Brendan Benson- My Old, Familiar Friend

I first heard Brendan Benson while tracking down some Jason Falkner demos someone told me about. This was back in 1995, and as it turned out, the songs I got hold of were actually Brendan Benson demos that featured Jason Falkner. Since then, both Benson and Falkner have released some of my favorite records of the last 10 years. The demos I mentioned ended up on Benson's 1996 release "One Mississippi," an album that can slap you like an early Who record and then sweeten you up like a Colin Blunstone ballad.

Benson has quietly released 2 more brilliant records, 2002's "Lapalco," and 2005's "The Alternative To Love," as well as loudly been part of Jack White's middle side project "The Raconteurs." All fine stuff, these records here. But it is what hits the street tomorrow, where Brendan Benson may take over the world.

"My Old Familiar Friend," Benson's 4th solo record is not only the best of his career, but a sure fire candidate for the one of the best records of the year.



You can listen to the whole thing HERE, but be forewarned, once you start, you may not stop.


The formula hasn't changed; great riffs, killer hooks, big choruses and smart lyrics. Benson's transition from New Wave rocker on one song to Motown crooner on another is as smooth as silk. "My Old, Familiar Friend" plays like a greatest hits CD, with every song better than the next. I've had this CD for a month and each time I play it, I am truly sorry when it is over.

OK, enough gushing for a Monday morning.

If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Street Date: 4/24/12

JACK WHITE- BLUNDERBUSS

There are moments here and there on "Blunderbuss," just as there were moments on the records by The White Stripes and even a few on the two records by The Dead Weather that grabbed my attention. Rhythms, riffs, beats and sounds that seem like good ideas, but when put together and constructed as songs, simply don't cut it...for me.  Underneath all the gimmicks (and yes, even if you're a die-hard fan, you can't deny White's career has been very gimmicky)---the silence-to-rage vocals, the squeaky wheel vocals, the psychotic dynamics, for starters ---you will find songs that are just slightly above mediocre.  The one tune on "Blunderbuss" that really works is a cover of Little Willie John's "I'm Shakin'." The arrangement is fully realized and it is nothing short of brilliant. But, the words and melody were already there for Mr White.

The one and only time I saw The White Stripes play live, I was blown away, both by Jack White's guitar playing and by Meg White's oft-maligned drumming. Nothing, on any of their studio recordings ever hit me with the wallop they packed on the stage. I recognize Jack White's talent on the six-string, but other than The Raconteurs, whose records I love mostly because of Brendan Benson, I find Jack White to be one of the most overrated rock stars of our time.

It's here:
http://www.amazon.com/Blunderbuss-Jack-White/dp/B007CKNX28/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1335266997&sr=1-1


AND SPEAKING OF....

BRENDAN BENSON- WHAT KIND OF WORLD

Benson's last solo release "My Old, Familiar Friend" was one of my favorite records of 2009. It may have even been #1, I'd have to check the archives.  Smart power-pop, with an occasional touch of whatever he may be feeling at the time, including punk and soul, Brendan Benson adds a touch of class to it all. On "What Kind Of World," he is back in a big way. The formula is the same, only this time he has Jon Auer & Ken Stringfellow of The Posies, as well as Ashley Monroe of the Pistol Annies on board.

The songs are darker, as Benson writes about his recent break-up, but I have to admit, that's right in my wheelhouse, with big choruses and enough hooks to snag a flounder. By my third pass through, I was already placing "What Kind Of World" in my year-end Top Ten.

GET IT HERE
http://www.amazon.com/What-Kind-World-Brendan-Benson/dp/B007IX39JQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1335268315&sr=1-1

WARREN HAYNES BAND- LIVE AT THE MOODY THEATRE (2 CDS & 1 DVD)

Between The Allman Brothers, The Dead, solo shows, guest appearances and his own band Gov't Mule, I'm pretty sure the tireless Warren Haynes has had no more than about 15 days off in the last 20 years. And of all those bands I just mentioned, I have to admit, though I love them all, it was Haynes' last solo record, "Man In Motion" I loved best. Here's what I said about it:

Inspired by one of Haynes' musical idols, Little Milton, and featuring a New Orleans rhythm section of George Porter Jr. and Terrence Higgins, Haynes delivers the perfect combination of Southern R&B, with just a taste of the extended jamming all of his employers are known for. He never takes it too far, and that is what makes "Man In Motion" work.


Well, "Live At The Moody Theatre" takes it a little further, but not necessarily too far. This live document captures Hayes and his band at what they do best...if you're into that kind of thing. I am, and this one is a winner. Songs from "Man In Motion" are represented of course, as well as a few choice covers, such as Steely Dan's "Pretzel Logic" and Jimi's "Spanish Castle Magic."



IT'S HERE
http://www.amazon.com/Live-The-Moody-Theater-1DVD/dp/B00772M1QA/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1335268479&sr=1-1

BILLY BRAGG & WILCO- MERMAID AVENUE COMPLETE

You know it. You love it. And now it's bigger, with a third disc of unreleased tunes from the sessions and in a nice little box.

HERE
http://www.amazon.com/Mermaid-Avenue-The-Complete-Sessions/dp/B0072X2NHQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1335269099&sr=1-1




ALSO OUT THIS WEEK-----

CAROLE KING- THE LEGENDARY DEMOS

PETER GABRIEL- NEW BLOOD (LIVE)

THE DANDY WARHOLS- THIS MACHINE

THE WACO BROTHERS & PAUL BURCH- GREAT CHICAGO FIRE

MARTY STUART- NASHVILLE VOL.1: TEAR THE WOODPILE DOWN

The New Sell Out

Do you remember this?

