Reissues Roundup: Kelly Willis, Sorrows, NRBQ, Uncle Walt's Band, The Cowsills, Jimmie Dale and the Flatlanders

This column features a wide-ranging mix of fantastic audio titles available now including the latest reissues featuring the music of Kelly Willis, Sorrows, NRBQ, Uncle Walt's Band, the Cowsills and Jimmie Dale and the Flatlanders. Both Omnivore Recordings and Big Stir Records release many of the greatest and most important reissues on a consistent basis and this column features a number of those two labels' recent audio releases that are more than worthy of adding to any music lover's home library. 

Artist: Kelly Willis
Title: What I Deserve — 25th Anniversary Edition (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Nanci Griffith, The Jayhawks, Jennifer Hanson

Tell me more: Celebrated Americana-country artist Kelly Willis' acclaimed 1999 album What I Deserve has been reissued as a deluxe expanded edition on CD and vinyl; the edition also includes five previously unissued tracks recorded live on Nov. 14, 1999 on Mountain Stage. The album's musical and lyrical strengths shine as strong now as they did at the time of the disc's release. Early highlights include the irresistible opener "Take Me Down," countrified "Heaven Bound," confessional "Talk Like That" and "Not Forgotten You." Later gems include "Wrapped" (an excellent romance-minded track written by Bruce Robison), tender "Cradle Of Love," emotive take on Nick Drake's "Time Has Told Me" and the Appalachia-tinged "Happy With That" (the latter a song Willis co-wrote with the Jayhawks' Gary Louris). The packaging includes lyrics as well as new liner notes from Peter Blackstock (No Depression, Austin American-Statesman). Information: omnivorerecordings.com.  

Artist: Sorrows
Title: Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow (Big Stir Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Knack, the Plimsouls, the Kinks

Tell me more: More than four decades after New York City power pop quartet Sorrows recorded their third album in a single night back in 1981, the LP has finally been released courtesy of Big Stir Records. Now the inspired album featuring the talents of Arthur Alexander (vocals, guitar), Joey Cola (vocals, guitar), Ricky Street (vocals, bass) and Jett Harris (drums) can be heard in its entirety; music fans can only marvel at the power of a recording made 44 years ago that showcases a troupe that was masterfully blending power pop, new wave and punk genres with a signature sound that was definitely the band's own. The explosive opener "Never Mind," poignant light speed take on the Rolling Stones' "Have You Seen Your Mother, Baby, Standing In The Shadow?," glorious melodic rocker "Out Of My Head," rockabilly-fueled "Let Me Know" and the fiery instrumental "Slo' Surfin'" are early standouts on the disc. An ambitious tribute to John Lennon titled "Cricket Man," infectious new wave rocker "Just One Fool To Blame," euphoric power pop cut "Too Much Love," a bona fide punk rock reading of Eddie Cochran's "Something' Else" and genuinely tender "Love Ain't Nothin' (Without You)" thrill on the latter half of the 14-track LP. Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrrow closes out with Sorrows' blistering cover of the Pirates' "You Don't Own Me." Information: bigstirrecords.com.  

Artist: NRBQ
Title: Brass Tacks (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: NRBQ, R.E.M., Buck Owens

Tell me more: NRBQ has been releasing top-tier albums since 1969, with virtuoso musicianship, far-flung songcraft and genuine ambition a distinctive feature across the band's impressive discography. Last year saw the release of a 10th anniversary deluxe reissue of NRBQ's Brass Tacks, featuring the original album along with three bonus tracks. This stellar set includes a wide range of great material including the joyful opener "Waitin' On My Sweetie Pie," satirical "Greetings From Delaware" addressing the dangers of racking up credit cards, the Buck Owens-flavored "Fightin' Back" featuring Casey McDonough's wry vocals, Terry Adams' romantic "Sit In My Lap," jazzy "Places Far Away" rooted in the Lydian scale that Adams had written as a teenager decades earlier, the reflective roots rocker "This Flat Tire," the sparkling love song "Can't Wait To Kiss You," and harmonies-filled "I'd Like To Know." This being NRBQ, surprises elevate the musical proceedings at every turn; just listen to the group's wonderfully cheerful take on "Getting To Know You"from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical "The King and I." The album also includes informative liner notes from John DeAngelis. Information: omnivorerecordings.com. 

