Showing posts with label Rock Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rock Reviews. Show all posts

11/25/2018

Rock-Blues Review: Big Brother & The Holding Company-Sex, Dope & Cheap Thrills

Release Date: November 30, 2018
Label: Columbia/Legacy

Brother & The Holding Company with iconic lead singer Janis Joplin, had a sophomore album titled Cheap Thrills that would catapult them to stardom and introduced the world to Joplin. Sex, Dope & Cheap Thrills is a risqué title for an album and it was 1968 so as one can imagine, that title was nixed by the label for fear of public retribution which would equal poor sales. This was a typical reaction from label brass at the time. I think the album would have found just as much popularity regardless of any title it had. This double CD set restores the band’s original intent for that blockbuster release.

Within this set, there is an essential new collection of 30 rare performances including 29 studio outtakes and 25 previously unreleased tracks from the mythic 1968 sessions that generated Big Brother & The Holding Company's Cheap Thrills. This also debuts a previously unreleased live performance of a smokin’ hot “Ball and Chain," recorded live at Winterland Ballroom on April 12, 1968.

As far as I am concerned, Janis Joplin was one of the greatest blues singers that ever graced a stage or studio. I think this set will reaffirm that statement and younger fans will come aboard the Big Brother and Holding Company train after hearing this music. Joplin’s emotion-soaked vocals and painful releases of those emotions can be heard in her vocals and the accompanying music. One listen to “Turtle Blues (Take #4)” tells the story of her mastery over the blues.

What I found extremely interesting was reading the CD booklet included with this set. Some history I was unaware of was brought to light. The notes from Dave Getz and Grace Slick were certainly a great addition to this set. The picture of a very young and beautiful Slick and Joplin gets your mind reeling and wondering what was going on in that particular moment in time. If we only could look at a picture of the past and just step in to check it out real time, that would be amazing. Alas, we can dream of moments such as this and realistically get everything we possibly can from the music, words, and pictures provided.


“Oh, Sweet Mary” is an excellent track (7) on the first disc. The band and Joplin are just cranking it out with the pedal to the metal. I really appreciated her vocals when she sang and didn’t scream but I do realize that was part of how she conveyed the raw emotions of the songs to her audience. “Piece of My Heart” (Take 6) is so convincing. It sounds like Joplin is singing right from her toes directly to her heart. She always did sound that way regardless of what song she sang. “Catch Me Daddy (Take 1)” gets off to an interesting start as the sound engineer tells the band “Keep playing if you fuck up, I want to get something down.” Well, it doesn’t get any more realistic than that! 

The second disc opens with “Flower in The Sun.” The track has a clean sound and the musicianship is spot on of course. Joplin matches that fine playing with her typically emotive singing style. She was “the” blues mama of her day, there is no doubt about that fact. The track is above average and a different take on their style and output of the day. Being a slight step away from what their audience was accustomed to was likely looked at as taking chance, but now we get to hear the more experimental side of the band. “Oh, Sweet Mary” continues on with that method and it takes on a different style and approach than what you heard on disc one and one that I really appreciated. The extended guitar solo is excellent and it really shows just how tight the rhythm section was. This was one amazing band and this particular track proves just how good they were and could be if given the chance to cut loose free-form style in the studio.

Janis Joplin and Big Brother and The Holding Company were the real deal and it simply does not get any more down and dirtier than some of these cuts. This is the way blues rock was meant to sound like, filled with emotion, blood, sweat, and tears. And that is exactly why Joplin showed up at the right time for the band, she was the final piece of the puzzle that made it all happen. Hearing all this archival material is a great way for any music fan to turn back the hands of time and relive the sessions for the first time.

Note From Columbia/Legacy: Of the 30 tracks showcased on the 2-CD edition of Sex, Dope & Cheap Thrills, only five have been previously released: “Summertime (Take 2)” (on a 1993 Joplin compilation); “Roadblock (Take 1)” (on the 1999 Cheap Thrills reissue); “It’s A Deal (Take 1)” and “Easy Once You Know How (Take 1)” (both on the 1999 “Rare Pearls” disc in the Box of Pearls set); and “Magic Of Love (Take 1)” (from the Columbia/Legacy Record Store Day release, Move Over!).