Swag's time in the spotlight was all too fleeting, not to mention that said spotlight never really got above 25 watts, anyhow.

Here was a power pop "supergroup" consisting of members, official or honorary, of Cheap Trick, Wilco, The Mavericks, and Sixpence None The Richer, as well as Doug Powell, Todd Rundgren (who overdubbed Trick bassist Tom Petersson's bass parts for a re-release when Cheap Trick's management decided to give a shit and demand all Cheap Trick memorabilia be removed from the album cover, as well as any of Petersson's involvement), Bill Lloyd, and producer Brad Jones.






That was from something I posted in 2011. You can read all of that post HERE.


There was one small detail from that post that caught the eye of reader Cryptique.


I've been obsessed ever since, especially knowing they recorded a cover of The Who's "Early Morning Cold Taxi" for a still unreleased tribute.  (Please! Find that for me.)

Well, Mr Cryptique, you've outdone yourself.

Here's what I found in my in-box:

Put together 12 years ago and gathering cobwebs ever since, The New Sell Out is finally out! Dedicated to Rick McBrien, the soul of Futureman. Thanks to every contributing artist and everyone who worked on this! Full liner notes and artwork included in download.

P.S. Like the original, these tracks connect with each other. For best results, please burn a -gapless- cd!

credits 

released 28 May 2012

The New Sell Out – Futureman Records 




Reading like a power pop fan's wet dream with performances by Brendan Benson, The Shazam, Mitch Easter, The Grip Weeds, and of course SWAG, this long lost tribute to my favorite record by The Who finally sees the light of day.

FULL TRACK LIST


Monday – Mike Giblin

1. Armenia City In The Sky - Paranoid Lovesick

Whoopie - Mike Giblin

2. Heinz Baked Beans - The Andersons

More Music – Cockeyed Ghost

3. Mary Anne With The Shaky Hands - The Phenomenal Cats

Premier Drums – Barely Pink

Bah Bah – Ed James

4. Odorono- The Atomic Numbers

Smooth Sailing - Brendan Benson

5. Tattoo - The Jigsaw Seen

Church of Your Choice - Linus Of Hollywood

6. Our Love Was - Splitsville

Big L - Ed James

Rotosound Strings - Mitch Easter

7. I Can See For Miles - The Shazam

Charles Atlas - John P. Strohm

8. I Can't Reach You - Chris von Sneidern

9. Medac - Brendan Benson

10. Relax - Cloud Eleven

Rotosound Strings (demo) - The Jellybricks

11. Silas Stingy - Zumpano

12. Sunrise - Willie Wisely

13. Rael - Myracle Brah

Top Gear - Fundaro & Moll

14 Commercial Break

Pt 2. Welcome - Rodney Bingenheimer

Radio London - The Rubinoos

Pro-Stripe - The Breetles

Great Shakes - The Magic Christians

15. Glittering Girl - The Flashing Lights

16. Commercial Break

Radio London - Double Naught Spies

Mullet Man - P. Hux

Gino's Hair Cappucino - DM3

17. Melancholia - The Grip Weeds

18. Commercial Break

Coke - Fundaro & Moll

Dr. Giggle's Ginsing Root - Devin Hill

Radio London - Roger McGuinn

John Mason - The Jellybricks

19. Jaguar - Jim Babjak's Buzzed Meg

20. Commercial Break

Radio London - The Masticators

Dizzy Mouse - The Masticators

Spaz Cola - Ed James

Radio London - The Merrymakers

21. Someone's Coming - The Pearlfishers

22. Commercial Break

Radio London - Bobby Sutliff

Coke - The Anderson Council

Yellow Pilsner - John McMullen

Radio London - The Chevelles

23. Early Morning, Cold Taxi - SWAG

24. Commercial Break

Radio London - Bingo Durango

Jock-A-Lot - The Popdudes

Top Popsicles - crash into june

Great Shakes - The Absolute Zeros

Radio London - Heavy Blinkers

25. Glow Girl - The Vandalias

Track Records - R. Stevie Moore

26. Bonus Track: Doctor, Doctor – Brendan Benson


Words fail me.

Thank you Cryptique and thank you Futureman Records.

Now go buy it HERE for a paltry sum of money, $7.

Dear Life

I first wrote about Brendan Benson in 2009. His release, "My Old Familiar Friend" was one of my favorite records of the year. As I am wont to do, I went back to previous Benson music and got reacquainted, enjoying both "One Mississippi" and "Lapalco" immensely.

Since 2009, Benson has left me rather cold. I was not a fan of either "What Kind Of World" and "You Are Here." Both were fine records, but neither had the punch of "My Old Familiar Friend." Good, but not great records that rarely called me back the way a great record should.

But now, Brendan Benson is back in my good graces with his April 2020 release, "Dear Life." This record reminds me of "My Old Familiar Friend" in many ways, with a diverse collection of styles all under one roof, and some truly solid songwriting, rife with enough hooks to snag a pike.

Check out two of my faves.

Favorite Records Of 2009

I'm an ardent defender of pop music. A good record is a good record and it shouldn't matter who made it. I've been known to get a little stupid in defense of a good pop tune. I love the Pet Shop Boys because they make great records. Pre-breakdown Britney had some very catchy singles, too. When was the last time you really listened to "Back For Good" by Take That? Absolutely gorgeous. And once a year, I feel I have to profess my love for the Backstreet Boys "I Want It That Way." But before I get to my favorite records of 2009, I want to go on record as saying that there is nothing worse, nothing more offensive than the popularity and success of Lady Gaga. She gets my vote for worst EVERYTHING of 2009! Worst movie of 2009? Lady Gaga. Worst restaurant? Lady Gaga. Worst airline? You ga-got it. LADY GAGA.

