Articles by: Jimmy Nelson

Chicago, “Caroline” from ‘Chicago XXX’ (2006): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Caroline” from ‘Chicago XXX’ (2006): Saturdays in the Park

The Jason Scheff co-written “Caroline” seems to be making the same old mistakes, until a key figure from Chicago’s modern era arrives to save the day.

Chicago, “King of Might Have Been” from ‘Chicago XXX’ (2006): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “King of Might Have Been” from ‘Chicago XXX’ (2006): Saturdays in the Park

“King of Might Have Been” really wants to go somewhere, and Chicago once again tries with painful obviousness to get it there.

Chicago, “Feel” from ‘Chicago XXX’ (2006): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Feel” from ‘Chicago XXX’ (2006): Saturdays in the Park

Working with Rascal Flatts certainly wasn’t conventional. But at this point Chicago’s sails had been slack for more than a decade. They had nothing to lose.

Yes, “Dare to Know” from ‘The Quest’ (2021): YESterdays

Yes, “Dare to Know” from ‘The Quest’ (2021): YESterdays

The modern-era version of Yes has once again shown that they can do something pretty. Next time, guys, let’s dare to rock.

How Paul Butterfield Deftly Blended Blues and Psychedelia on ‘East-West’

How Paul Butterfield Deftly Blended Blues and Psychedelia on ‘East-West’

Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s ‘East-West’ was released 55 years ago this month, opening doors not just for the blues but all of rock.

How ‘London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions’ Gave Boomer Rockers a Chance to Pay Tribute

How ‘London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions’ Gave Boomer Rockers a Chance to Pay Tribute

Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, Steve Winwood and members of the Rolling Stones took part in ‘London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions,’ released 50 years ago this month.

Sonic Beat Records Continues to Boom

Sonic Beat Records Continues to Boom

Even if you haven’t heard of Sonic Beat Records, you’ve heard Sonic Beat Records.

How Neil Young’s ‘Le Noise’ Found Light in a World of Darkness

How Neil Young’s ‘Le Noise’ Found Light in a World of Darkness

Released 10 years ago today, the textured ‘Le Noise’ landed somewhere between Neil Young’s acoustic work and his more muscular full-band rock music.

Death Cab for Cutie, “Summer Skin” from ‘Plans’ (2005): One Track Mind

Death Cab for Cutie, “Summer Skin” from ‘Plans’ (2005): One Track Mind

Released 15 years ago today, Death Cab for Cutie’s meaningful and idiosyncratic “Summer Skin” seems to be about youth, but really it’s all about growing up.

How Yes Finally Saved ‘Drama’ From Unjust Obscurity

How Yes Finally Saved ‘Drama’ From Unjust Obscurity

Released 40 years ago this week, ‘Drama’ served as a bridge between Yes’ ’70s-era prog sound and the approachable prog-pop from the decade to follow.