Release Date: August 30, 2024
Label: Independent
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net
Reviews Founder
October 5, 2024
Tracks:
1. Redemption 3:17
2. I Do 3:56
3. Blind 3:35
4. O Jul Med Din Glede 3:07
5. LaVonne
Release Date: August 30, 2024
Label: Independent
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net
Reviews Founder
October 5, 2024
Tracks:
1. Redemption 3:17
2. I Do 3:56
3. Blind 3:35
4. O Jul Med Din Glede 3:07
5. LaVonne
Genre: Rock-Pop
Release Date: August 29, 2024
Website“Decisions” is the longest track, clocking in at 6:18 minutes.
It starts with a newscast discussing a shake-up in Portland. The tune is
well-thought-out, with a saxophone adding unique depth and a guitar wailing
away. The male and female vocals are understated, serving the purpose of their
message. It's a song about brotherhood and understanding, reminiscent of a '60s
protest song. The focus here is to take the advice and make a firm “Decision”
to do so.
“Music In Heaven” starts with a soft acoustic guitar. I started
thinking about how this music reminded me of something. The band America came
to mind rather quickly because of the gentle but effective vocal style and
rhythmic guitar playing in this track. As always, this was my take on what I
heard; everyone can listen to it and be engaged differently. Music triggers
things in a listener, whether an emotion is connected to a memory, a person, an
event, or anything in life. The female vocals are a nice touch, and the
partnership works well.
“350 Degrees” begins with excitement and rocking sounds and
quickly changes to a more mellow sound, with acoustic and electric guitar still
a factor but tastefully. The track is about the circle of life and how quickly
it completes that circle, with the hope that goals will be reached.
“A.I.” is present-day, which makes no sense to these folks. The
guitar is rocking out on this track (Courtesy of Barry Scott). There are many opinions about artificial
intelligence, and you hear a powerful take on this subject set to some
incredible musicianship. It's a straight-ahead rocker that might not make sense
to some due to its content. I like the line, “Man or machine, you
just never know.” And that is so true.
“This Isn't A Love Song” tells you what they are singing about
right up front. Just some random thought I decided to put to ink,” the singer
explains. He talks about a lovely woman who moves and sways and how
breathtaking it is. Some nice guitar lines populate the track with some honest
vocals that are just right to emphasize the lyrics. It’s a real toe-tapper.
It's like the smooth sailing sounds of a Jimmy Buffet number.
“Back To The Bullet” certainly is a change in direction for
track titles! It starts with a strumming acoustic and electric slide, giving it
a blues-country feel. It's about a convicted person for murder singing that
they are innocent and to be hanged and on the run to get back to his family. He
sings, asking, “What is free?” and the sound of a prison cell door closing ends
it.
“The Musician” had a record collection when he was three years
old, and he saw The Beatles on Sullivan. After that night, he and thousands of
other kids knew what they wanted to be. The only thing I remember about
watching that is getting mad at all the girls screaming because I could not
hear them playing! It is a touching song about sweet memories and how music
made the singer whole. That combination of rhythmic acoustic guitar and
tasteful electric is added to give the song a rich, layered sound. The vocals
are soft and thoughtful, as they are on many of these tracks.
“Expanding Shadows” starts with an old-fashioned organ playing
to give it that Halloween sound and perfect lyrics. The track is much different
than all the previous tracks. It's dark but light-hearted, a step away from the
other tracks' message. However, that is the point; it sounds like the band is
having fun with all the different types of music and scary lyrics. It is my
favorite track on the album.
“Where Would I Be” returns to a softer approach to people, love,
and emotion. The track could be about a significant person—whatever the
listener wants to interpret it, as is always the case with any song. The lead
guitar and piano playing on this track add a layer of emotion. The lyrics and
vocals are heartfelt and moving, resonating with the listener personally.
Now it's time to close the recording with the title track, “Life
Notes.” After all, this entire album is about a lifetime of memories, events,
and the feelings that surrounded that. This one is thoughtful and about the
meaning of life, and the message is clear: it's about whatever we hold dear.
And that, to me, resonates. The music is well played, and the lyrics are
expressive, with that ever-present strumming acoustic, but, this time, an
electric slide for some more flavor and emphasis is added.
