Archive for October, 2015

Vinyl

Andrew Barker – Barker Trio (2015)

The free-playing Barker Trio strikes wide contrasting moods, not allowing themselves to be limited by a limited number of instruments.

Queen, “Spread Your Wings” from News of the World (1977): One Track Mind

Queen, “Spread Your Wings” from News of the World (1977): One Track Mind

Queen once again showcased their ability to play tough hard rock as well as more anthemic material on ‘News of the World,’ released Oct. 28, 1977.

Fastway – ‘Trick or Treat’ Original Soundtrack (1986)

Fastway – ‘Trick or Treat’ Original Soundtrack (1986)

The campy Halloween film ‘Trick or Treat’ doesn’t hold up so well anymore. But Fastway’s original soundtrack? That’s another matter entirely.

One fiery moment saved ZZ Top’s Afterburner from ’80s caricature

One fiery moment saved ZZ Top’s Afterburner from ’80s caricature

Released on Oct. 28, 1985, ‘Afterburner’ risked becoming just another faceless piece of glossy MTV-era production – until Billy Gibbons stepped in.

Vinyl

Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes – Hearts of Stone (1978); Men Without Women: Live (2011)

They’re both closely associated with him. But Bruce Springsteen wasn’t the only connection between Southside Johnny and Little Steven Van Zandt.

Vinyl

The Lemon Clocks – Time to Fly (2015)

The Lemon Clocks’ ‘Time to Fly,’ released today, showcases a band that’s honestly as good as the fine folks they’ve been inspired by.

Yes, “Starship Trooper” from The Yes Album (1971): YESterdays

Yes, “Starship Trooper” from The Yes Album (1971): YESterdays

Yes’ first epic triumph arrives, as contributions by Jon Anderson, Steve Howe and Chris Squire are stitched together to make “Starship Trooper.”

Vinyl

As Gov’t Mule reached a turning point, By a Thread delivered

Gov’t Mule dug deeply for ‘By a Thread,’ released on Oct. 27, 2009, retaining all of their soul and grit even as they emerged with a new lineup.

Quadrophenia was more than the Who’s ‘other’ rock opera

Quadrophenia was more than the Who’s ‘other’ rock opera

Released on Oct. 26, 1973, ‘Quadrophenia’ has never quite escaped the shadow of ‘Tommy,’ despite the Who’s best efforts. Here’s why it should have.

Vinyl

The Ann Wilson Thing – #1 (2015)

As with the Heart legend’s musical heroes Led Zeppelin, Ann Wilson gets closest to the bone when exploring deep into her blues roots.