John Wetton, Jonny Greenwood and Downes Braide Association headline the latest edition of Five for the Road, an occasional look at music that’s been in my car lately:
JOHN WETTON – AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE (ROCK/PROG): This box set is an absolute gem for fans of the late John Wetton, of King Crimson, UK and Asia fame. This comprehensive collection beautifully celebrates his incredible career and showcases his immense talent. An Extraordinary Life includes a carefully curated selection of albums, live recordings, and previously unreleased material, giving listeners a deep dive into Wetton’s musical journey. The remastering work is impeccable, allowing the music to shine in all its glory. Whether you’re listening to powerful anthems like “Heat of the Moment” or more intimate tracks like “Starless,” the sonic experience is captivating and immersive. Furthermore, the included booklet provides a wealth of information about the songs, their inspirations, and John Wetton’s career. As a fan, it’s truly satisfying to have all of Wetton’s key works in one place. An Extraordinary Life serves as a remarkable testament to his influential contributions to the rock music scene, while offering a compelling journey through his expansive discography.
SRT – VANGUARD OF GROOVE (R&B/JAZZ): A masterful fusion of talent, seamlessly blending John “J.R.” Robinson’s dynamic percussion, Mitch Towne’s powerful, soulful Hammond Organ sound, and Andrew Synowiec’s captivating guitar work. Vanguard of Groove takes listeners on a musical journey that’s both vibrant and contemplative, with a satisfying mix of soul, jazz, and funk. SRT’s synergy is evident in every track, showcasing their virtuosity while maintaining a deep sense of musicality. From the upbeat grooves to the introspective melodies, this LP is a testament to their artistry and collaborative prowess. If you only know John Robinson’s drumming from Steve Winwood or Michael Jackson, then you are only scratching the surface. Vanguard of Groove is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates top-tier musicianship and a genre-defying musical experience. Check out “Tal Shia” and “Liquid Office” to become a true believer.
DUDU TASSA AND JONNY GREENWOOD – JARAK QARIBACK (FUSION/WORLD): This collaborative album by Duda Tassa, an acclaimed Israeli artist, and Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead fame is a captivating musical journey that beautifully marries Tassa’s Middle Eastern influences with Greenwood’s experimental proclivities. The album’s fusion of traditional Arabic sounds and modern electronic elements creates a unique sonic landscape that is both mesmerizing and thought-provoking. The project was produced by Tassa and Greenwood and features soulful vocals, coupled with Greenwood’s intricate arrangements, resulting in a collection of tracks that is rich in emotion and atmosphere. The duo cast a small but diverse group of musicians and utilizes singers such as Safae Essafi on the song “Ahibak” to create an enchanting and melodic series of songs. The seamless blending of different cultural elements showcases the artists’ incredible ability to bridge gaps and create something truly extraordinary. This LP is a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration and artistic innovation, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking music that defies boundaries and embraces diversity. Check out “Djit Nishrab,” sung by Ahmed Doma; and “Lhla Yzid Ikhtar,” which features Dudu on vocals. Jarak Qaribak is a rewarding journey.
DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION – CELESTIAL SONGS (POP): A captivating musical journey that combines Geoff Downes’ rich synth work with Chris Braide’s emotive vocals. Downes Braide Association weaves intricate arrangements and thoughtful lyrics on Celestial Songs to create an immersive experience that transports listeners to a realm of sonic exploration. The tracks blend electronic elements with progressive rock sensibilities, resulting in a harmonious fusion that resonates on multiple levels. Each song seems to tell a unique story, painting a vivid picture through its melodies and harmonies. The result is a testament to the artistic synergy between Downes and Braide, offering a tapestry of sound that’s both intriguing and musically satisfying. Though not a prog album per se, these complex yet hook-rich songs, stellar players and timeless arrangements shows how the partnership between Geoff Downes and Chris Braide continues to grow with each subsequent release. Check out the “Keep On Moving” and “Clear Light,” if you don’t believe me.
PRECARIOUS TOWERS – TEN STORIES (JAZZ): Ten Stories is a mesmerizing jazz album that showcases the exceptional talent of an ensemble named after one of my favorite jazz releases of 2022 by Johannes Wallman. Together, Precarious Towers raises an already high bar with each band member swinging for the fences. Sherel Cassity’s alto saxophone leads with grace and soulful melodies, complemented by Mitchell Shiner’s vibes that add a unique texture to the music. (Cassity’s “Journeyer” is a great taste of the power of the group.) The album takes listeners on a journey through its ten beautifully crafted stories, each track offering a distinct mood and musical landscape. Whether it’s the introspective ballads or the lively, up-tempo pieces, Precarious Towers demonstrates a remarkable ability to captivate the listener’s emotions and imagination.
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