My favorite reissues, retrospectives and special sets of 2013

Amidst a parade of wonderful new studio albums that saw their release in 2013 came an equally-strong number of reissues, retrospectives, historic live collections and more. Here are a few of my favorites…

1. The Beatles, Live at the BBC (Capitol)
In an age where seemingly everything ever recorded by the Fab Four has been issued (with the obvious exception of the band's Let It Be documentary), imagine the surprise of hearing dozens of live tracks recorded by the Beatles that were broadcast by the BBC in the UK between March 1962 and June 1965. Highlights on the reissued version of the original Live at the BBC (originally released in 1994) include a rollicking take on Chuck Berry's "Carol" and the only recording by John, Paul, George and Ringo playing the tuneful Lennon-McCartney composition "I'll Be On My Way." Volume 2 is also a gem, featuring a fiery version of Berry's "I'm Talking About You" that was a direct-to-airwaves performance that is thankfully heard again. A lovely performance of the standard "Beautiful Dreamer" is also a standout on the second volume.
Get On Air - Live At The BBC Volume 2
 
2. Humble Pie, Rockin' the Fillmore: The Complete Recordings (Omnivore Recordings)
The late '60s and early '70s produced a number of fantastic British blues-rocks bands including Led Zeppelin and Ten Years After.  The recent release of Humble Pie's Rockin' the Fillmore: The Complete Recordings has cast a renewed focus on the British band co-founded by Steve Marriott and Peter Frampton. The four-disc set features all audio recordings pulled from Humble Pie's four shows played over the course of two consecutive nights at the legendary Fillmore East in May 1971. Highlights include the textured versions of "I Walk On Gilded Splinters" and bone-crunching rocker "I Don't Need No Doctor."
Get Performance: Rockin' the Fillmore-Complete Recording here


3. Three O'Clock, The Hidden World Revealed (Omnivore Recordings)
The so-called "Paisley Underground" was a psychedelic-meets-melody rock scene that struck Southern California in the early 1980s, and Three O'Clock was one of its most powerful proponents. The band's triumphant return to Coachella earlier this year may have been fueled by work on the newly-released "The Hidden World Revealed," which features 20 sterling tracks (10 of them previously unissued). Those who buy the CD also get a colorful booklet with liner notes from band members Michael Querico and Louis Gutierrez.
Purchase The Hidden World Revealed here


4. Keane, The Best Of (Island Records)
Since catching Keane soar at Coachella back in 2005, I've been a fervid fan of the rousing English alternative outfit. Now comes the first-ever greatest hits collection from the group, celebrating the first decade of Keane's discography complete with two discs full of winning singles, sterling B sides, a live track and even three new songs (including the captivating new single "Higher Than The Sun").
Get Best of Keane [2 Disc Deluxe Edition]


5. Alex Chilton, Electricity by Candlelight (Bar None Records)
Although Alex Chilton originally achieved fame in his teens as lead singer of the Box Tops in the 1960s, it was his role as a member of the seminal '70s power pop band Big Star that earned him a permanent place among rock's elite. Now Chilton, who died at age 59 after suffering a heart attack on March 17, 2010, is being celebrated via the release of a powerful live solo performance recorded at the Knitting Factory in New York City on Feb. 13, 1997. After a blackout and loss of power, most of the concertgoers headed home. Those who didn't were rewarded when Chilton came out and proceeded to play an acoustic performance by candlelight that featured Loudon Wainwright III's "Motel Blues," the Beach Boys' "Wouldn't It Be Nice" and "Surfer Girl," and more than a dozen other artfully reworked covers played with an authenticity  for the ages.
Get Electricity By Candlelight / NYC 2/13/97


6. Neil Young, Live at the Cellar Door (Reprise)
Neil Young has never stopped exploring or trying new things, but listening to the singer-songwriter's Live at the Cellar Door recorded in the fall of 1970, it's simply magical to hear potent performances of many of his finest early gems and realize he was among the original pioneers blending rock, folk and country into timeless masterworks. "Cinnamon Girl" was performed on piano (rather than the now-standard hard rock guitar version), lending the song a decidedly haunting vibe. Among the other classics captured on tape were "Only Love Can Break Your Heart," "Old Man" (which wouldn't be widely heard until "Harvest" came out two years later) and "I Am A Child."
Purchase Live At The Cellar Door here


