Stagecoach to feature shining Americana, country and roots music

By Robert Kinsler

After two weeks of modern rock, electronica, hip-hop and soul courtesy of the two-weekend Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, Indio will be filled with the sounds of country and Americana music at the Empire Polo Club, April 26-28.

Stagecoach is hosting a mix of contemporary and classic artists who will perform during the festival’s three day run, with discerning listeners having to often make difficult choices in terms of what artist to see since there are frequently strong performances playing out at the same time.

Here is a rundown of some of the most acclaimed artists set to perform at Stagecoach.

Friday, April 26

While Roger McGuinn will be forever recognized for his seminal role as a member of The Byrds in the 1960s and ‘70s, the singer-songwriter-guitarist has spent the better part of the last two decades focusing on his folk roots. Indeed, his winning 2011 released Ccd featured his versions of Celtic-flavored sea chanteys including “Catch the Greenland Whale” and “So Early in the Spring.” His appearance should be one of the highlights of Stagecoach.

What happens when you mix old-time bluegrass, folk and alt country music? Catch the always wonderful Old Crow Medicine Show when they take the stage and deliver their incredible and energetic brew to fine out. The band tore it up at Coachella three years ago, and is now set to impress at Goldenvoice’s other big festival in the desert.

Saturday, April 27

Dwight Yoakam’s 3 Pears was one of the best albums of 2012 and returned the Pikeville, Kentucky native to center stage on the country music scene. A gifted singer able to deliver his songs with a magical mix of emotion and power, “3 Pears” appeared on more critics’ top 10 year lists than any other country music artist of the year.

Nick 13 is best known as the hard hitting lead singer in the psychobilly band Tiger Army. But fans also know he uses his solo shows to perform his sweet country music that has more in common with Roy Orbison and Raul Malo than the punk-minded Tiger Army. This will be a homecoming of sorts since he debuted his solo project with a full-length performance at Stagecoach 2010.

Sunday, April 28

Before the rise of the Zac Brown Band a few years ago, country music had no artful answer to the mix of song craft, enthralling marathon concerts and overall feeling that have long made Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band shows so legendary. Singer-songwriter-guitarist Zac Brown and his trusty outfit do more than play original radio favorites; the troupe infuses their stellar appearances with a depth and brawn that outdistances the majority of its contemporaries.

Blue Sky Riders is a new name on the roots and country music scene, but the trio’s sterling lineup includes singer-songwriter Kenny Loggins, singer-songwriter Georgia Middleman (who has worked with Keith Urban, Faith Hill and Martina McBride) and famed Nashville tunesmith Gary Burr. There is no doubt that the three members’ vocals are a potent combination, especially when joining forces in harmony. Among the threesome’s fantastic songs featured on their 2013 debut Finally Home is the soaring “Dream,” melodic folk gem “A Thousand Wild Horses” and dance-minded “I Get It.”

Coachella 2013: Day 3 highlights from Three O'Clock, Dinosaur Jr., OMD, Dead Can Dance and more

My coverage of the third and final day of Coachella Weekend 2 originally ran on The Orange County Register Web site on Monday, April 22, 2013.

Sun sets on the final day of Coachella 2013. Photo: Robert Kinsler

Sunday (April 21, 2013) may be the day when even the most seasoned Coachella-goers run on fumes, especially with temps reaching into the mid-90s. But the force of several strong performances left me thinking: "If the music is this good, keep it coming."

At the start of the final rundown, about half past noon, Little Green Cars appeared in the Gobi tent for a seven-song set pitched somewhere amid the alt-folk of the Lumineers, the Civil Wars and Dawes. The Dublin quintet spun lush harmonies, showed off two gifted lead singers and mixed up complementary clean and distorted guitars in a way that made both sound necessary. The group ended its 30-minute run with "The John Wayne," a heartfelt tale of unrequited love wrapped in rich vocals.

Louis Gutierrez, left, and Michael Querico. Photo: Robert Kinsler

When I first heard earlier this year that the Three O'Clock would reunite for this Coachella, I wondered if it was the same band I used to see at area clubs in the early '80s. Fast forward to Sunday afternoon and there I was watching almost the original quartet serving up its stew of '60s greats like the Zombies, the Byrds and mid-era Beatles.

Led by singer-bassist Michael Querico and guitarist Louis Gutierrez, the band's fast-paced set included classics such as "Simon in the Park (With Tentacles)," a brilliant version of "Jet Fighter," even a hard take on Pink Floyd's "Lucifer Sam," something they shined with during their warm-up a couple weeks ago at the Glass House in Pomona. The songs were always more than they appeared, with punchy bass solos, evocative keyboards, sometimes 12-string Rickerbacker jangle and distinctive drum patterns all part of the attack.

A young twentysomething woman next to me noted that she had flown all the way from Japan just to see the group. Indeed, the Three O'Clock's return will be one of the things I'll remember most about Coachella 2013. Let's hope this is a reunion that sticks.

That bunch was the first of several veteran acts that turned in strong, well-received sets in Indio on Sunday. Performing on the Outdoor Theatre stage, legendary trio Dinosaur Jr. (boasting its original lineup of singer-guitarist J Mascis, bassist-singer Lou Barlow and drummer Murph), used its 50-minute allotment to blast through a set of mostly originals steeped in chainsaw guitar, feedback and distortion. They also toss in a reworking of the Cure's "Just Like Heaven," Mascis delivering Robert Smith's distinctive guitar lines with fluid bursts of staccato notes.

I then ran over to the main stage where O.C.'s own Social Distortion was just getting started.

There was little doubt leader Mike Ness, who noted how much better the crowd was this time, recognized the significance of this second chance at a lasting Coachella performance. He and his band turned in a set of best-known songs designed to impress even those positioned at the furthest reaches of the Empire Polo Club.

Opening with "Reach for the Sky," then diving into the crunchy "Bad Luck," the quartet's nine-song appearance ended with their long-loved and rocked-out version of the Johnny Cash classic "Ring of Fire," with a good-sized mosh pit breaking out, bringing a bit of Hootenanny to Indio.

Watching the crowd pack into the Gobi tent to watch Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) was an amazing sight. Here's a forebear that couldn't be more relevant to today's electro-pop scene, a New Wave fixture whose groundbreaking sound was no longer in fashion by the late '80s, yet who has proven how impossible it is to keep a good band down.

Singer-bassist Andy McCluskey was a ball of energy as he led his three bandmates and the party-minded multi-generational gathering of fans through the British troupe's classics as well as cuts from recent releaseEnglish Electric. The audience ate up the propulsive glee of "Enola Gay" and was caught up in the group's new single, "Metroland," but by the time OMD closed with "Secret" and the fast-paced "Electricity," I could actually feel the ground moving below my feet from thousands dancing frantically.

Lisa Gerrard, left, with Brendan Perry. Photo: Robert Kinsler

Mojave hosted one of the final performances of the fest, from genre-defying Dead Can Dance. Brendan Perry and Lisa Gerrard led an ensemble of four other musicians through an hour-long set of songs that blended world music, gothic rock and neoclassical together with trademark mystique. Perry's mighty baritone is as forceful as Gerrard's soaring soprano, and both took turns on lead vocals over the course of eight selections.

