Articles by: Preston Frazier

Vinyl

Leslie Johnson, “Walk It Off” from #3 (2018): Something Else! Sneak Peek

If “Walk It Off” is any indication, the forthcoming ‘#3’ will be another feather in the Guatemalan-born, Texas-based Leslie Johnson’s cap.

Toto, "The Other Side" from Kingdom of Desire (1992): Toto Tuesdays

Toto, “The Other Side” from Kingdom of Desire (1992): Toto Tuesdays

On an album dominated by flinty rockers, “The Other Side” stands out as a classic Toto ballad. It may be Steve Lukather’s best vocal performance on ‘Kingdom of Desire.’

Jeff Coffey, "Got to Get Away" (2018): One Track Mind

Jeff Coffey, “Got to Get Away” (2018): One Track Mind

Jeff Coffey has exited Chicago, citing the group’s relentless touring schedule. Luckily, he seems to have no intention of resting on the beach.

Vinyl

Lance Lopez – Tell the Truth (2018)

A terrific addition to Lance Lopez’s catalog, ‘Tell the Truth’ boasts an assessable combination of excellent guitar playing, strong vocals and deft production.

Yes, "Lift Me Up" from Union (1991): YESterdays

Yes, “Lift Me Up” from Union (1991): YESterdays

Producer Trevor Rabin scales back some of the excesses from 1987’s ‘Big Generator,’ creating a Yes song with Chris Squire that boasts a socially relevant theme.

Zig Zag Power Trio, Aaron Comess, Sofia Trio + Others: Five for the Road

Zig Zag Power Trio, Aaron Comess, Sofia Trio + Others: Five for the Road

Zig Zag Power Trio, Aaron Comess and Sofia Trio are part of the latest edition of Five for the Road, an occasional look at music that’s been in my car lately.

Toto, "She Knows the Devil" from Kingdom of Desire (1992): Toto Tuesdays

Toto, “She Knows the Devil” from Kingdom of Desire (1992): Toto Tuesdays

“She Knows the Devil” seems to be meant as nothing more than good rock-funk fun. If that’s the case, this Toto song accomplished its mission.

Yes, "Masquerade" from Union (1991): YESterdays

Yes, “Masquerade” from Union (1991): YESterdays

While it’s good, Yes’ Steve Howe-played and -produced “Masquerade” seems like an unusual song to receive a Grammy nomination.

Linda and Richard Thompson, "The Great Valerio" (1974): One Track Mind

Linda and Richard Thompson, “The Great Valerio” (1974): One Track Mind

A classic song closing a classic, acclaimed album, Linda and Richard Thompson’s “The Great Valerio” still captivates, decades after its creation.

Vinyl

Mark Wade Trio – Moving Day (2018)

It becomes obvious throughout ‘Moving Day’ that the Mark Wade Trio has played together for a while, as there is an unmistakable telepathy.