2021 Music-minded gift guide: The Beatles, Chris Church, Eric Clapton, Buck Owens & Susan Raye, Chris Jagger, more!

Looking for that perfect gift for the favorite music lover in your life? Here is a roundup of some of my favorite music-minded recommendations for 2021. I also highlight a holiday classic that honors a recently-lost icon.

Book Title: The Beatles: Get Back

Authors: Peter Jackson, The Beatles, Hanif Kureishi, John Harris

Publisher: Callaway Arts & Entertainment

Hardcover: 240 pages

You might like if you enjoy: The Beatles, rock and roll photography, music documentary films

Tell me more: The official account of the making of The Beatles' final album Let It Be (released in 1970), the newly-published "The Beatles: Get Back" is an essential addition to any fan of the Fab Four. Filled with remembrances from members of The Beatles, "Get Back" along with director/co-producer Peter Jackson and other notables, the lavish hardcover volume is adorned with terrific photographs taken by Ethan A. Russell and Linda McCartney (the latter the first female photographer to shoot the cover of Rolling Stone magazine). Anyone who has enjoyed the 8-hour docuseries "Get Back" on Disney Plus will want to get this wonderful hardcover edition. "The Beatles: Get Back" is available at Barnes and Noble stores across the U.S. as well as via amazon.com. Information: BarnesAndNoble.com and Amazon.com. 

Artist: Chris Church

Titles: Backwards Compatible; Limitations Of Source Tape (Big Stir Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Chris Church, power pop, melodic rock

Tell me more: Big Stir Records and SpyderPop Records have issued a special double installment of several titles from Chris Church — 2020's Backwards Compatible and 2017's Limitations Of Source Tape. North Carolina-based singer-songwriter Church crafts recordings that recall the spirit of greats such as Cheap Trick, Fountains of Wayne and early Gin Blossoms but bolstered by his own signature imprint. Among the epic tracks I've enjoyed from this double-album display are the rocking "Dumb It Up," shimmering "Begin Again," crunchy "Kiss It Goodnight" and "Understudy Blues," and swirling "Bell The Cat." Church is definitely an artist worth discovering and sharing with other music lovers. Information: BigStirRecords.com.

 

Artist: Eric Clapton

Title: The Lady in the Balcony: Lockdown Sessions (Mercury Studios)

You might like if you enjoy: Eric Clapton, British blues

Tell me more: When Eric Clapton was forced to cancel several Royal Albert Hall concerts because of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2021, the legendary singer-songwriter/guitarist brought his band to the English countryside. Since no audience was able to attend, Clapton along with bassist-vocalist Nathan East, drummer Steve Gadd and keyboardist Chris Stainton performed in front of the cameras at Cowdray House in West Sussex, England. Highlights from those intimate recordings are featured on "The Lady in the Balcony: Lockdown Sessions." Not only does the title feature incredible audio and visual quality, but the performances are sure to please fans of one of rock's greatest and most influential artists. There is a rich mix of Clapton originals and other selections including blues and country nuggets across the 17-track collection. In the first few selections, Clapton plays a 12-string guitar, including on the beautiful "Golden Ring" and "Black Magic Woman" (Clapton introduces the latter by saying "This one's for Peter," referencing songwriter Peter Green who sadly died in October 2020). Even in the acoustic-styled setting Clapton and company are able to deliver some pretty dynamic performances; both Clapton and Stainton solo during uptempo runs through "After Midnight" and "Rock Me Baby." The emotion is palpable in riveting performances of "River of Tears," the instrumental "Kerry" and "Tears in Heaven." And the talented troupe has a blast when Clapton switches to an electric instrument to run through the blues classics "Long Distance Call," "Bad Boy," and "Got My Mojo Working." The Lady in the Balcony: Lockdown Sessions is available on DVD+CD (the configuration reviewed here), Blu-ray+CD, 4K UHD+Blu-ray, 2 LPs pressed on yellow vinyl, and a Deluxe Edition containing the DVD, Blu-ray and audio CD packaged in a 40-page 12-inch by 12-inch hardback photo book, digital video and digital audio. Information: EricClapton.com.