"Children of the Sun" opened with a range of percussion and keyboards used to cast a vast soundscape around Perry's delivery, while Middle Eastern sounds later graced "Agape," with Gerrard's voice in full flight. DCD's set ended with the wonderful "The Ubiquitous Mr. Lovegrove," the outfit's stirring atmospherics providing an otherworldly backdrop to Perry's resonate vocals.

Saturday evening at Coachella Weekend 2: Sigur Rós, Grizzly Bear, Descendents, Guards, Two Door Cinema Club

Here is my review originally posted on The Orange County Register Web site on Sunday, April 21, 2013. This post reflects my coverage extending from Guards' performance in the early afternoon on April 20 to Sigur Rós' set which ended around 1 a.m. on Sunday morning, April 21. A long day and night to be sure!


 

Jónsi of Sigur Rós. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Coachella 2013: Guards, Grizzly Bear, Sigur Rós and Descendents stand out

Running from stage to stage and processing a wide range of performances that play out on any day at Coachella is as challenging as it is exhilarating. In all, I managed to catch complete or partial sets from 11 acts across Day 2. Here's my highlight reel.

Guards, a buzzing band out of New York City with roots in O.C.-spawned group Willowz, was one of the day's earliest performers and made the most of a 30-minute slot with an ambitious, involving display in front of an enthusiastic crowd in Gobi.

The quartet utilized big dynamics and strong material off its debut, In Guards We Trust, with singer-guitarist Richie Follin and singer-keyboardist Kaylie Church fusing nicely. The group's sound mixed heavy guitar, keyboard shadings and pleasing melodies artfully presented on "Coming True," achieving a huge finale that suggests big things are in store on their upward trajectory.

Grizzly Bear attracted an overflow crowd to Mojave. The group's recordings are a wonder, blending experimental and melodic elements in ways that the Brooklyn quartet (expanded to a five-piece via a touring keyboardist) nonetheless explores more deeply live. Soundscape highlights, enhanced by long-tailed lights that floated up and down: the '60s-tinged vibe of "Knife" and the adventurous "On a Neck, On a Spit," with its climb from sparse, almost acoustic launch to driving, dramatic finale.

The members of Descendents may well be middle-age men, but in a raucous performance filled with old-school punk gems ("I Don't Want to Grow Up" and "I'm Not a Loser" stormed mightily) their set served as a reminder that simple, straight-ahead melodic hardcore can still thrill. A devoted crowd gathered in front of the Outdoor Theatre to catch the Milo Aukerman-led South Bay group firing at full strength 35 years after its founding.

Northern Irish quartet Two Door Cinema Club serves up high-energy indie rock built out of propulsive rhythms and synth-pop stylings, but that lively approach was the perfect fit for the same stage earlier in the night, as the air began to cool. The large grassy space became a giant outdoor dance floor from the minute the group tore into "Sleep Alone" to kick off a 50-minute turn.

Singer and rhythm guitarist Alex Trimble's sweet tenor and Sam Halliday's sharp leads brought added layers to the free and fun approach on "Do You Want It All?" (complete with a dazzling light display) and "Someday," bolstered by a distinctive guitar line. The group teamed with the excitable faithful on "The World Is Watching," thousands of fans singing the lyric recorded by Valentina for Two Door's album Beacon.

Outdoor Theatre headliner Sigur Rós offered an understandably abbreviated version of its current two-hour concerts, but as Saturday stretched into early Sunday, the ambient Icelandic heroes didn't cut corners in terms of the power they can unleash in both established and new material.

For more than an hour, despite having to overcome volume bleed from Phoenix's set on the main stage, the churning, sometimes symphonic mix of post-rock and neo-classical was presented by the core trio abetted by eight other musicians (including string and brass sections) plus impressive visual art.

Though lead singer and guitarist Jónsi sings in Hopelandic (the band's own language), most in the audience didn't seem too concerned about gleaning any direct messages from the songs, gluing themselves instead to the intensity of the ethereal music.

Jónsi in action. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

The joyful "Hoppipolla," accompanied by images of falling lights, and the more haunting "Festival" represented the two sides of Sigur Ros' unique style. Another chilling moment: the title track off coming album Kveikur. Onto a gigantic rear screen morphed an animated racing horse, as a thundering drum beat cut through the night and Jonsi used his cello bow on his guitar in a graceful dance with the sight of thundering hooves.

Coachella Weekend 2 - afternoon of Day 2: The Colourist, Vintage Trouble, Allen Stone

I have reposted a review of the first part of day 2 of Coachella Weekend 2 I completed for The Orange County Register on Saturday, April 20, 2013 below.

Helix Poeticus on the move. Photo: Robert Kinsler

Coachella 2013: The Colourist, Vintage Trouble heat up Weekend 2, Day 2

It may have been noticeably hotter today, but that didn't stop some young bands from making the most of their early afternoon spots here to start Day 2 (April 20, 2013).


Take O.C. quartet the Colourist: By the time they performed set-ending track "We Won't Go Home," a sizeable crowd inside the Gobi tent was going nuts, swept up in the group's big catchy choruses. Singer/drummer Maya Tuttle was especially strong, though the entire band (including singer/guitarist Adam Castilla, bassist/keyboardist Justin Wagner and guitarist/bassist Kollin Johannsen) collectively delivered a memorable 30-minute set.

Of the two retro-soul acts on the bill Saturday, Vintage Trouble had the bigger challenge, performing under a merciless sun at 2:25 p.m. (The band was moved to that slot after Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro canceled earlier in the week.) But make no mistake, the L.A. outfit blended rock 'n' soul with all the fierceness of nature's furnace today, so strong that I saw few of the thousand or so who braved the heat for their 35-minute set leaving in search of shade.

Singer Ty Taylor danced, sang, even waded into the crowd to keep the show moving at all times. He also tore his white suit pants, yet never missed a beat. Meanwhile, guitarist Nalle Colt offered a tasty display on his guitar, whether it was expounding on Chuck Berry-ish riffs with full-on blues rock chops, jazz runs or hard-edged slide work. The band (also featuring bassist Rick Barrio and drummer Richard Danielson) performed blistering tunes such as "Blues Hand Me Down" as well as tender ballads ("Nancy Lee" comes to mind) with equal conviction.

Soul singer Allen Stone's 45-minute set didn't reach the depths of Vintage Trouble's more artistically satisfying turn, but he sure transformed a well-packed Gobi tent into a bona fide party as Coachella Weekend 2 reached its halfway point. With his far-reaching tenor often extending into a pleasing falsetto, he and his seven-member band impressed on original material ("Celebrate Tonight," "Unaware") and his entirely reworked version of Bob Marley's "Is This Love."

Coachella Weekend 2 - day 1: Blur, Band of Horses, Jake Bugg, Johnny Marr and more

Sunset is always magical at Coachellafest. Photo: Robert Kinsler

My coverage of Coachella 2013 (Friday-Sunday, April 19-21, 2013) was originally posted on the Orange County Register Web site. This post also includes some additional notes on Blur and Johnny Marr. A special thank you to Kelly A. Swift for the use of several of her outstanding photographs.

