TC's Old & New Music Review

Turn, Turn, Turn...

2009-05-02T01:11:00.001-04:00

I'm sure most bloggers are up on the news of the day in the blogging world so I won't waste time using that for an excuse.

Anyhow the real reason I've decided to pull the plug on the blog now is not so much because of external sources as it is because of my personal situation these days. I've recently lost my job thanks to the ongoing collapse of the American auto industry and living in Michigan, probably the worst hit state in the union, it's a mess that I fear could go on for awhile.

With that in mind, as of now the request lines are closed kids. I need to concentate what energy I do have on trying to hold on to what I have......I'm sure no one's going to miss one little blog so I don't mean to make a big deal out of closing. I hope you'll understand. I've got other things right now I need to put my efforts towards. Losing a job is bad enough, I'd rather not lose everything else too......these are real rough times for a lot of folks.

Can't think of anything else to say so I'll just say take care and thanks for the correspondence.

THE DOMENIC TROIANO BAND / THE JOKE'S ON ME

2009-04-21T23:34:00.005-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Terry Brown
Engineer: Mike Jones
Assistant Engineer: Ed Stone
Recorded At: Sounds Interchange, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, January-February 1978
Cover Art: Yosh Inouye
TRACK LISTING:
The Joke's On Me
Maybe The Next Time
Spud
Here Before My Time
Eleanora Fagan
Road To Hell
War Zone
Look Up
THE PLAYERS:
Dave Tyson - Keyboards, Vocals
Jacek Sobotta - Keyboards
Keith Jones - Bass, Vocals
Paul DeLong - Drums
Domenic Troiano - Guitars, Vocals
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domenic_Troiano

http://www.geocities.com/domenic_troiano/
REVIEW:
By Yours Truly

Domenic isn't a talent that I followed closely thru the years, but that's not to say he isn't worthy of being followed. I first heard of him when he joined the James Gang after Joe Walsh left. At the time no one could fill Joe's shoes so I was suitably unimpressed but later on in the 70's when he put out the bulk of his solo work I changed my opinion considerably and this album had a lot of miles put on it during the late 70's early 80's.

There is a lot of stuff to like on this disc besides the excellent guitar work. All the musicians are top notch at their craft which makes the album enjoyable on a number of different levels. For me the overall feel of the album is Jazzy rock. The first side of the album consisted of normal length tunes. Side two consisted of 3 cuts, all longer and more improvisational and all somewhat tied together.

As seems to happen alot these days, when I did a web search for this entry to see what I could find out about Domenic the first thing I learned is that he passed on a couple years ago. It was good to find out though that he managed to keep his music career going until the end and that's something that means a lot to me these days.....

Give this one a listen and see what ya think. What can it hurt?

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

DAKOTA / DAKOTA

2009-03-29T02:29:00.005-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1980 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Danny Seraphine & David "Hawk" Wolinski for "Skidrow Productions"
Engineer: Nick Blagona
Assistant Engineer: Robby Whelan
Recorded At: Le Studio, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Mixed At: Kendun Recorders, Burbank, California
Mixed By: Paul Northfield, Danny Seraphine, David "Hawk" Wolinski & Steve Williams
Mastered At: Sterling Sound, New York, New York.
Cover Art: Jim Houghton, N. McDonald
TRACK LISTING:
If It Takes All Night
Crazy For Your Love
Possession
You Can't Live Without It
One Step
Lady
Restless
Crazy Love
It Gets Easier
THE PLAYERS:
Jerry Hludzik - Lead Vocals, Guitar
Bill Kelly - Lead Vocals, Guitar
Lou Cossa - Keyboards, Background Vocals
Jeff Mitchell - Keyboards, Background Vocals
Bill McHale - Bass, Background Vocals
John Robinson - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.itsaboutmusic.com/dakota.html
REVIEW:

By Yours Truly

This was an album in my collection that was a matter of bad timing for several reasons. First off, I was more interested in other things than slickly produced country rock in 1980 so I think I played this one once or twice and filed it. Secondly, I think the whole world was off on a different trip in 1980 so even a well played, well produced country rock record like this one found nobody that seemed to care.

I recently pulled this one out to see how much of it I could recall and was pleasantly surprised to find a very well done record. Back in 1980 I figured this was another one album band and never really did any research to find out differently, but nowadays with the net available I've found out that at least one of the members kept on truckin' to keep his musical dreams alive and I've got a big soft spot in my calloused old heart these days for someone who wouldn't give up on their dreams.

So what we have here is a very musical, well produced record that is full of great tunes and tasty hooks. I can't imagine anyone nowadays not finding something on here that would get their toes to tappin'. Although it didn't impress me that much in 1980 I find myself doing repeated listenings lately and wondering what the heck was wrong with my ears in 1980.

It's all a matter of timing folks and I'd be the first to admit that sometimes during my lifetime my timing has been off a step or two.......This one will be a great addition to any country rock collection........I recommend it!

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

STANKY BROWN GROUP / IF THE LIGHTS DON'T GET YOU, THE HEALOTS WILL

2009-03-28T18:59:00.003-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1977 on Sire Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Hank Medress & Dave Appell
Engineer: Billy Radice
Assistant Engineer: Michael Getlin
Recorded At: The Hit Factory, New York, New York.
Mixed By: Hank Medress, Dave Appell, Billy Radice
Mastered By: Bob Ludwig at Masterdisk, New York, New York
Cover Art: Moshe Brakha
TRACK LISTING:
Coal Town
Life Beyond
Woman, Don't Let It Slip Away
Confident Man
Faith In The Family
Alone Tonight
Good To Me
As A Lover, I'm A Loser
Stop In The Name Of Love
Free And Easy
All arrangements by James Brown and Stanky Brown
Strings and Horns Arranged By: Chris Dedrick
THE PLAYERS:
James Brown - Vocals, Keyboards
Jeffrey Leynor - Vocals, Guitars
Richard Bunkiewicz - Bass
Jerry Cordasco - Drums, Percussion
Alan J. Ross - Sax, Clarinet, Flute
Jimmy MIller - Guitar
Frank Greene - Lyrics
Guests:
Elliot Randall - Guitars
Jimmy Maelenk - Congas
Werner Fritzsching - Guitar
Background Vocals - David Lasley, Lynn PItney, Arnold McCuller
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.musicstack.com/records-cds/stanky+brown

http://www.myspace.com/thestankybrowngroup

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly

Way back last May I upped the first SBG release for your ears and since then there's been a steady trickle of folks curious to hear the band. So, with that in mind and long overdue, I've decided it was time for the next installment so here is the 2nd effort from this 70's New Jersey band.

There's not a whole lot I can say about this one I haven't already said about the first one.....it's a solid effort full of catchy tunes that are toe tappers. That's usually enough reason right there for me to give it a listen, hopefully that'll be enough for you too.

Seriously. if you've heard the first one and liked it then you'll like this one too....I think it's a tighter effort and more solid all around this time around. Give it a listen and see if your foot ain't tappin' too!

Tc
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

RICK ROBERTS / SHE IS A SONG

2009-03-27T23:09:00.001-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1973 on A&M Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Chris Hillman
Engineers: Bruce Hensal & Thom Caccetta
Recorded: Rocky Mountain Recorders, Boulder Colorado
Mixed By: Rick Pekkonen
Mixed At: Hollywood Sound Recorders, Hollywood, California
Cover Art: Hagiwara - Mcgowan
TRACK LISTING:
Westwind
She Is A Song
Lights
Four Days Gone
Company
Sweet Maria
The Captain
She Made Me Lose My Blues
Old Songs
Glad To Be Going
All songs written by Rick Roberts except "Four Days Gone by Steven Stills & She Made Me Lose My Blues by P. Siebel

THE PLAYERS:
Rick Roberts - Vocals, Guitars
Paul Harris - Keyboards
George Grantham - Drums
Al Perkins - Pedal Steel, Guitar
Kenny Passerelli - Bass
Joe Lala - Percussion
Joe Walsh - Slide Guitar
Chris Hillman - Bass
Joe Vitale - Drums, Flute
Rusty Young - Dobro
Steve Fromholz - Bass, Vocals
WEBSITE(S):
See Firefall and Flying Burrito Brothers for info on Rick. I could find nothing relating to just him as a solo artist and songwriter.

REVIEW:

By Yours Truly

I never was really much of a fan of the Flying Burrito Brothers at the time they were making music although I've remedied that problem since. I was a big fan of Firefall however and for me the centerpiece of that band, like the FBB was Rick Roberts. His voice and his songs were the focal point for me in both those bands.

I don't really recall how I came to find Ricks two solo albums, but I'm damn glad I did. Since 1972/73 his two solo albums have been an important part of my record collection. On She Is A Song, his second solo album he has written even more songs that have been a part of my daily existence since the first time I heard them. Westwind, Company & Old Songs to name a few are songs that I can play in my head anytime I feel the need to give myself a couple moments of peace. It's worth owning this record if for no other reason that the final cut, Glad To Be Going, It's an anthem for me and has been since the first time I heard it. After you listen to this record once or twice you'll probably wonder like I have for the last 35 years, why wasn't Rick Roberts a household name?

These days from what I've been able to find out, Rick is not in good health, however he is still with us for now. I wish there was a way to reach him and thank him for his beautiful songs before it's too late.
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

RICK ROBERTS / WINDMILLS

2009-03-26T00:12:00.004-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1972 on A&M Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: David Anderle, A Willow Production
Engineers: John Haeny, Richie Moore, Kent Nebergall
Recorded and Mixed At: Sunset Sound Studios, Los Angeles, California by David Anderle
Cover Art: Bob Jenkins
TRACK LISTING:
Deliver Me
Davy McVie
In My Own Small Way
Sail Away
Two Lovely Women
In A Dream
Drunk & Dirty
Pick Me Up On Your Way Down
Jenny's Blues
All songs written by Rick Roberts except "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down" written by Harlan Howard
THE PLAYERS:
Rick Roberts - Vocals, Guitars
Don Henley - Drums, Background Vocals
Bernie Leadon - Guitar, Banjo, Background Vocals
Randy Meisner - Bass
Jackson Browne - Background Vocals
Al Perkins - Pedal Steel, Guitar
Joe Lala - Percussion
Chris Hillman - Bass
Dallas Taylor - Drums
David Crosby - Harmony Vocals
Jane Getz - Keyboards, Harmony Vocals
Byron Berline - Fiddle
Lee Sklar - Bass
Mike Utley - Organ
Marc Benno - Guitar
WEBSITE(S):
See Firefall and Flying Burrito Brothers for info on Rick. I could find nothing relating to just him as a solo artist and songwriter.

REVIEW:
Forgotten Gems, September 17, 2008
By Nightspore - (Amazon Customer Review)

A worthwhile reissue of Rick Roberts' solo work, very much of its time but both albums are in my opinion very much underrated. For those more familiar with Roberts work with Firefall these songs may be an acquired taste, as there is a greater emphasis on country and folk here which is not so obvious in Roberts' later work. To Roberts' credit most of these songs work well, though there are definite standouts: Davy McVie, In A Dream, Deliver Me, and Sail Away all stand alongside Roberts best work with the Burritos and Firefall. Sail Away in particular improves with every listening, a song that is able to be epic and intimate all at once without overshooting the mark. It's a shame in a way there was not a live album released by Roberts at this time - it would have made an ideal companion to these forgotten gems.

=====================

By Yours Truly

I don't really recall how I came to find Ricks two solo albums, but I'm damn glad I did. Since 1972/73 his two solo albums have been an important part of my record collection. On Windmills, his first of two solo albums he has written some songs that have been a part of my daily existence since the first time I heard them. Deliver Me, Sail Away, In A Dream to name a few are songs that I can play in my head anytime I feel the need to give myself a couple moments of peace. It's worth owning this record if for no other reason that the final cut, Jenny's Blues. It's an absolutely beautiful song and after you listen to this record once or twice you'll probably wonder like I have for the last 35 years, why wasn't Rick Roberts a household name?

PACIFIC GAS & ELECTRIC / GET IT ON

2009-03-21T23:37:00.001-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1968 on Power Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Freddy DeMann & Frank Cook
Engineer: Bill Halverson & Bill Cooper
Recorded and Mixed At: Wally Heiders & American, Los Angeles
Cover Art: Ben Talbert
TRACK LISTING:
Wade In The Water
Cry, Cry, Cry
Motor City's Burning
The Hunter
Long Handled Shovel
Jelly, Jelly
Stormy Times
Live Love
THE PLAYERS:
Frank Cook - Drums
Brent Block - Bass
Tom Marshall - Rhythm Guitar
Glenn Schwartz - Lead Guitar
Charlie Allen - Vocals
Guests:
Joe Sample - Keyboards
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Gas_&_Electric_(band
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=6429958
http://www.pacific-gas-electric.com/
REVIEW:
Its about time!, May 17, 2008
By Nels D. Peterson "loud and stoopid" (Los Angeles) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I looked over a few battered copies of this recording on lp, and chose to wait for it on cd, after so many years, it finally is available! Since I truly enjoy this group, specifically "Guitar Glen" I must say I have held very high hopes for this, and it is even better than my expectations. I've listened through it once, can't comment on sound quality yet, but the music itself is very enjoyable, plenty of exquisite guitar work, and of course, the singing is top notch. Extra tracks have been used to fill up the cd, and I enjoyed each, even the alternate takes. Get this cd, no hesitation, it is timeless, you won't think it is "from 1968", it is simply very enjoyable quality music.

============================

By Your Truly

This is a classic album in my collection for me. It's the first album I ever bought with the world "Blues" on the cover. I don't recall what prompted me to buy it, probably the cover. I hadn't heard any of it before buying it but I sure wore it out once I got it home.

This is the album I used to teach myself how to play drums. Which would probably explain the less than pristene sound of the vinyl. I would play it over and over, playing along with it on my practice pads to learn all the fills and different rhythms and beats. I still play along with it to this day though nowadays I crank the stereo and play on my kit.

On the strength of this album and their live performances the band managed to secure a big contract with Columbia and put out 2 more good albums, but then things kinda fell apart, like so many bands do, and that was pretty much it for PG&E. I believe some of this stuff came out on CD eventually and if you can find it, it's worth owning, but I've yet to see a vinyl copy of this first album with this oringinal cover.

Way back in '68 this album made a big impression on me and expanded my musical horizons to a point that allowed me to be receptive to many other styles of music. A process that's still going on today.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

OUTLAWS / PLAYIN' TO WIN

2009-03-14T00:15:00.005-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Arista Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Robert John "Mutt" Lange
Engineer: Rodney Mills
Recorded and Mixed At: Studio One, Doraville, Georgia
Cover Art: John E. Barrett
TRACK LISTING:
Take It Anyway You Want It
Cry Some More
You Are The Show
You Can Have It
If Dreams Came True
A Real Good Feeling
Love At First Sight
Falling Rain
Dirty City
THE PLAYERS:
Billy Jones - Guitars, Vocals
Hughie Thomasson - Guitars, Pedal Steel, Vocals
Monte Yoho - Drums, Percussion
Harvey Dalton Arnold - Bass, Vocals
David Dix - Drums, Congas, Percussion
Freddie Salem - Guitars, Vocals
Guests:
Michael Duke - Keyboards
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Outlaws
http://www.outlawsmusic.com/
http://home.tampabay.rr.com/rootbound/outlaws/page1.htm
http://www.classicwebs.com/outlaws.htm
REVIEW:

By Yours Truly

To be simply blunt about it.....this is one of the best Southern rock and roll albums period. I've always been a big Outlaws fan since the very first time I heard their debut album. When this album was released back in '78 I was holding a ticket to see them live and seeing them live and performing most of the tunes on this album just heightened the already large amount of respect I had for their talents.

The first time I played this one I was in awe. Great guitar playing and great harmony vocals are two of the things I dig the most in a band and the Outlaws with this release pretty much set the standard for everyone else. A standard that still stands today as far as I'm concerned. While the whole album is a guitar lovers utopia, the first 3 cuts, particulary "Cry Some More" will leave ya gasping for breath. Both Hughie Thomasson and Billy Jones were monsters on stage with their respective instruments and proved to me that this album was not recording studio trickery. These boys were the real deal.

The only downside to this was that for me this album overshadowed everything they did after it. They continued to put out albums thru the 80's but I'd kinda lost interest. As time went on members came and went and they never put out another album that came close to this one. Hughie was in the process of putting a new band of Outlaws together again in 2007 when he suddenly died from a heart attack on a sunday afternoon. He followed Bily Jones and Frank O'keefe who both passed in 1995. In 2009 Henry Paul has returned to carry on the Outlaws name and this year they are touring and producing a new record.

In closing I'd have to say that if you can manage to sit still the whole way thru this album then I'd call EMS because you obviously are in need of serious medical attention!

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

LOVE / FOREVER CHANGES

2009-03-09T23:37:00.005-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1967on Elektra Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Arthur Lee & Bruce Botnick
Engineer: Bruce Botnick
Cover Art: Bob Pepper
TRACK LISTING:
Alone Again Or
A House Is Not A Motel
Andmoreagain
The Daily Planet
Old Man
The Red Telephone
Maybe The People Would Be The Times Or Between Clark And Hillsdale
Live And Let Live
The Good Humor Man, He Sees Everything Like This
Bummer In The Summer
You Set The Scene
*All songs written by Arthur Lee
THE PLAYERS:
Arthur Lee - Guitar, Vocals
John Echols - Guitar
Bryan MacLean - Guitar, Vocals
Ken Forssi - Bass
Michael Stuart - Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Love_(band)

http://love.torbenskott.dk/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forever_Changes

http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Studio/8690/love/love.html

REVIEW:

A very nice and melancholy bit of well-arranged psychedelic rock/pop, January 7, 2007
By Jeffrey J.Park (Massachusetts, USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

This was a random purchase I made as part of my exploration of psychedelic music released during the late 1960's. Happily, this turned out to be one of the nicer listening experiences I have had as of late and was generally impressed with the lush arrangements, acoustic textures, and melancholy mood. Although sounding partly like a product of its time (November 1967), this album is pretty sophisticated musically, with themes of paranoia and death commingling with at least a few cheerier themes. In spite of the fact that this record is largely unsung, it apparently influenced a few other musicians, as I can hear bits and pieces of this album on The Soft Parade (The Doors, 1969) and Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus (Spirit, 1970). The musicians on Forever Changes include bandleader Arthur Lee (vocals, acoustic and electric guitars); John Ecols (lead electric guitar); Bryan Maclean (rhythm guitar and vocals - lead vocal on Alone Again and Old Man); Ken Forssi (electric bass guitar); and Michael Stuart (drums and percussion). In addition to the key band members there is an additional bassist, guitarist, drummer, and a pianist along with string and brass ensembles. The string ensemble is used a lot throughout and very effectively. I guess it's worth noting that the liner notes indicate that Arthur felt that the band did not possess the technical ability of a Cream or a Jimi Hendrix Experience and channeled his efforts into arrangement. As such, Forever Changes features layers and layers of instruments, excellent orchestration, rich vocal harmonies, nice melodies, acoustic textures, great production, and gloomy atmospheres. As a progressive rock fan I certainly appreciate virtuosity but appreciate good arrangements a whole lot more - I really enjoyed this album a lot in fact. The eleven pieces (2'20" - 6'49") largely consist of strummed acoustic guitars and the occasional electric guitar solo atop a solid foundation of electric bass and drums. Skillfully woven into the overall "psychedelic rock sound" are trumpet and string parts that range from classical to big band (just like Chicago used their brass section, although Herb Alpert's Tijuana Brass sound does creep in there too). The trumpets really add a distinctive touch, while the strings make an unavoidable Beatles connection. Although I have described this music as melancholy and gloomy, there are occasionally bouncy and cheery sections that provide a nice balance. Rhino did a great job remastering this album and there are extensive liner notes and photos of the band. The bonus tracks do not add too much, although they certainly are of historical value to fans of the band. This is a great album that should prove to be of interest to those folks that like the proto-progressive British bands such as The Moody Blues (In Search of the Lost Chord, 1968) and Procul Harum (A Salty Dog, 1969) along with other American west coast psychedelic acts like Jefferson Airplane (After Bathing at Baxter's, 1967), Spirit (Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus, 1970) and The Doors (Waiting for the Sun, 1968). I can honestly say that as a huge progressive rock fan who is exploring the psychedelic roots of the genre, this is a great album and is definitely worth adding to the psychedelic/progressive rock collection.

=======================================

By Yours Truly

I never really understood why I liked this album so much back in it's day, but I did. It was quite unique and progressive for late 1967 and the songs lent themselves to me singing along, but other than those superficial things there was something there under the surface which has left an impression on me that has lasted over 40 years now.

