Articles by: Nick DeRiso

Michael McDonald - This Christmas (2010): On Second Thought

Michael McDonald – This Christmas (2010): On Second Thought

Michael McDonald can come off as a guilty pleasure, principally because his voice was so often caught in a web of too-slick production. Not here.

Vinyl

Bob Marley, “Is This Love” from Uprising Live! (2014)

The picture is grainy, the sound far too tinny. Still, there’s no denying the magic going on as Bob Marley returns to “Is This Love.”

Vinyl

Lead Belly, “Been So Long [Bellevue Hospital Blues]” (2015): One Track Mind

A previously unheard song from blues legend Huddie “Lead Belly” Ledbetter finds him in an impish mood, even while losing a battle with ALS.

Vinyl

Peter Gabriel, “Why Don’t You Show Yourself” from Words With Gods (2014): One Track Mind

Peter Gabriel’s first new studio release in ages is a triumph of musical restraint, and a moment of layered narrative intrigue.

'Very Extremely Dangerous' (2014): Movies

‘Very Extremely Dangerous’ (2014): Movies

The new documentary ‘Very Extremely Dangerous,’ it’s clear, set out to uncover something redemptive in Jerry McGill. It’s not there.

Vinyl

Jeff Beck, “Big Block” from Live in Tokyo (2014): One Track Mind

The majesty of Jeff Beck at his best isn’t just his technical prowess. It’s how he charges through boundaries like a paper pre-game banner.

Vinyl

For Tony Levin, jazz-focused Levin Brothers presented ‘a fun challenge’

Tony Levin takes us to the genesis of this Scott Schorr co-produced effort, and talks about the possibility of future projects with Pete Levin.

Vinyl

Jack White, “Parallel” (2014): One Track Mind

If you’re riding with Jack White, you’d best buckle up. He’s going to take more sharp turns in one album than most artists dare in a career.

Vinyl

Wilco, “Blasting Fonda” from Alpha Mike Foxtrot (2014): One Track Mind

A newly released set of Wilco rarities gives us a chance to finally to live in a world were everyone has heard “Blasting Fonda.”

Vinyl

Steve Hunter – Tone Poems Live (2014)

There’s a comfort level on Steve Hunter’s rangy, intimate ‘Tone Poems Live’ that brings out the best of a truly great player.