Helix Poeticus joins the fun watching Divine Fits. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Coachella 2013: Starting the second weekend with Skinny Lister, White Arrows

NOTE FROM BEN WENER: Coachella Weekend 2 opened just like the first, with a chance to catch swarms of young artists all across the well-trod field at the Empire Polo Club in Indio – including several our rotating Soundcheck crew missed last weekend.

Walked in right around noon to find Skinny Lister on the main stage, and was immediately impressed by the British outfit's blend of Celtic folk and punk energy. Despite the fact that gates had been open only an hour or so, a large crowd had gathered to cheer on the band as if they were headliners. I also glimpsed a couple tunes from IO Echo, a Southern California-based indie band whose '80s-esque synth-pop produced feel-good vibes for anyone chilling in the Gobi Tent.

White Arrows, on the Outdoor Theatre stage, produced a sound right at home with the burgeoning blending of kinetic indie rock and electronica with melodic pop influences. The L.A. quintet's accessible approach went over well with those soaking up sun and breezy sounds, and right from the start, when they opened with the energetic, keyboard-heavy "Roll Forever," off Dry Land Is Not a Myth. From there, the set grew heavier, thick with guitar-driven grooves.

Equally successful at getting arriving crowds moving and dancing was the nine-member Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, who nonetheless took a while to hit their stride on the biggest stage. The large Japanese ensemble mixed up ska, rock and jazz effectively but never elevated its many talents (a smart repertoire, virtuoso chops) into an artful whole – although their version of Steppenwolf's "Born to Be Wild" in the manner of Booker T was an interesting offering.

Band of Horses on Friday night. Photo:Robert Kinsler

Band of Horses lift the mood after sundown; Jake Bugg impresses again

Weekend 2 offered some solid music-making early in the day, but the class of potent and memorable stuff that draws thousands to the desert every spring stepped up in a big way via emerging British star Jake Bugg's performance in Mojave on Friday afternoon.

Showcasing the 19-year-old Nottingham native's already potent skills as singer, songwriter and guitarist, there was an electric buzz throughout his sterling 45-minute set. I watched the first half near the stage, then positioned myself further back for the last half, and the enthusiasm for Bugg's authentic blend of spirited '70s folk-rock was palpable even in the furthest reaches of the large tent.

The up-tempo "I've Seen It All" and an astounding take on "Simple as This" were among the impressive highlights, the latter in a fantastic arrangement that began with the newcomer in full acoustic mode before his band came in.

Damon Albarn of Blur. Photo: Robert Kinsler

In a day that included excellent turns from Blur and Johnny Marr on stages large and small, there also were rousing sets from several acts at the Outdoor Theatre. Of Monsters and Men had the good fortune of starting at 5:45, when the day was cooling and many in the crowd were finally ready to come alive.

Naturally, the seven-member Icelandic troupe's 50-minute performance centered on the jubilant tracks from last year's My Head Is an Animal, opening with its opener (the riveting "Dirty Paws") and closing with its closer (the cascading "Yellow Light"). The dynamic "Six Weeks" sounded as if Sigur Rós and Mumford & Sons had joined forces. Those pieces alone guaranteed a winning set, but adding the tender "King and Lionheart" and lush "Lakehouse" provided moments of resounding wonder, the otherworldly vocals, trumpets, keyboards, acoustic guitars and other instruments painting marvelous soundscapes.

Band of Horses turned in a similarly triumphant appearance for its equally timed turn. Whether it was because Beach House's preceding dream-pop was too hushed and dialed to a lone emotional tone, the South Carolina transplants from Seattle were the perfect lift to fill the large expanse in front of the Outdoor Theatre, giving the night a fine jolt.

Singer-guitarist Ben Bridwell did little talking beyond a few sincere words of thanks to fans, photographers in the pit ("they have to put up with tour managers") and Coachella itself, but he led the quintet through a rundown ideally suited to the vibe that spreads across the Empire Polo Club field after dark. "The Great Salt Lake" and "Is There a Ghost" provided depth early in the set, with the more powerful, Crazy Horse-like "Laredo," the gorgeous "Infinite Arms" (title track of their third album, from 2010) and a set-ending "Am I Good a Man?," a rocker with shades of country and R&B that illustrates BofH's wide aesthetic reach.



Johnny Marr at Coachella on April 19. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

 Finally, I can't let my recap of day 1 end without noting two of my favorite performances. Johnny Marr was simply amazing, performing a mix of songs from his recently-issued The Messenger and several Smiths classics. Another great artist I got to see for the first time was Britpop pioneer Blur. As was the case when I caught Marr in the early afternoon, when catching Blur I put away from notepad (since George A. Paul was reviewing for the band for The Register) and simply made my way close to the main Coachella stage to enjoy the set.

The last two songs of Blur's set fully helped illustrate the range of material that makes the band so special. "The Universal" is a genre-defying melodic gem with an inspired chorus and the song builds in ways that sweep up listeners. The band than turned on a dime and raged artfully through its powerful and potent hit "Song 2" as the crowd around me jumped up and down in a frenzy. Even after a long day (and night) of mostly standing and running around the Empire Polo Club, I was ready for Saturday.

Music Worth Buying episode: Jordan Corey and Johnny Marr

On the latest episode of Music Worth Buying my co-host TJR champions Jordan Corey's Do Me Wrong while I can't stop celebrating Johnny Marr's The Messenger.

Julian Lennon back with new music via duet with Steven Tyler

Before I head over to park and make the long walk to get into Coachella, I wanted to share this media release and related links with everyone! Good to hear Julian Lennon's songcraft again. It has been ages since we heard much from him...James McCartney is performing at Coachella 2013, wouldn't it be nice if Julian was there next year? I would love to see him in the desert...

Julian Lennon's (@JulianLennon) Remarkable Duet with Steven Tyler (@IamStevenT) "Someday" Available on iTunes Now

Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Julian Lennon returns to music with "Someday". The remarkable track features Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, "Someday" is a composition built around compelling lyrics and stately strings. The oldest son of the late Beatles singer John Lennon, Julian has marked his half-century with an immediate pop hit with a mystical Eastern flavor; this track truly feels like an old friend.

'Everything Changes' - The acclaimed new album from Julian Lennon, will be available worldwide on June 4, 2013.

"Someday" Single on iTunes: http://smarturl.it/SomedayiTunes

Watch the awe-inspiring visual featuring Julian, Steven Tyler and images of unwavering hope!

Tweet: @JulianLennon Soars with @IamStevenT on Inspiring Track #Someday http://youtu.be/tOSyjiMmsxY

ABOUT JULIAN LENNON

Julian Lennon’s sensitive and poetic vision of life courses through his exquisite photography, philanthropic pursuits, and his acclaimed music. On June 4th he returns with his first album in 15 years, the stunning Everything Changes (Music From Another Room), a masterwork of powerfully vulnerable and sophisticatedly accessible adult pop.