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
November 24, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan Reviews & News

Tracks:

 Disc One:

1. Combination Of The Two (Take 3)
2. I Need A Man To Love (Take 4)
3. Summertime (Take 2) *
4. Piece Of My Heart (Take 6)
5. Harry (Take 10)
6. Turtle Blues (Take 4)
7. Oh, Sweet Mary
8. Ball And Chain (live, The Winterland Ballroom, April 12, 1968)
9. Roadblock (Take 1) *
10. Catch Me Daddy (Take 1)
11. It’s A Deal (Take 1) *
12. Easy Once You Know How (Take 1) *
13. How Many Times Blues Jam
14. Farewell Song (Take 7)


Disc Two:

1. Flower In The Sun (Take 3)
2. Oh Sweet Mary
3. Summertime (Take 1)
4. Piece of My Heart (Take 4)
5. Catch Me Daddy (Take 9)
6. Catch Me Daddy (Take 10)
7. I Need A Man To Love (Take 3)
8. Harry (Take 9)
9. Farewell Song (Take 4)
10. Misery’n (Takes 2 & 3)
11. Misery’n (Take 4)
12. Magic Of Love (Take 1) *
13. Turtle Blues (Take 9)
14. Turtle Blues (last verse Takes 1-3)
15. Piece Of My Heart (Take 3)
16. Farewell Song (Take 5)

All tracks previously unreleased except*

11/04/2018

Rock LP Review: The Rolling Stones Beggars Banquet 50th Anniversary Deluxe LP Set (Ltd. Edition)

Release Date: November 16, 2018
Label: ABKCO

The limited-edition vinyl release of The Rolling Stones Beggars Banquet 50th Anniversary Deluxe LP set features a gatefold jacket, 180-gram stereo vinyl, a bonus vinyl 12" "Sympathy For the Devil" single in mono (backed with an etching of the original release's "toilet" cover), and a replica of the Japanese bonus flexi disc featuring a 1968 phone interview with Mick Jagger is also included. This edition is wrapped in the "RSVP" cover art.  How is that for music fans, especially Stones enthusiast? It is quite a beautiful package to enjoy.

The thing bands like the Stones and Zeppelin did with the blues is what made them so popular. Taking rudimentary blues songs and turning them into delicious morsels of rock, literally owning the song within their own framework and interpretation. This is something that is still going on to this day but not at that level. For the Stones, how could they possibly top the apex of their career Their Satanic Majesties Request? I do not think it was a matter of toping the first release, it was more important for the band to come up with something different than their last release to keep it fresh. And more importantly, feature their creativity and hold on to their prospective audience. Well, they always managed to do that and Beggars Banquet was no exception. On the copy of the Japanese flexi disc Jagger responds to the question from the interviewer if the album is going sound similar to the last release. He retorts “It is different than the last album, it’s supposed to sound different.”  It is a bit difficult to make out what Jagger is saying at times because the telephone lines were not as advanced and clear as they are today. With that said, it is a nice addition to the set just the same.

Beggars Banquet was a superb album, one of the many classics the Stones would record during their career. This (for me anyway) has to be in the top five of their greatest achievements. The additional things that make this set so special will surely make all music fans appreciative. The record labels have become very innovative with the packaging of vinyl releases such as this. If there is not enough room to fill one side of vinyl, what is the option? Some cool etchings that’s what! It really is a bonus to see that kind of space utilized smartly particularly in this case where the original releases toilet cover is featured. I personally appreciate any kind of art related to the music and if it comes in one package that is just the icing on the cake.

The sound on vinyl is amazing, of course, what else would I say right? Everything sounds great on vinyl and for all those years I thought CDs were the bomb and they could never come up with a cleaner sound, wrong! We have come full circle, even with all the streaming services available and device options to listen to music, you simply cannot challenge the “complete” musical experience that vinyl can offer. This is one great example of how to celebrate an iconic album and I am sure we will see many more to come.

Stereo or Mono is always good, I do prefer stereo. Listening to “Sympathy For The Devil” in mono is different of course, but that being my favorite track, it sounded just as wonderful hearing it again after listening to the original stereo version. Having one track on an LP side harkens back to the days of 78 wax.

“Street Fighting Man” was another incredible track that stands up well today. The Stones created music that is timeless just like their UK friends The Beatles. Their music was so different that there really could not be a rivalry for the same audience. Some love the Stones and vice-a-versa and there is no argument. Myself, I love both bands and appreciate all their contributions to modern music.

“Stray Cat Blues” is a great track that gets back to their earlier blues roots but is more polished and defined then what you would hear on their first few releases. They certainly had their own sound and Jagger’s vocals were unique. The maturity of the band comes flowing through with ease on this album.

