Spotlight

Jim Pembroke, of Wigwam (1946-2021): An Appreciation

Jim Pembroke, of Wigwam (1946-2021): An Appreciation

Jim Pembroke is lost, but thankfully not without a trace. Here’s an appreciation of this legend from the Finnish prog band Wigwam, written “in gratitude.”

Beth McKenna - 'Beyond Here' (2021): Something Else! video premiere

Beth McKenna – ‘Beyond Here’ (2021): Something Else! video premiere

Here is the premiere of the video to herald the release of saxophonist, composer and bandleader Beth McKenna’s new album ‘Beyond Here.’

How Julian Lennon Faced It All on 'Everything Changes'

How Julian Lennon Faced It All on ‘Everything Changes’

Released 10 years ago this week, Julian Lennon’s ‘Everything Changes’ emerged as the most assured release yet from an underrated pop melodist.

How Talk Talk's Brilliant 'Laughing Stock' Set the Stage for Radiohead

How Talk Talk’s Brilliant ‘Laughing Stock’ Set the Stage for Radiohead

For those who bought a copy 30 years ago this month, and there weren’t many, Talk Talk’s ‘Laughing Stock’ led the way into an as-yet-unformed genre. You’re welcome, Radiohead.

How Daryl Hall Reclaimed His Legacy With 'Laughing Down Crying'

How Daryl Hall Reclaimed His Legacy With ‘Laughing Down Crying’

Released 10 years ago today, ‘Laughing Down Crying’ found Daryl Hall rediscovering his pop muse, all on his own.

Steph Richards with Joshua White, "Zephyr" (2021): Something Else! video premiere

Steph Richards with Joshua White, “Zephyr” (2021): Something Else! video premiere

The highly individual trumpet of Steph Richards and the interesting twists heard on “Zephyr” set the pattern for the rest of the upcoming adventurous album of the same name.

MC5 - 'High Time' (1971): Shadows in Stereo

MC5 – ‘High Time’ (1971): Shadows in Stereo

Why is there no fanfare for the 50th anniversary of MC5’s ‘High Time’? As seems to be typical these days, I have no answer.

Remembering 9/11: John Adams - 'On the Transmigration of Souls' (2002)

Remembering 9/11: John Adams – ‘On the Transmigration of Souls’ (2002)

John Adams’ “On the Transmigration of Souls” is difficult, not just because it’s a classical operatic piece but because 9/11 still sparks so many feelings.

Every Copy of Rush's 'Roll the Bones' Reveals Something New

Every Copy of Rush’s ‘Roll the Bones’ Reveals Something New

Rush’s ‘Roll the Bones,’ released 30 years ago today, is better than most people think. I should know, as many times as I’ve bought it.

'Elegant People: A History of the Band Weather Report,' by Curt Bianchi: Books

‘Elegant People: A History of the Band Weather Report,’ by Curt Bianchi: Books

A depth of knowledge that comes from long-term research, and Curt Bianchi’s passion for the music of Weather Report, is evident on every page.