Album Reviews

Much of Jethro Tull's second album still stands up, so to speak. The bright nasality of the hyperactive mandolin on "Fat Man," the blues-rock/progressive fusion of "Nothing is Easy," and the dark psychedelia of "We Used to Know" are all of their time, yet in the new mixes they leap urgently from the speakers. A 1969 Stockholm concert and a booklet packed with reminiscences and commentary help make this new edition something Tull fans will value.

Beyond shining elements that defined Summer gems like “Bad Girls,” “Last Dance,” and “I Feel Love" lie many overlooked treasures.

On a fizzy mix of traditional jazz (mostly originals) and standards (Gershwin, Cole Porter, Fats Waller), bebop, and classical and romantic piano music by the likes of Mozart, Chopin, and Ravel, the pianist and her trio take enormous joy in finding surprising connections.

A purveyor of songs that touch the heart's yearnings, Audrey Silver will serenade listeners and put them in the mood to enjoy the world around them.

The songs within this collection are contemporary musical environments crafted from rhythm, synthesis, natural sounds, and voices all meticulously assembled by trombone player Michael Lake.

More than 20 years into its professional recording career, the Deftones are still killing the (alt-metal) competition - 'Gore' slays, and it features Alice in Chains guitar wizard Jerry Cantrell. Need I say more?

A wonderful trip down memory lane.

Here are my highlights in popular music from 2016. It includes records by Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Bright Light Bright Light, David Bowie, Melanie C, Hikaru Utada, Beyoncé, and many more!

If 'Blue Mountain' represents a new, more prolific era for this music legend, Weir fans of all stripes have a lot to look forward to. Even if he takes another 16 years to complete another album, listeners can take comfort in the rich tones of this mature work. Now more than ever, the world needs the comforting, self-assured songs of Bob Weir.

On top of a capacious talent, the Bulgarian-born, New York-based pianist has a distinctive sensibility evidenced by her choice of repertoire, which encompasses works by composers from her homeland as well as contemporary new music and her own compositions.