Lady Gaga makes Tiffany look like Ethel Waters.

I'm through.

And now--



MY FAVORITE RECORDS OF 2009


(in alphabetical order)





BRENDAN BENSON- MY OLD, FAMILIAR FRIEND
The best review I can give Benson's 4th solo album is that I played this record more than any other record this year. The first week it was in my possession, it basically served as the soundtrack to my day. Brendan Benson serves up some pop perfection on a dozen songs, with not so subtle nods to the British Invasion, Motown, and New Wave. Hook after hook, harmony upon harmony, "My Old, Familiar Friend" consistently satisfies. Check out "Feel A Whole Lot Better" and "Garbage Day" and you'll be hooked.







BLACK CROWES- BEFORE THE FROST...UNTIL THE FREEZE
The uneven studio output of the Brothers Robinson has given us the great, "Shake Your Money Maker," "The Southern Harmony & Musical Companion," and "By Your Side" and the horrible "Lions" and Warpaint." But I have seen The Black Crowes multiple times on every tour since their first and they have never disappointed me. So it was a good idea to record their new album, "Before The Frost..." in front of a small, live audience at Levon Helm's Woodstock Barn, where the magic has finally been captured. This is what the boys do best; Faces-inspired rockers, The Band-inspired ballads, and the southern soul Chris & Rich Robinson were born to play. "...Until The Freeze, the bonus download disc doesn't fare as well. But it's got enough on it to keep everyone happy.







ROSANNE CASH- THE LIST
I hope we all know the story by now. Early on in Miss Cash's career, her very famous dad gave her a list of 100 essential songs. "The List" features 12 of them, or at least what Rosanne recalls being on the list. The new book "Always Been There: Rosanne Cash, The List, and The Spirit Of Southern Music" explains, among many other things, that the "list" was safely misplaced (my words). No matter. Both the book, and the CD are two of my favorite things of the year. What Rosanne Cash and producer/husband John Leventhal bring to this collection is not just another standard reading of country standards. Instead, every song here, no matter how many times you think you've heard it, (songs like "Sea Of Heartbreak," "Take These Chains," and "Long Black Veil,") has been reinvented, not so much to damage the legend, but just enough to let Rosanne Cash shine.







ALEX MCMURRAY- HOW TO BE A CANNONBALL
My first introduction to Alex McMurray was a song called "Bad Apples" by his band Royal Fingerbowl. I couldn't believe my ears. There was nothing like it. A truly kick-ass stomp of a song and certainly one of the nastiest ever written. I have been a fan of Alex's ever since and 10 years later, he has released one of the best records of the year. As Threadhead Records' Chris Joseph stated, "McMurray is the make believe stepchild of Tom Waits and Randy Newman." I'd like to add that "Cannonball" is the perfect combination of love, humor, pathos, and insanity. And back in the good old days, this record would have been an FM radio staple and Alex McMurray would be selling out 500 seaters across the country. You should get lost in this record.







PEARL JAM- BACKSPACER
It's been a long time since Pearl Jam put something out, that to my ears, had anything remotely exciting as the material on their first two albums which are now over 15 years old. "Backspacer" is not only that record, I will go on record as saying it is the best record of their career. Clocking in at a cool 38 minutes, "Backspacer" has so much melody and so much energy, not since the classic records of the 60s and 70s has a record packed such a consistent wallop. And Eddie Vedder has come a long way as a singer and songwriter. Must be from hanging out with Pete Townshend, Neil Young, and Neil Finn because all three of them show up in spirit on this wonderful record. 2 best moments- "Just Breathe" and "Speed Of Sound," beautiful ballads that belie the grungy past of this now legendary band.










JOHN SCOFIELD- PIETY STREET
Legendary jazz guitarist John Scofield has enlisted some of New Orleans' finest, including George Porter Jr., Jon Cleary, and John Boutte, as well as the great, underrated Ricky Fataar on drums, for a new spin on traditional Gospel music. I loved this record right out of the box. It's not traditional nor does it stray very far from the spirit or meaning of the repertoire. What these seasoned players accomplish is fresh, exciting, uplifiting and soulful.







BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN- WORKING ON A DREAM
This wasn't going to make the Top Ten, but not for the right reasons. I am pretty sure I trashed a good portion of this record when it was first released. Plus, "Outlaw Pete" continues to confound me. (I really hate it.) But not giving this record the credit it deserves simply because it's not the record you want out of Bruce is also wrong. Repeated listens begat repeated listens. That is exactly what good music should do. With each play I discovered something more amazing. It's a big and bold pop record, which yes, at times, gets a bit bogged down in its own production. But the pastiche pieces that evoke everyone from The Byrds to The Beach Boys to Phil Spector and back, are from the heart, even if Bruce isn't writing about state troopers and ex-cons. Start with track 2 and just forget "Meeting Across The River" for 45 minutes. "Working On A Dream," released by anyone else, would be on a lot of Top Ten lists.







ALLEN TOUSSAINT - THE BRIGHT MISSISSIPPI
Producer Joe Henry, and some of the greatest names in jazz including Don Byron, Nicholas Payton, Marc Ribot, Brad Mehldau and Joshua Redman help New Orleans' legend Allen Toussaint interpret some of the greatest music ever written. Songs such as "West End Blues," "Dear Old Southland," "St. James Infirmary" and "Just A Closer Walk With Thee" stay melodically true to the originals, but are given something special thanks to the stellar line-up involved. This is a beautiful piece of work and a record that finally gets to show the amazing piano playing of its leader, Allen Toussaint.






