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On Wednesday night, I correctly predicted that the Boston Blitz would defeat the New England Nor'Easters. To the contrary, there was definitely luck involved as I only got 1/4 game predictions right:)
We are getting to the end of the road of the 2012 USCL Season!
The Match that May Determine who will the 2012 USCL Eastern Division Champions: The Philadelphia Inventors vs the New York Knights
GM Erenburg- GM Kacheishvili 1/2-1/2
GM Gelashvili- SM Fisher 1-0
FM Gorman- SM Herman 0-1
Checa- IM Costigan 0-1
and New York Will Surpass Philly in the USCL Standings- NY Wins 2.5-1.5
The First Date Between the New Jersey Knockouts and the Connecticut Dreadnoughts
GM Stripunsky- GM Hess 1/2-1/2
GM Kekelidze- GM Benjamin 1/2-1/2
IM Kappengut- Harris 1-0
Chandran- Balaskrishnan 1-0
and we shall see a Drawn Match 2-2
25 Şubat 2013 Pazartesi
Rabin Predicts the Results of The End of the Western Division's 2012 USCL Regular Season
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I did a very poor job for last Friday's rare USCL action, getting 0/2 match and 2/8 game predictions correct. Let's see how I do tomorrow night for the end of the Western Division's regular season tomorrow night!
It is now once upon a time in the West!
Two Teams That Secured Playoff Spots Duke it Out: The 1st Place Dallas Destiny vs the 2nd Place Saint Louis Arch Bishops
The Dallas Destiny doesn't have all that much to play for as they secured clear first place; however the Saint Louis Arch Bishops has to win or at least draw to maintain its second place position.
IM Holt- GM Diamant 1-0
IM Kannappan- IM Wang 1-0
Gater- IM Bregadze 0-1
Hendrickson- Guenther 1-0
and Saint Louis will Likely Secure Second Place (depending how Seattle does), Saint Louis Wins 3-1
Two of the Teams that are Eliminated from Playoff Contention Bring Sub-2300 Lineups: The San Francisco Mechanics vs the Miami Sharks
IM Naroditsky- GM Becerra 1/2-1/2
Recio- FM Liou 0-1
FM Lee- Rosenthal 1-0
Salisbury- Ebrahimi 1-0 I don't know either of these players but I looked at their MSA pages and while Ebrahimi has been consistent in the 1800s, Salisbury is on a sharp rise, having made expert recently.
and a weak San Francisco Team shall defeat a weak Miami team, San Francisco wins 2.5-1.5
The Arizona Scorpions Who May with a Little Luck Rise to 3rd Place vs the Potentially Spoiling Carolina Cobras
IM Molner- IM Schroer- 1-0 a draw is the second most likely result!
FM Simpson- IM Altounian 0-1 Altounian will handle a lot of Simpson's complications and simplify to get the full point!
IM Ginsburg- Jones 1-0
Timmel- Martinez 1/2-1/2
and for a change, I won't take any margin of error! Arizona Shall win 3.5-.5!
The Los Angeles Vibe Shall Attempt to Maintain its Lifetime Record against the Seattle Sluggers (Current Score 2-1)
I give LA a lot of credit for utilizing a strong 2400+ lineup, even though they are already eliminated from playoff contention. To be honest, it's a little disappointing that some of the other teams sort of threw in the towel, brining subpar lineups.
IM Amanov- FM Mikhailuk 1-0
FM Milat- IM Kiewra 1-0 Milat won their 2010 encounter with the black pieces. Kiewra is definitely stronger now with a higher rating and IM title, but my instincts tell me Milat will win again!
FM Kavutskiy- FM Collyer 1/2-1/2
Sinanan- FM Yanayt 1-0
and we shall see Seattle Win 2.5-1.5
It is now once upon a time in the West!
Two Teams That Secured Playoff Spots Duke it Out: The 1st Place Dallas Destiny vs the 2nd Place Saint Louis Arch Bishops
The Dallas Destiny doesn't have all that much to play for as they secured clear first place; however the Saint Louis Arch Bishops has to win or at least draw to maintain its second place position.
IM Holt- GM Diamant 1-0
IM Kannappan- IM Wang 1-0
Gater- IM Bregadze 0-1
Hendrickson- Guenther 1-0
and Saint Louis will Likely Secure Second Place (depending how Seattle does), Saint Louis Wins 3-1
Two of the Teams that are Eliminated from Playoff Contention Bring Sub-2300 Lineups: The San Francisco Mechanics vs the Miami Sharks
IM Naroditsky- GM Becerra 1/2-1/2
Recio- FM Liou 0-1
FM Lee- Rosenthal 1-0
Salisbury- Ebrahimi 1-0 I don't know either of these players but I looked at their MSA pages and while Ebrahimi has been consistent in the 1800s, Salisbury is on a sharp rise, having made expert recently.
and a weak San Francisco Team shall defeat a weak Miami team, San Francisco wins 2.5-1.5
The Arizona Scorpions Who May with a Little Luck Rise to 3rd Place vs the Potentially Spoiling Carolina Cobras
IM Molner- IM Schroer- 1-0 a draw is the second most likely result!
FM Simpson- IM Altounian 0-1 Altounian will handle a lot of Simpson's complications and simplify to get the full point!
IM Ginsburg- Jones 1-0
Timmel- Martinez 1/2-1/2
and for a change, I won't take any margin of error! Arizona Shall win 3.5-.5!
The Los Angeles Vibe Shall Attempt to Maintain its Lifetime Record against the Seattle Sluggers (Current Score 2-1)
I give LA a lot of credit for utilizing a strong 2400+ lineup, even though they are already eliminated from playoff contention. To be honest, it's a little disappointing that some of the other teams sort of threw in the towel, brining subpar lineups.
IM Amanov- FM Mikhailuk 1-0
FM Milat- IM Kiewra 1-0 Milat won their 2010 encounter with the black pieces. Kiewra is definitely stronger now with a higher rating and IM title, but my instincts tell me Milat will win again!
FM Kavutskiy- FM Collyer 1/2-1/2
Sinanan- FM Yanayt 1-0
and we shall see Seattle Win 2.5-1.5
Rabin's Predictions for the End of the USCL's Eastern Divsion's 2012 Season!!
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I finished predicting the Western Division's 2012 season with a bang, getting 3/4 matches and 11/16 match predictions correct. There were two last minute lineup changes that I did not account for ( Byambaa playing for SF instead of Ebrahimi and Mu playing for Carolina instead of Simpson). My stats are actually on the conservative side as I truthfully would have probably predicted Byambaa to beat Salisbury and Altounian to beat Mu. To the contrary, both games were draws.
Tomorrow night will be a very exciting end to the Eastern Division's as seven out of eight are still in playoff contention. See http://uschessleague.com/wp/2012/11/06/eastern-division-playoff-scenarios/ for a summary of playoff scenarios. Let's see what the results shall be!!
As three of the seven surviving teams will be eliminated, we shall definitiely see some stiff competition tomorrow night!
The Potentially Spoiling New England Nor'easters vs the Likely-to-be 2012 USCL Eastern Division Champions, the Philadelphia Inventors
GM Ivanov- GM Erenburg 1/2-1/2
FM Bartell- IM Vigorito 1-0 In 2010, they drew when Vigorito was white. In 2008, Bartell won with the white pieces.. I think he'll win again!
Theil- Gorman 1/2-1/2 While Gorman has been on fire lately, Theil hasn't played in the USCL since 2010's Week 10. While part of me wants to say Gorman will win, I think Theil will keep things solid with the white pieces.
Daly- Goldberg 0-1
and Philadelphia will be secured the first place spot in the East! Drawn Match 2-2
The Connecticut Dreadnoughts Needs to Defeat the Manhattan Applesauce to Have a Good Chance to Make the Playoffs!
GM Hess- IM Vovsha 1-0
IM Schneider- GM Kekelidze 0-1
IM Sarkar- IM Milman 1/2-1/2
Smith- Tanenbaum 1-0
and both teams will likely make the playoffs; Connecticut Wins 2.5-1.5
Two Teams Near the Middle of the Pack Duke it Out for Playoff Spots: The New Jersey Knockouts vs the New York Knights
GM Stripunsky- GM Gelashvili 1/2-1/2
SM Herman- GM Gulko 0-1
FM Shen- FM Bodek 0-1
Katz- Burke 1-0
and NY will end NJ's 2012 USCL Season! NY Wins 2.5-1.5
The Baltimore Kingfishers and the Boston Blitz Shall Fight to the Bitter End for A Potential Seat in the Playoffs
GM Margelashvili- Shmelov 1-0
FM Gulamali- GM Kaufman 0-1
Defibaugh- Matirosov 0-1
Krasik- Zimmer 1-0
and a Drawn 2-2 Match will make Baltimore's playoff hopes tiny and Boston's absolutely none!
Tomorrow night will be a very exciting end to the Eastern Division's as seven out of eight are still in playoff contention. See http://uschessleague.com/wp/2012/11/06/eastern-division-playoff-scenarios/ for a summary of playoff scenarios. Let's see what the results shall be!!
As three of the seven surviving teams will be eliminated, we shall definitiely see some stiff competition tomorrow night!
The Potentially Spoiling New England Nor'easters vs the Likely-to-be 2012 USCL Eastern Division Champions, the Philadelphia Inventors
GM Ivanov- GM Erenburg 1/2-1/2
FM Bartell- IM Vigorito 1-0 In 2010, they drew when Vigorito was white. In 2008, Bartell won with the white pieces.. I think he'll win again!
Theil- Gorman 1/2-1/2 While Gorman has been on fire lately, Theil hasn't played in the USCL since 2010's Week 10. While part of me wants to say Gorman will win, I think Theil will keep things solid with the white pieces.
Daly- Goldberg 0-1
and Philadelphia will be secured the first place spot in the East! Drawn Match 2-2
The Connecticut Dreadnoughts Needs to Defeat the Manhattan Applesauce to Have a Good Chance to Make the Playoffs!
GM Hess- IM Vovsha 1-0
IM Schneider- GM Kekelidze 0-1
IM Sarkar- IM Milman 1/2-1/2
Smith- Tanenbaum 1-0
and both teams will likely make the playoffs; Connecticut Wins 2.5-1.5
Two Teams Near the Middle of the Pack Duke it Out for Playoff Spots: The New Jersey Knockouts vs the New York Knights
GM Stripunsky- GM Gelashvili 1/2-1/2
SM Herman- GM Gulko 0-1
FM Shen- FM Bodek 0-1
Katz- Burke 1-0
and NY will end NJ's 2012 USCL Season! NY Wins 2.5-1.5
The Baltimore Kingfishers and the Boston Blitz Shall Fight to the Bitter End for A Potential Seat in the Playoffs
GM Margelashvili- Shmelov 1-0
FM Gulamali- GM Kaufman 0-1
Defibaugh- Matirosov 0-1
Krasik- Zimmer 1-0
and a Drawn 2-2 Match will make Baltimore's playoff hopes tiny and Boston's absolutely none!
Rabin Predicts the Results of the 2012 USCL Season's Eastern Division Quaterfinals
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I will give a detailed analysis of my stats for the regular season, but that'll have to wait. My music readers will have lots to read this week as I have two concerts coming up this week! Tuesday night I'm going to Phil Lesh and Friends at the Roseland Ballroom and Wednesday I'm seeing the Who play the Quadrophenia album at the Barclays Center.
For my youtube video, here's a rendition of "St. Stephen" the band did in Monclair last week:
Without further ado, here's the expected results of tomorrow's night quarterfinal matches!