7. Alvin Lee, The Last Show (Rainman Records)
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, no British band journeyed to America more often than Ten Years After. Indeed, the quartet visited the United States 28 times between 1968 and 1974. Led by trailblazing singer-guitarist Alvin Lee, the genre-busting band blended rock, blues and jazz in ways that remain relevant today. The band's mind-blowing performance of "I'm Going Home" at Woodstock in August 1969 showcased Lee's virtuoso skills on lead guitar and his powerful baritone vocals. Lee died unexpectedly on March 6, 2013, but his final concert performance recorded in Raalte, Holland 10 months before his untimely passing is now available on a wonderful 14-track audio CD. Featuring a version of the iconic "I'm Going Home" as well as other Ten Years After staples and solo gems, the packaging for the aptly-titled The Last Show includes photos taken at that final show as well as personal notes from his wife, band mates and even fans.
Get Last Show here


8. Emerson Lake & Palmer, Live In Montreal 1977 (Shout! Factory)
More than 35 years after it was staged, Emerson Lake & Palmer's epic Aug. 26, 1977 concert at Montreal's Olympic Stadium was released. Live In Montreal 1977 captures the legendary supergroup (Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, Carl Palmer) performing with a mighty 70-piece orchestra in front of its largest-ever stadium audience, playing potent versions of classics including "Lucky Man" and "Karn Evil 9."
Buy Live in Montreal 1977


9. Tommy Bolin, Whirlwind (Purple Pyramid Records/Cleopatra Records)
Although he was only 25 when he died Dec. 4, 1976, guitarist Tommy Bolin nevertheless managed to make a lasting mark as a member of Zephyr (1969-1971), The James Gang (1973-74) and Deep Purple (1975-76). Now comes the aptly-titled Whirlwind, a 2-disc audio collection of rare, unreleased recordings recorded by the groundbreaking guitarist between 1972 and 1975. From the instrumental heavy blues rock of "Cucumber Jam" and free jazz-rock of "Heartlight" and YES-styled prog-rock tear on his instrumental "Hoka-Hay!," Bolin blended the groundbreaking trajectory of Jimi Hendrix with the speedy licks of Ten Years After's Alvin Lee.
Get Whirlwind 2Cd Edition here


10. The Lumineers, The Lumineers: Deluxe Edition (Dualtone Music Group)
Released in late August 2013, the expanded version of The Lumineers' 2012 debut features all of that album's tracklist as well as five additional songs and a bonus DVD featuring 25 minutes of music videos, tour footage and even interviews with members of the Denver-based ensemble. There is also a wonderful booklet with photos, song lyrics lyrics and more.

Purchase The Lumineers (Deluxe Edition)

Brian Setzer still rockin' a cool yuletide in L.A.

My review of the Brian Setzer Orchestra originally ran on The Orange County Register site on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2013.

His annual Christmas bash gained extra sparkle by relocating to the Oscars’ home.

Brian Setzer in action at the Dolby Theatre on Dec. 21, 2013.

With Gibson Amphitheatre having closed earlier this year to make way for Universal Studios’ Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction, the Brian Setzer Orchestra relocated its 10th annual Christmas Rocks concert from that former home to the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

Fortunately, this was no case of the Grinch stealing Christmas from the musical faithful. The change of venue did little to dampen spirits or the celebrative vibe of the capacity crowd Saturday night (Dec. 21, 2013), who cheered and moved to the ensemble’s retro grooves for 110 fast-moving minutes presented on a stage decorated with shimmering Christmas trees, a larger-than-life nutcracker, a smiling snowman and a happy Santa.

Setzer was backed by his 15-member big band and two female singers, whose collective strengths enlivened a mix of big band, swing and rockabilly sounds. Warming up with an elaborate, upbeat arrangement of the theme from '60s TV show The Munsters, the guitarist and his crew then got everyone into the holiday spirit with "Dig That Crazy Santa Claus." Both selections provided the 54-year-old plenty of chances to unleash his crisp and impressive leads.

While the overall feel was that of a holiday party, with many in the audience adding to the fun by donning Santa caps, make no mistake that Setzer and his players still served up energetic and elaborate versions of oft-heard seasonal songs. "Sleigh Ride" retained a nostalgic feel yet soared via Setzer's speedy fretwork. "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus" was offered in a marathon run that featured the horn players on a number of impressive solos.

More challenging was their rendition of "The Nutcracker Suite," devised by the late Frank Comstock. That piece found the orchestra blending key sections of Tchaikovsky's ballet score with all the roaring dynamics in its swing arsenal.

As at past performances, there were times when the majority of players exited the stage, leaving Setzer to lead his drummer and stand-up bassist through rockabilly selections. Among the highlights from that segment were Eddie Cochran's rollicking "Nervous Breakdown," a joyful "Jingle Bell Rock" and the Stray Cats tune "Fishnet Stockings." That last one found Setzer down on his knees to unleash some of his most rousing licks of the night, fully delivering on his "blues on three cups of coffee" spoken introduction.