KRISTINA TRAIN- SPILT MILK
Sheryl Crow, Norah Jones, Shelby Lynne, and most recently Duffy have all had success channeling Dusty Springfield. But as good as these ladies are, no one has nailed it like newcomer Kristina Train. Every song is a stunning heartbreaker, with Miss Train's soulful voice wrapping around some of the most memorable melodies of the year. "Spilt Milk" is a winner, top to bottom.




U2- NO LINE ON THE HORIZON
Don't hate him because he is Bono. You'd just be denying yourself one of the best records of U2's career and one of the best of 2009. This band gets better and better. Songs like the first single "Get On Your Boots" and "I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy" are relentlessly catchy, while Bono, The Edge, Adam and Larry continue to seep into your soul with big and beautful ballads like "Moment Of Surrender." Great, great stuff from a great, great band.



THE REST OF MY FAVORITES OF 2009


ELVIS COSTELLO- SECRET, PROFANE SUGARCANE
Elvis sticks his toe into some CBGB (country, bluegrass and blues- BUT YOU KNEW THAT) with great success.

MARSHALL CRENSHAW- JAGGEDLAND
Almost 30 years after one of the greatest debuts in music, Crenshaw returns with his strongest work in years.

LEVON HELM- ELECTRIC DIRT
Levon's voice and Levon's drumming--enough said.

IAN HUNTER- MAN OVERBOARD
At 70, Ian Hunter continues to make relevant music. Beautiful, understated, and completely Ian.

BUDDY & JULIE MILLER- WRITTEN IN CHALK
No one does country honk and heartbreak like Buddy & Julie. This is the best work of their very solid career.

MILES NIELSEN- MILES
Son of Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen, oddly sounds more like Robin Zander, on this smart debut filled with influence from John Lennon, Harry Nilsson, and of course, Cheap Trick.

PAUL SANCHEZ & JOHN BOUTTE- STEW CALLED NEW ORLEANS
Two of New Orleans' best, team-up for some down home swing and soul...and blues...and jazz...and...well... if you know anything about these two artists, you'll agree, this is the album you wanted them to make.

7 WORLDS COLLIDE- THE SUN CAME OUT
Conceived by Neil Finn and brought to reality with the help of Wilco, members of Radiohead, Eddie Vedder, K.T. Tunstall and Tim Finn, this is the result of two weeks of recording, living, hanging, eating drinking and sharing, with proceeds going to Oxfam. Truly a band effort.

GERAINT WATKINS- IN A BAD MOOD
Welsh keyboardist and long time Nick Lowe sideman Watkins serves up his own brand of Cajun honky tonk. One of the most original records of the year.

WILCO- WILCO (THE ALBUM)
Chicago's finest is back with their most accessible and melodic album in ages.

And that's the lot. Tomorrow, the music continues...in a big way.

Songs Of The Week, 2020: 6/27-7/3

Ordinary Girl- Mike & The Mechanics
No Religion- Van Morrison
Me Just Purely- Brendan Benson
Call Me Mellow- Tears For Fears
Growing Up (Trent Reznor Remix)- Peter Gabriel
Meteor Shower- Rhett Miller
Another World- World Party




Ordinary Girl- Mike & The Mechanic
There is a fantastic 3 CD or 2 LP set covering Paul Carrack's career with everyone from Ace and Squeeze to Mike & The Mechanics and various side projects and guests spot. It's called "Collected,"and amazingly this wonderful single is not on it. FAIL!

No Religion- Van Morrison
I would not be lying if I said "No Religion" is one of my five favorite Van tracks. It is also on one of five Van records nearly impossible to track down on vinyl for less than $100. Anyone have a vinyl copy of "Days Like This" they'd like to give up? Let me know. I'll pay shipping. :)

Me Just Purely- Brendan Benson
Benson's excellent new record "Dear Life" inspired me to go back and listen to his excellent debut, "One Mississippi." That's where you'll find this song.

Call Me Mellow- Tears For Fears
And speaking of favorite albums, TFF's "Everybody Loves A Happy Ending" is mine, by them. (Is that good English? Not sure, me.) But yes, this "comeback" was solid from head to tail, and this pop gem is a perfect three and a half minutes. Someone find me the vinyl on this baby! I'll pay shipping. :)

Growing Up (Trent Reznor Remix)- Peter Gabriel
About as close as you'll get to a Gabriel/Nine Inch Nails collaboration. Just discovered this on a digital only set of Gabriel stray tracks called "Flotsam & Jetsam," but it has been floating around on a single since 2003.

Meteor Shower- Rhett Miller

"I cannot make light I'm so burnt out, I know where you are, I cannot believe how much it hurts, I'm a fallen star" Damn, Rhett! I'm sorry. But wow, what a track.

  

Another World- World Party

Found deep into the 5 CD World Party rarities set, "Arkeology," this is currently my new favorite Karl Wallinger tune.

 

zip

New Brendan Benson

 

There's a new Brendan Benson record due in December. This is the first single. I haven't been wowed since 2009's "My Old Familiar Friend," though there are always a handful of gems on every Benson record. 

If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Street Date - 08/18/09

BRENDAN BENSON- MY OLD, FAMILIAR FRIEND

4th release from pop-rocking, Raconteur Benson. See yesterday's post for details please.