The Manhattan Applesauce Shall Attempt to Seek Revenge for its 2011 Semifinal Loss to the New York Knights
GM Romanenko- GM Gelashvili 1/2-1/2 Gelashvili got upset by Romanenko earlier this season. However, I don't think Gelashvili will crumble this time!
SM Herman- IM Vovsha 0-1 A toss-up in a wild game! With his back-to-back victories against IM Enkhbat and GM Hess, Vovsha seems pretty scary though!
Shvartsman- FM Bodek 0-1 Instincts here!
Katz- King 1-0 While objectively I think King is a stronger player than Katz, I think preparation will do Katz justice here and he will pull off a slight upset.
and my beloved knights shall defeat my second favorite team, New York Wins 2.5-1.5
The Philadelphia Inventors Shall Attempt to Make Use of Its 1st Place Finish Against The Baltimore Kingfishers
Last year Philadelphia also got the first place seat, but got knocked out in the quarterfinals by Manhattan Anyway... Shall it help them out this year?
GM Erenburg- IM Enkhbat 1-0 Enkhbat is a solid player and Erenburg has had a lot of draws this season... I was tempted to predict a draw, but I think Erenburg will come trough with a win!
GM Kaufman- IM Bartell 1/2-1/2 It's gonna be a relatively peaceful game.
FM Gorman- NM Wang 1-0 Wang shocked the crowds in week 8 as he upset GM Gulko with the black pieces.. However, Gorman has been a beast all season long..... I think Wang will go for complications due to draw odds and end up taking too many risks.
FM Zimmer- IM Costigan 1-0 Instincts!
and Philadelphia will meet New York in the Semfinals, Philadelphia Wins 2.5-1.5
For my youtube video, here's a rendition of "St. Stephen" the band did in Monclair last week:
Without further ado, here's the expected results of tomorrow's night quarterfinal matches!
The Manhattan Applesauce Shall Attempt to Seek Revenge for its 2011 Semifinal Loss to the New York Knights
GM Romanenko- GM Gelashvili 1/2-1/2 Gelashvili got upset by Romanenko earlier this season. However, I don't think Gelashvili will crumble this time!
SM Herman- IM Vovsha 0-1 A toss-up in a wild game! With his back-to-back victories against IM Enkhbat and GM Hess, Vovsha seems pretty scary though!
Shvartsman- FM Bodek 0-1 Instincts here!
Katz- King 1-0 While objectively I think King is a stronger player than Katz, I think preparation will do Katz justice here and he will pull off a slight upset.
and my beloved knights shall defeat my second favorite team, New York Wins 2.5-1.5
The Philadelphia Inventors Shall Attempt to Make Use of Its 1st Place Finish Against The Baltimore Kingfishers
Last year Philadelphia also got the first place seat, but got knocked out in the quarterfinals by Manhattan Anyway... Shall it help them out this year?
GM Erenburg- IM Enkhbat 1-0 Enkhbat is a solid player and Erenburg has had a lot of draws this season... I was tempted to predict a draw, but I think Erenburg will come trough with a win!
GM Kaufman- IM Bartell 1/2-1/2 It's gonna be a relatively peaceful game.
FM Gorman- NM Wang 1-0 Wang shocked the crowds in week 8 as he upset GM Gulko with the black pieces.. However, Gorman has been a beast all season long..... I think Wang will go for complications due to draw odds and end up taking too many risks.
FM Zimmer- IM Costigan 1-0 Instincts!
and Philadelphia will meet New York in the Semfinals, Philadelphia Wins 2.5-1.5
Rabin's Prognostics for the 2012 USCL Western Division's Quaterfinals!
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I did a pretty lame job predicting the Eastern Quarterfinals. I have to give Manhattan some credit for defeating my beloved Knights in a topsy-turvy match. Manager Shaun Smith was talking a lot of smack about the match and I requested I write an apology for predicting New York would win, if they lost. While I refuse to apologize, I thought I'd at least share our conversation!
I also got a mere 1/8 or 12.75% of game predictions correct but will take the consolation that I least predicted the correct outcome of the Philadelphia- Baltimore match.
Let's hope things are better for tonight! It's nice to have some competition now with Ron Young being back with his famous jumbles!
For my acclaimed Youtube video, I give you Phil Lesh and Friends' encore from last night's show, a rendition of "Not Fade Away." Expect a review of that show to a blog near you soon!
The Two-Time USCL Champions, The Dallas Destiny vs the Veteran Seattle Sluggers Who Never Quite Made it to the End
GM Sadorra- GM Akobian 1/2-1/2 Akobian will equalize in a theoretical opening and a draw will be the ultimate result!
IM Orlov- GM Holt 0-1 Orlov is certainly capable of drawing or beating Holt, especially as he shocked the crowds a few weeks ago, defeating GM Kraai. However, Holt is pretty good at creating complications to win with black. I also think Kraai didn't play his best in that game; out of the opening, it seemed as if he lost the two bishops for no real reason.
Safin- Sinanan 1-0 Anything can happen.. Safin has an incredible 4/4 record this season, while Sinanan has an excellent 5/7 record. With a slightly better record, a higher rating and the white pieces I'll give Safin an edge.
Lessler- Guenther 1-0
and Dallas will end Seattle's Season, Dallas Wins 2.5-1.5
The Experienced Arizona Scorpions Take on the USCL Post-Season Newbies, The St. Louis Archbishops
IM Molner- GM Diamant 1/2-1/2 They drew in week 9, why not draw again?!
IM Kannappan- IM Altounian 1/2-1/2 I think Kannappan is a slight favorite to win, but Altounian very rarely loses USCL games!
IM Mohandesi- IM Bregadze 1/2-1/2 Similar note the above game! I thought Bregadze was a favorite in their week 9 match up, and that was with the white pieces. They drew then, so another one seems likely!
Hendrickson- Chakraborty 1-0 Time for Revenge!
and Hendrickson will lead the newbies to victory! St. Louis Wins 2.5-1.5
I also got a mere 1/8 or 12.75% of game predictions correct but will take the consolation that I least predicted the correct outcome of the Philadelphia- Baltimore match.
Let's hope things are better for tonight! It's nice to have some competition now with Ron Young being back with his famous jumbles!
For my acclaimed Youtube video, I give you Phil Lesh and Friends' encore from last night's show, a rendition of "Not Fade Away." Expect a review of that show to a blog near you soon!
The Two-Time USCL Champions, The Dallas Destiny vs the Veteran Seattle Sluggers Who Never Quite Made it to the End
GM Sadorra- GM Akobian 1/2-1/2 Akobian will equalize in a theoretical opening and a draw will be the ultimate result!
IM Orlov- GM Holt 0-1 Orlov is certainly capable of drawing or beating Holt, especially as he shocked the crowds a few weeks ago, defeating GM Kraai. However, Holt is pretty good at creating complications to win with black. I also think Kraai didn't play his best in that game; out of the opening, it seemed as if he lost the two bishops for no real reason.
Safin- Sinanan 1-0 Anything can happen.. Safin has an incredible 4/4 record this season, while Sinanan has an excellent 5/7 record. With a slightly better record, a higher rating and the white pieces I'll give Safin an edge.
Lessler- Guenther 1-0
and Dallas will end Seattle's Season, Dallas Wins 2.5-1.5
The Experienced Arizona Scorpions Take on the USCL Post-Season Newbies, The St. Louis Archbishops
IM Molner- GM Diamant 1/2-1/2 They drew in week 9, why not draw again?!
IM Kannappan- IM Altounian 1/2-1/2 I think Kannappan is a slight favorite to win, but Altounian very rarely loses USCL games!
IM Mohandesi- IM Bregadze 1/2-1/2 Similar note the above game! I thought Bregadze was a favorite in their week 9 match up, and that was with the white pieces. They drew then, so another one seems likely!
Hendrickson- Chakraborty 1-0 Time for Revenge!
and Hendrickson will lead the newbies to victory! St. Louis Wins 2.5-1.5
24 Şubat 2013 Pazar
ANDREA PIZZICONI AND THE ORIENTE LOPEZ JAZZ ENSEMBLE - LEARNING TO LIVE
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It all started with a bet. Andrea Pizziconi has been a long admirer of Big Picture Learning and their pioneering work to sustain innovative schools that foster real-world learning environments for economically challenged youth around the world. Last fall over lunch, friend and co-founder of Big Picture Elliot Washor said, "Record a jazz album for us, and I'll put together the team to create our first arts-oriented charter school in Harlem, New York." It was an offer Andrea couldn't refuse. From there, Andrea had the great fortune of enlisting Grammy Award-winning jazz pianist and composer Oriente Lopez and his fabulous musical colleagues -- Julio Botti (saxophone), Itaiguara Brandi£o (bass), and Mauricio Zottarelli (drums)-- to lend their talents to an album and a concert, suddenly: SCHOOL IS IN SESSION!
This album was put together to support a deep passion we all share to create schools where performance is a measure of not just what you know, but also where you have been and who you are. As you listen, you will hear musicians who have worked thousands of hours to achieve their sense of self, and who have become accountable to themselves and their community. The great jazz composer and pianist Ramsey Lewis said, "When you get to the top, don't forget to send the elevator back down." The musicians performing on this album "send the elevator back down" by helping our young people understand just how much dedication and mentoring it takes to really master something. The songs chosen for this album are a tribute to great jazz musicians like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Phyllis Hyman, who spent decades crafting their musicality even as they continued to share their talent with the public to great esteem. Like the students in our Big Picture Schools, they spent their entire careers being mentored by the great musicians who came before them. Eventually they become the mentors and masters, and sustain the next generation. Big Picture students learn in the same way and are also assessed by what they can do in real-world contexts. They are learning to live. The proceeds of this album support a new Big Picture School in Harlem, where each student will be mentored to pursue personal interests and achieve life goals. Connecting jazz and real-world learning underscores Big Picture Learning's philosophy-marrying inspiration and impact. Enjoy! ~ CD Universe
It all started with a bet. Andrea Pizziconi has been a long admirer of Big Picture Learning and their pioneering work to sustain innovative schools that foster real-world learning environments for economically challenged youth around the world. Last fall over lunch, friend and co-founder of Big Picture Elliot Washor said, "Record a jazz album for us, and I'll put together the team to create our first arts-oriented charter school in Harlem, New York." It was an offer Andrea couldn't refuse. From there, Andrea had the great fortune of enlisting Grammy Award-winning jazz pianist and composer Oriente Lopez and his fabulous musical colleagues -- Julio Botti (saxophone), Itaiguara Brandi£o (bass), and Mauricio Zottarelli (drums)-- to lend their talents to an album and a concert, suddenly: SCHOOL IS IN SESSION!This album was put together to support a deep passion we all share to create schools where performance is a measure of not just what you know, but also where you have been and who you are. As you listen, you will hear musicians who have worked thousands of hours to achieve their sense of self, and who have become accountable to themselves and their community. The great jazz composer and pianist Ramsey Lewis said, "When you get to the top, don't forget to send the elevator back down." The musicians performing on this album "send the elevator back down" by helping our young people understand just how much dedication and mentoring it takes to really master something. The songs chosen for this album are a tribute to great jazz musicians like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Phyllis Hyman, who spent decades crafting their musicality even as they continued to share their talent with the public to great esteem. Like the students in our Big Picture Schools, they spent their entire careers being mentored by the great musicians who came before them. Eventually they become the mentors and masters, and sustain the next generation. Big Picture students learn in the same way and are also assessed by what they can do in real-world contexts. They are learning to live. The proceeds of this album support a new Big Picture School in Harlem, where each student will be mentored to pursue personal interests and achieve life goals. Connecting jazz and real-world learning underscores Big Picture Learning's philosophy-marrying inspiration and impact. Enjoy! ~ CD Universe
NEW RELEASES - ESTEREO, LISA TAYLOR, NANCY WILSON
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BOMBA ESTEREO - ELEGANCIA TROPICAL
The best album so far from this up-and-coming Colombian group – a great mix of rootsy elements and more electronic production – served up in the forward-reaching style we've come to love in recent projects from the Soundway label! Bomba Estereo are easily one of the most contemporary groups to hit the imprint of late – and they've got no trouble at all moving between upbeat, soulful styles and more earthy levels of instrumentation – all fused together with the kind of warmth and joy we might expect in some of the older productions from Luaka Bop, but with a bit more edge too. Titles include "Bosque", "Bailar Conmigo", "Pa Respirar", "Mozo", "Pajaros", "Pure Love", and "Caribbean Power". ~ Dusty Groove
LISA TAYLOR - LET LOVE SHINE
From the Big Island of Hawaii, Lisa Lehua Taylor has been singing her entire life. Growing up in a household where she was exposed to Theatre at a very young age and her parents played everything from Led Zeppelin, Joni Mitchell and The Beatles to Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald, she was always encouraged to pursue her love of music. Lisa finally started performing at the age of 10 and hasn't stopped since! After years of making a living as a Vocalist in her home state, and performing with some of the best musicians the State has to offer, she's also performed in Japan, Korea and Singapore. Since moving to Santa Cruz, California 8 years ago, Lisa has quickly built a name for herself on the Central Coast and Bay Area. On top of all of the performing, She has lent her vocal talent to many recording projects and completed her debut album "LT" in 2010. Her highly anticipated album "Let Love Shine" was released February 1, 2013. Lisa's main musical influence is, Prince. Other artists that she's inspired by are Kimbra, Andy Allo, Corinne Bailey Rae, Jill Scott, Faith Evans, Justin Timberlake, The Fleet Foxes, Grace Potter, A Perfect Circle.