The night didn't end until BSO dipped back one more time into the Stray Cats’ catalog for a reworked "Rock This Town" that seemed to signal the end of the night. But extended applause brought smiles to everyone on stage, with few in the audience leaving the theater. As the group launched into "Jingle Bells," Santa emerged and fake snow began to fall on the crowd, to the obvious delight of fans – a Hollywood ending for sure.

Those who got to Dolby early caught a fantastic set by the Aussie rockabilly trio Firebird. While they only performed for 23 minutes, singer/guitarist Pete Belair, singer/bassist Chris Nomad and drummer Damian Singh impressed with strong original material and mighty chops.

Also performing was Drake Bell, the Santa Ana-born actor-turned-musician who rose to fame on Nickelodeon. Though he hasn’t issued a full-length effort since 2006, he has a new holiday single out, “Christmas Promise,” and Saturday night displayed strong singing as he led his band through a number of reworked covers, the best being a cool handling of the Kinks' "Sunny Afternoon."

Photo: Armando Brown, for the Register

Sights and Sounds: Johnny Cash, Rhonda Vincent

Even with the arrival of Christmas this week, there is exciting news for music fans wondering what new releases are coming in 2014...

Lost Johnny Cash Album to see release in March 2014

For fans of the Man in Black, Christmas has come a few days early courtesy of the announcement that a full-length album from Johnny Cash will be released by Legacy Recordings/Sony Music on March 25, 2014.

Comprised of a dozen recently-discovered studio recordings, Out Among the Stars boasts songs recorded in 1981 and in 1984. Several of the songs are reportedly duets which feature Cash joining forces with June Carter Cash or Waylon Jennings. Check out George A. Paul's Music Minded blog post here to get all the details on this exciting release. 


Rhonda Vincent set to release new album 'Only Me' on January 28, 2014

2-Disc set features mixture of bluegrass and country; features songs with Willie Nelson and Daryle Singletary

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (December 23, 2013) – Five-time Grammy nominee Rhonda Vincent, the New Queen of Bluegrass as deemed by the Wall Street Journal, is clearing the lane for her upcoming 2-Disc combination release that includes six-songs each of Bluegrass and Country.  

The project, appropriately titled Only Me, serves as a reminder why Rhonda Vincent & The Rage is the most awarded band in bluegrass music.  Only Me will be released on Upper Management Music, and available where all music is sold on January 28, 2014.
 
Sticking with her musical roots, Rhonda is joined by Daryle Singletary on “We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds,” while Willie Nelson adds vocals and a guitar solo to the title track. 
 
“The Bluegrass pickers on this song are some of the best that I have ever heard. When I think of Bluegrass, this is the sound that I hear,” says Willie Nelson.  “Rhonda’s voice is beautiful. I am thankful for her letting me be a part of it all.”
 
Track Listing:

Disc One/Bluegrass 
1.   Busy City
2.   I’d Rather Hear I Don’t Love You (Than Nothing At All)
3.   Only Me (Featuring Willie Nelson)
4.   I Need Somebody Bad Tonight
5.   We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds (Featuring Daryle Singletary)
6.   It’s Never Too Late
 
Musician Credits:
Hunter Berry - fiddles
Brent Burke - resophonic guitar
Mickey Harris - upright bass
Aaron McDaris - banjo
Rhonda Vincent - mandolin
Josh Williams - acoustic guitar 
           
Disc Two/Country
1.    Teardrops Over You
2.    Once A Day
3.    Beneath Still Waters
4.    Bright Lights & Country Music
5.    When The Grass Grows Over Me
6.    Drivin’ Nails
 
Musician Credits: 
Tim Crouch - fiddles
Kevin Grantt - upright bass
Carl Jackson - acoustic guitar
Mike Johnson - steel guitar
Catherine Marx - piano (all songs except Drivin' Nails)
James Mitchell - electric guitar
Michael Rojas - piano (Drivin' Nails)
Lonnie Wilson - drums
 
This project answers the question of whether Rhonda’s voice is bluegrass or country; by confirming, “it’s in the perception of the listener.”   Titled Only Me to further make the statement that either way, bluegrass or country, it’s Rhonda!

Beyonce New Album (2013) Commentary

Sights and Sounds: Rosanne Cash, Tears For Fears

Although we're in the thick of the 2013 holiday season, my inbox is lighting up with news about 2014 releases...I am especially excited to news as it relates to Rosanne Cash and Tears For Fears...

