Album Reviews: X, Whitney Rose, Game Theory, Action Skulls

Music fans were recently surprised (and delighted) with the surprise release of a new album from groundbreaking band X, a stunning new album from rising country songstress Whitney Rose, as well as a terrific collection featuring '80s great Game Theory. I also celebrate a latter-day classic from the super group Action Skulls.

The cover artwork for "ALPHABETLAND" pulled from
an original painting by Wayne White, who was set
designer on 'Pee-Wee's Playhouse' for many years.

Artist: X
Title: ALPHABETLAND (Fat Possum Records)
You might like if you enjoy: X, John Doe, early punk rock
Tell me more: Listening to the new X album ALPHABETLAND, it's unbelievable to think this marks the Los Angeles quartet's first new album with their original lineup in 35 years. Released without advance notice on April 23, the music is explosive, raw and powerful, offering up that same potent spirit that marked the essential titles featuring singer Exene Cervenka, co-singer/bassist John Doe, guitarist Billy Zoom and drummer D.J. Bonebrake spanning from 1980's Los Angeles to 1985's Ain't Love Grand! Kicking things off with the driving title track, the signature co-vocals from Cervenka and Doe shimmer in unison over the driving rhythm. The anthemic "Free" soars, its run enhanced by some edgy lead guitar lines from Zoom. The infectious rocker "Strange Life," rapid-fire "Delta 88 Nightmare" and haunting "Angel On The Road" are early standouts. The wonderfully melodic "Cyrano DeBerger's Back" (enhanced by a dance groove and Zoom's saxophone play), raw punk rock blast "Goodbye Year, Goodbye" and poetic spoken word finale "All The Time in The Year" cap this welcome return from one of L.A. great bands. Information: xtheband.com.

Artist: Whitney Rose
Title: We Still Go To Rodeos (McG Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Emmylou Harris, Carlene Carter, Alice Wallace
Tell me more: Country songstress Whitney Rose is back with her latest and decidedly strongest album to date, the wonderful We Still Go To Rodeos. The new album was produced by Paul Kolderie, whose first-rate resume covers the celebrated and far-flung ranks of Radiohead, Uncle Tupelo, Lou Reed, Pixies and Morphine. More importantly, all of the dozen cuts on We Still Go To Rodeos were penned by Rose; the diversity and force of that songwriting certifies the early promise displayed on 2015's Raul Malo-produced Heartbreaker of the Year that served to introduce the talented Rose.  The Austin-based artist's rich and seductive soprano has an alluring radiance, equally deft at commanding uptempo country rockers ("In a Rut," "I'd Rather Be Alone," "Better Man"), mid tempo material ("Believe Me, Angela," "Don't Give Up On Me") and nuanced ballads ("Home With You," "A Hundred Shades of Blue," "Through the Cracks"). The musicianship across the disc is truly stellar; guitar great Gurf Morlix (Lucinda Williams, Warren Zevon), drummer Lisa Pankratz (Dave Alvin, Billy Joe Shaver), bassist Brad Fordham (Jerry Jeff Walker, Dave Alvin) and other notables bring a wealth of command to add to the obvious power of the project. Information: whitneyrosemusic.com.

Artist: Game Theory
Title: Across the Barrier of Sound: Postscript (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Game Theory, The Three O'Clock, Big Star, the Loud Family
Tell me more: History is filled with immensely talented top-tier artists who earned the well-deserved accolade of the music press and a dedicated cult following without scoring much-deserved commercial success. Such was the case with Davis, California-spawned Game Theory, a band led by singer-guitarist Scott Miller that released some of the most eclectic and impressive albums of the 1980s. Following Miller's tragic death at the age of 53 in April 2013, Los Angeles label Omnivore Recordings began issuing a series of deluxe reissue editions of a parade of masterworks from Game Theory; now the band's final chapter (1989-90) never previously showcased outside of some rare tour dates is chronicled via the marvelous just-released Across the Barrier of Sound: Postscript. In addition to Miller, this late edition version of the troupe featured bassist-singer Michael Querico (of The Three O'Clock fame), Gil Ray (guitar, keyboards), and Jozef Becker (drums). Across the Barrier of Sound: Postscript features a total of two dozen tracks including a score of terrific demos, live tracks and home recordings. The compilation opens with a powerful home recording of the Beatles' "All My Loving" where Miller sings the first verse completely a cappella. The driving rocker "My Free Ride," wistful home demo of "Go Back To Sleep Little Susie (Aerodeliria)," psychedelia-laced "Forget All About It" and jangle pop jewel "Inverness" are early collection highlights on the collection. The dreamy pop of "Water," acoustic baroque sortie "Even You," the probing "Some Grand Vision" and fiery acoustic home demo of "Idiot Son" hit their mark with equal potency later on the disc. Among the other winning selections on the fantastic disc is a live version of the Monkees' classic "The Door Into Summer" and radio session recording of Miller covering Alex Chilton's Big Star favorite "Back Of A Car." Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.