If you're a collector of music from the late 60's and the whole woodstock era then this album needs to be in your collection for it to be anywhere near complete.
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

THE NOVA LOCAL / NOVA 1

2009-03-05T23:27:00.002-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1968 on Decca Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Elliot Mazer
Recorded At: N.A.
Engineers: Fred Catero, Glen Kolotkin
Cover Art: Hal Buksbaum
TRACK LISTING:
$5 A Ticket
If You Only Had The Time
Yascha Knew Deli Intimately
A Visit From It, The King
Tobacco Road
Hitch Hike
Morning Dew
Forgotten Man
Dear Jimi
And I Remember
John Knight's Body
All arrangements by Nova Local
THE PLAYERS:
Randy Winburn - Rhythm Guitar
Joe Mendyk - Lead Guitar
Cam Schinhan - Keyboards
Jim Opton - Bass
Bill LeVasseur - Drums
Phil Lambeth - Guitar
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Nova_Local
http://www.bkserv.net/GRR/SongPage.aspx?Song=Games-TheNovaLocal
http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=11:9hpsa9igb230~T1

REVIEW:

Amazon Review
An extremely underrated album which originally appeared on Decca in the U.S. in 1967. The band were students at the university of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. There break came when they opened for Chad & Jeremy at a campus charity concert. Nova 1 is classic late 60s light-psych with excellent vocals and harmonies, lots of organ and lots of fuzz guitar.

================================

By yours truly

This is another one of those albums if you heard for the first time today you might say, So What? but back in 1968 it was an awesome record and one that I still enjoy playing today. The first I heard of this album was on late night underground radio when one of the DJ's would play Tobacco Road every night. I was so impressed at the time with their version of this tired old song that I searched and searched until I found a copy of the album to make mine. To this day Nova Local's version of Tobacco Road is probably my favorite out of all the versions I've heard over the years.

Along with Tobacco Road they also do above average covers of Hitch Hike and Mountain Dew. The rest of the album consists of original tunes which are quite good also.

This is a classic piece of Psychedelica from the late 60's, a time that produced a lot of unique and timeless music. If you're a fan of that era then this album needs to be part of your collection. It's rife with great Hammond B-3 organ and above average vocals and harmonies.

Unfortunately they only put out this one Lp before breaking up and going their seperate ways.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

THE COOPER BROTHERS / THE COOPER BROTHERS

2009-03-02T00:52:00.004-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Capricorn Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Gary Cape & Richard Cooper
Recorded At: Sounds Interchange, Toronto Canada
Engineers: Mike Jones & Doug Neil
Cover Art: Bob Hickson
TRACK LISTING:
Rock And Roll Cowboys
The Dream Never Dies
Melody's In My Mind
Old Angel Midnight
Life Names The Tune, We Dance
Away From You
Portrait
Crazy Sundays
All songs written by Richard Cooper
THE PLAYERS:
Brian Cooper - Vocals, Bass
Richard Cooper - Vocals, Guitars
Terry King - Vocals, Steel Guitar
Don Bregg - Vocals
Al Serwa - Keyboards
Glen Bell - Drums, Percussion, Background Vocals
Darryl Alguire - Harmony Vocals, Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.thecooperbrothers.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Cooper_Brothers
REVIEW:
Beautiful Harmonies from an underrated Band, November 14, 2006
By D. R. Saxton "Dartanyon" (Bemus Pt. N.Y. USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

The COOPER BROTHERS were an underrated band from the late 70's. They mixed their country-rock influences with some jazz beats and a bit of the blues. But, what really drove their over-all sound was the beautiful and full harmonies. Songs like "SHOW SOME EMOTION" display BEACH BOY level blends mixed with a rock ballad beat. "Know When I See Her" was a small hit in 1979 here in the U.S. which also shows-off nice vocals with a solid "horn line" backed through-out the song. Being a Canadian band, I'm positive that their popularity was far greater in the homeland than here in the U.S. If you like groups like the MARSHALL TUCKER BAND, the ATLANTA RHYTHM SECTION, or the OUTLAWS, you will most likely enjoy the COOPER BROTHERS. They demonstated great musicianship and versatile songs. But, once again, the harmonies set them apart from the previously mentioned bands.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

ROCKIN' JIMMY AND THE BROTHERS OF THE NIGHT

2009-03-01T01:55:00.004-05:00

Alright folks, here we have a band From Tulsa OK., making Oklahoma style music before it was the mecca that it is today. These guys laid the groundwork for today's bands, like Cross Canadian Ragweed and many others. Up until about a year ago I hadn't heard of Rockin' Jimmy (Byfield). A friend in Germany that I share music back and forth with turned me onto these albums and I've been meaning to carry on the sharing for awhile now. Unfortunately I don't know a heckuva lot about Jimmy or his band so I thought the best thing to do in this instance is publish this info that I received with the albums. However I can say that if you like a laid-back groove with a bunch of tasty guitar work then there'd be a good chance that you'd dig this one as much as I do, if not more.......

=================================

ROCKIN' JIMMY and the BROTHERS of the NIGHT Tulsa bar band which had deserved cult following. Oklahoma is home base for J. J. Cale, Elvin Bishop, Leon Russell; Eric Clapton recruited sidemen there incl. Jamie Oldaker on drums, covered 'Little Rachel' by Jimmy Byfield (b 7 Feb. '49, Tulsa) on There's One In Every Crowd '74, had top 30 USA hit 'Tulsa Time' '80. Ex-Joe Cocker roadie Peter Nicholls from UK was engineer for Russell's Shelter label, formed Pilgrim label in Tulsa, recorded local acts: Tulsa clique turned out two-disc sampler unreleased commercially, edited to single LP The Tulsa Sampler '77 (incl. track by Guava, band fronted by Byfield); another sampler The Green Album '78 incl. 'Little Rachel', others by Jim Byfield and His Band; then By The Light Of The Moon '81 was by Rockin' Jimmy and the Brothers of the Night: Byfield on vocals, Steve Hickerson on guitar, Chuck DeWalt on drums, Gary Gilmore on bass, Walt Richmond on keyboards, backing singers Jim Sweney and Debbie Campbell, electronic 'horns' on some tracks, subtle and appropriate. Gilmore had played with Cale, Taj Mahal; Richmond with Bonnie Raitt, Rick Danko, others; Campbell (from Fort Worth TX) was lead singer with LA group Buckwheat, toured with Raitt. Gilmore was replaced by Gary Cundiff on second album Rockin' Jimmy And The Brothers Of The Night '82 (quintet only): it should have been called Rockin' All Night after the first track. All songs (except Ray Charles cover 'Leave My Woman Alone' on the first LP) written or co-written by Byfield, co-writers incl. Nicholls, on second LP Hickerson, Richmond, Cundiff. Distribution problems of all small labels prevailed; Byfield, a family man, did not want to tour widely; the band was soon history but the LPs lived for a while on Sonet in UK: fine songs, Byfield's soulful tenor, rhythm section rooted in R&B (laid-back yet tense) made music with space, time, loneliness, roadhouse optimism in it, proving that there's nothing wrong with rock no matter what's on the radio. Fans treasure the LPs, feel a shock of recognition upon meeting one another, and wonder how many more good bands there were out there not recording at all. The band also played on Sweney's Didn't I Blow Your Mind? '79 on Pilgrim, Campbell's Two Hearts c'82 on Tulsa's Churchill label.

REVIEW from:

http://www.donaldclarkemusicbox.com/encyclopedia/detail.php?s=2920
========================================
Stevey Hay & the RayVons (MySpace blog)Sunday, October 15, 2006
Rockin' Jimmy & the Brothers Of The Night...
So I switch on the Paul Jones R&B show on Radio 2 and he's talking about Rockin' Jimmy...seems he's played a track and people want to know where they can get a copy, only nothing's been re-issued on CD since the original album came out...
Two albums, actually, issued in Europe around 1982/83 on Sonet Records of Sweden . Still got them, stored away in an attic. Last heard some of the tracks when I used them on compilations I was making up (legitimately, you understand...working as music director for a 'background music' company...) to lease to a chain of American Diner styled Cafe Bars in the mid 1990s.
Rockin' Jimmy, aka Jim Byfield of Tulsa, Oklahoma, is part of the Tulsa music mafia that launched JJ Cale, Leon Russell, bassist Carl Radle, drummers Jamie Oldaker & Jimmy Karstein, organist Dick Sims, guitarist Jesse Ed Davis, and a bunch of other musicians and sidemen that starred, backed or sessioned on a huge number of critically acclaimed albums & tours of the 1970s, propagating their own laid-back but hugely influential jazz/soul/funk/country groove in the process. Eric Clapton built the other half of his career on their sound, and the mid-1990 success of country rockers The Tractors was probably their last visible manifestation outside Oklahoma.
I first heard of Rockin' Jimmy on the great Alexis Korner's Sunday evening radio show on the BBC. Intrigued, I tracked down the record...and then went to see the band when they emerged on an impossibly rare excursion outside Tulsa, at the legendary Dingwall's Dancehall in Camden Lock.
Dingwall's was virtually my local at that time - a sticky-floored late night London music biz hangout infested with musicians, management, agents, journos, low and mid-level record co execs, and over-excited civilians, in an endless melee of showcases, launches, and appearances for (generally) roots oriented bands of the moment. Times being what they were, we were inclined to get a little excitable ourselves.
Some time late in the night's proceedings, the by-now long anticipated Rockin' Jimmy, & his Brothers Of The Night, emerged from the phone boothed sized dressing room behind the stage, ambled in a laid-back manner to their positions...and sat down. A singularly un-starry looking bunch, even by the determinedly mundane standards made de rigeur by London's pub rocking scene of a year or two previous, the band had now rendered themselves entirely invisible to all but the first three rows crushed against the low stage.
They were great. Every once in a while, at a moment of high drama, the guitar totin' Rockin' Jimmy would stand up and shimmy about the stage, looking like an avuncular bank manager after a sherry too many at a family party. The rest of the band sat tight, visible briefly as audience members ebbed and jostled in front of the bandstand. Their feel was immaculate - making every tune a miracle of compressed energy and expression, wrapped up in a deceptively lazy delivery that sounded so easy, relaxed and economical that you didn't notice the complexity of the elements that went went into making it sound simple. Entranced, I found myself standing next to Alexis Korner, beaming on the edge of the dance floor, accepting handshakes and congratulations on 'his' band.
Rockin' Jimmy never came back to London, as far as I know. Tonight's the first time I've heard him mentioned on the radio in years. But most every time I'm playing bass in a band, I'm thinking about the groove, and how to place each note in the sweet spot, and make the music get up and shimmy like Rockin' Jimmy and his band did, that night in Dingwalls.

BY THE LIGHT OF THE MOON (Released 1981)

TRACK LISTING:
Stand Back!
Slow Pace
Little Rachel
Crazy
The Wind At Your Back
Can't Jive Enough
Ragin' Storm
Leave My Woman Alone
Why Ya Doin' What You Do
Another Chance
Ride It Easy
Call On Me
THE BAND:
Jimmy Byfield - Guitars, Vocals
Stever Hickerson - Guitar
Chuck Dewalt - Drums
Gary Gilmore - Bass
Walt Richmond - Keyboards
CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

ROCKIN' JIMMY AND THE BROTHERS OF THE NIGHT

(Released in 1982)

TRACK LISTING:
Rockin' All Night
You Got It Made
Sugar Babe
The Beat Of My Heart
I Was Wrong
Right On Time
Angel Eyes
It's A Mystery
Mood Music
We Got Love
You Got Me (And I Got You)
THE BAND:
Jimmy Byfield - Guitars, Vocals
Steve Hickerson - Guitar
Chuck Dewalt - Drums
Gary Cundiff - Bass
Walt Richmond - Keyboards
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

JIMMIE SPHEERIS / ISLE OF VIEW

2009-02-28T00:07:00.002-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1972 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Paul Leka
Recorded At: Columbia Studios, New York, New York & Columbia Studios, Los Angeles, California
Engineers: Tim Geelan, Stan Tonkel, Phil Cross, Jack Ashkinazy
Cover Art: Monte Luna
TRACK LISTING:
The Nest
For Roach
Monte Luna
Seeds Of Spring
I Am The Mercury
Long Way Down
Let It Flow
Seven Virgins
Come Back
Esmaria
THE PLAYERS:
Jimmie Spheeris - Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards
Geoff Levin - Guitar
David Campbell - Viola, Violin
Lee Calvin Nicoli - Flute, Bass, Guitar, Background Vocals
David Harowitz - Keyboards
Emil Latimer - Conga
Buddy Salzman - Drums
Strings arranged and conducted by: David Campbell
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.jimmiespheeris.com/index.html
http://www.futuresantiques.com/2003/05/jimmy_spheeris.php
http://www.futuresantiques.com/2003/05/jimmy_spheeris_1.php

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly

Another classic album from 1972. This one however has little to nothing to do with Bloodrock's Passage lp, other than the fact their both wonderful pieces of originality from a time that is long gone, along with the optimism that that generation was trying to maintain by '72.

I'm painfully aware the longer that I do this blog and search for info that hearing this music for the first time in today's world is an entirely different experience than hearing it when it was new and fresh and not tainted with the cynisism of the younger generation of today. This album was released before anybody knew what Gay Pride was, or AID's, or cell phones, or personal computers.....it almost doesn't seem possible to me but it is......

I remember a girl friend at the time giving me this album. It certainly set the mood for a nice, quiet romantic evening, but there's more here than candles and incense. Jimmie's lyrics were poetry and the music on this album is rife with beautiful melodies and orchestration.

This record is a one of a kind effort. Jimmie produced 4 albums that I know of and although they were all listenable the first one was never surpassed. Jimmie's life was cut short on July 4th 1984 while riding his bike he was hit and killed by a drunken driver. Some of us get our earthly work done quicker than others I suppose......still, it'd been nice to hear more from him.

==========================

A rare treasure, July 13, 2002
By Andy Agree "jackrabbit79" (Omaha, NE) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I am sad but not surprised to see that on this date there are only seven copies of this CD available on Amazon and that they are selling for $136. Yes, Jimmie's works were finally made available on CD a few years ago, but now due to legal complications they are no longer being issued. I encourage you to check out the "Jimmie Spheeris Online Forum" for lots of information about this artist and funding efforts to get his music newly re-released. If you have $136 to spend, I encourage you to get the CD if you want, but also contribute an equal amount to this fund to help make this special and important music available to everyone at a normal price.
I assume that you are already familiar with this music or you would not be scanning reviews for an obscure 1971 album selling for $136, so there is no need for description. You love it, so do I, but you might be interested in my own personal "Jimmie story", to add the stories listed here. I was first introduced to Jimmie, and this album in particular, in the mid-70s, living in a large "group house" in Palo Alto, CA when I was 21. It was a house favorite and "spun" many times during the year I lived there, but I never heard or even heard of Jimmie again, until this spring. While shopping at the legendary "Plan 9" music store in Richmond, VA, I found an old vinyl copy for $1. It was a "wait a minute, I KNOW this!" moment, and I have been enjoying it ever since. There is some "crackling fire" in the old grooves, but I consider myself extremely lucky to have it in any form. Curious about Jimmie, I discovered the above-referenced website, learned of his commercial "failure" as an artist through the early 80s, his fatal motorcycle accident in 1984, the current legal issues complicating the distribution of his music, and the dedication of his fan base. If he were alive today, it would certainly please him to see what has been written about him here and elsewhere. This is the kind of success every artist should wish for.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

BLOODROCK / PASSAGE

2009-02-25T23:19:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1972 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Peter Granet & Bloodrock
Recorded At: Capitol Tower, Hollywood California
Remixed At: Wally Heider Recording Studios
Engineers:John Wilson, Cecil Jones
Cover Art: John Hoernle
TRACK LISTING:
Help Is On The Way
Scottsman
Juice
The Power
Lifeblood
Days And Nights
Lost Fame
Thank You Daniel Ellsberg
Fantasy
THE PLAYERS:
Warren Ham - Vocals, Flute, Sax, Harmonica
Nick Taylor - Guitar, Vocals
Ed Grundy - Bass, Vocals
Stevie Hill - Keyboards, Vocals
Rick Cobb III - Drums, Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloodrock
http://www.bloodrock.net/
http://www.steviehill.com/
http://www.furious.com/perfect/bloodrock.html
REVIEW:
By Yours Truly

This is one of those albums that I truly love, even to this day. Every bass note, every drum fill resonates in me when I play this album. If life was fair these boys would've scored a major impact with this release, but as we all know, life is far from fair.

I had this lp the day it was released, being a diehard Bloodrock fan already, but when I got it home and saw that Lee Pickens was gone I was distressed, but I put it on the turntable and by the time side two finished I was stunned. I didn't know who these guys were but they weren't the bloodrock I knew. They had made a 90° turn and produced a masterpiece that didn't sound a bit like everything they'd put out up to that point.

Gone were Lee Pickens distinctive guitar licks and James Rutledge's gritty voice. In their place was Warren Ham. I didn't know a thing about this cat, but I loved his voice and he played a mean sax and wrote some great tunes for this album.

For me, this was one of the top albums of 1972, if not for all time at this point. I played it constantly and turned as many people onto it as I possibly could. Tunes like Help Is On The Way, Lifeblood, Days and Nights & Fantasy were my favorites and to this day I can sing them acappela from memory...."Is it a matter of what you are wanting but you can't have, I cannot see where the answer is lying, you want so bad" Almost 37 years later this album still has an emotional effect on me that not many albums have been able to maintain.

I sometimes think they did themselves a disservice by keeping the Bloodrock name. If they'd have shed the media's preconceived notions of the Bloodrock name with a new band name they might have had a better chance of success with this release. at any rate this is the best Bloodrock album ever released and one of my very all time favorites.

PASSAGE ( from the lyric sheet)

From the ocean, an unchartered mass, we came.

Haggard and sleepless, wet to our souls,

needing rest and gentle land.

The ship's reflection glistened in the water,

as we stood starboard.

In despondent gesture,

Scouring the coastline

for an inlet of safe anchorage.

As night desended it uncovered an opening in the wall

of rock which had been hidden during the days' glare.

Steering into the night wind, we approached

the passage with it's beautiful reefs that surrounded the entrance,

and entered those jagged cliffs of stone that hung in sheets of

luminous array on each of our sides.

In a deep, mysterious vacuum were we suspended.

A misty haze of a reality, until at the end of the breezeway

there rest a cove. A peaceful cove where day is night &

night is day and all things are one.