NANCY WILSON - HELLO YOUR LOVERS
Signed by Capitol in 1960, Nancy Wilson enjoyed her first hit with Guess Who I Saw Today, a single that would prove to be the first of several major hits for the singer. By 1962 Nancy was rightfully regarded as one of the best female singers around, mixing Dinah Washington's jazz stylings with Sarah Vaughan's jazz tone, a mix that proved irresistible on Nancy's collaborative album with Cannonball Adderley. Later the same year Nancy released Hello Young Lovers, her fourth album for Capitol. With arrangements by George Shearing, the album continued her hot streak, hitting #49 on the Billboard chart and earning her a number of monikers, of which Fancy Miss Nancy would appear to be the most apt. ~ CD Universe
BOMBA ESTEREO - ELEGANCIA TROPICALThe best album so far from this up-and-coming Colombian group – a great mix of rootsy elements and more electronic production – served up in the forward-reaching style we've come to love in recent projects from the Soundway label! Bomba Estereo are easily one of the most contemporary groups to hit the imprint of late – and they've got no trouble at all moving between upbeat, soulful styles and more earthy levels of instrumentation – all fused together with the kind of warmth and joy we might expect in some of the older productions from Luaka Bop, but with a bit more edge too. Titles include "Bosque", "Bailar Conmigo", "Pa Respirar", "Mozo", "Pajaros", "Pure Love", and "Caribbean Power". ~ Dusty Groove
LISA TAYLOR - LET LOVE SHINEFrom the Big Island of Hawaii, Lisa Lehua Taylor has been singing her entire life. Growing up in a household where she was exposed to Theatre at a very young age and her parents played everything from Led Zeppelin, Joni Mitchell and The Beatles to Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald, she was always encouraged to pursue her love of music. Lisa finally started performing at the age of 10 and hasn't stopped since! After years of making a living as a Vocalist in her home state, and performing with some of the best musicians the State has to offer, she's also performed in Japan, Korea and Singapore. Since moving to Santa Cruz, California 8 years ago, Lisa has quickly built a name for herself on the Central Coast and Bay Area. On top of all of the performing, She has lent her vocal talent to many recording projects and completed her debut album "LT" in 2010. Her highly anticipated album "Let Love Shine" was released February 1, 2013. Lisa's main musical influence is, Prince. Other artists that she's inspired by are Kimbra, Andy Allo, Corinne Bailey Rae, Jill Scott, Faith Evans, Justin Timberlake, The Fleet Foxes, Grace Potter, A Perfect Circle.
NANCY WILSON - HELLO YOUR LOVERS
Signed by Capitol in 1960, Nancy Wilson enjoyed her first hit with Guess Who I Saw Today, a single that would prove to be the first of several major hits for the singer. By 1962 Nancy was rightfully regarded as one of the best female singers around, mixing Dinah Washington's jazz stylings with Sarah Vaughan's jazz tone, a mix that proved irresistible on Nancy's collaborative album with Cannonball Adderley. Later the same year Nancy released Hello Young Lovers, her fourth album for Capitol. With arrangements by George Shearing, the album continued her hot streak, hitting #49 on the Billboard chart and earning her a number of monikers, of which Fancy Miss Nancy would appear to be the most apt. ~ CD Universe
JOE COCKER- FIRE IT UP
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Fire It Up finds Joe Cocker continuing the commercially rewarding partnership he struck up with producer Matt Serletic on 2010’s Hard Knocks. And as with its predecessor, Serletic’s highly selective production ensures everything is exactly where you’d expect it to be. The redemptive swell of Hammond organ, a sweet soothing trill from backing vocalists, snap-crack snare drums, rootsy guitar breaks and, on occasion, jabs of well-drilled brass are all present and correct.
In opting for such a clean and tidy approach, and doing away with any potentially unsightly loose ends, Serletic’s formulaic plan ensures there’s nothing in the way of surprises, fireworks or serendipity – the very elements which were such a distinctive hallmark of Cocker’s earliest successes. Not being a renowned songwriter himself, Cocker is largely defined by the songs he sings, and as such is necessarily judged by company he keeps in the present rather than the laurels of the past.
Fire It Up is uncontentious stuff whose anodyne drift is exemplified in the by-the-numbers air-punch of Eye on the Prize. It’s not so much a song as a catchy chorus waiting for the movie sync rights to be optioned. Perhaps the best of the 11 slender songs that comprise Fire It Up is I Come in Peace, blessed as it is with a driving bluesy bounce and useful groove, atop which Cocker deploys his strangulated growl with something approaching passion.
Yet for much of the record, he seems content to be merely skim over exquisitely manicured settings without ever digging in to find anything that feels like home. Whilst this is undoubtedly an accessible set, the price for Cocker sounding so innocuous is to end up being something of a tourist on his own record.
~ Sid Smith / BBC
Fire It Up finds Joe Cocker continuing the commercially rewarding partnership he struck up with producer Matt Serletic on 2010’s Hard Knocks. And as with its predecessor, Serletic’s highly selective production ensures everything is exactly where you’d expect it to be. The redemptive swell of Hammond organ, a sweet soothing trill from backing vocalists, snap-crack snare drums, rootsy guitar breaks and, on occasion, jabs of well-drilled brass are all present and correct.In opting for such a clean and tidy approach, and doing away with any potentially unsightly loose ends, Serletic’s formulaic plan ensures there’s nothing in the way of surprises, fireworks or serendipity – the very elements which were such a distinctive hallmark of Cocker’s earliest successes. Not being a renowned songwriter himself, Cocker is largely defined by the songs he sings, and as such is necessarily judged by company he keeps in the present rather than the laurels of the past.
Fire It Up is uncontentious stuff whose anodyne drift is exemplified in the by-the-numbers air-punch of Eye on the Prize. It’s not so much a song as a catchy chorus waiting for the movie sync rights to be optioned. Perhaps the best of the 11 slender songs that comprise Fire It Up is I Come in Peace, blessed as it is with a driving bluesy bounce and useful groove, atop which Cocker deploys his strangulated growl with something approaching passion.
Yet for much of the record, he seems content to be merely skim over exquisitely manicured settings without ever digging in to find anything that feels like home. Whilst this is undoubtedly an accessible set, the price for Cocker sounding so innocuous is to end up being something of a tourist on his own record.
~ Sid Smith / BBC
CLINTON FEARON - HEART AND SOUL
To contact us Click HERE
During the roots reggae heyday of the 1970s, several noteworthy groups made it onto the roster of major labels. The Gladiators were one of the greatest reggae harmony trios to be signed to Virgin Records. Their signing may have come about partly because lead singer Albert Griffiths had a similar tenor range to Bob Marley’s, but regardless of the particulars, The Gladiators crafted many fine albums during their tenure at Virgin.
Bassist/guitarist Clinton Fearon was the perfect foil to Griffiths, his rich baritone a superb counterpart to his bandmate's high tenor. Fearon’s work in The Gladiators can be likened to that of Jerry Butler’s in The Impressions, or Mick Jones’ in The Clash – he did not sing lead very often, but when he did, both his lyrics and vocal delivery really stood out.
Fearon moved to Seattle during the 1980s, and launched his solo career there. Yet he has managed to retain the same level of authenticity on his newer albums as heard of his Jamaican works, and this is true of Heart and Soul. This album follows his unplugged touring in the US and Europe. His association with Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith’s Inna Di Yard project has proved invaluable in shaping Heart and Soul, which recasts great Gladiators tracks in a solo acoustic setting.
Let Jah Be Praised retains its power to move. In fact, with only a few guitar chords to frame it, the lyrics penetrate the listener on an even deeper level. Likewise, Chatty Chatty Mouth, which was aimed at a particular Jamaican politician, conveys a heavy message in a deceptively simple form. Untrue Girl and Jah Almighty simply sound glorious, as does the rest of the disc.
This UK edition has a couple of bonus tracks as well, not present on a slightly earlier French release, which only add to this already excellent album’s appeal. With exceptional live performances complementing this studio output, it’s clear Fearon’s lost none of his magic.
~ David Katz / BBC
During the roots reggae heyday of the 1970s, several noteworthy groups made it onto the roster of major labels. The Gladiators were one of the greatest reggae harmony trios to be signed to Virgin Records. Their signing may have come about partly because lead singer Albert Griffiths had a similar tenor range to Bob Marley’s, but regardless of the particulars, The Gladiators crafted many fine albums during their tenure at Virgin.Bassist/guitarist Clinton Fearon was the perfect foil to Griffiths, his rich baritone a superb counterpart to his bandmate's high tenor. Fearon’s work in The Gladiators can be likened to that of Jerry Butler’s in The Impressions, or Mick Jones’ in The Clash – he did not sing lead very often, but when he did, both his lyrics and vocal delivery really stood out.
Fearon moved to Seattle during the 1980s, and launched his solo career there. Yet he has managed to retain the same level of authenticity on his newer albums as heard of his Jamaican works, and this is true of Heart and Soul. This album follows his unplugged touring in the US and Europe. His association with Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith’s Inna Di Yard project has proved invaluable in shaping Heart and Soul, which recasts great Gladiators tracks in a solo acoustic setting.
Let Jah Be Praised retains its power to move. In fact, with only a few guitar chords to frame it, the lyrics penetrate the listener on an even deeper level. Likewise, Chatty Chatty Mouth, which was aimed at a particular Jamaican politician, conveys a heavy message in a deceptively simple form. Untrue Girl and Jah Almighty simply sound glorious, as does the rest of the disc.
This UK edition has a couple of bonus tracks as well, not present on a slightly earlier French release, which only add to this already excellent album’s appeal. With exceptional live performances complementing this studio output, it’s clear Fearon’s lost none of his magic.