 

Artist: Uncle Walt's Band
Title: Thought You'd Never Ask: The Complete 1975 Armadillo Records Recordings  (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: David Ball, Uncle Walt's Band

Tell me more: A groundbreaking Americana trio featuring Walter Hyatt, Champ Hood and David Ball, Uncle Walt's Band were among the most popular artists in Austin, Texas' burgeoning music scene in the 1970s and early '80s. Thanks to their strong songwriting and performance skills, as well as their intricate three-part vocal harmonies and blending of genres in their approach, they were a major influence on the celebrated likes of Lucinda Williams, Marcia Ball, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Lyle Lovett. Now comes the release of Thought You'd Never Ask: The Complete 1975 Armadillo Records Recordings, a new collection featuring 22 tracks — including early versions of tracks that would appear on future Uncle Walt's Band releases. Three of the selections on Thought You'd Never Ask appeared as bonus material on Omnivore's 2019 expanded edition of the band's self-titled debut but the other 19 tracks are previously unissued. The warmth and authenticity of the trio can be heard across the essential collection, ranging from the rich opener "Beauty In The Flesh," Americana-styled "Say Goodbye" and heartfelt "Deeper Than Love" to the uptempo rootsy folk rocker "Getaway," an intoxicating take on the traditional favorite "Midnight Special," wistful "As The Crow Flies" and captivating "Whatever Reason." Thought You'd Never Ask: The Complete 1975 Armadillo Records Recordings also includes new liner notes from renowed journalist and producer Bill Bentley. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.  

Artist: The Cowsills
Title: Global (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The Cowsills, The Continental Drifters, The Bangles, Badfinger

Tell me more: Great voices. Wonderful songs. Creative arrangements. Top-notch musicianship. The Cowsills' 1998 Global (their first album of new material in nearly three decades) was reissued via a restored and remastered edition late last year. Appearing for the first time on vinyl, as well as via audio CD and on digital, Global also features three bonus tracks. The jangly harmonies-drenched opener "What About Love," evocative "Under The Gun," soaring "What I Believe," beautifully heart-wrenching "Is It Any Wonder?" and the rollicking bonus track "Maybe It's You" are among my favorites on the LP. Guests on the disc include Vicki Peterson (The Bangles, Continental Drifters), Berton Averre (The Knack), Peter Holsapple (The dB's, Continental Drifters) and John Stamos. A 12-page booklet includes updated artwork and new liner notes from Brett Milano and Bob Cowsill. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.  

Artist: Jimmie Dale and the Flatlanders
Title: All American Music (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Jimmie Dale, Joe Ely, Butch Hancock, Old Crow Medicine Show

Tell me more: Jimmie Dale and the Flatlanders were a legendary troupe that featured Jimmie Dale Gilmore on lead vocals, lead and rhythm guitar, as well a Joe Ely (vocals, harmonica, guitar) and Butch Hancock (harmony vocals, guitar, harmonica, banjo). Recorded back in 1972 and scheduled for release the following year, the group's All American Music was put on hold and went unissued — save for a few copies that were released on 8-Track. It wasn't until 1980 when a compilation released in the U.K. collected all the known Flatlanders material for release. Fast forward 45 years and now Omnivore Recordings has collected every recording from the band (including from an out-of-print German collection) and released the outstanding 18-track All American Music. Under the direction of Grammy winner Cheryl Pawelski, the collection was mastered by Grammy Award winner Michael Graves; the packaging features liner notes from author Colin Escott. The acoustic-styled band's old-time sound is a delight that enthralls with a single listen. Highlights include the authentic "The Heart You Left Behind," sumptuous "She Had Everything," lovely "Tonight I Think I'm Gonna Go Downtown," uptempo "Rose From The Mountain," wonderfully off-kilter "Stars In My Life" and gorgeous "I Know You." As Escott notes: "More than a half-century later, The Flatlanders' original music still sounds fresh. It was truly a sound like no other." Information: omnivorerecordings.com.  