Where we decided to lay bare our spirit and dwell within.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

TODD RUNDGREN / RUNT, THE BALLAD OF TODD RUNDGREN

2009-02-21T23:31:00.005-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1971 on Bearsville / Ampex Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 192 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Todd Rundgren
Recorded At: I.D. Sound Studios, L.A. Ca.
Mixed At: Bearsville Sound Studios Bearsville, N.Y.
Engineer: James Lowe
Cover: Milton Glaser & Carl Fisher
TRACK LISTING:
Long Flowing Robe
The Ballad ( Denny & Jean)
Bleeding
Wailing Wall
The Range War
Chain Letter
A Long Time, A Long Way To Go
Boat On The Charles
Be Nice To Me
Hope I'm Around
Parole
Remember Me
THE PLAYERS:
Todd Rundgren - Production, Arrangements, Mixdown, and all Voices and Instruments except where indicated
Tony Sales - Bass, Percussion
Jerry Sheff - Bass
N.D. Smart - Drums, Timbales
John Guerin - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Rundgren
http://www.tr-i.com/
http://trconnection.com/
http://www.seahaas.com/toddrundgren/videovault.html
REVIEW:

Lo-fi, but very intimate and rich, January 27, 2000
By Frank Lynch "frank_lynch" (Brooklyn, NY USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

It is a commonplace for music critics to talk about Todd Rundgren's "Something/Anything?" as one of the finest albums of all time. They are justified in doing that, because the music is very inventive, and it truly is splendid. Once someone buys "Something/Anything?" and digests it, they find themselves at a fork in the road (what to listen to next?). Often, they will proceed with later material, starting with "A Wizard, A True Star" (not that there's anything wrong with that!) and not look back (something wrong with that!)
"Ballad of Todd Rundgren" is the album which immediately preceeded Something/Anything, and it is worth more attention than it gets. I believe that you can hear the inventiveness of "Something/Anything" in development on this album, and with a great clarity due to the smaller forces which Rundgren has employed. Many of the songs are just as melodic and infectious as those found on Something/Anything. I also find the music inventive (IIRC "Chain Letter" is in mixed meter; "Boat on the Charles" has the right hand working in a blues scale while the bass remains standard diatonic). Instrumentation is great (a very early talk box -- earlier than Frampton or Jeff Beck [maybe even earlier than Joe Walsh]). Lyrics are sweet, hilarious ("The Range War" is a Romeo and Juliet waltz about the son and daughter of feuding families -- "If I haaaad my way, we would be together back in Pittsburgh; it's the only town east of the river I know..."; "Boat on the Charles" is a poignant song of unrequited love, filled with great images about pending departure, and ultimately suicide).
I think there are songs on this album which Todd never surpassed in his career.
All those who take the later fork in the road and never hear this earlier effort are making a big mistake.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

HENRY PAUL BAND / FEEL THE HEAT

2009-02-18T00:18:00.002-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1980 on Atlantic Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Henry Paul & David Thoener
Recorded At: Criteria Recording Studios, Miami, Florida
Mixed At: Record Plant Studios, N.Y.C.
Engineer:David Thoener
Assistant Engineers: Jerry Masters, Mike Guerra & Jon Mathias
Cover: Chris Callis
TRACK LISTING:
Feel The Heat
Whiskey Talkin'
Running Away
Turn It Up
Go Down Rockin'
Longshot
Night City
I Can See It
Shot To Hell
THE PLAYERS:
Henry Paul: Guitars, Vocals
Billy Crain - Guitars
David Fiester - Guitars, Vocals
Barry Rapp - Keyboards, Vocals
Wally Dentz - Bass, Harmonica, Vocals
Bill Hoffman - Drums
Monte Yoho - Drums
Guests:
Joe Lala - Percussion
Joe Vitale - Synthesizers
Jon Mathias - Synthesizers
Jim Fish & Valerie Wilson - Background Vocals
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.henrypaul.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Paul_Band_(band)
http://www.geocities.com/black-hawk.geo/hpb/
REVIEW:
Worthy Follow up, September 5, 2003
By Peter Franks (Pittsburgh PA) - (Amazon Customer Review)
The Henry Paul Band's second release is as good as their debut CD, but slightly different. "Feel The Heat" is a bit heavier, a bit less country influenced CD than "Grey Ghost". This is not to say this is not a great CD, it is just a bit different than "Grey Ghost". It seems to me "Feel The Heat" is truly "Southern Rock". My personal favorite tracks are "Go Down Rockin'" and "Long Shot". Only drawback to this CD vs the HPB's first effort is the lack of a killer jam song. (Grey Ghost, So Long)

=======================================

Feel The Heat - Henry Paul Band, June 2, 2003
By Thomas Daneke (Woodbridge, New Jersey United States) - (Amazon Customer Review)

A great follow up to "Grey Ghost", "Feel the Heat"is Henry Pauls's second solo record after leaving theOutlaws. No acoustic guitars on this one, it's allelectric. Listen to this one loud! "Feel The Heat","Turn It Up", & "Go Down Rocking", are the best cuts.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

HENRY PAUL BAND / GREY GHOST

2009-02-17T23:10:00.002-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1979 on Atlantic Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Ron & Howard Albert for Fat Albert Productions Inc.
Recorded & Mixed At: Criteria Recording Studios, Miami, Florida
Engineer:Don Gehman
Assistant Engineer: Sam Taylor
Cover: Don Bratigam, Jim Houghton
TRACK LISTING:
So Long
Crossfire
Foolin'
Wood Wind
Grey Ghost
I Don't Need You No More
Lonely Dreamer
One Night Stands
You Really Know (What I Mean)
All I Need
THE PLAYERS:
Henry Paul: Guitars, Vocals
Jim Fish - Guitars, Vocals
Bill Crain - Guitars
Barry Rapp - Keyboards, Vocals
Wally Dentz - Bass, Harmonica, Vocals
Bill Hoffman - Drums
Guests:
Joe Lala - Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.henrypaul.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Paul_Band_(band)
http://www.geocities.com/black-hawk.geo/hpb/
REVIEW:
On CD at last, September 5, 2003
By Peter Franks (Pittsburgh PA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I've waited a long time for the Henry Paul Band's catalog to become available on CD. The wait is over. The debut release from the HPB is a one of the best Southern Rock efforts ever. This release could easily be called "Henry Paul's Outlaws" as it is very much like an Outlaws album. It seems to me Henry wanted the security of other singers to share the load, much like the Outlaws did. This album does not have a bad track on it. It does have, however, 2 of the all time best Southern Rock anthems on it, "Grey Ghost" and "So Long".

====================================
A Must Have, August 26, 2004
By P. Dahl - (Amazon Customer Review)

If you enjoy the Southern Rock of The Outlaws, then this is the disc for you. Former Outlaw's guitarist, Henry Paul, has assembled a group of top notch musicians to create an album that is truly a classic. From track 1 to track 10 every song is solid. Songs of note are "So Long" (melodic intro to a explosion of guitar licks, tasteful harmonies and various beat changes). "Lonely Dreamer" (where bluegrass and rock merge into one). "I Don't Need You No More" (blues style rock with excellent vocals). And of course the title track "Grey Ghost" the anthem of The Henry Paul Band. This album has been a mainstay in my collection since 1979. You cannot consider your collection complete without this disc.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

STEVE HACKETT / PLEASE DON'T TOUCH!

2009-02-12T00:24:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Chrysalis Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: John Acock & Steve Hackett
Recorded At: Cherokee, Kingsway, Record Plant, De Lane Lea
Engineer:John Acock
Assistant Engineers:Chip, Rob, Mark & Rafe
Cover Art:Kim Poor
All Songs Composed & Arranged By Steve Hackett
TRACK LISTING:
Narnia
Carry On Up The Vicarage
Racing In A
Kim
How Can I
Hoping Love Will Last
Land Of A Thousand Autumns
Please Don't Touch
The Voice Of Necam
Icarus Ascending
THE PLAYERS:
Steve Hackett - Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals, Percussion
Vocals - Steve Walsh, Richie Havens, Randy Crawford
Keyboards - Dave LeBolt, John Acock, John Hackett
Drums - Chester Thompson, Phil Ehart
Percussion - Chester Thompson, Phil Ehart, James Bradley, Richie Havens
Flutes - John Hackett
Piccolos - John Hackett
Bass Pedals - John Hackett
Bass - Tom Fowler
Violin - Graham Smith
Cello - Hugh Malloy
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.stevehackett.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Hackett

http://www.geocities.com/sunsetstrip/stage/5725/

http://www.hackettsongs.com/

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
I was never what you'd call a fan of Genesis. I just didn't get 'em and I was more into Southern Rock in the 70's. I saw them once live about the time "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway" came out and was completely bored. In my defense I wasn't very familiar with the album at the time of the concert so that more than likely had something to do with it.
This is Steve's second album after leaving Genesis to make his own music and this is another one of those albums that I'd take to the deserted Island with me. It's simply stunning from beginning to end in it's originality, musicianship & production. Truth be told I bought this album at the time because I'd heard the tune Narnia on the radio (remember when you could hear good music on the radio?) and being a huge Steve Walsh fan I bought it based on that tune alone. So, imagine my surprise when I get this album on the turntable and these beautiful, wonderful sounds start pouring forth from the speakers. By the time the first play was over I was a Steve Hackett fan for life, although over the years I've bought other albums by him though none have impressed me nearly as much as this one.
The ensemble cast for this album is also marvelous. Never having been a big Richie Havens fan either I was very impressed by his two vocals on How Can I & Icarus Ascending. Both wonderful songs and his voice is the perfect vehicle for them. Steve's vocals on Narnia & Racing In A are both great and Randy Crawfords Hoping Love Will Last is painfully beautiful. Her pure voice and her range are simply amazing. Why she's not a major act herself I dunno......
Steve has created with this release a very unique and impressive album that for me at least has stood the test of time or at least the last 31 years.

**As a side note, today is Steve's 59th birthday. I wish him many more. ***
=================================
Please DO Touch This Album!, February 5, 2006
By Alan Caylow (USA) (Amazon Customer Review)

1978's "Please Don't Touch" is Steve Hackett's 2nd solo album, and the first one the guitarist recorded after he left Genesis. Steve gets a lot of big name help on this collection, such as singers Richie Havens, Steve Walsh of Kansas, and Randy Crawford, as well as his brother John Hackett on flute and Genesis touring drummer Chester Thompson.

This is an excellent album with shades of progressive rock here & there, but also some pop & straightforward guitar rock as well. The music is awesome, Steve's guitarwork throughout fantastic. Steve also takes musical inspiration from classic fictional books for some of the songs: "Narnia" (sung by Walsh) is a fun, lighthearted number based on C.S. Lewis' childrens' classic "The Lion The Witch & The Wardrobe," the strange little tune "Carry On Up The Vicarage" is a musical tribute to mystery writer Agatha Christie, and the breathtaking finale "Icarus Ascending" (sung by Havens) is inspired by the classic Greek tale of the doomed flight of Icarus. With the exception of "Vicarage," Steve mostly sings backup or harmony vocals, leaving most of the singing duties to Havens, Walsh and Crawford, who all give great performances. Other standout tracks include the catchy rock of "Racing In A," the wonderful acoustic number "How Can I?" (sung by Havens), the stunningly beautiful instrumental "Kim" (dedicated to Hackett's wife, Kim Poor, who also paints his album covers), the lovely ballad "Hoping Love Will Last" (sung by Crawford), and, of course, the monstrous title track, a menacing rock instrumental featuring some of Steve's most scorching guitar licks ever recorded (originally, Steve submitted "Please Don't Touch" to be recorded by Genesis, but for some reason, the band turned it down. Thank goodness then that he kept it for himself!).

The only misstep Steve makes on the album are the lyrics to "Carry On Up The Vicarage." Musically, the song is fine (I also like the circus sound effects at the beginning), but the words to the song are pretty awkward. Stuff about pharmaceuticals, missing floorboards, and screaming from the belfry...they don't quite gel together. Also, Steve's vocals on this track are mostly distorted through a vocoder, which doesn't help. But other than that, there's nothing else to criticize on this very impressive album. With "Please Don't Touch," Steve Hackett stepped out from the shadow of Genesis, and established himself as a solo artist in his own right. "Please Don't Touch" is a great album. By all means, DO touch it!

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

ADD ANOTHER NAME TO THE GUEST LIST

2009-02-09T00:25:00.005-05:00

Geez, I guess I should read a newspaper more often or listen to the news on the radio once in awhile. Just found out during some random surfing that another great R & R musician, Billy Powell of Lynyrd Skynyrd fame has passed on. Talk about a band that's had more than it's share of sorrow, man. I guess that leaves Gary Rossington as the sole remaining survivor of one of the greatest bands of the 70's.

I had tickets to see 'em live for the first time in '77 in Kalamazoo. The concert date was unfortunately about 2 weeks after the plane crash. I was bummed for weeks about missing my chance. I did finally get to see the "tribute band" live a couple years ago in Muskegon at a summer festival. Both Rossington and Billy were there with Johnny Van Zant on the vocals. Better late than never I guess.

=====================

Billy Powell, a longtime keyboard player for Lynyrd Skynyrd who survived the band's 1977 plane crash, died at his Orange Park condo early this morning (1/28/09), according to police.
Orange Park Police Chief James Boivin said Powell called 911 from his condo in Club Continental and was pronounced dead at 1:52 a.m. after rescue crews performed CPR on him. Boivin said he was told Powell had an appointment with his heart specialist Tuesday but never made it to the appointment.
Current Lynyrnd Skynyrd singer Johnny Van Zant spent 22 years with Powell in the band. He said the band took the news of Powell's death hard."You know, they say they've got one hell of a band up in heaven. My brother Ronnie up in heaven is probably saying, 'Billy, what took you so long?' I'm sure they're catching up on things in heaven."
Powell, who went to Bishop Kenny High School, joined Skynyrd in 1972 after working for the Jacksonville band for a couple of years as a roadie. He was seriously injured in the Oct. 20, 1977 plane crash that killed singer Ronnie Van Zant and five other people.
Johnny Van Zant said his brother invited Powell to join the band after he heard him playing piano during a rehearsal of "Free Bird." "Ronnie said, 'What's that?' and Billy said, 'That's the introduction to 'Free Bird.' Ronnie said, 'I like that. You're in the band.'"
The piano introduction to the song became a highly anticipated part of the band's live show, though Johnny Van Zant said Powell was sometimes relucant to jump into the spotlight with it.
"He'd say, 'I don't want to do that, I'm embarrassed to do that,'" said Van Zant. "I'd make him do it: I'd say, 'Come on, it'll make their night.' It made mine."
Earlier this month, Powell and the band took a four-day cruise, called the Simple Man Cruise, on a ship out of Miami with "4,000 crazy Skynyrd fans," said Van Zant.
The band had recorded several songs for a new album and had upcoming gigs in Lousiana, Mississippi and Orlando. They will be canceled, said Van Zant.
"We've got to lay our brother to rest," said Van Zant. "That old saying, the show must go on, always counts. Unless you die."
Guitarist Gary Rossington and Powell were the only members of the pre-crash incarnation of Skynyrd who were still playing with the band. As for the future of the band,Van Zant said, "That's really the last thought in my head. I've given 22 years to the band and hope to do it for another 22."
Van Zant he spoke with Rossington, who lives in the Atlanta area, this morning. "He's hurting," he said. "You know, he was very sad and wondering why all us brothers are leaving him, why he's still here."
Rossington's wife, Dale, reached by telephone this afternoon, said her husband was too distraught to come to the phone. "We're just lost," she said, fighting back tears.
She said band members had long been worried about Powell's health. "But he had such a big huge heart of gold, such a huge abiding faith in God and his savior Jesus," she said.
Powell was married to Ellen Vera Powell and had four children.
"For me," said Van Zant, "if anybody reading your article wants to do something, say a prayer for Billy and his family. That would be greatly appreciated."

BLOODROCK / U.S.A.

2009-02-08T19:15:00.007-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1971 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 256 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Bloodrock & John Palladino
Recorded At: Capitol Records Studios, Hollywood, California
Engineers:John Wilson, Cecil Jones
Cover Art: Lockart
TRACK LISTING:
It's A Sad World
Don't Eat The Children
Promises
Crazy 'Bout You Babe
Hangman's Dance
American Burn
Rock & Roll Candy Man
Abracadaver
Magic Man
THE PLAYERS:
Jim Rutledge - Vocals
Lee Pickens - Lead Guitar
Nick Taylor - Guitar
Ed Grundy - Bass
Stevie Hill - Keyboards
Rick Cobb - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloodrock
http://www.bloodrock.net/
http://www.steviehill.com/
http://www.furious.com/perfect/bloodrock.html
REVIEW:

By Yours Truly

U.S.A. was the last album with the original line-up. They'd finally gotten away from Terry Knight and with the help of John Palladino, produced this album by themselves.

This is an album with a voice and something to say. When listening to this record you have to keep in mind that it's 1971 and most of the country was pretty damn sick of the Viet-nam war and all that it entailed. It's A Sad World, the first cut, sadly still applies today, maybe more today than back in the 70's. That would indicate folks that we're going in the wrong direction!

The production on this record is strong and makes it easy to listen to even almost 40 years later (my god, how time does fly!). In amongst the socially relevant songs there are a couple excellent rockers that will get your feet movin' and over half the material on this album was written by the band itself along with a couple continued contributions by John Nitzenger. All good stuff

This band was unfairly maligned back in the day for a variety of reasons, none of which meant a damn back then or today. If you could see the entire artwork you'd see on the back cover the devil with his right arm wrapped around the Capitol building, Which is shown in a shadow/translucent outline (a shadow of it's former self?). That's the devil's left hand on the front cover shooting a large hole into a civilians head. A very graphic illustration that says tons about the message on the vinyl. I'm surprised looking at this now that it ever made it to the record bins of America back then. On The CD release, that is now out of print, the back cover is nonexistent, covered up by a grey background that just lists the tunes and credits. Obviously more offensive in recent times to the policitally correct asses than it was back then......that in itself says volumes about the state of the union.

Historically and musically this is an excellent album, best played at 9 on the volume dial for full effect.

UPDATE 2/9/09: found a pic of both front and back cover so I thought I'd share.

===================

Another Amazing Adventure..., December 7, 2005
By Mark Gatzke (Plant City, FL USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I remember the first time I listened to USA as a teenager, scratching my head over the subtle yet undeniable departure from the fierce bludgeoning of their first three albums. I liked it just the same, but didn't really appreciate its beauty until many years later. From that perspective, USA stands as the successful culmination of Bloodrock's first incarnation and as a harbinger of their transition from proto-metal to progressive/jazz rock. Given their perceived status as a poor man's Grand Funk (an unfair and perplexing notion considering the complexity of some of their songs was something GFR could only dream of), Bloodrock responded with an album that demonstrated what a little pressure and a lot of determination and skill could produce. The song writing continued to improve, and, with some additional material from the Ham brothers and John Nitzinger, laid the foundation for a collaborative effort that gleamed with energy and depth. Two favorites of mine, Hangman's Dance and Magic Man, illustrate the sometimes confusing dichotomy of their work. The former is a heavy handed tune that embodies what most people remember them for. The latter is an understated masterpiece that takes the listener on an exquisite mystical journey. It also serves as a vehicle for some of Steve Hill's most hauntingly beautiful keyboard work and an incredible guitar solo by Lee Pickens that still gives me shivers when I hear it. As the final album with Jim Rutledge and Lee Pickens, USA brings the first chapter of Bloodrock's story to a close in fine style, and gives an overdue middle finger to critics who never really got what they were about or gave them proper credit for what they did.

===================

Un-freakin' believable rock from the 70's. Nothing compares to it !, March 28, 2008
By Misha Bendavid (Austin, Texas United States) - (Amazon Customer Review)

Bloodrock's first four records received regular, almost daily, play in my bedroom in the early 70's. My girlfriend came to hate them, because she liked "happy" music. When I worked in FM radio, I wedged them in every time I thought the PD was asleep. Forget the gory hit single "D.O.A", these mofos could rock ! These guys are really jazz musicians; you can hear the incredible swing in their rhythms and drummer Rick Cobb knew how to throw offbeat fills in that made their songs really fun and gave them incredible groove. Indeed, their songs were darker than anything Sabbath or Blue Oyster Cult were dishing out, because you had the sense that they knew what they were talking about. But their clever writing style, relentless sonic punch; crisp, well timed guitar solos and genuinely spooky lyrics made this band one of a kind. How I wish musicians were half as ambitious, now.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

RICHARD TORRANCE / DOUBLETAKE

2009-02-07T11:56:00.000-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: CARTER
Engineered By: Warren Dewey
Assistant Engineers: Paul Black, Barbara Issak
Recorded At: Sunset Sound, Hollywood Sound Recorders, Westlake Audio, Village Recorder
Remixed By: Warren Dewey & CARTER
Mastered By: Ken Perry
Cover Art: Total Graphics
TRACK LISTING:
Runaround Girl
I Can't Ask For Anymore Than You
Desert Lady
Long Lonely Nights
Get Into The Music
Real Love
Secrets Of Your Soul
Got No Shadow
Your Warm Love
THE PLAYERS:
Richard Torrance - Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards, Percussion
Terry Lee Lick - Vocals, Guitars
David White - Vocals, Bass
Dennis Mansfield - Drums, Percussion, Vocals
Melody Jean Horney - Keyboards, Vocals
Billy Payne - Keyboards
Vander Lockett - Percussion
Gene Page - String arrangements
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.richardtorrance.com/
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=186007004
REVIEWS:
This is Richards 1978 effort that followed his Bareback album. To be honest this isn't one that I played alot but that doesn't mean its not a good album or not worth taking a listen to.....I've always tended to get hooked on certain albums as time went on and so others suffered from a lack of attention.

I guess simply said, if you've downloaded or own other Richard Torrance albums then you'll find this one another quality recording worth owning or at least listening to.......

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

EMITT RHODES / THE BEST OF EMITT

2009-02-05T00:51:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released between 1970 - 1973 on ABC Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
TRACK LISTING:
Warm Self Sacrifice
See No Evil
Really Wanted You
Nights Are Lonely
Bad Man
Birthday Lady
My Love Is Strong
Blue Horizon
In Desperate Need
Bubblegum The Blues / I'm A Cruiser
Long Time, No See
Better Side Of Life
Shoot The Moon
Trust Once More
Side We Seldom Show
Drawn To You
Those That Die
Love Will Stone You
Only Lovers Decide
Farewell To Paradise
THE PLAYERS:
Emitt Rhodes - Vocals, Keyboards, Guitars, Drums, Bass and assorted other instruments
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.emittrhodesmusic.net/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emitt_Rhodes
http://www.furious.com/perfect/emittrhodes.html
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=55852671

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly,

Emitt Rhodes was a man ahead of his time. After a series of bands that he either joined or started himself, including the last one, The Merry-Go-Round, he decided that he needed total control of his music so he went solo and literally produced albums where he played and sang everything himself. Todd Rundgren was famous for this same tactic, but he also had a band for his other output. Emitt however didn't. Between 1970 and 1974 he produced 4 or 5 albums, depending on how you count, that got better with each suceeding release. At some point after Farewell to Paradise was released he became disenchanted with the music industry and walked away. This was surely a loss for any music lover. He hasn't released an album since 1974 although he still has a garage studio and produces the occasional record for someone else.

