Preston Frazier’s Best of 2023 Rock and Pop list includes Steve Lukather, Yes, Derek Sherinian and Simon Phillips, and others:
STEVE LUKATHER – ‘BRIDGES’: I was chatting with Steve Lukather about his latest solo album when he said, “Look, I know what you are going to ask: If David Paich and Joseph Williams are both heavily involved with Bridges, why is this not a Toto album?” I laughed at his remark, explaining that wasn’t my question. Bridges sounds like a Steve Lukather album to me. Many Toto members, past to present, appear but Lukather’s stamp is unmistakable. Combining the directness of his earlier solo work and the melodic flair of Toto, “When I See You Again” represents the work of an iconic legacy artist not willing to rest on his laurels. “Burning Bridges,” written with Stan Lynch, Paich and Williams, is a bluesy falling shuffle with prominent Fender Rhodes and touches of organ and synth. Phillips returns on a song that would have been a good fit on any Lukather solo album. Despite the inclusion of Paich and Willaims on keyboards and vocals, the music sounds more like Los Lobotomys than it does Mindfields. It’s not Toto yet Lukather delivers some of his best music in years.
CIDNY BULLENS – ‘LITTLE PIECES’: Cidny Bullens’ new album is a musical gem that beautifully intertwines with the narrative from his autobiography, TransElectric: My Life as a Cosmic Rock Star. Little Pieces is a captivating journey filled with heartfelt lyrics and incredible melodies. “Healing the Break” is a poignant ballad that touches the soul with its heartfelt lyrics and emotional delivery. “The Gender Line,” also the name of Bullens’ short documentary, features Rodney Crowell. This standout track not only highlights Bullens’ musical talents but also delivers a powerful message about identity and self-acceptance. The title track offers another personal and moving musical experience. Cidny Bullens’ artistry shines brightly in this exceptional work.
TAALI – ‘TAALI’: Labeling these 13 tracks from Taali Billig (who goes by Taali) as eclectic is a disservice. Taali composed all the songs, produced them with Brian Bender, and handled the vocal and string arrangements. The result a sometimes mystifying yet often stunning collection of work, with songs that reflect introduction, isolation, and triumph. “Did We Die” sets the rollercoaster in motion, with a stark, chilling account of an honest confrontation with death. “Anywhere” takes on the leap into a new world with a nuanced and tender view. “Did We Survive” culminates the journey but hints at new ones. Taali, with her crack band, paints outside the lines, which makes this Best of 2023 Rock and Pop honorees so engaging and brilliant.
DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION – ‘CELESTIAL SONGS’: 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. Celestial Songs 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.
DUDU TASSA AND JONNY GREENWOOD – ‘JARAK QARIBACK’: 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. Jarak Qariback was produced by Tassa and Greenwood and features soulful vocals, coupled with Greenwood’s intricate arrangements. It’s 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. The Best of 2023 Rock and Pop honoree provides a rewarding journey.
RICKIE LEE JONES – ‘PIECES OF TREASURE’: One would think that Rickie Lee Jones could no longer stir strong emotions after almost 50 years. Instead, these jazz standards conjure the same feelings that I had when I first heard her self-titled debut in the late ’70s. Granted, Jones has released a few cover projects, some brilliant (1983’s A Girl and Her Volcano) and one godawful (1991’s flaccid David Was-produced Pop Pop). But Jones is an artist in the truest sense, and never one to ignore her muse. Reconnecting with producer Russ Titelman at New York’s Sear Sound, Jones is joined by a tight band including Rob Mounsey on piano, guitarists Russell Malone and Jon Herington, bassist David Wong and drummer Mark McLean. They provide subtle and textured support to Jones’ still unique and expressive voice. Along the way, each song is born again through Jones’ interpretation, while Titelman keeps the playing loose and breezy.
DEREK SHERINIAN AND SIMON PHILLIPS – ‘SHERINIAN/PHILLIPS LIVE’: A captivating and electrifying masterpiece that showcases the exceptional talents of Derek Sherinian on keyboards and Simon Phillips on drums, along with Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal on guitar, and Ric Fierabracci on bass. Sherinian/Phillips Live takes listeners on a thrilling musical journey filled with energy, skillful performances, and impeccable chemistry among the musicians. “The Vortex” kicks off the album with a bang, immediately grabbing your attention with its infectious melodies and mesmerizing keyboard solos by Derek Sherinian. Sherinian/Phillips Live reaches its peak with the epic and captivating “Aurora Australis.” Clocking in at over 11 minutes, this epic allows each musician to shine individually while maintaining a cohesive and dynamic sound.
THE REFUGEES – ‘CALIFORNIA’: Combining three stellar singer-songwriters and great classic rock songs is not a guarantee of success. Fortunately, Cidny Bullens, Deborah Holland, and Wendy Waldman know how to deliver tasty arrangements and stellar vocals. Their album-length tribute to the Golden State is a primarily acoustic affair produced by Waldman and Abraham Parker. The tender covers of classic California rock songs run the gambit from the expected (Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth”) to pleasantly surprising (Sly and the Family Stone’s “Stand”). The arrangements superbly match the Refugees’ vocal talents, as Holland and Waldman’s acoustic guitars and Bullens’ mandolin sparkle. In the end, California provides an excellent gateway to their solo and group catalogs.
ALEXIS EVANS – ‘YOURS TRULY’: Alexis Evans’s Best of 2023 Rock and Pop album is authentic and compelling neo-soul. The writer, producer and composer gathered an energized band to enliven his compact and vivid stories. Evans’ 2019 album, I’ve Come a Long Way, was a perfect sophomore effort. Yours Truly doesn’t attempt to reinvent his formula. That’s fine, as songs like “What Is This Feeling” and “Let Them Loose” are emotional, descriptive and fun. Add to this formula Evans’ powerfully soulful voice and Memphis-inspired guitar work, and you have one of the best albums of the year.
PROJEKT GEMINEYE – ‘WHAT LIES BEYOND’: Projekt Gemineye’s latest project is fully contained, not continuing the themes from the three prior releases. The brainchild of Mark Anthony K, What Lies Beyond takes a slight turn with a pile-driving series of epic songs. “Cyber-Wonderland” finds K with his guitars turned up to 11. He’s continued to hone his craft, with a bass guitar has an unmistakable treble feel which counters the snarling guitars. At more than 11 minutes, “I’m Free” is a fantastic roller coaster. The track develops with Billy Sherwood-like melodic bass and swirling drum paradiddles before the pace picks up, and Mark Anthony K steps forward with a towering lead guitar over a mountain of switching rhythms. The results stand among Projekt Gemineye’s best work. Look for the compact disc version of What Lies Beyond, so you can get the bonus track.
Best of 2023 Rock and Pop Honorable Mentions
PERCY HOWARD – ‘THE STARS AND THE WELL’: This California-based singer songwriter delivers a series of fascinating compositions with intriguing arrangements touching on rock, R&B and jazz. Special guests Vernon Reid and Matt Chamberlain add a little spice to Howard’s strong compositions and powerful vocals. They help create an album which you simply must seek out.
YES – ‘MIRROR TO THE SKY’: Yes has put in more than 55 years in music, but the band still progresses. What’s old is new again with nine strong songs, lively tempos and powerful lead vocals from Jon Davison. Mirror to the Sky is better than Yes fans deserve.
JANELLE MONAE – ‘THE AGE OF PLEASURE’: Streamlined yet artistic and funky. Janelle Monae delivers yet another must-own album.
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