It’s an amazing story that couldn’t possibly be made up in anyone’s wild imagination: A dental hygienist who recorded a psychedelic folk bum (Parallelograms) back in 1970 that didn’t go anywhere but gradually became a cult classic. Continue reading CD Review: Linda Perhacs
Before tribute concerts to legendary artists became the norm, the gold standard was the one held for Bob Dylan at Madison Square Garden back in 1992, what was then the 30th anniversary of his first album for Columbia Records. Continue reading CD Review: Bob Dylan
After the underwhelming Kill Uncle album 1991, Morrissey rebounded the following year in a huge way with Your Arsenal, undoubtedly the former Smiths frontman’s best solo album. Continue reading CD Review: Morrissey
Playing electric guitar on Bob Dylan’s iconic track “Like a Rolling Stone” had already ensured Michael Bloomfield’s musical legacy – but that historic session only tells part of his story. Continue reading CD Review: Michael Bloomfield
John Cale
Shifty Adventures in Nookie Wood
Double Six
By David Chiu
Forty-five years since stamping his reputation on the Velvet Underground’s landmark debut record, The Velvet Underground and Nico, John Cale continues to compose and craft music that is in the vein of art rock. His excellent new album, Shifty Adventures in Nookie Wood, sounds fresh and dynamic Continue reading “CD Review: John Cale”
Ben Folds Five
The Sound of the Life of the Mind
Imaveepee Records/Sony Music
By David Chiu
After a 13-year recording hiatus, Ben Folds Five –Ben Folds, Robert Sledge and Darren Jessee– returns with a fine new effort in The Sound of the Life of the Mind. Reunion albums are sometimes a tricky deal, but this comeback record from the trio is a return to form. Continue reading “CD Review: Ben Folds Five”
The Beach Boys
50 Big Ones: Greatest Hits
Capitol/EMI
by David Chiu
As the title indicates, this 2-CD set collects 50 of the Beach Boys best known hits, fitting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the legendary band, whose original members reunited for a tour. It’s really THE compilation of all compilations Continue reading “CD Review: The Beach Boys”
Freddie Mercury
The Great Pretender (DVD)
Eagle Vision
By David Chiu
One of the greatest singers in rock and roll history, Queen’s Freddie Mercury lived life to the utmost heights through his trademark extravagance and flamboyance. But offstage, Mercury was very private and shy– as told in a new documentary about the singer directed by Rhys Thomas. Continue reading “DVD Review: Freddie Mercury”
Michael Jackson
Bad25
Epic/Legacy
By David Chiu
Bad, Michael Jackson’s 1987 album, had the big task of being the follow-up to the massively popular Thriller five years earlier. While it certainly doesn’t measure up to Thriller (in essence, what does?), Bad became hugely successful in its own right, with five Number One singles, an impressive feat at the time. Continue reading “CD Review: Michael Jackson”
Roxy Music
The Complete Studio Recordings
Virgin/EMI
By David Chiu
They may not have achieved greater popularity in the States during their career, but Roxy Music were certainly one the most unique bands to come out the ‘70s. Like David Bowie, the band, led by the dapper Bryan Ferry, was ahead of its time as far as the music and visual look that was both a nod to the past and what the future might be. Over the course of 10 years and eight albums, Roxy’s output progressed from its avant garde/art rock beginnings, to smooth romantic pop. It’s now collected in this new boxed set celebrating the 40th anniversary of the band’s self-titled debut, showing why Roxy still continues to influence generations of rockers. Continue reading “CD Review: Roxy Music”
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