LATTER-DAY LOST CLASSIC

The cover artwork for "Angels Hear" was designed
by celebrated actress/artist Angela Cartwright.

Artist: Action Skulls
Title: Angels Hear (CD Baby)
You might like if you enjoy: The Bangles, the Jayhawks, Barnes & Barnes, the Cowsills
Tell me more: Exploring that sonic sweet spot where Americana, power pop, garage rock and alt rock meet, the debut LP from Action Skulls (Angels Hear) is a gem that somehow escaped more widespread attention when it was released in September 2017. A bona fide super group, Action Skulls' featured John Cowsill (a veteran of the Cowsills as well as a current member of Mike Love's The Beach Boys), Bill Mumy (one half of Barnes & Barnes, as well as a famed actor known for several appearances on the original "Twilight Zone" and role as Will Robinson on "Lost in Space"), Vicki Peterson (lead guitarist of the Bangles) and the late Rick "the bass player" Rosas (an in-demand bassist for the likes of Neil Young, Joe Walsh, Buffalo Springfield and Jerry Lee Lewis who passed away from lung disease prior to the release of the disc). This wonderful 11-track album is filled with songs that are intimate, uniformly beautiful and tap into the best strains of classic Laurel Canyon stylings. The jangly Paisley Underground album opener "Mainstream," soaring "If I See You in Another World," Baroque pop "Faith Waltz," country-flavored "Feed My Hungry Heart" (bolstered by some killer harmonies) and stunning album closer "The Land of Dreams" resonate as much today as when the album was released. Although the physical edition appears to no longer be available, listeners can get the wonderful album via digital / mp3 online. Information: amazon.com.



Robert Kinsler

RIP John Prine - the music world mourns the legend

Bonnie Raitt, left, with John Prine at the 2020 Grammys' Lifetime
Achievement Awards on January 26, 2020.
Photo courtesy of the Recording Academy.

Post by Robert Kinsler

A week after the world lost Adam Schlesinger, now comes the terrible news that COVID-19 has also taken John Prine. The two-time Grammy winner was 73. He died earlier today (April 7, 2020) at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Earlier this year the legendary artist was recognized with one of the Grammys' Lifetime Achievement awards. He was paid tribute by the great Bonnie Raitt, who performed an acoustic version of Prine's classic "Angel From Montgomery" in homage.

"My friend John Prine, who is sitting right over there, wrote 'Angel From Montgomery' and so many other songs that changed my life," Raitt rhapsodized following the performance, while Prine was given a standing ovation in the audience. "I love you, John."

I loved Prine's set when I last caught him at the Stagecoach Festival in Indio, CA in spring 2014. 

Noted long-time Los Angeles Times music writer Robert Hilburn just tweeted out, speaking for many: "It's a heartbreaking night for all of us who've loved John Prine's music for all these years. RIP. He was 73. On the very top shelf of American songwriters."

The band Dawes also responded to his passing: "RIP John Prine. Thanks for being so much more than we could ever deserve." 

John Prine performing at the Stagecoach Festival.

Songstress Whitney Rose also reacted: "Thank you, John. You raised the bar in every way. Rest in power knowing that you changed the world for the better." 

Roger McGuinn wrote: "Peace John Prine. He was a major influence in my life and a fellow student at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago. His storytelling ability was amazing!" 


Tweeted Peter Holsapple: "We have lost a giant. Rest In Peace." 

