Catching up on 2021 releases: Spygenius, James McMurtry, The Poppermost, Big Stir Records, Paul McCartney

With 2021 rapidly drawing to a close, here are some of the year's notable releases that I missed featuring earlier in the year.

Artist: Spygenius

Title: Spygenius Blow Their Covers (Big Stir Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Monkees, Traffic, The Beatles, Spygenius, power pop

Tell me more: Canterbury, England-based Spygenius has released an ambitious and wide-ranging album of covers that is among the year's best. In addition to a medley of songs by Traffic and The Monkees ("Paper Sun" / "Love Is Only Sleeping"), a wealth of cuts penned and/or recorded by a slew of other classic rock and contemporary faves are featured on the 13-track set Spygenius Blow Their Covers. Among the terrific covers on the album is melodic reading of Gene Clark's "So You Say You Lost Your Baby," swirling version of Plasticsoul's "Therapy," Celtic-flavored "Griselda" and soaring run through Squeeze's "Is That Love." Late album standouts includes a snappy version of The Monkees' "For Pete's Sake," the power pop-fueled "Queen of Eyes" (a Robyn Hitchcock-penned gem), a wonderfully jazzy take on Paul McCartney's "Step Inside Love" (a song written in 1967 as the theme song of Cella Black's TV series "Cella") and magical cover of Buffalo Springfield's "Rock 'N' Roll Woman" bolstered by lush harmonies. Spygenius features the collective talents of frontman Peter Watts, bassist Ruth Rogers, keyboardist Matt Byrne and drummer Alan Cannings. Information: BigStirRecords.com.

Artist: James McMurtry

Title: The Horses and the Hounds (New West Records)

You might like if you enjoy: John Prine, John Mellencamp, Steve Earle, Warren Zevon

Tell me more: Released back in late August, James McMurtry's The Horses and the Hounds was the singer-songwriter's first new full-length album release in seven years. Filled with songs that are expertly crafted and mine the deepest reaches of the human experience, the mix of wonderful songs includes the lovely "Canola Fields," confessional Americana rocker "If It Don't Bleed," real world-anchored literate tales "Jackie" and "Decent Man," the searing title track (featuring some terrific fret work from guitar master David Grissom) and infectious rocker "What's the Matter." The Horses and the Hounds was worth the wait. Information: NewWestRecords.com.

Artist: The Poppermost

Title: Hits To Spare (TLAK)

You might like if you enjoy: The Beatles, Dave Clark Five

Tell me more: With renewed interest in The Beatles in the wake of Peter Jackson's outstanding "Get Back" docuseries and the band's own Let It Be deluxe reissue, why not check out The Poppermost's wonderful Hits To Spare. Glasgow, Scotland-based lead singer/multi-instrumentalist Joe Kane has magically captured the sound, songcraft and nuances of the early recordings of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr with bona fide detail. All 14 songs on Hits To Spare were written, performed and produced by Kane but sound like outtakes from the Fab Four's amazing Abbey Road sessions in the early 1960s. The rollicking "Egg & Chips" and "Yes It's True," reflective "Can't Take That Away," Lennonesque "Hits To Spare," joyful "In & Out," McCartney-flavored ballad "Get It Down" and luxurious "Ticket To Ride"-sourced "Park and Ride" are among the retro-styled jewels on the disc. Information: ThePoppermost.com.

Artists: The Armoires, Dolph Chaney, Sorrows, Anton Barbeau, Bill Lloyd, Lannie Flowers, more

Title: 2021 Retrospective (Big Stir Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Cheap Trick, Matthew Sweet, The Smithereens

Tell me more: A number of outstanding releases from Big Stir Records and Spyderpop Records were released in 2021. Now — as the year draws to a close — the two labels are looking back at the fruitful year with 2021 Retrospective, a 24-track sampler of the field of top-tier power pop-styled artists who issued new music over the past 12 months. The parade of tracks is strong across its marathon run; the Stan Laurels (the dreamy "Tomorrow"), Popular Creeps (the shimmering "Split Decision"), The Armoires (the tuneful "Great Distances"), Finland's The Bablers (the intoxicating "Psychadilly Circus"), Anton Barbeau (the 12-string adorned "One Of Her Super Powers"), Lannie Flowers (the chamber pop nugget "Home"), Sorrows (the driving "Christabelle") and The Speed Of Sound (enticing "Tomorrow's World") are among the diverse field of great artists whose appearance enhance the collection. Information: BigStirRecords.com.

