveting closer "Falls Apart," the album is rife with highlights. This writer's favorite track is the bewitching "Talkin' To Myself," the song's mesmerizing grace enhanced by Trout's reflective lyrics and strengths as singer, guitarist and electric sitar player. Information: Waltertrout.com.

Artist: Lenny Williams

Title: Chill (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: James Ingram, Peabo Bryson, Tower of Power

Tell me more: Available on audio CD for the first time in 30 years, singer-songwriter Lenny Williams' Chill proves to be a timeless listen. The one-time Tower of Power singer and lead vocalist on Kenny G's 1986 hit "Don't Make Me Wait For Love" was in full command of his incredible powers as a vocalist when he recorded Chill in 1994. Armed with a wonderfully soulful voice, Williams delivers a mix of enticing originals and artful covers on the 12-track disc. Among the notable tracks on the collection are the dance-minded "Baby, You Caught Me Eye," the tender ballad "Driftin', a grooving cover of the McFadden & Whitehead signature track "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now," and lovely "Has Anybody Seen My Heart." Williams' artistic reading of the Daryl Hall & John Oates 1975 hit single "Sara Smile" is a delight. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Raspberries

Title: Live on Sunset Strip (Rykodisc)

You might like if you enjoy: Badfinger, Eric Carmen, Raspberries, Matthew Sweet

Tell me more: With the death of beloved singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Eric Carmen earlier this month, the music world understandably began to revisit and reassess his outstanding work recorded with the groundbreaking 1970s power pop quartet Raspberries and as a solo artist. Now is the perfect time to celebrate Carmen's work via the wonderful Raspberries concert recording Live on Sunset Strip, a 2007 three-disc title that features a complete 21-track live set captured at the House Of Blues, Los Angeles during the quartet's reunion tour in 2005. The Raspberries original lineup of Carmen, guitarist Wally Bryson, drummer Jim Bonfanti and bassist Dave Smalley are all in top form across the unlikely return. Among the incredible tracks on the marathon-length live set are the earworm opener "I Wanna Be With You," killer cover of The Who's "I Can't Explain," rocking "Tonight," wistful folk rock nuggets "Should I Wait" and "Come Around And See Me," ambitious "Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)," and crunchy aptly-titled "I'm A Rocker." The band closes with their soaring anthem "Go All The Way," one of this writer's all-time favorite rock songs (the track gained renewed attention when it was featured in the 2014 film "Guardians of the Galaxy"). The title includes a bonus DVD with the filmed performances of five of the key tracks featured on the audio recording. Information: amazon.com.

Robert Kinsler

Tower of Power singer Lenny Williams’ 'Chill' out on Feb. 23 via Omnivore Recordings; on CD for 1st time in 30 years

Check out a new media release for details on a reissue of famed singer Lenny Williams' Chill coming next month...Robert Kinsler

Tower of Power Singer Lenny Williams’ Chill To Be Released On February 23 via Omnivore Recordings

Available on CD For The First Time in 30 Years

January 16, 2024: On February 23, Omnivore Recordings will release the reissue of Lenny Williams’ Chill, the 1994 release from the lead singer of Tower Of Power and lead vocalist on Kenny G’s “Don’t Make Me Wait For Love,” from the 5X Platinum album Duotones. Remastered with updated artwork featuring liner notes from Kevin L. Goins, the album will be available on CD for the first time in over 30 years. Chill will also mark the first release through a new agreement between Omnivore and SoulMusic Records, with this album, in association with Platinum Garage Recordings.

 

Vocalist Lenny Williams joined Tower Of Power in 1972 after releasing singles as a solo artist on Fantasy, Galaxy, and Atco Records. His first release with the band was their self-titled, third album, which went Gold. After two albums with the group, Williams returned to his solo career—releasing albums through the end of the 1970s on Warner Bros., Motown, ABC and MCA Records. Material from those albums became a hotbed for sampling decades later by Kanye West, Mobb Deep, Scarface, Young Jeezy, and others.