THE CULT- LOVE (EXPANDED)

I don't think it's a stretch to call this record a classic. Not much prior or since feels as convincing as The Cult's hard-rocking goth on this 1985 release, now expanded to 2 CDs to include all b-sides, as well as every remix of the hit "She Sells Sanctuary." "YAA-YUH!" (That's my Ian Astbury impersonation.)





COLIN HAY- AMERICAN SUNSHINE

The man is still at work. (sorry) Colin Hay releases his 10th solo LP since Men At Work disbanded and its lazy, third rate, singer-songwriter, James Taylor outtakes vibe left me cold.






JOE HENRY- BLOOD FROM STARS

Hot on the heels of producing two fantastic records for Allen Toussaint & Ramblin' Jack Elliott respectively, singer-songwriter and class act, Joe Henry drops his best solo record to date.





DELBERT MCLINTON- ACQUIRED TASTE

First record of new material in 4 years, from the legendary Texas roots and R&B singer.






MUTEMATH- ARMISTICE

"Anointed by Alternative Press as ''the #1 band you need to see live before you die,'' eclectic and inspired electro-alt MUTEMATH scored in late 2008 with ''Spotlight'' (#1 Billboard Hot Singles Sales for two weeks) on the soundtrack album to Twilight. The track now also appears on the group's second album, Armistice. Produced by Dennis Herring (Modest Mouse, Elvis Costello, The Hives). " I couldn't have said it better myself..or at all actually. The band sounds like Coldplay after a week off the medication.




JAY REATARD- WATCH ME FALL

"Highly anticipated new album from this indie artist. 'Snarky, snarling, and soaring, this kind of derangement rarely sounds so sweet." Kinda like The Undertones meets The Buzzcocks. Good stuff!





RICHARD THOMPSON- WALKING ON A WIRE (1968-2009) 4 CD BOX

Shout Factory releases the "definitive" Richard Thompson collection. You decide.

TRACK LIST:
Walking On A Wire: Richard Thompson (1968-2009)
Distributed by Sony BMG
Release Date: June 30
Selection No.: 826663-11087
Suggested List Price: $59.98

Disc One:
1. Time Will Show The Wiser - Fairport Convention Fairport Convention
2. Meet On The Ledge - Fairport Convention What We Did On Our Holidays (U.K.), Fairport Convention (U.S.)
3. Genesis Hall - Fairport Convention Unhalfbricking
4. Crazy Man Michael - Fairport Convention Liege & Lief
5. Sloth - Fairport Convention Full House
6. Roll Over Vaughn Williams Starring As Henry The Human Fly
7. The Poor Ditching Boy Starring As Henry The Human Fly
8. The Angels Took My Racehorse Away Starring As Henry The Human Fly
9. The Great Valerio - Richard & Linda Thompson I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
10. When I Get To The Border - Richard & Linda Thompson I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
11. Withered And Died - Richard & Linda Thompson I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
12. I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight - Richard & Linda Thompson I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
13. Down Where The Drunkards Roll - Richard & Linda Thompson I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
14. The Calvary Cross - Richard & Linda Thompson I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
15. I'll Regret It All In The Morning - Richard & Linda Thompson Hokey Pokey
16. Old Man Inside A Young Man - Richard & Linda Thompson Hokey Pokey
17. For Shame Of Doing Wrong - Richard & Linda Thompson Pour Down Like Silver
18. Night Comes In - Richard & Linda Thompson Pour Down Like Silver

Disc Two:
1. Dimming Of The Day/Dargai - Richard & Linda Thompson Pour Down Like Silver
2. A Heart Needs A Home - Richard & Linda Thompson (guitar, vocal) (U.K.), Live! (More Or Less) (U.S.)
3. Don't Let A Thief Steal Into Your Heart - Richard & Linda Thompson First Light
4. Strange Affair -Richard & Linda Thompson First Light
5. Sunnyvista - Richard & Linda Thompson Sunnyvista
6. Sisters - Richard & Linda Thompson Sunnyvista
7. Rockin' In Rhythm Strict Tempo!
8. Did She Jump Or Was She Pushed - Richard & Linda Thompson Shoot Out The Lights
9. Man In Need - Richard & Linda Thompson Shoot Out The Lights
10. Shoot Out The Lights - Richard & Linda Thompson Shoot Out The Lights
11. Wall Of Death - Richard & Linda Thompson Shoot Out The Lights
12. Walking On A Wire - Richard & Linda Thompson Shoot Out The Lights
13. Tear Stained Letter Hand Of Kindness
14. How I Wanted To Hand Of Kindness
15. Hand Of Kindness Hand Of Kindness
16. Beat The Retreat (Live) Small Town Romance (Live/Solo In New York, 1982)
17. I Ain't Going To Drag My Feet No More Across A Crowded Room

Disc Three:
1. Little Blue Number Across A Crowded Room
2. She Twists The Knife Again Across A Crowded Room
3. Valerie Daring Adventures
4. Turning Of The Tide Amnesia
5. I Still Dream Amnesia
6. Waltzing's For Dreamers Amnesia
7. Read About Love Rumor And Sigh
8. I Feel So Good Rumor And Sigh
9. I Misunderstood Rumor And Sigh
10. 1952 Vincent Black Lightning Rumor And Sigh
11. Put Your Trust In Me Sweet Talker (Original Soundtrack)
12. From Galway To Graceland (Live) Watching The Dark
13. I Can't Wake Up To Save My Life Mirror Blue
14. MGB-GT Mirror Blue
15. Mingus Eyes Mirror Blue
16. Beeswing Mirror Blue
17. Taking My Business Elsewhere Mirror Blue
18. King Of Bohemia Mirror Blue
19. Don't Roll Those Bloodshot Eyes At Me (Live) - Richard Thompson with Danny Thompson Live At Crawley 1993 - Richard Thompson with Danny Thompson
20. Razor Dance (Voltage Enhanced) you? me? us?