Artist / Author: Paul McCartney

Title: The Lyrics

Publisher: Liverlight

Hardcover: 960 pages

You might like if you enjoy: Paul McCartney, The Beatles, classic rock

Tell me more: One of the most important and highly-anticipated books of 2021, Paul McCartney's "The Lyrics" is a two-volume work featuring lyrics of 154 of his songs spanning from the late 1950s to the present day. The earliest original revisited is "I Lost My Little Girl," a song he wrote in 1956 following the death of his 47-year-old mother. "The Lyrics" includes many of McCartney's most beloved and well-known works as well as rare gems; "I Saw Her Standing There," "I Wanna Be Your Man" (a song written for Beatles band mate Ringo Starr that also proved to be an early hit for The Rolling Stones), "When I'm Sixty-Four," "Yesterday," "The Long and Winding Road," "Band On The Run," "Only Mama Knows" and "Live and Let Die" are among the classics featured in these pages. In addition, there are more than 600 images from McCartney's personal archives — including handwritten lyrics, letters, photographs and memorabilia. There is a fantastic forward penned by McCartney that really provides a clear picture how the artist's life has been both chronicled and transformed by his songwriting. His first-person commentaries provide compelling insight into the creation of each of the songs. As McCartney notes, "What made The Beatles such a great band was that no two tracks are the same." What "The Lyrics" further proves is how amazing McCartney's songs are from throughout his long and singular career. Information: wwnorton.com or BarnesAndNoble.com.

Robert Kinsler

Ringo Starr's new hardcover book "Lifted: Fab Images and Memories in My Life With The Beatles from Across the Universe" on sale now at Julien's Auctions

Exciting news for fans of legendary singer-songwriter/drummer Ringo Starr and The Beatles...Robert Kinsler

Press Release For immediate release!

“LIFTED: FAB IMAGES AND MEMORIES IN MY LIFE WITH THE BEATLES FROM ACROSS THE UNIVERSE,” A REVELATORY PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY BACK TO THE FAB FOUR ERA INCLUDING STUNNING RARE AND NEWLY DISCOVERED IMAGES AND NEVER-BEFORE-TOLD TALES BY RINGO STARR VALENTINE’S DAY 2022 RELEASE ANNOUNCED

Limited-Edition Commemorative Hardcover Book and Exclusive Signed Editions by Ringo Starr Sold Exclusively Online in Time for the Holiday Season Beginning December 21st at Julien’s Auctions All Proceeds of Sales will Benefit The Lotus Foundation

VALENTINE’S DAY, 2022

Los Angeles, California – (December 21st, 2021) – In celebration of one of rock and roll’s most legendary drummers of all time and a beloved pop culture icon, the publishing division of Julien’s Auctions will release “LIFTED: FAB IMAGES AND MEMORIES OF MY LIFE WITH THE BEATLES FROM ACROSS THE UNIVERSE,” a new limited-edition retrospective hardcover by Ringo Starr. This remarkable tribute will include images, some of them rare, unseen and newly discovered images alongside Ringo Starr’s unique perspective on The Beatles phenomenon as he offers a modern, intimate and loving look at his illustrious and precious time as one of The Fab Four.

“LIFTED: FAB IMAGES AND MEMORIES IN MY LIFE WITH THE BEATLES FROM ACROSS THE UNIVERSE” will be available to the world on Valentine’s Day 2022 with pre-sale book orders for $59 beginning December 21st exclusively online at juliensauctions.com. Exclusive limited editions of the commemorative hardcover book with a special color cover of the Beatles signed by Ringo Starr and housed in a special designed slip case will also be available for $495 (photo right).