Even though these songs might sound a bit dated at times, we're talking early 70's fercryinoutloud......the words, melodies and song structure are timeless. He was definitely ahead of his time. I put this "Best Of" together back in 2002 after I purchased a CD burner and wanted a CD to share with friends who weren't aware of his music. Now here it is, 2009, and I'm still trying to spread the word. This CD collection has basically all my personal favorites on it, but that's not to say there aren't other songs on the albums that someone else might like more. If you've never heard his music before and are the least bit curious I'd download this one to get a taste and once you've heard it you'll probably want to shop the blogs to find the individual albums.

Listen to Warm self-sacrifice, My love is strong, Bubblegum the Blues/I'm a Cruiser, Shoot the Moon, Drawn to You, or one of my all time favorite songs, Love Will Stone You.....it still gets a reaction out of me even this evening.......

Trust me, you need to hear this one.

Tc
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA / THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

2009-02-04T23:30:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1968 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: David Rubinson
Engineers: David Diller, Glen Kolotkin, Authur Kendy
TRACK LISTING:
The American Metaphysical Circus
Hard Coming Love
Cloud Song
The Garden Of Earthly Delights
I Wouldn't Leave My Wooden Wife For You, Sugar
Where Is Yesterday
Coming Down
Love Song For The Dead Che
Stranded In Time
The American Way Of Love
THE PLAYERS:
Joesph Byrd - Vocals, Keyboards
Dorothy Moskowitz - Vocals
Gordon Marron - Violin, Ring Modulator
Rand Forbes - Bass
Craig Woodson - Drums, Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_United_States_of_America_(band)
http://www.terrascope.co.uk/MyBackPages/United%20States%20of%20America.pdf
http://www.cloudsandclocks.net/interviews/Byrd_interview.html
http://www.richieunterberger.com/united.html

REVIEW:
This is THE Underground classic of the 60's., August 20, 2004
By rash67 (USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)
This review is from: The United States of America (Audio CD) This is THE Underground classic of the 60's. The United States of America was, along with the Doors and Jimi Hendrix, one of the most played "alternative" rock albums when alternative rock meant something. After the 60's, some of these albums made it into the classic pantheon, others, just as good, like USA, are obscure. In 1968, 99% of the rock stations refused to play this because it was too good, too topical, too loud, too literate, too weird and, well, too psychedelic. Only low power college stations would dare to played it and boy, did they ever! Over and over all night! Dorothy Moskowitz had (has?) a voice with the beauty and power of the Jefferson Airplane's Grace Slick. Dorothy, it's good to hear from you. You were great, Dorothy, why did you stop?

USA, with their synthesizer and distortion violin and without lead guitar goes where no album had gone before and few since. The first rock album to make extensive use of synthesizer as a lead instrument. This was the first and as far as I know the ONLY rock album ever released on the prestigeous classical Columbia Masterworks label. Commander America said, "The US of A was...the most successful attempt to simulate the mental and bodily sensations of certain popular intoxicants of the Sixties". To be appreciated it MUST BE HEARD THROUGH HEADPHONES. "Hard Coming Love" hops around your head like a rattlesnake on a skillet in an attempt to simulate an orgasm between your ears! Full of musical and literary references, Byrd often sounds like late Charles Ives repeatedly quoting "Columbia the Gem of the Ocean". "Steppenwolf" (the book by Hesse, not the band) "the cost of one admission is your mind". "Winnie the Pooh". The visions of Hironymous Bosch's, "Garden of Earthly Delight" where Bryd descibes what he sees inside his girlfriends eyes. "Song for Dead Che" a beautiful ballad, "Agnus Dei" which compares the aftermath of love and memory to a nuclear blast "shadows on the pavement but no bodies do you find". "Coming Down". Don't be scared by Byrd's lead-off vehement anti-war diatribe about the military industrial complex, the "American Metaphysical Circus". I still can't listen to American Metaphysical Circus without a feeling of fear and loathing. From beginning to end a lost classic of the sixties.

Alternately lyrical, thought provoking, excessive, paranoid, beautiful, raucous, US of A is a classic with a short half-life which repeatedly appears and disappears from the marketplace. This is the real sixties, not the "Peace and Love - Flower Power" you usually hear about. USofA was a statment against all that was violent, trivial and puerile in America. There was a war on. Students hated this war and the draft with a anger 1000% higher than war opposition today. Kids were being drafted and sent to die in a war they violently opposed. In the midst of this war, blacks were rioting everywhere. It was a violent angry, dangerous, time. The DC, Detriot, Chicago, Watts were in flames. People were dying everywhere.

Today the 60's were viewed as flower-power and silly clothes and drugs, but in reality, these were escapist reactions to the ongoing madness over which they had little control. This album was definitely NOT viewed as a gimmick. It was the leading edge. The avant garde. Synthesizers were brand new inventions, there were only 3 very obscure Pop albums on the market that used them (Gershon Kingsly), no rock bands. This was the direction not taken in music because no one else had the wits and talent to pull it off. And no other record company had the guts to release it. get it while you can. five stars, my highest rating. a classic.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

BLOODROCK / 3

2009-01-26T23:42:00.008-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1971 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 256 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Terry Knight
Recorded At: Cleveland Recording Co.
Engineer: Kenneth Hamann
TRACK LISTING:
Jessica
Whiskey Vengence
Song For A Brother
You Gotta Roll
Breach Of Lease
Kool-Aid Kids
A Certain Kind
America, America
THE PLAYERS:
Jim Rutledge - Vocals
Lee Pickens - Lead Guitars
Nick Taylor - Rhythm Guitar, Vocals
Ed Grundy - Bass, Vocals
Stevie Hill - Keyboards
Rick Cobb - Drums, Vocals
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloodrock
http://www.bloodrock.net/
http://www.steviehill.com/
REVIEW:
ROCK AND ROLL'S FORGOTTEN GEM, January 13, 2005
By J. Anderson (Amazon Customer Review)
Breach Of Lease, You Gotta Roll, Whiskey Vengance, Jessica, Kool Aid Kids...It's all here, Haunting vocals, screaming guitar, Titanic riffs, The Hammond B-3 organ squeezed through the almighty Leslie speaker, Hard rock bordering on a Jazz/Metal fusion. This is probably one of the most overlooked albums by one of the most underated bands of all time. With Bloodrock there is never a dull moment. Music to be jammed to...music to be listened to. I'm convinced that the very song that brought them into the limelight (D.O.A.-from Bloodrock 2), turned enough people off that THIS album, Bloodrock 3, never had a chance to be recognized for the masterpiece that it is. This record would be at home along side of such other masterpieces such as Black Sabbath's "Paranoid", Alice Cooper's "Love it to Death" or Grand Funk's "Closer to Home". I judge a great album by it's listenability from beginning to end. There is no filler here. This album simply ROCKS! In my opinion, one of the greatest rock and roll records of all time. If you have never heard this record, you are missing out.
=======================================
MUSIC TREASURE, August 11, 2000
By PETER SERRANO (LOS ANGELES, CA USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

Growing up as a teenager in the early 70s was colorfull. I remember Vietnam, my first girlfriend, the first James Gang album, Deep Purple in Rock, and BLOODROCK 3. The Bloodrock 3 album somehow became an anthem for me during those colorful years. I have been eagerly waiting its release in CD after my turntable died. Now that it is out, I am as happy as the first man on the moon. If you appreciate music, Bloodrock 3 has a unique musical essence like a classical masterpiece, it is poetic an melodic, and the musicians were so cohesive and played with finesse. I personally think of all the Bloodrock albums, Bloodrock 3 is the best. I particularly like Jessica, Song for a Brother, Kool Aid Kids, and Breach of Lease. The transfer to CD is very good and full sounding and the sound in my tubed gear is awesome but you can hear some tape hiss from the master tape if you turn it up.This album is a gem that marked a special time in my life... Jeff pass me that roach...just kidding.
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

DARRELL MANSFIELD BAND / GET READY

2009-01-25T21:29:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1980 on Polydor Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Skip Conte An I.A.M. Production
Recorded, Mixed and Mastered At: International Automated Media, Irvine, California
Engineers: Richard Donaldson, Willie Harlan, Scott Spain
Assistant Engineers: Brook Johnson, Bruce Johnson, Jock Conte
Mix & Mastering: Richard Donaldson
Cover Art: Dan Sneberger
TRACK LISTING:
Get Ready
Mr. Rock 'N Roll
Above The Water
Billy Joe
Heaven Southwestern
Never Be The Same
Power Of Love
Life Saver
THE PLAYERS:
Darrell Mansfield - Vocals, Harmonica
Dennis Carothers - Gujitars, Vocals
Anthony Dean - Guitars
Jimmy Perez - Bass, Vocals
Skip Konte - Keyboards, Synthesizers
Guests:
Paul Angers - Drums
Donny Vosburgh - Drums
Charlie Sousa - Bass
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.darrellmansfield.net/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darrell_Mansfield
REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
This is an album I dug out of the dusty confines of my record collection the other day and rediscovered again. I played it and wondered why in the hell I hadn't tagged it as a top 10% effort from my collection.
This is a great rockin' record pretty much all the way around. The 8 tunes are tight, well performed and like I said.....rockin'.....
I can't really go into a whole lot of detail at this point because I'm still refamliarizing myself with it, but I can't imagine any lover of good bluesy, R&R not at least lilking this one if not loving it.
What surprised me is that I always had considered this band and Darrell himself as a one album effort for the simple reason I'd never seen another album with his name on it, but after a net search the other night I was amazed to find that this effort is the 3rd DMB album and there are many more after it, right up until current times. He has an interesting life story that I spent awhile reading and now I'm on the hunt for more Darrell Mansfield.
Give this one a go and maybe you'll be searching for more from Darrell along with me........
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

EDEN'S CHILDREN / SURE LOOKS REAL

2009-01-24T00:54:00.001-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1969 on ABC Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Bob Thiele & Jonathan Whitcup
Mix & Mastering: Steve Scheaffer
Engineers: Brooks Arthur & Steve Scheaffer
Cover Art: Elliot Landy & Norman Trigg
TRACK LISTING:
Sure Looks Real
Toasted
Spirit Call
Come When I Call
Awakening
The Clock's Imagination
Things Gone Wrong
Wings
Call It Design
Invitation
Echoes
THE PLAYERS:
Richard "Sham" Schamach - Guitars, Vocals
Larry Keily Jr. - Bass, Vocals
Jim Sturman - Drums, Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://punkblowfish.com/EdensChildren.html
REVIEW:
Of all the Boston groups, Eden's Children is by far the best. Utilizing the trio form now becoming so popular among the bluesÂoriented groups, they have that gutsy sound that instantly grabs you. The lead singer and guitarist, Sham, has an incredible ability to borrow from blues, jazz, and old rock forms and still come up with his own style. If he continues to develop in the direction he's going now, Sham will become one of the best in pop music. The bassist, Larry Kiley, already ranks among the best in the business. Seldom do we get such bass work in rock. I'm not going to go into a lengthy discourse on each of the cuts; besides, Frank Kofsky's liner notes are very good (a plug). All I can say is that Eden's Children are one of the most exciting new groups this year. Go buy the record and listen.
Jay Ruby - Jazz & Pop magazine June 1968

============================================

Because I spent a lot of late evenings as a teenager wide awake, when I should've been asleep, listenting to Dick Summer on WBC out of Boston, I got real familiar what was then being marketed as the Boston or Bosstown Sound. Bands like The Beacon Street Union, Ultimate Spinach, Apple Pie Motherhood Band to name just a few got big time radio play on WBC and Dick Summer did what he could to get all these fledgling bands exposure so that the East Coast could compete with the West Coast for the trippiest music going in the late 60's. There were quite a few of those Bosstown bands that I dug and this group, Eden's Children, was one of my very favorite ones. I pretty much wore this record out. So with that in mind, take a listen and ignore the surface noise, pay attention to the guitar work. It's a shame this cat never got his due cuz he has the chops to have one of the great ones.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

THE STEVE GIBBONS BAND / ROLLIN' ON

2009-01-22T00:10:00.007-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1977 on MCA Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Ken Laguna for Goldhawke Productions Ltd.
Recorded At: Eel Pie Studio
Engineers: Jon Astley
Assistant Engineers: Anton Matthews, Jon Astley, Mark Dodson, Jon Kelly, Rockette Hardiman
Cover Art: Sandy Okuma
TRACK LISTING:
Wild Flowers
Light Up Your Face
Now You Know Me
Mr. Jones
Till The Well Runs Dry
Tulane
Low Down Man
Till The Fire Burns Out
Cross Me Over The Road
Right Side Of Heaven
Rollin' On
Please Don't Say Goodbye
Tupelo Mississippi Flash
Rounden
THE PLAYERS:
Steve Gibbons - Vocals
Dave Carroll - Guitars, Vocals
Bob Wilson - Guitar, Vocals
Trevor Burton - Bass, Vocals
Bob Lamb - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Gibbons_(musician)
http://www.stevegibbonsband.com/
http://www.feenstra.co.uk/bands/stevegibbons/stevegibbons.htm
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
Steve Gibbons is a British rocker who put out a number of albums during the 70's & 80's. I have several, of which I think this is the best one, but there's several others out there I don't have. The Gibbons band was a basic Rock & Roll band, nothing too flashy. One reviewer somewhere down the line called him the British Bob Seger. A handle which may have hurt his chances in the states to be acknowledged.
This album contains a couple of Chuck Berry covers as well as some great original efforts

all played with originality and enthusiasm. If you're a fan of British R&R then I'd recommend this one. He's still out there performing today!

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

JOE JACKSON / RAIN

2009-01-20T23:22:00.005-05:00

Digitized from the original CD, released in 2008 on Rykodisc.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Joe Jackson
Album Mixed By: Sean Slade & Paul Q. Kolderie
Engineer: Julie Gardner
Mastering By: Bob Ludwig
Recorded At: Planet Roc, Berlin, Germany
Cover Art: Jim Rakete & Ed Sherman
TRACK LISTING:
Invisible Man
Too Tough
Citizen Sane
Wasted Time
The Uptown Train
King Pleasure Time
Solo (So Low)
Rush Across The Road
Good Bad Boy
A Place In The Rain
THE PLAYERS:
Joe Jackson - Vocals, Keyboards
Graham Maby - Bass, Vocals
Dave Houghton - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.joejackson.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Jackson_(musician)

http://www.jj-archive.net/

http://www.joejackson.net/

REVIEWS:
Limitless talent. Beautiful music., June 16, 2008
By psychomuse - (Amazon Customer Review)

Any fan of Joe Jackson doesn't really need to read a review of the latest release. He or she knows it's going to be great. Joe just keeps writing and performing beautiful songs that never fit into any one genre neatly. Somehow, his style of being all over the place, taking from every musical culture, has become a style of its own. With each song, he gives back more than he has ever borrowed. This release contains 10 gems that are each as good as anything he has done before. Previous reviews have mentioned various songs as highlights. I really like them all, but I must declare there are three songs that I find to be Joe at his absolute best- The Uptown Train, Invisible Man, and the incredible Rush Across The Road. The cd could only be better if it had more songs on it! These wonderful ten songs left me yearning for more. I almost felt disappointed when the last song finished. Then I hit the repeat button. The bonus dvd, while not bursting with content, is a worthy companion to the cd.

========================================================

Joe Jackson and another brilliant record, July 4, 2008
By Enrique Claure (Bolivia) - (Amazon Customer Review)

Too many years have passed since his last record. Maybe it took that long in writing this album thats just plain brilliant. As always his melodies fuse together with catchy rythms creating wonderful songs. Lyrics are smart and heart felt, his voice as good as ever even though I know he smokes like a steam locomtive. The recording itself is very good although I would not call it a master piece. Very good channel separation and low end. I feel that 10 songs are a tad few for hungry fans such as I. Oh well! lets hope he as another album coming out sooner than later. Rique Claure

===============================

By Yours Truly

This is a great Joe Jackson album, I like it alot

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

PAUL BARRERE / ON MY OWN TWO FEET

2009-01-19T23:03:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1983 on Mirage / Atlantic Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Paul Barrere & Jeff Glixman for E.S.U. Productions
Engineered By: Jeff Glixman & George Pappas
Assistant Engineers: Les Horn & Cheryl Bordagaray
Recorded At: Axis Studios, Atlanta Georgia & George Massenburg Studios, Los Angeles, California
Cover Art: Linda Rietrich & Bert Toulotte
TRACK LISTING:
Sweet Coquette
High Roller
Fool For You
Love Sweet Love
Who Knows For Sure
She Lays Down The Beat
Fortune Cookie
Along This Lane
THE PLAYERS:
Paul Barrere - Vocals, Gujitars, Bass, Mandolin, Percussion
Bass - Andy West
Drums - Ferrel Gummit, Rod Morgenstein
Percussion - Bobby LaKind
Keyboards: Steve Walsh, T. Lavitz, Bill Payne
Horns: Lee Thornburg, Greg Smith, Bill Bergman, Jim Coile, John Berry, Jerome Jummonville, David Stout
Background Vocals - Paul Barrere, Bobby LaKind, Keith Knudsen, Sherwood Ball, Nicolette Larson,
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Barrere
http://www.digitalinterviews.com/digitalinterviews/views/barrere.shtml
http://www.littlefeat.net/
http://www.gearwire.com/little-feat.html
REVIEWS:
Unlike most albums I put up, this one isn't a big favorite of mine, although it is a pretty good album. Not Surprisingly all the tunes on this album sound like Little Feat tunes, minus Lowell George. There is no doubt that Paul is an excellent guitarist and all the back up he gets on this effort is top notch, but to me there still seems to be something missing, it's all a bit flat.
That said, I think any Little Feat fan would like this album and want to add it to their collection. Most fans will probably like this one more than I do which is why I'm putting it up. It is great cruising music for the car and it's hard to keep you feet from tapping at some point. The production is well done and the 8 tunes are clean and well balanced. I guess the problem for me is it's hard sometimes to tell where one tune stops and the next one starts.......
Give it a go and see what you think
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

THE MIKE GREENE BAND / PALE, PALE MOON

2009-01-18T23:11:00.002-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1975 on GRC Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Music & Lyrics: Mike Greene
Produced By: Lew Futterman & Mike Greene
Engineered By: Jon Child & Bill Storm
Mixed By: Jon Child & Mike Greene
Mixed & Mastered At: The Sound Pit, Atlanta GA.
Cover Art: H. Rousseau - La Charmeuse De Serpents thru the courtesy of The Musees Nationaux, Paris, France
TRACK LISTING:
Hermetically Sealed
I Do All I Can
Pale, Pale Moon
It's Hard
With A Knife
Just Me And You
In The Morning
I Wonder Why
Valdez Bailey
Why Must I Be Lonely
THE PLAYERS:
Mike Greene - Vocals, Keyboards, Saxophones, Percussion
David Michael - Guitars
Rande Powell - Drums & Percussion
Mike Holbrook - Bass
WEBSITE(S):
The Net seems to be devoid of info on this fine band
REVIEWS:

By Yours Truly

This is a fairly new aquisition of mine. I've owned the second Mike Greene Band album since the 70's but I never knew there was another one until music blogs came along. I purchased my copy thru one of the old vinyl for sale houses and received a copy in very good shape.
I've played this one on and off over the last couple months and find it very pleasing listening. If you've heard Midnight Mirage then you could call this one M.M. #2 even though it was their first album. The songs on this album are extremely well done and very musical. Each musician is obviously very familiar with their instrument and they each bring quality playing individually together to form a cohesive arrangement.

As was the case so many times back in the 70's, this is just another quality band that got overlooked for some reason or another. I'd suggest that now you've got a chance to right that wrong. Take a listen to this one and Midnight Mirage and see if you can't find a tune or two that sticks with you.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

FEVER TREE / ANOTHER TIME, ANOTHER PLACE

2009-01-12T00:17:00.000-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1969 on Uni Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Scott & Vivian Holtzman for Zax-Altfeld & Associates, Inc
Engineered By: Walt Andrus, Frank Davis & Mic Leitz
Recorded & Mixed At: Andrus Productions, Houston, Texas; Summit Sound, Denver, Co.: Western & United Studios, Hollywood, CA
Cover Art: Babette Dodson
TRACK LISTING:
Man Who Paints The Pictures - Part II
What Time Did You Say It Is In Salt Lake City
Don't Come Crying To Me Girl
Fever
Grand Candy Young Sweet
Jokes Are For Sad People
I've Never Seen Evergreen
Peace Of Mind
Death Is The Dancer
THE PLAYERS:
Dennis Keller - Vocals
Rob Landes - Keyboards, Harp, Flute, Bass Recorder, Cello
Michael Knust - Guitars
E.E. Wolfe -Bass
John Tuttle - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fever_Tree

http://www.thepsychedelicguitar.com/knust.htm

http://homeofsynonym.com/fevertree.htm
REVIEWS:

By Yours Truly

This is Fever Tree's 2nd album and my sentiments from the first one pretty much apply here. In my humble opinion Fever Tree's versions of two standards, Fever and Peace of Mind are the best I've ever heard, even at this point in time. There's also an instrumental tune on this one called Jokes are for Sad People who's melodies have always tugged at my soul. Just a very beautiful, peaceful, piece of music. So for this one as well as the first one........
This is one of those special albums for me. One of those albums where the songs are part of your life's soundtrack. Up until the internet came along I was thinking I was about the only one who knew who they were, but I know now there were others out there, just hard to connect with them until the net came along and made it easier to find like minded individuals.
I never realized back then that San Francisco Girls was a minor hit, but it was always an anthem for me and my dream of heading out west and playing music. I never got out there but anytime I play this album I recall how I felt back then...it's like that certain smell that makes you think of being a kid at home.....
For me this is a great album from start to finish so it's hard to pick a favorite.
The reviews below, while based on the compilation of the first two albums, make some pretty valid points.
======================
A fine compilation..always was, always will be!, July 17, 2007
By Jill Molitor (Texas) - (Amazon Customer Review)

\While growing up in Houston, I had the opportunity to know these guys and hear them many times. I still have the original Fever Tree album and was very excited to find a CD was released so I can listen in my car. This is an exceptional piece of work by a band who was ahead of their time. There is nothing like the tonal quality of the instruments from the 60's and they don't disappoint on this LP. The boys are back and we'll never forget you! Check it out...you won't be sorry.

