Showing posts with label Guitar Legends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Guitar Legends. Show all posts

6/21/2023

Concert Review: Martin Barre At The Worthington Country Club

                     Martin Barre Concert-A Brief History of Jethro Tull

The Worthington Country Club, Massachusetts

June 18, 2023

https://martinbarre.com/martin-barre-tour/

Nestled in the country along Route 143 off Worthington Road in Massachusetts is the beautiful Golf Links, owned by David and Helen Pollard. It was my distinct pleasure to attend the concert being held there with Martin Barre. For a few reasons: I knew the Pollards very well and had worked for them for five years in the early 2000s. And I had not seen them in 14 years! Secondly, I am very familiar with Martin’s guitar playing with Jethro Tull, covering several of the reissues of their group’s studio recordings over the years, seeing them play live with the band, and providing coverage before he departed on his solo career. With that in mind and being able to see some old friends, I had been anticipating this event for months.

 

We had a beautiful clear blue sky with the sun shining to usher in this rock legend; however, as the night rolled on, it got a bit nippy, and Martin was warming his fingers to keep them agile.

Martin Barre is one of the finest guitar players in the world and has been for many decades. Now in his 70s, he has not lost a step in showcasing his six-string virtuosity. I was to realize this fully last night as he made his way through two lengthy sets. His band consists of Dan Crisp (lead vocals/keyboards), Alan Thomson (bass), and Darby Todd on Drums. The lead singer bares a remarkable resemblance to a younger Phil Collins. That is what I recognized in short order. And besides that, after belting out the first number with authority, he did a complete turnaround. He sang like a young Ian Anderson, including all the facial expressions and mannerisms of the Jethro Tull mastermind and leader, writer, singer, and musician.

 

Another surprise may have been Martin being an accomplished flute player. I had known this, but many in attendance were surprised. The crowd expressed their delight as Martin handled his second instrument quite well. Quite honestly, and even though I still enjoy Jethro Tull to this day, Ian has lost his voice due to age and wear and tear, and nobody ever could replace Martin on guitar. It has not been the same since he left the band.

 

This night I relived the good old days with Martin wailing away and rocking the crowd and Dan Crisp doing a splendid job with each song from the Tull catalog. There are so many outstanding Tull albums and much ground to cover. Martin and his band are tight and did a marvelous job recreating all the music. Even Ian Anderson would be impressed.

 

The first Tull album I got was Warchild back in the day when there were record and CD clubs that no longer exists. It still stands as my favorite album. Now there are many different choices if you are a vinyl enthusiast to choose from. Hearing them play “Warchild,” “Back Door Angels,” and “Sea Lion” was a treat for the ears and senses. And of course, there are many of the favorites that the audience recognized immediately, such as “Bouree,” “My God,” “Thick As A Brick,” and many more, including the all-out rocking encore numbers “Locomotive Breath” and “Teacher.” Martin and the band ended the show on fire, cranking out those two prog rock classics. Fitting, it ended with plenty of fireworks from Martin’s guitar.

 

It was another night for me to remember, and an honor to be able to see the show and report on it. Thank you, David and Helen, for the night that will forever be in my consciousness and for giving this old rocker a smile from the inside out.

 

If you like the beauty of nature and outdoor music, visiting the Worthington Golf Club this summer is a must. Look at what is on tap for the rest of the season and get your tickets here: https://worthingtongolfclub.com/music-concerts-and-events.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June 19, 2023

First Set:

Look Into The Sun

Someday The Sun

Cat’s Squirrel

We Used To Know

Serenade To A Cuckoo

Bouree

Sossity

Bass Solo

Back To The Family

Nothing To Say

My God

(chat) Thick As A Brick

Passion Play

Whistler

Black Satin Dancer

Back Door Angels

(chat) Warchild

Sea Lion

 

Set Two:

Acres Wild

Jack Frost

(chat) Under Wraps Acoustic

Under Wraps Electric

Protect And Survive

Watching Me

Fallen On Hard Times

Too Old To Rock & Roll

Slow Marching Band

(chat)
Locomotive Breath

Teacher

2/10/2018

Rock/Blues Review: Jimi Hendrix-Both Sides of the Sky

Release Date: March 9, 2018
Label: Sony Legacy

Although the man has been gone since 1970, the legend of Jimi Hendrix is alive and well and continues to grow exponentially. There was a period of 4 years that this amazing guitar player created some of the most remarkable music. From what I understand, if he wasn’t playing to audiences, he was in the studio with the tapes always rolling. So as one can imagine, he left behind an overabundance of material on the shelf. He made more music in a 4-year period than anyone I am aware of.