 

In 1986, Williams was recruited by award-winning producer Preston Glass to sing lead vocals on a track by jazz artist Kenny G. The track, “Don’t Make Me Wait For Love,” hit #15 on the Pop charts, and the album, Duotones, went on to sell over five million copies in the US. Lenny would reconnect with Duotones producer Glass (Stacy Lattisaw & Johnny Gill, Jermaine Stewart, George Benson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Stanley Jordan) in 1994 for a new album—Chill.

 

The album contains originals from Williams, Glass, and other Duotones contributors, as well as covers of hits by Daryl Hall & John Oates (“Sara Smile”) and McFadden & Whitehead (“Ain’t No Stoppin' Us Now”).

 

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/rsA9k0Ayr4M

 

Pre-order: https://omnivorerecordings.com/shop/chill/

Chill Tracklist:

1. Chill

2. Baby, You Caught My Eye

3. Sara Smile

4. Driftin’

5. Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now

6. It Could Have Been You

7. Has Anybody Seen My Heart

8. Baby Take It Off

9. No One’s Ever Loved Me

10. Sentimental

11. I Do

12. There’s No Hiding Place

New Music: Tower of Power, Neil Young, Farrington, Brigitte DeMeyer, Natalie D-Napoleon

The far-flung genres of soul, funk, Americana, super-charged melodic rock, country blues and folk rock are among the styles celebrated across a slew of fantastic new titles.

Artist: Tower of Power

Title: 50 Years of Funk & Soul: Live at the Fox Theater - Oakland, CA (Artistry Music)

You might like if you enjoy: Tower of Power, WAR, James Brown

Tell me more: Prior to the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, I was fortunate to be able to catch a rousing full-length concert featuring legendary Oakland-spawned powerhouse Tower of Power. That memorable concert and its zestful spirit was no fluke; the newly-issued 50 Years of Funk & Soul: Live at the Fox Theater - Oakland, CA has been released via a must-have 2-CD/1-DVD package (other configurations include a 3-LP set and digital audio release) that captures the group's groundbreaking energy and timeless sound via a 22-track event staged in the band's hometown in 2018. From the opening soul sortie "Stroke" and infectious sing-along "Ain't Nothing Stopping Us Now" to the fast flying "Soul With a Capital S," Motown-flavored "You're So Wonderful, So Marvelous" and dance floor-minded "Drop It In The Slot," the collective is on fire. Lead vocalist Marcus Scott is an especially gifted singer, bringing emotional firepower and star power to the up-tempo tracks as well as lovely ballads (notably "Just When We Start Makin' It," "Don't Change Horses" and "You're Still A Young Man"). The group — anchored by its amazing five-man horn section (bandleader Emillo Castillo, Stephen "Doc" Kupka, Tom Politzer, Adolfo Acosta and Sal Cracchiolo) — continues to move forward even while steeped in their classic fusion of soul and funk as evidenced by the grooving new cut "Stop," a breathtaking "On the Serious Side" and fiery "What Is Hip?" The special 50th celebration concert includes guest band alumni Chester Thompson (Hammond B3, clarinet)  Lenny Pickett (tenor sax), Francis "Rocco" Prestia (bass), Bruce Conte (guitar) and Ray Greene (trombone). Information: TowerOfPower.com.