==================================

My hat's off to Neil, July 7, 2007
By S. Perry "Pez the Frish" (MA) - (Amazon Customer Review)
I've always found a good way to find new music is to find out who the bands you listen to enjoy. So when I came across a reference to this band in Neil Peart's book Roadshow I decided to look them up and wound up buying the album. All I can say is "Thanks Neil!" This is a solid and thoroughly enjoyable band. While they may have not been at the forefront of the psychedelia movement they are certainly worth a listen. The material runs from bluesy guitar driven tracks to laid back piano pieces, with horns, strings,and organ adding jazz and classical touches. At his heaviest the vocalist could have fronted Deep Purple, while in his softer moments I hear a touch of Neil Diamond. Most of the material is original, but they cover the likes of Wilson Pickett and the Beatles. The end result is an album that doesn't quite make the A list, but certainly shouldn't be forgotten.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

RICHARD TORRANCE & EUREKA / BELLE OF THE BALL

2009-01-11T15:44:00.004-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1975 on Shelter Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: A Manx Production
Engineered By: Duane Scott
Assistant Engineers: Ben Wilson, Glenn Meadows
Recorded & Mixed At: Sound City Recording Studios, Los Angeles CA. & The Sound Pit, Atlanta, GA.
Cover Art: Jesus Angel Mezquita
TRACK LISTING:
The Jam
Southern Belles
That's What I like In My Woman
North Dakota Lady
Side By Each
Hard Heavy Road
Don't Let Me Down Again
Singing Springs
Lady
Lazy Town
Sweet Sweet Rock & Roll
THE PLAYERS:
Richard Torrance - Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Percussion
Gary Rowles - Vocals, Guitars, Dobro, Pedal Steel, Vibes, Percussion
Dennis Mansfield - Vocals, Drums, Vibes, Percussion
Rikchard Cantu - Congas, Tumba, Bells, Timbales, Percussion
Jon Lamb - Vocals, Bass, Guitar, Percussion
Duane Scott -Vocals, Synthesizers, Harpsichord, Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.richardtorrance.com/
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=186007004
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly

Even though this album comes before Bareback I got it after getting bareback and as you might guess this older album, while still very good, doesn't have the polish that Bareback did. There's still some great stuff on this one from a mid 7o's point of view. If you liked Bareback there's a good chance that you'll find something to like on this one also. I don't really have any favorites on Belle of the Ball, but I do enjoy it for what it is....a good effort and a good example of 70's soft L.A. style rock and roll.
Give it a listen and you might be surprised. If not then you can always delete it from the ole Hard Drive real easy.
Tc
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

FEVER TREE / FEVER TREE

2009-01-10T20:28:00.006-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1968 on Uni Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Scott & Vivian Holtzman for Zax-Altfeld & Associates, Inc
Engineered By: Walt Andrus
Assistant Engineers: Frank David & Mic Lietz
Strings & Horns By: Mike Shields
Recorded & Mixed At: N/A
Cover Art: Jill Gibson
TRACK LISTING:
Imitation Situation 1 / Where Do You Go
San Francisco Girls (Return of the Native)
Ninety-Nine & One Half
Man Who Paints The Pictures
Filligree And Shadow
The Sun Also Rises
Day Tripper / We Can Work It Out
Nowadays Clancy Can't Even Sing
Unlock My Door
Come With Me
THE PLAYERS:
Dennis Keller - Vocals
Rob Landes - Keyboards, Harp, Flute, Bass Recorder, Cello
Michael Knust - Guitars
E.E. Wolfe -Bass
John Tuttle - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fever_Tree

http://www.thepsychedelicguitar.com/knust.htm

http://homeofsynonym.com/fevertree.htm
REVIEWS:

By Yours Truly
This is one of those special albums for me. One of those albums where the songs are part of your life's soundtrack. Up until the internet came along I was thinking I was about the only one who knew who they were, but I know now there were others out there, just hard to connect with them until the net came along and made it easier to find like minded individuals.
I never realized back then that San Francisco Girls was a minor hit, but it was always an anthem for me and my dream of heading out west and playing music. I never got out there but anytime I play this album I recall how I felt back then...it's like that certain smell that makes you think of being a kid at home.....
For me this is a great album from start to finish so it's hard to pick a favorite.
The reviews below, while based on the compilation of the first two albums, make some pretty valid points.
======================

A fine compilation..always was, always will be!, July 17, 2007
By Jill Molitor (Texas) - (Amazon Customer Review)

==================================

My hat's off to Neil, July 7, 2007
By S. Perry "Pez the Frish" (MA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I've always found a good way to find new music is to find out who the bands you listen to enjoy. So when I came across a reference to this band in Neil Peart's book Roadshow I decided to look them up and wound up buying the album. All I can say is "Thanks Neil!" This is a solid and thoroughly enjoyable band. While they may have not been at the forefront of the psychedelia movement they are certainly worth a listen. The material runs from bluesy guitar driven tracks to laid back piano pieces, with horns, strings,and organ adding jazz and classical touches. At his heaviest the vocalist could have fronted Deep Purple, while in his softer moments I hear a touch of Neil Diamond. Most of the material is original, but they cover the likes of Wilson Pickett and the Beatles. The end result is an album that doesn't quite make the A list, but certainly shouldn't be forgotten.

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

RICHARD TORRANCE / BAREBACK

2009-01-05T23:47:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1977 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: John Haeny
Engineered By: John Haeny
Assistant Engineer: Paul Black
Recorded & Mixed At: Sunset Sound
Cover Art: Johanna Van Zantwyk
TRACK LISTING:
Moonlight Trippin
Stay Young
Lovin' Good
Tender Memory
Circle Of Confusion
Rio De Janeiro Blue
So Sad
Leave My Love Behind
Under Your Spell
Alley Cat Jack
THE PLAYERS:
Richard Torrance - Vocals, Guitars
Guitars - Fred Tackett
Keyboards - Billy Payne
Bass - David Hungate, Wilton Felder
Drums - Jeff Porcaro, Harvey Mason
Percussion - Sam Clayton
Horns - Bob Findley, Ernie Watts, Pete Christlieb, George Bohanon, Buddy Collette
Fljute - Ernie Watts
Background Vocals - Venetta Fields, Maxine Willard Waters, Julia Tillman Waters, Thomas Righter Snow, Richard Torrance
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.richardtorrance.com/
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=186007004
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
Like alot of albums I own I don't recall how I came to posess this one, but I'm glad I do. While Richard Torrance is probably not a name that rings any bells nowadays, back in the mid 70's he put out several above albums, this one being my favorite and the reason it's my first submission of the man's work.
If you've looked thru the list of players on this disc you know it's a stellar group, with the likes of Billy Payne from Little Feat as an example. The tunes on this disc range from upbeat, good timey stuff to beautiful ballads. This one also includes what I believe is his biggest "hit" Rio De Janerio Blue. Along with that cut my favs include "Circle of Confusion", a great rocker and "Under Your Spell".
If you're a fan of the singer/songwriter genre of the 70's then I think it's a safe bet that you'll enjoy this one and welcome it as a wonderful addition to your music collection.
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

POUSETTE - DART BAND / POUSETTE - DART BAND

2009-01-04T00:18:00.004-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1976 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Norbert Putnam
Engineered By: Marty Lewis & Norbert Putnam
Recorded & Mixed At: Quadrafonic Sound Studio, Nashville, TN.
Cover Art: Lee Lockwood
TRACK LISTING:
What Can I Say
Dancer
Freezing Hot
There's Been A Mistake
Harder
Woman In My Dreams
All Your Lonely Hours
What You Need
Halo
Smile On Me
THE PLAYERS:
Jon Pousett-Dart - Vocals, Guitars
John Curtis - Vocals, Guitars, Banjo, Mandolin
John Troy - Bass, Vocals
Guests:
Drums - Allison Cook, Kenneth Buttrey
Keyboards - David Briggs, Shane Keister
Percussion - Allison Cook, Kenneth Buttrey
Pedal Steel - Phjil Baugh
Sax - Billy Puett
Flute - Billy Puett
Trombone - Dennis Good
Trumpet - George Tidwell
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.pousette-dart.com/nav.php
http://www.johntroy.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pousette-Dart_Band
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
The following reviews, culled from amazon, while based on the Best Of CD released in 1994, still very much apply to this Lp and the other 3 as well. It's a pretty safe bet that if you listen to this one and like it that the other 3 will be welcome in your collection also....
================================
Due for discovery, December 23, 2005
By Retro Guy (New York, NY) - (Amazon Customer Review)
I had one of Pousette Darts albums back in college, and it was a favorite. I uncovered the vinyl in a box in the basement recently and it was as great as I remembered. And now, it's on CD. If you like smart, sharp, tuneful acoustic music, don't miss Pousette-Dart. I am thrilled to have this great music on CD and vinyl!
===============================
At Last!, April 11, 2006
By Tom M (South of Canada) - (Amazon Customer Review)
I am so glad to finally found the Best of Pousette-Dart CD! My records (LPs) are so wornout, that I can't hear the music over the noise of the scratches. This CD has what I would consider the 22 best Pousette-Dart Band songs. These are the original versions recorded by Jon and the band.... and they sound every bit as amazing as they did when they first were released. I was lucky enough to see the band a few times, the first time being at Keene State College (Keene NH). As good as the recordings are, Jon is simply grand to hear live! He still tours and I recommend seeing him. From start to finish, every song is a delight..... this is a CD every music lover should own
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

POUSETTE - DART BAND / AMNESIA

2009-01-03T14:16:00.007-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1977 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Norbert Putnam
Engineered By: Marty Lewis
Assistant Engineer: Jimmy Stroud
Recorded At: N/A
Cover Art: Ron Pownall
TRACK LISTING:
County Line
Fall On Me
Amnesia
I Think I Know
May You Dance
I Don't Know Why
Winterness
Who's That Knockin'
Listen To The Spirit
Yaicha
THE PLAYERS:
Jon Pousett-Dart - Vocals, Guitars
John Curtis - Vocals, Guitars
John Troy - Bass, Vocals
Guests:
Bass - Norbert Putnam
Drums - Kenneth Buttrey, Jeff Teague, Allison Cook
Keyboards - Norbert Putnam, Michael Utley, Bobby Emmons
Percussion - Kenneth Buttrey, Farrell Morris, Jeff Teague
Sax - Harvey Thompson, Billy Puett
Flute - Billy Puett
Background Vocals - Ginger Holiday, Janie Fricke, Lea Jane Berinati
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.pousette-dart.com/nav.php
http://www.johntroy.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pousette-Dart_Band
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
The following reviews, culled from amazon, while based on the Best Of CD released in 1994, still very much apply to this Lp and the other 3 as well. It's a pretty safe bet that if you listen to this one and like it that the other 3 will be welcome in your collection also....
================================
Due for discovery, December 23, 2005
By Retro Guy (New York, NY) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I had one of Pousette Darts albums back in college, and it was a favorite. I uncovered the vinyl in a box in the basement recently and it was as great as I remembered. And now, it's on CD. If you like smart, sharp, tuneful acoustic music, don't miss Pousette-Dart. I am thrilled to have this great music on CD and vinyl!

===============================

At Last!, April 11, 2006
By Tom M (South of Canada) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I am so glad to finally found the Best of Pousette-Dart CD! My records (LPs) are so wornout, that I can't hear the music over the noise of the scratches. This CD has what I would consider the 22 best Pousette-Dart Band songs. These are the original versions recorded by Jon and the band.... and they sound every bit as amazing as they did when they first were released. I was lucky enough to see the band a few times, the first time being at Keene State College (Keene NH). As good as the recordings are, Jon is simply grand to hear live! He still tours and I recommend seeing him. From start to finish, every song is a delight..... this is a CD every music lover should own

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

POUSETTE - DART BAND / 3

2009-01-02T14:19:00.004-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Hank Medress & Dave Appell for Medress & Appell Productions Inc.
Engineered By: Wayne Tarnowski
Assistant Engineers: Dave Prentiss, Ted Spencer
Recorded At: Hit Factory, New York, New York
Cover Art: Charles Harbutt, Magnum Photos Inc.
TRACK LISTING:
Next To You
Stand By Me
Love Is My Belief
I Stayed Away Too Long
Where Are You Going
Louisiana
Too Blue To Be True
Mr. Saturday Night
Lord's Song
THE PLAYERS:
Jon Pousett-Dart - Vocals, Guitars
John Curtis - Vocals, Guitars
John Troy - Bass, Vocals
Michael Dawe - Drums, Percussion, Vocals
Guests:
Keyboards - Stan Schwartz
Percussion - Hank Medress, Norman Pride
Strings - David Appell
Background Vocals - David Lasley, Arnoild McCuller
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.pousette-dart.com/nav.php
http://www.johntroy.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pousette-Dart_Band
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
The following reviews, culled from amazon, while based on the Best Of CD released in 1994, still very much apply to this Lp and the other 3 as well. It's a pretty safe bet that if you listen to this one and like it that the other 3 will be welcome in your collection also....
================================
Due for discovery, December 23, 2005
By Retro Guy (New York, NY) - (Amazon Customer Review)

===============================

At Last!, April 11, 2006
By Tom M (South of Canada) - (Amazon Customer Review)

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

POUSETTE - DART BAND / NEVER ENOUGH

2008-12-30T13:47:00.004-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1979 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Norbert Putnam for Trebron Productions
Engineered By: Bruce Henzal, Norbert Putnam, Rick Allison, Gene Eichelberger, Marty Lewis & Jimmy Stroud
Recorded At: Criteria Sound Studios, Miami, Florida; Quadrophonic Sound Studios, Nashville, Tennessee
Cover Art: Doug Hopkins & Frank Laffitte
TRACK LISTING:
Never Enough
Silver Stars
For Love
Cold Outside
Hallelujah I'm A Bum
Long Legs
The Loving One
We Never Give Up
Cheated
Gotta Get Far Away
THE PLAYERS:
Jon Pousett-Dart - Vocals, Guitars
John Curtis - Vocals, Guitars
John Troy - Bass, Vocals
Michael Dawe - Drums, Percussion, Vocals
Guests:
Keyboards - Paul Harris, Chuck Chaplin, Shane Keister
Percussion - Joe Lala, Farrell Morris
Woodwinds - Tim Weisburg, Billy Puett, Bill Jones
Horns - Bill Jones, Billy Puett, George Tidwell,James Skipper, Dennis Good
Strings - Shelly Kurland
String Arrangements - Bill Jones, Sanchez Harley
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.pousette-dart.com/nav.php

http://www.johntroy.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pousette-Dart_Band

REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
The following reviews, culled from amazon, while based on the Best Of CD released in 1994, still very much apply to this Lp and the other 3 as well. It's a pretty safe bet that if you listen to this one and like it that the other 3 will be welcome in your collection also....
================================
Due for discovery, December 23, 2005
By Retro Guy (New York, NY) - (Amazon Customer Review)

===============================

At Last!, April 11, 2006
By Tom M (South of Canada) - (Amazon Customer Review)

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

EARTH OPERA / THE GREAT AMERICAN EAGLE TRAGEDY

2008-12-20T22:35:00.000-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1969 on Elektra Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 224 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Peter K. Siegel
Engineered By: David Sanders, Peter K Siegel
Recorded At: A&R Studios & Elektra Sound Recorders, New York, New York.
Cover Art: Gene Szafran
TRACK LISTING:
Home to You
Mad Lydia's Waltz
Alfie Finney
Sanctuary from the Law
All Winter Long
The American Eagle Tragedy
Roast Beef Love
It's Love
THE PLAYERS:
Peter Rowan - Vocals, Guitars, TenorSax
David Grisman - Vocals, Guitars, Alto sax
John Nagy - Vocals, Bass, Cello, Mandocello
Paul Dillon - Drums
Guests:
John Cale - Viola
Bill Keith - Pedal Steel
Jack Bonus - Saxes
Richard Grando - Saxes
David Horowitz - Keyboards
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_Opera
http://www.punkblowfish.com/EarthOpera.html

http://www.answers.com/topic/earth-opera

REVIEWS:
Taste of History, May 3, 2004
By John M. Benante - Amazon Customer Review

I actually had the LP, back during the turbulent late'60s - early '70s. And here we are, more than 30 years later, and the sentiments expressed in the title song couldn't be more cogent in these days of a bumbling chief executive and more death, all around, in Iraq. We sure haven't learned very much in the interim. Sure, the song has an overwrought quality to it - but it's still quite effective, and beautifully sad in sections. Peter Rowan's voice isn't especially wonderful, but its strained, almost reedy quality serves this song well.
Beyond the title song, we have a mixed bag. "Home to You" has aged well, I think. "Mad Lydia's Waltz" is a little known gem. Only "Roast Beef Love" and "Sanctuary From the Law" seem like throwaways, to my hearing at least.
Overall, this CD is highly recommended. At only about 37 minutes in length, it's rather short. But there are several high points that will reward the listener.

=================================

Apocalypse then, December 7, 2006
By E. OBrien (Palm Harbor, Fl.) - (Amazon Customer Review)

The title song is much more than a late 60's college radio classic. What Peter Rowan and Dave Grisman did on this anti war song cannot effectivly be described in words. It is powerful, heart pounding and hand sweatingly visceral. To listen to it is to feel the anger at the government and the frustration of knowing that the madness was continuing despite all efforts to stop it. And beyond belief was that while President Nixon was in the final stages of his own personal and political melt down he continued to send thousands of America's children to Viet Nam to die in an unnecessary war. He did all this while ignoring the voice of the majority of the people. Rowan and his group must have collapsed after recording it. Ignoring parallels with the present administration and Iraq is impossible. Listen to it and weep.

==============================

By Yours Truly

Another album from the late 60's that made a big impression on me. Back then it was Viet-Nam and now it's nigh on impossible to listen to the title track and not experience deja vu due to our current incompentant administrations war monger aspirations. Personally I don't expect it to get any better when the media's new messiah takes over and hoping it don't get a whole lot worse.

Politics aside, this band started the careers of Peter Rowan and David Grisman. Drop either name into a google search bar and see where they went from here. My favorite tunes, other than the title offering have always been Home To You, Sanctuary From The Law and All Winter Long. Back in high school we had an assignment, I don't recall what class, that reqired us all to do a 10 minute radio broadcast, complete with ads and news. So me, hating public speaking, Put all my ads and news in the first 4 minutes and played All Winter Long for my song to fill up the last 6 minutes. I don't recall the grade I got either but that's probably just as well. I'd rather have played the title cut which was less pastoral and more to the point, but I needed at least a passing grade.

This is Earth Opera's 2nd disc. I have the first one too but have never listened to it much......to my mind this is the one to have.....