This falls right in line with the Hendrix family taking control of his legacy and contributions. When that happened, all of his music was handled properly. Since then, every year we see at least one or two unearthed and remastered albums coming out. It has been a true renaissance for arguably the greatest six-string bender ever. And because of this flow of music over the years, it feels like he never left us. For my musical tastes, that is a beautiful thing. If you like the music of Hendrix I am pretty sure you would agree. I think it goes beyond like at this point for a lot of us.

Both Sides of the Sky is part of trilogy that included Valleys of Neptune (2010) and People, Hell and Angels (2013). So, what is really cool about this release? It is the cast of legendary artists that played with Jimi on these tracks. I had always heard of the different sessions he had at Electric Ladyland Studios (the renowned music church), however I have not heard anything with so many different artists on one recording.  Ten of the tracks are previously unreleased (see all the notations provided on the track list). The sound and engineering on this set is phenomenally crisp and clear. I would expect that goes without saying after all the previous reissued music that set the bar so high.

“$20 Fine” has one of the most recognizable vocalist in rock history, Stephen Stills. “Things I Used to Do” features the master of the white boy blues Johnny Winter. Now that is quite a paring of guitar players. The classic track “Woodstock,” which was originally recorded with Stills on lead vocals (CSN), is in a totally different incarnation with Hendrix laying down the guitar lines. With all the other layers of instruments that were added, it made for a maximum overhaul of the track. I found comfort out right out of the gate knowing Stills is there on vocals, just to remind us who sang it first. With Hendrix’s blues-based rock hammering away, it was a perfect opportunity for the vocalist to step in and complete the changing shades and colors of the track. It worked for me but may not for some purists. It is more meat and potatoes (musically) if you will, and a totally different but interesting take on the song.

“Power of Soul” has always been one of my favorites ever since I heard it back in the 70’s on vinyl courtesy of the Crash Landing album. This extended version is terrific. 

There are some real blues barn burners on this set. The playing is pinpoint, biting and memorable. Hendrix had it down, he owned it. Once you hear “Things I Used to Do” and “Georgia Blues” you will find out exactly what I mean. Lonnie Youngblood does a great job belting out those ‘Georgia Blues,” answering Jimi’s sting like a bee leads. The sax that comes in towards the curtain closing on the number is a nice touch as well. That horn just cries and screeches “do you hear me now?” And trust me, there is no filler anywhere on these tracks. If you enjoy a total blues workout then you will love those two rippers.

Any time I cover anything by Hendrix I feel like I could write a book instead of an overview, but I have to reel it in and let the music fans decide if they have the same feelings and or thoughts about this release. Both Sides of the Sky is a fine addition to the archives and one release any rock or blues fan should get ASAP!

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
February 10, 2018
Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan Reviews

Tracks:
 

*Previously unreleased
^ Previously unavailable extended version
+Featuring Stephen Stills
#Featuring Johnny Winter
++Featuring Lonnie Youngblood

01.Mannish Boy *
02. Lover Man *
03. Hear My Train A Comin’ *
04. Stepping Stone *
05. $20 Fine *+
06. Power Of Soul ^
07. Jungle *
08. Things I Used to Do #
09. Georgia Blues ++
10. Sweet Angel *
11. Woodstock *+
12. Send My Love To Linda *
13. Cherokee Mist *

 

Rock/Blues Review: Jimi Hendrix-Both Sides of the Sky

Release Date: March 9, 2018
Label: Sony Legacy

Although the man has been gone since 1970 , the legend of Jimi Hendrix is alive and well and continues to grow exponentially. There was a period of 4 years that this amazing guitar player created some of the most remarkable music. From what I understand, if he wasn’t playing to audiences, he was in the studio with the tapes always rolling. So as one can imagine, he left behind an overabundance of material on the shelf. He made more music in a 4-year period than anyone I am aware of.