Artist: Neil Young

Title: Young Shakespeare (Reprise)

You might like if you enjoy: Neil Young's "Harvest" and "After The Gold Rush" albums

Tell me more: Neil Young's Young Shakespeare is an amazing recording of the artist's concert at The Shakespeare Theater in Stratford, Connecticut on Jan. 22, 1971. Filmed on 16mm and recorded just two months after the release of his iconic album After The Gold Rush, the 45-minute title features the earliest live performance footage known to exist of Young. But not only is the footage and recording historical, it's astonishing; the restoration of the film and remastering of the analog audio tapes are an absolute wonder. Young is at ease throughout the acoustic concert even while his performance of a dozen of his most beloved early originals resonate with a tangible power. It's amazing to think that Young — only 26 at the time — had already penned "Ohio," "Cowgirl in the Sand," "Helpless," "Down By the River," "Heart of Gold" and "The Needle and the Damage Done." Accompanied only by his own guitar or piano, this is an essential addition to the music library of fans of the two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer. Young Shakespeare is available via several configurations, including audio CD and vinyl LP versions, as well as a deluxe box set edition that includes vinyl, audio CD and the DVD. Information: NeilYoungArchives.com.

Artist: Farrington

Title: Saturday in Nowhereland (Farrington)

You might like if you enjoy: ELO, The Lickerish Quartet, Badfinger, Cheap Trick, Pugwash

Tell me more: When you listen to Farrington's new album Saturday in Nowhereland prepare to be wowed. The songs often turn on a dime, blending tuneful melodic rock, psychedelic stylings, power pop and other sonic genres masterfully. The bewitching title track, delightfully dark "The Loner," Cheap Trick-flavored "Damsel In Distress" and ambitious "Assassins" are early-LP standouts. Saturday in Nowhereland continues its winning momentum with the melodic rocker "Emily Lovelight," gorgeous "Turning It Up Too Loud Again," boundless "A Day At The Beach," euphonic "Anatomic" and sumptuous "The Switchblade Symphony." In addition to the top-tier talents of singer-guitarist-keyboardist Farrington (James Patrick Phelan), drummer Marcos de la Cruz and bassist Henry Clift, a who's who of musical guests appears on the disc; Jon Auer (The Posies, Big Star), Eric Dover (Jellyfish, Imperial Drag), John Easedale (Dramarama), Roger Joseph Manning, Jr. (The Lickerish Quartet, Beck) and Bryan Shaddix (The Tickets) are a few of the notables who contribute to the magic. Information: FarringtonMusic.com.

Artist: Brigitte DeMeyer

Title: Seeker (BDM Music)

You might like if you enjoy: Larkin Poe, Southern Avenue

Tell me more: That sweet corner of the musical universe where country blues, Memphis soul and American folk meet is explored with genuine grace and style on singer-songwriter Brigitte DeMeyer's elegant Seeker. Working with her co-writer/producer Jano Rix, Nashville-based DeMeyer's new album provides a joyful sonic tour of the South courtesy of the gentle "All The Blue," New Orleans-mining "Louisiana," soulful "Calamity Gone" and magnificent "Roots and Wings and Bones." Other delights on Seeker include the bluesy "Cat Man Do" and "Salt Of The Earth," acoustic "Already In" and lovely "Seeker" — all bolstered by DeMeyer's superb soprano. Information: BrigitteDeMeyer.com.

Artist: Natalie D-Napoleon

Title: You Wanted To Be The Shore But Instead You Were The Sea (Natalie D-Napoleon)

You might like if you enjoy: Rosanne Cash, Kathleen Edwards

Tell me more: Singer-songwriter Natalie D-Napoleon has returned with her first full-length set of songs in eight years, the probing You Wanted To Be The Shore But Instead You Were The Sea. The songs are delivered powerfully with nuanced musicianship, strong arrangements and real life-rooted lyrical heft to match. D-Napoleon, a native of Australia who now calls California home, worked with producer Jim Connolly and a cast of talented players to complete the album using a single microphone at Deane Chapel in the hills behind Santa Barbara, CA. The result is an authentic and intimate album that could have been recorded in Laurel Canyon a half century ago but simultaneously sounds resonant in 2021. And true to the pioneering folk rock pioneers who emerged in California in the late '60s and early '70s, D-Napoleon's lyrics hit their mark; on You Wanted To Be The Shore But Instead You Were The Sea she renders detailed experiences of women. One of my favorites is the wistful "Wildflowers," D-Napoleon's signature vocals sharing the spotlight with Doug Pettibone's sublime mandolin playing. Other standouts include the exuberant "No Longer Mine" with its anthemic build in tune with the message of independence from a flawed relationship, and the driving "Mother Of Exiles" which celebrates America's history of immigration. Information: nataliednapoleon.net.