~ David Katz / BBC
MARK LOCKHEART - ELLINGTON IN ANTICIPATION
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Over 30 years, tenor saxophonist Mark Lockheart has steadily built up an impressive and eclectic discography. Alongside albums on which he is leader – this is the eighth – he has been a member of such groundbreaking groups as Loose Tubes, Perfect Houseplants and Polar Bear. He’s also guested on classic records like Prefab Sprout’s Steve McQueen and Radiohead’s Kid A.
To record Ellington in Anticipation, Lockheart selected a star-studded group including his Polar Bear bandmates bassist Tom Herbert and drummer Seb Rochford plus piano ace Liam Noble.
Alongside Lockheart are Finn Peters on alto sax and flute, clarinettist James Allsopp and violinist Emma Smith. That instrumentation gave Lockheart a versatile palette which he’s exploited to produce a rich variety of moods and textures. The album’s 11 tracks include such well-loved Duke Ellington pieces as Mood Indigo and Creole Love Call alongside four Lockheart originals which borrow from and pay homage to Ellington.
Though Lockheart has been an Ellington fan for 40 years, this is not a tribute album of faithful recreations. Each piece has been rethought and radically remodelled to create vibrant new music. The end results are Ellington for the 21st century. So, the version of Take the A Train only includes an impressionistic reading of its distinctive horn riff. This piece is used as the basis for a loose, free-flowing improvisation with notable contributions from piano, drums and all three reeds.
In contrast, Lockheart’s My Caravan begins loosely as a percussion-driven improvisation which evolves gradually until closing with a full-blooded rendition of the refrain from Ellington’s own Caravan. Above all, Lockheart is a first-rate composer and arranger, with Ellington’s knack of deploying individual players to give pieces distinctive characters. His full-bodied tenor playing impresses throughout, both as a soloist and in conjunction with Finn and Allsopp.
Noble’s piano playing repeatedly commands attention, notably on Beautiful Man where he is joined by Smith’s violin to create an appealingly meditative mood, and solo on the hauntingly beautiful closing track Indian Summer. Ellington in Anticipation seems sure to appeal equally to fans of Polar Bear, Lockheart and the Duke.
~ John Eyles / BBC
Over 30 years, tenor saxophonist Mark Lockheart has steadily built up an impressive and eclectic discography. Alongside albums on which he is leader – this is the eighth – he has been a member of such groundbreaking groups as Loose Tubes, Perfect Houseplants and Polar Bear. He’s also guested on classic records like Prefab Sprout’s Steve McQueen and Radiohead’s Kid A.To record Ellington in Anticipation, Lockheart selected a star-studded group including his Polar Bear bandmates bassist Tom Herbert and drummer Seb Rochford plus piano ace Liam Noble.
Alongside Lockheart are Finn Peters on alto sax and flute, clarinettist James Allsopp and violinist Emma Smith. That instrumentation gave Lockheart a versatile palette which he’s exploited to produce a rich variety of moods and textures. The album’s 11 tracks include such well-loved Duke Ellington pieces as Mood Indigo and Creole Love Call alongside four Lockheart originals which borrow from and pay homage to Ellington.
Though Lockheart has been an Ellington fan for 40 years, this is not a tribute album of faithful recreations. Each piece has been rethought and radically remodelled to create vibrant new music. The end results are Ellington for the 21st century. So, the version of Take the A Train only includes an impressionistic reading of its distinctive horn riff. This piece is used as the basis for a loose, free-flowing improvisation with notable contributions from piano, drums and all three reeds.
In contrast, Lockheart’s My Caravan begins loosely as a percussion-driven improvisation which evolves gradually until closing with a full-blooded rendition of the refrain from Ellington’s own Caravan. Above all, Lockheart is a first-rate composer and arranger, with Ellington’s knack of deploying individual players to give pieces distinctive characters. His full-bodied tenor playing impresses throughout, both as a soloist and in conjunction with Finn and Allsopp.
Noble’s piano playing repeatedly commands attention, notably on Beautiful Man where he is joined by Smith’s violin to create an appealingly meditative mood, and solo on the hauntingly beautiful closing track Indian Summer. Ellington in Anticipation seems sure to appeal equally to fans of Polar Bear, Lockheart and the Duke.
~ John Eyles / BBC
23 Şubat 2013 Cumartesi
Lightning Crashes: Feel It Comin' Back Again
To contact us Click HERE
In the Christmas movie It's a Wonderful Life, there's a famous line:
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings."
What if every time there's a crash of lightning, a birth or death takes place?
In 1994, a rock band out of Pennsylvania released a song which basically ponders the circle of life, within the concept of lightning crashing. The band's name was Live and the song was called "Lightning Crashes."
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesHer placenta falls to the floorThe angel opens her eyesThe confusion sets inBefore the doctor can even close the door
Lightning crashes an old mother diesHer intentions fall to the floorThe angel closes her eyesThe confusion that was hersBelongs now to the baby down the hall"
A baby is born as an old woman dies...an angel of life balances out the angel of death.
"Oh now feel it, comin' back againLike a rollin', thunder chasing the windForces pullin' fromThe center of the earth againI can feel it."
The new life force pulling against the force of death
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesThis moment she's been waiting forThe angel opens her eyesPale blue colored irisPresents the circleAnd puts the glory out to hide, hide"
Pale blue colored iris...the circle of life is complete.Stunning imagery, a vocal which builds like thunderheads ready to explode and a perspective of life rarely seen in a rock song. Absolutely wonderful.
"Lightning Crashes" as written by Edward Joel Kowalczyk, Chad David Taylor, Patrick Dahlheimer, Chad Alan GraceyLyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings."
What if every time there's a crash of lightning, a birth or death takes place?In 1994, a rock band out of Pennsylvania released a song which basically ponders the circle of life, within the concept of lightning crashing. The band's name was Live and the song was called "Lightning Crashes."
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesHer placenta falls to the floorThe angel opens her eyesThe confusion sets inBefore the doctor can even close the door
Lightning crashes an old mother diesHer intentions fall to the floorThe angel closes her eyesThe confusion that was hersBelongs now to the baby down the hall"
A baby is born as an old woman dies...an angel of life balances out the angel of death.
"Oh now feel it, comin' back againLike a rollin', thunder chasing the windForces pullin' fromThe center of the earth againI can feel it."
The new life force pulling against the force of death
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesThis moment she's been waiting forThe angel opens her eyesPale blue colored irisPresents the circleAnd puts the glory out to hide, hide"
Pale blue colored iris...the circle of life is complete.Stunning imagery, a vocal which builds like thunderheads ready to explode and a perspective of life rarely seen in a rock song. Absolutely wonderful.
"Lightning Crashes" as written by Edward Joel Kowalczyk, Chad David Taylor, Patrick Dahlheimer, Chad Alan GraceyLyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lucinda Williams: Can't Go Back
To contact us Click HERE
Today I need to get back to basics.
Featured today is an artist who can play it all. A little blues, a little country, a little rock. Lucinda Williams started out more country oriented in the late 70's. Over the years her influences have moved her into much broader categories.
Coming out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Lucinda has traveled the road from singer-songwriter, to Grammy winning singer-songwriter, to being named "America's Best Songwriter," by Time magazine. In 2007 She performed a 5 day series of concerts in Los Angeles and New York where she performed her entire catalog on consecutive nights. Haven't you always wanted to hear an artist do that... play all the songs you love, but are not necessarily the ones which make the regular set list.
Her latest album, Blessed, was released in 2011 and is her tenth studio album. It features guest appearances by Elvis Costello and Matthew Sweet.
Today we will have a taste of a song from her 1998 Grammy winning album Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, her first Gold album. The song was written by Randy Weeks of Lonesome Strangers.
Lucinda Williams "Can't Let Go"
Featured today is an artist who can play it all. A little blues, a little country, a little rock. Lucinda Williams started out more country oriented in the late 70's. Over the years her influences have moved her into much broader categories.Coming out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Lucinda has traveled the road from singer-songwriter, to Grammy winning singer-songwriter, to being named "America's Best Songwriter," by Time magazine. In 2007 She performed a 5 day series of concerts in Los Angeles and New York where she performed her entire catalog on consecutive nights. Haven't you always wanted to hear an artist do that... play all the songs you love, but are not necessarily the ones which make the regular set list.
Her latest album, Blessed, was released in 2011 and is her tenth studio album. It features guest appearances by Elvis Costello and Matthew Sweet.
Today we will have a taste of a song from her 1998 Grammy winning album Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, her first Gold album. The song was written by Randy Weeks of Lonesome Strangers.
Lucinda Williams "Can't Let Go"
When the Water Gets Muddy, It's Time for Some Blues
To contact us Click HERE
It's been a long, cold week. Dear lord, I am in need of some serious blues. Serious blues.
McKinley Morganfield died April 30, 1983 at approximately 70 years of age. His date of birth has long been in question but his impact on the American blues scene has not. He has been ranked as one of the top 100 musicians of all time, and influenced virtually every American and British rock or blues group from the 60's. Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix, the Stones.. Hendrix is quoted as saying about him "I first heard him as a little boy and it scared me to death." The Rolling Stones got their name from one of his songs.
The king of Chicago Blues, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Hell, they even issued a postage stamp in his honor.
Still can't place the name? How about what his friends called him: Muddy Waters.
Let's just taste a few of his best tunes. They are bound to warm you from the inside out.
Mr. Muddy Waters
"Hoochie Coochie Man"
"Got My Mojo Working"
"Baby Please Don't Go"
"They Call Me Muddy Waters"
ah yes.
I know I'm feeling much, much better.
.
McKinley Morganfield died April 30, 1983 at approximately 70 years of age. His date of birth has long been in question but his impact on the American blues scene has not. He has been ranked as one of the top 100 musicians of all time, and influenced virtually every American and British rock or blues group from the 60's. Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix, the Stones.. Hendrix is quoted as saying about him "I first heard him as a little boy and it scared me to death." The Rolling Stones got their name from one of his songs.The king of Chicago Blues, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Hell, they even issued a postage stamp in his honor.
Still can't place the name? How about what his friends called him: Muddy Waters.
Let's just taste a few of his best tunes. They are bound to warm you from the inside out.
Mr. Muddy Waters
"Hoochie Coochie Man"
"Got My Mojo Working"
"Baby Please Don't Go"
"They Call Me Muddy Waters"
ah yes.
I know I'm feeling much, much better.
.
Dee Rock: "The Road Ain't Long" Album Review
To contact us Click HERE
Out of Nashville comes country-rock artist Dee Rock.
Now I'm not known to be the biggest country fan around so in reviewing his album, I wasn't sure what to expect or how I would feel about it. Well, from the opening track "Ripples on the Moon," I was pleasantly surprised. Dee plays one hell of a hot guitar, rocks the melodies pretty hard and has some tasty lyrics. Oh yeah, his voice is pretty fine too.
It also seems Dee Rock has quite a love for Country and the Military. The album has one song "The Uniform," about the sacrifices of our servicemen, servicewomen and their families, along with a couple of other which you can hear on his website: "The Colors I Fly" and "Patriot Girl"
For the full review, as well as his bio and links to hiswebsite, where you can listen to all the album tracks, click here; Dee Rock album review at musicstaruniverse.com
.
Now I'm not known to be the biggest country fan around so in reviewing his album, I wasn't sure what to expect or how I would feel about it. Well, from the opening track "Ripples on the Moon," I was pleasantly surprised. Dee plays one hell of a hot guitar, rocks the melodies pretty hard and has some tasty lyrics. Oh yeah, his voice is pretty fine too.It also seems Dee Rock has quite a love for Country and the Military. The album has one song "The Uniform," about the sacrifices of our servicemen, servicewomen and their families, along with a couple of other which you can hear on his website: "The Colors I Fly" and "Patriot Girl"
For the full review, as well as his bio and links to hiswebsite, where you can listen to all the album tracks, click here; Dee Rock album review at musicstaruniverse.com
.