Life Notes is a versatile album that will resonate with music listeners who like to reflect upon their lives and those who could use a little push to do so. The album's soft approach and the moments they decided to cut loose and rock keep the listener engaged. The exemplary musicianship, thoughtful lyrics, and vocals that place enough emphasis on the words when needed make for an absorbing listening experience from start to finish.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net
Founder
September 13, 2024
Tracks:
01. Don't Waste The Dawn 04:12
02. Decisions 06:18
03. Music In Heaven 04:11
04. 350 Degrees 03:13
05. A.I. 04:32
06. This Isn't A Love Song 03:53
07. Back To The Bullet 03:20
08. The Musician 05:15
09. Expanding Shadows 02:30
10. Where Would I Be 03:58
11. Life Notes 02:51
Roger McGuinn In Concert At The Colonial Theater
Pittsfield, MA - September 7, 2024
When I arrived, a lady with CDs was at the merch table. It
happened to be Camilla, Roger's wife, a long-time roadie, and collaborator. She
was lovely and very knowledgeable about Roger's career and music. Every CD for
sale was autographed, so I had to get one, and I always like to support an
artist besides writing a review.
Roger's stage was set up with his guitars, banjo, and a stool, creating an intimate setting. He shared personal stories about his life and the influential people who shaped it, creating a patchwork quilt of musical history. This personal touch made the evening even more enjoyable, especially for those familiar with his music and career.
For those wondering what to expect, this performance is a unique
blend of music (folk, rock, country, blues) and storytelling reminiscent of
VH-1 storytellers and MTV Unplugged. It's an experience that will leave you
captivated and wanting more.
Roger's music history is full and rich with anecdotes and a
lifetime that extends to the present day. As someone who appreciates music and
history, I found it fascinating. He would play excerpts of all the big hits,
like "Mr. Tambourine Man," "Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything
There Is A Season)," and "Mr. Spaceman."
What entertained me, and judging by the positive audience
reactions, was the deep dive into the birth of songs, where and who they came
from, and how they developed. Most are unaware of all the intimate details of a
musical career unless there is a biography on the artist to consume.
He mentioned the Folk Den Project, a digital archive of folk music that he started in 1995 (he has been uploading one track a month since). This project is a testament to his dedication to preserving and sharing folk music, a literal goldmine including over 300 tracks.
Roger McGuinn is a musical treasure; you should experience his
show.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck
September 8, 2024
Format: 3CD/3DVD
Release Date: • April 11, 2024
Label: Chrysalis
Keeping with the ongoing flow of remasters of the Jethro Tull catalog by Steven Wilson, a most excellent live 1978 release, Live Bursting Out (The Inflated Version), is available in the usual book format that all the other releases have arrived in. Hopefully, the vinyl version will follow shortly, as it is a superb live recording. Inflated is an accurate description. It is all packaged in a hardcover book with trays for 3 CDs and 3 DVDs. And if you have a 5.1 surround sound system, you are in for many extras. Also, there is an extensive overview of the recording in 96 pages of text and pictures. It is quite the package that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Here is the breakdown of each disc:
•CD 1: Jethro Tull live: Bursting Out (Part 1) - A Steven Wilson stereo remix. Soundcheck recordings - A Steven Wilson stereo remix. Tracks 7, 10, 11 (full version) & 12-16 previously unreleased
•CD 2: Jethro Tull live: Bursting Out (Part 2) - A Steven Wilson stereo remix
Soundcheck recordings - A Steven Wilson stereo remix. Tracks 11-13 previously unreleased
•CD 3: contains an edited version of the 1978 Madison Square Garden Show, which
was issued in 2009 but is now mixed by Steven Wilson.
•DVDs 1 & 2 have the remixed tracks in 96/24 stereo and 5.1 surround plus the flat transfers of the original album at 96/24 stereo.
•DVD 3 has the full 93-minute MSG show, including 50+ minutes of video, which was part of a transatlantic broadcast with the BBC and Radio 1. The audio is 48/24 stereo and 5.1 surround.
