Zakk Wylde’s “Sleeping Dogs” makes a good promise for ‘Book of Shadows II.’ Here’s hoping the rest of the album delivers on it.

Fortunato Isgro’s “Good Times Bad Times” borrows the best elements of the past, then tops them off with a contemporary delivery.

With a touch of Southern-fried soul, Joe Mandica’s “My Heart Belongs” is like a marvelous mating of Bill Lloyd with Bill Deal and the Rhondels.

Xander the Peace Pirates’ “Soul Sailing” combines the powerfully soulful vocals with expressive and road weary yet expressive slide guitar playing.

Dr. John’s funky Nola street dance anthem has rarely been covered with as much festive spirit as it has from New Orleans’ own Mardis Gras Indian funk collective Cha Wa.

A poignant paean to his son and daughter, Joe Mandica’s “I Just Can’t Wait” has been made complete with a newly released video featuring intimate images of family.

Perfectly placed instrumentation ties in with Chad Bradford’s rich and deep vocals on “Where My Heart Belongs,” like a cool cross between Joe South and Eddie Money.

Rather than repeating the Eagles country-rock sound, Glenn Frey’s solo career reverted to his Detroit roots, blending rock, pop and soul.

Tim Kuhl has spun off many video singles from his ‘1982’ album, and this one produced by Rich Ragsdale might be the the most visually vivid one of them all.

Phil Ochs would have – should have – turned 75 today. He’s needed more than ever in a world still on fire with wars and injustice and inequality.