Book Title: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back

Author: Miles A. Copeland III

Publisher: Jawbone Press

Softcover: 336 pages

You might like if you enjoy: Popular music in the 1970s and '80s; the music industry

Tell me more: "Two Steps Forward, One Step Back" is music industry giant Miles A Copeland's journey as a manager, promoter, label owner and taste maker. The story spans his childhood spent in the Middle East — where Copeland grew up with his father (a CIA agent stationed in Syria, Egypt and Lebanon) — to London in the late 1960s to his seminal role managing The Police (featuring his brother Stewart Copeland) and ultimately founding the highly-influential IRS Records and through to the here and now. Copeland's writing style is clear and he really brings clarity to the printed page when recalling events (such as Sting's reasoning to go solo leading to the demise of The Police) will thrill music fans. The book also has 16 pages of historical photographs, including many of the author with the music stars he helped champion. Information: Quarto.com. 

Artist: Buck Owens & Susan Raye

Title: Together Again (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Dwight Yoakam, Buck Owens, Susan Raye

Tell me more: Released on Dec. 10, the outstanding new compilation Together Again gathers timeless songs recorded by Buck Owens and Susan Raye between 1970 and 1975. There are 22 tracks on the Bakersfield country-mining collection including 10 solo performances featuring Raye and a full dozen duets on the set. The range and strength of the material shines at every turn. The Owens-penned title track is a beautiful and tender duet, showcasing how wonderfully their voices blended together. Other outstanding tracks on "Together Again" include the lively "Fooling' Around," affecting love song "High As The Mountains," infectious "Love's Gonna Live Here" and buoyant "I Don't Care (Just As Long As You Love Me)." Just listen to how Owens and Raye join voices so magically on "Think Of Me" and their lasting hits "The Great White Horse," "Love Is Strange" and "Togetherness." Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Author/Artist: Chris Jagger

Album Title: Mixing Up The Medicine (BMG Records)

Book Title: Talking To Myself (BMG Books; 376 pages)

You might like if you enjoy: The Rolling Stones, rock and roll photography, tell-all books

Tell me more: Chris Jagger is the younger brother of Mick Jagger, so it should come as no surprise that the Englishman has plenty to say and — what's more — talent to spare. His new autobiography "Talking To Myself" is a terrific read; he also has a new album Mixing Up The Medicine that will allow new fans (including yours truly) to discover more about an artist up to the task of living in the shadow of one of the most iconic rock and roll notables ever. Chris Jagger's book "Talking To Myself" takes readers back to his family's history, with revealing details about their beginnings and plenty of photos too. Even more eventful are his stories of late 1960s counterculture London, extensive travels through Southeast Asia and his musical journeys. His new album Mixing Up The Medicine includes the uptempo R&B delights "Anyone Seen My Heart" (featuring great guest vocals from his brother Mick) and "Merry Go Round," the bluesy "Loves' Horn" and genre-blending "Hey Brother." Information: ChrisJaggerOnline.com. 

HOLIDAY CLASSIC

Artist: The Monkees
Title: Christmas Party (Rhino Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Monkees, Michael Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, Peter Tork
Tell me more: Following the death of Michael Nesmith on Dec. 10, 2021, I immediately started playing one of my favorite holiday music classics, the Monkees' Christmas Party. The final official release featuring the popular group (the album was released in October 2018), the disc truly captures the magic of the Monkees' most beloved recordings of the 1960s. The album features a mix of classic seasonal favorites, artful remakes and newly-penned songs that make for one of the most inviting sets of the season. Gems fill this sparkling collection; the Andy Partridge-penned "Unwrap You At Christmas" is bolstered by a sweet string section and soaring vocals from Micky Dolenz. Nesmith's affecting vocals add just the right moodscape to a wistful cover of Mel Torme's "The Christmas Song." A shimmering cover of the Alex Chilton-penned Big Star classic "Jesus Christ" and lush version of Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime" are reworked enough to make them essential. Several of the late Davy Jones' vocal tracks are used on the disc, including a lovely "Silver Bells." Peter Tork uses his rich baritone and skills on the banjo in a poignant Americana-styled version of "Angels We Have Heard On High." Among this writer's favorite tracks are the instantly-infectious "What Would Santa Do," a melodic rocker written by Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo that takes a playful swipe at those who can't get into the Christmas spirit; "House of Broken Gingerbread" is another killer new cut (this one penned by album producer Adam Schlesinger and Michael Chabon), a potent and tuneful modern rocker. Information: monkees.com. 

