Spotlight

Vinyl

Kait Dunton and trioKAIT, “The Lady In My Life” from Casual (2016): One Track Mind

“The Lady In My Life” is a tribute to the late Rod Temperton’s pop songcrafting genius and the flair Kait Dunton has for surprising, smart arrangements.

Vinyl

Leonard Cohen, Always Wise Beyond His Years, Nourished Both the Heart and Intellect

I returned to a 2009 live album, Leonard Cohen’s first newly recorded release since 2004’s ‘Dear Heather,’ during the first dark evening without him.

Toto, "Holyanna" from Isolation (1984): Toto Tuesdays

Toto, “Holyanna” from Isolation (1984): Toto Tuesdays

“Holyanna” is perhaps Toto’s second best “name” song – after “Rosanna,” of course.

The Beatles, "Getting Better" from Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967): Deep Beatles

The Beatles, “Getting Better” from Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967): Deep Beatles

The Beatles’ “Getting Better” illustrates John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s collaborative style, differing outlooks, and willingness to reveal personal truths.

Chicago, "Mother" from Chicago III (1971): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Mother” from Chicago III (1971): Saturdays in the Park

A highlight from Chicago’s most jazz-oriented album to date, “Mother” is a perfect example of the era’s political activism and musical eclecticism.

"That Thing You Do!' … When Less is More

“That Thing You Do!’ … When Less is More

Twenty years on, Mike Tiano recommends “Tom Hanks’ Extended Cut” of ‘That Thing You Do!’ – but only to hardcore fans.

Vinyl

David Dower, jazz pianist: Something Else! Interview

Struck by David Dower’s maturity and musicality, Sammy Stein tracked down this emerging new talent to find out more.

Yes, "Awaken" from Going For the One (1977): YESterdays

Yes, “Awaken” from Going For the One (1977): YESterdays

Up until recently, “Awaken” was at the bottom of my list when I thought of Yes’ so-called epic songs.

Chicago, "Happy 'Cause I'm Goin' Home" from Chicago III (1971): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Happy ‘Cause I’m Goin’ Home” from Chicago III (1971): Saturdays in the Park

I’ve long thought Peter Cetera was underrated as a bass player, and Chicago’s “Happy ‘Cause I’m Goin’ Home” illustrates the point.

Vinyl

Dan Ropek, author of Tragic Magic: The Life of Traffic’s Chris Wood: Something Else! Interview

Steve Elliott caught up with Dan Ropek, author of ‘Tragic Magic: The Life of Traffic’s Chris Wood,’ to discuss this often-overlooked figure in rock.