Spotlight

On the Genius (and Ubiquitousness) of Saxophonist David Sanborn

On the Genius (and Ubiquitousness) of Saxophonist David Sanborn

Often situated in a cloud of opaque neo-funk, the late David Sanborn’s talents could be understandably obscured. Yet, there’s no mistaking, or escaping, that tone.

The Beatles in Seattle 1964: Internet Archive

The Beatles in Seattle 1964: Internet Archive

The Internet Archive contains a treasure trove of audio for Beatles fans. On the 60th anniversary of Beatlemania, Mike Tiano takes a deep dive.

Eddie Van Halen's Disastrous Flirtation With the Cello: Steve Rosen Book Excerpt

Eddie Van Halen’s Disastrous Flirtation With the Cello: Steve Rosen Book Excerpt

An impatient teacher slapped Eddie Van Halen’s hand after a few bad notes, then looked at author Steve Rosen with a look that said, “What the f— did I just do?”

Dickey Betts' Star Rose as the Allman Brothers Band Grieved

Dickey Betts’ Star Rose as the Allman Brothers Band Grieved

I saw Dickey Betts during a unique era for the Allman Brothers Band: Duane Allman was gone but bassist Berry Oakley was still alive.

How the Bee Gees Overcame It All to Produce the Magical 'Odessa'

How the Bee Gees Overcame It All to Produce the Magical ‘Odessa’

The Bee Gees were in a precarious position 55 years ago when their only original double album was first released in the UK. They turned in a masterpiece.

How Eric Clapton's 'Me and Mr. Johnson' Made the Case for British Blues

How Eric Clapton’s ‘Me and Mr. Johnson’ Made the Case for British Blues

I thought I didn’t need another take on “Come On In My Kitchen.” Twenty years ago, Eric Clapton proved me wrong with ‘Me and Mr. Johnson.’

Ernesto Cervini's Turboprop, "When I Fall" (2024): Video premiere

Ernesto Cervini’s Turboprop, “When I Fall” (2024): Video premiere

Here is the video premiere of “When I Fall” from ‘A Canadian Songbook,’ the new album by Ernesto Cervini’s Turboprop.

Why Joe Jackson's Retro 'Body and Soul' Said So Much About His Future

Why Joe Jackson’s Retro ‘Body and Soul’ Said So Much About His Future

Released 40 years ago today, the daring ‘Body and Soul’ put to bed forever the idea that Joe Jackson was just another punk.

Luckless UK's Underrated 'Danger Money' Arrived Just as Prog Fell Apart

Luckless UK’s Underrated ‘Danger Money’ Arrived Just as Prog Fell Apart

Released 45 years ago this month, UK’s trio-led sophomore effort ‘Danger Money’ is past due for a reevaluation.

Why Aerosmith Finally Broke Through With 'Get Your Wings'

Why Aerosmith Finally Broke Through With ‘Get Your Wings’

Aerosmith’s debut may have sparked comparisons to the Rolling Stones, but ‘Get Your Wings’ arrived 50 years ago with a different approach.