ROSANNE CASH LAUNCHES NEW ALBUM, THE RIVER & THE THREAD, WITH JANUARY APPEARANCES ON   “LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN,” NPR’S “MORNING EDITION” CASH PLAYS THE TROUBADOUR IN WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA ON JANUARY 8   “WORLD CAFÉ,” “ACOUSTIC CAFÉ,” KCRW’S “MORNING BECOMES ECLECTIC” AIR WEEK OF ALBUM’S RELEASE   ALBUM OUT JANUARY 14; FIRST SINGLE “MODERN BLUE” IMPACTS RADIO THIS WEEK   “MESMERIZING…CASH PAINTS HER MASTERPIECE” – UNCUT, 10 OUT OF 10

Rosanne Cash’s new album, The River & The Thread, comes out January 14 on Blue Note Records and she will be celebrating with a series of high profile media appearances and performances. Week of release, she will perform on “Late Show with David Letterman” (Thursday, January 16), NPR’s “Morning Edition” will profile the album and Cash will be doing an in-store performance and signing at the Barnes & Noble in NYC’s Union Square. Other release week activities include a special live hour-long broadcast on New York station WFUV (January 13th at 8 PM) and appearances on NPR’s “World Café,” the syndicated show “Acoustic Café” and the talk radio institution “Imus in the Morning.”   In the lead-up to the album’s release, Cash and producer John Leventhal will premiere songs from The River & The Thread during an intimate live show at the historic Troubadour in West Hollywood, CA on Wednesday, January 8. While in Los Angeles, the duo will also record an Apogee Session for renowned public radio station KCRW, which will air on  “Morning Becomes Eclectic” on January 16, and “Yahoo! Ram Country,” which is set to premiere on January 22.   In a unique offer that gives listeners a fuller preview of the depth of the album, fans who pre-order The River & The Thread on iTunes will instantly receive downloads of three separate tracks: “Modern Blue,” “A Feather’s Not a Bird” and “Night School.” “Modern Blue,” which premiered today HERE on Esquire.com, is the album’s first single and impacted AAA and Americana radio this week with more than 40 stations already spinning it. Uncut called “A Feather’s Not a Bird” a “sinewy, swampy mix of hot-wired guitars, silky harmonies and a revelatory, ominously impassioned vocal.” “Night School” was also singled out by Uncut (they called it the album’s “most daring, surprising piece”) and it also made quite an impression on Elvis Costello, who included it in a recent Rolling Stone “Guest List” column noting, “It comes into my head when I’m least expecting it.” These three tracks can also be purchased individually at all digital formats.   The physical album can be pre-ordered in standard, deluxe and vinyl formats onAmazon.com or in special fan bundles on Cash’s website, www.rosannecash.com. The limited edition deluxe version comes as a 36-page hard cover book filled with photos and mementos from Rosanne’s musical journey. It contains three bonus studio tracks not included on the standard edition: covers of Townes Van Zandt’s “Two Girls” and Jesse Winchester’s “Biloxi” and the Cash/Leventhal original “Your Southern Heart.”   The River & The Thread contains 11 original songs written by Cash and John Leventhal, who also served as producer, arranger and guitarist. It features appearances by Cory Chisel, Rodney Crowell (who also co-wrote one song), Amy Helm, Kris Kristofferson, Allison Moorer, John Prine, Derek Trucks, John Paul White (The Civil Wars), Tony Joe White and Gabe Witcher (The Punch Brothers).It follows 2009’s The List, which was nominated for two GRAMMY® Awards, won the Americana Music Award for Album of the Year and was a critics’ favorite. The River & The Thread has won early acclaim, with Uncut hailing it as a “Mesmerizing trek through the land of Dixie,” giving it a 10 out of 10 rating and observing: ”Cash paints her masterpiece.” The Oxford American called it “the best music of her career” and tapped the song entitled “The Long Way Home” for the “Tennessee” music compilation CD that accompanies the magazine’s music issue, which is currently available at newsstands. Garden & Gun lauded the album as “elegiac and elegant” while Bust noted that it  “paints a distinctly American portrait with small, gorgeous strokes.”    Born in Memphis and raised in California, Cash has recorded 15 albums, including 1981’s Seven Year Ache and 1987’s King’s Record Shop – both certified Gold. Rosannehas charted 21 Top 40 country singles, 11 of which climbed to No. 1. She has received 12 GRAMMY nominations, winning in 1985. Cash has also published four books, including her 2010 bestselling memoir, Composed, which The Chicago Tribune hailed as "one of the best accounts of an American life you will likely ever read." Her essays and fiction have appeared in The New York Times, Rolling Stone, New York magazine and the Oxford American, among others. She recently wrapped up a three-day residency at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC.   The River & The Thread is available for pre-order now on:  iTunes Amazon.com www.rosannecash.com Tears For Fears to release new album in 2014; hear the duo's version of Animal Collective’s ‘My Girls' online Tears For Fears: Roland Orzabal (left) and Curt Smith performing at Pacific Amphitheatre in July 2007. I am more than thrilled to hear that Tears For Fears have just announced plans to release new original music in 2014. You can check out George A. Paul's Music Minded blog here for the details. I also encourage you to hear TFF's take on Animal Collective’s "My Girls" via the Tears For Fears official Web site. Listen and watch the video here.  Check out my concert review of Tears For Fear's memorable performance at Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, CA, that ran in the Orange County Register back in July 2007. Click here to read the review. Special thanks to Kelly A. Swift for the use of her Tears For Fears image.