All proceeds of the book sales will benefit The Lotus Foundation whose mission funds supports, participates in and promotes charitable projects aimed at advancing social welfare in diverse areas including, but not limited to substance abuse, cerebral palsy, brain tumors, cancer, battered women and their children, homelessness, and animals in need.

While quarantining during lockdown and pausing from touring as frontman of Ringo Starr and the All Starr Band, Ringo took time in between recording his most recent EPs Zoom and Change The World to “lift” photographic images of the Beatles that he loves. These photos captured Ringo’s attention both from the internet, as well as other rare and unseen images from his personal collection that capture the Beatles in moments that struck a chord with him.

Ringo -- working in collaboration with best-selling author and award-winning TV writer-producer David Wild -- has now curated these compelling images from here, there and everywhere and used them as an exciting jumping off point to retrace Ringo’s time with the Beatles from his unique and compelling perspective. Gathered together for the first time, these images, thoughts and insights produce an entertaining account of remembrance and revelation about Beatles history, as told in Ringo's own words, and as a way to “get back” and give back for the former Beatle.

“These fantastic images came back to me in recent years from across the universe and have somehow helped me get back to seeing my life with The Fab Four through fresh eyes,” Ringo Starr explains of the origins and inspirations for the upcoming book. “A lot of the photos in this book I saw on my phone and on my computer and I lifted them because they brought back so many fabulous memories. In recent years, I’d gather these Beatles photos that I didn’t have and sometimes barely remembered. After a while, I thought, how great it would be that we can lift these fantastic photos for charity, tell my true tales about what we four went through and then make a great new book out of it. And the best thing is that it’s all for a good cause because the money is going to our Lotus Foundation.”

The release of the book coincides with interest of Beatlemania at an all-time high with the recent premiere of Peter Jackson’s acclaimed Get Back documentary series on Disney + that has been seen by millions of fans around the world who are rediscovering and for a new generation of fans who are discovering the magic, music and friendship of the greatest band in music history. The book’s vivid imagery captures the Beatles’ experiences in Ringo’s words of “having the eyes of the world upon us and smiling through all the madness.” Many of the stories and memories transported through time include: the first member to get the famous Beatles haircut; Ed Sullivan’s now iconic intro to the Beatles’ historic television performance on The Ed Sullivan Show; behind the tour tales including riding in one car, sharing hotel rooms and the Beatles’ strict rule on farting; the blame Ringo puts on “the boys” for turning him from a rock singer into a balladeer; his dislike of the Let it Be documentary and how Get Back got it right; the decisive moment in rock and roll history when Ringo said, “I do” to the Beatles playing up on the Apple rooftop and more.

“This photo (above) takes me back to those early days when tea was our first substance. The Beatles drank a lot of tea over the years. Later, we were drinking other stuff, smoking other stuff, and even dropping other stuff.” --Ringo Starr in an excerpt from Lifted. “With Lifted, Ringo is sharing his unique and insightful perspective on the greatest musical story ever told,” says David Wild, who first met Ringo more than 30 years ago when he profiled him for Rolling Stone. “Nobody plays like Ringo, and nobody tells a story like Ringo either, so it’s really thrilling to have him tell us all the story of the Beatles from his honest, heartfelt and often hilarious point of view.” Ringo Starr is the author of Postcards from the Boys, Octopus’s Garden, Photograph, Another Day In the Life, as well as books featuring his artwork, Painting Is My Madness and Painting Is My Madness Too and a chronicle of his All Starr Band’s 30 record-setting years, Ringo Rocks: 30 Years of the All Starrs, published by Julien’s Auctions. The auction house to the stars has broken world records with the sale of Beatles memorabilia including John Lennon’s acoustic guitar which sold for a record $2.4 million, Ringo Starr’s Ludwig drum kit which sold for a record $2.2 million, The Ludwig Beatles Ed Sullivan Show drumhead which sold for a record price of $2.1 million, and The Beatles White Album owned by Ringo Starr that sold for $790,000.