Julian’s melding of uplifting introspection and thoughtful social commentary with refined hooks has made for a compelling six-album body of work. His debut, Valotte (Atlantic), yielded two top ten hits—the title track and "Too Late for Goodbyes”—and was nominated for a Grammy for “Best New Artist.” He went on to have #1 singles on the U.S. album rock charts. Internationally, one of his most popular songs “Saltwater” charted successfully around the world, topping in Australia for four weeks and reached #6 in the UK. In advance of its June 4th U.S. release, his latest, Everything Changes (Music From Another Room), is already receiving national airplay and press plaudits nationally and internationally. The Sunday Press calls it a “revelation” and Herald Standard gushes Julian has “returned stronger and better than ever.”

Since 1998, Julian has devoted himself to altruistic concerns. He produced the compelling documentary whaledreamers that was shown at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival and earned 8 International Film Festival Awards. In 2007, Julian founded The White Feather Foundation whose mission "embraces environmental and humanitarian issues and in conjunction with partners from around the world helps to raise funds for the betterment of all life, and to honor those who have truly made a difference."

He has emerged a renowned photographer, applying the warm candor of his vision in music to producing iconic images. Julian has worked extensively with U2, his brother Sean, and photographed his friend Charlene Wittstock, exclusively for Vogue, prior to her civil wedding to Prince Albert II of Monaco. His debut exhibition at the esteemed The Morrison Hotel Gallery in New York City garnered many outstanding reviews. He has followed this with two successful exhibitions at Art Basel Miami 2010 and 2012, among other venues internationally. He is currently preparing for a collaborative opening with Chinese artist Simon Ma, for the Venice Biennale 2013.

Everything Changes is a stunning achievement. It’s stately and intimate, and thoughtfully paced. Lyrically, it covers romance, introspection, and humanitarian concerns with artistic concision, mixing clever wordplay with emotional directness. The poignancy and poise of “Everything Changes” opens the album and sets a universally spiritual tone. The beautifully crafted lead off single “Someday” features mystical Eastern melodic motifs and boasts guest vocalist Steven Tyler. It engagingly combines Julian’s lifework as a philanthropist and gifted songwriter. Here, Julian sings pristinely with earnestness the timeless message: “We’re all in it together / One love, now and forever.” Other album standouts are the mesmerizing piano pop ballad "Lookin' 4 Luv" and the euphoric rocker “Just For You.”

Besides Steven Tyler, also guesting on the album is musician/producer Peter Vettese (Jethro Tull, Annie Lennox, Pet Shop Boys), singer-songwriter Paul Buchanan (Blue Nile), legendary songwriter Mark Spiro (Heart, Laura Branigan, Lita Ford),singer/producer/composer Tim Ellis, as well as longtime friends Justin Clayton, Gregory Darling, Matt Backer and Guy Pratt. Julian and Grant Ransom jointly produced the album.

Julian recently sang backing vocals on Aerosmith’s critically acclaimed comeback album. He returns to his music fans with new confidence and renewed purpose. Everything Changes has all the hallmarks of Julian Lennon’s classic, sublime lifestyle music, yet glows with tender wisdom gleaned from his many life explorations.

Connect with Julian Lennon

julianlennon.com
twitter.com/julianlennon
facebook.com/julianlennonofficial
youtube.com/julianlennon
soundcloud.com/julianlennon

James McCartney talks Coachella, new album

My original story was posted on The Orange County Register's Soundcheck blog on April 17, 2013. James McCartney performs an acoustic set at Coachella this afternoon.

James McCartney

James McCartney, son of Sir Paul and the late Linda, has rapidly earned accolades for his powerful mix of accessible melodic songs and experimental rock introduced via two EPs, 2010's Available Light and 2011's Close at Hand. An impressive 16-song set at the Coach House last year also proved he can be a formidable live talent, although he's had to fight to be heard as a solo acoustic act at Coachella.

He returns to the Indio festival for a second helping Friday afternoon, just after he wraps a two-night stand at the Hotel Cafe in L.A. McCartney's full-length debut, Me, is due in late May.

I caught up with him via email a few weeks ago for this interview.

Soundcheck: I was impressed by the range of material on your Complete EP collection, from melodic power pop to more experimental rock. Could you talk a bit about your growth as a songwriter since those songs were recorded and how that influenced the process of making Me?

James McCartney: That's nice, thanks so much. Well, I wanted to show a progression. My favorite artists are definitely ones that grow, and I want to be one that does too. The songs on my first two EPs were written over a broad period of time. Some songs were older and some brand new. All of the songs on the new album are new, so this is much more of a snapshot of where I'm at right now. It's a real singer-songwriter record, with an emphasis on lyric writing and melodies. I worked with David Kahne on the recording, which was lovely.

When I saw you perform last year you were backed by a band, but now you are performing alone. What led to that decision?

In keeping with the album title, this tour is, in fact, "me." I did a solo show last year at NYC's Rockwood Music Hall and it went great. It gave us the idea of doing the same thing on a national scale, in listening rooms around the country. Just me and an audience, and of course these new songs. No distractions. I'm really looking forward to it.

What was it like going on your first U.S. tour last year?

It was amazing. I love America and it was my first chance to see it as a touring musician. Meeting fans after the show, seeing the cities, it was great.

Will you approach Coachella different than playing a more intimate club?

I don't plan to ... I'll do it just the same. I think the way I'm doing these songs will work very well, even in that bigger setting. I haven't played the festival before, so it will be quite an experience. And quite a way to kick off the tour!

You've noted that your favorite artists are those who evolve over time. In what ways do you explore on the new album that you didn't on the EP collection?

It's really just an evolution, as we all go through. This album and these songs are the next steps for me, just as Close at Hand was the net step from Available Light. I think there's even more depth in the writing and singing on this record, and since the last batch of songs I've continued to learn who I am ... as we all continue to learn about ourselves.

How has David Kahne and any other producers or artists you've worked with helped shape the sound of the new album?

Well, David Kahne, primarily, is who I worked with. I've recorded the previous EPs with him as well so we have a great working relationship. He's also worked with my dad, of course. Dad was a part of the recording, too, and of course he's an influence. My band from the U.K. is on the album, (NYC singer) Kate Davis appears on the album, as does Steven Isserlis and Shawn Pelton. Just a great group of people, and a great time in making the album.

Record Store Day: Zia Record Exchange, Pepperland Music, Gary Clark Jr., The Black Keys and much more!

One of the great things about (April 20) is I'll be out at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival catching a number of fantastic and groundbreaking musical acts. An added bonus is that because it's Record Store Day, my first stop will be a run to Zia Record Exchange to check out the new and special releases. I always buy something.

But it matters little whether you are at Coachella or not on Record Store Day because countless independent music stores are selling special releases and even hosting in-store performances. Here is a rundown of Record Store Day-related news and links.

My hometown indie record store, Pepperland Music located at 850 N. Tustin Avenue in Orange, California, is hosting several live performances. Both singer-songwriter Michael Ubaldini and Cowboy Buddha are set to play; that amounts to some pretty amazing Americana and roots music offered for free. The Droppers are also set to perform inside the store (which offers both new and used CD and vinyls, and also hundreds of instruments!).I'm all the artists will be selling and signing their latest releases too. Click here for more details on events at Pepperland Music.