The official account for the Stagecoach Festival spoke for many this evening: "One of the best there ever was. Love you forever John." 

John Fogerty acknowledged the tremendous loss: "Rest In Peace, John Prine. You're in paradise now." 

Bruce Springsteen wrote: "Over here on E Street, we are crushed by the loss of John Prine. John and I were "New Dylans" together in the early 70s and he was never anything but the loveliest guy in the world. A true national treasure and a songwriter for the ages. We send our love and prayers to his family." 

Bonnie Raitt tweeted following the loss of her good friend: "Words can't even come close. I'm crushed by the loss of my dear friend, John. My heart and love go out to Fiona and all the family. For all of us whose hearts are breaking, we will keep singing his songs and holding him near." 

RECORDING ACADEMY® STATEMENT REGARDING JOHN PRINE TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2020

We join the world in mourning the passing of revered country and folk singer/songwriter John Prine. John earned 11 GRAMMY® nominations and received two GRAMMY Awards® for Best Contemporary Folk Album, one for The Missing Years at the 34th GRAMMYs® and another for Fair & Square at the 48th GRAMMYs. His self-titled debut album was inducted into the GRAMMY Hall Of Fame® in 2015, and just recently he was announced as a 2020 Recording Academy® Lifetime Achievement Award recipient for his contributions to music during his nearly five-decade career. Widely lauded as one of the most influential songwriters of his generation, John’s impact will continue to inspire musicians for years to come. We send our deepest condolences to his loved ones. Harvey Mason jr. Interim President/CEO Recording Academy “We were saddened to learn of John Prine’s passing, the loss of a true American treasure. He was admired both for his art and for his sheer humanity.  He had a nobility that radiated liked a million watt radio station just across the border. We last crossed paths at the Memphis Music Hall of Fame ceremony where he inducted Cowboy Jack Clement and we got to do the honors for Roy Orbison.  We greeted each other warmly and I vividly recall passing a most pleasant time with the genuine article.  Never to be forgotten.”  - Billy F Gibbons “In the summer of 1973, days after I’d seen my first rock concert (Grand Funk Railroad), Steve Leder, my friend and band mate, took me downstairs to his teen lair and played me John Prine’s “Dear Abby.” “Whaddya think,” he asked. ‘Country’ I thought. ‘I hate country.’ Steve picked up the needle and played the song again. And once more after that. I started to hear something in those lyrics; John Prine was speaking to me. He was wry, he made me smile, he was doing something different. It wasn’t Grand Funk. It wasn’t Alice Cooper or The Rolling Stones either. With just his acoustic guitar and a ragged voice it became clear that you didn’t need stacks of Marshall amps to blow people away. You needed only to mine the minutiae of living and take careful notes to make people feel the weight of their humanity.” - Peter Himmelman "My world, the world of songwriters and guitar pickers, is reeling from the death of John Prine yesterday. We labor at our craft in hopes we can attain some vague approximation of the easy genius of his songs. John Lennon said the artist’s role is as “a reflection of us all,” and no one did that with as much facility as Prine, in my opinion. From Mr. Peabody’s coal train to a poster of an old rodeo to hammering nails in planks to hair so unnaturally curled, any listener could relate to his characters and his takes on love and life. There was a plain generality to it, but it was filled with so many tiny bejeweled details that addressed the specific as well. And oh, the emotion from that road-worn beat-up voice. The real thing in every respect. We are left with a catalog of his songs, a phalanx of his albums and minds full of memories to assuage this loss as best we can. It’s so vast, yet I think we all hoped for even more from John, had his life not been cut short. We will have to learn to be satisfied with what we have and to revel in all of it. We hoped for a