Robert Kinsler

Omnivore Recordings announces LP release for Uncle Walt’s Band Acclaimed 'Anthology', out on 3/1

 Omnivore Recordings has announced the release of a anthology featuring acclaimed Americana trio Uncle Walt's Band. Get all the details below...Robert Kinsler

Uncle Walt’s Band Anthology: Those Boys From Carolina, They Sure Enough Could Sing… LP

Acclaimed Anthology From Texas Music Legends Finally Arrives on Vinyl on March 1

 

“Walter Hyatt, David Ball and Champ Hood have been an inspiration to me ever since the first time I heard Uncle Walt’s Band. Musically, their finely crafted original compositions reflect diverse influences, while lyrically they demonstrate a sensitive, sophisticated understanding of the dignified South.” - Lyle Lovett, when he was a journalism student at Texas A&M University

January 22, 2024: In 2018, Omnivore released Anthology: Those Boys From Carolina, They Sure Enough Could Sing… (titled after a quote from Lovett himself) on CD and Digital. The ecstatic response renewed interest in the classic original band, whose influence was so strong on not only Country music, but the then unnamed genre of Americana. That collection is now reimagined on LP, containing two songs making their vinyl debut – Anthology’s “Getaway” (featured on HBO’s Silicon Valley) and a previously unissued fiddle demo of ”I’ll Come Knockin’” (different than the CD and Digital Anthology version and exclusive to the vinyl release). The LP will be released on March 1.

 

Uncle Walt’s Band, from Spartanburg, South Carolina, was an eclectic music trio that moved to Nashville in 1972 and shortly thereafter to Austin at the urging of Willis Alan Ramsey. An attempt at an album proved unsuccessful , so the band headed back to Spartanburg in 1974 where they recorded their debut LP, Blame It On The Bossa Nova, now titled, Uncle Walt’s Band. A second indie album, An American In Texas was released in 1980. Both titles were expanded and reissued by Omnivore Recordings. Recorded Live followed (also expanded and reissued by Omnivore as Recorded Live At The Waterloo Ice House).

 

In 1983, Uncle Walt’s Band officially parted ways. Although remaining friends and working on various projects over the years, each went on to pursue solo music careers: Hyatt released several albums and performed on Austin City Limits, Hood became a Texas Music Hall of Fame sideman playing for artists like Lyle Lovett and Jerry Jeff Walker, and Ball’s success with his hit “Thinkin’ Problem” established him as a Country Music star. 

 

Back in the late ’70s at Austin’s famed Waterloo Ice House you could find Uncle Walt’s Band fans listening raptly in the packed venue sitting beside the likes of Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Nanci Griffith, Jerry Jeff Walker, or Marcia Ball. Now, you can experience why everyone was there. This long overdue collection attempts to right missed opportunities of the past and finally gain Uncle Walt’s Band the recognition they deserve. On your turntable!

 

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/G4wM0rQ9234

 

Pre-order HERE

 

Anthology: Those Boys From Carolina, They Sure Enough Could Sing… tracklist:

Side One:

1. Getaway*

2. Seat Of Logic

3. Dish Wiped Clean

4. Ruby

5. High Hill

6. Aloha

7. Don’t You Think I Feel It Too

8. Deeper Than Love

 

Side Two:

1. As The Crow Flies

2. Bluebird

3. Last One To Know

4. Stay With The One

5. So Long Baby

6. Holding On

7. Walking Angel

8. I’ll Come Knockin’ (Fiddle Demo)**

 

* First time on vinyl

** Previously unissued

Reissues, retrospectives and returns: Deep Purple, Colin Blunstone, Buck Owens and the Buckeroos, Walter Hyatt tribute

The return of Deep Purple as well as essential reissues from singer-songwriter Colin Blunstone and Buck Owens and the Buckeroos as well as tribute to the late country music star Walter Hyatt are definitely worth adding to your music library.