Robert Kinsler

New Music: Carla Olson, Tower of Power, Raul Midon

Discerning listeners with an ear for a variety of styles are in luck. A new duets project from singer-songwriter/producer Carla Olson, amazing return from soul masters Tower of Power and genre-stretching effort from jazz great Raul Midón are worth adding to your music library.

Artist: Carla Olson
Title: Have Harmony Will Travel 2 (Sunset Blvd. Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Timothy B. Schmit, Peter Noone, Gene Clark, Percy Sledge
Tell me more: Lovers of stellar duets will want to hear Carla Olson's wonderful Have Harmony Will Travel 2 (released March 20 via Sunset Blvd. Records). The album features the talented Austin, Texas spawned singer-guitarist and former leader of Los Angeles' Textones teaming up with 11 notable guests to share lead vocals on a follow-up to her 2013 disc "Have Harmony, Will Travel." The track listing is uniformly strong with a celebrated and eclectic lineup of great singers artfully joining their voices with Olson's own. The decidedly rootsy "Timber, I'm Falling In Love" (with Stephen McCarthy on vocals and guitar), the Byrds-flavored "Goodbye My Love" (featuring Herman's Hermits lead singer Peter Noone) and "After the Storm" (with actress-singer Mare Winningham), and Americana nugget "Bossier City" (featuring I See Hawks In L.A.) are among my favorites on the album. The album's final track, the folk tale "Del Gato," has legendary Gene Clark and Olson joining voices in a nuanced performance. This is an album that reveals its magic more fully with each subsequent listen. Information: SunsetBlvdRecords.com.

Artist: Tower of Power
Title: Step Up (Artistry Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Tower of Power, Earth Wind & Fire
Tell me more: After more than 50 years, Tower of Power remains a musical treasure. Just listen to the Oakland-spawned outfit's Step Up (released on March 20), an intoxicating 14-track journey through the collective's blend of R&B and funk anchored by one of the world's great and enduring horn sections. Led by founder and tenor saxophonist Emilio Castillo, Tower of Power's timeless sound is celebrated with power and zeal. "The Story of You and I" is a wonderful musical explosion featuring a driving rhythm section amidst horns, fiery lead guitar and soulful lead vocals. The soulful ballad "Who Would Have Thought," shimmering "Addicted To You," and dance-minded funk romp "Look In My Eyes" are early highlights on the disc, while the jazzy "Sleeping With You Baby" and joyful soul of "Beyond My Wildest Dreams" are among the great tracks on the latter half of Step Up. Information: TowerOfPower.com.

Artist: Raul Midón
Title: The Mirror (Artistry Music/Mack Avenue Music Group)
You might like if you enjoy: Gerald Clayton, Tyrone Wells
Tell me more: Raul Midón is back with his new album The Mirror, an outstanding jazz effort which comes on the heels of the singer-guitarist's Grammy Award nominations for his previous two LPs (2017's Bad Ass & Blind and 2018's If You Really Want). This time out there is again plenty to celebrate as the talented artist (who has been blind since birth) showcases that he has an otherworldly ability to interpret the world around him and translate that into luxurious and probing songs that resonate with a master's touch. The diversity of the material is impressive. The album kicks off with the acoustic guitar-driven "I Love the Afternoon," Midón's soulful vocals balanced by some select harmonies that augment his voice; the track is further bolstered by a strong solo on his guitar. The lovely romantic-themed "A Certain Café" finds the New Mexico native joined by vibraphonist Joe Locke. On the breezy title track, he blends his signature jazz style with some flashy blues-meets-jazz guitar licks for a stylish approach. The gorgeous "Cold Cuts and Coffee" and "Deep Dry Ocean" are other standouts. He even enthralls with two solo spoken-word works ("If I Could See" and "One Day Without War"). The Mirror is a wonderful step forward for Midón. Information: RaulMidon.com.


