Is ‘Brownout Presents Brown Sabbath Vol. II’ better than the original, one of 2014’s best rock albums?

Over just three verses and one hook-driven chorus, Yes’ “Wonderous Stories” demonstrates prog rock in its direct and most accessible form.

Despite the fact that “Parallels” is a solo contribution from the late Chris Squire, there is no doubt this is a Yes song.

Bob Seger’s ‘The Distance’ has a musical power which exceeds the lyrical heft of the far-more-popular ‘Night Moves,’ as heard on stand-out cuts like “Boomtown Blues.”

Despite some pre-session turmoil, “Turn of the Century” finds Yes focused, inspired and acting as one cohesive unit.

The biggest letdown with ‘Mixtape’ is that it’s an EP, rather than a long-anticipated album. Still, any new music by Living Colour is cause for celebration.

The meaning of “Going For the One” doesn’t matter, as Yes does more with this abstract gem than their contemporaries were striving for at the time.

Armando Perez discusses the new project by the Chicago-based funk band Esso Afrojam Funkbeat, and how the issues facing immigrants shape their work.

“Angel Don’t Cry” should have been the leadoff single from 1984’s ‘Isolation,’ showcasing Toto’s new lead singer.

The only downside on Chicago’s “Sing a Mean Tune Kid” is its abrupt ending. But I guess I shouldn’t be too greedy.