Articles by: Preston Frazier

Toto bassist Shem von Schroeck: Something Else! Interview

Toto bassist Shem von Schroeck: Something Else! Interview

A stalwart with Kenny Loggins and Don Felder, Shem von Schroeck has one lasting goal: He hopes to be Toto’s “last bass player.”

Yes, “Where Will You Be” from ‘Talk’ (1994): YESterdays

Yes, “Where Will You Be” from ‘Talk’ (1994): YESterdays

As with the earlier “Walls,” “Where Will You Be” holds an unusual place in the Yes canon – but in a much more positive way.

Yellowjackets, Randy Waldman, Marquis Hill + others: Five for the Road

Yellowjackets, Randy Waldman, Marquis Hill + others: Five for the Road

Yellowjackets, Randy Waldman and Marquis Hill are part of the latest edition of Five for the Road, an occasional look at music that’s been in my car lately.

Vinyl

Lucas Lee – ‘Lowered Expectations’ (2018)

Lucas Lee’s albums are as involving as instrumental rock can be. That’s a testament to his skills as a writer, arranger and musician.

Toto, “Just Can’t Get to You” from ‘Tambu’ (1995): Toto Tuesdays

Toto, “Just Can’t Get to You” from ‘Tambu’ (1995): Toto Tuesdays

“Just Can’t Get to You” didn’t break new ground, but it did show that Toto could still create a ballad worthy of inclusion on any previous album.

Yes, “Walls” from ‘Talk’ (1994): YESterdays

Yes, “Walls” from ‘Talk’ (1994): YESterdays

“Walls” is easily the most commercial song on Yes’ 1994 album ‘Talk,’ but that doesn’t make it a stand-out track.

Vinyl

Max Moran, jazz bassist: Something Else! Interview

Max Moran joins Preston Frazier to discuss his new studio project ‘Neospectric,’ the close-knit musical culture of New Orleans, and his favorite albums.

Toto, “Drag Him to the Roof” from ‘Tambu’ (1995): Toto Tuesdays

Toto, “Drag Him to the Roof” from ‘Tambu’ (1995): Toto Tuesdays

When I consider my Top 5 list of Toto songs, “Drag Him To The Roof” is usually included.

Yes, “State of Play” from Talk (1994): YESterdays

Yes, “State of Play” from Talk (1994): YESterdays

“State of Play” sounds as for away from the main sequence of Yes songs as they could get. That doesn’t mean it isn’t good.

Toto, “Time is the Enemy” from ‘Tambu’ (1995): Toto Tuesdays

Toto, “Time is the Enemy” from ‘Tambu’ (1995): Toto Tuesdays

“Time is the Enemy,” with an old-school vibe which hints at Steely Dan, is another deep cut which could use some dusting off by Toto.