I usually do a track-by-track account in my review of one of my favorite artists to cover; however, the read would be too exhaustive. I can offer prospective buyers and fans who have not pursued this set a more condensed version with what I feel are the most relevant points.
Of course, Ian is the group's focal point, being the frontman, writer, multi-musician, and all-around animated entertainer. So, it was no surprise that the cameras showed close-ups of Ian with sweat glistening on his forehead and face during the Madison Square Garden broadcast video. Those were excellent shots of him performing at his best during the band's peak decade. The shots that pulled away from the stage were foggy and looked dated. Also, the entire show was not on the video; it was missing parts in the front and back of the show. When there is no video, you get a rotation of pictures of the band, which is subpar as well. I am sure they did the best they could with what they had, and the bottom line is that the sound is excellent.
I appreciated the remix Steven Wilson masterfully created, as usual. I found it interesting to see what Ian said about that process. He mentioned he did not want to know what was going on. In his case, I can understand from an artist's standpoint how important your recorded work is, and the fact that Ian is such a professional and perfectionist would cause the man a bad case of nerves to watch Steven at work.
I appreciated Jethro Tull's talent and how they could recreate all of their studio works on the stage with a unique flair and precision. Some of my favorites were "Thick As A Brick," "Aqualung," "Songs From The Wood," "Heavy Horses," "Minstrel In The Gallery," "Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day)," which, as some of your older fans may remember, was on the flip side of the "Bungle in The Jungle" 45. Warchild was my first JT album in the 70s and remains my favorite. I am sure many fans would not agree that it was their best album, but I loved it. Minstrel in the Gallery is the album that followed it, and it impressed me as a musically intense prog rocker. This convinced me to continue to explore their catalog of releases.
If you are a classic prog rock fan, from what most folks say is the most fertile decade of the genre, you need to hear one of the best of that period at the height of their success. There is a valid reason why all these repackaged releases still sell: they are undoubtedly some of the best rock music ever recorded and performed on the stage. You'll agree once you hear this recording again or for the first time. It's on Amazon now for $49.59, a bargain for what you will get in return.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Progressive Music Reviews Founder
August 9, 2024
Tracks: Disc 1: 01. Claude Nobs - Introduction by Claude Nobs (Live) [2024 Remaster] 02. No Lullaby (Live) [2024 Remaster] 03. Sweet Dream (Live) [2024 Remaster] 04. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [2024 Remaster] 05. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [2024 Remaster] 06. One Brown Mouse (Live) [2024 Remaster] 07. Heavy Horses (Live) [2024 Remaster] 08. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [2024 Remaster] 09. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bouree (Medley) [Live] [2024 Remaster] 10. Living in the Past (Live) 11. Songs from the Wood (Live) [2024 Remaster] 12. No Lullaby (Live) 13. Sweet Dream (Live) 14. Heavy Horses (Live) 15. Botanic Man (Live) 16. 4.W.D (Low Ratio) [Live] Disc 2: 01. Thick As a Brick (Live) [2024 Remaster] 02. Hunting Girl (Live) [2024 Remaster] 03. Too Old to Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young to Die! (Live) [2024 Remaster] 04. Conundrum (Live) [2024 Remaster] 05. Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [2024 Remaster] 06. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [2024 Remaster] 07. Quatrain (Live) [2024 Remaster] 08. Aqualung (Live) [2024 Remaster] 09. Locomotive Breath (Live) [2024 Remaster] 10. The Dambusters March (Live) [2024 Remaster] 11. Conundrum (Live) 12. Quatrain (Live) 13. The Dambusters March (Live) Disc 3: 01. Sweet Dream Fanfare (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 02. Sweet Dream (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 03. One Brown Mouse (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 04. Heavy Horses (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 05. Thick As a Brick (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 06. No Lullaby (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 07. Flute Solo Improvisation (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 08. Songs From the Wood (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 09. Quatrain (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 10. Aqualung (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 11. Locomotive Breath (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 12. The Dambusters March (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 13. A Single Man (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 14. Too Old to Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Old to Die! (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 15. My God (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) 16. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) DVD 1: 01. Claude Nobs - Introduction by Claude Nobs (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 02. No Lullaby (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 03. Sweet Dream (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 04. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 05. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 06. One Brown Mouse (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 07. Heavy Horses (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 08. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 09. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bourée (Medley) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 10. Living in the Past (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 11. Songs from the Wood (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 12. No lullaby (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 13. Sweet Dream (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 14. Heavy Horses (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 15. Botanic Man (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 16. 