CD Reviews Joan Jett Unvarnished - Toad The Wet Sprocket New Constellation

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Inbox Update: 'The Wolf of Wall Street' soundtrack; Mindy Smith

If it's Tuesday, you know there is music news. I'm especially excited that 7Horse is getting some widespread attention via the release of 'The Wolf of Wall Street' soundtrack. Here is the latest roundup of gems pulled from my inbox...

VIRGIN RECORDS RELEASES THE WOLF OF WALL STREET - MUSIC FROM THE MOTION PICTURE TOMORROW, DECEMBER 17 Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Who Appear in the Film,  Contribute Exclusive Recording of "Goldfinger" Soundtrack Also Includes 7Horse's "Meth Lab Zoso Sticker," Plus Classic Tracks by Bo Diddley, Billy Joel, Howlin' Wolf, Eartha Kitt, Malcolm McLaren, Romeo Void, The Lemonheads, Allen Toussaint and Many Others The Wolf of Wall Street, Directed by Martin Scorsese and Starring Academy Award® Nominee Leonardo DiCaprio, Opens December 25

Virgin Records will release The Wolf of Wall Street - Music from the Motion Picture digitally on December 17, with the physical release to follow on January 7, 2014.  Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings' cover of "Goldfinger" is exclusive to the soundtrack and was recorded at Daptone House of Soul in Brooklyn. Cast as a wedding band, Jones & the Dap-Kings can be seen performing the track in the film. ("Goldfinger" - written by John Barry, Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley - was originally performed by Shirley Bassey as the title track of the iconic 1964 James Bond film.) "Meth Lab Zoso Sticker" by 7Horse, the new project from dada's Joie Calio and Phil Leavitt, also appears on the soundtrack. In The Wolf of Wall Street, revered filmmaker Martin Scorsese directs the story of New York stockbroker Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio). From the American dream to corporate greed, Belfort goes from penny stocks and righteousness to IPOs and a life of corruption in the late 80s and early 90s.  Excess success and affluence in his early twenties as founder of the brokerage firm Stratton Oakmont warranted Belfort the title - "The Wolf of Wall Street."  Named as one of the Top 10 films of the year by critics at Rolling Stone and The New Yorker, The Wolf of Wall Street was nominated for a Golden Globe® award for Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy and DiCaprio was nominated for Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy for his role as Belfort. In addition to the two contemporary recordings, the soundtrack is packed with mid-20th century classics, including two tracks by Bo Diddley ("Pretty Thing" and "Road Runner"), Howlin' Wolf's "Smokestack Lightning," Eartha Kitt's "C'est Si Bon" and Allen Toussaint's "Cast Your Fate To The Wind," plus Billy Joel's "Movin' Out," Romeo Void's "Never Say Never," Malcolm McLaren's "Double Dutch," The Lemonheads' rendition of the Paul Simon-penned "Mrs. Robinson" and much more. See below for the complete track listing. Randall Poster is the Music Supervisor for the soundtrack. The Wolf of Wall Street marks the third film on which Poster has worked with director Scorsese. The two worked together on The Aviator and Hugo and Mr. Scorsese also asked Poster to oversee the music on the award winning "Boardwalk Empire" for HBO. Poster won a GRAMMY® Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media for producing Volume 1 of the "Boardwalk Empire" soundtrack. Robbie Robertson - who has collaborated with Scorsese on numerous films, including Raging Bull, The King of Comedy, The Color Of Money, Casino, Gangs of New York, The Departed and Shutter Island - served as Executive Music Producer of the soundtrack. A Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and winner of a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award, Robertson was the primary songwriter for The Band, penning Americana classics like "The Weight" and "Up on Cripple Creek." Scorsese's The Last Waltz documented The Band's farewell concert. Paramount Pictures and Red Granite Pictures present an Appian Way and Sikelia Production and an Emjag Production of a Martin Scorsese film. The Wolf of Wall Street stars Leonardo DiCaprio alongside Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie, Matthew McConaughey, Kyle Chandler, Rob Reiner, Jon Favreau, and Jean Dujardin. The film is directed by Martin Scorsese, from a screenplay by Terence Winter, based upon the book by Jordan Belfort, and produced by Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, Riza Aziz, Joey McFarland and Emma Koskoff. For more information on the film, visithttp://www.thewolfofwallstreet.com/. The Wolf of Wall Street - Music from the Motion Picture - Available Here: http://smarturl.it/TWOWSiTunes http://smarturl.it/TWOWSAmazon  Track Listing - The Wolf of Wall Street - Music from the Motion Picture   1. Mercy, Mercy, Mercy! - Cannonball Adderley 2. Dust My Broom - Elmore James 3. Bang! Bang! - Joe Cuba 4. Movin' Out (Anthony's Song) - Billy Joel 5. C'est Si Bon - Eartha Kitt 6. Goldfinger - Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings 7. Pretty Thing - Bo Diddley 8. Moonlight In Vermont - Ahmad Jamal Trio 9. Smokestack Lightning - Howlin' Wolf 10. Hey Leroy, Your Mama's Callin' You - Jimmy Castor 11. Double Dutch - Malcolm McLaren 12. Never Say Never - Romeo Void 13. Meth Lab Zoso Sticker - 7Horse 14. Road Runner - Bo Diddley 15. Mrs. Robinson - The Lemonheads 16.Cast Your Fate To The Wind - Allen Toussaint MINDY SMITH’S “AULD LANG SYNE” VIDEO PREMIERES AT USA TODAY SNOWED IN FIVE-SONG HOLIDAY EP GARNERS ACCOLADES FEATURES TWO ORIGINAL COMPOSITIONS AND REUNITES THE SONGSTRESS WITH PRODUCER FROM CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED ALBUMS  ‘STAGE IT’ LIVE STREAM CONCERT ON DECEMBER 19 TO BENEFIT THE DAVE THOMAS FOUNDATION “The Nashville-based singer-songwriter’s 2007 album “My Holiday” remains one of the most unassumingly moving holiday albums, and her new five-song EP makes an excellent companion.” –Los Angeles Times “…Smith shows off a vocal range that reaffirms her place as one of alt-country’s most beautiful vocalists. This EP is a winner.” –Engine 145  “It’s sweet and humble, like the best Christmas discs should be.” –Knoxville News Sentinel “… glistening new holiday EP.” –Boston Globe Critically acclaimed singer/songwriter Mindy Smith’s video for “Auld Lang Syne” premiered today at USA Today.com: http://usat.ly/19atRhi. A fan-generated photo album, Smith solicited pictures from fans to compile the video, which celebrates those we love and those we will never forget. Featured on her second holiday effort, Snowed In (Giant Leap/TVX Records), “Auld Lang Syne” is one of three standards on the five-song EP which also includes two original compositions, “Tomorrow Is Christmas Day” and the title track. Snowed In is available at all online digital outlets and at www.mindysmithmusic.com. Co-produced with Steve Buckingham, who co-produced Smith’s first three critically acclaimed efforts, the EP was recorded and mixed by Ed Seay at LOUD Recording in Nashville, TN, and features some of Nashville ‘s best players, including Lex Price (mandolin), Brent Mason (guitar), Michael Rhodes (bass), Eddie Bayers (drums, percussion), John Hobbs (Piano, B-3, Fender Rhodes), and Andrea Zonn (viola). After successful weekend performances at the Grand Ole Opry and the Franklin Theatre in Nashville, Smith will perform a live stream StageIt concert December 19, to benefit The Dave Thomas Foundation. To buy an exclusive ticket, visit: http://www.stageit.com/mindysmith/get_snowed_in_an_intimate_evening_concert_with_mindy_smith/31968. StageIt is online-only performances where artists perform and interact live with fans. The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to finding adoptive homes for children waiting in North America’s foster care system. “As an adopted child myself, I was so fortunate to grow up in the most loving family a kid could ever have,” Smith noted. “However, I know there are millions of children out there waiting for their miracle of being adopted.” Since she charmed fans with her rendition of “Jolene” featured on the much-praised Dolly Parton tribute album, Just Because I’m A Woman, and the release of her 2004 debut, One Moment More, Smith has sold nearly half-a-million albums, including Mindy Smith, her self-released fifth album. She subsequently released Long Island Shores (Vanguard, 2006), My Holiday (Vanguard, 2007) and Stupid Love (Vanguard, 2009). TRACK LISTING: 1.     Tomorrow Is Christmas Day* 2.     What Child Is This 3.     Snowed In* 4.     Silent Night 5.     Auld Lang Syne *Original composition

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame set to induct Nirvana, Hall and Oates, Peter Gabriel, KISS, Linda Ronstadt and Cat Stevens in 2014

The news is everywhere this morning, but I wanted to opine regarding this morning's announcement of those artists set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 10, 2014.

