As the Yardbirds’ guitarists have changed, so has the band itself – perhaps, most famously, when Eric Clapton was succeeded by Jeff Beck.

“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.

Silent for more than two decades now, Booker T. and the MGs have lost another member since their most recent studio project.

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

Chad Bradford’s new song “A Day Before Tomorrow [A Day After Yesterday]” simply buzzes with hit-single ingredients.

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

“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.

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

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.

As sun-flecked as Ron Sexsmith’s melodies no doubt are, his lyrics often run the other way. “Can’t Get My Act Together,” however, feels brand new.