This falls right in line with the Hendrix family taking control of his legacy and contributions. When that happened, all of his music was handled properly. Since then, every year we see at least one or two unearthed and remastered albums coming out. It has been a true renaissance for arguably the greatest six-string bender ever. And because of this flow of music over the years, it feels like he never left us. For my musical tastes, that is a beautiful thing. If you like the music of Hendrix I am pretty sure you would agree. I think it goes beyond like at this point for a lot of us.

Both Sides of the Sky is part of trilogy that included Valleys of Neptune (2010) and People, Hell and Angels (2013). So, what is really cool about this release? It is the cast of legendary artists that played with Jimi on these tracks. I had always heard of the different sessions he had at Electric Ladyland Studios (the renowned music church), however I have not heard anything with so many different artists on one recording.  Ten of the tracks are previously unreleased (see all the notations provided on the track list). The sound and engineering on this set is phenomenally crisp and clear. I would expect that goes without saying after all the previous reissued music that set the bar so high.

“$20 Fine” has one of the most recognizable vocalist in rock history, Stephen Stills. “Things I Used to Do” features the master of the white boy blues Johnny Winter. Now that is quite a paring of guitar players. The classic track “Woodstock,” which was originally recorded with Stills on lead vocals (CSN), is in a totally different incarnation with Hendrix laying down the guitar lines. With all the other layers of instruments that were added, it made for a maximum overhaul of the track. I found comfort out right out of the gate knowing Stills is there on vocals, just to remind us who sang it first. With Hendrix’s blues-based rock hammering away, it was a perfect opportunity for the vocalist to step in and complete the changing shades and colors of the track. It worked for me but may not for some purists. It is more meat and potatoes (musically) if you will, and a totally different but interesting take on the song.

“Power of Soul” has always been one of my favorites ever since I heard it back in the 70’s on vinyl courtesy of the Crash Landing album. This extended version is terrific. 

There are some real blues barn burners on this set. The playing is pinpoint, biting and memorable. Hendrix had it down, he owned it. Once you hear “Things I Used to Do” and “Georgia Blues” you will find out exactly what I mean. Lonnie Youngblood does a great job belting out those ‘Georgia Blues,” answering Jimi’s sting like a bee leads. The sax that comes in towards the curtain closing on the number is a nice touch as well. That horn just cries and screeches “do you hear me now?” And trust me, there is no filler anywhere on these tracks. If you enjoy a total blues workout then you will love those two rippers.

Any time I cover anything by Hendrix I feel like I could write a book instead of an overview, but I have to reel it in and let the music fans decide if they have the same feelings and or thoughts about this release. Both Sides of the Sky is a fine addition to the archives and one release any rock or blues fan should get ASAP!

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
February 10, 2018
Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan Reviews

Tracks:
 

*Previously unreleased
^ Previously unavailable extended version
+Featuring Stephen Stills
#Featuring Johnny Winter
++Featuring Lonnie Youngblood

01.Mannish Boy *
02. Lover Man *
03. Hear My Train A Comin’ *
04. Stepping Stone *
05. $20 Fine *+
06. Power Of Soul ^
07. Jungle *
08. Things I Used to Do #
09. Georgia Blues ++
10. Sweet Angel *
11. Woodstock *+
12. Send My Love To Linda *
13. Cherokee Mist *

 

8/12/2017

Concert Review: Kenny Wayne Shepherd At The Egg In Albany, NY

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band At The Egg
Opening Act: Sly Fox And The Hustlers
Albany, New York



Legendary guitar slinger Kenny Wayne Shepard and his band invaded the cozy confines of The Egg in Albany NY last night.  I had been to the venue one time before and enjoyed the intimacy and atmosphere not mention the unique architecture, outside and inside.

The seating there is terrific, there is not really a bad seat in the house. Although I was positioned in the center I was in the very last row. Even though that may seem too far back I was fine with my seats and could see everything going on without any issue. The sound folks were right behind us and graciously gave me the set list before leaving.

Sly Fox and The Hustlers warmed up the receptive crowd before Kenny arrived. They are local to Albany and have their own album out. We heard some originals and they also did some covers, like most blues bands. I thought they were exceptional. The crowd did as well and gave them a good send off before the lights came back on for a short break.

Kenny Wayne Shepherd is one of those young phenom’s I remember when he first started. Right out the gate his name was stamped into the souls of all blues rock oriented followers. He has done nothing but gain notoriety in the passing years and ultimately the respect of his peers. The admiration from the community you are in is one of stepping stones to being recognized and a path to stardom. It didn’t take Kenny long to get there.