There is so much news related to the day, but I wanted to share the complete media release from Warner Bros. Records because it really showcases the wide range of artists involved in participating and supporting artists and the creation of live music. Please support Record Store Day everybody and check out the official Record Store Day Web site here to browse and find what's happening near you!

WARNER BROS. RECORDS AND AFFILIATED LABELS CELEBRATE WITH EXCLUSIVE VINYL RELEASES FROM THE FLAMING LIPS, GARY CLARK JR.,


THE BLACK KEYS, TEGAN AND SARA, FOALS, IRON AND WINE, AND MORE


April 18, 2013 - (Burbank, CA) -Record Store Day is upon us this Saturday and Warner Bros. Records, an Official sponsor has a plethora of Limited Edition releases in store - literally!

In fact Record Store Day is now celebrated globally with 1,000's of independently owned record stores around the world participating with special events, in-store appearances and of course, hundreds of exclusive and limited titles available this Saturday.

These exclusive titles are not available for review and here's why: Record Store Day has become an important cultural holiday to remind us of our love of music and our love of "records" pressed on 12", 10" or 7" vinyl, maybe compact disc or even cassette (they've never gone away!) and the inimitable magical allure of the holy Institution known as The Independent Record Store where we go to share, learn, participate and keep tradition alive for future generations to enjoy. It's interactive, social, fun and it requires your participation in order to thrive like any other culture. So once again, here's our menu of just desserts we've pressed up just for you in honor of Record Store Day 2013:


Avenged Sevenfold: "Carry On" - One disc vinyl 12" Picture Disc - Limited to 5000 copies

The A-side is the studio track Carry On, which is featured in Activision's video game Call of Duty: Black Ops II. This song was written specifically for the game and released on Sept. 25, 2012. The B-side features the instrumental version which has been previously unreleased. This picture disc is limited and features the Call of Duty: Black Ops II artwork and Avenged Sevenfold's Deathbat

Avenged Sevenfold "Live in the LBC & Diamonds in the Rough"

12" vinyl LP and DVD Deluxe Edition - Limited to 3500 copies

For Record Store Day 2013, on the 5 year anniversary of the Live in the LBC performance, we have produced a limited vinyl/DVD configuration, pressed on vinyl for the first time in a deluxe gatefold jacket and mastered by Bernie Grundman. This release contains both the first live concert film from Avenged Sevenfold "Live in the LBC" filmed live on April 10, 2008 as well as "Diamonds in the Rough", an offering of previously unreleased B-sides and more. The CD/DVD configuration was released September 16, 2008 and has since been certified Platinum.

Biffy Clyro: "Black Chandelier" - 7" EP - Limited to 2,000 copies

Pressed on limited-edition black and clear splattered vinyl for the first time and featuring an energetic and unreleased live performance of the new single Black Chandelier from the new Opposites album. This was recorded at Kaufleuten, Zurich-Switzerland on January 19, 2013. Also features a previously unreleased B-side, City of Dreadful Night.


The Black Keys / The Stooges: "No Fun" Split 7" Colored vinyl Single - Limited to 7,500 copies

This year's Side by Side Vinyl Series features The Stooges '69 classic track on one side and The Black Keys updated 2002 take on the flip side pressed on orange & red sunburst vinyl. Very Limited so grab it before it's gone for good.

Bombino: "Azamane Tiliade/Si Chilan"- 10" Single - Limited to 3,000 copies

Nonesuch Records releases Nomad, from the Tuareg guitarist, singer, and songwriter Omara "Bombino" Moctar and his band, on April 2nd. The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach, who just won the GRAMMY Award for Producer of the Year, helmed the recording at his Nashville studio, Easy Eye Sound. On Record Store Day, Nonesuch will release a 10" with the album track "Azamane Tiliade" and an exclusive non-album B-side, "Si Chilan."Mastered at Bernie Grundman Studios and pressed by Pirates Press, which means it sounds real good.


Built To Spill: "Live" - Two-disc vinyl LP and CD Deluxe Edition - Limited to 2,500 copies

An absolutely stunning collection of seminal Built To Spill songs recorded live during the band's 1999 "Keep It Like A Secret" tour. Originally released on April 18, 2000, on both vinyl (on Up Records) and CD (on Warner Bros. Records). The vinyl configuration initially contained two bonus tracks "Forget Remember When" and "Now and Then," which have now been included on the limited-edition CD in celebration of this release and Record Store Day. Naturally, it's cut for vinyl at Bernie Grundman Mastering especially for your sonic delight.


Cream: "Live at the Royal Albert Hall" - Three-disc vinyl LP box set with book Deluxe Edition - Limited to 1,500 copies

A sensational and historic reunion concert performed and recorded May 2, 3, 5, & 6 in 2005 and released for the first time in October of that same year - released on DVD, CD, and vinyl. Now available for the first time in over five years and for the first time ever, we have produced a limited edition of this box set on CREAM-colored vinyl in celebration of Record Store Day 2013 and this important recording. Half Speed mastering from Stan Ricker for the ultimate audiophile quality.


Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.: "Patterns" - One-disc vinyl 12" EP - Limited to 3,000 copies

Another RSD Exclusive 12"-vinyl EP includes digital download card. Details forthcoming but suffice to say, this is wondrous stuff. This one-time-only 12" artifact was made just for you and will disappear fast. You know what to do.

Deftones: Live: Volume 1 - Selections from Adrenaline - One disc vinyl 12" EP - Quantity N/A

Songs from Adrenaline hand-picked by Deftones and recorded live at Memorial Auditorium in Buffalo, New York, on Oct. 13, 1996. The initial release in a series of seven vinyl exclusive releases with the first release being a Record Store Day exclusive and the last planned to be a Black Friday independent exclusive retail release. Finally, the light of day has come.Cut for vinyl by Bernie Grundman at Bernie Grundman Mastering Studios from the original live analog sources and pressed on both 120- and 180-gram highest-quality vinyl at Record Technology Inc.


Eli "Paperboy" Reed: "WooHoo"- 7" vinyl EP - Limited to 3,000 copies

Eli "Paperboy" Reed is an emerging talent who already has two albums under his belt, 2008's Roll With You and 2010's Come & Get It, which earned the soul singer an especially loyal fan following in Europe - so much so that Reed was nominated as "Breakthrough Artist of the Year" by Britain's Mojo magazine. For the singer's upcoming Warner Bros. debut album, Eli takes his affinity for classic Chicago soul and blends it with a newfound respect for modern pop music. The result is a collection of songs that extend far beyond his neo-Motown roots. In the meantime, this release features a new song, "WooHoo,"
The Flaming Lips: Zaireeka- Four-disc different colored vinyl 12" - Limited to 7,500 copies

Fans and critics agree that this is one of the most important and invigorating experimental albums in contemporary pop music. Four discs, designed to be played on cue and simultaneously, producing nothing short of a symphonic experience. Re-mastered by the band especially for this release at Bernie Grundman Mastering in celebration of this record and Record Store Day 2013, with unique art and packaging (Including a 12pg booklet) w/ limited to this release.. Once these are gone...they are GONE.