Daryl Hall, left, and John Oates in Costa Mesa on Aug. 8, 2013.
Photo: Kelly A. Swift

It's long overdue, but I'm thrilled that Hall and Oates are finally getting their due by the rock hall and its voters. It's also clear that Peter Gabriel and Nirvana deserve to be inducted, and I was more than happy when I heard that Bruce Springsteen's legendary E Street Band will be inducted through the Award for Musical Excellence. 

I'm not as thrilled with the selection of KISS, Linda Ronstadt and Cat Stevens over the more talented (and arguably influential) likes of heavy metal pioneer Deep Purple, '60s genre-benders Zombies and seminal prog-rock troupe Yes.

Let's start with Cat Stevens, whose gentle folk-rock style yielded a number of '70s hits but left no lasting legacy that I have detected in my many decades of covering a variety of artists. While folk-styled artists might give a nod to the likes of Bob Dylan, Neil Young, John Denver or Bruce Cockburn, Stevens doesn't even rank as an afterthought. Linda Ronstadt was a great singer, but her lack of personality on stage and songwriting credits makes her undeserving of a place in the Hall of Fame. Indeed when I saw her back in 1980 or so, she sang powerfully but stood in front of the mic like a statue and left the heavy lifting to her excellent band. Boring.

When looking at KISS, I am torn. While I am not a big fan of the band's music, I acknowledge the group's influence and staying power. We all know it isn't music alone that gets artists placed into the Cleveland-based Hall of Fame (ask Madonna), so I can't argue much with KISS' selection by the more than 700 voters from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation.

If it were up to me, I would have voted for Deep Purple and the Zombies and let Stevens and Ronstadt wait for another year or so to see if a weaker field elevated their status. I would have ultimately cast a ballot for Yes over KISS too.

Hope to see ceremony, especially Daryl Hall and John Oates. When I spoke to John Oates in 2008 (that is John with yours truly backstage at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano in October 2008), it was clear he was not certain of the likelihood of the duo getting into the Rock Hall; it's about time.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM DARYL HALL AND JOHN OATES

LOS ANGELES, Dec 17, 2013- "Both Daryl and John are pleased to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  And, we will be participating in the ceremony at the Barclays on April 10th.Without the efforts of our fans, this would not have happened."  - Jonathan Wolfson, Manager of Daryl Hall and John Oates

A holiday party primer: George A. Paul's overview of 2013 Christmas music titles available now

By George A. Paul

If you're looking for fresh Christmas music to liven up your holiday party or tree trimming festivities over the next 10 days, here are some suggestions...

Artist: Nick Lowe
Title: Quality Street: A Seasonal Selection for All the Family (Yep Roc)
You might enjoy if you like: Buddy Holly, Elvis Costello, Squeeze, Graham Parker
Tell me more: The veteran English pub rocker-turned-classy balladeer takes on sharp holiday tunes by Ron Sexsmith, Roger Miller, Roy Wood, plus a few of his own shrewd originals (one was penned with Ry Cooder) and dresses them up in vintage rockabilly and skiffle clothes that sound as if they were recorded at Memphis' Sun Studio. 
Highlights: "Christmas at the Airport," "The North Pole Express," "A Dollar Short of Happy"
Information: yeproc.com, nicklowe.net
Get Quality Street: a Seasonal Selection now


Artist: Erasure
Title: Snow Globe (Mute Records)
You might enjoy if you like: OMD, Pet Shop Boys, Sparks
Tell me more: Co-produced by longtime associate Gareth Jones, the UK synth-pop duo mixes melancholy ("In the Bleak Midwinter"), regal ("Silver Bells"), mid-tempo dance ("Gaudete," where Andy Bells sings in Latin; the frisky "There'll Be No Tomorrow") and bleak ("Blood on the Snow") tunes with equal aplomb. Musical mastermind Vince Clarke's plunging noises during the gradual dance rhythm of "The Christmas Son" is especially fun. 
Highlights: "Bells of Love," "Sleep Quietly," "Loving Man"
Information: mute.com, erasureinfo.com
Get Snow Globe here