Robert Kinsler

Masters Showcased on New Sets

Four outstanding titles deserving of widespread attention are available now, including a look back at some notable Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremonies, the latest studio album from Sir Paul McCartney, a live Yes set and wonderful collection featuring Bay Area favorites Malo.

Title: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Concert: Encore (Time Life)
You might like if you enjoy: Heart, Rush, Gary Clark Jr., Tom Petty, Donovan
Tell me more: Available on both Blu-ray and DVD, "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Concert: Encore" features the complete 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 induction ceremonies for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The good news for fans of pop, rock, soul and blues is there is a wide range of great performances and interesting speeches that make for solid viewing. Among this writer's favorite performances (there are 44 performances featured across the title!) is the Hollies performing "Bus Stop," a wonderful tribute to the late Freddie King featured the combined talents of Joe Bonamassa, Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill and Derek Trucks, a powerful set from Rush, and an inspired take on Randy Newman's "I Love L.A." featuring the singer-songwriter-composer joined by Jackson Browne, John Fogerty and Tom Petty. Other artists who appear as part of wonderful performances include modern-day blues great Gary Clark Jr., icon Bruce Springsteen and classic rockers Heart. On the Blu-ray edition reviewed here, the visual and audio quality are truly marvelous. Information: TimeLife.com.

Artist: Paul McCartney
Title: Egypt Station (Capitol Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Paul McCartney, Jason Falkner, Rusty Anderson
Tell me more: When it comes to classic '60s-spawned rock artists who have continued to release albums of new music there are always those who have little or no interest in listening regardless of how strong the material. The Zombies, Neil Young, Ringo Starr and Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues have all impressed on recently-issued titles. Add to that distinguished list Sir Paul McCartney courtesy of his terrific Egypt Station. At 76, McCartney's once shining vocal tenor is admittedly more scratchy on his 18th solo album (25th if you count Wings), but he uses that huskiness to help propel a batch of winning songs exploring everything from lust-filled romance ("Come On To Me," the Ryan Tedder co-penned "Fuh You") and attack on bullying (the infectious blues rocker "Who Cares") to the search for peace in our time ("People Want Peace"). There are several songs that rate with some of McCartney's best-ever post-Beatles songs, notably the beautiful and confessional piano ballad "I Don't Know," introspective Beatlesque-mining "Happy With You," Bossa nova foray "Back in Brazil" and reflective melodic gem "Dominoes." "Egypt Station" ends its glorious run with a glorious rock medley ("Hunt You Down/Naked/C-Link") that captures McCartney's rare ability to fuse tuneful song craft, bona fide rock 'n' roll and artful ambition with singular magic. Information: PaulMcCartney.com.

Artist: Yes featuring Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin, Rick Wakeman
Title: 50th Anniversary Live at the Apollo (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: Yes, Rick Wakeman, Trevor Rabin
Tell me more: The good news for those who didn't catch Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman on their 2016-2017 tour celebrating the music of Yes is that a sold-out performance staged at the Manchester Apollo in the United Kingdom in early 2017 was captured and is now available. 50th Anniversary Live at the Apollo was released on Sept. 7 and is available on DVD, Blu-ray, 2CD and 3LP. The performance featuring Anderson (vocals), Rabin (guitar) Wakeman (keyboards), Lee Pomeroy (bass) and Lou Molino III (drums) truly provides an astonishing look and listen at many Yes favorites. Nuggets are pulled from across the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group's 50-year legacy; "Owner of a Lonely Heart" bristles with power; "Roundabout" is slightly reworked from its 1971 studio arrangement but maintains its bewitching ethereal wonder. "I've Seen All Good People" is bolstered by a sweeping British folk spirit in its first half before more rock elements and vocal harmonies elevate it during the song's grand finale. Indeed the entire concert recording is a joy and celebrates Yes' groundbreaking prog rock sound. Information: eagle-rock.com.

