Something Else!

Vinyl

Pat Martino + Jim Ridl, “The Phineas Trane” from Nexus (2015)

Pat Martino was moved to pick up the guitar again after hearing Jim Ridl, and that deep connection is thrown into high relief on this standout track.

Vinyl

Chris Stamey, “Universe-sized Arms” from Euphoria (2015): One Track Mind

“Universe-sized Arms” is a strange-bird of a song, so much like the earliest of Chris Stamey’s triumphs but also like something else entirely.

Vinyl

Jefferson Starship, “Find Your Way Back” from Modern Times (1981): One Track Mind

Released this week in 1981 as part of ‘Modern Times,’ “Find Your Way Back” represents the zenith of Jefferson Starship’s heavier-rocking period.

The Beatles, "Baby's In Black" from Beatles for Sale (1964): Deep Beatles

The Beatles, “Baby’s In Black” from Beatles for Sale (1964): Deep Beatles

“Baby’s in Black” signaled the Beatles’ rapidly growing interest in musical experimentation, even as it showcased the Lennon-McCartney bond.

Vinyl

Boz Scaggs + Bonnie Raitt, “Hell To Pay” from A Fool to Care (2015): One Track Mind

“Hell to Pay” doesn’t represent the rootsy Bonnie Raitt pushing Boz Scaggs into a new direction, so much as reminding him from whence he came.

Todd Rundgren, "Rise" from Global (2015): One Track Mind

Todd Rundgren, “Rise” from Global (2015): One Track Mind

The sweeping, deeply inspiring “Rise” keeps the synths, even as Todd Rundgren begins looking outward rather than inward.

Vinyl

William Shatner – Has Been (2004): On Second Thought

William Shatner’s bold, brilliant ‘Has Been’ rocks with a wild abandon. Even the ballads are forceful enough to bring a Vulcan to tears.

Vinyl

Beth Hart, “Might As Well Smile” from Better Than Home (2015): One Track Mind

“Might As Well Smile” explores a new kind of song for Beth Hart, part of a new kind of album – one framed by hope, rather than pain.

Vinyl

The Sonics – Here Are The Sonics!!! (1965): On Second Thought

To be played at “annoy the neighbors until they call the cops” volume, ‘Here Are The Sonics!!!’ contains the work of accidental geniuses.

Vinyl

Joey Calderazzo, “Mike’s Song” from Going Home (2015): One Track Mind

Joey Calderazzo’s “Mike’s Song” keeps his fallen leader Michael Brecker’s spirit alive and strong with nary a single note blown from a horn.