Robert Kinsler

Christone "Kingfish" Ingram announces additional 2022 U.S. Tour Dates

Exciting news for fans of bona fide star Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, who has just announced a new series of tour dates beginning in March 2022. I caught the amazing young singer-songwriter/guitar great at The Coach House three months ago (read my review of the show HERE). If you can, make sure to check "Kingfish" out in concert in 2022...Robert Kinsler

Christone "Kingfish" Ingram performing at The Coach
House in San Juan Capistrano, CA on Sept. 10, 2021.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

CHRISTONE "KINGFISH" INGRAM ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL 2022 U.S. TOUR DATES Blues Phenom to Make Apollo Theater Debut in New York City; Will Hit Austin, Dallas, New Orleans, Philadelphia and More

Grammy Award Nomination  — "Best Contemporary Blues Album" #1 Best Blues Album Of 2021 —MOJO Christone "Kingfish" Ingram represents the next generation of great American blues artists. —PBS NewsHour   Ingram plays guitar with dramatic, searing tone and sure-handed authority. And that's just in the studio; he's even scarier live. —NPR Music Christone "Kingfish" Ingram has already made his mark as one of the best, and undoubtedly most exciting, blues guitarists in the world. —Guitar World Kingfish’s talent is almost otherworldly for his age. Seeing him play is almost a bewitching thing as his fingers fly across the strings of a guitar as deftly as Dr. Strange conjures a spell. He has entranced the music world. —Afropunk

Today, Tuesday, December 14, Clarksdale, Mississippi's own Christone "Kingfish" Ingram announced additional dates for his 2022 tour in support of his Grammy-nominated, critically and popularly acclaimed Alligator album, 662. Entitled Christone "Kingfish" Ingram Presents 662: Juke Joint Live, the tour is a partnership with Nashville-based Outback Presents, and will take the 22-year-old guitarist, vocalist and songwriter across the country with dates beginning March 2022 and going through May. According to Ingram, “I’m very excited to continue my ‘662 Juke Joint Live’ tour and to partner with Outback Presents to reach current and new fans in larger, more iconic music venues across the country. Just like a Mississippi juke joint, these shows will be high-energy, jumping, and lots of fun.” Mike Smardak, President of Outback Presents, is equally excited, saying, "We are thrilled to be working with Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and his team. Christone is a rising star and we see great potential and countless opportunities in his future. We are thankful for the opportunity.” New dates include New York City’s legendary Apollo Theater, where Kingfish will make his debut as a headliner, as well as performances in Dallas, Philadelphia, Austin, and more. Full tour schedule is below.

Upon its July 2021 release, 662 (named for the telephone area code of Ingram's northern Mississippi home) debuted at #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart, and it's remained on the chart ever since. NPR's Morning Edition ran a 7-minute feature on release day. Tastemaker UK magazine MOJO named 662 the #1 Best Blues Album of 2021 calling it "an exceptional album" filled with "astonishing creativity." Influential website Under The Radar said, "Kingfish is one of the torchbearers for the blues." On radio, 662 quickly became one of the biggest contemporary blues crossover albums of the year, receiving massive airplay on NPR-affiliated stations and SiriusXM. 662 also topped numerous radio format charts, cracking the top 20 on the North American College and Community Chart (and hitting #1 on its Blues Chart). It spent three months at #1 on the influential Living Blues Radio Chart, and also excelled on both Nielsen's Adult Album Alternative Chart and The Americana Music Association’s Singles and Album Charts. Additionally, 662 appeared at or near the top of the major international blues charts in Australia, France and the UK.   662 was recorded in Nashville and co-written and produced by Grammy-winner Tom Hambridge. It features 13 songs (and one previously released bonus track) displaying many sides of Ingram’s personality, as well as his one-of-a-kind guitar and vocal skills. According to Ingram, "662 is an ode to my roots, a nod to the area where I was born and raised. The title track, 662, encompasses how a small corner of the earth influenced my view of life and music. It also points to the growth I have had since my debut album. As much as I have been fortunate to get 'Outside Of This Town' (the title of his breakout single from his 2019 Grammy-nominated debut album, Kingfish), I do want people to know that the '662' will always be a major part of who I am."