miracle that did not come for John; and when it didn’t happen, he accidentally became someone in one of his own songs." - The dB's Peter Holsapple “More than once, I saw Prine get so tickled with himself he couldn’t keep his teeth in his mouth, the grin would overtake him, but he’d keep talking anyway. I remember him pointing at the TV screen one night in the early nineties. The news was showing clips of the crowd at a folk festival that had taken place that afternoon and the people looked like they were trying to re-create Woodstock, headbands, tie dye, the usual. Prine said, ‘Look at them out there trying to be hippies. There’s not a cavity in that whole crowd. I never met a hippie chick didn’t have a mouth full of rotten teeth.’ John Prine was a realist.” —James McMurtry "My first ever live concert at the esteemed ‘mother church’  The Ryman Auditorium was John Prine...and I sat there like a school kid waiting for the spring break bell, I was so excited...he did all his greatest hits, but at that time (around 1995)...he was especially pushing his newest body of work, Lost Dogs and Mixed Blessings. I believe I had a spiritual awakening when I heard him and his full band do 'Lake Marie' for the first time, in THAT venue. I mean, my soul shook. Funny thing is, I still feel that way EVERY time I hear it now, long after....just like I do when I hear Ain’t Hurtin Nobody. All the Way with You. We Are the Lonely.   I Love you So Much It Hurts and This Love is Real. There’s not a weak song on the whole damn record, but then....that was John. He was one of those lyrical untouchables, but every word, every single word, reached out and touched you. He was the apidimi of real. All those great songs, all those great records, such a lovely man...such a gentle soul. Good God!!!  We cried in our kitchen tonight when we found out he’d passed away. Matt and I both realized we’d only met him once each, but both experiences equally important enough to remember for life. John remembered your name. He made such tender-hearted eye contact,  he shook your hand and made you feel like you were long lost family. He wasn’t a show-boater or a grand-stander and he didn’t seem like he had much use for those that were.  He wrote simple songs with fairly simple chords about real life things, but NOBODY could do em like he could. You could tell he had a mind that was deep as the deepest well and that’s why writing simple songs is so complex. It’s flat out hard to say the same ol’ thing and make it sound new, fresh, genuine, and poetic. John Prine was one of my all time favorite poets. The world will be one less honorable and talented man going forward. One less legend. Selfishly, I’d just wished I’d have gotten to sit and share lunch with him at his favorite meat and three where we met once, and visit a spell....or sing a duet with him....and watch him do his thing from a few feet away, I’ll always be a little extra sad about that. I wish love and support to his wife Fiona and his family during this confusing time in our universe. Bless you all.  One of the all time favorite quotes from the movie Daddy and Them was a line John so perfectly and timely delivered “Don’t never let it be too late...” John Prine, you were right on time, and you touched the hearts of every set of ears that got to hear you. Until we meet again, I look forward to that lunch." - Heidi Newfield  “John Prine was one of the most introspective songwriters of our time.  I was introduced to John Prine’s songs while on Navy leave in a small club in Charleston, SC. many years ago. Songs like “Dear Abbey” and “Sam Stone” drew me in as a fan of great lyrics. But “Hello In There” and “Angel From Montgomery” stole my heart and became my favorites. John Prine not only inspired me to be a songwriter, but to want to be a better songwriter. I’m still working on that...  Rest In Peace John.” - Ruthie Foster Read an outstanding remembrance of Prine's life and art just published in American Songwriter here. Finally, watch a moving October 1, 2019 performance of Prine performing "Summer's End" backstage at the John Anson Ford Theater:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Robert Kinsler