Disc Four:
1. Hide It Away (Voltage Enhanced) you? me? us?
2. Last Shift - Richard Thompson & Danny Thompson Industry Richard Thompson & Danny Thompson
3. Big Chimney - Richard Thompson & Danny Thompson Industry - Richard Thompson & Danny Thompson
4. Lotteryland - Richard Thompson & Danny Thompson Industry - Richard Thompson & Danny Thompson
5. Persuasion (Live) - Richard Thompson Celtschmerz (Live UK '98)
6. Cooksferry Queen Mock Tudor
7. Bathsheba Smiles Mock Tudor
8. Hard On Me (Live) Semi-Detached Mock Tudor
9. Gethsemane The Old Kit Bag
10. A Love You Can't Survive The Old Kit Bag
11. A Legal Matter (Live) 1000 Years Of Popular Music
12. Main Title From Grizzly Man Grizzly Man (Original Soundtrack)
13. Al Bowlly's In Heaven (Live) Live From Austin TX
14. I'll Never Give It Up Sweet Warrior
15. Dad's Gonna Kill Me Sweet Warrior
16. She Sang Angels To Rest Sweet Warrior





LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III- HIGH WIDE & HANDSOME

"Loudon Wainwright III, together with producer Dick Connette, has created one of the most ambitious projects of his career with the 2 CD set High Wide & Handsome - a grand gathering of songs, both old and original, revisiting the life, times and recorded legacy of legendary singer and banjo picker Charlie Poole (1892-1931). "

THE RUNNERS-UP: The Best Records Of 2008

2008 has been a remarkable year for music. Sales may have reached an all-time low, but the quality of music released in 2008 almost makes me forget Lou Reed's "The Raven." And that was 5 years ago. I love lists. I've been making lists since I was a young, Catholic school boy. Back then, the lists weren't always music related. "Favorite Actors." "Favorite Comic Books." Occasionally there'd be "Top 5 Ways Sister Martha Will Beat On Joey"

5. Ruler
4. Phonics Book
3. Mary's Hair Brush
2.
1.

You get the point.

This year, I had 29 records waiting to be included on my year-end Top 10. This is a good thing. It means, one more list.

Here are THE RUNNERS-UP:

11-20, with my top 10 to follow.

11. THE RACONTEURS- CONSOLERS OF THE LONELY

I never boarded The White Stripes bus. I don't need to go into that now. This is not about why I don't care for their records. It's about why I love The Raconteurs. Jack White is one of the most exciting guitar players in the game, and with Brendan Benson's knack for melody, and Cincinnati's killer rhythm section, The Greenhornes behind the wheel, The Raconteurs create some seriously infectious rock and roll.


12. JOHN BOUTTE- GOOD NEIGHBOR
We all have an artist who we hold dear to our hearts. An artist, whose time you know is about to come. New Orleans' own John Boutte is that man. A great interpreter of everything from the great American songbook, to traditional New Orleans' gospel, to rock and roll classics, Boutte and his mellifluous voice cover it all on his new release. You can't help but think of Sam Cooke while hearing John sing, and that's not a bad thing. Listen to this record. And check out John Boutte and The New Orleans Social Club performing on Austin City Limits.




13. THE PARLOR MOB- AND YOU WERE A CROW

I'm sure the boys in the band wouldn't appreciate comparisons to so many classic hard rock bands of the 70s. They surely want to be known for their own thing. But this record is without question, the best hard rock record of the year. Zep-inspired riffs, a dual guitar attack that would make Thin Lizzy fans proud, and melody to boot. Check out the Mob live from Maxwell's below.




14. JULES SHEAR- MORE

I love this record. Jules always seems to move me. Lyrically, it tore me up. The last track, "You Might Show Up" put me over the edge. (listen HERE) Could be my fave track on the album. I hear elements of everything I have ever loved about Jules, all over this record. It even rocks... more than a bit.



15. ANAT COHEN- NOTES FROM THE UNDERGROUND

Few jazz releases this year hit me as hard as Anat Cohen's record. There is an intensity in her soloing that speaks more than words. From the soulful version of the Cuban standard "Siboney," to the playful sounds of "Washington Square Park," a Cohen original, the music on this record will seep into you and remain there for a long time. It never meanders and never strays too far from the melody. Superb playing all around.




16. AMANDA PALMER- WHO KILLED AMANDA PALMER

I can't recall ever hearing a note of Miss Palmer's work with The Dresden Dolls. It all just slipped by me. But a friend recommended this CD, simply because he thought I would like it. He was right. Think Sally Bowles fronting the Spiders From Mars, with John Cale and the Mael Brothers standing by for moral support. (Seriously, think it!)



17. LENNY KRAVITZ- IT IS TIME FOR A LOVE REVOLUTION

I will reiterate what I said in Mark Levine's post of his faves of the year, Lenny Kravitz just don't get no respect. And he should. He is keeping alive the music that has kept us alive. And he does it better than most. Soulful, hard rocking, funky and trippy, this is a great record from head to tail.



18.- RAPHAEL SAADIQ- THE WAY I SEE IT

And speaking of keeping the spirit of the great ones alive, Raphael Saadiq's "The Way It Is" is not just a 60's soul pastiche. These are real songs with mind-boggling production that will...uh...boggle the mind. I put this CD on, looked at the cover, and still thought I was listening to a Smokey Robinson record from 1966.