If you are in the mood for a show that has a band onstage that knows how to play traditional blues properly with rock mixed in then you need to get your tickets to see KWS. I mean this band smokes!

I had never been to one of Kenny’s concerts but knew it would be a must for anyone that loves the blues. By the time the evening was through I felt like I just saw the Hendrix incarnate!  He has one of the tightest bands and one that includes another legend in his own right, Chris Layton on drums. He held down the rhythm section for Stevie’s Ray Vaughan’s band and from that point his name was written in stone.

Kenny and his band also have a new album out titled Lay It On Dow. They gave the audience a good taste of that featuring several songs. It certainly made an impression as they were lining up to buy the CD after the show (including me). It is a very rootsy blues rock oriented set of songs and that country influence is heard in some tracks as well. Of course, that is where the roots sound comes in. It’s that blend of blues and country that forms into a superb musical gumbo. Kenny and his band wear it well.




Noah Hunt handles a lot of lead singing and he switches off with Kenny depending on what song they are doing. They both have good voices however Noah’s vocal timbre is deep and just right for this kind of music. Many times, during the evening he reminded me of Paul Rogers however when I listened to the CD on the way home I did hear that, which I found interesting. Therein lies the difference between a live and studio performance. And speaking of that difference, this band is so good that they nail their studio tracks spot on. And to the delight of the audience, plenty of improvisation and wailing away is provided by Mr. Shepherd. 

Favorites of the night were “Heat of the Sun,” “Blue on Black” and an amazing rendition of  “Voodoo Child.”

This was a night to remember for me and I am sure for everyone in attendance there. KWS has earned his seat amongst the great guitar heroes of our generation and I would expect to see him continue to gain fans. The man is only 40 so he has at least another 40 years or more left before hanging it up, if he ever does. Most blues players play until the cannot anymore or simply pass away. I know one thing for certain, this six-string bandit will be entertaining audiences long after I leave this planet. 

The music of KWS reaches out to everyone and any barriers that were in place outside the venue in daily life melt away instantly. It makes me wonder…if we piped in music on every city street across the world if it would change the attitudes of people and make it a better place? It’s worth a try.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
August 11, 2017
Founder of:
Review Provided By Write A Music Review

Set List:
Never Lookin Back
Kings Highway
True Lies
House Is Rockin’
Hard Lesson
Baby Got Gone
Down for Love
Heat of the Sun
Talk To Me Baby
Deja Voodoo
Born With A Broken Heart
Diamonds and Gold
Nothing But The Night
BB Medley
Shotgun Blues
Encore:
Blue on Black
King Bee
Voodoo Child

12/17/2014

Blues Rock Review: Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble-The Complete Epic Recordings Collection

Release Date: October 27, 2014
Label: Legacy

How much does the world miss Stevie Ray Vaughan? I would venture to say a whole lot considering the state of affairs the music industry is in. Stevie was a shooting star burning ever so brightly before his light was so abruptly extinguished by an ill-fated helicopter crash. Unlike some of the guitar legends that came before him he stopped living life by the drop and was in recovery before he died. This is what made it so much harder to take when the news arrived of his fatal accident. SRV certainly made an indelible impression on us all when he was recording music. Those of us that remember his meteoric rise harkens back to another time when a great guitar player named Hendrix did the same thing. Further proof of SRV and Double Trouble’s relevance is the upcoming induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

The Complete Epic Recordings Collection is 12 CDs housed in a clam shell box with each CD in its own single sleeve and a booklet is included. 

I think it’s safe to say that Stevie and his band Double Trouble were most comfortable performing live where they could cut loose and improvise, much to the delight of their audiences. Half of the CDs in this set are live recordings so that should put those thoughts into a proper perspective going forward.

The key studio recordings released prior to his passing are present of course, Texas Flood, Couldn't Stand The Weather, Soul To Soul and In Step.Those four studio releases stand as classic renderings of blues rock to this day, in fact now more than ever. Artists like Stevie come along once in a while and he wasted no time in making sure we knew he had arrived. It is unfortunate the iconic artists such as this continue to gain momentum even though they are not here to enjoy it. The best part about music is that it lasts forever and we can listen any time we like, which on the flip side is very fortunate for those of us that remain.