Tom
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

MOBY GRAPE / WOW

2008-12-19T01:24:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1969 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 224 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: David Rubinson
Engineered By: Don Puluse & Glen Kolotkin
Cover Art: Bob Cato
TRACK LISTING:
The Place And The Time
Murder In My Heart For The Judge
Bitter Wind
Can't Be So Bad
Just Like Gene Autry, A Foxtrot
He
Motorcyle Irene
Three Four
Funky Trunk
Rose Colored Eyes
Millers Blues
Naked If I Want To
THE PLAYERS:
Peter Lewis - Vocals, Guitars
Jerry Miller - Vocals, Guitars
Bob Mosley - Vocals, Bass
Skip Spence - Vocals Guitar
Don Stevenson - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moby_Grape
http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/03/30/164732.php
http://www.warr.org/grape.html
REVIEWS:
WOW, October 11, 2007 By E.I.E.I. Owen (Philadelphia, Pa U.S. - (Amazon Customer Review)

With the release of Sgt. Pepper, almost everybody in the music world tried to copy it with mostly disastrous results. Overblown production, forced strings, and goofy sound effects showed up in most pop music afterwards. Everybody wanted to ride on that multi colored bus called Psychedliea, especially the major labels. Few groups were able to pick up the gauntlet that the Beatles threw down and the Moby Grape was one of them. "Wow" is the group's second studio album. It is a lot more varied than its predecessor is but it also shows that it is a product of it's time. Not many groups could pull off an album that goes from the madrigal-like "The Place & the Time", to a soulful rocker "Murder In My Heart For The Judge", to the sound collage in "Bitter Wind", to a shuffle with horns in "Can't Be So Bad", to the ode to vaudeville in "Like Gene Autry; A Foxtrot", all in the space of one side of an album (note: on the original vinyl version of the album "Like Gene Autry" was actually mastered at 78rpm.). The rest of the tracks give more evidence that the Grape had what most of their San Franciscan brethren did not, songs. Again the re-mastering job is better than expected and a vast improvement over previous incarnations. Unfortunately, the bonus album "Grape Jam" is not included. When "Wow" was initially released, record buyers got the "Grape Jam" album as a bonus. Now "Grape Jam" is available separately and like "Wow," it has bonus tracks and liner notes from Gene Sculatti. So pick it up and enjoy. UPDATE: 12/27/2007-Matthew Katz does it again. You may have heard that Sundazed pulled the first 3 albums from circulation due to Katz and an issue with the ownership of the artwork. Honestly Katz let it go, how many times do you have to screw these guys over I mean reallly, it isn't like the reissues shipped platinum. F&%* MATTHEW KATZ

==============================
Moby Grape's "Wow", October 17, 2007
By James Choma - (Amazon Customer Review)

Before I ever heard any of their songs, I knew of Moby Grape by reputation -- the quintessential 60's band that had an incredible first album, the success of which they could never top, and they flamed out big time. I always wondered how that momentum was halted and how such a highly regarded band could flop. That brings us to "Wow." Until recently, I had never heard anything other than their first album, which was pretty darn good and serves as a great late 60's timepiece. When getting ready to listen to "Wow," I prepared myself for dull, boring, tuneless 60's psychedelia. I must say I was truly blown away by how good this entire CD was. I dare say it's just as good as the debut album. Great harmonies, tight playing and arrangements, and great instrumentation throughout. I swear listening to this made me feel like I was transported back to 1968. It's one of those rare albums that does live up to it's title. This prompted me to find out more about the band and see exactly where things fell apart. And after searching, I found that with Moby Grape, what could go wrong, did go wrong. At the root of it all lay horrible management on the business and personal side. Moby Grape was a wonderfully constructed boat without a rudder; and when they crashed, they quickly sunk. If you're interested in the band, all you really need is this album and the self-titled debut. I think "Vintage" (a double CD collection of their best) may be out of print, but it certainly would give you a taste of the band as well. Stand out songs: "Murder in My Heart For the Judge," "Bitter Wind," "Rose Colored Eyes," and "He."
==============================

WOW is WOW, November 27, 2007
By Pete (NJ) - (Amazon Customer Review)

The fall of `68 was an exciting time for me as I had just gotten my driver's license and was beginning my senior year in high school. A friend of mine had just bought this album and I said I had to listen to it. "WOW" is an understatement. And the "Like A Gene Autry Foxtrot" that you would have to get up and switch the record player to 78 r.p.m. was cool. Almost all record players could play 78 in those days. And it included an extra album, "Grape Jam". "Grape Jam" was nice, but was not as good as "WOW", but it was free, so that was good (today these cuts would be considered bonus tracks). In the years since, this still remains as one of my favorite albums. The vinyl is well worn and my turntable doesn't play 78 anymore. In the mid 90's I found a CD which was issued by San Francisco Sound. A little pricey at the time of $24.95, but it included the "Grape Jam" album, and it was a vast improvement over my old worn vinyl. Unfortunately it did not include "Like A Gene Autry Foxtrot" from the WOW album and "The Lake" from the JAM album. In the years following, as technology evolved, I found ways to record the missing songs and improve the sound from the old vinyl. So I now have a complete album set. I can't comment on the quality of the newly released CD, but the WOW album was and still is a great album. Extra tracks are a bonus. Too bad they didn't include the "Grape Jam" cuts as they were bonus tracks in their day. Now you have to buy them extra. Buy WOW and enjoy.

========================

By Yours Truly

If the reviews above still have you doubting whether this one is worth the time to download I will shout out a resounding yes! This is seriously one of my most favorite albums from the time era is was born in. I still play it today and enjoy it immensely. Sure it's gonna sound dated if you're hearing it for the first time today, but for us old farts who were around back then, this one is a jewel. I'd put it up against any other album made in the same timeframe. It's just too bad that the suits (like always) screwed them over and killed another great band.

Tom
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

A BUMP IN THE ROAD...

2008-12-17T23:31:00.006-05:00

For reasons only known to the internet gods and maybe Rapid Share, I've been unable to upload anything for about a week now.

I've contacted Rapid Share a couple times but haven't heard back, yet.
I've got a number of things ready to go, but can't get them over the wire, so to speak. So, just so you know what's going on. I have hopes of getting this resolved soon, but who knows anything for sure......

Stay tuned.

UPDATE: 12/18/08 - Not real sure why, but it seems to work sometimes and not others at home however if I take my uploads to work and do 'em there, everything is fine. Obviously a problem on the home front. I'll look into it when there's some free time.

LES DUDEK / GYPSY RIDE

2008-12-06T00:21:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1981 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Les Dudek
Engineered & Mixed By: Lee De Carlo
Assistant Engineers: Kevin Eddy, Bill Freesh
Recorded & Mixed At: The Record Plant, Hollywood, California
TRACK LISTING:
What's Lost Is Truly Gone
Deja Vu ( Da Voodoo's In You)
Sacrifice The Fool
Forever Or Never
Too Damn Dizzy
Call Me Later
Gypsy Ride
Hey, Chicky Chicky
Don't Trust That Woman

I'm O.K.
THE PLAYERS:
Les Dudek - Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards
Gary Ferguson - Drums
Max Nolan - Bass
Cliff Newton - Guitar, Background Vocals
Peter Schless - Keyboards
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.lesdudek.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Dudek
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=43254022
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly

This is the 4th Les Dudek solo album and was released 3 years after Ghost Town Parade. Inbetween this one and GTP Les did a short lived gig with a "supergroup" that went by the moniker DFK Band. That stood for Dudek, Mike Finnigan & Jim Krueger.

This is another solid album from Les. Not as cohesive for me as Ghost Town Parade but a top shelf effort none the less. My favorite tunes on this one include What's lost is truly gone, Call me later & Don't trust that woman.

This musicians on this release are an actual band instead of a group of assorted musicians as on the previous releases.

This was Les's last solo album until the mid 90's when A deeper shade of Blues was released. If you've dug the first 3 then this is a natural addition to your collection. Great music from an excellent guitar player.

Tom
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

LES DUDEK / GHOST TOWN PARADE

2008-12-05T00:12:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Bruce Botnick
Engineered By: Andy Johns & Mike Clink
Recorded & Mixed At: The Record Plant, Studio C; Devlen; The Record Plant Mobile
TRACK LISTING:
Central Park
Bound To Be A Change
Gonna Move
Tears Turn Into Diamonds
Friend Of Mine
Does Anybody Care
Down To Nothin'
Falling Out
Ghost Town Parade
THE PLAYERS:
Les Dudek - Vocals, Guitars
Drums - Jeff Porcaro, Jim Keltner, Gary Mallabar, Carmine Appice
Bass - Gerald Johnson, Robert (Pops) Popwell
Guitar - Jim Krueger
Keyboards - Mike Finnigan, Max Groenthal
Percussion - Patrick Murphy
Background Vocals - Mike Finnigan, Les Dudek, Jack Bruce, Max Groenthal
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.lesdudek.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Dudek
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=43254022

REVIEWS:

Buy this one!!!!!!!, December 18, 2005
By Jeff Daniel Grundmann "venustwins" (Santa Fe, NM USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

Be it "Ghost Town" the other initial Dudek albums "Les Dudek" or "Say No More" you will have a great addition to your collection. My L.P. collection had (and still has) copies of each and they have been WELL played. Les' guitar playing is robust and intense - a great example of a style that was prevelant in the Bay area during the 70's. While I agree that there is some influence of the annoyance of the late 70's - disco - I do not feel that it in any way detracts from the music or total feel of the disc. I have been turning people on to Les for many many many years now and this album was always a sure fire introduction to one of the great guitar players to survive the 70's. Buy ... Listen... Be Happy

=====================================

An electric-guitar fan's dream, August 18, 2006
By Abstract Expression (NC) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I first heard this album late one night through headphones when my college radio station played it in its entirety at the time of its release. Mesmerized, I purchased it the next day. I have always sought out great guitar work and consider this one of my favorite examples. Whereas some 70's guitarists' solos become over-extended and tedious, Dudek's solos have purpose, and he knows how to integrate them seamlessly and perfectly into the structure of his songs. The songs on this collection flow smoothly from one to the next, and it feels complete with a definite beginning, middle, and end. Highlights for me on the album include the opening "Central Park," and prepare to be overwhelmed by the searing guitar work at the end of "Friend of Mine." "Does Anybody Care," with a reggae-inspired beat, has a nice message that is still relevant today. "Falling Out" achieves a great rock groove and demonstrates impeccable timing. The album ends masterfully with the title track. I also own "Dudek" and "Say No More." Both certainly have their highlights, but I recommend this one, "Ghost Town Parade," as Dudek's most fully realized masterpiece

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

LES DUDEK / SAY NO MORE

2008-12-02T00:13:00.001-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1977 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Bruce Botnick
Engineered By: Bruce Botnick
Recorded At: Capitol Studios

Mixed At: Hollywood Sound, Hollywood California

TRACK LISTING:
Jailabamboozle
Lady You're Nasty
One To Beam Up
Avatar
Old Judge Jones
Baby Sweet Baby
What's It Gonna Be
Zorro Rides Again
I Remember
THE PLAYERS:
Les Dudek - Vocals, Guitars
Drums - Jeff Porcaro
Bass - Gerald Johnson
Keyboards - David Paich, Alan Feingold, Ted Straton
Percussion - Kevin Calhoun, Reymondo, Pat Murphy
Background Vocals - Rebecca Louis, Sherie Matthews, Clydie King
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.lesdudek.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Dudek

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=43254022

REVIEWS:

He's right up there......, June 3, 2004
By Douglas N. Girardot "poprocks" (Armada, Michigan) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I first heard L.D. back in the 70's,"Old Judge Jones" got some air play on Detroit's progressive FM stations, and I bought the vinyl, to my surprise the entire LP was very good (I don't throw the word great around too often). Les is very flavorful in his guitar phrasing, he can sing, play bass, and can write, ( he co-wrote "Jessica" with the Allmans). I played the "Say no more" CD a few days ago and I still "get off" on "One to Beam Up" and "Zorro Rides Again" two KICK-ASS instrumentals. Like other fans, I'm begging Sony to release ALL Les Dudek material (you guys will make your money back). I have every thing he's done on vinyl, including the "D.F.K. Band" , but the vinyl's wearing thin. If you like rock & roll guitar, well written songs, and very good productions, grab all the Les Dudek stuff you can find you won't be disappointed. Check out Les in the movie "Mask", with Cher and Sam Elliot, he played a biker named "Bone"

==========================

Say No More, August 24, 2000
By C. Johnson (Chiacgo, Illinois, U.S.) - (Amazon Customer Review)

It's been awhile since someone commented on Les, so I'm throwing my hat in the ring. Definitely one of the all time best guitar players...bar none! I have to agree with the rest of the reviews. From his 1st self titled Les Dudek album right up till Deeper Shades, he's given' us listeners nothing but pure enjoyment. It's time for SONY to wake up and release everything of Les's either in a box set or in the current trend of todays affordable 2 on 1 discs. We need "Les Dudek", Ghost Town Parade", DFK (Dudek, Finnegan & Krueger Band and "Gypsy Ride". This is a correction to the previous reviewers who referred to the title as Deja Vu. Sony's held these captive long enough. It's time to release Les' great music for all to enjoy. Our LP's can only last so long!

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

LES DUDEK / LES DUDEK

2008-12-01T21:42:00.006-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1976 on Columbia Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Boz Scaggs
Engineered By: Leonard Kovner, Roy Segal, Glen Kolotkin
Mixed By: Tom Knox
Recorded & Mixed At: Davlen Sound Studios, North Hollywood, California & Columbia Sound Studios, San Francisco, California

Cover Art: Ethan Russell

TRACK LISTING:
City Magic
Sad Clown
Don't Stop Now
Each Morning
It Can Do
Take The Time
Cruisin' Groove
What A Sacrifice
THE PLAYERS:
Les Dudek - Vocals, Guitars
Drums - Jeff Porcaro
Bass - Gerald Johnson, Jim Hughart, David Hungate, Chuck Rainey
Keyboards - David Paich, David Foster
Lyracon - Tom Scott
Congas - Mailto Correa
Percussion - Glen Cronchite
Background Vocals - Maxine Green, Pepper Swenson, Jeri Stevens, Carolyn Willis, Myrna Matthews, Rebecca Louis, Boz Scaggs, Les Dudek
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.lesdudek.com

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Dudek

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=43254022

REVIEWS:
Welcome Back Les!, April 13, 2004
By Tax Guy "Sam" (Sunny Florida) - (Amazon Customer Review)
It's wonderful to see this classic back! If you are a fan of the Allman Brothers or Boz Scaggs you must have this CD! He played with the Allman Brothers on Brothers and Sisters and was on Boz's Silk Degrees. A killer guitarist in the tradition of Duane and the vocal style of Gregg, with the production and songwriting of a cross of both the Allman's and Boz. The songs are excellent. Why this has been out of print? I do not know. I have been waiting for it for years. Pick up a copy of a lost classic, you will not be disappointed!

==========================
Had to catch my breath, October 4, 2005
By Jim Hoopes (Tucson, Arizona USA) - (Amazon Customer Review)

I couldn't agree more with the first reviewer! When I typed in Les Dudek in the search, and saw this album pop up, I actually gasped. I have been waiting over 20 years for this album to be re-released. If you don't have this album, you need to get it!! The song "What a Sacrifice" will never be duplicated. There was a watered down version on a Steve Miller album of no particular note (except for this song). Get this album, and prepare to be amazed.
CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

ROAD TRIP!

2008-11-25T00:17:00.004-05:00

Well, with the American holiday Thanksgiving coming up this Thursday, just wanted to let y'all know that we'll be leaving town in the morning to go eat turkey with my daughter and grandkids out in Kansas for a couple days.

We'll be back by the end of the week so if you've got info requests just know that I'll get to 'em as soon as possible after we get back home.

BAREFOOT JERRY / BAREFOOT JERRY'S GROCERY

2008-11-25T00:05:00.000-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1975 on Monument Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Wayne Moss & John Harris for Pumpkin Productions
Technical Advisor: John Moss
Engineered By: Wayne Moss, Paul Moss & Joe Gayden
Remixed By: Wayne Moss & John Harris
Recorded & Mixed At: Cinderella Sound, Madison, TN
TRACK LISTING:
Disc 1
Hospitality Song
I'm Proud To Be A Redneck
Smokies
Quit While You're A Head
Blood Is Not The Answer
Come To Me Tonight
Finishing Touches
The Minstrel Is Free At Last
Nobody Knows
That's Ok, He'll Be Your Brother Someday
Disc 2
Castle Rock
One Woman
In God We Trust
Message
Friends
Snuff Queen
LIttle Maggie
Warm
Fish 'N Tits
Ain't It Nice In Here
Ebenezer
THE PLAYERS:
Wayne Moss - Guitar, Bass
Mac Gayden - Guitar
John Harris - Keyboards
Russ Hicks - Pedal Steel
Kenny Malone - Drums, Percussion
Kenny Buttrey - Drums
The Goodlettsville String Sextet
The Hendersonville Horns
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.barefootjerry.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barefoot_Jerry
http://www.tennesseeconcerts.com/barefootjerry.html
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly

Well, in case you weren't aware this two record set is a re-release of Barefoot Jerry's first two albums that were released as single units in 1972 & 73 I believe. There's alot of good stuff on this re-release and if you can find a copy it's well worth having. The 45 bucks that someone on amazon is charging might be a bit steep but I guess it depends on how much disposable income ya got these days. Lucky for me I already got a copy cuz I couldn't pay the ridiculous prices some of these clowns are charging these days.

Anyhow, If you any kind of a Barefoot Jerry fan at all then you really need this one to get an idea where it all started. Some of the tunes are dated and some are timeless. I'll let you decide which is which.

Tom

CONTACT:
READ THIS for more information on this album.

STEVE WALSH / SCHEMER DREAMER

2008-11-24T19:46:00.002-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1980 on Kirsher Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Steve Walsh, Brad Aaron & Davy Moire
Engineered By: Brad Aaron & Davy Moire
Assistant Engineers: Les Horn & Davy Pinkston
Recorded & Mixed At: Axis Sound Studios, Apogee Studios & Capricorn Studios.
Cover Art: Will Weston III & T. Drennon
TRACK LISTING:
Schemer - Dreamer / That's All Right
Get Too Far
So Many Nights
You Think You Got It Made
Every Step Of The Way
Just How It Feels
Wait Until Tomorrow
THE PLAYERS:
Steve Walsh - Vocals, Vibes, Keyboards, Drums
Phil Ehart - Drums
Tim Gehrt - Drums
Steve Morse - Guitars
Allen Sloan - Volins, Viola
Jeff Lux - Guitars, Flutes, Vibes
Kerry Livgren - Guitar
Rich Williams - Guitar
David Byson - Guitar
Duane Buckler - Bass
Merle McLain - Bass
Turner Gaugh - Bass
Cecil Welch - Trumpet
Skip Lane - Saxophone
Vic Hancock - Handclaps
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Walsh_(musician)
http://www.stevewalshrocks.com/
http://www.steve-walsh.de/
http://www.kansasband.com/
REVIEWS:
The other half of Audio-visions?, May 7, 2005
By Patrick the rogue "Cool runnings" (NC, USA) - Amazon Customer Review

I saw a remark somewhere, I think from Robby Steinhardt, the violinist for Kansas, that the Kansas album of 1980 (Audio-visions) had suffered because both Kerry Livgren and Steve Walsh had kept their best material for their own solo albums. One can only agree that the best from Schemer-Dreamer by Steve Walsh, Seeds of Change by Kerry Livgren, and Audio-visions by Kansas, would have resulted in one phenomenal album. Fortunately for us fans we have all three and can consider 1980 to be a banner year. The production and musical choices on this album are very close to the sound of classic Kansas, though lacking many of the progressive rock elements that were normally supplied by Kerry Livgren. Wait Until Tomorrow however would fit on a Kansas album without a blink; changes in mood, expressive, well crafted lyrics - the song begins with soft voice and piano and builds to a desperate jam-filled crescendo. The ballad Just How it Feels, a tribute to his grandparents, is possibly the most poignantly beautiful and touching song ever sung or written by Steve, reminiscent of Lonely Wind, from Kansas' first album, more than Dust in the Wind. The foot stomping, piano punching rocker Every Step of the Way is Steve's autobiographical statement - would have been Kansas' answer to Boston's Rock and Roll Band. The energetic You Think You Got It Made was included on Kansas' Audiovisions tour playlist, was played pretty much exactly as it sounds on the album and fit in very well, testifying to how close to Kansas the sound is. Any Kansas fan will find much to love here. The sound is definitely in the vein of Monolith/Audiovisions Kansas rather than Steve's later work with Streets. Highly recommend this gem.

====================

By Yours Truly

First I gotta apologise because upon ripping this one I realized it was in a bit worse condition than I had thought. That said, if you've never heard this one then this rip should be enough to make you run out and get a not so crackly CD.

This album, along with Kerry Livgren's Seeds Of Change, both released in 1980, kinda signified the start of the end of the original Kansas band, Proto-Kaw aside........

Having seen the band several times in the 70's and being amazed by Walsh's powerful voice and high energy on stage delivery, like handstands on the keyboards, this album fits right in where the Steve Walsh part of Kansas leaves off. starting off with the high energy rocker, Schemer-Dreamer and going forward from there. This is a solid album and much more accessible for the average Kansas fan than Steve's later solo offerings.