19. THE FIREMAN- ELECTRIC ARGUMENTS

I thought it was a fluke. First listen to Sir Paul McCartney's third attempt as The Fireman killed me. My immediate thoughts went back to one of my fave McCartney albums, "Ram." But, you know what? I've gone back to this record again and again. It is no fluke. It ends on a blah note, just gets a bit too ambient. But for 40 minutes, Macca's voice will remind you that he WAS a Beatle and not the guy behind so many of those dreck records of recent years,



20. BHI BHIMAN- THE COOKBOOK

No, this is not the token "New York Times school of 'Let's pick the most obscure shit we can think of that no one has the ability to purchase just so we can say we discovered something' choice." This is another recommendation that was right on the money. Bhiman is a Bay Area, singer-songwriter, sounding not unlike Taj Mahal, yet completely original. Topical lyrics, subtle and heavy, with a swingin', soulful groove throughout. I love this record. And if you're into country blues with tight harmonies, you need to find some time and check Bhi Bhiman out.







And there you have it.

Songs Of The Week, 2017: 9/16-9/29

Secret 77- Bad Brains
Fallen Angel- King Crimson
Sadie Green- Big T Tyler
Mona Lisa- Slick Rick
Rocky Ground- Bruce Springsteen
The Endless Plain Of Fortune- John Cale
Garbage Day- Brendan Benson
Coney Island Baby- The Excellents
Frederick- Patti Smith
You Used To Drive Me Around- Jon Auer
Misfire- Neko Case
Somebody Got Murdered- The Clash
Wait Till Saturday- Dirty Tricks
Cryin' To Be Heard- Traffic

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Your Friday PSA and Weekend Mix

This Sunday 9/27, is Vinyl Revolution's first record show of the Fall. It will take place at Astoria's legendary Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden from 11AM-5PM and I will be there behind my usual table with a cool thousand LPs ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous. For all of you East Coasters, I highly recommend this event. Mike & Randy of Vinyl Revolution really know how to throw a party, and even if you tire quickly of all the vinyl and its dealers and its fetishists...and me...there is always beer, bratwurst and ball games in the other rooms. Hope to see some of you there.

That being said, here is a collection of tunes I've been listening to this week while pricing and bagging records.

TRACKLIST

Gone-The Black Crowes
(proper) Gander-Stanton Moore Trio
Hate- Fiction Plane
Big Blue Diamonds- Willy DeVille
Jokes On Me-Tito & Tarantula
What'd I Say- Brenda Lee
Slaughtered, Gutted & Heartbroken- Squeeze
Silly Love- Pugwash
Eyes On The Horizon- Brendan Benson
I Feel Love (Every Million Miles)- The Dead Weather
Look Through My Window- The Mamas & The Papas
If You Change Your Mind- Raspberries
Till I Hear It From You- Marshall Crenshaw
A Kiss Before I Go-Ryan Adams
Silly Thing- Sex Pistols

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Is it Me?

There are two lists here. First,

The NME Top 50 albums of the decade
1. The Strokes – 'Is This It'
2. The Libertines – 'Up The Bracket'
3. Primal Scream – 'XTRMNTR'
4. Arctic Monkeys – 'Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not'
5. Yeah Yeah Yeahs – 'Fever To Tell'
6. PJ Harvey – 'Stories From the City, Stories From the Sea'
7. Arcade Fire – 'Funeral'
8. Interpol – 'Turn On The Bright Lights'
9. The Streets – 'Original Pirate Material'
10. Radiohead – 'In Rainbows'
11. At The Drive In – 'Relationship Of Command'
12. LCD Soundsystem – 'Sound Of Silver'
13. The Shins – 'Wincing The Night Away'
14. Radiohead – 'Kid A'
15. Queens Of The Stone Age – 'Songs For The Deaf'
16. The Streets – 'A Grand Don't Come For Free'
17. Sufjan Stevens – 'Illinois'
18. The White Stripes – 'Elephant'
19. The White Stripes – 'White Blood Cells'
20. Blur – 'Think Tank'
21. The Coral – 'The Coral'
22. Jay-Z – 'The Blueprint'
23. Klaxons – 'Myths Of The Near Future'
24. The Libertines – 'The Libertines'
25. The Rapture – 'Echoes'
26. Dizzee Rascal – 'Boy in Da Corner'
27. Amy Winehouse – 'Back To Black'
28. Johnny Cash – 'The Man Comes Around'
29. Super Furry Animals – 'Rings Around The World'
30. Elbow – 'Asleep In The Back'
31. Bright Eyes – 'I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning'
32. Yeah Yeah Yeahs – 'Show Your Bones'
33. Arcade Fire – 'Neon Bible'
34. Grandaddy – 'The Sophtware Slump'
35. Babyshambles – 'Down In Albion'
36. Spirtualized – 'Let it Come Down'
37. The Knife – 'Silent Shout'
38. Bloc Party – 'Silent Alarm'
39. Crystal Castles – 'Crystal Castles'
40. Ryan Adams – 'Gold'
41. Wild Beasts – 'Two Dancers'
42. Vampire Weekend – 'Vampire Weekend'
43. Wilco – 'Yankee Hotel Foxtrot'
44. Outkast – 'Speakerboxxx/The Love Below'
45. Avalanches – 'Since I Left You'
46. The Delgados – 'The Great Eastern'
47. Brendan Benson – 'Lapalco'
48. The Walkmen – 'Bows and Arrows'
49. Muse – 'Absolution'
50. MIA – 'Arular'

Then, there are these bad boys from the seventies.