Besides the obvious, the fantastic and clearly relevant studio releases, it is all the live recordings that make such a stunning impact on the set. Stevie Ray Vaughan (guitar), Chris Layton (drums), Tommy Shannon (bass) and Reese Wynans (keyboards) had their mojo workin’ in a live setting; there is no question about that on any of the recordings. The first revelation comes at you like a runaway truck on the first disc in the set In The Beginning (KLBJ-FM radio broadcast). This is when people where just starting to discover SRV and his band. It was recorded at the band’s home base in Austin Texas on April 1, 1980. 

What I found amazing about this introduction was that once you listened you just knew that Stevie was destined for immortality. I was watching a video clip of him at a sound check, wiping the sleep out of his eyes and yawning yet strapping on that guitar like it was his first cup of coffee in the morning. Some people are just destined to play the guitar and they find their way to greatness in short order, well most of the legends the general public is aware of did anyway.

I appreciated this box set for many reasons and first because I have always been a SRV fan. Blues can be a predictable and sometimes repetitive genre, reworking a lot of the same licks over and over again but Stevie was innovative and fresh at all times. I do love the blues and always have but there are times it does not hold my attention long enough, with Stevie it was always different. An added bonus is the two discs titled Archives. That is one of the special extras you get with a box set.

After revisiting his studio releases and hearing all of the fantastic live material it reconfirmed my belief that he was one of the blues greats and will always be in the upper echelon of guitar players when discussing the best that ever strapped on a six string. This one came just in time to be a stocking stuffer for your favorite blues fan so doesn’t miss out!

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Write A Music Review Founder

December 17, 2014

Review Provided By Write A Music 

Tracks:

Disc 1: In The Beginning (KLBJ-FM radio broadcast produced by Wayne Bell

Recorded April 1, 1980; Austin, Texas
In The Open
Slide Thing
They Call Me Guitar Hurricane
All Your Love I Miss Loving
Tin Pan Alley (aka Roughest Place In Town)
Love Struck Baby
Tell Me
Shake For Me
Live Another Day

Originally released as Epic 53168, 1992 / Peak chart position: #58

Disc 2: Live At Montreux 1982 (July 17, 1982; Montreux International Jazz Festival)

Hide Away
Rude Mood
Pride And Joy
Texas Flood
Love Struck Baby
Dirty Pool
Give Me Back My Wig
Collins Shuffle

Originally released as Epic/Legacy 86151, 2001 / Peak chart position: #178

Disc 3: Live At Montreux 1985 (July 15, 1985; Montreux International Jazz Festival)

Scuttle Buttin'
Say What!
Ain't Gone 'N' Give Up On Love
Pride And Joy
Mary Had A Little Lamb
Tin Pan Alley (aka Roughest Place In Town)
Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)
Texas Flood
Life Without You
Gone Home
Couldn't Stand The Weather

Originally released as Epic/Legacy 86151, 2001 / Peak chart position: #178

Disc 4: Texas Flood

Love Struck Baby
Pride And Joy
Texas Flood
Tell Me
Testify
Rude Mood
Mary Had A Little Lamb
Dirty Pool
I'm Cryin'
Lenny

Produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Richard Mullen and Double Trouble / Executive Producer: John Hammond / Originally released as Epic 38734, 1983 / Peak chart position: #38

Disc 5: A Legend In The Making—Live At The El Mocambo (recorded Toronto, Canada, July 20, 1983, originally released for radio broadcast only)

Testify
So Excited
Voodoo Child (Slight Return)
Pride And Joy
Tell Me
Mary Had A Little Lamb
Texas Flood
Love Struck Baby
You'll Be Mine
Hug You, Squeeze You
Little Wing/Third Stone From The Sun
Lenny
Wham!
Rude Mood

Disc 6: Couldn't Stand The Weather (1984)


Scuttle Buttin'
Couldn't Stand The Weather
The Things (That) I Used To Do
Voodoo Child (Slight Return)
Cold Shot
Tin Pan Alley (aka Roughest Place In Town)
Honey Bee
Stang's Swang

Produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Chris Layton, Tommy Shannon, Richard Mullen, and Jim Capfer / Executive Producer: John Hammond / Originally released as Epic 39304, 1984 / Peak chart position: #31

Disc 7: Live At Carnegie Hall (Recorded October 4, 1984; New York City)