ABOUT JULIEN'S AUCTIONS

Julien’s Auctions is the world record-breaking auction house to the stars. Collaborating with the famous and the exclusive, Julien’s Auctions produces high profile auctions in the film, music, sports and art markets. Julien’s Auctions has received international recognition for its unique and innovative auction events, which attract thousands of collectors, investors, fans and enthusiasts from around the world. Julien’s Auctions specializes in sales of iconic artifacts and notable collections including Marilyn Monroe, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, Lady Gaga, Banksy, Cher, Michael Jackson, U2, Barbra Streisand, Les Paul, Neil Young, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Jimi Hendrix, Hugh Hefner and many more. In 2016, Julien’s Auctions received its second placement in the Guinness Book of World Records for the sale of the world’s most expensive dress ever sold at auction, The Marilyn Monroe “Happy Birthday Mr. President” dress which sold for $4.8 million. Julien’s Auctions achieved placement in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2009 for the sale of Michael Jackson’s white glove, which sold for $480,000 making it the most expensive glove ever sold at auction. In 2020, Julien’s Auctions received its third Guinness Book of World Record placement for the sale of Kurt Cobain’s “MTV Unplugged” 1959 Martin D-18E acousticelectric guitar, which sold for $6 million making it the world’s most expensive guitar ever sold at auction. Based in Los Angeles, Julien’s Auctions has a global presence bringing their auctions and exhibitions to targeted destinations worldwide including London, New York, Las Vegas, Japan and China. Live auctions are presented for bidders on-site and online via live streaming video and mobile technology. For more information on Julien's Auctions, go to www.juliensauctions.com. Connect with Julien's Auctions at https://www.facebook.com/JuliensAuctions or www.twitter.com/JuliensAuctions or www.instagram.com/juliens_auctions.

Last minute music gift guide: Neil Young, Trini Lopez, Nick Frater, Hasaan Ibn Ali

Don't let these late 2021 releases escape your notice. All are available now.

Artist: Neil Young & Crazy Horse

Title: Barn (Reprise Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Neil Young & Crazy Horse, Nils Lofgren, The War on Drugs

Tell me more: This has been a tough year to be sure with a burgeoning death toll from the pandemic, widespread crime, economic uncertainty and skyrocketing inflation among the challenges facing everyday Americans. One bright note was the glorious return of Neil Young & Crazy Horse via the stellar new album Barn. In summer 2021 singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Neil Young, guitarist Nils Lofgren, drummer Ralph Molina and bassist Billy Talbot gathered at a restored 19th century log barn to record over a few days; co-producer Niko Bolas set up an analog mobile recording truck adjacent to the barn and captured the magic with uncommon warmth via one of the year's best new albums.The 10-track collection of loose and inspired material includes the acoustic-flavored "Song Of The Seasons" (bolstered by some accordion work from Lofgren and sublime harmonies), the sweeping countrified rocker "Heading West," the autobiographical "Canerican" (Young's tale of leaving his native Canada for the U.S.), Americana-styled "They Might Be Lost," ferocious aptly-titled rocker "Human Race" and romantic "Thru The Years." Barn is available on vinyl, audio CD, cassette and digitally; there is also a deluxe edition that includes the LP, CD and Blu-ray film. Information: NeilYoungArchives.com.

Artist: Trini Lopez

Title: The Rare Reprise Singles (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, Trini Lopez

Tell me more: Early rock hero Trini Lopez enjoyed a long career highlighted by a string of recordings completed for Reprise Records during the 1960s. Now Omnivore Recordings has issued The Rare Reprise Singles, a 24-track collection of rare A- and B-sides recorded between 1962 and 1970.  One of Latin music's first major crossover stars, the talented singer-guitarist shines across the wide-ranging collection. The disc features sweet ballads ("Let It Be Known," "Pretty Little Girl"), mid tempo pop (the soaring "Made in Paris," "Mexican Medicine Man"), rock 'n' roll and pop ("A-me -RI-CA," "I've Lost My Love For You," "Up To Now," "Five O'Clock World") and even Christmas songs ("The Little Drummer Boy" and "Silent Night / "Let There Be Peace"). Sadly, Lopez died from COVID-19 complications in Palm Springs, CA in August 2020. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Nick Frater

Title: Earworms (Big Stir Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Raspberries, Matthew Sweet, Roger Joseph Manning Jr., Big Star