Artist: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Title: It Feels Like Christmas Time (Savoy Jazz Records)
You might enjoy if you like: Brian Setzer Orchestra, Squirrel Nut Zippers, Cherry Poppin' Daddies
Tell me more: Scotty Morris and company get into the swing of things with a Hot Club of Cowtown-styled "All I Want for Christmas (Is My Two Front Teeth)," the snazzy Dixieland in "Frosty the Snowman" and "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" (sung by bassist Dirk Shumaker). Guest vocal trio She, Her & I give the proceedings an Andrew Sisters vibe. Bonus points for including two post-Christmas numbers: "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" (a laid back duet with Anna Kasper) and the mostly instrumental "Auld Lang Syne," patterned after a party countdown to midnight. 
Highlights: "Run Rudolph Run"
Information: savoyjazz.com, bbvd.com
Get your copy of It Feels Like Christmas Time - Amazon Exclusive


Artist: Jewel
Title: Let It Snow: A Holiday Collection (Trust Fund Baby Records)
You might enjoy if you like: Sarah McLachlan, Shawn Colvin, Joni Mitchell
Tell me more: A decade after her first Christmas CD, the folk/pop artist puts her frothy pipes around the countrified "Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow," does an adept job on the elegant Latin song "Panis Angelicus," uses an electronic vocal effect on "Blue Crystal Glow" and corrals Vince Gill to play some electrifying guitar licks during the mild rocker "White Christmas." 
Highlights: "Silver Bells," the title track
Information: jeweljk.com
Buy Jewel - Let It Snow: A Holiday Collection LIMITED EDITION CD Includes BONUS Track "Deck The Halls"


Artist: Kelly Clarkson
Title: Wrapped in Red (RCA Records)
You might enjoy if you like: Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Pink
Tell me more: Featuring the Motown-styled pop hit single "Underneath the Tree," Clarkson has created a jubilant, diverse album with four fine originals. There's a jazzy "Baby, It's Cold Outside" (Ronnie Dunn is her duet partner), a reverent "Silent Night" (Reba and Trisha Yearwood share the verses), the rocking' "Run Rudolph Run" and some dynamic, brassy ballads. 
Highlights: "4 Carats," "Blue Christmas," "Every Christmas"
Information: kellyclarkson.com, rcarecords.com
Purchase Wrapped in Red here


Artists: Alabama, Martina McBride, Neil Diamond, Johnny Cash, others
Title: The Classic Christmas Album (Sony Music Entertainment)
You might enjoy if you like: Any of the artists involved
Tell me more: This compilation series gathers selected tracks from artists who have put out more than one holiday collection in the past and typically averages 12-16 songs each. 

Alabama's country title is culled from their 1985 classic Christmas (which I play every year) and 1996's Volume II. McBride's is mostly sourced off her traditional, classical-flavored 1998 effort White Christmas (and its 2007 reissue), plus a pair of virtual duets with Elvis Presley and Dean Martin. Diamond goes the chorale route with half of the numbers here. Cash's come from 1963's The Christmas Spirit, 1972's Family Christmas and 1980's Classic Christmas. The Man in Black is joined by his brother Tommy, wife June Carter and her family, plus the Statler Brothers on songs ranging from spiritual to chorale.

John Denver, Andy Williams, Kenny G, Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, Gladys Knight & the Pips, George Jones & Tammy Wynette, Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Luther Vandross, Barry Manilow round out this series.

Highlights: "Christmas in Dixie," "Joseph and Mary's Boy" (Alabama); "Away in a Manger" (McBride); "You Make it Feel Like Christmas" (Diamond); "Blue Christmas," "Little Drummer Boy" (Cash)
Information: LegacyRecordings.com
Buy Johnny Cash's The Classic Christmas Album


Artist: Dave Barnes
Title: A December to Remember (50 Year Plan Records)
You might enjoy if you like: Mat Kearney, Gavin DeGraw
Tell me more: With a foot in both the Christian and country music worlds, the South Carolina native has written songs alongside Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Billy Currington and more. His second Christmas album adeptly dives into the jazz and R&B realms, with a touch of spiritual for good measure. 
Highlights: "Christmas Eve," "When Love Was Born"
Information: davebarnes.com
Buy A December to Remember here


Artist: Bad Religion
Title: Christmas Songs (Epitaph Records)
You might enjoy if you like: Ramones, Descendents
Tell me more: This holiday release finds the LA punk stalwarts blitzing through nine tracks in approximately 20 minutes, including "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "What Child is This" and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen." No messing with the usual Bad Religion formula here. Sometimes "loud fast rules" even during the holidays. For the final track, they add a new mix of 1990s alt-rock hit "American Jesus" (I couldn't tell much different from the original). The band is donating 20 percent of all album proceeds to SNAP - the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. 
Highlights: "Little Drummer Boy," "Angels We Have Heard On High
Information: christmas.badreligion.com

Get special Christmas Songs (LP+CD) version here