Besides having such a wonderful package to hold in your hands and spin on your turntable, you get a limited-edition release with all the trimmings. I think Beggars Banquet has stood the test of time and so will vinyl during this second resurgence. Like Yogi Berra quipped “Its déjà vu all over again.”  But isn’t it sweet to do again with all the extras? I think so.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
November 2, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan’s Reviews & News

Tracks: 
01. Sympathy For The Devil
02. No Expectations
03. Dear Doctor
04. Parachute Woman
05. Jig - Saw Puzzle
06. Street Fighting Man
07. Prodigal Son
08. Stray Cat Blues
09. Factory Girl
10. Salt of the Earth

11/03/2018

Rock LP Review: The Rolling Stones Beggars Banquet 50th Anniversary Deluxe LP Set (Ltd. Edition)

Release Date: November 16, 2018
Label: ABKCO

The limited-edition vinyl release of The Rolling Stones Beggars Banquet 50th Anniversary Deluxe LP set features a gatefold jacket, 180-gram stereo vinyl, a bonus vinyl 12" "Sympathy For the Devil" single in mono (backed with an etching of the original release's "toilet" cover), and a replica of the Japanese bonus flexi disc featuring a 1968 phone interview with Mick Jagger is also included. This edition is wrapped in the "RSVP" cover art.  How is that for music fans, especially Stones enthusiast? It is quite a beautiful package to enjoy.

The thing bands like the Stones and Zeppelin did with the blues is what made them so popular. Taking rudimentary blues songs and turning them into delicious morsels of rock, literally owning the song within their own framework and interpretation. This is something that is still going on to this day but not at that level. For the Stones, how could they possibly top the apex of their career Their Satanic Majesties Request? I do not think it was a matter of toping the first release, it was more important for the band to come up with something different than their last release to keep it fresh. And more importantly, feature their creativity and hold on to their prospective audience. Well, they always managed to do that and Beggars Banquet was no exception. On the copy of the Japanese flexi disc Jagger responds to the question from the interviewer if the album is going sound similar to the last release. He retorts “It is different than the last album, it’s supposed to sound different.”  It is a bit difficult to make out what Jagger is saying at times because the telephone lines were not as advanced and clear as they are today. With that said, it is a nice addition to the set just the same.

Beggars Banquet was a superb album, one of the many classics the Stones would record during their career. This (for me anyway) has to be in the top five of their greatest achievements. The additional things that make this set so special will surely make all music fans appreciative. The record labels have become very innovative with the packaging of vinyl releases such as this. If there is not enough room to fill one side of vinyl, what is the option? Some cool etchings that’s what! It really is a bonus to see that kind of space utilized smartly particularly in this case where the original releases toilet cover is featured. I personally appreciate any kind of art related to the music and if it comes in one package that is just the icing on the cake.

The sound on vinyl is amazing, of course, what else would I say right? Everything sounds great on vinyl and for all those years I thought CDs were the bomb and they could never come up with a cleaner sound, wrong! We have come full circle, even with all the streaming services available and device options to listen to music, you simply cannot challenge the “complete” musical experience that vinyl can offer. This is one great example of how to celebrate an iconic album and I am sure we will see many more to come.

Stereo or Mono is always good, I do prefer stereo. Listening to “Sympathy For The Devil” in mono is different of course, but that being my favorite track, it sounded just as wonderful hearing it again after listening to the original stereo version. Having one track on an LP side harkens back to the days of 78 wax.

“Street Fighting Man” was another incredible track that stands up well today. The Stones created music that is timeless just like their UK friends The Beatles. Their music was so different that there really could not be a rivalry for the same audience. Some love the Stones and vice-a-versa and there is no argument. Myself, I love both bands and appreciate all their contributions to modern music.

“Stray Cat Blues” is a great track that gets back to their earlier blues roots but is more polished and defined then what you would hear on their first few releases. They certainly had their own sound and Jagger’s vocals were unique. The maturity of the band comes flowing through with ease on this album.