Tell me more: Nick Frater's new album Earworms is a exhilarating sonic trip five decades into the past; the Croydon, England-based singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist mines the sonic territory of 1970s melodic rock with aplomb and a master's touch. The wistful "It's All Rumours" is a tuneful blast bound together with a catchy rhythm, lush harmonies and great lead vocals.  That opening track is no fluke; subsequent originals spanning from the luxuriant "Buggin' Out" and Baroque sortie "What's With Your Heavy Heart? to the gorgeous "Desert Ships" and sweet-sounding "The Unbroken" are spectacular. While an initial listen will impress with the instantly-inviting melodious soundscape, closer and repeated listens cast a well-deserved spotlight on Frater's smart lyrics and sharp arrangements that further define the 10-song LP. Information: BigStirRecords.com.

Artist: Hasaan Ibn Ali

Title: Retrospect in Retirement of Delay: The Solo Recordings (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: John Coltrane, McCoy Tyner, Elmo Hope

Tell me more: This year has seen a slew of lost and previously-unreleased recordings from the likes of The Beatles, Colin Blunstone, Michael Nesmith and Steve Goodman released.  Add to that notable list Retrospect in Retirement of Delay: The Solo Recordings featuring jazz pianist-composer Hasaan Ibn Ali. The special two-disc, 21-track release is a dream come true for jazz lovers. The groundbreaking Philadelphia artist is primarily known for The Max Roach Trio Featuring the Legendary Hasaan released via Atlantic Records in 1965; sadly it was the only commercial recording featuring Ali's playing released during his short lifetime. Fortunately 2021 has seen Ali —  who passed away in 1980 — reintroduced to a wider audience via Metaphysics: The Lost Atlantic Album (released March 5, 2021) and equally compelling Retrospect in Retirement of Delay: The Solo Recordings (issued on Nov. 19, 2021). The story of how Retrospect in Retirement of Delay: The Solo Recordings came to be is a tale 55 years in the making. Produced by the team of Alan Sukoenig, Lewis Porter and Grammy winner Cheryl Pawelski, the collection features mastering by Grammy winner Michael Graves and a wonderful booklet with essays and previously-unseen photos that shed more light on this important release. Ali's piano playing is breathtaking across the two discs (he is heard on a mix of originals and standards). Retrospect in Retirement of Delay: The Solo Recordings is currently available on audio CD and Digital; the title is set for release via a four-LP vinyl version in 2022. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler

Classic Rock Gift Guide: Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles

Watch a new episode where Robert Kinsler and TJR discuss three new gift ideas. There are exciting new titles from Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones and The Beatles that would make fantastic gifts for the favorite music lover in your life. View the episode HERE.

ASIA 'THE OFFICIAL LIVE BOOTLEGS VOL 1.' released to kick off 40TH Anniversary Celebration

This year has continued to see a myriad of fantastic reissues and special releases. Now it's ASIA's turn to roll release one of the year's final highly-anticipated titles and it's a big one. The official media release follows...Robert Kinsler

The Official Live Bootlegs  Volume 1 Released to  kick off the  40th Anniversary Celebration. Multi-platinum selling English supergroup ASIA released its most ambitious collection to date:  a 10-CD boxset The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1 .  Issued through BMG Records on December 3rd., the expansive set chronicles five complete performances of the original line-up captured between 1982 and 2010.  There is also be a digital album (also called The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1) featuring a selection of 24 tracks taken from the full boxset.   Issued just prior to the band’s 40th Anniversary in 2022, the The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1 box set is helping to kick off a period of celebration for ASIA fans worldwide. “ASIA has always been a powerful live entity, and these recordings prove that,” says founding member and drummer Carl Palmer. “Rather than hear these shows with inferior pirate recordings, now the fans can enjoy them with good quality audio. It represents the full spectrum of our live history as a band.” Order it here: ASIA THE OFFICIAL LIVE BOOTLEGS VOL 1