I saw Kansas perform this past summer and truth be told I was quite disappointed because Walsh took a back seat ride most of the evening with the bass player and the violinist doing a large part of what used to be Walsh vocals. I guess I should cut him some slack though cuz ain't none of us from the 70's in our 20's any longer. Lord knows he's done his part.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

BAREFOOT JERRY / BAREFOOTIN'

2008-11-16T01:53:00.000-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1977 on Monument Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Wayne Moss & Barefoot Jerry for Pumpkin Productions
Engineered By: John Moss, Wayne Moss
Recorded & Mixed At: Cinderella Studio, Madison TN
Cover Art: Ken Kim
TRACK LISTING:
Barefootin'
I Ain't Gettin' No Touchin'
Keep On Funkin'
Sentimental Man
Dixie Dancer
Hiroshima Hole
Diana
Tokin' Ticket
Headin' For The Hills
Highland Grass
THE PLAYERS:
Guitar - Wayne Moss, Barry Chance, Russ Hicks, Mike McBride
Steel Guitar - Russ Hicks
Keyboards - Charlie McCoy, Brry Chance
Bass - Wayne Moss, Mike McBride, Barry Chance
Drums - Si Edwards
Harmoncia - Charlie McCoy
Dobro - Russ Hicks
Jews Harp - Charlie McCoy
Vibes - Wayne Moss, Si Edwards
Mandolin - Mike McBride
Flutes - Charlie McCoy
Moog - Wayne Moss
Banjo - Buddy Blackman
Dobro - Buddy Blackman
Percussion - Si Edwards, Wayne Moss, Mike McBride
Backing Vocals - Barefoot Jerry
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.barefootjerry.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barefoot_Jerry
http://www.tennesseeconcerts.com/barefootjerry.html
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly

This is probably my favorite BJ album if someone was forcing me to pick one. For this one there seemed to be a more cohesiveness to the band and the record. The addition of Charlie McCoy on harp and other assorted instruments doesn't hurt either. Sitting here trying to pick out a couple favorite tunes and having a hard time of it cuz I like 'em all, but Sentinmental Man, Hiroshima Hole & Headin' for the Hills are probably the ones that I sing along with the most and that must mean something right?

Too bad there wasn't a sequel to this one, it probably would've been a knockout.
Tom
CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

BAREFOOT JERRY / KEYS TO THE COUNTRY

2008-11-15T00:59:00.004-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1976 on Monument Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Wayne Moss & Barefoot Jerry for Pumpkin Productions
Engineered By: John Moss, Wayne Moss, Tom Knox
Recorded & Mixed At: Cinderella Studio, Madison TN
Cover Art: Gerard Huerta
TRACK LISTING:
The Battle Of New Orleans
Summit Ridge Drive
Woes Of The Road
Wilma Lou
Appalachian Fever
Youi Can't Say It All
Tonite's The Nite I Do
Georgia On My Mind
Uncle Pen
My God (Is Alright With Me)
THE PLAYERS:
Guitar - Wayne Moss, Barry Chance, Steven Davis
Steel Guitar - Russ Hicks
Keyboards - Steve Davis
Bass - Wayne Moss, Terry Dearmore
Drums - Si Edwards
Harmoncia - Terry Dearmore
Dobro - Russ Hicks
Percussion - Si Edwards
Backing Vocals - Barefoot Jerry
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.barefootjerry.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barefoot_Jerry
http://www.tennesseeconcerts.com/barefootjerry.html
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
Another enjoyable album by a group of excellent musicians who don't take themselves too seriously. Whether they're singing about life on the road, Wilma Lou, or breathing new life into classics, it's all done top notch style. I'm real sorry I never got to see the guys live. With as many times as I saw the Tucker boys and the CDB you'd think the Barefoot boys wouldn't be too far behind, but it just never happened.
Good Stuff here, enjoy.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

KERRY LIVGREN / SEEDS OF CHANGE

2008-11-13T23:31:00.003-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1980 on Kirshner Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Kerry Livegren & Brad Aaron
Engineered By: Brad Aaron
Engineering Assistant: Greg Webster
Recorded & Mixed At: Axis Studios, Atlanta, GA.; February / March 1980
Cover Art: Randy South
TRACK LISTING:
Just One Way
Mask Of The Great Deceiver
How Can You Live
Whiskey Seed
To Live For The King
Down To The Core
Ground Zero
THE PLAYERS:
Kerry Livgren - Guitars, Keyboards, Synthesizers, Vocals
Vocals - Jeff Pollard, Ronnie James Dio, Steve Walsh, Myron LeFevre, Davy Moire, David Pack
Drums - Barriemore Barlow, Phil Ehart, John Thompson
Bass - Paul Goddard, Gary Gilbert
Violins - Robbie Steinhardt
Harmonica - Darryl Kutz
Trumpet - Bobby Campo
Percussion - Bobby Campo
Backing Vocals - Jeff Pollard, Mylon LeFevre, John Fristoe, Joey Jelf, Steve Walsh, Donna Williams, Victoria Livgren, Brad Aaron, Davy Moire, Steve Venezia
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.numavox.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerry_Livgren
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proto-Kaw
REVIEWS:
Artistic and Spiritual Integrity, September 14, 2003
By Charles C. Emich (Annapolis, MD United States) - Amazon Customer Review.

"Seeds of Change" remains one of my favorite albums since its release in 1980. Kerry Livgren managed to produce a sound almost devoid of Kansas influence at the zenith of that band's career. His tasteful inclusion of several musicians he always admired unfolded like a well-cast movie. The risk he took in departing from the lengthier opus format for which he was so well known was gutsy, and resulted in underscoring his versatility in writing shorter, more "patatable" tunes.
Mr. Livgren presented his Christian faith with an integrity and honesty often missing in similar efforts. Avoiding the confrontational religious jargon frequently rewarded as "bold" in evangelical circles, he deftly built a tenable bridge to those who might be honestly searching for truth by remaining true to his own intellect and refusing to indulge in divisive, self-indulgent preachiness.
The album is not without controversy. The presence of Ronnie James Deo (at the time, the lead singer of Black Sabbath) troubled some within the Christian community, while its undeniably credible approach to spiritual matters left many unbelievers with a lingering sense of conviction. As a result, the album found itself in a nether-world between the church and the secular communities, with too much unadulterated honesty and too little partisan self-engrandizement to be widely celebrated by a majority in either camp.
None of this should stop anyone from listening to an album with some really good music on it. The subtlety of Mr. Livgren's lyrical approach leaves room for the spiritually unaffilliated to enjoy the material without fear of a forced audio-baptism. Christian listeners, on the other hand, might allow themselves to enjoy the album if they consider that having Ronnie James Deo sing Christian lyrics might be just what the Doctor ordered, and that his presence does not curse the recording or those who listen to it.

=================
Let Me Just Repeat what Was Just Said......

By Yours Truly

None of this should stop anyone from listening to an album with some really good music on it. Bottom line there. Listen without prejudice.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

BAREFOOT JERRY / WATCHIN' TV

2008-11-11T19:49:00.000-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1976 on Monument Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Wayne Moss & Russ Hicks for Pumpkin Productions
Engineered By: Pau Skala & Wayne Moss
Recorded & Mixed At: Cinderella Studio, Madison TN
Cover Art: Gene Wilkes
TRACK LISTING:
Watchin TV (With The Radio On)
Funny Lookin' Eyes
Pig Snoots & Nehi Red
Hay Queen
Two Mile Pike
Faded Love
There Must Be A Better Way
If There Were Only Time For Love
Violets & Daffodils
Mother Nature's Way Of Saying High
THE PLAYERS:
Guitar - Dave Doran, Wayne Moss, Bobby Thompson, Russ Hicks
Steel Guitar - Russ Hicks
Keyboards - Buddy Skipper, John Harris
Bass - Fred Newell, Wayne Moss, Dave Doran, Bobby Thompson
Banjo - Fred Newell
Harmoncia - Fred Newell
Dobro - Russ Hicks
Percussion - Si Edwards, Kenny Malone
Hendersonville Horns - Russ Hicks, Buddy Skipper
Backing Vocals - Barefoot Jerry
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.barefootjerry.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barefoot_Jerry

http://www.tennesseeconcerts.com/barefootjerry.html

REVIEWS:

By Yours Truly

Cmon now, you can't tell me you've never done it....watched TV while listening to music. Back before music videos ruined music that was the way to do it. Most of the time it was a pretty disjointed experience but every once in a while the cosmos would come together and something weird or laughable would happen.

Anyhow, here's another album chock full of excellent pickin and grinin'. Personally I don't find this one as cohesive as "Cant get off with your shoes on" but it's still got some great tracks on it nevertheless.

That's about all I got this time. It's late, I'm sick, need medication and should be in bed. If you liked the last one my money's on the fact you'll probably dig this one too.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

BAREFOOT JERRY / YOU CAN'T GET OFF WITH YOUR SHOES ON

2008-11-09T21:58:00.007-05:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1974 on Monument Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Wayne Moss & Barefoot Jerry for Pumpkin Productions
Engineered By: Pau Skala & Wayne Moss
Recorded & Mixed At: Cinderella Studio, Madison TN
Cover Art: Ken Kim
TRACK LISTING:
Ali Babba
Boogie Woogie
Slowin' Down
You Can't Get Off With Your Shoes On
West Side Of Mississippi
The Measure Of Your Worth
Lucille
Hero Frodo
Sinkin' In The Sea
Cades Cove
THE PLAYERS:
Guitar - Jim Colvard, Wayne Moss, Terry Dearmore
Steel Guitar - Russ Hicks
Piano - Warren Hartman, Wayne Moss
Drums - Si Edwards
Bass - Terry Dearmore, Wayne Moss, Jim Colvard
Clavinet - Warren Hartman
Harmoncia - Terry Dearmore, Charlie McCoy (Boogie Woogie)
Dobro - Russ Hicks
Moog - Warrent Hartman, Wayne Moss
Organ & Mellotron - Warren Hartman
Percussion - Si Edwards, Wayne Moss
Hendersonville Horns - Russ Hicks, Warren Hartman
Backing Vocals - Barefoot Jerry
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.barefootjerry.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barefoot_Jerry

http://www.tennesseeconcerts.com/barefootjerry.html

REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
Like the Atlanta Rhythm Section, who started life as a group of studio musicans that decided to become a band, Barefoot Jerry's history follows the same path. Unlike A.R.S. was Barefoot Jerry's music. Where A.R.S. was more of a Southern Rock n Roll band with Boogie roots, Barefoot Jerry was more a country band with Boogie roots, plus a good sense of humor.

This album, depending on how you count, is either their 3rd or 4th but whatever one it is it is certainly worth owning. There is a ton of excellent pickin and grinin' on this disc and anyone who has a love for 70's country rock will dig this disc repeatedly. For me the high points are, along with the title cut, "Slowin' Down", "The Measure of Your Worth" & Sinkin' In The Sea". The only place in the album that I have to struggle to get thru is "Hero Frodo". I was never into the whole Hobbit thing and since the movies came out I'm into it even less now, but other than this one song, which seems to be out of place on this LP, this album is a work of art that still sounds damn good tonight thanks to excellent production and musicianship all around.

Give this one, or any of the Barefoot Jerry albums a go and see if your feet aren't moving around by the second tune.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

GABE DIXON BAND - GABE DIXON BAND

2008-11-03T12:38:00.011-05:00

Digitized from the original CD, released in 2008 on Fantasy Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Gabe Dixon & Neal Cappelino
Engineered By: Gabe Dixon & Neal Cappelino
Recorded & Mixed At: Blackbird Studios, Nashville, TN.
Cover Art: Henry Diltz
TRACK LISTING:
Disappear
Five More Hours
Further The Sky
All Will Be Well
Find My Way
Till You're Gone
Far From Home
Ever After You
And The World Turned
Sirens
Baby Doll
Further The Sky (reprise)
THE PLAYERS:
Gabe Dixon - Vocals, Keyboards
Winston Harrison - Bass, Mandator
Jano Rix - Drums
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.gabedixonband.com/
REVIEWS:
By Yours Truly
This album is what I would call a very pleasant surprise. I had downloaded it some time ago, but I didn't get around to sitting down and listening to it until about a week and a half ago and it really caught my ear. I stopped what I was doing and started listening in earnest. By the time the first play thru was over I was sold on these guys. I immediately hit replay and started doing a net search on the Gabe Dixon Band. Since then this album has been working overtime in my Ipod and it's to the point now that I've got most of the lyrics memorized and find myself singing along with almost every song.

The Gabe Dixon band is a 3 piece outfit, Keyboards, Bass and Drums and these cats are the real deal, each one a journeyman on their instrument. Gabe Dixon is a classically trained pianist and his chops are amazing. this album is just chock full of wonderful, beautiful melodies, great lyrics and excellent singing. Actually it was his voice that caught my ear first but once I sat down and read thru the lyrics I realized he not only was a great singer but also one helluva songwriter. There are some great upbeat tunes on here that will get rid of a bad day in minutes and some awesome ballads. One in particular, "And the World Turned" really did a number on me emotionally....kinda surprised me.

While the media seems to be treating this album as their first release, it's only their first release on Fantasy records, but their 3rd album overall. I've already read that Gabe is being compared to Elton John and Billy Joel in their early days and there may be some truth to that.....I hear Bruce Hornsby more than Elton or BJ, because the piano playing is more melodically based, but comparisions aside Gabe has his own distinct voice and style that shows itself the more I play this album. After living with this one for a couple days I ordered all 3 of them off the net and now I'm waiting somewhat patiently for the package to arrive.

As luck would have it I found out that Gabe and the boys are going to be playing in Grand Rapids on the 19th of this month as a warm-up act for Mark Broussard, whom I'm not familar with yet, and I have every intention of being up front when he starts pounding on that keyboard. If they're anywhere near as good live as this album then it should be one helluva treat to witness.
Take a listen to the videos I put up and see what ya think.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

Gabe Dixon Band / Till You're Gone

Gabe Dixon Band / Five More Hours

Gabe Dixon Band / All Will Be Well

IAN THOMAS / THE RUNNER

2008-10-28T23:38:00.009-04:00

Digitized from the original Vinyl LP, released in 1981 on Anthem Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Ian Thomas & John Lombardo
Engineered By: Ian Thomas, Greg Roberts & Mick Walsh
Recorded & Mixed At: Grant Avenue Studios, Hamilton, Ontario
Cover Art: Deborah Samuel
TRACK LISTING:
Hold On
Stringin' A Line
Chains
Embers From The Fire
When I Need Someone
Borrowed Time
I Am The One
Goner
Freefall In Stardust
The Runner
THE PLAYERS:
Guitar, Keyboards, Percussion & Vocals: Ian Thomas
Bass: Steve Hogg
Bass (Hold On, Stringin' a Line, Chains & Embers From the Fire): Peter Cardinali
Drums: Jorn Andersen
Keyboards & Background Vocals: Hugh Syme
Percussion: Dick Smith
Saxophone: John Johnson
Guitar: John Zaslow
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.ianthomasband.com/

REVIEWS:

By Yours Truly

The fact that this man has been largely ignored south of the border, that border being Canada, should be a federal crime. I fail to understand how it is that his name is not a household item. Since the early 70's he's been producing at the very least excellent pop / rock music but except for one or maybe two hits he's never even been close to being on the radar in the states.

While this LP is not his best work it's still stands head and shoulders above most everything else that came out in 1981. He released 4 albums during the 80's decade, the last one being Levity, a personal favorite of mine, but this one is still a very enjoyable album and one you should hear if you're an appreciator of the man's talent.

Ian is also responsible for the Boomers who recorded 4 albums between 1991 and 2003. Those 4 albums are simply amazing and after hearing those you can't help but come back to Ian's earlier stuff with a greater appreciation for all his work. My recommendation would be to snatch up anything you can find with Ian's name on it because at the very least it's going to be high quality, whether it's his solo stuff or the Boomers CD's. He's also recently released his second book and is now talking about a new album. I'd say it's about time to that and will be looking forward to what he's got to say if and when that CD hits the stores.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

JAY FERGUSON / TERMS AND CONDITIONS

2008-10-28T22:40:00.014-04:00

Digitized from the original Vinyl LP, released in 1980 on Capitol Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320 kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Jay Ferguson & Michael Verdick
Assistant Engineers: D.C. Snyder, Terry Nelson, James Geddes, Gary Lubow
Recorded At: Sound City, Van Nuys, California; Santa Barbara Sound, Santa Barbara, California
Mixed At: Location Recording Service, Burbank, California
Cover Art: Mitchell Funk
TRACK LISTING:
Love At The Red Line
Modern Girl
This Is Your Life (Take A Little, Take A Lot)
The Last Laugh
Missing Persons
You Should Know Better Than That
Local Color
Hard Enough Being A Man
My Baby's Eyes
The Juggler
THE PLAYERS:
Jay Ferguson - Keyboards, Lead Vocals
Bob Webb - Guitar, Vocals
Robbie Alpert - Keyboards
David White - Bass, Vocals
Curly Smith - Drums
Guests:
Joe Walsh - Guitar
Tony Battaglia - Guitar
Harry Stinson - Vocals
Jim Horn - Recorder, Sax
Terry Nelson - Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jay_Ferguson_(American_Musician)

http://www.bostream.nu/johanb/jay/

REVIEWS:

By Yours Truly

I was a big SPIRIT fan back in the day, remember listening to Mechanical World and Fresh Garbage on a late night underground radio show and picking up their first album not long after that but this isn't Spirit, this is just the voice of Spirit, Jay Ferguson, years later, trying to keep a solo career going.

This LP is another one of those that got lost in the deluge of crap at the beginning of the 80's and while it's not an earth shakingly great album it has enough good music on it to warrant giving it a listen. Others will argue that his earlier solo albums or his Jo Jo Gunne stuff is better than this one but to each his own I guess. I'd say his vocal work in Spirit was his best stuff. There's nothing that jumps right out at me on this disc, but the quality of the tunes is fairly consistent and the production is well done. Jay put out one more solo album in '82 before tossing in the towel on performing and went into writing music for TV. Hey, a guy's gotta make a living and times change. I sometimes wonder if I'd had the courage to pursue the musical career I dreamed of and worked towards where I'd be now and what I'd be doing. Like to think I'd still be out there putting it down, but unless the big guy decides to grant me overs I guess we'll never know........

Rock and Roll kids.

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

ON SECOND THOUGHT.....

2008-10-26T20:07:00.010-04:00

Due to recent events in blogland I've decided to try a different tact that may or may not work, depending on the response I get. Basically it'll be up to you that have visited here in the past and you who are visiting for the first time now how well it works and whether or not I keep it going. Here's how it's gonna work, hope you'll give it a go....
So here you are for the first time and you've found an album (or 2) you'd like to know more about for research purposes. Research purposes are defined as listening to new music in a non-radio format to determine if you like it enough to plunk down your hard earned change to buy a sonically high quality CD copy of the album. This is how I spend my blog time and as a fellow audiophile I'll assume that you do the same....
So, at the end of every post where it used to say DOWNLOAD, it'll now say CONTACT with instructions. What you'll do once you've found something you want more information about is to drop me a line (Email, NOT a comment) saying Hey, Mr. Music Guru (or something else equally cute) I'd really like to know more about [INSERT ALBUM TITLE HERE] by [INSERT PERFORMER NAME HERE]. My Name is [INSERT NAME HERE] BTW.....handles are acceptable if that's how you want to be adressed. I live in [INSERT TOWN, STATE AND COUNTRY HERE]
I'd really like to know what town y'all are from, for you brave souls who aren't overly paranoid, but I'll settle for state and country. This info isn't accumlated so I can use it against you or sell it to someone else......it's to develop a mailing list database of music loving friends just "in case" and world map of visitors ( I have a map fetish).

Once I receive your request with the above info, I'll drop you a line back that will contain the info requested.

You'll only have to play this game the first time through. Once I have your Email addy and name in the data base....the next time you find something that looks interesting all you'll have to do is drop me a line with your request(s) for info and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Sometimes it may be a day or two so patience is a virtue here.

One thing I want to avoid are anonymous requests. If you're too fearful of Big Brother to share your name (or Suitable Handle) then you probably shouldn't be on the net in the first place....you should probably be out in Montana somewhere in a bunker with a 90 day food supply and a butt load of ammo. :-) Of course if you're not from North America you'll have to find a likewise suitable place to hide out in your part of the world.
If this ends up being a bust and no one decides to participate then I'll pull the plug on the blog and move on. No harm, No foul. It's not like this world is gonna miss one little ole blog that was just trying to share some music. The irony here is that if the self proclaimed geniuses in the music biz had gotten off their collective fat asses and did their job at the time and promoted this music when it was new there would be no need for others to do their job now! Can I get a Big DUH! ?
Anyhow, hope to hear from some of ya that I've talked to in the past, feel free to give me your thoughts on this project.

Oh! and if you do have a bunker in Montana, or Idaho for that matter and a little bit of extra room......I don't eat much and I'm a pretty good shot! :-O

Cut & Paste the following into an email, not in the comment section.
Hey, TC

My Name is: [ first and last name, or if you must, your handle.]

I live in [ town or city, (state), country, planet]

I'd like more info on [ Album Title By Performer/Artist/Band]

LOOKS LIKE THE PARTY'S OVER FOR NOW KIDS!

2008-10-23T21:14:00.005-04:00

So much for my big plans this winter eh?

Looks like some schmuck had to get the goons involved instead of just writing me and asking for the offending link to be removed.