1. What's Going On (1971) - Marvin Gaye
2. Dark Side Of The Moon (1973) - Pink Floyd
3. London Calling (1979) - The Clash
4. Born To Run (1975) - Bruce Springsteen
5. Exile On Main Street (1972) - Rolling Stones
6. Innervisions (1973) - Stevie Wonder
7. Led Zeppelin IV (1971) - Led Zeppelin
8. Who's Next (1971) - The Who
9. Songs In The Key Of Life (1976) - Stevie Wonder
10. Rumours (1977) - Fleetwood Mac
11. Blue (1971) - Joni Mitchell
12. Ziggy Stardust & The Spiders From Mars (1972) - David Bowie
13. There's A Riot Goin' On (1971) - Sly And The Family Stone
14. Tapestry (1971) - Carole King
15. Paranoid (1970 )- Black Sabbath
16. The Wall (1979) - Pink Floyd
17. Blood On The Tracks (1975) - Bob Dylan
18. Never Mind The Bollocks Here's The Sex Pistols (1977) - Sex Pistols
19. Hotel California (1976) - The Eagles
20. Off the Wall (1979) - Michael Jackson
21. Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970) - Simon & Garfunkel
22. After The Goldrush (1970) - Neil Young
23. Ramones (1976) - Ramones
24. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973) - Elton John
25. The Clash (1977) - The Clash
26. Plastic Ono Band (1970) - John Lennon
27. Talking Book (1972) - Stevie Wonder
28. This Year's Model (1978) - Elvis Costello & The Attractions
29. Sticky Fingers (1971) - Rolling Stones
30. Moondance(1970) - Van Morrison
31. A Night At The Opera (1975) - Queen
32. Van Halen (1978) - Van Halen
33. Horses (1975) - Patti Smith
34. Machine Head (1972) - Deep Purple
35. Harvest (1972) - Neil Young
36. My Aim Is True (1977) - Elvis Costello
37. Live at Leeds (1970) - The Who
38. Marquee Moon (1977) - Television
39. Black Sabbath (1970) - Black Sabbath
40. Unknown Pleasures (1979) - Joy Division
41. Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack (1977) - The Bee Gees
42. DéjàVu (1970) - Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
43. Superfly (1972) - Curtis Mayfield
44. Low (1978) - David Bowie
45. Wish You Were Here (1975) - Pink Floyd
46. All Things Must Pass (1970) - George Harrison
47. Quadrophenia (1973) - The Who
48. Live at the Fillmore East (1971) - The Allman Brothers Band
49. Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs (1970) - Derek & The Dominos
50. Imagine (1971) - John Lennon
51. Physical Graffiti (1975) - Led Zeppelin
52. Abraxas (1970) - Santana
53. Cosmo's Factory (1970) - Creedence Clearwater Revival
54. Pearl (1971) - Janis Joplin
55. American Beauty (1970) - Grateful Dead
56. Fun House (1970) - Iggy Pop & the Stooges
57. Tumbleweed Connection (1970) - Elton John
58. Hunky Dory (1972) - David Bowie
59. Exodus (1977) - Bob Marley & the Wailers
60. Court and Spark (1974) - Joni Mitchell
61. In Rock (1970) - Deep Purple
62. The Stranger (1977) - Billy Joel
63. Fragile (1971) - Yes
64. Toys In The Attic (1975) - Aerosmith
65. Pronounced Leh'-nerd Skin-'nerd (1973) - Lynyrd Skynyrd
66. Aqualung (1971) - Jethro Tull
67. One Nation Under The Groove (1978) - Funkadelic
68. Let's Get It On (1973) - Marvin Gaye
69. Aja (1977) - Steely Dan
70. Boston (1976) - Boston
71. Call Me (1973) - Al Green
72. Mothership Connection (1976) - Parliament
73. Let It Be (1970) - The Beatles
74. Catch A Fire (1973) - Bob Marley & The Wailers
75. Fullingness First Finale (1974) - Stevie Wonder
76. Heart Like A Wheel (1974) - Linda Ronstadt
77. Rocks (1976) - Aerosmith
78. Every Picture Tells A Story (1971) - Rod Stewart
79. Sweet Baby James (1970) - James Taylor
80. Bat Out Of Hell (1977) - Meat Loaf
81. Frampton Comes Alive (1976) - Peter Frampton
82. Parallel Lines (1979) - Blondie
83. Highway To Hell (1979) - AC/DC
84. Something/Anything (1972) - Todd Rundgren
85. Rocket To Russia (1977) - Ramones
86. Tea For The Tillerman (1971) - Cat Stevens
87. Trans-Europe Express (1977) - Kraftwerk
88. Eat A Peach (1972) - Allman Brothers Band
89. Band On The Run (1973) - Paul McCartney & Wings
90. Dreamboat Annie (1976) - Heart
91. The Cars (1978) - The Cars
92. Electric Warrior (1971) - T-Rex
93. Darkness On The Edge Of Town (1978) - Bruce Springsteen
94. Alive! (1975) - KISS
95. New York Dolls (1973) - New York Dolls
96. Running On Empty (1978) - Jackson Browne
97. Fleetwood Mac (1975) - Fleetwood Mac
98. Damn The Torpedoes (1979) - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
99. Rust Never Sleeps (1979) - Neil Young & Crazy Horse
100. Close To You (1970) - The Carpenters

I thought about writing some more, but I don't think I need to.