Artist: Malo
Title: Latin Bugaloo (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Tower of Power, War, Santana
Tell me more: Along with groups such as Tower of Power and War, Malo carved out an intoxicating sound by mixing rock, funk, blues, Afro-Latin and jazz adorned with a brass section. Now the ensemble's enduring sound is showcased on Latin Bugaloo: The Warner Bros. Singles. Featuring all 14 A- and B-sides from the Bay Area-based band's four albums released by Warner Bros. Records in the early 1970s, the remastered cuts here sound amazing and showcase the approach of the troupe, led by bandleader Jorge Santana (the brother of Carlos Santana). Malo was able to creatively use the large mix of instruments including keyboards, congas and bongos in the service of jams that supported strong songs. "Latin Bugaloo" features the radio single versions of songs that sometimes stretched much longer on the albums. Among the highlights featured on the outstanding set is the band's best known hit, the breezy "Suavecito," the jazz-flavored "Nena," richly-textured "Just Say Goodbye," pretty ballad "Love Will Survive" and funky "Think About Love.". Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.



Robert Kinsler

Just Listen! Stellar New Albums

There are some really strong discoveries to be made this spring, including stellar returns from Matthew Sweet, Tower of Power and Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson, as well as two outstanding deluxe reissues featuring singer-songwriter Steve Wynn.

Artist: Matthew Sweet
Title: Tomorrow's Daughter (Honeycomb Hideout / MRI)
You might like if you enjoy: Jason Falkner, Big Star, Cheap Trick
Tell me more: Matthew Sweet has long been one of power pop's most talented and important voices. On his latest album Tomorrow's Daughter, Sweet finds new sonic pay dirt in shimmering guitar work, propulsive rhythms, lovely melodies and exhilarating choruses. It all makes for one great listen, with every track on the dozen-song set a genuine winner. The jangle pop of "Lady Frankenstein" is an early standout, with Sweet's skills as tunesmith and singer on full display. The wistful "Years" has more than a trace of melancholy, exploring regret with elegiac candor. The garage rocker "Out Of My Misery" is one of those driving rockers bolstered by the three-guitar attack of Jason Victor, John Moremen and Sweet as well as the great drumming of Ric Menck. The Beatlesque "Belong To You," baroque pop of "Ever After" (featuring the Bangles' Debbi Peterson on drums), psychedelia-tinged "Passerby" and indie rocker "Show Me" explore the other stellar reaches of the Lincoln, Nebraska native's musical reach. Information: matthewsweet.com.

Artist: Tower of Power
Title: Soul Side of Town (Artistry Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Tower of Power, The Heavy
Tell me more: Celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, legendary Tower of Power are back with a new album, Soul Side of Town, that fully delivers the horn section-based group's signature brand that masterfully blends R&B, soul, funk and jazz. The 10-member Bay Area group (which includes four of their founding members) continues to celebrate and refine its classic sound and style, with the troupe's spectacular horn section enhanced by a potent rhythm punch, as well as flashy guitar work and keyboards. Lead vocalist Marcus Scott has a powerful voice able to further propel Tower of Power's celebration-minded approach. A collection anchored by the killer title track, "Soul Side of Town" includes a slew of great songs including the percussion-fueled "East Bay! All Day!," funky "Hangin' With My Baby," the shining R&B ballad "When Love Takes Control" and aptly-dubbed "Do It With Soul." The amazing horn arrangements dazzle everywhere, including on "After Hours" and "Butter Fried." Information: TowerOfPower.com.  