Discover new music: Arcade Fire, Elbow, Whitney Rose, Hans Zimmer

Wonderful new releases highlighting groundbreaking Canadian art rock ensemble Arcade Fire, British alternative rock outfit Elbow, Americana songstress Whitney Rose and composer Hans Zimmer are among the strongest releases of early 2017.

Artist: Arcade Fire
Title: The Reflektor Tapes (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: Arcade Fire, U2, David Bowie 
Tell me more: With more than four hours of content, Arcade Fire's The Reflektor Tapes is simply a dream come true for fans of the seminal Canadian rock ensemble. The terrific release (available on blu-ray as well as a 2DVD release, the latter reviewed here) is anchored by The Reflektor Tapes, an insightful two-hour documentary directed by Kahlil Joseph about the making of Arcade Fire's acclaimed 2013 No. 1 Billboard album Reflektor. While that film fills one disc, the second disc features a fantastic full-length concert filmed at Earl's Court in London on June 6, 2014, captured during the band's Reflektor tour. Additionally, that disc features bonus features including promo videos and director's cut tracks of "Flashbulb Eyes," "Here Comes the Night Time," "Reflektor," "Sprawl II" and "The Suburbs." Information: eagle-rock.com.

Artist: Elbow
Title: Little Fictions (Concord Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Elbow, Peter Gabriel, Keane 
Tell me more: Elbow's Little Fictions is one of the first important masterworks of 2017. The expansive textures across the album enthrall, always bringing infinite depth and beauty to singer Guy Garvey's literate and engaging lyrics. On the sweeping string section-enriched "Magnificent (She Says)" he sings "The echoes slow to nothing on the tide / And where a tiny pair of hands / Finds a sea worn piece of glass / And sets it as sapphire in her mind / And there she stands." The 10-song"Little Fictions" is filled with songs that are simply magnificent, with the tranquil  "Gentle Storm," hypnotic "Trust The Sun," intimate "Montparnasse" and luxuriant "Kindling" among the glorious tracks that immerse the listener. Information: concordmusicgroup.com.

Artist: Whitney Rose
Title: South Texas Suite (Six Shooter Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Nikki Lane, Lindi Ortega, Patsy Cline
Tell me more: Austin-based songstress Whitney Rose's new six-track EP South Texas Suite boasts a wonderful sound that recalls classic country singers Patsy Cline and Kitty Wells, yet also bristles with the energy of modern day artists such as Nashville's Nikki Lane and Lindi Ortega. The playful "Three Minute Love Affair" is bolstered by a accordion and Rose's own sweet soprano; "My Boots" starts with the artist singing acapella before the band comes in on a spirited old school country romp. The original ballad "Lookin' Back On Luckenbach" is a beautiful ballad, fully displaying Rose's lovely and distinctive voice. Rose in scheduled to perform at Don The Beachcomber in Huntington Beach, CA on Saturday, March 4, 2017. Information: WhitneyRoseMusic.com.

Artist: Hans Zimmer
Title: The Classics (Sony Classical)
You might like if you enjoy: Hans Zimmer's soundtracks, Lindsey Stirling, Lang Lang 
Tell me more: One of the most popular and gifted composers working in Hollywood today, Hans Zimmer has scored countless popular movies since the mid-1980s. Now Sony Classical has issued a special collection, The Classics, that showcases some of the German composer's best-known works with versions that feature well-known guests bringing new dimensions to his movie themes. Violinist Lindsey Stirling adds firepower to "The Dark Knight Rises: Main Theme," the popular Piano Guys bring a buoyant touch to "Themes From Pirates of the Caribbean" and pianist Lang Lang is featured on "Gladiator Rhapsody" and later on "Man of Steel: Flight." Hans Zimmer will bring his highly-anticipated "Hans Zimmer Revealed" live tour to the upcoming Coachella festival in Indio on Sunday, April 16 and again on Sunday, April 23, 2017.  Information: hans-zimmer.com.

Robert Kinsler

Masterworks fuel winning crop of new releases

Lovers of authentic Americana, blues and roots music, funk, as well as of the late Grammy- and Academy Award-winning composer James Horner all have reason to celebrate thanks to an outstanding crop of 2015 releases available this summer.

Artist: Michael Ubaldini
Title: Songster – The Acoustic Reels (Blackwater Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Steve Earle, Johnny Cash, Walter Clevenger, Bob Dylan

Tell me more: Discerning fans of the burgeoning Americana movement have been rightfully encouraged by the success of a slew of talented newcomers but worry about the parade of unceasing acts whose slick approach (notably Milk Carton Kids and the Lumineers) threaten the movement's delightfully-authentic rough edges that are at odds with modern country's cliché-heavy approach. Leave it to alternative Americana hero Michael Ubaldini to strip things down to their acoustic underpinnings, using nothing more than an acoustic guitar, harmonica and his emotive baritone to set free a mix of new originals, as well as reworked  standouts from his own rich discography and revisited traditional songs (the Celtic "Handsome Molly" and biting folk nugget "The Cuckoo") on the ambitious 21-track Songster – The Acoustic Reels. Ubaldini is never less than both literate and artful with his lyrical approach as evidenced by the playful "Jean Harlow," bona fide celebration of romance ("Sweet ole Riddle"), beautiful expression of loss ("Rosewood Night"), defiance and perseverance ("Walk Through Fire") and probing look at America's endangered freedoms ("Money, Bible and a Gun"). Information: rocknrollpoet.com.