Self Description In Four Words: I Won't Back Down
To contact us Click HERE
It's another busy week around here. A couple of live shows which will be reviewed before too long. There's some good music coming out which gets me real happy, and as soon as the weather warms up, we can all come out of our cocoons.
Over at Lance's 100 Word Song Challenge, Deb aka @deblsee on Twitter picked out this week's song. For the newbies around here, the picked song is a prompt to write a story, poem, or any post in exactly 100 words. The post doesn't need to come from the title, it can be a feeling you get from it or basically any way you can relate it back. This week's song is a good one. "I Won't Back Down," from Tom Petty.
And...
The Jeep Wrangler barreled against the hill for the eighthtime. Damn it. We’re in freakin’ no man’s land. A bead of sweat made its waydown Charlie’s forehead. He glanced over at Billy, but Billy was looking at thegravel moving slowly under the truck.
Charlie thought about the commercials he had seen on TV.Those Jeeps would climb a vertical wall without even a hitch in their giddyup. Whoseidea was this anyway?
Billy looked over and pleaded “back it up, it’s the onlyway.”
Never a man who liked to be beaten, Charlie shifted intolow.
“No.”
Over at Lance's 100 Word Song Challenge, Deb aka @deblsee on Twitter picked out this week's song. For the newbies around here, the picked song is a prompt to write a story, poem, or any post in exactly 100 words. The post doesn't need to come from the title, it can be a feeling you get from it or basically any way you can relate it back. This week's song is a good one. "I Won't Back Down," from Tom Petty.And...
The Jeep Wrangler barreled against the hill for the eighthtime. Damn it. We’re in freakin’ no man’s land. A bead of sweat made its waydown Charlie’s forehead. He glanced over at Billy, but Billy was looking at thegravel moving slowly under the truck.
Charlie thought about the commercials he had seen on TV.Those Jeeps would climb a vertical wall without even a hitch in their giddyup. Whoseidea was this anyway?
Billy looked over and pleaded “back it up, it’s the onlyway.”
Never a man who liked to be beaten, Charlie shifted intolow.
“No.”
22 Şubat 2013 Cuma
Lightning Crashes: Feel It Comin' Back Again
To contact us Click HERE
In the Christmas movie It's a Wonderful Life, there's a famous line:
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings."
What if every time there's a crash of lightning, a birth or death takes place?
In 1994, a rock band out of Pennsylvania released a song which basically ponders the circle of life, within the concept of lightning crashing. The band's name was Live and the song was called "Lightning Crashes."
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesHer placenta falls to the floorThe angel opens her eyesThe confusion sets inBefore the doctor can even close the door
Lightning crashes an old mother diesHer intentions fall to the floorThe angel closes her eyesThe confusion that was hersBelongs now to the baby down the hall"
A baby is born as an old woman dies...an angel of life balances out the angel of death.
"Oh now feel it, comin' back againLike a rollin', thunder chasing the windForces pullin' fromThe center of the earth againI can feel it."
The new life force pulling against the force of death
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesThis moment she's been waiting forThe angel opens her eyesPale blue colored irisPresents the circleAnd puts the glory out to hide, hide"
Pale blue colored iris...the circle of life is complete.Stunning imagery, a vocal which builds like thunderheads ready to explode and a perspective of life rarely seen in a rock song. Absolutely wonderful.
"Lightning Crashes" as written by Edward Joel Kowalczyk, Chad David Taylor, Patrick Dahlheimer, Chad Alan GraceyLyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings."
What if every time there's a crash of lightning, a birth or death takes place?In 1994, a rock band out of Pennsylvania released a song which basically ponders the circle of life, within the concept of lightning crashing. The band's name was Live and the song was called "Lightning Crashes."
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesHer placenta falls to the floorThe angel opens her eyesThe confusion sets inBefore the doctor can even close the door
Lightning crashes an old mother diesHer intentions fall to the floorThe angel closes her eyesThe confusion that was hersBelongs now to the baby down the hall"
A baby is born as an old woman dies...an angel of life balances out the angel of death.
"Oh now feel it, comin' back againLike a rollin', thunder chasing the windForces pullin' fromThe center of the earth againI can feel it."
The new life force pulling against the force of death
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesThis moment she's been waiting forThe angel opens her eyesPale blue colored irisPresents the circleAnd puts the glory out to hide, hide"
Pale blue colored iris...the circle of life is complete.Stunning imagery, a vocal which builds like thunderheads ready to explode and a perspective of life rarely seen in a rock song. Absolutely wonderful.
"Lightning Crashes" as written by Edward Joel Kowalczyk, Chad David Taylor, Patrick Dahlheimer, Chad Alan GraceyLyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lucinda Williams: Can't Go Back
To contact us Click HERE
Today I need to get back to basics.
Featured today is an artist who can play it all. A little blues, a little country, a little rock. Lucinda Williams started out more country oriented in the late 70's. Over the years her influences have moved her into much broader categories.
Coming out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Lucinda has traveled the road from singer-songwriter, to Grammy winning singer-songwriter, to being named "America's Best Songwriter," by Time magazine. In 2007 She performed a 5 day series of concerts in Los Angeles and New York where she performed her entire catalog on consecutive nights. Haven't you always wanted to hear an artist do that... play all the songs you love, but are not necessarily the ones which make the regular set list.
Her latest album, Blessed, was released in 2011 and is her tenth studio album. It features guest appearances by Elvis Costello and Matthew Sweet.
Today we will have a taste of a song from her 1998 Grammy winning album Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, her first Gold album. The song was written by Randy Weeks of Lonesome Strangers.
Lucinda Williams "Can't Let Go"
Featured today is an artist who can play it all. A little blues, a little country, a little rock. Lucinda Williams started out more country oriented in the late 70's. Over the years her influences have moved her into much broader categories.Coming out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Lucinda has traveled the road from singer-songwriter, to Grammy winning singer-songwriter, to being named "America's Best Songwriter," by Time magazine. In 2007 She performed a 5 day series of concerts in Los Angeles and New York where she performed her entire catalog on consecutive nights. Haven't you always wanted to hear an artist do that... play all the songs you love, but are not necessarily the ones which make the regular set list.
Her latest album, Blessed, was released in 2011 and is her tenth studio album. It features guest appearances by Elvis Costello and Matthew Sweet.
Today we will have a taste of a song from her 1998 Grammy winning album Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, her first Gold album. The song was written by Randy Weeks of Lonesome Strangers.
Lucinda Williams "Can't Let Go"
When the Water Gets Muddy, It's Time for Some Blues
To contact us Click HERE
It's been a long, cold week. Dear lord, I am in need of some serious blues. Serious blues.
McKinley Morganfield died April 30, 1983 at approximately 70 years of age. His date of birth has long been in question but his impact on the American blues scene has not. He has been ranked as one of the top 100 musicians of all time, and influenced virtually every American and British rock or blues group from the 60's. Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix, the Stones.. Hendrix is quoted as saying about him "I first heard him as a little boy and it scared me to death." The Rolling Stones got their name from one of his songs.
The king of Chicago Blues, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Hell, they even issued a postage stamp in his honor.
Still can't place the name? How about what his friends called him: Muddy Waters.
Let's just taste a few of his best tunes. They are bound to warm you from the inside out.
Mr. Muddy Waters
"Hoochie Coochie Man"
"Got My Mojo Working"
"Baby Please Don't Go"
"They Call Me Muddy Waters"
ah yes.
I know I'm feeling much, much better.
.
McKinley Morganfield died April 30, 1983 at approximately 70 years of age. His date of birth has long been in question but his impact on the American blues scene has not. He has been ranked as one of the top 100 musicians of all time, and influenced virtually every American and British rock or blues group from the 60's. Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix, the Stones.. Hendrix is quoted as saying about him "I first heard him as a little boy and it scared me to death." The Rolling Stones got their name from one of his songs.The king of Chicago Blues, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Hell, they even issued a postage stamp in his honor.
Still can't place the name? How about what his friends called him: Muddy Waters.
Let's just taste a few of his best tunes. They are bound to warm you from the inside out.
Mr. Muddy Waters
"Hoochie Coochie Man"
"Got My Mojo Working"
"Baby Please Don't Go"
"They Call Me Muddy Waters"
ah yes.
I know I'm feeling much, much better.
.
Dee Rock: "The Road Ain't Long" Album Review
To contact us Click HERE
Out of Nashville comes country-rock artist Dee Rock.
Now I'm not known to be the biggest country fan around so in reviewing his album, I wasn't sure what to expect or how I would feel about it. Well, from the opening track "Ripples on the Moon," I was pleasantly surprised. Dee plays one hell of a hot guitar, rocks the melodies pretty hard and has some tasty lyrics. Oh yeah, his voice is pretty fine too.
It also seems Dee Rock has quite a love for Country and the Military. The album has one song "The Uniform," about the sacrifices of our servicemen, servicewomen and their families, along with a couple of other which you can hear on his website: "The Colors I Fly" and "Patriot Girl"
For the full review, as well as his bio and links to hiswebsite, where you can listen to all the album tracks, click here; Dee Rock album review at musicstaruniverse.com
.
Now I'm not known to be the biggest country fan around so in reviewing his album, I wasn't sure what to expect or how I would feel about it. Well, from the opening track "Ripples on the Moon," I was pleasantly surprised. Dee plays one hell of a hot guitar, rocks the melodies pretty hard and has some tasty lyrics. Oh yeah, his voice is pretty fine too.It also seems Dee Rock has quite a love for Country and the Military. The album has one song "The Uniform," about the sacrifices of our servicemen, servicewomen and their families, along with a couple of other which you can hear on his website: "The Colors I Fly" and "Patriot Girl"
For the full review, as well as his bio and links to hiswebsite, where you can listen to all the album tracks, click here; Dee Rock album review at musicstaruniverse.com
.
Self Description In Four Words: I Won't Back Down
To contact us Click HERE
It's another busy week around here. A couple of live shows which will be reviewed before too long. There's some good music coming out which gets me real happy, and as soon as the weather warms up, we can all come out of our cocoons.
Over at Lance's 100 Word Song Challenge, Deb aka @deblsee on Twitter picked out this week's song. For the newbies around here, the picked song is a prompt to write a story, poem, or any post in exactly 100 words. The post doesn't need to come from the title, it can be a feeling you get from it or basically any way you can relate it back. This week's song is a good one. "I Won't Back Down," from Tom Petty.
And...
The Jeep Wrangler barreled against the hill for the eighthtime. Damn it. We’re in freakin’ no man’s land. A bead of sweat made its waydown Charlie’s forehead. He glanced over at Billy, but Billy was looking at thegravel moving slowly under the truck.
Charlie thought about the commercials he had seen on TV.Those Jeeps would climb a vertical wall without even a hitch in their giddyup. Whoseidea was this anyway?
Billy looked over and pleaded “back it up, it’s the onlyway.”
Never a man who liked to be beaten, Charlie shifted intolow.
“No.”
Over at Lance's 100 Word Song Challenge, Deb aka @deblsee on Twitter picked out this week's song. For the newbies around here, the picked song is a prompt to write a story, poem, or any post in exactly 100 words. The post doesn't need to come from the title, it can be a feeling you get from it or basically any way you can relate it back. This week's song is a good one. "I Won't Back Down," from Tom Petty.And...