I'm not entirely sure what I'm going to do at this point but I'd suggest you grab what you want pretty quick now cuz I'll more than likely kill this blog in the near future so I don't lose my other blogs due to another attack of anonomous terriorism. If I can find the time and garner up the enthusiasm I may move the whole mess to my own website. You'll have to have my main page addy to check in on that. I find it amazing that they've targeted me with some of the other sites I see out there in my travels but hey, just my luck I guess.........Stay in touch folks and keep yer eyes open.....you never know what might be coming down......

Tc
=================================================
Blogger has been notified, according to the terms of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), that certain content in your blog infringes upon the copyrights of others. The URL(s) of the allegedly infringing post(s) may be found at the end of this message.
The notice that we received, with any personally identifying information removed, will be posted online by a service called Chilling Effects at http://www.chillingeffects.org/. We do this in accordance with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Please note that it may take Chilling Effects up to several weeks to post the notice online at the link provided.
The DMCA is a United States copyright law that provides guidelines for online service provider liability in case of copyright infringement. We are in the process of removing from our servers the links that allegedly infringe upon the copyrights of others. If we did not do so, we would be subject to a claim of copyright infringement, regardless of its merits. See http://www.educause.edu/Browse/645?PARENT_ID=254 for more information about the DMCA, and see http://www.google.com/dmca.html for the process that Blogger requires in order to make a DMCA complaint.
Blogger can reinstate these posts upon receipt of a counter notification pursuant to sections 512(g)(2) and 3) of the DMCA. For more information about the requirements of a counter notification and a link to a sample counter notification, see http://www.google.com/dmca.html#counter.
Please note that repeated violations to our Terms of Service may result in further remedial action taken against your Blogger account. If you have legal questions about this notification, you should retain your own legal counsel. If you have any other questions about this notification, please let us know.
Sincerely,
The Blogger Team
Affected URLs:
http://tcsoldnewmusicreview.blogspot.com/2008/06/ambrosia-1975-to-1982.html

B.T.O. / STREET ACTION

2008-10-14T23:14:00.009-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1978 on Mercury Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320Kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: B.T.O.
Engineered By: Rolf Hennemann, Jeff Tolman
Recorded At: Can Base Studios, Vancouver, B.C. Canada
Cover Art: James Omara
TRACK LISTING:
I'm In Love
Down The Road
Takes A Lot of People
A Long Time For A Little While
Street Action
For Love
Madison Avenue
You're Gonna Miss Me
The World Is Waiting For A Love Song
THE BAND:
C.F. Turner - Guitar, Vocals
Rob Bachmn - Drums, Percussion
Blair Thornton - Guitar
Jim Clench - Bass, Vocals
Guests:
John Hall - Keyboards on I'm In Love
Tom Keenlyside - Sax on Madison Avenue
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.btorocks.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachman-Turner_Overdrive
http://hem.passagen.se/re1/bto.html

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
Here's an album by a band that most everybody out there has heard of. Just to prove that it Doesn't have to be way out by the left field fence to get on this blog I thought I'd put this one up for a bit of a change of pace. Back in the 70's these boys were a good rock and roll band and like a lot of folks I bought the first 2 releases. After the first two I lost interest though and didn't pay much attention until a friend played this release for me not long after it came out and I found that I really liked it.

It's funny to me that what has become my favorite album of theirs doesn't include the band's namesake, Randy Bachman, who'd wandered off to do a solo album. While I think this is a solid album of basic 70's rock and roll my particular favs are "A long time for a little while, Madison Avenue & The World is Waiting for a love song". It doesn't seem this album has gotten much attention in the music blog world so I thought I'd do my part and share my favorite B.T.O. album. Rock on kids!

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

TRANQUILITY / TRANQUILITY

2008-10-12T23:24:00.003-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1972 on Epic Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320Kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Ashley Kozak, A Zacko Production
Engineered By: Keith Harwood
Recorded At: Olympic Sound Studios, London, England
Cover Art: Mishi
TRACK LISTING:
Try Again
Ride Upon The Sun
Where You Are (Where I Belong)
Look At The Time, It's Late
Lady Of The Lake
Wak Along The Road
Thank You
Oyster Catcher
Black Current Betty
Happy Is The Man
Saying Good-Bye
THE BAND:
Terry Shaddick - Lead Vocals, Lead Guitar
Tony Lukyn - Keyboards, Vibes, Mellatron, Backing Vocals
Berkeley Wright - Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Kevin McCarthy - Rhythm Guitar, Backing Vocals
Bernard Hagley - Bass
Paul Francis - Drums Percussion
Guests:
Jim Leverton - Bass
John Perry - Bass
Eric Dillon - Drums, Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.vanityfare.co.uk/tranq.htm

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
And this is the first album of 2 that this band put out. After listening to both these albums a 100 times or more I still can't decide If I have a favorite one. They both have their low points and high points but this one, being their debut effort is pretty impressive on the first play.

As I said previously, listening to this album you'll find a mix of eclectic songs all tied together with excellent musicianship and fantastic vocals and harmonies. It's just beautiful upbeat music that soothes the soul.

Trying to describe their music is difficult. They really have a pretty unique sound which I'm sure would've gotten better with time but if I had to call it something I guess I'd go with Folk Prog....how's that? Give it a listen and then tell me what you think.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

TRANQUILITY / SILVER

2008-10-08T23:20:00.008-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1972 on Epic Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320Kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Ashley Kozak, A Zacko Production
Engineered By: Mike Ross
Recorded At: CBS Studios, Whitfield Steet, London, England
Cover Art: Bob Schulenberg
TRACK LISTING:
Eagle Eye
Can I See You
Linda
Whip Wheel
The Driver's Engine
Couldn't Possibly Be
Nice And Easy
Dear Oh Dear
Silver
The Tree
THE BAND:
Terry Shaddick - Lead Vocals, Lead Guitar
Tony Lukyn - Keyboards, Vibes, Mellatron, Backing Vocals, Lead Vocals On "Linda"
Berkeley Wright - Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Kevin McCarthy - Rhythm Guitar, Backing Vocals, Lead Vocal on "The Driver's Engine"
Bernard Hagley - Bass, Flute
Paul Francis - Drums Percussion
WEBSITE(S):
http://www.vanityfare.co.uk/tranq.htm

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
This is the second album of 2 that this band put out before giving it up and heading off to find their life's work somewhere else. Like so many of the bands that were fighting to make a go of it in the 70's Tranquility had the bad luck of many and were never in the right place at the right time to get their message out. On top of bad luck they had a sound that was not easy to pigeon hole and this no doubt made a tough situation even tougher.

Listening to this album you'll find a mix of eclectic songs all tied together with excellent musicianship and fantastic vocals and harmonies. I'm not sure now what made me pick this one up and bring it home way back then, but I'm certainly glad I did. It's certainly a gem, along with the first album, in my record collection.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

ROSS / THE PIT AND THE PENDULUM

2008-10-07T23:11:00.006-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1975 on RSO Records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 256Kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Bruce Botnick by arrangement with The Robert Stigwood Organization
Recorded & Mixed By: Rik Pekkonen
Engineered By: Anton Mathews & Gerry Leach
Recorded At: Hollywood Sound Recorders
Cover Art: Ken Marcus
TRACK LISTING:
Swallow Your Dreams
Gotta Get It Right Back
Madness In Memories
Standing Alone
Discovery
Now I See
So Slow
The Edge
Nearer And Nearer
Free
I've Been Waiting
Oh, I'm Happy Now
THE BAND:
Alan Ross - Lead Vocals, Guitars & Filing Cabinet
Steve Emery - Bass and Vocals
Bob Jackson - Keyboards, Vocals, String Machine
Tony Fernandez - Drums, Percussion
Reuben White - Percussion
String Orchestration By: Jack Nitzsche
WEBSITE(S):
Nothing in an "official" capacity, but another Alan Ross fan sent me a link to his page on Alan.
Thanks Walid!
http://lowando.tripod.com/alanross.html

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
It's been awhile since I put up the first Ross album and I've been meaning to put this one up for awhile now. So at last here it is in somewhat used condition. I apologise for the snap, crackle and pop that is audible in places but it got played back in the day.

I never really been "big" on concept albums but this one is done so well musically that I let the concept thing slide I spent awhile searching the net for info again but there's next to nothing out there although I did find a yahoo on Ebay with a copy of the first Ross album that he'd be happy to sell to you for the small sum of $250.00!! Just say No kids! I also found the other two Alan Ross Band albums that I don't have in the U.K. but again the prices are more than I can afford to pay these days.

At any rate this is an enjoyable album. If you downloaded and enjoyed the first one I'd be willing to bet that you'd dig this one too and when I break down and buy that new Ion turntable with the noise suppression software I'll redo this one and send snap, crackle and pop packin'.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

SUGARLOAF - SPACESHIP EARTH

2008-10-06T23:50:00.009-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1970 on Liberty records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 256kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Frank Slay & J.C. Phillips for Chicory Productions
Engineered By: Paul Buff, Bob Kovach & Ken Nelson
Recorded At: ?
Cover Art - Joel Franklin
TRACK LISTING:
Spaceship Earth
Hot Water
Rusty Cloud
I Don't Need You Baby
Rollin' Hills
Mother Nature's Wine
Country Dawg
Woman
Music Box
Tongue In Cheek
THE BAND:
Jerry Corbetta - Lead Vocals, Keyboards, Chimes
Bob Webber - Vocals, Guitar, Dobro
Bob Raymond - Vocals, Bass
Bob McVittie - Drums
Robert Yeazel - Lead Vocals, Guitar, Bells, Harmonica
Guests
Glenn Grab - Cello on Music Box
Joe Julian - Viola on Music Box
WEBSITE:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Corbetta
http://www.bobyeazel.com/Hyperlinks.htm
http://www.classicrockallstars.com/flash.html

REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
Sugarloaf was a Colorado based band that was built originally around the keyboard and leadership of Jerry Corbetta. They had a smash hit called Green Eyed Lady that was the anchor for their first album. However, somewhere between the first album and this one, the second, they added another member by the name of Robert Yeazel who is mostly the one responsible for this album. He has at least co-writer credits for every song on the album and sole credit for most of them along with distinctive singing and lead guitar work.

This is one of the first, if not the first ecologically based albums and was dedicated to F. Buckminster Fuller's book Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth. While the tone of this album is decidedly eco-based there are a few tunes that don't follow that theme. Overall though this was / is an above average album for 1970. When I play it nowadays yes, it does sound a bit dated but jeez in 1970 most of us were still watching TV on black and white sets too so to put things in the proper perspective....this is an album worth adding to your collection for the simple reason of it's early on eco-status but also because there is a lot of good playing on this album and I woudn't be a bit surprised if you play it more than once or twice and find yourself singing along with the boys in the band.

Put on your bellbottoms, crank up the volume and take a trip back damn near 40 years ago.

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

BILL LORDAN / A CONNECTION FROM THE PAST TO THE PRESENT

2008-10-05T03:39:00.009-04:00

Sorry for not posting much lately, I've been fighting a monster cold for the last couple weeks and dealing with alot of real life crap too so the energy levels are kinda low, but not to worry, there's plenty of stuff in the pipe that I'll be posting in the months ahead.

In the meantime...I discovered an album myself, on a blog that I frequent, that kinda connects with my most recent shares here. Bill Lordan, the drummer on the Gypsy albums I posted, went on with his career after the demise of Gypsy and not long after I found him playing with Robin Trower, where he stayed for a time. Now here it is 2008 and I'm surfing for new music like you and what do I see but "Drummer - Bill Lordan". Well, the blurb with the share sounded good, loved the title and the album cover and with Bill playing drums I decided to hit the rapidshare button and give it a go. Turns out that was a good idea cuz this album pretty much kicks butts and takes names. Not only is the drumming top notch but Chris Aaron is an above average guitar picker. If you like what I'll call Blues / Rock then I'd recommend giving this album a try and see what ya think. I like it enough that I ordered the CD from amazon to add to my collection.

Rock on boys and girls everywhere......

Tom

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

GYPSY / UNLOCK THE GATES

2008-09-30T22:22:00.010-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1973 on RCA records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Jacl Richardson & Jim Mason for Nimbus 9 Productions
Engineered By: Brian Christian, Dennis Smith
Recorded At: RCA Studios, Hollywood, California
TRACK LISTING:
Is That News?
Make Peace With Jesus
One Step Away
Bad Whore (The Machine)
Unlock The Gates
Toin’ It
Need You Baby
Smooth Operator
Don’t Get Mad (Get Even)
Precious One
THE BAND:
James "Owl" Walsh - Vocals, Keyboards
Enrico Rosenbaum - Vocals, Guitars
Bill "Sweet William" Lordan - Drums, Gong
James C. Johnson - Vocals, Lead Guitar
Randy Cates - Bass
WEBSITE:
http://www.midwesttribute.com/history.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gypsy_(band
http://www.gypsy-queen.net/
REVIEW:
By Yours Truly
This is the 4th and final album with this line-up of musiciains. There was another album, later on in the 70's that had James Johnson and a bunch of new faces, but I just got never get behind that one.
If you compared this album with the 1st Gyspy release you'd think it was a different band. This is a band that evolved with each release and this last one was no doubt an attempt to get some mainstream attention from a mostly deaf public. It's an album full of short, tight arrangements and there's probably 5 or 6 tunes on here that could've been big hits in the right place and time. Unfortunately for this band, right place and time never seemed to happen.
From the opening measures of Is That News to the last awesome chords of Precious One this album is an example production perfection. It's a real treat to listen to this one at a decent volume thru headphones. Everything is so clear and crisp, so balanced that it's a joy to listen to.
Although I love every song on this one I can tell you that the last two songs alone are worth the time it'll take to download it and get it in your Itunes......Don't Get Mad has a great jazzy groove to it and great vocals with those amazing gypsy harmonies. If I ever had a band I'd do this tune and it'd last for 25 minutes while everyone takes a solo. Then there's Precious One. As the last song on their last album....what a way to go out. To this day this is one of the most awesome arrangements I've ever heard....not sure why it has such an effect on me, but for a 4 minute tune they've packed in a whole album's worth of talent and emotion.
Enjoy.

Tom
CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

GYPSY / ANTITHESIS

2008-09-24T21:45:00.007-04:00

Digitized from the original vinyl, released in 1972 on RCA records.
Format: Mp3
Bit Rate: 320kbps
ALBUM INFO:
Produced By: Jacl Richardson & Jim Mason for Nimbus 9 Productions
Engineered By: Brian Christian, Dennis Smith
Recorded At: RCA's Music Center of The World, Hollywood, California, July 3rd - 9th 1972
TRACK LISTING:
Crusader
Day After Day
The Creeper
Facing Time
Lean On Me
Young Gypsy
Don't Bother Me
Travelin' Minnesota Blues
So Many Promises
Antithesis (Keep Your Faith)
Edgar (Don't Hoover Over Me)
Money
THE BAND:
James "Owl" Walsh - Vocals, Keyboards
Enrico Rosenbaum - Vocals, Guitars
Bill "Sweet William" Lordan - Drums, Gong
James C. Johnson - Vocals, Lead Guitar
Randy Cates - Bass
WEBSITE:
http://www.midwesttribute.com/history.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gypsy_(band
http://www.gypsy-queen.net/
REVIEW:
WOW, July 20, 2003
By "hulkisangry" (San Antonio) - (Amazon Customer Review)

All of the Gypsy titles are some of the best music ever produced and you never heard of them. Tsk Tsk. This band had a lot of bad luck to blame for that. I grew up in St. Louis where they were a cult favorite. Buy this album and buy the first self titled album and also 'In the garden' and you Wont only Not go wrong, youll be shaking your head and wondering whats wrong with the world that youve never heard this. All 3 albums are timeless masterpieces that Id take with me on that deserted island after all the nukes were dropped to preserve and play for future civilizations who thanks to me will think this is what Rock is all about instead of aerosmith.

==================

By Yours Truly

LOL! well yeah, that guy has kinda got it right. This is a great album. Their first one on a Major label and if anybody had been paying attention this one should've broke it open for them, but once again mainstream radio failed to do their job.

Some Gypsy fans complain that on this album Gypsy lost their "prog" status because instead of longer pieces there are 12 short and to the point, arrangement wise, tunes that in my opinion for the most part kick ass. I love prog rock, but I also love a tight arrangement that moves along like a well oiled machine and the tunes here within glide along nicely. There's no sense really to taking 10 minutes to say what can be said in 4 if you know how to say it.

I've got some personal favs here, Day By Day, The Creeper, Facing Time, Antithesis, but there's not one on here that I think lowers the overall quality of the album. On this album their sound continues to evolve and just get better and better.

CONTACT:

READ THIS for more information on this album.

CHERYL WHEELER / DISCOGRAPHY AND VIDEOS

2008-09-23T22:47:00.013-04:00

This is one of those non-typical blog entries where I tell you about a great find, but don't share any albums. Instead, I'm sharing some embeded Youtube clips and her discography and my hope is that by the time you're done viewing the videos you'll feel the need to explore further and buy a CD or two.

I "met" Cheryl at the Wheatland Music Festival the first weekend in September, just a few weeks ago, so I don't have years of devoted listening time invested and can't really tell you what my favorite songs are just yet, but I can tell you that the last time I saw a sole performer with nothing more than a chair and a guitar that made such an impression on me was back in 1974 when I had the honor of seeing Dan Fogelberg for the first time as opening act for the Eagles.

What impressed me so much about Cheryl was the fact that she had the complete package. She can sing wonderfully with loads of expression, she definitely knows her way around the neck of a guitar and, as I'm discovering every day right now, she has amassed a body of work that is both lyrically and melodically beautiful. Along with all that talent she's also funny as hell in person. At Wheatland she had folks laughing one minute and reflective the next. It was quite an experience. As you may have figured out by now I'm a new fan, but an enthusiastic fan and with all the music I listen to it just amazes me that I've managed to miss her 20+ year career until recently.

Take a couple minutes and listen to the videos and see if there's anything there that strikes a nerve. If there is then stop by her website and check it out, if not, well then, not everybody likes chocolate either, but at least I tried....

Cheryl Wheeler - Little Kids

DEFYING GRAVITY - 2004
Since You've Been Gone
Little Road
Must Be Sinking Now
Beyond The Lights
Summer's Almost Over
Defying Gravity
Clearwater, Florida
Here Come Floyd
Alice
This Is Me
It's The Phone
On The Plane
Blessed

DIFFERENT STRIPE - 2002
Northern Girl
Arrow
Walk Around Downtown
Moonlight And Roses
Gandi / Buddha
When Fall Comes To New England
Quarter Moon
Aces
Hard Line To Draw
Almost
Addicted
So Far To Fall
Don't Wanna
Miss You More Than I'm Mad
Sylvia Hotel
Who Am I Foolin'?
75 Septembers
Further And Further Away
One Love

SLYVIA HOTEL - 1999
His Hometown
But The Days And Nights Are Long
If It Were Up To Me
Right Way To Do The Wrong Thing
All The Live Long Day
Sylvia Hotel
Unworthy
Rainy Road To Atlanta
LIghting Up The Mighty Mississippi
Potato
Meow
Who Am I Foolin'?

MRS. PINOCCI'S GUITAR - 1995
Mrs Pinocci's Guitar
Does The Future Look Black
School Girls
T.V.
The Rivers
Further And Further Away
Is It Peace Or Is It Prozac?
Howl At The Moon
The Storm
So Far To Fall
Makes Good Sense To Me
Piper
Time Taketh Away
One Love

Cheryl Wheeler - One Love

DRIVING HOME - 1993
Driving Home
Silver Lining
Music In My Room
Frequently Wrong But Never In Doubt
Don't Forget The Guns
Act Of Nature
75 Septembers
Spring
Bad Connection
When Fall Comes To New England
Orbiting Jupiter
Almost

CIRCLES AND ARROWS - 1991
I know This Town
Hard Line To Draw
Aces
Estate Sale
Don't Wanna
Northern Girl
As Soon As I Find My Voice
Miss You More Than I'm Mad
Moonlight And Roses
When You're Gone
Arrow

Cheryl Wheeler - Aces

HALF A BOOK - 1990
Emotional Response
I Don't Have The Time
I Don't Reach You Anymore
Tell Him Goodbye
In Your Heart
Rainin'
Half A Book
I See You Eyes
Thinkin' Of Leavin'
Summer Fly
Piper

CHERYL WHEELER- 1986
Gmme The Right Sign
Invisible Lady
Addicted
Lethal Detective
Behind The Barn
Paradise In Troubled Waters
Your Radio's Up Too Loud
Game Of Love
Quarter Moon
Same Old Game
Arrow

Cheryl Wheeler - Arrow

...And if that wasn't enough for you then check out this one last YouTube video that I couldn't embed. If you bruise easily in a political sense though you may want to skip it.........

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvakdl24Vzc

Cheryl's Website: http://www.cherylwheeler.com/