Artist: Deep Purple

Title: Turning To Crime (earMUSIC)

You might like if you enjoy: Deep Purple, Steve Morse, Ian Gillan, Peter Green

Tell me more: Deep Purple is back with Turning To Crime, the classic hard rock troupe's first ever album featuring a full track listing covering other artists' songs. The new album is also the third release in a must-hear series of titles produced by Bob Ezrin that has marked a successful new chapter for Deep Purple (singer Ian Gillan, bassist Roger Glover, drummer Ian Paice, keyboardist Don Airey, guitarist Steve Morse). It should come as little surprise that the 12-track "Turning To Crime" celebrates Deep Purple's signature sound while also creatively honoring the classics revisited on the disc. A driving take on Love's "7 And 7 Is" kicks off the album, the rousing cover enhanced by Morse's guitar and Airey keyboards. Other early standouts on the album include a playful take on the Ray Charles favorite "Let The Good Times Roll," and potent versions of the Peter Green-penned "Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu" and "Oh Well," the latter shining a welcome light on Gillan's powerful vocals and Morse's breathtaking lead guitar playing. The magic continues with a psychedelia-tinged reading of the Yardbirds' "Shapes Of Things," amped cover of Bob Seger's "Lucifer," and burning take on Cream's "White Room." A dazzling eight-minute medley caps the album with selections pulled from the far-flung likes of Freddie King, Booker T. and the M.G.'s, Allman Brothers and Led Zeppelin revisited. Other artists covered on the album include Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels, Bob Dylan, Little Feat and Jimmy Driftwood. Information: Deep-Purple.com or ear-music.net.

Artist: Colin Blunstone

Title: One Year: 50th Anniversary Edition (Sundazed Music)

You might like if you enjoy: The Zombies, Colin Blunstone

Tell me more: Originally released in November 1971, singer-songwriter Colin Blunstone's One Year was The Zombies lead vocalist's solo debut; Blunstone's Zombies band mates Rod Argent and Chris White co-produced the album. Now comes the outstanding 50th Anniversary Edition of the classic LP that immerses the listener in the artist's enthralling mix of neo-classical, rock, jazz and Baroque pop. In addition to the original album track listing, the reissue includes 14 previously unreleased recordings and nine unrecorded compositions. One of rock's greatest singers, Blunstone's soaring and mesmerizing vocals shine across the collection. The reissue is a joy with the uptempo "She Loves The Way They Love Her," classical music-mining "Misty Roses" (featuring Zombies bassist Chris White on classical guitar) and "Smokey Day," jazz-tinged Baroque rock classic "Caroline Goodbye," and buoyant "Mary Won't You Warm My Bed" all early delights on the disc. The gorgeous "Her Song", soaring "Say You Don't Mind," flamenco guitar-adorned "I've Always Had You," touching "I'm Coming Home" and dark "Sing Your Own Song" (the latter a song written in response to Blunstone reading about his own death in Rolling Stone) are among the late-title highlights. The physical release — available on audio CD and vinyl — includes never-before-seen photos and new liner notes penned by Blunstone. Information: ColinBlunstone.net. 

Artist: Buck Owens and the Buckeroos

Titles: Your Mother's Prayer; The Kansas City Song; I Wouldn't Live in New York City; In the Palm of Your Hand; Ain't It Amazing, Gracie; (It's a) Monster Holiday (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Dwight Yoakam, Buck Owens, Merle Haggard

Tell me more: Back in June of this year, Omnivore Recordings announced the reissue of remastered editions of nine outstanding Buck Owens and the Buckeroos album titles spanning 1968 to 1974. For fans of the legendary and beloved country music artist, these titles are crucial. In August I reviewed the first trio of these special editions and am going to highlight the other six in this week's column. 

Originally released in early 1970, Your Mother's Prayer features a gospel-centered approach highlighted by the beautiful title track (bolstered by classical and pedal steel guitar textures), the swinging "That Old Time Religion," the affecting "In God I Trust" and lively "That Sunday Feeling." Owens wrote or co-wrote seven of the 11 tracks on an album that ranks among the best country music gospel albums of all time.  

Released in July 1970, The Kansas City Song, features 10 infectious songs showcasing Owens' strong songcraft, signature vocal and the top-tier musical talents of guitarists Don Rich and Doyle Holly, drummer Jerry Wiggins, keyboardist Earl Poole Ball, bassist pianist Jim Shaw and pedal steel legend Buddy Emmons. Standouts include the rousing title track, tender ballads "Bring Back My Peace Of Mind," "I'd Love To Be Your Man," melodic "Amsterdam" and poignant "Black Texas Dirt." 

