Album Reviews

Dingler smoothly fuses Ethiopian musical traditions with jazz, while Torres's winning new album is a feast for both heart and mind.

Concord Music assembled this blast of classic gospel from the 1950s and '60s expressly to show the direct and multifaceted influence of gospel music on secular soul and rock 'n' roll. In addition to its historical and musicological interest, it's pure enjoyment any old way (but if you have a record player, get the 3-LP vinyl edition.)

It's a touching story set to musical scores that mirror the emotions expressed in the lyrics.

Traditional Hanukkah songs are reimagined in a big band production with 1940s-style swing.

RK Dawkins offers a pleasing escape from the burdens of reality for audiences.

Rose Fingered Dawn, concentrates on telling the stories behind the lyrics, desiring to touch listeners emotions.

'For Those Who Came Before: Songs of Resistance from the Spanish Civil War' from Barbez and Velina Brown, is an amazing example of how music over 80 years old can not only be relevant today, but sound just as exciting and stirring as it did when originally written.

Giacchino creates another stellar musical score where he holds his own compared to others in the film series (Danny Elfman, James Horner, Christopher Young, etc.).

By any means, 'Shade' is an impressive achievement that few bands 30 years into their career can ever hope to achieve. It may not replace their classic releases, but it absolutely belongs right next to them.

Another set of relaxed moderate rock, with a bit of country and balladry, from the 77-year-old drummer.