Purchase 'Songster' -the Acoustic Reels today

Artist: Rock Candy Funk Party
Title: Groove Is King (J&R Adventures)

You might like if you enjoy: Daft Punk, Mark Ronson, Prince, Joe Bonamassa

Tell me more: Music rarely gets funkier or grooves harder than the joyous Rock Candy Funk Party sophomore effort Groove Is King. Blending rock, funk, electronica, jazz, and R&B across its 16 tracks, RCFP offers up a mostly instrumental affair over its 70+ minute run; the wonderful exception is an amazing reworking of Peter Gabriel's "Digging in the Dirt" where Zia offers up some vocal shadings. Fans of guitar great Joe Bonamassa will want to wrap their ears around "Uber Station," where Bonamassa's masterful fret work is featured amidst the heavy grooves and a soulful horn section (featuring Randy Brecker, Ada Rovatti and James Campagnola); his graceful work on the heretofore noted "Digging in the Dirt" and speedy jazz licks on "Rock Candy" are a wonder. Everywhere the music making is outstanding, with performances that technically dazzle while simultaneously motivating the listener to move. The physical edition of the album comes with a bonus DVD that includes 50 minutes of in-studio footage of RCFP. Information: rockcandyfunkparty.com.

Buy 'Groove Is King [CD/DVD Combo]' here

 

Artist: Lynyrd Skynyrd (and guests)
Title: One More For the Fans (Loud & Proud Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Lynyrd Skynyrd, Peter Frampton, Robert Randolph, Gregg Allman, Cheap Trick

Tell me more: A full-length concert featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd and a cast of acclaimed guests was staged in Atlanta, GA on Nov. 12, 2014, and has now been thankfully released via a must-have deluxe package including the event presented on two audio CDs and on DVD. While the highlight may well be the band itself delivering an incredible marathon-length take of "Free Bird," the rest of the 19-track set is pure joy. Imagine no more what it would be like for power-pop greats Cheap Trick to tackle Skynyrd; the quartet delivers a fiery version of "Gimme Back My Bullets." Later Gov't Mule powers through an emotionally-charged Southern Rock-styled "Simple Man" while country great Jamey Johnson offers up a bluesy "Four Walls Of Raiford." Peter Frampton offers up great fretwork and top-flight vocals on a version of "Call Me The Breeze." Other sterling performances come courtesy of Alabama ("Gimme Three Steps") and Gregg Allman ("Tuesday's Gone"). Information: loudandproudrecords.com.

Buy 'One More For The Fans' here

Artist: James Horner

Title: Southpaw (Sony Classical)

You might like if you enjoy: James Horner's previous soundtracks 

Tell me more: Whether enveloping the listener with tense and unsettling soundscapes ("The Preparations," "A Fatal Tragedy," "A Cry for Help") or touching our emotions at the deepest of levels ("A More Normal Life," "Dream Crusher," "The Funeral, Alone…"), composer James Horner's Southpaw is a compelling listen for lovers of modern-day soundtracks and contemporary symphonic music. With its mix of traditional orchestral layers and electronica textures (just listen to "Suicidal Rampage"), Southpaw demonstrates Horner's unique ability to bring additional depth in support of diverse film projects. Sadly, following the completion of this soundtrack, Horner died at the age of 61 when the single-engine plane he was piloting crashed into the Los Padres National Forest in Southern California on June 22, 2015. Among Horner's best-known scores were Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn (1982), Aliens (1986), Titanic (1995) and Avatar (2009). Information: sonyclassical.com.
Purchase 'Southpaw (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)' here

Artist: The Pinder Brothers
Title: Melancholy Sea (Inner World Music)

You might like if you enjoy: The Fray, Ben Folds 5, America

Tell me more: Although The Pinder Brothers' wonderful 11-song Melancholy Sea was released in winter, the duo's bright melodic rock sound is ideally suited to summer. From the wistful "Same Mistake" (whose sound spans folk rock to psychedelia along its run) to the longing "Driving You Home," brothers Michael Lee Pinder and Matt Pinder have an innate instinct how to meld infectious melodies with heartfelt song craft. The lyrics, straightforward and earnest, are delivered amidst nice harmonies and creative arrangements. Information: pinderbrothers.com.