Released at the end of 1970, each song on I Wouldn't Live in New York City focuses on a different city. The concept album reached #12 on the country album charts and is a wonderful listen. The comedic "I Wouldn't Live in New York City (If They Gave Me The Whole Dang Town)" was recorded live on the streets of The Big Apple. Other memorable originals on the disc include the wistful "Reno Lament," beautiful "The Wind Blows Every Day In Chicago," church bells-bolstered "(It's A Long Way To) Londontown" and Latin-fused "Santa Domingo."

Released in January 1973, In the Palm of Your Hand proved to be another hit for the prolific Owens. Featuring 10 tracks, standouts on the set include the romantic title track, country rock-tinged "Made In Japan," yearning "Sweethearts In Heaven" and bittersweet "Arms Full Of Empty."

Released a mere two months after In the Palm of Your Hand, Ain't It Amazing, Gracie continued Owens' creative and commercial success courtesy of 10 indelible tracks. The pretty "Long Hot Summer," a shining cover of Home Joy's "Streets of Bakersfield," colorful "Your Monkey Won't Be Home Tonight" and sorrowful "Old Faithful" are among the terrific cuts on the album.

Issued in 1974, (It's a) Monster Holiday was Owens and his Buckeroos' 23rd Top 10 country album. The album features a rich mix of humorous tracks (the title track, "Meanwhile Back at the Ranch"), uptempo material ("Stony Mountain West Virginia," "Kiss An Angel Good Mornin'," "Pass Me By (If You're Only Passing Through)") and lush ballads ("Amazing Love," "I Love," "You're Gonna Love Yourself in the Morning"). The album also features "On the Cover of the Music City News," a clever re-write by Owens and Shaw of Shel Silverstein's "Cover of the Rolling Stone."

The Omnivore Recordings reissues have been released in their original configurations on audio CD and Digital (in both standard and high resolution); each has been mastered from the original analog tapes by Michael Graves and produced for release by Grammy-winner Cheryl Pawelski, and all feature expanded artwork and new liner notes from Owens biographer Randy Poe (the author of "Buck 'Em! The Autobiography of Buck Owens"). Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artists: Lyle Lovett, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Junior Brown, David Ball, more

Title: Mighty Fine: An Austin City Limits Tribute to Walter Hyatt (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: David Ball, Lyle Lovett, Shawn Colvin, Uncle Walt's Band

Tell me more: During the late 1970s and early '80s, Uncle Walt's Band (David Ball, Champ Hood, Walter Hyatt) was one of the most popular artists in Austin, Texas. The South Carolina-spawned trio issued several self-released titles before breaking up in 1983. Even after the acclaimed trio broke up and Hyatt returned to Nashville with his wife, Heidi, he remained a fixture on the country music scene and even produced Lyle Lovett's 1990 major label debut "King Tears." Hyatt also recorded several solo albums, including 1993's Music Town. Sadly, Hyatt died in the May 11, 1996 ValueJet Plane crash that took the lives of all passengers and crew. Lovett subsequently helped organize tribute concerts to benefit Hyatt's wife and children; now tracks from a 1997 "Austin City Limits" Tribute to Hyatt have been released; the title (Mighty Fine: An Austin City Limits Tribute to Walter Hyatt) features 11 tracks from the original broadcast and six additional tracks not shown on the television special. Additionally, four previously-unissued Hyatt recordings — including the timely "In A Christmas Dream" — are included as bonus tracks. The wonderful release features a diverse lineup of artists who worked with or were influenced by Hyatt including Lovett, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Marcia Ball, Junior Brown, Shawn Colvin, and his Uncle Walt's Band mates Ball and Hood. "Mighty Fine" is available on audio CD and via Digital. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com. 

Robert Kinsler

New music: Uncle Walt's Band, Alabama Slim, Richard Hell and the Voidoids

Three special early 2021 releases are worthy of discovery by music lovers.

