William Shatner + Ritchie Blackmore, “The Thrill Is Gone” (2020): One Track Mind
William Shatner uses his unique speak/sing vocals with disturbingly dark effectiveness on this unexpected update of a B.B. King favorite.
Articles by: Preston Frazier
Chicago, “Runaround” from ‘Chicago 19’ (1988): Saturdays in the Park
One of five original compositions on ’19,’ “Runaround” proved they had pop/rock sensibilities but could still sound like Chicago.
David Garfield, “Sir Charles” from ‘Stretchin’ Outside the Box’ (2020): One Track Mind
The last thing jazz enthusiasts have any right to ask for is new music from the prolific David Garfield. But this single is just the musical medicine we need.
Yes, “Believe Again” from ‘Heaven and Earth’ (2014): YESterdays
The last Yes studio project to date has a lot going for it, yet fails to reach the heights expected of the world’s greatest progressive rock band.
Toto, “Taint Your World” from ‘Falling in Between’ (2006): Toto Tuesdays
Hard rocking songs from Toto are not uncommon, but “Taint You World” ups the game for a band with already high standards.
Trevor Rabin, Nir Felder, Judith Owen + Others: Five For the Road
Trevor Rabin, Nir Felder, Judith Owen are part of the latest edition of Five for the Road, an occasional look at music that’s been in my car lately.
Chicago, “Look Away” from ‘Chicago 19’ (1988): Saturdays in the Park
Producer Ron Nevison takes over for Bill Champlin’s “Look Away,” a faceless smash single from a forgettable Chicago album.
Yes, “Into the Storm” from ‘Fly From Here’ (2011): YESterdays
This melodically pulsating, accessible yet clearly progressive song incorporates the strength of each Yes man, but doesn’t try to recreate the past.
Yes, “Don’t Take No For an Answer” from ‘Fly From Here: Return Trip’ (2018): YESterdays
Yes included a completely new song when they returned to ‘Fly From Here’ in 2018, but I wouldn’t recommend buying it just for “Don’t Take No For an Answer.”
William Shatner and Canned Heat, “Let’s Work Together” (2020): One Track Mind
Canned Heat creates a swampy vibe again on “Let’s Work Together” while William Shatner does a competent sing-speak to create some good, joyous fun.