Intro--Ken Dashow/John Hammond
Scuttle Buttin'
Testify
Love Struck Baby
Honey Bee
Cold Shot
Letter To My Girlfriend
Dirty Pool
Pride And Joy
The Things That I Used To Do
C.O.D.
Iced Over
Lenny
Rude Mood

Produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan / Originally released as Epic 68163, 1997 / Peak chart position: #40

Disc 8: Soul To Soul (1985)


Say What!
Lookin' Out The Window
Look At Little Sister
Ain't Gone 'N' Give Up On Love
Gone Home
Change It
You'll Be Mine
Empty Arms
Come On (Part III)
Life Without You

Produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Double Trouble and Richard Mullen / Executive Producer: John Hammond / Originally released as Epic 40036, 1985 / Peak chart position: #34

Disc 9: Live Alive (Recorded July 16, 1985, Montreux International Jazz Festival; July 17-18, 1986, Austin, Texas; July 19, 1986, Dallas, Texas)

Say What!
Ain't Gone 'N' Give Up On Love
Pride And Joy
Mary Had A Little Lamb
Superstition
I'm Leaving You (Commit A Crime)
Cold Shot
Willie The Wimp
Look At Little Sister
Texas Flood
Voodoo Child (Slight Return)
Love Struck Baby
Change It
Life Without You

Produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble / Originally released as Epic 40511, 1986 / Peak chart position: #52

Disc 10: In Step (1989)


The House Is Rockin'
Crossfire
Tightrope
Let Me Love You Baby
Leave My Girl Alone
Travis Walk
Wall Of Denial
Scratch-N-Sniff
Love Me Darlin'
Riviera Paradise

Produced by Jim Gaines & Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble / Recorded in Memphis, Tennessee and Los Angeles, California /
Originally released as Epic 45024, 1989 / Peak chart position: #33

Disc 11: Archives/Disc One

Tin Pan Alley (aka Roughest Place In Town)
Empty Arms
Come On (Part III)
Look At Little Sister
The Sky Is Crying
Hide Away
Give Me Back My Wig
Boot Hill
Wham!
Close To You
Little Wing
Stang's Swang

Disc 12: Archives/Disc Two

 
May I Have A Talk With You
Boilermaker
The Sky Is Crying
Shake And Bake
So Excited
Slip Slidin' Slim
Chitlins Con Carne
Little Wing/Third Stone From The Sun
Boot Hill
Life By The Drop

Archives/Disc One, Track 1 produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Richard Mullen and Double Trouble; Executive Producer: John Hammond
Archives/Disc One, Tracks 2-12 produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Chris Layton, Tommy Shannon, Richard Mullen, and Jim Capfer; Executive Producer: John Hammond
Archives/Disc Two, Tracks 1-8 produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Double Trouble and Richard Mullen; Executive Producer: John Hammond
Archives/Disc Two, Track 9 produced by Jim Gaines & Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble
Archives/Disc Two, Track 10 produced by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jim Gaines

9/04/2014

Epic Records and Legacy Recordings Celebrate Stevie Ray Vaughan's 60th Birthday Year with New Release

Epic Records and Legacy Recordings Celebrate Stevie Ray Vaughan's 60th Birthday Year with Release of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: The Complete Epic Recordings Collection
 
Definitive 12 Disc SRV & DT Library Includes 1st Commercial Release of 1983's A Legend In The Making - Live at the El Mocambo Toronto Concert



Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: The Complete Epic Recordings Collection Available Tuesday, October 28.



* * * * *


New York, NY -- Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment, and Epic Records celebrate electric blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan with the release of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: The Complete Epic Recordings Collection (http://smarturl.it/SRV_CEAC_amzn) on Tuesday, October 28, 2014.


A definitive career-encompassing 12 disc library, The Complete Epic Recordings Collection brings together, for the first time, the entirety of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble's official studio and live album canon including the inaugural commercial release of A Legend In The Making, a highly collectible (formerly) promotional only recording of SRV & DT's incendiary performance at Toronto's El Mocambo club in 1983.


In addition, The Complete Epic Recordings Collection features two discs compiling rare and hard-to-find archival tracks.


On April 26, 2014, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble among the artists to be inducted into the newly created Austin City Limits Hall of Fame, launched in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the PBS televised concert series.  The Austin City Limits Hall of Fame induction ceremony will air on PBS in October 2014.