Artist: Uncle Walt's Band

Title: Recorded Live at Waterloo Ice House (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Buck Owens, David Ball, Lyle Lovett, Americana music

Tell me more: Omnivore Recordings continues its series of essential and expanded reissues with Recorded Live at Waterloo Ice House, a recording featuring groundbreaking Austin trio Uncle Walt's Band (Walter Hyatt, Champ Hood and David Ball). The track listing was pulled from concerts staged March 19-20 and April 9-10, 1982.  Originally issued as a private pressing in 1982 on the band's own Lespedeza label, that 14-track set has been expanded to an impressive 21 tracks. There is no filler to be heard here; the gorgeous harmonies-drenched ballad "Love Has Laid Me Down," '50s-styled "Stagger Lee," jazzy "Bye, Bye Baby" and "Desiree," countrified "Motor City Man" and "I'm Going To Break My Heart In Two" are just a few of the stellar selections on the wonderful title. The audio CD package includes an insightful 12-page booklet with historical photos and terrific liner notes adding depth to the set. While Ball is alive and well, Hyatt died in a plane crash in Florida in 1996 and Hood passed away after a battle with cancer in 2001. Catch up with Uncle Walt's Band's important legacy when Recorded Live at Waterloo Ice House is released on Feb. 5, 2021. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Alabama Slim

Title: The Parlor (Cornelius Chapel Records)

You might like if you enjoy: John Lee Hooker, Lightnin' Hopkins, Little Freddie King

Tell me more: Alabama Slim's The Parlor was tracked in a single session over the course of four hours in June 2019, with the Vance, Alabama native's resonant baritone vocals and guitar work bolstered by guitarist Little Freddie King and drummer Ardie Dean. That session was engineered by Reginald Nicholas and produced by Dean; later Matt Patton and Bronson Tew took those raw files, remixing and mastered the 10 tracks back to tape with the addition of bass guitar, organ and piano (courtesy of Matt Patton and Jimbo Mathus). The results of their collective efforts shine across the authentic blues-styled The Parlor. Slim — whose birth name is Milton Frazier — was born in March 1939. He is truly impressive across a solid and stirring effort recorded a few months after he turned 80; the album is sure to please all fans of traditional blues. Highlights include the nuanced "Rob Me Without A Gun," politically-minded "Forty Jive" and decidedly loose "Someday Baby" and "Down in The Bottom." Little Freddie King takes over lead vocals on the driving "Freddie's VooDoo Boogie." Information: musicmaker.org/artists/alabama-slim/. 

Artist: Richard Hell and the Voidoids

Title: Destiny Street Complete (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Television, the Clash, the New York Dolls, punk rock

Tell me more: Richard Hell and the Voidoids' Destiny Street was the follow-up to 1977's acclaimed punk album Blank Generation. The sophomore effort Hell and the Voidoids recorded in 1981 and released in 1982 didn't ultimately meet Hell's standards. And as Hell notes in the liner notes on the outstanding new Destiny Street Complete collection: "The final mix was a morass of trebly multi-guitar blare." Indeed, Destiny Street Complete includes four newly remastered albums on two audio CDs, including a new remix of the album (and the bonus track "Don't Die"). The good news is that the latest remix was made possible with the unexpected discovery of three of the four original 24-track master tapes from the original recording sessions, which Hell had been told had been lost. With their discovery, Hell realized he could add new guitar solos and vocals in order to create a new and improved version of the album. It's fun to hear the different versions of the hard-driving songs (including a dozen demos recorded 1978-1980). 

The mix of material that benefits from Hell's signature style includes his covers of the Kinks' rousing "I Gotta Move" and Bob Dylan's reflective "Going Going Gone" as well as blistering original rockers ("The Kid With the Replaceable Head," "Lowest Common Dominator," "Destiny Street") and genre-mixing gems ("Downtown at Dawn," "Time," "Staring in Her Eyes"). In addition to Destiny Street Complete being available as the wonderful two-disc audio CD title reviewed here (complete with a fully-illustrated 22-page booklet), Omnivore Recordings also has a very limited supply of clear vinyl editions of the title Destiny Street Remixed available as a stand-alone vinyl release via the record label's website. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler 

Here is the version of the column as it appeared in print in Desert Star Weekly on Feb. 3, 2021.

Uncle Walt's Band's 'Live at Waterloo Ice House' captures Texas legends in their element

 Just because it's Thanksgiving tomorrow doesn't mean there isn't exciting music news to share today...Robert Kinsler

'Live At Waterloo Ice House' captures Texas legends Uncle Walt's Band in their element

1982 live recording from trio of Walter Hyatt, Champ Hood and David Ball receives re-mastered, expanded reissue from Omnivore Recordings; due out Feb. 5, 2021

Uncle Walt's Band (Photo by Kathy Hill)

AUSTIN, Texas — “The best band in town was Uncle Walt’s Band.” That’s what Jimmie Dale Gilmore remembers about the trio of Walter Hyatt, Champ Hood, and David Ball circa 1980.

