Instrumental Rock Fusion-Jazz-Blues Review: Nic Weatherly-Home Again

Release Date: August 30, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Nic Weatherly is a diverse guitar player who released his EP Home a month ago. His website explained what to expect, and he promised a varied listen of instrumental guitar work.

"Redemption" starts the album with a jazzy acoustic sound and a good backing rhythm. It has a great feel and makes your feet move without thinking. Some of the picking is extraordinary in between the main leads and melody. 

"I Do" starts at a much softer, slower pace than the previous opening track, allowing the listener to flip the mood to the other side of the coin. Some lovely acoustic playing fills the air with well-defined notes. Nic's playing is precise but unpredictable, which I particularly enjoy because I already realized the man's talent from the start. It's a slow mover and some excellent playing once again.

"Blind" kicks off with some jazzy, funky licks. It is energetic and complex, with some great tone and changes throughout the track, albeit some fast pick work. Some strong bass and timely drums accompany the dazzling fretwork. It was a great way to get momentum and continuity, sparking anticipation and leaving the listener eager for what's next. It is the kind of instrumental jazz-rock fusion that keeps you on your toes!

"O Jul Med Din Glede" translates as "O Christmas with your joy," and the tempo and sound surely match what the title is saying. It sounded like hints of Celtic music at times to me, but it is a Norwegian song. It is a very upbeat tune, yet it also brings comfort and spirituality that washes over you nearly instantly. It's a great tune to mix into this varied EP, leaving you feeling uplifted and serene.

"LaVonne" is likely about a woman in his life, so I am anticipating something special. Possibly the lady on the front of the cover artwork, I will guess his mother or grandmother. Once again, we get a touching presentation of acoustic string expertise with some violin for more feeling and a very subtle drum to keep the pace. The emotional depth in this track is palpable, making it clear that this person was extraordinary in his life.

Nic Weatherly is an excellent guitar player, and if this is a sample of what he can do, I would love to hear a full album. His talents are far-reaching within those strings on a guitar. It is readily apparent from beginning to end that he plays any style of music that he wants, and Home is a window into those capabilities.

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

Peppos-Jones Band Review and Interview: Life Notes

Genre: Rock-Pop

Release Date: August 29, 2024

Website

I first heard music from Peppos and Jones in 2019. Louis Jones was also in that band. The title was 50/80, 50 Years in 80 Minutes. Additionally, I had a blast interviewing these old high school friends.

The album Life Notes was released a few weeks ago. It opens with a rousing “Don't Waste The Dawn.” Because it was several years back, I did not recall the sound as much as I would have liked, but I know the lead vocals are different. And I don’t mean that in a negative way. It is a great way to kick off the recording. 

“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

Concert Review: Roger McGuinn In Concert At The Colonial Theater

            Roger McGuinn In Concert At The Colonial Theater

                          Pittsfield, MA - September 7, 2024

Last night at the Colonial Theater in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, the atmosphere was electric as a packed house prepared to immerse themselves in memories. Not just their memories but those of the music legend Roger McGuinn. The stage was set with a simple arrangement of guitars, a banjo, and a stool, creating an intimate setting for a night to remember with music and stories from an artist who has made music for over six decades.

 

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

Prog Rock Review: Jethro Tull-Live Bursting Out (The Inflated Version-3CD/3DVD) Format: 3CD/3DVD

Format: 3CD/3DVD

Release Date: • April 11, 2024

Label: Chrysalis

Website

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)

Jazz Fusion Review: Keith Fiala-New Beginnings

Release Date: May 17, 2024

Label: ‎ Che Cosa Guardare

Website

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 

Featured Jazz Track: Keith Fiala-She’s So Sweet

 "She's So Sweet" is Keith Fiala's most recent single. 

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…

Vinyl Review: Blue Oyster Cult-Ghost Stories

Release Date: April 12, 2024

Label: ‎Frontiers

Website

Source Link

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