Archive for March, 2016

Vinyl

Here’s Chippy – Life On Low (2016)

Mixing humor with intelligent observations, Chip Muellemann’s ‘Life On Low’ is an album where the script is just as stimulating as the music.

Vinyl

Did Emerson Lake and Palmer almost lose Keith Emerson to Yes?

“I got back to England, after a very successful tour – and my phone rings at 11:30 at night,” Keith Emerson remembered. “It was their then-manager Brian Lane.”

Vinyl

American Football, February 27, 2016: Shows I’ll Never Forget

If American Football takes another long hiatus, Mike Kinsella is prepared. “I’m going to keep these jeans,” he mused, “and wear them again!”

Manassas – Manassas (1972): Shadows in Stereo

Manassas – Manassas (1972): Shadows in Stereo

You have to wonder why Manassas went under so many people’s radar, especially with the gap left by the breakup of Crosby Stills Nash and Young in 1970.

Vinyl

Julian Lage – Arclight (2016)

Julian Lage’s ‘Arclight’ is Lage’s first serious foray into the electric guitar on a record, with a seriously powerful trio and delving further into modern jazz and other forms.

George Martin’s Lasting Contribution to the Beatles: Let Them Be

George Martin’s Lasting Contribution to the Beatles: Let Them Be

George Martin could have made the Beatles toe the company line. Instead, Mike Tiano argues, he inspired them to greatness by working as a musical and production collaborator.

Vinyl

The Secrets, “Feel Pretty Good” (2016): One Track Mind

Jumping with joyful energy, the Secrets’ “Feel Pretty Good” is honestly one of the best power pop workouts ever to be.

Vinyl

George Martin built his legend with the Beatles, then branched out

The records, those sounds – even in George Martin’s awful absence – will remain, forever.

Yes, “The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus)” from ‘Fragile’ (1971): YESterdays

Yes, “The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus)” from ‘Fragile’ (1971): YESterdays

“The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus),” from Yes’ 1971 album Fragile, is a fitting contribution from the late, great Chris Squire.

Vinyl

The Rides, “Virtual World” from Pierced Arrow (2016): Something Else! sneak peek

The ‘Pierced Arrow’ advance track “Virtual World” exemplifies everything that’s right about the Rides: a comfortable confidence that can only come from stellar musicians with nothing left to prove.