Foals: "Holy Fire" - One-disc vinyl 12" LP plus two song 7"-colored vinyl EP - Limited to 5,000 copies

Domestic vinyl exclusive of the celebrated new album, in visually stunning package featuring an additionaltwo-song 7" EP pressed on gold vinyl featuring the exclusive tracks "Bluebird" and

"My Number (Friendly Fires Remix)." We've included a download card that can be redeemed for the entire album plus 7" single content. You're welcome!

Gary Clark, Jr.: "HWUL Raw Cuts Vol. 2" - 12" EP colored vinyl - Limited to 1,000 copies

Over 20 minutes of music and performance mastery available for the first time in all of its analog glory. Vol. 2 features a blistering live performance of "When My Train Comes In" as well as a studio version of the track off his hit album Blak And Blu. A beautifully crafted limited edition offering mastered at 45 rpm and cut by Bernie Grundman Mastering for maximum vibes.


Iron & Wine: "Next to Paradise" / " Dirty Ocean" - 7" Single - Limited to 3,300 copies

Iron and Wine makes its Nonesuch Records debut with Ghost on Ghost in the U.S. on April 16. Ghost on Ghostis the fifth release from singer-songwriter Sam Beam, using the pen name Iron and Wine. The album was produced by Beam's longtime associate Brian Deck (Modest Mouse, Califone, Fruit Bats). This special 7" includes two exclusive tracks unavailable anywhere else but on this lovely one time only pressing just for RSD. Cut by, you guessed it, Bernie Grundman and pressed at Pallas MFG (Diepholz, Germany) for your supreme listening pleasure.

Linkin Park: Hybrid Theory - One disc vinyl LP plus two song 10" EP, Exclusive poster and sticker - Limited to 3,000 copies

The arresting debut album that came to be known by fans and critics alike as one of the premiere albums of the decade! Originally released on October 24, 2000, the album has sold over 10 million copies in the United States alone, where it has since been certified Diamond. Around the world, the album would also garner Multiple Platinum status in over a dozen countries. Hybrid Theory still stands as a contemporary classic in the world of modern rock and alternative music. The bonus 10" EP contains the tracks "One Step Closer" and "My December". This pressing will also contain long out of print poster and original street team sticker re-productions.Here it is reissued on vinyl for the first time in over a decade and cut by Bernie Grundman Mastering to insure the highest possible audio standard.


LP: "Into The Wild - Live At EastWest Studios" - Limited Edition 12" Vinyl EP - Limited to 2,000 copies

Another Record Store Day Exclusive masterpiece from this critically loved and incomparable songwriter and vocalist LP captured completely live without overdubs just the way nature intended. Originally on CD only, this first-time vinyl pressing contains a previously unavailable bonus track "It's Over." Her Warner Bros. debut album will be released later this year.Your friends at Bernie Grundman mastered this with you in mind.

Punch Brothers: "Ahoy!" - 33 1/3 rpm Vinyl EP - Quantity N/A

Nonesuch Records released Punch Brothers' five-song EP Ahoy! digitally and on CD last November. Now on vinyl for the first time, the EP has been pressed on 10" vinyl for Record Store Day, and includes songs by Josh Ritter ("Another New World"), Gillian Welch and David Rawlings ("Down Along the Dixie Line"), Punch Brothers ("Squirrel of Possibility"), and Mclusky ("Icarus Smicarus"), along with one traditional tune, arranged by Punch Brothers ("Moonshiner"). Originallyrecorded during the Nashville sessions for their critically acclaimed 2012 album Who's Feeling Young Now?, these tracks were produced by Jacquire King (Kings of Leon, Tom Waits, Modest Mouse). Cut by Chris Bellman (Bernie Grundman Studios) and pressed at Pallas MFG (Diepholz, Germany) because, sound matters!

Surfer Blood: "Demon Dance" - One disc Colored Vinyl 7" EP - Limited to 5,000A special early look at Surfer Blood's new album PYTHONS, out June 11th featuring the single "Demon Dance" and another previously unreleased album track "Slow Six" pressed on exclusive tri colored- Navy, Blue and White vinyl.

Tegan and Sara: Closer Remixed - One-disc vinyl 12" EP - Limited to 5,000

An exclusive selection of remixes of the hit single "Closer" from Tegan and Sara's revered new album Heartthrob, assembled and released on vinyl in celebration of the album, as special thanks to fans and independent record stores on Record Store Day 2013. Closer Remixed includes 10 exclusive remixes of the new single by Sultan & Ned Shepard, Morgan Page, Until The Ribbon Breaks, The Knocks, Bradley Hale, Yeasayer, Chris Walla, Damian Taylor, Ted Gowans and C-ro & Sofa.


About Record Store Day:

Record Store Day is managed by the Music Monitor Network and is organized in partnership with the Alliance of Independent Media Stores (AIMS), the Coalition of Independent Music Stores (CIMS) and celebrates the culture of independent record stores by playing host to in-store events/performances, signings and special product releases on a global scale on Saturday, April 20th, 2013. For more about Record Store Day, please visit www.recordstoreday.com.

Coachella update: Blur to headline on Friday; Biffy Clyro forced to pull out of Coachella and current U.S. tour

Blur is now slated to headline on Friday night and will take the main stage at 11:35 p.m.

All kinds of quick updates today while I continue to prepare to cover the second weekend of Coachella for The Orange County Register this weekend.

Two big news items to report as they relate to this weekend.

Friday night Britpop pioneers Blur and Stone Roses are swapping places for the second weekend. Last week, Blur delivered one of the best sets at weekend #1, with the Stone Roses then taking the stage but attracting a significantly smaller crowd for their night-ending set on the Coachella Stage. This time around (April 19), Blur is scheduled to take the final spot. Here is a link to an article in the Los Angeles Times that has a few more details.

On a sadder note, Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro will not be returning to Indio to perform this weekend. Here is the official release from Warner Bros. Records I received yesterday (April 17):

BIFFY CLYRO FORCED TO CANCEL REMAINING NORTH AMERICAN SHOWS



Biffy Clyro have today been forced to cut short their North American tour and return to the UK immediately; Simon Neil has been struggling with a serious respiratory problem on the shows, including two nights supporting Muse at Madison Square Garden on Monday and Tuesday of this week, and was advised by doctors that he was endangering his long term health if he chose to continue performing on this run. Thus, further dates with Muse across the US and Canada, plus a second weekend performance at the Coachella Festival this coming Saturday, have now been cancelled.

The band wish to express how sorry they are that they aren't able to carry out the full run of shows, and hope to confirm a new run of North American shows shortly. All UK and European dates this Summer should, however, remain unaffected.

Biffy Clyro have been out on tour supporting their new double album Opposites, which gave the band their first ever UK No1 in early February. Since the release, the band have been on an almost uninterrupted run of arena shows including a triumphant UK tour that culminated at the O2 in London last week.