Stephen Ray Vaughan was born in Dallas, Texas on October 3, 1954, the same year the Fender Stratocaster went into production.  Stevie Ray picked up his first six-string at the age of 7, dropped out of high school in 1971 and moved to Austin in '72, going on to become one of the most influential and electrifying blues guitarists ever.  After honing his chops in a variety of bands throughout the '70s, Stevie Ray formed his own group, SRV & Double Trouble, in 1978.  Hellbent and intent on revitalizing the blues for contemporary audiences, Stevie Ray served as the power trio's charismatic frontman and evangelical electric guitarist, driven and underscored by drummer Chris Layton and bassist Tommy Shannon.


Stevie Ray and Double Trouble's reputation as a transcendent live experience gained considerable traction following a watershed performance at the Montreux International Jazz Festival in 1982 (included in The Complete Epic Recordings Collection).  Recommended to the label by A&R giant John Hammond, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble recorded the band's studio debut, Texas Flood, for Epic Records in 1983.  Going on to achieve RIAA double platinum status, Texas Flood opened the gates for a flow of gold, platinum and multiplatinum albums for Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, an unprecedented achievement for any blues act.


Stevie Ray Vaughan died in a helicopter crash on August 27, 1990, following an awe-inspiring performance with Double Trouble and Eric Clapton at the Alpine Valley Resort in Wisconsin.  Though his mainstream career lasted a mere seven years, Stevie Ray Vaughan's enduring contribution to the blues can be heard in the work of younger players including John Mayer, Derek Trucks and Mike McCready of Pearl Jam.


Stevie Ray Vaughan was the recipient of numerous musical awards, during his lifetime and posthumously.   In 1983, readers of Guitar Player voted him as Best New Talent and Best Electric Blues Guitar Player. In 1984, the Blues Foundation named him Entertainer of the Year and Blues Instrumentalist of the Year, and in 1987 Performance Magazine honored him with Rhythm and Blues Act of the Year. Earning six Grammy Awards and ten Austin Music Awards, he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2014. Rolling Stone ranked Vaughan as the twelfth greatest guitarist of all time.

4/10/2014

Rock Review: Joe Satriani-The Complete Studio Recordings

Release Date: April 22, 2014
Label: Legacy

192 tracks comprising 15 CDs is what the new Joe Satriani Complete Studio Recordings box set offers. That is a huge amount of recordings and the fact that the majority of it is instrumental rock is mind boggling to say the least. What is most impressive is that there is always a variety of styles presented on every album he produced. The tracks range from hard rocking cuts to funky runs with different effects and keyboards to heavy blues and jazz fused lines. Satch is a bonafide guitar legend and this box set supports that.

Songs range in length to just over 3 minutes and beyond to over 10 minutes such as the mammoth guitar jam “Searching.” It took me several days to take in all these tracks and it was an absolute joy to do so. I started listening to Satriani’s music when he first broke through in 80s and have been ever since. With so many tracks to choose from it is a challenge to pick out three tracks that defined Joe as an artist and guitar player. “Surfing With The Alien” was definitive Satch and “Always With Me, Always With You” was the melodic and memorable emotional artist. Then we fast forward to the present day with “Shine On American Dreamer,” which really typifies where he is today and how far he has come in his development. This of course merely scratches the surface of an amazing career however these are three tracks that standout for me being a longtime listener.

The 15 CDs give you a great snapshot of a guitar player that was not afraid to continue progressing and even do a few tracks that included vocals. I think the vocals distract from the artistry of this legendary guitar player but in the same instance give the listener a step away from the norm and more appreciation for what he was best at. Every facet of who Joe is comes through on this box set. He shows off his technical skills, how he was able to slow things down and play the acoustic numbers with just as much skill and taste, or fire off some scorching blues licks. His complete mastery of the six-string is on display consistently throughout all of his studio albums. Joe was spot on right out the gate with his first album and then took things to another level which each subsequent release.

I have heard these albums over the years but never straight through from start to finish like this before. It is because of the way I took it all in that I was able to really appreciate what he has accomplished. His musical brilliance, technical prowess and vision hit me with quite an impact. Every album is remastered and Joe was a part of that process. Included is a newly "Added Creations and Bonus Tracks" compilation and an opportunity for fans to buy a special edition USB version of the set exclusively from  www.satriani.com

To think that Steve Vai was a student of Joe’s puts things into proper perspective. His is a world renowned musician with an incredibly impressive resume that not only includes solo work but a residency with G3 and Chicken Foot to name a few, which also serve as long standing imprints on our collective musical consciousness.