ASIA: Geoff Downes (The Buggles, YES, keyboards), Steve Howe (YES, guitars), Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake & Palmer, drums) and John Wetton (King Crimson, UK, bass/vocals), took the world by storm with their eponymous debut album, globally the biggest-selling album of 1982, and the single Heat Of The Moment. The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1 celebrates the huge appeal of the concert tours that followed ASIA’s first two albums in 1982 and 1983. The success continued following ASIA’s 25th anniversary reunion in 2006 and three more highly acclaimed albums. The slipcase boxset features 5 x 2CD concerts from 1982 (Buffalo, NY, USA), 1983 (Worcester, MA, USA), 2007 (São Paulo, Brazil), 2008 (Tokyo, Japan) and 2010 (London, UK). “This historical collection represents some of our finest and most defining live moments,” says Geoff Downes, “from the very first ASIA tour in 1982 and the Alpha tour the following year through three of our many ‘Reunion’ shows. It was such a privilege to take ASIA’s music to these different continents and feel the warmth and support from fans all over the world. We hope this brings back great memories and inspires others to appreciate the music of ASIA”.  The sets for ASIA’s original 1980s tours featured only the band’s new music. For the ‘Reunion’ years tours, ASIA included heritage tracks from each of the band member’s pre-ASIA groups. The 2007 and 2008 concerts also feature the Wetton/Howe composition Ride Easy, a song omitted from the debut album that was issued as the B-side of Heat Of The Moment, and included in their later live repertoire as a thank you to their fans for their support over a quarter of a century. This the first time these recordings have been made officially available by ASIA and they are presented together in a superb collector’s edition boxset with original artwork by Roger Dean, who created all of ASIA’s album artwork.  About ASIA ASIA was a true ‘supergroup’ pooling the talents of Geoff Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and John Wetton, who had already amassed tens of millions of record sales with their collective bands of the 70s. Leaving behind their progressive roots, ASIA embraced the commercial FM rock sound that dominated US airwaves and took that, and the new MTV video channel, by storm.  The single Heat Of The Moment was a world-wide monster smash and their eponymous 1982 debut album spent an incredible 9 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard chart as ASIA became the biggest selling album of the year and world tour dates sold out. ASIA in concert in at The Coach House in November 2012. From left, Guitarist Steve Howe, singer-bassist John Wetton and drummer Carl Palmer. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz A second album, Alpha, was released in 1983. The four original members reconvened in 2006 for a world tour, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of that incredible success, and the album Phoenix followed. While the members were still heavily involved in other projects they came together again to record Omega in 2010 and XXX in 2012, both albums were acclaimed by their faithful fans and supported by more world tours. Steve Howe stepped back from ASIA to concentrate on his work with YES and was absent for 2014’s Gravitas. Following this tour came the news of John Wetton’s treatment for cancer, a fight he sadly lost in 2017. ASIA, The Official Live Bootlegs, Volume 1 is available as a 10CD boxset and Digital Album on 26th November 2021 through BMG Records.

About ASIA ASIA was a true ‘supergroup’ pooling the talents of Geoff Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and John Wetton, who had already amassed tens of millions of record sales with their collective bands of the 70s. Leaving behind their progressive roots, ASIA embraced the commercial FM rock sound that dominated US airwaves and took that, and the new MTV video channel, by storm.  The single Heat Of The Moment was a world-wide monster smash and their eponymous 1982 debut album spent an incredible 9 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard chart as ASIA became the biggest selling album of the year and world tour dates sold out. A second album, Alpha, was released in 1983. The four original members reconvened in 2006 for a world tour, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of that incredible success, and the album Phoenix followed. While the members were still heavily involved in other projects they came together again to record Omega in 2010 and XXX in 2012, both albums were acclaimed by their faithful fans and supported by more world tours. Steve Howe stepped back from ASIA to concentrate on his work with YES and was absent for 2014’s Gravitas. Following this tour came the news of John Wetton’s treatment for cancer, a fight he sadly lost in 2017. FOR ALL THINGS ASIA, please visit:  originalasia.com

'The Byrds: 1964--1967,' large-format 400--page book curated by three surviving founding members coming in February 2022!