 

Originally released as a private pressing in 1982 on the band’s own Lespedeza label, Recorded Live was a document of their legendary shows at Waterloo Ice House in Austin, Texas. While those shows began around 9:30 p.m. and often continued past 2 a.m., only 14 tracks recorded over four nights were made available to share the magic of the three virtuoso singers and players.

 

Now, after releasing the anthology and expanded versions of their self-titled debut and its follow-up, An American in Texas, Omnivore Recordings will present a re-imagined version of Recorded Live — now titled Recorded Live at Waterloo Ice House. Street date for CD and Digital is February 5, 2021.

 

The collection has been expanded to 21 tracks, with seven songs from the original release, four previously unissued alternate takes, and a whopping ten previously unissued performances. The new package features photos, ephemera, new liner notes from Peter Blackstock (music writer for the Austin American-Statesman), and restoration and mastering from Grammy^®-winning engineer Michael Graves.

 

Recorded Live at Waterloo Ice House helps paint a bigger, wider picture of Uncle Walt’s Band in their prime, and certainly in their element.  Tracks from this collection have been performed/recorded by Shelby Lynne, Twang Twang Shockaboom, Kelly Willis / Bruce Robison, Shawn Colvin, Christine Albert, Gary P. Nunn, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Junior Brown, and Jimmy LaFave.

 

The late Texas singer-songwriter Jerry Jeff Walker once recollected, “I would go see Uncle Walt’s Band at the Waterloo Ice House, drink scotch and soda, listen to Walter sing ‘Ruby,’ and everything was all right.” Rush Evans, DJ with Austin’s KOOP-FM, says of the band, “Sitting front row center for these shows changed my life.” Longtime fan Terry Tammadge remarks, “I think of the electricity in the air at those gigs at the original Waterloo Ice House ... I imagine it to be what one would have experienced at the Cavern Club seeing the Beatles.” Producer Fletcher Clark, who recorded the four weekend shows which form the foundation of this release notes of the Ice House years, “Most people sensed that they were in a very historical moment. A lot of times, you look back and go, ‘Gosh, that was the best time.’ But people realized it then.”

 

With Recorded Live at Waterloo Ice House, you can be there with Uncle Walt’s Band now.

 

Track Listing:

If I Don’t Stop Crying
2. Mock, Mock, Mockingbird
3. Love Has Laid Me Down
4. Stagger Lee
5. Since I Fell For You
6. Honest Papas Love Their Mamas Better
7. Bye, Bye Baby
8. Motor City Man
9. The More I See You
10. Desiree
11. I Gotta Know

12. What Have You Done With My Love
13. I’m Going To Break My Heart In Two
14. Snowing Me Under
15. Country Boy
16. Lose Me Baby
17. Eddie’s Girl
18. Georgia Rose
19. Diggaroo
20. Just A Little Understanding
21. Early Morning Love

Pre-sale link: www.omnivorerecordings.com/shop/recorded-live-at…terloo-ice-house 

Groundbreaking artists shine on new collections

There is something for just about every listener via a wide range of new releases available this fall.