Artist: Steve Wynn
Titles: Kerosene Man; Dazzling Display (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: The Dream Syndicate, the Baseball Project, John Doe
Tell me more: After fronting his seminal band the Dream Syndicate for the better part of the 1980s, Steve Wynn embarked on a successful solo career that expanded his musical range. The beginning of that solo journey is celebrated across the recently-reissued and expanded editions of his first two solo efforts, 1990's Kerosene Man and 1992's Dazzling Display. The range of material on each album is stunning; take "Kerosene Man" with the far-flung likes of "The Blue Drifter" (an Americana-styled lyrical tale with Steve Berlin's baritone sax capturing the mood perfectly), the edgy rocker "Younger," Latin foray "Under the Weather" and fiery heartland-styled rocker "Something to Remember Me By" about as different from each other as imaginable. Add to that intoxicating mix a duet with Concrete Blonde singer Johnette Napolitano, the stirring "Conspiracy of the Heart," and six bonus tracks recorded live originally on a rare promo-only vinyl "Straight to the Swapmeet: Legendary Authorized Bootleg" disc. 

On Wynn's sophomore solo disc Dazzling Display the results are just as glorious — with the swirling rocker "Drag," reflective "Halo," rollicking folk rocker "A Dandy in Disguise" and the magnetic, thought-provoking title track "Dazzling Display" resound with the same power today as when they were originally released 25 years ago. This writer's favorite track on the disc is the radiant power pop nugget "Tuesday" (featuring Peter Buck's 12-string guitar, John Wesley Harding's harmonica and backing vocals from Susan Cowsill, the Bangles' Vicki Peterson, and the Turtles' Flo and Eddie). The bonus tracks included on Dazzling Display include live covers of Sonic Youth's "Kool Thing" and Paul Simon's "Boy in the Bubble." Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson
Title: Apart (Capitol Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Pete Yorn, Scarlett Johansson, the Postal Service
Tell me more: Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson have returned with another great collaboration, with the new EP Apart being the long-awaited follow-up to the duo's 2009 wonderful debut album Break Up. The new set takes a probing look at one-time lovers living life apart. The release launches with the infectious dream pop of "Iguana Bird," a song that probes the aftermath of a couple divided as the two singers' voices uniformly proclaim "I Love You" delivered amidst a glimmering and intoxicating sheen. "Bad Dreams" is just as inviting with an undeniable chorus and the two singers' voices blending to create a singularly voice of its own.  "Movies" plays out via a dreamy moodscape, Yorn's distant keyboards-bolstered vocals suddenly doubled by Johansson's rich soprano; "Cigarillo" is folk rock perfection. The 18-minute disc ends with the decidedly-modern "Tomorrow," Johansson showcasing her evocative vocals amidst an electronica soundscape.  Information: PeteYorn.com.




Robert Kinsler

Inbox Update: Tower of Power recording new album; seeking new lead singer

I enjoyed catching Tower of Power when they performed at NAMM earlier this year. The troupe's continuing journey continues; here is the latest media release on the band...


Tower of Power Gears Up for New Album in Celebration of 45th Anniversary

TOP Set for Fox & Friends All-American Concert Series August 16, 2013


Los Angeles, CA (July 9, 2013) – One of music’s most iconic soul/funk bands,Tower of Power, is set to record a brand new album in 2013 in celebration of the band’s 45th Anniversary.   Over the 45 year career, TOP’s unique sound has been heard in all corners of the world and continues with the recently announced “Up In Smoke” tour starring TOP, WAR, and Cheech & Chong.  At the present time, TOP is touring throughout Europe on their annual summer trek. You can even catch them on the Fox and Friends All American Concert Series on August 16th on the Fox News Channel. Check out more on the series here,Foxandfriends.com/concert.
 
“In my 45 years as bandleader for Tower of Power we have been blessed to tour with many gifted entertainers,” says founding member Emilio Castillo.  “As we move into our 45th year together I’m very excited to see where our music takes us this time around.”
 
