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.

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

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

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

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.

B-Leaguers’ ‘Death of a Western Heart’ is crammed to the finish line with hooky punk-pop songs along the lines of the Buzzcocks, Undertones and Green Day.

Playing with nervy purpose is purpose enough for the new jazz supergroup of Haas, Dillon, Singleton an Vidacovich to get together and make a record.

“Long Distance Runaround” is stuffed with progressive elements from Jon Anderson, producer Eddy Offord and Yes, only adding to its stature in the canon.