Sights and Sounds: Rush, Coachella, Outside Lands, 3 Doors Down, Daughtry

Happy Wednesday everybody. Here is a roundup of the latest music news of note...

From left: Rush features Geddy Lee, Neil Peart and Alex Lifeson.

Rush is (finally!) getting into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. USA Today has a nice article focused on Rush's overdue inclusion into the Cleveland hall that will be celebrated with a big concert at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on Thursday featuring the other inductees too. I'll be in Indio getting ready to cover the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, but I hope to catch the ceremony sometime later online or on the tube.

Speaking of Coachella, check out my rundown of some of my favorite acts scheduled to perform at the Empire Polo Club this weekend. Here is a link to my article posted on the Music News Nashville site.

Click here to get the complete rundown on the upcoming Outside Lands music festival, which arrives in San Francisco in early August.

The joint 3 Doors Down/Daughtry tour has added more dates. Click here for more details on the tour.

'The Rolling Stones: Crossfire Hurricane' coming on DVD, Blu-ray and Digital Video

With the Rolling Stones' 50th anniversary celebration in full swing, more big news for fans of the band!

EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS 'THE ROLLING STONES CROSSFIRE HURRICANE' — OUT ON DVD, BLU-RAY AND DIGITAL VIDEO ON MAY 21, 2013

New York, NY (April 16, 2013)—Eagle Rock Entertainment has announced details of the release on DVD and Blu-ray of The Rolling Stones’ Crossfire Hurricane. Available on May 21, 2013, Crossfire Hurricane is the kaleidoscopic new film that documents the key periods of the Rolling Stones’ career and their incredible journey.



Directed by Brett Morgen, Crossfire Hurricane provides a remarkable new perspective on the Stones’ unparalleled journey from blues-obsessed teenagers in the early 60’s to rock royalty. It’s all here in panoramic candor, from the Marquee Club to Hyde Park, from Altamont to Exile, from club gigs to stadium extravaganzas.


With never-before-seen footage and fresh insights from the band themselves, the film will delight, shock and amaze longtime devotees, as well as a new generation of fans, with its uniquely immersive style and tone. Crossfire Hurricane places the viewer right on the frontline of the band’s most legendary escapades.


As befits the first rock band to reach the 50-year milestone with their global stature now greater than ever, the film combines extensive historical footage, much of it widely unseen, with contemporary commentaries by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood and former Stones Bill Wyman and Mick Taylor. Period interviews, extensive live performance material and news archives give the production a truly kinetic aura and no-holds-barred approach.


Bonus features on the DVD and Blu-Ray include previously unreleased concert footage - “Live in Germany ‘65”, NME Poll Winners concert footage from 1964 and 1965, a new interview with director Brett Morgen, “The Sound and Music of Crossfire Hurricane”, footage from The Arthur Haynes Show (1964), and the theatrical trailer.

Crossfire Hurricane received its worldwide premiere at the London Film Festival in October, where Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood all hit the red carpet to the delight of fans and media from all around the world. The film received a similar premiere in the U.S. the following month, hosted by HBO at the Ziegfeld Theatre.

Asked in a formative interview in the film what it is that sets them apart from other groups, Jagger says with quiet understatement: “A chemical reaction seems to have happened.” Keith Richards added, “You can't really stop the Rolling Stones, you know when that sort of avalanche is facing you, you just get out of the way.” It’s been happening ever since, and the life and times of the Rolling Stones have never been as electrifyingly portrayed as they are in Crossfire Hurricane.

Eagle Rock Entertainment is the largest producer and distributor of music programming for DVD, Blu-Ray, TV, Audio and Digital Media in the world. Eagle works directly alongside talent to produce top quality, High Definition and 3D programs, both concerts and documentaries, including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Who, Queen, The Doors, Jeff Beck, U2, Peter Gabriel, Paul McCartney and Ozzy Osbourne. Eagle is a Grammy Award winning company and has received over 30 multi-platinum, over 50 platinum and over 90 gold discs, worldwide. Eagle Rock Entertainment has offices in London, New York, Toronto, Paris and Hamburg.


Follow Eagle Rock Entertainment at:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/EagleRockEnt

Twitter: www.twitter.com/EagleRockNews

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/eaglerocktv

Inbox Update: Frank Zappa, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, 'The Folk Years'

Here is the latest roundup of exciting news items related to upcoming releases. 

Eagle Rock Entertainment Presents:

 

Frank Zappa

A TOKEN OF HIS EXTREME

~On DVD June 4, 2013~

 

 

EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT and the Zappa Family Trust are pleased to announce the first official release ofA TOKEN OF HIS EXTREME, an original program created by FRANK ZAPPA for TV. 

 

Recorded on August 27, 1974 at KCET in Hollywood, A TOKEN OF HIS EXTREME features Frank Zappa with five incredibly talented band members for this extravaganza of live music.  The line-up exists of Frank Zappa—guitar, percussion, vocals; George Duke—keyboards, finger cymbals, tambourine, vocals; Napoleon Murphy Brock—sax, vocals; Ruth Underwood—percussion; Tom Fowler—bass; Chester Thompson—drums.

 

The Program, as edited and thoroughly tweezed & produced by FZ for Honker Home Video includes these delights: The Dog Breath Variations/ Uncle Meat, Montana, Florentine Pogen, Stink-Foot, Pygmy Twylyte, Room Service, Inca Roads, Oh No, Son Of Orange County, More Trouble Every Day, A Token Of My Extreme.

 

Stereo Mixes Produced by Frank Zappa with Kerry McNabb at Paramount Studios, 1974.  Mastered by Bob Ludwig, Gateway Mastering, 2009

 

FZ:  “This was put together with my own money and my own time and it’s been offered to television networks and to syndication and it has been steadfastly rejected by the American television industry.  It has been shown in primetime in France and Switzerland, with marvelous results.  It’s probably one of the finest pieces of video work that any human being has ever done.  I did it myself.  And the animation that you’re gonna see in this was done by a guy named Bruce Bickford, and I hope he is watching the show, because it’s probably the first time that a lot of people in America got a chance to see it.” - FZ appearing on the Mike Douglas Show, 1976

 

Because Token has never been commercially released until now, it is one of the most sought after Frank Zappa programs. 

 

Follow Eagle Rock Entertainment at:

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/EagleRockEnt

Twitter: www.twitter.com/EagleRockNews

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/eaglerocktv

ROBERT RANDOLPH & THE FAMILY BAND

SET TO RELEASE LICKETY SPLIT

JULY 16 ON BLUE NOTE RECORDS;

FIRST NEW STUDIO ALBUM IN THREE YEARS

Robert Randolph, the slide guitar jam/rock/blues phenomenon who’s been captivating global audiences for a decade, announced to reporters assembled at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Music Festival in Madison Square Garden that his long-awaited new album is titled Lickety Split.The new record is Randolph’s first for Blue Note and is to be released July 16. Lickety Split represents the first new studio album for Randolph & The Family Band in three years.

