Something Else!

Vinyl

The Rides, “Virtual World” from Pierced Arrow (2016): Something Else! sneak peek

The ‘Pierced Arrow’ advance track “Virtual World” exemplifies everything that’s right about the Rides: a comfortable confidence that can only come from stellar musicians with nothing left to prove.

Vinyl

Jason Miles – To Grover With Love, Live In Japan (2016)

There’s no better way to demonstrate that Grover Washington, Jr. truly lives on than with some spirited, well-executed and earnest live performances heard on Jason Miles’ ‘To Grover With Love, Live In Japan’.

Vinyl

Esperanza Spalding – Emily’s D+Evolution (2016)

When a musician of Spalding’s caliber makes an “I don’t give a damn what the people think” kind of record, that’s exactly when the people need to pay the most attention.

Vinyl

Nick Finzer, jazz trombonist: Something Else! Interview

Nick Finzer joins Preston Frazier to discuss highlights from his musical journey, the sweeping influence of Duke Ellington, and what’s next.

Anthrax - 'For All Kings' (2016)

Anthrax – ‘For All Kings’ (2016)

‘For All Kings’ not only stands with my favorite Anthrax records – it’s easily the best complete metal album I’ve heard in several years.

Toto, "Rosanna" from Toto IV (1982): Toto Tuesdays

Toto, “Rosanna” from Toto IV (1982): Toto Tuesdays

Toto’s fourth album represented a major investment for Columbia Records after ‘Hydra’ and ‘Turn Back’ failed to reach the heights of the band’s debut.

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

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

The Beatles’ “Lovely Rita” provides a moment of levity to ‘Sgt. Pepper,’ distinguishing itself from other tracks through its raunchy subject matter and clunkier sound.

Vinyl

Ralph Alessi – Quiver (2016)

I just realized why Ralph Alessi became Fred Hersch’s trumpet player of choice: Alessi is Fred Hersch, rendered through brass instead of ivory.

Vinyl

Zakk Wylde, “Sleeping Dogs” from Book of Shadows II (2016): One Track Mind

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.

Vinyl

The Main Ingredient – Greatest Hits: The Encore Collection (2000): On Second Thought

If you’re looking to have your spine tingled and heart jingled, the Main Ingredient certainly fits the bill.