I think the timing was right to release this box set as it encompasses the full development of one of the greatest guitar players in rock today. He is not your one dimensional artist by any means and even though his fans get what they want consistently with every album, there are always new musical roads travelled. The beauty of diversity is all the unexpected twists and turns, which ultimately are so pleasing and what keeps it all fresh. With each listen there is another discovery or revelation right around the corner.

If you love instrumental guitar rock you to need explore or rediscover (if you have been following his work) all of Joe Satriani’s music so reserve a space on your shelf for this set straight away. This box set is a monumental achievement that needs to be revered by all music fans. Don’t pass on this one because you will regret it.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Surfing With The Alien, Always With Me, Always With You, Shine On American Dreamer

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
 
April 10, 2014

Review Provided By Write A Music Review

Joe Satriani: The Complete Studio Recordings includes:
1986 Not of This Earth
1987 Surfing with the Alien
1989 Flying in a Blue Dream
1992 The Extremist
1993 Time Machine
1995 Joe Satriani
1998 Crystal Planet
2000 Engines of Creation
2002 Strange Beautiful Music
2004 Is There Love in Space?
2006 Super Colossal
2008 Professor Satchafunkilus and the Musterion of Rock
2010 Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards
2013 Unstoppable Momentum
2014 Additional Creations and Bonus Tracks

3/01/2014

Blues Review: Michael Bloomfield-From His Head To His Heart To His Hands

Release Date: February 4, 2014
Label: Legacy

Michael Bloomfield had a short stay on this planet, a paltry 38 years, which is longer than some of the other guitar legends that have graced our ears. He was a highly regarded player and some of the people that had the pleasure to work with him at his peak believed he was vastly underated and even better than Hendrix. I would never put a label like that on any guitar player past or present, what I do know is that Bloomfield was outstanding, he took it all to another level. This box set From His Head To His Heart To His Hands is a testament to that fact. The 3 CDs and DVD Sweet Blues: A Film About Mike Bloomfield, features some of his best work. A generous booklet is included as well. The entire package is an excellent documentary and encapsulation of his rise as a musician.

Bloomfield was very humble and he stated in his interviews that “I am just a person, a guitar player.” He did not want all the attention and that explains why at the height of his career he stepped away and stopped the machine that was bringing him to the top.  Once he put the brakes on his meteoric rise he went back to playing the small clubs that he felt at home in. That is what his heart called him to do. He was very frank in his interviews stating he was an acid head but never got addicted to any drug because he wanted to enjoy all the creature pleasures of life. He explained how heroin for instance, would take so much of your time and steal your life away. He tested the waters one too many times and it was an overdose that ended his life. Bloomfield became another rock ‘n’ roll fatality to add to the history books of music. The great thing about recorded music and films is the images and sounds are kept alive for eternity (or least we hope so) and this box set tells the story of a great but tragic artist.

The probability of a Jewish white kid going to Chicago and playing with all the blues legends and coming out unscathed was very low. Bloomfield beat all the odds and made an impression with his peers and earned the respect and admiration of his heroes. He wanted to sing like Ray Charles and play like B.B. King. I think he had his own sound and his guitar did all the talking. His voice was average and his playing was otherworldly. The CDs provided in this set give a good overview of his versatility, technical abilities and down to earth persona. His warmth and sense of humor come through magnificently on tracks like “I’m Glad I’m Jewish.” His blues pedigree was obvious and everyone from Dylan to B.B. King and Santana respected him for his abilities.

Michael Bloomfield assimilated the blues and everything it encompassed From His Head To His Heart To His Hands. From the beginnings with Muddy Waters on the South side of Chicago to San Francisco and playing in the Super Sessions and jamming with The Electric Flag, he became a living legend in a few short years. Now he is gone and the legend continues to grow and new ears continually find his artistry through reissues and marvelous tributes such as this box set. This will be a complete musical experience if you are familiar with Bloomfield or the newly initiated. A must have for any fan of the blues!

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Albert's Shuffle, East-West, Sweet Blues: A Film About Mike Bloomfield

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Write A Music Review Founder

March 1, 2014

Review Provided By Write A Music Review