“This record has elements from all of our earlier records,” Randolph explains. “There are cool songs with lots of guitar and we can see the growth of our band in the new recordings.” “With this record we got to reconnect with the originality and creativity that fans fell in love with from the very beginning. This is the music that we started out playing and now that we are back on a roll I'm sure we won't keep our fans waiting three years for the next album.”

Randolph co-produced the 12-track album and co-wrote 9 of the 12 songs.  Randolph has reconnected with songwriting partners such as Drew Ramsey and Shannon Sanders, with whom he composed such Family Band hits as “Ain’t Nothing Nothing Wrong With That” as well as Grammy Award winner Tommy Sims, perhaps best known for “Change The World”.  Any one familiar with Randolph’s high energy live performances are familiar with his love for reinterpreting classic songs Family Band style.  Lickety Split honors that tradition with enthusiastic interpretations of The Ohio Players’ dance-groove “Love Rollercoaster” and The Rascals’ (and Olympics’) “Good Lovin’.” Randolph recorded the album with his longtime bandmates and actual family members, The Family Band, including Marcus Randolph (drums), Danyel Morgan (bass, vocals), Brett Haas (guitar, keys) and Lenesha Randolph (vocals) along with special guests Trombone Shorty and Carlos Santana. The album was engineered by Eddie Kramer [Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin] and mixed by Jim Scott [Tedeschi Trucks].

The new album kicks off with the vigorous anthem “Amped Up” capturing the high-energy excitement that is so identified with Randolph’s legendary stage performances. That celebration of creative renewal continues with “Born Again.” “It's about finding the joy again," says Randolph. "At first it was more of a love song, about the sense you get when you find the right person. Then, as we were recording this new music with a whole new sense of direction and feeling free again it all came together. It's not a religious thing, it's just new energy—which is really the old energy that I had at the beginning of my career."

Randolph also notes that the title track of Lickety Split is one of his favorites.  The song features Randolph joined by his sister Lenesha on vocals.  "What's great about that one is that it's something we actually played in church, just like that," he says. "There's a section in the service called the 'Jubilee Jam Session Time'.  

Robert Randolph & The Family Band first gained national attention with the release of the album Live at the Wetlands in 2002. The concert recording was taped at New York’s historical Wetlands Preserve Club before it closed in 2001. The band followed that acclaimed live album with their first studio recording Unclassified, attracting the attention of Eric Clapton. Since then, the band has toured with Clapton, Santana and the Dave Matthews Band and, as a headline act, has developed a large, passionate following built upon legendary performances at such major festivals as Bonnaroo, Crossroads, Hard Rock Calling, Montreux Jazz, Austin City Limits and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.   Later albums, Colorblind and We Walk This Road,enjoyed critical and commercial success led by signature Randolph composed songs such as "Ain't Nothing Wrong With That". Rolling Stone named Robert Randolph one of "The 100 Greatest Guitarists," the only pedal steel player so honored, calling him "one of the most intense live acts in all of jamdom" and citing his solos as "perpetually cresting, lightning-fast explorations."

“Robert Randolph is an American Original," says Don Was, President of Randolph's new label, Blue Note Records. "He has mastered what is, arguably, the most complex instrument in the world and developed a unique voice that is equal parts street-corner church and Bonnaroo. This album finally captures the energy and excitement of his legendary live performances.”  Fans worldwide have taken notice of this American original, with audiences and critics alike singing the praises of this unique superstar. “I’m the only one who does what I do,” sums up Randolph, simply. After years away from the recording studio, Robert Randolph & The Family Band have finally come back with Lickety Split.

Track listing for Lickety Split:

1.     Amped Up                                               3:18

2.     Born Again                                               4:20

3.     New Orleans                                            4.11

4.     Take The Party                                        4:09

5.     Brand New Wayo                                    4:36

6.     Lickety Split                                             4:01

7.     Blacky Joe                                               5:49

8.     Love Rollercoaster                                  3:12

9.     All American                                            2:43

10.  Get Ready                                                5:07

11.  Welcome Home                                       6:11

12.  Good Lovin'                                              2:55

FROM PETER, PAUL AND MARY AND THE KINGSTON TRIO TO JOAN BAEZ AND BOB DYLAN, STARVISTA ENTERTAINMENT/TIME LIFE RELEASES THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE COLLECTION OF FOLK AND FOLK ROCK HITS

EVER ASSEMBLED

THE FOLK YEARS

8-CD Collection Brings Together Over 120 Original, Classic Songs and the Legendary Artists Who Performed them,

Including The Weavers, Pete Seeger, The Kingston Trio, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Seekers, Simon and Garfunkel, Judy Collins, The Byrds and More;

Also Included in this Handsome Collector’s Set is a 52-page Lyric Book and the Bonus DVD “Legends of Folk: The Village Scene” Featuring 19 Legendary Performances

 

There was a time when folk music was heard all across America, from coffee houses to concert halls, when a new generation of folk groups and singer/songwriters helped to change the sound of music forever.  Now, THE FOLK YEARS brings listeners back to a time when songs were woven from the many threads of America’s rich musical tapestry by now legendary and iconic artists such as The Weavers, The Kingston Trio, Peter, Paul and Mary, Bob Dylan, The Seekers, Joan Baez, Judy Collins, Simon and Garfunkel, The Byrds, Don McLean and many more.  For fans of the genre, THE FOLK YEARS, from StarVista Entertainment/Time Life is the most comprehensive collection of folk and folk rock hits ever assembled. Available in an 8 CD set, the collection is housed in a handsome box which also includes a 52-page lyrics booklet including liner notes and the bonus DVD “Legends of Folk: The Village Scene”, a documentary bursting with rare and historic full-length performances.  THE FOLK YEARS can be purchased either online atwww.timelife.com/products/the-folk-years or by calling 1-800-950-7887.

 

From the greatest hits from the folk revival of the ‘50s and the legendary folk scene of the early ‘60s to the emergence of folk rock, and even the beginning of the singer-songwriter era, never before has one collection captured the very essence of folk music like THE FOLK YEARS.  Timeless songs featured include  “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” and “Tom Dooley” by The Kingston Trio, “Lemon Tree” by Trini Lopez, “California Dreamin’” and “Monday, Monday” by The Mamas & the Papas, “Turn, Turn, Turn (To Everything There is a Season)” and “Mr. Tambourine Man” by the Byrds, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by Peter, Paul and Mary, “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” by Joan Baez, “Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright” and It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue” by Bob Dylan and more.  Also included is “Legends of Folk: The Village Scene” from 4-time Emmy® award winning director Jim Brown and hosted by Peter, Paul and Mary’s Noel Paul Stookey.  Originally seen on PBS, the feature-length documentary includes rare and historic full-length performances by artists like Simon Garfunkel and Joan Baez, plus Dylan’s historic performance of “Blowin’ in the Wind” at the Newport Folk Festival of 1963.  It also features interviews with such folk luminaries as Michelle Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas, Don McLean, John Sebastian of The Lovin’ Spoonful, Maria Muldaur and others who strummed and sang through the ‘60s. 

For any fan of folk and folk rock music, FOLK YEARS is the only comprehensive collection  delivering all the classic songs and legendary artists into one unforgettable CD/DVD set.