Concert Review: John Mayall, Walter Trout thrill blues rock fans at The Coach House

 

John Mayall at The
Coach House.

Who: Walter Trout, John Mayall

Where: The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA

When: Friday, Dec. 10, 2021

Next: John Mayall is performing a series of "Final Shows" including a trio of forthcoming Saturday night concerts at The Coach House on Jan. 29, Feb. 26 and March 26, 2022. Visit www.TheCoachHouse.com to secure tickets for any of these dates.

Information on upcoming Walter Trout concert dates: https://www.waltertrout.com/tour-dates

Review by Robert Kinsler

Photography by Bob Steshetz

John Mayall behind his keyboards at The Coach House.

Two blues rock giants shared the bill at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Friday night, bringing a true celebration of the enduring genre to an enthusiastic and packed house.

John Mayall performed a full-length set before Orange County's own Walter Trout took the stage to cap the night. 

From left, Greg Rzab, Jay Davenport, John Mayall and Carolyn Wonderland.

Mayall, who celebrated his 88th birthday last month but looks considerably younger, has a long legacy of recruiting top-tier players who enhance his recordings and live performances. Guitarists Eric Clapton, Peter Green (Fleetwood Mac), Mick Taylor (The Rolling Stones) and the aforementioned Trout all got their first major taste of international fame performing with Mayall. Indeed, as great as Mayall's talents as singer and keyboardist were on Friday night, the collective power of drummer Jay Davenport, bassist Greg Rzab and guitarist Carolyn Wonderland brought additional firepower to the 80-minute outing.

Guitarist Carolyn Wonderland impressing
the crowd throughout the night.

The opening cut — a rollicking cover of Curtis Salgado's "The Sum of Something" — immediately thrust the crowd into Mayall's time-honed British blues rock sound. The eight-minute foray featured Mayall's work on the keyboards and a long dramatic guitar solo from Wonderland; Rzab and Davenport were razor sharp with their rhythm section work.

Other early highlights of Mayall's set included the dance floor-ready jaunt "Movin' Groovin' Blues" (with Wonderland getting a huge ovation at the end of her tasty and artful lead guitar solo), a Louisiana soaked take on Clifton Chenier's "Why Did You Go Last Night" (featuring Mayall and Wonderland on tandem vocals) and a rousing cover of Blind Willie Johnson's "It's Nobody's Fault but Mine" featuring Wonderland on lead vocals.

Late set standouts included an inspired reading of the Lionel Hampton classic "Ridin' on the L & N," the ambitious marathon-length "California" complete with dazzling solo turns for all four musicians and the blasting British blues rocker "Ain't No Guarantees."

Guitarist Walter Trout headlining at The Coach House on Dec. 10, 2021.

Trout, 70, was obviously thrilled to be performing back before a hometown crowd (he lives in nearby Huntington Beach) and delivered a powerful 90-minute set anchored by songs pulled from his winning albums that have been issued since he received a second lease on life via a successful liver transplant in May 2014.

From left, Teddy "Zig Zag" Andreadis, Walter Trout, Johnny Griparic and
Mike Leasure performing at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA.