4.W.D (Low Ratio) [Live] [96/24 Stereo] 17. Claude Nobs - Introduction by Claude Nobs (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 18. No Lullaby (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 19. Sweet Dream (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 20. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 21. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 22. One Brown Mouse (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 23. Heavy Horses (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 24. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 25. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bourée (Medley) [Live] [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 26. Living in the Past (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 27. Songs from the Wood (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 28. No lullaby (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 29. Sweet Dream (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 30. Heavy Horses (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 31. Botanic Man (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 32. 4.W.D (Low Ratio) [Live] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 33. No Lullaby (Live) [Flat Transfer] 34. Sweet Dream (Live) [Flat Transfer] 35. Skating Away (On the Thin Ice of the New Day) [Live] [Flat Transfer] 36. Jack-in-the-Green (Live) [Flat Transfer] 37. One Brown Mouse (Live) [Flat Transfer] 38. A New Day Yesterday (Live) [Flat Transfer] 39. Flute Solo Improvisation / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Bourée (Medley) [Live] [Flat Transfer] 40. Songs from the Wood (Live) [Flat Transfer] 41. Thick As A Brick (Live) [Flat Transfer] DVD 2: 01. Thick As A Brick (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 02. Hunting Girl (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 03. Too Old To Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young To Die! (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 04. Conundrum (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 05. Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 06. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 07. Quatrain (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 08. Aqualung (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 09. Locomotive Breath (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 10. The Dambusters March (Live) [2024 Remaster] [96/24 Stereo] 11. Conundrum (Live) [96/24 Stereo 12. Quatrain (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 13. The Dambusters March (Live) [96/24 Stereo] 14. Thick As A Brick (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 15. Hunting Girl (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 16. Too Old To Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young To Die! (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 17. Conundrum (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 18. Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 19. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 20. Quatrain (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 21. Aqualung (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 22. Locomotive Breath (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 23. The Dambusters March (Live) [2024 Remaster] [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 24. Conundrum (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 25. Quatrain (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 26. The Dambusters March (Live) [DD & DTS 5.1 Surround] 27. Hunting Girl (Live) [Flat Transfer] 28. Too Old To Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Young To Die! (Live) [Flat Transfer] 29. Conundrum (Live) [Flat Transfer] 30. Minstrel In The Gallery (Live) [Flat Transfer] 31. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live) [Flat Transfer] 32. Quatrain (Live) [Flat Transfer] 33. Aqualung (Live) [Flat Transfer] 34. Locomotive Breath (Live) [Flat Transfer] 35. The Dambusters March (Live) [Flat Transfer DVD 3: 01. Sweet Dream Fanfare (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 02. Sweet Dream (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 03. One Brown Mouse (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 04. Heavy Horses (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 05. Thick As A Brick (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 06. No Lullaby (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 07. Songs From The Wood (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 08. Quatrain (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 09. Aqualung (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 10. Locomotive Breath (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 11. The Dambusters March (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 12. A Single Man (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 13. Too Old Too Rock ‘n’ Roll: Too Old To Die! (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 14. My God (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) 15. Cross-Eyed Mary (Live at Madison Square Garden October 1978) (Music Video) |
Release Date: May 17, 2024
Label: Che Cosa Guardare
When was the last time you listened to a sound jazz recording? One that had a fusion of ambient, chill, and new age mixed in? Well, it has been quite some time for this listener since I have heard a recording like Keith Fiala's New Beginnings.
"Let
Go" starts things off grandly with much energy and emotion. It has a funky
backbeat with an on-point rhythm section and some sharp guitar lines weaving
throughout, as Keith's smooth trumpet lays down the foundation to build on.
It's a great start to raise your spirits and get that blood pumping.
"She's So Sweet" is
the latest track released before the full album's release on May 17th. It is
sexy, smooth, and oh-so-sweet. The funky bass and guitar complement the trumpet
quite nicely.