The Jeep Wrangler barreled against the hill for the eighthtime. Damn it. We’re in freakin’ no man’s land. A bead of sweat made its waydown Charlie’s forehead. He glanced over at Billy, but Billy was looking at thegravel moving slowly under the truck.
Charlie thought about the commercials he had seen on TV.Those Jeeps would climb a vertical wall without even a hitch in their giddyup. Whoseidea was this anyway?
Billy looked over and pleaded “back it up, it’s the onlyway.”
Never a man who liked to be beaten, Charlie shifted intolow.
“No.”
21 Şubat 2013 Perşembe
Lightning Crashes: Feel It Comin' Back Again
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In the Christmas movie It's a Wonderful Life, there's a famous line:
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings."
What if every time there's a crash of lightning, a birth or death takes place?
In 1994, a rock band out of Pennsylvania released a song which basically ponders the circle of life, within the concept of lightning crashing. The band's name was Live and the song was called "Lightning Crashes."
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesHer placenta falls to the floorThe angel opens her eyesThe confusion sets inBefore the doctor can even close the door
Lightning crashes an old mother diesHer intentions fall to the floorThe angel closes her eyesThe confusion that was hersBelongs now to the baby down the hall"
A baby is born as an old woman dies...an angel of life balances out the angel of death.
"Oh now feel it, comin' back againLike a rollin', thunder chasing the windForces pullin' fromThe center of the earth againI can feel it."
The new life force pulling against the force of death
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesThis moment she's been waiting forThe angel opens her eyesPale blue colored irisPresents the circleAnd puts the glory out to hide, hide"
Pale blue colored iris...the circle of life is complete.Stunning imagery, a vocal which builds like thunderheads ready to explode and a perspective of life rarely seen in a rock song. Absolutely wonderful.
"Lightning Crashes" as written by Edward Joel Kowalczyk, Chad David Taylor, Patrick Dahlheimer, Chad Alan GraceyLyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings."
What if every time there's a crash of lightning, a birth or death takes place?In 1994, a rock band out of Pennsylvania released a song which basically ponders the circle of life, within the concept of lightning crashing. The band's name was Live and the song was called "Lightning Crashes."
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesHer placenta falls to the floorThe angel opens her eyesThe confusion sets inBefore the doctor can even close the door
Lightning crashes an old mother diesHer intentions fall to the floorThe angel closes her eyesThe confusion that was hersBelongs now to the baby down the hall"
A baby is born as an old woman dies...an angel of life balances out the angel of death.
"Oh now feel it, comin' back againLike a rollin', thunder chasing the windForces pullin' fromThe center of the earth againI can feel it."
The new life force pulling against the force of death
"Lightning crashes a new mother criesThis moment she's been waiting forThe angel opens her eyesPale blue colored irisPresents the circleAnd puts the glory out to hide, hide"
Pale blue colored iris...the circle of life is complete.Stunning imagery, a vocal which builds like thunderheads ready to explode and a perspective of life rarely seen in a rock song. Absolutely wonderful.
"Lightning Crashes" as written by Edward Joel Kowalczyk, Chad David Taylor, Patrick Dahlheimer, Chad Alan GraceyLyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lucinda Williams: Can't Go Back
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Today I need to get back to basics.
Featured today is an artist who can play it all. A little blues, a little country, a little rock. Lucinda Williams started out more country oriented in the late 70's. Over the years her influences have moved her into much broader categories.
Coming out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Lucinda has traveled the road from singer-songwriter, to Grammy winning singer-songwriter, to being named "America's Best Songwriter," by Time magazine. In 2007 She performed a 5 day series of concerts in Los Angeles and New York where she performed her entire catalog on consecutive nights. Haven't you always wanted to hear an artist do that... play all the songs you love, but are not necessarily the ones which make the regular set list.
Her latest album, Blessed, was released in 2011 and is her tenth studio album. It features guest appearances by Elvis Costello and Matthew Sweet.
Today we will have a taste of a song from her 1998 Grammy winning album Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, her first Gold album. The song was written by Randy Weeks of Lonesome Strangers.
Lucinda Williams "Can't Let Go"
Featured today is an artist who can play it all. A little blues, a little country, a little rock. Lucinda Williams started out more country oriented in the late 70's. Over the years her influences have moved her into much broader categories.Coming out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Lucinda has traveled the road from singer-songwriter, to Grammy winning singer-songwriter, to being named "America's Best Songwriter," by Time magazine. In 2007 She performed a 5 day series of concerts in Los Angeles and New York where she performed her entire catalog on consecutive nights. Haven't you always wanted to hear an artist do that... play all the songs you love, but are not necessarily the ones which make the regular set list.
Her latest album, Blessed, was released in 2011 and is her tenth studio album. It features guest appearances by Elvis Costello and Matthew Sweet.
Today we will have a taste of a song from her 1998 Grammy winning album Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, her first Gold album. The song was written by Randy Weeks of Lonesome Strangers.
Lucinda Williams "Can't Let Go"
When the Water Gets Muddy, It's Time for Some Blues
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It's been a long, cold week. Dear lord, I am in need of some serious blues. Serious blues.
McKinley Morganfield died April 30, 1983 at approximately 70 years of age. His date of birth has long been in question but his impact on the American blues scene has not. He has been ranked as one of the top 100 musicians of all time, and influenced virtually every American and British rock or blues group from the 60's. Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix, the Stones.. Hendrix is quoted as saying about him "I first heard him as a little boy and it scared me to death." The Rolling Stones got their name from one of his songs.
The king of Chicago Blues, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Hell, they even issued a postage stamp in his honor.
Still can't place the name? How about what his friends called him: Muddy Waters.
Let's just taste a few of his best tunes. They are bound to warm you from the inside out.
Mr. Muddy Waters
"Hoochie Coochie Man"
"Got My Mojo Working"
"Baby Please Don't Go"
"They Call Me Muddy Waters"
ah yes.
I know I'm feeling much, much better.
.
McKinley Morganfield died April 30, 1983 at approximately 70 years of age. His date of birth has long been in question but his impact on the American blues scene has not. He has been ranked as one of the top 100 musicians of all time, and influenced virtually every American and British rock or blues group from the 60's. Zeppelin, Cream, Hendrix, the Stones.. Hendrix is quoted as saying about him "I first heard him as a little boy and it scared me to death." The Rolling Stones got their name from one of his songs.The king of Chicago Blues, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Hell, they even issued a postage stamp in his honor.
Still can't place the name? How about what his friends called him: Muddy Waters.
Let's just taste a few of his best tunes. They are bound to warm you from the inside out.
Mr. Muddy Waters
"Hoochie Coochie Man"
"Got My Mojo Working"
"Baby Please Don't Go"
"They Call Me Muddy Waters"
ah yes.
I know I'm feeling much, much better.
.
The Song Remains the Same, or Does It: Ball and Chain
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When I think of the song "Ball and Chain" the version I immediately hear in my head is that of Janis Joplin. Hers was a cover of the Big Mama Thornton song "Ball 'n' Chain. Janis covered the song on her Cheap Thrills album, alongside Big Brother and the Holding Company.
Featuring a full out raw vocal, no one wailed the blues or made you feel them like Janis. This link is from 1967 Monterey Pop Festival and it a joy watching a legend in the making.
Janis Joplin "Ball and Chain"
There are a few different songs with this name, so I've tried to get a wide range of sounds. Next up is a polar opposite from the Joplin version. It is from a 1982 album by English band XTC and is a pop anthem if ever I heard one.
XTC "Ball and Chain"
Ok, coming back to real music, Elton John put a little country flavor to his take on the song. It was featured on his 1982 album Jump Up and features Pete Townshend on acoustic guitar.
Elton John "Ball and Chain"
And the last version is from a 80's-90's California based reggae/punk/ska band called Sublime. A medley of 5546/Ball and Chain. I'm just loving this song.
Sublime "Ball and Chain"
Pick a favorite, I still love Janis but the reggae flavor is keeping my feet moving.
.
When I think of the song "Ball and Chain" the version I immediately hear in my head is that of Janis Joplin. Hers was a cover of the Big Mama Thornton song "Ball 'n' Chain. Janis covered the song on her Cheap Thrills album, alongside Big Brother and the Holding Company.Featuring a full out raw vocal, no one wailed the blues or made you feel them like Janis. This link is from 1967 Monterey Pop Festival and it a joy watching a legend in the making.
Janis Joplin "Ball and Chain"
There are a few different songs with this name, so I've tried to get a wide range of sounds. Next up is a polar opposite from the Joplin version. It is from a 1982 album by English band XTC and is a pop anthem if ever I heard one.
XTC "Ball and Chain"
Ok, coming back to real music, Elton John put a little country flavor to his take on the song. It was featured on his 1982 album Jump Up and features Pete Townshend on acoustic guitar.
Elton John "Ball and Chain"
And the last version is from a 80's-90's California based reggae/punk/ska band called Sublime. A medley of 5546/Ball and Chain. I'm just loving this song.
Sublime "Ball and Chain"
Pick a favorite, I still love Janis but the reggae flavor is keeping my feet moving.
.
Dee Rock: "The Road Ain't Long" Album Review
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Out of Nashville comes country-rock artist Dee Rock.
Now I'm not known to be the biggest country fan around so in reviewing his album, I wasn't sure what to expect or how I would feel about it. Well, from the opening track "Ripples on the Moon," I was pleasantly surprised. Dee plays one hell of a hot guitar, rocks the melodies pretty hard and has some tasty lyrics. Oh yeah, his voice is pretty fine too.
It also seems Dee Rock has quite a love for Country and the Military. The album has one song "The Uniform," about the sacrifices of our servicemen, servicewomen and their families, along with a couple of other which you can hear on his website: "The Colors I Fly" and "Patriot Girl"
For the full review, as well as his bio and links to hiswebsite, where you can listen to all the album tracks, click here; Dee Rock album review at musicstaruniverse.com
.
Now I'm not known to be the biggest country fan around so in reviewing his album, I wasn't sure what to expect or how I would feel about it. Well, from the opening track "Ripples on the Moon," I was pleasantly surprised. Dee plays one hell of a hot guitar, rocks the melodies pretty hard and has some tasty lyrics. Oh yeah, his voice is pretty fine too.It also seems Dee Rock has quite a love for Country and the Military. The album has one song "The Uniform," about the sacrifices of our servicemen, servicewomen and their families, along with a couple of other which you can hear on his website: "The Colors I Fly" and "Patriot Girl"
For the full review, as well as his bio and links to hiswebsite, where you can listen to all the album tracks, click here; Dee Rock album review at musicstaruniverse.com
.
20 Şubat 2013 Çarşamba
KEVIN EUBANKS - THE MESSENGER
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With his second Mack Avenue Records release, The Messenger, acclaimed guitarist Kevin Eubanks continues to explore his own unique musical vision. This vision offers the listener an opportunity to share a musical journey that truly exemplifies where Eubanks is at this stage of his illustrious career; one that, for over three decades, has seen him incorporate into his creative process a willingness to embrace the broad spectrum of his musical experience, while continuing to seek out new vistas.
The Messenger is a project that reflects not only the guitarist's virtuosity on his instrument, but also his impressive compositional skills-writing all but two tracks. Best described simply as a "Kevin Eubanks" recording-without specific categorization-as his intent with The Messenger is to communicate the breadth of his artistic influences. "I wanted to branch out a little bit more on this recording," Eubanks states. "I didn't want to be as concerned with the 'jazz sound' as much; I wanted to let out a little bit more of what I've been musically exposed to." Eubanks compares this philosophy to sports: "It's like with professional athletes; most of those guys can play three or four sports. Society makes you choose one or the other. But that doesn't change who you are inside," or in Eubanks' case, preventing him from showcasing his versatility on this album.