As outstanding as Trout's virtuoso guitar work, poignant lead vocals and confessional original songs are on his albums, he is even more impressive in concert. That was clear across his 11-song set at The Coach House. After taking the stage at 10 p.m., Trout and his terrific band (keyboardist-harmonica player Teddy "Zig Zag" Andreadis, drummer Mike Leasure and bassist Johnny Griparic) tore into "I Can Tell" introduced by a flat-out amazing guitar solo. 

Before performing his second selection "Walkin' In The Rain," Trout took time and noted "We are so happy to be down here tonight...It's good to be home." He then acknowledged Mayall's profound impact on his life and career: "He is my mentor...he is my musical father. I love you John."

Walter Trout, left, with Johnny Griparic in San Juan
Capistrano.

While "Walkin' In The Rain" is a slower Chicago blues-styled cut, Trout's guitar work erupted with power and emotion. The dreamy blues rocker "Wanna Dance" followed and was one of the most poignant cuts of the night, Trout's nuanced baritone vocals were the equal to the probing lyrics and his otherworldly fret work.

Teddy "Zig Zag" Andreadis at The Coach House.

Other early set cuts that connected powerfully included the soulful blues track "All Out Of Tears," the blistering "Got A Broken Heart" (featuring Trout's guitar dueling with Andreadis' organ), the arching "My Foolish Pride" and soul-stirring "Almost Gone" (the latter a song that chronicles his near death experience from liver disease featured on 2015's acclaimed Battle Scars).

Drummer Mike Leasure in the zone.

Trout's set maintained its mighty momentum throughout, with late set favorites including the rollicking blues rocker "We're All In This Together," a anthemic cover of Floyd Lee's "Red Sun," an affecting run through of Bob Dylan's "I Shall Be Released" and the night-ending Chuck Berry-on-steroids styled run through William Harris' "Bullfrog Blues."

"Thank you," Trout said after the final note was played. "Good night. God bless you."

A night to remember for sure.

Audrey Anne Gelb at The Coach
House on Dec. 10, 2021.

Opening the night was a 40-minute set from Orange County native / singer-songwriter Audrey Anne Gelb, who performed a mix of original songs including sparse covers of hits originally released by Stevie Wonder, Adele and more.

R.I.P. Michael Nesmith; co-founder of The Monkees has passed away at age 78

Michael Nesmith (left) performs at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles in
front of a projection screen showing classic footage of the Monkees.
 Photo: Kelly A. Swift

I was so sad to hear of the passing of the great Michael Nesmith this morning. I have had the great fortune to see him perform with the Monkees on Nov. 10, 2012 as part of the group's 45th Anniversary celebration (read my review of that concert HERE) and on Sept. 16, 2016 at an event marking their 50th Anniversary (read my review of that concert HERE) and at a solo performance at the Stagecoach Festival in 2014; read my review of Nesmith's set at that festival HERE.

From left, Michael Nesmith, Micky Dolenz and Peter Tork performing at the
Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Earlier this year Micky Dolenz released a wonderful album titled Dolenz Sings Nesmith featuring him performing a full track listing of songs penned by Nesmith. Read my review of that outstanding album HERE.

From left, Christian Nesmith performing with his father Michael Nesmith at the
Stagecoach Festival in Indio, CA in April 2014. Photo: Robert Kinsler

An incredible singer-songwriter and one of the early champions of fusing rock and country together, Nesmith's passing means that Dolenz is the only surviving member of the Monkees. Dolenz posted the following Tweet this morning:

Robert Kinsler

Classic Christmas songs from The Beach Boys, Bing Crosby, Burl Ives, Nat King Cole and more receive official videos for Christmas!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! ...