A very exciting news item about a Byrds book coming in early 2022! Robert Kinsler

'The Byrds: 1964-1967'; large-format 400-page collectible tabletop book curated by the band's three surviving members, Roger McGuinn, Chris Hillman and David Crosby

Presales for the Super Deluxe Limited Edition — autographed by McGuinn, Hillman and Crosby —  are available exclusively at byrdsbook.com

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — When the Byrds released “Mr. Tambourine Man” in 1965, they introduced Bob Dylan’s songs to a new audience and launched a career that would make them among the most influential rock bands of all time. With their unmistakable harmonies and Roger McGuinn’s innovative12-string Rickenbacker guitar, the Byrds never stopped experimenting. They incorporated folk, country, and jazz influences into a fresh blend that helped define an era. “And not to be too shallow,” Tom Petty once wrote, “but they also were just the best-dressed band around. They had those great clothes and hairdos.”

 

Now the band’s three surviving founding members — Roger McGuinn, Chris Hillman, and David Crosby — have come together to present The Byrds: 1964-1967, a large-format tabletop book that offers a unique visual history of the group. Featuring more than 500 images from legendary photographers such as Henry Diltz, Barry Feinstein, Curt Gunther, Jim Marshall, Linda McCartney, Tom Gundelfinger O’Neal, and Guy Webster, the book also includes restored images from the Columbia Records archives and the personal archives of the band’s original manager. Accompanied by a running commentary of their memories of the group, the era, one another, and their late compatriots Gene Clark and Michael Clarke, this carefully crafted volume is a truly unique collector’s item for Byrds fans.

To be released in 2022, The Byrds: 1964-1967 will be published in four configurations: a Standard Version, a Deluxe Limited Edition, a Super Deluxe Limited Edition, and a Super Deluxe Limited Edition with Fine Art Print. While the future Deluxe Limited Edition will be signed, the Super Deluxe Limited Editions — which are available for presale now at byrdsbook.com — are the only configurations that will include the signatures of all three surviving founding members: McGuinn, Hillman, and Crosby. The Super Deluxe Limited Edition, which comes housed in a custom clamshell box, is limited to only 750 hand-signed and numbered copies, while the Super Deluxe Limited Edition with Fine Art Print is limited to only 75 copies and includes a choice of one of three exclusive 11x14-inch prints from photographers Henry Diltz, Barry Feinstein, and Jim Marshall. The Super Deluxe Limited Edition is available for presale now at $475, while the Super Deluxe Limited Edition with Fine Art Print is available for $1,700. Once these editions sell out, they will not be reprinted. 

The book caters to the collector’s market and is presented in a lavish 10.5 x 13-inch format. Featuring more than 500 images, many of them never previously published, the 400-page book will be custom printed in Italy on 200 gsm premium art paper and will feature the highest quality thread-sewn binding, luxurious quarter-bound casing, and a custom clamshell box for the Super Deluxe Limited Editions. 

This is the first in-depth visual book about the Byrds, who were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991, and the first collaborative book by the surviving founding members. It’s also the first time McGuinn, Hillman, and Crosby have all worked on a project together since recording new tracks for a retrospective box set in 1990. The title is published by BMG, which also recently published Chris Hillman’s critically-acclaimed memoir, Time Between: My Life as a Byrd, Burrito Brother & Beyond. BMG additionally represents David Crosby’s publishing and recording catalog, and produced the award-winning documentary David Crosby:Remember My Name.

The Super Deluxe Editions are exclusively available for presale now at www.byrdsbook.com

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

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

Book Title: The Beatles: Get Back

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

Publisher: Callaway Arts & Entertainment

Hardcover: 240 pages

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

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

Artist: Chris Church

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

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

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

 

Artist: Eric Clapton

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

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

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

Book Title: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back

Author: Miles A. Copeland III

Publisher: Jawbone Press

Softcover: 336 pages

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

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

Artist: Buck Owens & Susan Raye

Title: Together Again (Omnivore Recordings)

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

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

Author/Artist: Chris Jagger

Album Title: Mixing Up The Medicine (BMG Records)

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

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

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

HOLIDAY CLASSIC

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

Robert Kinsler