Get 'Melancholy Sea' here

Artist: Blinddog Smokin'
Title: High Steppin' (Silver Talon Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Billy Branch, Bobby Rush, Boxing Gandhis

Tell me more: Although high-powered funk collective Blinddog Smokin' earned a well-deserved Grammy nomination for 2014's Decisions (a collaboration with legendary soul-blues singer Bobby Rush), the seven-member troupe is still deserving of plenty more attention. The newly-released High Steppin' disc might just be the ticket. The nine-track LP is an inviting addition to the group's strong discography. The range of material is wide, with the songs all hitting the mark. Highlights include the infectious funk blast "Pimp Shoes," heavy Chicago blues song "Tell 'Em Shuffle" (featuring some incredible blues harmonica work from Carl Gustafson), New Orleans-styled "Don't Put No Money On Me," and the emotive "If I Died Today." Information: silvertalonrecords.com.

Get' High Steppin' ' today

Artists: B.B. King & Eric Clapton

Title: Riding With The King (Audio Fidelity)

You might like if you enjoy: Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Robert Johnson

Tell me more: Originally released in June 2000, Riding With The King was the first –and ultimately only – full-length studio collaboration teaming blues greats B.B. King and Eric Clapton. With Riley B. King's death in May 2015, the sterling reissue of the dozen-track collection via Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity label as a limited edition Hybrid SACD (that plays on all SACD and CD players) is worth discovering again (or for the first time). The set originally earned the 2000 Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album, and time has only amplified the strength of the material and performances captured on the disc. Among the gems on the album are a rollicking cover of John Hiatt's "Riding With The King" featuring King and Clapton sharing lead and harmony vocals, King's original blues ballad "Ten Long Years," the buoyant rockabilly-styled "Days of Old" and the heartfelt "Marry You." Information: audiofidelity.net.
Purchase Riding With The King directly via the Audio Fidelity Web site here

Artist: Lindi Ortega

Title: Faded Gloryville (Last Gang Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Nikki Lane, Whitney Rose, Emmylou Harris

Tell me more: When Lindi Ortega sings the title track on her most recent album Faded Gloryville, the songstress is recounting her own path while also singing for the countless other great artists who have created an amazing body of work while working mostly under the radar. A singer and songwriter of incredible depth, the Canadian native now based in Nashville had released a trio of albums before Faded Gloryville that earned uniformly-strong critical acclaim but failed to bring her much-deserved commercial success. Faded Gloryville continues to cast a bright light on the talented Ortega; the Juno Award winner has a voice capable of mining the deepest of emotions as evidenced by the confessional "Ashes," tender "Someday Soon" and a remarkable version of the Bee Gees' 1967 hit "To Love Somebody." Fusing rockabilly, alt country, folk and Americana into an original soundscape is the final masterstroke in Ortega's winning approach on the wonderful Faded Gloryville. Information: LindiOrtega.com.
Purchase 'Faded Gloryville' here


Artist: Whitney Rose
Title: Heartbreaker of the Year (Cameron House Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, Kacey Musgraves
Tell me more: Produced by celebrated Mavericks frontman Raul Malo, singer-songwriter Whitney Rose's sophomore album Heartbreaker of the Year (available on Aug. 21, 2015) is a beautiful collection that straddles the worlds of neo-traditional country and classic girl group-styled '60s pop. There are gorgeous authentic country ballads ("The Last Party," "Lasso"), spirited pop-rock ("Little Piece Of You," "Only Just A Dream"), tunes that blend both styles ("My First Rodeo," "Ain't It Wise"), a touch of country blues ("The Devil Borrowed My Boots") and a captivating cover of the Ronnettes' "Be My Baby" featuring Rose trading vocals with Ralo's tenor - all delivered with a contemporary energy that both celebrates and defies the wealth of retro influences that add luster to the rich collection. Information: whitneyrosemusic.com.

Purchase 'Heartbreaker of the Year' here