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS SONGS FROM THE BEACH BOYS, BING CROSBY, BURL IVES, DEAN MARTIN, ELLA FITZGERALD, FRANK SINATRA, THE JACKSON 5, JIMMY DURANTE, MARVIN GAYE AND NAT KING COLE RECEIVE FIRST-EVER OFFICIAL VIDEOS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

UMe’S LATEST HOLIDAY VIDEO OFFERINGS JOIN A HOST OF SEASONAL AUDIO DELIGHTS, INCLUDING OFFICIAL HOURS-LONG PLAYLIST, A HOST OF THEMATIC DIGITAL COLLECTIONS, AND MUCH MORE TO HELP SOUNDTRACK YOUR HOLIDAYS AND TURN UP THE JOY

Los Angeles – December 9, 2021 – This holiday season, UMe has once again teamed up with legendary artists and estates to create official animated videos for some of the most beloved holiday songs in the Christmas canon from the likes of Bing Crosby, Burl Ives, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, The Jackson 5, Jimmy Durante, Marvin Gaye, and Nat King Cole. Most of the animated videos were produced by Fantoons Animation Studios, with Ella Fitzgerald’s “Sleigh Ride” created by the team at Pixel Park; The Jackson 5’s “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” animated by Troy Browne and Chaz Bottoms, with puppets created by Adam Kreutinger and operated bypuppeteers Alex Griffin and Jayden Libran; and Marvin Gaye’s “I Want To Come Home For Christmas” directed by Tim Fox and animated by Daniel Crossan. The videos span a variety of styles and themes and feature animators from all over the world putting their unique spin on the holidays. 

In addition to the animated videos, several engaging lyric videos have been created for The Beach Boys’ “The Man With All The Toys,” Bing Crosby’s “Do You Hear What I Hear” and “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas,” Dean Martin’s “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” and Nat King Cole’s “The Happiest Christmas Tree,” which are perfect for holiday gathering sing-alongs. 

WATCH BING CROSBY’S “I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS” & 
“THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY”

WATCH BURL IVES’ “RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER”

WATCH DEAN MARTIN’S “I’VE GOT MY LOVE TO KEEP ME WARM”

WATCH ELLA FITZGERALD’S “SLEIGH RIDE”

WATCH FRANK SINATRA’S “HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS”

WATCH THE JACKSON 5’S “SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN”

WATCH JIMMY DURANTE’S “FROSTY THE SNOWMAN”

WATCH MARVIN GAYE’S “I WANT TO COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS”

WATCH NAT KING COLE’S “O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL”

WATCH THE BEACH BOYS’ “THE MAN WITH ALL THE TOYS” (LYRIC VIDEO)

WATCH BING CROSBY’S “DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR” (LYRIC VIDEO) &
 “IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS” (LYRIC VIDEO)

WATCH DEAN MARTIN’S “BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE” (LYRIC VIDEO)

WATCH NAT KING COLE’S “THE HAPPIEST CHRISTMAS TREE” (LYRIC VIDEO)

“UMe has created a series of videos for many of UMG’s most cherished and enduring holiday hits as we partner with our artists once again to continue this tradition,” says Bruce Resnikoff, President and CEO of UMe, the global catalog company of UMG. “This year’s videos were created by directors and artists from around the world and embody the holiday spirit as these timeless songs have been reinterpreted in creative new ways.”

In the video for Bing Crosby’s “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” viewers are taken on a Christmas voyage through the perspective of several generations of hopeful, hardworking family members, from the turn of the century to 1970s NYC to modern day, as they attempt to make it home for the holidays, while Bing serenades throughout the decades. In “The Little Drummer Boy,” a similar theme is told as a boy, away from his family, makes a meager living cleaning up backstage nightly. On a particularly depressing evening, as Christmas is fast approaching and the distance from his family becomes all the more somber, the boy transforms some rusty buckets and pails into a drum kit and the theatre, strewn with Crosby references, and its inanimate inhabitants come to life as he offers his sole and modest gift of drumming. In Burl Ives’ “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” a new chapter is added to one of the most famous Christmas tales of all as Rudolph Jr. saves Christmas after the blinking Neurological Observational Sensor Equipment (N.O.S.E.) malfunctions, forcing Rudolph to spring into action just like his famous father. 