"Cityscape"
hits the streets on a hot summer night. Think NYC with all the neon lights and
the nightclubs full of people and music having a good time. It is nighttime in
the city that never sleeps, and a musical soundtrack that keeps that energy
flowing and growing. Jazz meets funk with just the right touch.
"Flow"
starts with an excellent piano introduction as the trumpet slides in quickly.
It is chill jazz for the easy chair on a moonlight night or a table for two in
the corner with a candle burning so you can only see each other and nobody
else—romance at a nice slow and easy pace. The beautiful trumpet with a
prominent bass holds up the bottom end with authority and a softly touched drum
for added elegance.
"Hollywood
& Vine" returns to the city with different colors and attitudes. It's
different than NYC. Here, we have movie stars, rock stars, and many exciting
and well-to-do people. Is it a façade, or does the music make it all real? Once
again, the bass is prominent, leading the way as the trumpet quickly makes its
point. A synth adds some layers for a different touch, playing a more
significant role as the track moves closer to its conclusion.
"Lorena"
is very different from all the previous tracks. It starts with a Latin-flavored
acoustic riff as the trumpet makes its entrance beautifully, as it always does.
The timing is superb, and some excellent percussion keeps the atmosphere of the
serenade to the ladies intact from beginning to end. It is an instrumental love
song with all the trimmings to make it memorable and picturesque. Viva Fiala!
"How Long
Can I Wait" starts with many different sounds converging simultaneously.
It is hectic, and Keith's smooth-as-silk trumpet tempers the enthusiasm of the
activities around it. It is one of the more distinct tracks and needs your
ears' clarification. For me, it was progressive jazz fusion. It may take a few
listens to get it.
"MB's
Groove" is a slow and passionate groove, with the trumpet, bass, and drums
seemingly in sync with the same purpose: to lay it down so you can get into “your
groove” while listening. There is a short burst of the keys around the midpoint
as the horn takes a break and then comes back to lead the way to the close. The
track is so smooth; it is quiet storm jazz at its finest.
"Beyond
Infinity" starts winding towards the end of this jazz omnibus, as more
funk comes your way with a super funked-up bass with a low-end sound. A pedal
is being used for that unique sound. Keith's trumpet just kills it straight on
through. Then jazz to infinity and beyond with a cool keyboard section more
than halfway through. It has a lot of different elements blending to make it
one of the more unique tracks.
"Wits
End" is the end, the curtain closer to a delightful jazz fusion listen. It
ends appropriately with that very funky backbeat and guitar playing a
complementary role to Keith's amazing trumpet playing. Some of the horn parts
sound like classic 70s jazz and an excellent guitar with its wah-wah effects.
It's a trip back in time to the modern way.
This could
be New Beginnings for
many listeners. For this jazz lover, it was a welcome return and reminder of
how much I love jazz fusion and artists who are willing to push the boundaries
of the genre, which Keith Fiala does on this recording with great success. This
consistent and solid release keeps your attention from beginning to end.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder
May 13, 2024
Tracks:
01. Let Go
02. She’s So Sweet
03. Cityscape
04. Flow
05. Hollywood & Vine
06. Lorena
07. How Long Can I Wait
08. MB’s Groove
09. Beyond Infinity
10. Wits End
The girl on
the cover sure looks sweet, doesn't she? Once you hear this man's trumpet
playing, you will agree that that horn has plenty of sweetness!
While
listening to this track, I was reminded of the smoothness of the incredible
Herb Alpert. One of the cool things about it is a sitar solo by Ken Berry. That
was certainly an unexpected twist in a jazz tune. As different as that may
seem, it works incredibly well. With that in mind, the artist should
continue to pursue this divergent path in his musical journey.
If Keith Fiala
decides to push the trumpet's boundaries, I think the outcome will be as
captivating as "She's So Sweet."
Give it a listen.
If you like to explore something different for a change, you will appreciate it
as much as I did.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder
Monday, April 29, 2024
Keith
Fiala is a master LA-based trumpeter, composer/arranger, author, producer,
technical consultant, and clinician.
He's
been a featured member of the legendary Maynard Ferguson Band, as well as with
Maestro Arturo Sandoval's various ensembles.