From the infectious groove of the title track that begins the program, the guitarist gives notice that a unique listening experience is on the way. This album is: reflective-"Sister Veil," "Queen Of Hearts," "Loved Ones," "The Gloaming"; funky-"JB," a nod to James Brown; "Led Boots," a Jeff Beck tune; and John Coltrane's "Resolution," from A Love Supreme; and bluesy-"Ghost Dog Blues." One of the funkier tracks on this recording is Eubanks' arrangement of "Resolution" (with a vocal bass line sung by Alvin Chea of Take 6). "With 'Resolution,' I didn't want to be blasphemous, with people saying 'Oh, no, he didn't'," Eubanks laughs. "But I'm thinking, you know, that maybe Trane might dig it!" As for the blues: "I like playing the blues; I like to sit in and jam with Buddy Guy at his blues club in Chicago. If I had the opportunity, I'd play a lot more blues." These particular tracks provide Eubanks and his band with an opportunity to stretch out and essentially just jam. Eubanks ultimately reflects, "We wanted the groove to take over; also, those tunes will be fun to do live, and people will be able to sit in."
Eubanks is joined on most tracks by his sterling fellow quartet members: Billy Pierce on reeds, Rene Camacho on bass, Marvin "Smitty" Smith on drums and Joey De Leon, Jr. on percussion. This project also has a family flavor, featuring younger brother Duane on trumpet ("Sister Veil," "JB," "420"), and older brother Robin on trombone ("JB," "Queen Of Hearts"). For Eubanks, in addition to his brothers making valuable contributions to this recording, their involvement is representative of something more. "Their participation came about through some conversations that we've had, and I asked them if they'd like to be a part of the record. We've actually been talking about doing a family project for years, so their participation is really an entry to that."
Perhaps The Messenger's most distinctive element is its broad sense of musicality. This is certainly, in part, attributable to
Eubanks' experience with leading The Tonight Show with Jay Leno band for so many years. But it is much more than that. Eubanks' prestigious tenure there is probably more indicative of a situation that was a perfect fit for his musical personality. As Eubanks views it, ''to me, it's all just music."
For this album, it was important for Eubanks not only to embrace his musical philosophies, but also to reflect the common thread that exists throughout all of contemporary music; for example, the aforementioned rhythmic, funky, groove-oriented nature of several tracks on the project. "I love playing funk; I grew up playing it. The 'Motown Sound'? They were jazz musicians! If I had played '420' for some cats who are real 'funkateers,' they'd say, 'Whoa, I hear some Sly [Stone] in there, and I'm thinking, 'Ok, it looks like I'm good to go.' It felt good and very natural to me. As jazz musicians, we can play anything."
The Messenger is Eubanks' testament to being musically honest. It's a realization of what he feels is particularly important at this point of career and his life. "I feel that I'm at the point where I just have to be me," he says. "I want to do what has the most immediate honesty, and just lay it out." Throughout the album there is a feeling of exploration and revelation that invites the listener in. The guitarist never ceases to surprise, creating a program reflecting that honesty-offering a full range of moods, textures and tempos.
With this album, Kevin Eubanks takes another step in his evolution not only as a guitarist and composer, but also as a musical communicator. It's his way of making a statement about his personal view regarding the musical spectrum and its place in our lives, with sincere ideas of spreading the word to others. Arriving at the name of the title tune, Eubanks explains, "There is an urgency about it; it has the energy of a message that really should get across. The Messenger, I feel, is in everyone. We're at the point [in our lives], that whatever it is that you feel strongly about, that can help a person or persons that you love, or a situation that affects your life...you should let that message out".
By adding another sterling recording to his outstanding repertoire, Eubanks has done just that-let his message out. The Messenger is a project that not only showcases the outstanding technical facility from the guitarist and his bandmates, but also is full of music that is soulful and energetic, as well as emotive, earthy, with a touch of the blues. And for Kevin Eubanks, it represents a message successfully delivered.
Upcoming Kevin Eubanks Appearances:
February 22 & 23 / The Smith Center Cabaret Jazz / Las Vegas, NV
March 3 / Tower Theatre (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / Bend, OR
March 5 / Kirkland Performance Center (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / Kirkland, WA
March 9 / The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center / Huntingdon, TN
March 21 - 24 / Blues Alley / Washington, D.C.
April 6 / Cypress Creek Foundation / Spring, TX
April 9 - 13 / Birdland / New York, NY
May 17 / The Carolina Theatre (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / Durham, NC
May 18 / High Point Theatre (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / High Point, NC
June 12 / Pearson Lakes Art Center / Okoboji, IA
The Messenger - Track Listing/Personnel
1. The Messenger - 5:39
2. Sister Veil - 5:46
3. Resolution (John Coltrane) - 5:41
4. JB - 4:23
5. 420 - 4:20
6. Led Boots (Max Middleton) - 5:34
7. M.I.N.D. - 5:59
8. Queen Of Hearts - 3:49
9. The Gloaming - 5:28
10. Loved Ones - 4:07
11. Ghost Dog Blues - 5:24
All tracks composed by Kevin Eubanks (unless otherwise noted) // Produced by Kevin Eubanks // Kevin Eubanks / acoustic and electric guitar // Bill Pierce / tenor and soprano saxophone (all tracks except #6,#10) // Rene Camacho / bass (all tracks except #6,#10) // Marvin "Smitty" Smith drums / (all tracks except #8,#9,#10) // Special Guests: Robin Eubanks / trombone (#4 JB, #8 Queen Of Hearts) // Duane Eubanks / trumpet (#2 Sister, #4 JB, #420) // Alvin Chea / vocals (#3 Resolution, #6 Led Boots) // Joey De Leon / congas and percussion (#1 The Messenger, #5 420).
With his second Mack Avenue Records release, The Messenger, acclaimed guitarist Kevin Eubanks continues to explore his own unique musical vision. This vision offers the listener an opportunity to share a musical journey that truly exemplifies where Eubanks is at this stage of his illustrious career; one that, for over three decades, has seen him incorporate into his creative process a willingness to embrace the broad spectrum of his musical experience, while continuing to seek out new vistas. The Messenger is a project that reflects not only the guitarist's virtuosity on his instrument, but also his impressive compositional skills-writing all but two tracks. Best described simply as a "Kevin Eubanks" recording-without specific categorization-as his intent with The Messenger is to communicate the breadth of his artistic influences. "I wanted to branch out a little bit more on this recording," Eubanks states. "I didn't want to be as concerned with the 'jazz sound' as much; I wanted to let out a little bit more of what I've been musically exposed to." Eubanks compares this philosophy to sports: "It's like with professional athletes; most of those guys can play three or four sports. Society makes you choose one or the other. But that doesn't change who you are inside," or in Eubanks' case, preventing him from showcasing his versatility on this album.
From the infectious groove of the title track that begins the program, the guitarist gives notice that a unique listening experience is on the way. This album is: reflective-"Sister Veil," "Queen Of Hearts," "Loved Ones," "The Gloaming"; funky-"JB," a nod to James Brown; "Led Boots," a Jeff Beck tune; and John Coltrane's "Resolution," from A Love Supreme; and bluesy-"Ghost Dog Blues." One of the funkier tracks on this recording is Eubanks' arrangement of "Resolution" (with a vocal bass line sung by Alvin Chea of Take 6). "With 'Resolution,' I didn't want to be blasphemous, with people saying 'Oh, no, he didn't'," Eubanks laughs. "But I'm thinking, you know, that maybe Trane might dig it!" As for the blues: "I like playing the blues; I like to sit in and jam with Buddy Guy at his blues club in Chicago. If I had the opportunity, I'd play a lot more blues." These particular tracks provide Eubanks and his band with an opportunity to stretch out and essentially just jam. Eubanks ultimately reflects, "We wanted the groove to take over; also, those tunes will be fun to do live, and people will be able to sit in."
Eubanks is joined on most tracks by his sterling fellow quartet members: Billy Pierce on reeds, Rene Camacho on bass, Marvin "Smitty" Smith on drums and Joey De Leon, Jr. on percussion. This project also has a family flavor, featuring younger brother Duane on trumpet ("Sister Veil," "JB," "420"), and older brother Robin on trombone ("JB," "Queen Of Hearts"). For Eubanks, in addition to his brothers making valuable contributions to this recording, their involvement is representative of something more. "Their participation came about through some conversations that we've had, and I asked them if they'd like to be a part of the record. We've actually been talking about doing a family project for years, so their participation is really an entry to that."
Perhaps The Messenger's most distinctive element is its broad sense of musicality. This is certainly, in part, attributable to
Eubanks' experience with leading The Tonight Show with Jay Leno band for so many years. But it is much more than that. Eubanks' prestigious tenure there is probably more indicative of a situation that was a perfect fit for his musical personality. As Eubanks views it, ''to me, it's all just music."
For this album, it was important for Eubanks not only to embrace his musical philosophies, but also to reflect the common thread that exists throughout all of contemporary music; for example, the aforementioned rhythmic, funky, groove-oriented nature of several tracks on the project. "I love playing funk; I grew up playing it. The 'Motown Sound'? They were jazz musicians! If I had played '420' for some cats who are real 'funkateers,' they'd say, 'Whoa, I hear some Sly [Stone] in there, and I'm thinking, 'Ok, it looks like I'm good to go.' It felt good and very natural to me. As jazz musicians, we can play anything."
The Messenger is Eubanks' testament to being musically honest. It's a realization of what he feels is particularly important at this point of career and his life. "I feel that I'm at the point where I just have to be me," he says. "I want to do what has the most immediate honesty, and just lay it out." Throughout the album there is a feeling of exploration and revelation that invites the listener in. The guitarist never ceases to surprise, creating a program reflecting that honesty-offering a full range of moods, textures and tempos.
With this album, Kevin Eubanks takes another step in his evolution not only as a guitarist and composer, but also as a musical communicator. It's his way of making a statement about his personal view regarding the musical spectrum and its place in our lives, with sincere ideas of spreading the word to others. Arriving at the name of the title tune, Eubanks explains, "There is an urgency about it; it has the energy of a message that really should get across. The Messenger, I feel, is in everyone. We're at the point [in our lives], that whatever it is that you feel strongly about, that can help a person or persons that you love, or a situation that affects your life...you should let that message out".
By adding another sterling recording to his outstanding repertoire, Eubanks has done just that-let his message out. The Messenger is a project that not only showcases the outstanding technical facility from the guitarist and his bandmates, but also is full of music that is soulful and energetic, as well as emotive, earthy, with a touch of the blues. And for Kevin Eubanks, it represents a message successfully delivered.
Upcoming Kevin Eubanks Appearances:
February 22 & 23 / The Smith Center Cabaret Jazz / Las Vegas, NV
March 3 / Tower Theatre (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / Bend, OR
March 5 / Kirkland Performance Center (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / Kirkland, WA
March 9 / The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center / Huntingdon, TN
March 21 - 24 / Blues Alley / Washington, D.C.