Dean Martin is recruited by Santa and Mrs. Claus to handle Christmas duties while they sneak off for a tropical vacation in the hilarious video for “I’ve Got My Love To Keep You Warm,” which features Dean brought to life through an ingenious mix of photo collages and ‘60s-era animation. Meanwhile, in the video for The Jackson 5’s “Santa Claus Is Coming Town,” a delightful hybrid of puppetry and animation, Santa more than embraces his duties and saves the world by gleefully delivering presents and the Christmas spirit around the globe to magically transform people and the areas that need his help the most. Ella Fitzgerald’s “Sleigh Ride” takes viewers on a striking visual adventure around the globe with many “Easter Eggs” to be found along the way from throughout Ella’s career. 

Written and co-directed by David Calcano of Fantoons, the video for Frank Sinatra’s “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” beautifully tells Calcano’s personal story, which is really the universal story about missing home and family during the holidays after leaving one’s country in search of a better life, in his case leaving Venezuela for the U.S. The video, which states in the credits is “Dedicated To Those Who Had To Leave Their Home… Looking For A Better Life,” has gone viral in Latin America and has struck a chord with people around the world who have been sharing their own stories in the thousands of YouTube comments. Jimmy Durante tells a different kind of story in the video for “Frosty the Snowman” which features a larger than life Frosty in this modern, whimsical take on the classic tale. The video for Marvin Gaye’s poignant “I Want To Come Home For Christmas” takes on a more solemn and serious tone as Gaye, depicted as a cab driver during the holidays, drives around the city and helps veterans, as the light on his taxi reads, get “home for Christmas.” Written and recorded in 1972 about supporting America’s prisoners of war and told from a soldier’s perspective, the song was released posthumously in 2019 on the Motown/UMe album, You’re the Man. The video premiered on Veteran’s Day in partnership with the Paralyzed Veterans of America. 

To celebrate the unifying spirit of Christmas, Nat King Cole’s “O Come All Ye Faithful” has brought together 20 different visual styles from artists all over the world to tell “The Greatest Story Ever Told” with their distinctive interpretations. The story of the birth of Christ has been uniquely illustrated by 27 artists from 15 countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, India, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, USA and Venezuela. 

For those looking for more holiday entertainment, The Ed Sullivan Show’s Official YouTube Channel will be adding classic performances to The Ed Sullivan Show holiday playlist from its archives of seasonal favorites all month long, including “The Christmas Song” by Dolores Gray, “Baby’s First Christmas” by Connie Francis, “Jingle Bells” by Shari Lewis and her adorable sidekicks, Lamb Chop and Charlie Horse; cherished standards “Ave Maria” by Joselito, a medley by Sandler & Young singing “Do You Hear What I Hear? / Silent Night / O Holy Night,” the Mexican Boystown Choir with “Auld Lang Syne;” and a holiday-themed medley from Bobby Sherman. The videos also will be available here: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheEdSullivanShow 

These videos are just some of the many ways that UMe is celebrating its unmatched Christmas catalog and helping to turn up the joy this holiday season. A variety of new thematic digital collections are available to stream now on your favorite streaming service and include the “Christmas For Kids” series, which features classic Christmas songs specially curated for children of all ages from the likes of Bing Crosby, Burl Ives and Peggy Lee; “Christmas Carols” from Bing Crosby, Peggy Lee, Nat King Cole, and 98°; a pair of George Straight“Strait To Christmas” collections, “Classics” and “Holiday Jams;” and a variety of other sets from Dean Martin (“White Christmas,” “Let It Snow”), Nat King Cole (“Joy To The World”), and 98° (“Festive Christmas”). 

Also available for your streaming pleasure is UMe's Christmas playlist, which features some of the most popular songs and artists across the holiday music canon, pairing timeless classics with contemporary favorites. The hours-long –and ever-expanding – playlist is available now for streaming on Spotify and Apple. Listen here: https://stream.lnk.to/ChristmasPR

uDiscover Music is also getting into the spirit with their just launched holiday hub which includes a variety of gift guides for all types of music lovers, eclectic playlists and the memorable stories behind classic holiday tunes. Visit it here: https://www.udiscovermusic.com/christmas/

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