As in any band, members of TOP have changed throughout the years.  2014 will be another transition year as lead singer Larry Braggs will move-on at the end of 2013.  “For most bands gaining or losing a lead singer can either make or break the band in the eyes of the fans but in our group there has been so many great ones that the fans are generally excited about who will be next. We have a unique signature sound that combines a “one of a kind” rhythm section with a world class horn section playing very eclectic original soul music. The job of the lead singer is to stir the soup as the band is cooking; while bringing his own distinctive flavor to the mixture. He’s the “Master of Ceremonies” on stage and a key ingredient to the excitement that’s generated nightly,” adds Castillo.
 
For all current information on Tower of Power, please visit www.towerofpower.com
 
For more information on Tower of Power’s global search for a new singer, please visit
www.towerofpower.com/new_singer.html 
 
2013 Tower of Power Tour Schedule 
(check for updates)
Jul 09 Gothenburg, Sweeden / Tradgarn
Jul 11 Paris, France / Zenith
Jul 13 Juan-Les-Pins, France / La Pinede
Jul 18 Tulock, CA / Stanislaus County Fair
Jul 26 Niigata Japan / Fuji Rock Festival
Jul 29-30 Tokyo, Japan / Blue Note Tokyo
Aug 03 Vallejo, CA / Solano County Fair (Concert Arena)
Aug 09 El Dorado Hills, CA / Steven Young Amphitheater
Aug 10 Sparks, NV / Hot August Nights
Aug 14 Westbury, NY / The Theater at Westbury*
Aug 15 Bethel, NY / Bethel Woods Center for the Arts*
Aug 18 Snoqualmie, WA / Snoqualmie Casino
Aug 23 Atlanta, GA / Chastain Park Amphitheater*
Aug 28 Redding, CA / The Cascade Theater
Aug 29 Chico, CA / Laxson Auditorium
Aug 30 Monterey, CA / Monterey County Fair (Garden Stage)
Sep 01 Templeton, CA / Castoro Cellars
Sep 12 Tulare, CA / Tulare County Fair
Sep 13 Pomona, CA / LA County Fair
Sep 14 San Diego, CA / Humphrey's Concerts by the Bay
Sep 26 Alexandria, VA / The Birchmere
Oct 15 Puerto Vallarta, MEX / Holland America Cruise - Ms. Westerdam
Oct 18 Jacksonville, FL / The Florida Theater
Oct 19 Clearwater, FL / Coachman Park
Oct 25-27 Las Vegas, NV / South Point Hotel & Casino
Nov 08 Newkirk, OK / First Council Casino*
Nov 09 Concho, OK / Lucky Star Casino*
Nov 11 Laughlin, NV / Harrah’s Fiesta
Dec 19 Highland, CA / San Manuel Indian Casino
Dec 28 San Jose, CA / San Jose Civic Auditorium
 * “Up In Smoke” Tour date

About Tower of Power:
Tower of Power’s musical odyssey began in 1968 when tenor saxophonist/vocalist Emilio Castillo met baritone sax player Stephen “Doc” Kupka in July of that year. Originally named The Motown’s, the guys paid homage to the R&B sound that influenced them while adding their own personal twist. In 1970, the now renamed Tower of Power landed its first record deal with Bill Graham’s San Francisco Records. Their next album, Bump City, was recorded on Warner Brothers and produced a string of hits giving the band its first national exposure. At least 60 talented musicians have toured or recorded with the band in its 45 years and they have been featured with artists as diverse as Aerosmith, Elton John, Little Feat, Phish, Santana, Heart, and many others, forever infusing the radio airwaves with Tower’s musical DNA. Each year Tower of Power tours the United States, Japan and Europe, playing sold out shows all over the world. Recent releases include “Great American Soulbook”, a collection of classic soul tunes, and the 40th Anniversary Concert DVD. Tower has never been busier or more in demand.