April 6 / Cypress Creek Foundation / Spring, TX
April 9 - 13 / Birdland / New York, NY
May 17 / The Carolina Theatre (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / Durham, NC
May 18 / High Point Theatre (double bill w/ Stanley Jordan) / High Point, NC
June 12 / Pearson Lakes Art Center / Okoboji, IA
The Messenger - Track Listing/Personnel
1. The Messenger - 5:39
2. Sister Veil - 5:46
3. Resolution (John Coltrane) - 5:41
4. JB - 4:23
5. 420 - 4:20
6. Led Boots (Max Middleton) - 5:34
7. M.I.N.D. - 5:59
8. Queen Of Hearts - 3:49
9. The Gloaming - 5:28
10. Loved Ones - 4:07
11. Ghost Dog Blues - 5:24
All tracks composed by Kevin Eubanks (unless otherwise noted) // Produced by Kevin Eubanks // Kevin Eubanks / acoustic and electric guitar // Bill Pierce / tenor and soprano saxophone (all tracks except #6,#10) // Rene Camacho / bass (all tracks except #6,#10) // Marvin "Smitty" Smith drums / (all tracks except #8,#9,#10) // Special Guests: Robin Eubanks / trombone (#4 JB, #8 Queen Of Hearts) // Duane Eubanks / trumpet (#2 Sister, #4 JB, #420) // Alvin Chea / vocals (#3 Resolution, #6 Led Boots) // Joey De Leon / congas and percussion (#1 The Messenger, #5 420).
NEW RELEASES - GIACOMO GATES, JIM ROTONDI AND THE LOOP, PHILIP CATHERINE
To contact us Click HERE
GIACOMO GATES - MILES TONES: GIACOMO GATES SINGS THE SONGS OF MILES DAVIS
Here, performing music written by and associated with Miles Davis, vocalist Giacomo Gates proves, as he did with his historic Gil Scott-Heron recording, that great music is not bound to the instrument on which it was created. Though there are notable contributions from pianist John di Martino , laying down some tasty changes, and Freddie Hendrix sounding quite Miles-like in his muted utterances this disc is all about Giacomo Gates joyously creating music both carefully rehearsed and on the spot while all the time spreading that joy to his audience. ~ Amazon.com
JIM ROTONDI AND THE LOOP - HARD HITTIN' AT THE BIRD'S EYE
Sharp Nine Records is pleased to present the debut recording of a hot new organ quartet, The Loop, led by hard bop trumpet master Jim Rotondi and assisted on the front line by his longtime partner in jazz pyrotechnics, Eric Alexander. This live date was recorded at the Bird's Eye Jazz Club in Basel, Switzerland during the band's initial European tour in early 2012 and features the same hard-hitting, hard-swinging vibe jazz fans have come to expect from these two horn masters' domestic exploits. Ably assisted by Renato Chicco on organ and up-and-coming drummer Bernd Reiter, this CD is a 50/50 mix of great standards and originals. The tracks are long and the blowing is intense, so sit back and enjoy some heavy hittin' from across the pond. ~ Amazon.com
PHILIP CATHERINE - COTE JARDIN
Philip Catherine, who recently turned 70, shows that he is as strong and original as ever and a big inspiration to younger generation musicians! Has worked with Chet Baker, Niels Henning Ørsted Pedersen, Larry Coryell, Stéphane Grappelli, Charles Mingus, Dexter Gordon, and more. CD covers a wide scope of moods, colors, grooves, and emotions. Repertoire consists of original compositions as well as standards and works by Nicola Andrioli. ~ Amazon.com
GIACOMO GATES - MILES TONES: GIACOMO GATES SINGS THE SONGS OF MILES DAVISHere, performing music written by and associated with Miles Davis, vocalist Giacomo Gates proves, as he did with his historic Gil Scott-Heron recording, that great music is not bound to the instrument on which it was created. Though there are notable contributions from pianist John di Martino , laying down some tasty changes, and Freddie Hendrix sounding quite Miles-like in his muted utterances this disc is all about Giacomo Gates joyously creating music both carefully rehearsed and on the spot while all the time spreading that joy to his audience. ~ Amazon.com
JIM ROTONDI AND THE LOOP - HARD HITTIN' AT THE BIRD'S EYESharp Nine Records is pleased to present the debut recording of a hot new organ quartet, The Loop, led by hard bop trumpet master Jim Rotondi and assisted on the front line by his longtime partner in jazz pyrotechnics, Eric Alexander. This live date was recorded at the Bird's Eye Jazz Club in Basel, Switzerland during the band's initial European tour in early 2012 and features the same hard-hitting, hard-swinging vibe jazz fans have come to expect from these two horn masters' domestic exploits. Ably assisted by Renato Chicco on organ and up-and-coming drummer Bernd Reiter, this CD is a 50/50 mix of great standards and originals. The tracks are long and the blowing is intense, so sit back and enjoy some heavy hittin' from across the pond. ~ Amazon.com
PHILIP CATHERINE - COTE JARDINPhilip Catherine, who recently turned 70, shows that he is as strong and original as ever and a big inspiration to younger generation musicians! Has worked with Chet Baker, Niels Henning Ørsted Pedersen, Larry Coryell, Stéphane Grappelli, Charles Mingus, Dexter Gordon, and more. CD covers a wide scope of moods, colors, grooves, and emotions. Repertoire consists of original compositions as well as standards and works by Nicola Andrioli. ~ Amazon.com
NEW RELEASES - BLUEY, MICKY BAKER, THE JAZZFAKERS
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BLUEY - LEAP OF FAITH
After 15 albums with Incognito, the band’s driving force Jean-Paul ‘Bluey’ Maunick has recorded his debut solo album. Very rarely featured as a vocalist on any of the band’s albums, Bluey impresses in handling all the vocals on “Leap of Faith”. Co-produced and co-written with one of his long standing collaborators Richard Bull, the album ranges from dance anthems to funk to modern soul classics such as lead single “Got To Let My Feelings Show”. His solo debut is both a surprise and a delight, featuring as it does both lead and backing vocals from this most reluctant of singers. “I have always felt comfortable leading from the back – guiding others and bringing out the best of their artistry,” he says. “This past year was the first time I felt a compelling desire to bare my soul in this way with what one of my friends called my musical autobiography.” Bluey has fashioned a truly impressive, soulful album, with stunning falsetto performances and stand-out house tracks “Ain’t Nobody’s Business” and “Why Did I Let You Go?”, as well as the laid back jazzy soul of “Take A Chance On Me and “Stronger”.
MICKY BAKER - JAZZ ROCK GUITAR [ENHANCED]
Born in Louisville, Kentucky in 1925, Mickey Baker first noticed music via youthful street jug bands. He lived for 87 years. Mickey recorded and wrote the perennial hit Love Is Strange with Mickey & Sylvia. In his later years Mickey went back to his roots of blues, jazz and rock. His solo blues playing took him around Europe and Africa. On his last tour of Africa he was joined by the bass player Alex Sanders and Mickey's show was able to expand to the full gambit of his musical experiences - from country blues to jazz. During this tour Alex and Mickey started to compose together and decided to try and record an album that would highlight their sounds and explorations. This is in fact the first solo jazz rock guitar album that Mickey ever recorded and it is full of intriguing and wonderful sounds from a rendition of Rachmaninoff's Prelude In C# Minor to the disco sound of Alexander's Funk Time to the 7/4 of Ouagadougou. Mickey has combined his skills of being one of the finest jazz guitarists with those of a guitar teacher and prepared a tab/music booklet for this project. This booklet is included on the enhanced CD as a PDF file. ~ Amazon.com
THE JAZZFAKERS - HERE IS NOW
Confused, driven, and curious, the JazzFakers come alive from eons of pulsing sound waves. the JazzFakers quartet emerged from the chaotic New York music scene in 2008. The idea originated from saxophonist/keyboardist David Tamura who runs the New York City Experimental Music Meet-Ups, (former projects of David s are Charles K.Noyes, Von LMO). During this time, David teamed up with drummer Steve Orbach, and multi-instrumentalist Robert L. Pepper of avant garde experimentalists PAS, later to add bassist Raphael Zwyer to complete the project. (In 2013, Matt Luczak has taken the role of drums/percussion). The JazzFakers incorporate various forms of music including jazz, avant garde, noise, improv, and minimalism, along with a few mainstream hooks, to develop a new cutting edge sound which can only be described as beautifully schizophrenic and original. Over the past few years the JazzFakers have coordinated various events in the New York area including the New York City Experi-MENTAL Festival and have played numerous gigs trying to network and develop a community of like minded individuals to resurrect the New York City music scene. the JazzFakers sound matured and in 2010 they released their first self-titled album (at that time still with their former bassist Isaac Taylor) recorded and mixed by Martin Bisi, legendary producer of artists such as John Zorn, Bill Laswell, and Jim Thirlwell. ~ Amazon.com
BLUEY - LEAP OF FAITHAfter 15 albums with Incognito, the band’s driving force Jean-Paul ‘Bluey’ Maunick has recorded his debut solo album. Very rarely featured as a vocalist on any of the band’s albums, Bluey impresses in handling all the vocals on “Leap of Faith”. Co-produced and co-written with one of his long standing collaborators Richard Bull, the album ranges from dance anthems to funk to modern soul classics such as lead single “Got To Let My Feelings Show”. His solo debut is both a surprise and a delight, featuring as it does both lead and backing vocals from this most reluctant of singers. “I have always felt comfortable leading from the back – guiding others and bringing out the best of their artistry,” he says. “This past year was the first time I felt a compelling desire to bare my soul in this way with what one of my friends called my musical autobiography.” Bluey has fashioned a truly impressive, soulful album, with stunning falsetto performances and stand-out house tracks “Ain’t Nobody’s Business” and “Why Did I Let You Go?”, as well as the laid back jazzy soul of “Take A Chance On Me and “Stronger”.
MICKY BAKER - JAZZ ROCK GUITAR [ENHANCED]Born in Louisville, Kentucky in 1925, Mickey Baker first noticed music via youthful street jug bands. He lived for 87 years. Mickey recorded and wrote the perennial hit Love Is Strange with Mickey & Sylvia. In his later years Mickey went back to his roots of blues, jazz and rock. His solo blues playing took him around Europe and Africa. On his last tour of Africa he was joined by the bass player Alex Sanders and Mickey's show was able to expand to the full gambit of his musical experiences - from country blues to jazz. During this tour Alex and Mickey started to compose together and decided to try and record an album that would highlight their sounds and explorations. This is in fact the first solo jazz rock guitar album that Mickey ever recorded and it is full of intriguing and wonderful sounds from a rendition of Rachmaninoff's Prelude In C# Minor to the disco sound of Alexander's Funk Time to the 7/4 of Ouagadougou. Mickey has combined his skills of being one of the finest jazz guitarists with those of a guitar teacher and prepared a tab/music booklet for this project. This booklet is included on the enhanced CD as a PDF file. ~ Amazon.com
THE JAZZFAKERS - HERE IS NOWConfused, driven, and curious, the JazzFakers come alive from eons of pulsing sound waves. the JazzFakers quartet emerged from the chaotic New York music scene in 2008. The idea originated from saxophonist/keyboardist David Tamura who runs the New York City Experimental Music Meet-Ups, (former projects of David s are Charles K.Noyes, Von LMO). During this time, David teamed up with drummer Steve Orbach, and multi-instrumentalist Robert L. Pepper of avant garde experimentalists PAS, later to add bassist Raphael Zwyer to complete the project. (In 2013, Matt Luczak has taken the role of drums/percussion). The JazzFakers incorporate various forms of music including jazz, avant garde, noise, improv, and minimalism, along with a few mainstream hooks, to develop a new cutting edge sound which can only be described as beautifully schizophrenic and original. Over the past few years the JazzFakers have coordinated various events in the New York area including the New York City Experi-MENTAL Festival and have played numerous gigs trying to network and develop a community of like minded individuals to resurrect the New York City music scene. the JazzFakers sound matured and in 2010 they released their first self-titled album (at that time still with their former bassist Isaac Taylor) recorded and mixed by Martin Bisi, legendary producer of artists such as John Zorn, Bill Laswell, and Jim Thirlwell. ~ Amazon.com
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