Artist: Sarah Brightman
Title: HYMN: Sarah Brightman in Concert (Eagle Vision)
You might like if you enjoy: Sarah Brightman, Idina Menzel
Tell me more: A year after Sarah Brightman's 12th studio album Hymn was released, the multi-format companion release HYMN: Sarah Brightman in Concert has been issued and provides a fully immersive experience for fans of the English soprano. Indeed, the visual/audio recording was captured at the Festspielhaus in the Bavarian Alps; the two-act performance features a musical film in the first act followed by a live concert. Brightman's three-octave voice remains a wonder and is used to perfection as she is accompanied by her band as well as the Bavarian Philharmonic Orchestra, a 50-voice choir and the Ludwig Ensemble of dancers. Guest performers on the title include Japanese keyboardist Yoshiki, and singers Vincent Niclo, Mario Frangoulis and Narcis. Brightman's signature vocals hit their mark on the rich mix of material, ranging from classical crossover selections ("Sogni," "Figlio Perduto") to Broadway hits (particularly "Phantom Of The Opera") and rock- and pop-mining selections (Brian May's "Who Wants To Live Forever" and La Bionda's "There For Me"). Beyond the stunning audio and visual featured on the title is the power of the choreography of dancers, use of state-of-the-art lighting and other theatrical effects that add power to the concept film and concert that follows. One of the early highlights of the film is where Brightman performs "Beautiful" near a reflecting pool, and the bending of her image in the creatively-lit water offers an artful look to the performance. Bonus features on the DVD and Blu-ray include behind the scenes footage, interviews and photo galleries. HYMN: Sarah Brightman in Concert is available on DVD+CD, Blu-ray+CD and via digital formats. Information: eagle-rock.com.

Artist: Harry Nilsson
Title: Losst and Founnd (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Randy Newman, Ringo Starr, Jimmy Webb
Tell me more: This year has seen a slew of deluxe reissues, concert recordings and lost treasures, none greater than the final album from legendary singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson. Set for release on Nov. 22, 2019 – more than 25 years after he was struck down by a fatal heart attack at the age of 52 – Nilsson's aptly-titled Losst and Founnd finds the late American artist joined by a number of top-tier guests on nine original songs along with his versions of Yoko Ono's inviting "Listen, the Snow is Falling" and Jimmy Webb's beautiful "What Does a Woman See in a Man." The signature sound that had Nilsson scoring a number of radio hits in the late '60s and early '70s abounds across the new disc, from the New Orleans rhythm and blues romp of "Animal Farm" and infectious title track to the tender "Love is the Answer." Guests on the outstanding album include famed drummer Jim Keltner (Ringo Starr, John Lennnon, George Harrison), pianist Jimmy Webb, bassist Klaus Voormann, and Harry's son Kiefo Nilsson. Album producer Mark Hudson is featured everywhere, contributing vocals, percussion, guitar and bass guitar to the ambitious project; his poignant liner notes add depth to the collection. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: David Ball
Title: Thinkin' Problem (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: George Jones, Merle Haggard, Uncle Walt's Band
Tell me more: The 25th Anniversary edition of singer-songwriter David Ball's 1994 hit album Thinkin' Problem includes all 10 songs from that LP as well as eight bonus tracks adding up to an essential collection celebrating traditional country music. Ball, who had previously been a member of the Austin-based trio Uncle Walt's Band, found much-deserved commercial success with Thinkin' Problem, which featured the title track (his first major hit) as well as subsequent hit singles "When The Thought of You Catches Up With Me," "Look What Followed Me Home," "What Do You Want With This Love" and "Honky Tonk Healin'." Listening to the album in 2019, it's easy to believe that all of the songs could have been radio staples, especially the lovely ballad "12-12-84." The bonus material shines as well, with the sparse 2019 acoustic take of "What Do You Want With This Love," spirited "Give Me Back My Heart" (a 1993 studio demo) and the breezy "Circle of Friends" and "I've Got My Baby On My Mind" among my favorites. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Kinky Friedman
Title: Resurrection (Echo Hill Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson 
Tell me more: Texas-based singer-songwriter Kinky Friedman has released a profound album of original songs that serve as a bona fide reminder of the power of music and song craft. Resurrection is an album that shines a welcome light on Friedman, 73, who is writing and crafting songs that draw on his life experiences along with his ever-keen observations at the world around him. The songs have an authentic and timeless feel to be sure, from the utterly beautiful moodscape he paints on "I Love You When It Rains" and acoustic tapestry of "The Bridge That Wouldn't Burn" to the Latin-flavored "Al! Mariachi," countrified blues of the Kris Kristofferson-flavored "Resurrection" and Texas-styled ballad that looks at a beloved pet ("A Dog in the Sky"). Friedman's deep baritone is the perfect instrument to lead the charge when unleashing his songs, and the album is bolstered by the production talents of Larry Campbell and guest vocals from Willie Nelson on the title track. This is one of 2019's outstanding new albums, one that will resonate as deeply generations from now as it does today. Information: KinkyFriedman.com.

Robert Kinsler