Formerly,
Arturo’s assistant, Fiala, was an active, integral part of and participant in
Sandoval's recordings, live performances, and film scoring/soundtrack efforts…READ MORE…
Release Date: April 12, 2024
Label: Frontiers
Ghost Stories, possibly the Blue Oyster Cult swan song, is a nostalgic journey back to the band's prime. As the two remaining original members age, this album serves as a heartfelt tribute to their past, pulling out some gems for the longtime fans.
It stands out as a
significant release, not just for its musical content but also for the
long-awaited return of Albert and Joe Bouchard and the heartfelt tribute to the
late Allan Lanier. These elements imbue the album with a historical depth,
making it a compelling listen for longtime fans.
The vinyl edition of Ghost Stories is a
visual treat. The artwork's intricate details (and hidden messages?) serve as a
unique storytelling medium. It beautifully captures the essence of the tracks,
which are like ghosts in the attic, now brought back to life and polished.
Side A starts with "Late
Night Street Fight," a strong opener." "Cherry" is a
classic old-school rock with a summertime AM radio station feel—mind you, this
was the 1970s. One part of the song has a quiet interlude, then changes with
the guitars cutting loose with fire. So, we are off to a good start two tracks
in.
Then comes the longest track,
"So Supernatural," which clocks in at 5:55. It is classic BOC with
music and a theme all fans will recognize. It is one of the strongest
compositions on the LP.
If you are familiar with The
Animals (Eric Bourdon), you will love their version of "We Gotta Get Out
of This Place." Eric Bloom does a great job with the vocals; the
musicianship is spot on. It's a rock classic on steroids.
"Soul Jive" is
probably the album's most out-of-their-comfort-zone song. It is very cool,
though. A catchy beginning riff sets the tone with a more subdued guitar. The
music is soft but well done, even if you like the rockers more. However, there
are some things to appreciate.
"Gun" closes out
side A. It's back to rockin' the house faster and another one of my favorites.
Side B opens with "Shot
in the Dark." Picture the scene: a smokey bar room with a piano player.
Eric starts talking and telling the story before the music and singing kick in.
It is a fine opener with lots of high-energy BOC at work and an excellent lead
guitar.
"The Only Thing" is
Buck Dharma's perfect song. His voice is the spice that flavors the words and
makes them believable. It's a slow-burner love song but features some fitting
rockin' funky organ and bass. There is a good guitar break towards the end.
Do you remember, or are you
familiar with MC5? Well, here it is, BOC style. "Kick Out the Jams,"
indeed! Wayne Kramer (RIP February this year) must be smiling down upon this
one from his seat in rock 'n' roll heaven. It's another absolute favorite I
could listen to daily.
"Money Machine" is
a real toe-tapper. It has a great rhythm, accompanied by the piano tinkling as
the guitars wail. Excellent!
"Don't Come Running to
Me" features quick guitar bursts throughout, with passionate vocals making
a point as they sing, "Don't come running to me if he breaks your
heart." Well, you get the idea.
Would they end the album with
some force and flex their rock muscles? Wrong! They cover The Beatles' song
"If I Fell." What a mistake. It is horrendous. It's a very
disappointing way to end a decent album from the archives.
It is undoubtedly not one of
my favorite BOC albums, but it was a fun listen. It was nice to reminisce back
when they were one of the hottest bands on earth. It is a sample of those times
and a reminder of how talented this band was.
If you're a BOC fan, you have
to have it; an average rock fan, look to their early catalog of releases to
find out how good they were. I recommend Agents of Fortune, Secret Treaties,
Fire of Unknown Origin, and On Your Feet or On Your Knees (live).
If Ghost Stories is the
curtain call for BOC studio work, then all things considered, it's a good exit
strategy.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder
April 18, 2024
Tracks:
Side A:
1. Late Night Street Fight
2. Cherry
3. So Supernatural
4. We Gotta Get Out of This Place
5. Soul Jive
6. Gun
Side B:
1. Shot in the Dark
2. The Only Thing
3. Kick Out the Jams
4. Money Machine
5. Don't Come Running to Me
6. If I Fell