Besides having such a wonderful package to hold in your hands and spin on your turntable, you get a limited-edition release with all the trimmings. I think Beggars Banquet has stood the test of time and so will vinyl during this second resurgence. Like Yogi Berra quipped “Its déjà vu all over again.”  But isn’t it sweet to do again with all the extras? I think so.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
November 2, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan’s Reviews & News

Tracks: 
01. Sympathy For The Devil
02. No Expectations
03. Dear Doctor
04. Parachute Woman
05. Jig - Saw Puzzle
06. Street Fighting Man
07. Prodigal Son
08. Stray Cat Blues
09. Factory Girl
10. Salt of the Earth

10/06/2018

Rock-Prog-Pop Vinyl Review: ELO (Electric Light Orchestra)-The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978

Release Date: September 21, 2018
Label: Sony

Electric Light Orchestra, better known as ELO for brevity purposes, has a large body of work dating back to the 70s. The first album I ever bought was Eldorado. I remember how different that album sounded the first time I heard it. At that time, I enjoyed it but not as much as I do now. With the passing of time, great music reaches a different level as heard through the ears of a more mature listener (like everything it is a matter of time). 

Over the last few years, I have immersed myself in purchasing and listening to all kinds of vinyl, actually a lot of it is what I used to own and subsequently got rid of in my foolish youth.

So along comes The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978 offering an opportunity to reminisce and hear all those big hits and tracks that were previously only available in the UK. 

For this listener, it was a complete joy to hear all this music and watch it spin around on my turntable. That whole experience of having the vinyl to hold in your hand with the artwork for each individual 45, is what it is all about. The sound is incredible, vinyl has CDs beat by a long shot. The sound of vinyl is more natural and warmer - take away the digitizing, downloading and iTunes and what do you have? Not only something physical but music as it was meant to be heard. This was remastered from the analog source tapes. That fact should get audiophiles salivating.

Jeff Lynn has been and always will be the main cog in the wheel that keeps ELO rolling along. In fact, they are going on tour for the first time in 30 years as Jeff Lynn’s ELO. The music stands on its own. Well put together packages like The U.K. Singles Volume One: 1972-1978 do not come around on a regular basis so it immediately becomes a treasure trove of delights for any vinyl junkie or ELO fan. Check off both boxes for me in regards to those two points. 

The Beatles influence in the ELO cannon has always been obvious and their leader has always acknowledged that influence. For my ears, that works just fine as I love the Fab Four without question and I can spot their influence in anything I hear. Make no mistake about it, this band proved unequivocally that you could rock and add orchestra related instruments to the mix and it all would sound killer if done well. It goes without saying that Jeff and his band really had that formula down straight away. It has taken some years to really appreciate this music more as I mentioned earlier but you cannot deny the string of radio-friendly hits that were blaring out of the radio back in the 70s. I was there and heard it all which makes getting this set that much sweeter and more memorable. 

Some of the highlights in a box set jammed with them were “538 Overture b/w First Movement (Jumping Biz) * (1972 – U.K. No. 9),” which reminded me fondly of the great instrumental from the 60s titled “Classical Gas.” There are some riffs in that track that sounded unmistakable as far as my ears were concerned. This is not unusual at all it just made me smile inside to feel that recognition so quickly.

“Showdown b/w In Old England Town (Instrumental) (1973 – U.K. No. 12)” was so good to hear again on vinyl and “Old England Town (Instrumental)” was an odd bird but certainly quite original and a step away from the ELO norm. It is one track I will not forget.

“Can't Get It Out Of My Head b/w Illusions In G Major (1974)” features a great rocker on the B side “Illusions In G Major,” so don’t be fooled by the track titles that may imply you are going hear something complex and progressive, you may hear a flat-out rocker like this one.
 
Of course, there is the all-time classic “Evil Woman,” no doubt one of their most recognized hit singles. To sweeten the pie, it is backed with “10538 Overture (live) (1974 – U.K. No. 10),” which is excellent.

On to the surprises I found in the set…All along I was thinking it was standard black vinyl. “Livin Thing” and “Mr. Blue Sky,” turn out to be that beautiful translucent blue vinyl. That was the icing on the cake for this collector/music freak. 

When all is said and done The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978 is a must-have for any ELO fan or music fan for that matter. So, snag it up and put under the tree this year for the music lover you know, that is if you can stand waiting that long to crack the seal and give it an ear yourself!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
October 5, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan Reviews & News


Tracks:

Electric Light Orchestra

The U.K. Singles Volume One: 1972-1978

Disc 1: 10538 Overture b/w First Movement (Jumping Biz)* (1972 – U.K. No. 9)
Disc 2: Roll Over Beethoven** b/w Queen Of The Hours (1973 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 3: Showdown b/w In Old England Town (Instrumental) (1973 – U.K. No. 12)
Disc 4: Ma-Ma-Ma Belle b/w Oh No Not Susan (1974 – U.K. No. 22)
Disc 5: Can't Get It Out Of My Head b/w Illusions In G Major (1974)
Disc 6: Evil Woman b/w 10538 Overture (live) (1974 – U.K. No. 10)
Disc 7: Nightrider b/w Daybreaker (live)(1976)
Disc 8: Strange Magic b/w Showdown (live) (1976 – U.K. No. 38)
Disc 9: Livin' Thing b/w Fire On High (1976 – U.K. No. 4)
Disc 10: Rockaria! b/w Poker (1976 – U.K. No. 9)
Disc 11: Telephone Line b/w Poor Boy (The Greenwood) / King Of The Universe
(1977 – U.K. No. 8)
Disc 12: Turn To Stone b/w Mister Kingdom (1977 – U.K. No. 18)
Disc 13: Mr. Blue Sky b/w One Summer Dream (1978 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 14: Wild West Hero b/w Eldorado (1978 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 15: Sweet Talkin' Woman b/w Bluebird Is Dead (1978 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 16: The ELO EP: Can't Get It Out Of My Head / Strange Magic b/w Ma-Ma-Ma Belle / Evil Woman (1978 – U.K. No. 34)


Rock-Prog-Pop Vinyl Review: ELO (Electric Light Orchestra)-The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978

Release Date: September 21, 2018
Label: Sony

Electric Light Orchestra, better known as ELO for brevity purposes, has a large body of work dating back to the 70s. The first album I ever bought was Eldorado. I remember how different that album sounded the first time I heard it. At that time, I enjoyed it but not as much as I do now. With the passing of time, great music reaches a different level as heard through the ears of a more mature listener (like everything it is a matter of time). 

Over the last few years, I have immersed myself in purchasing and listening to all kinds of vinyl, actually a lot of it is what I used to own and subsequently got rid of in my foolish youth.

So along comes The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978 offering an opportunity to reminisce and hear all those big hits and tracks that were previously only available in the UK. 

For this listener, it was a complete joy to hear all this music and watch it spin around on my turntable. That whole experience of having the vinyl to hold in your hand with the artwork for each individual 45, is what it is all about. The sound is incredible, vinyl has CDs beat by a long shot. The sound of vinyl is more natural and warmer - take away the digitizing, downloading and iTunes and what do you have? Not only something physical but music as it was meant to be heard. This was remastered from the analog source tapes. That fact should get audiophiles salivating.

Jeff Lynn has been and always will be the main cog in the wheel that keeps ELO rolling along. In fact, they are going on tour for the first time in 30 years as Jeff Lynn’s ELO. The music stands on its own. Well put together packages like The U.K. Singles Volume One: 1972-1978 do not come around on a regular basis so it immediately becomes a treasure trove of delights for any vinyl junkie or ELO fan. Check off both boxes for me in regards to those two points. 

The Beatles influence in the ELO cannon has always been obvious and their leader has always acknowledged that influence. For my ears, that works just fine as I love the Fab Four without question and I can spot their influence in anything I hear. Make no mistake about it, this band proved unequivocally that you could rock and add orchestra related instruments to the mix and it all would sound killer if done well. It goes without saying that Jeff and his band really had that formula down straight away. It has taken some years to really appreciate this music more as I mentioned earlier but you cannot deny the string of radio-friendly hits that were blaring out of the radio back in the 70s. I was there and heard it all which makes getting this set that much sweeter and more memorable. 

Some of the highlights in a box set jammed with them were “538 Overture b/w First Movement (Jumping Biz) * (1972 – U.K. No. 9),” which reminded me fondly of the great instrumental from the 60s titled “Classical Gas.” There are some riffs in that track that sounded unmistakable as far as my ears were concerned. This is not unusual at all it just made me smile inside to feel that recognition so quickly.

“Showdown b/w In Old England Town (Instrumental) (1973 – U.K. No. 12)” was so good to hear again on vinyl and “Old England Town (Instrumental)” was an odd bird but certainly quite original and a step away from the ELO norm. It is one track I will not forget.

“Can't Get It Out Of My Head b/w Illusions In G Major (1974)” features a great rocker on the B side “Illusions In G Major,” so don’t be fooled by the track titles that may imply you are going hear something complex and progressive, you may hear a flat-out rocker like this one.
 
Of course, there is the all-time classic “Evil Woman,” no doubt one of their most recognized hit singles. To sweeten the pie, it is backed with “10538 Overture (live) (1974 – U.K. No. 10),” which is excellent.

On to the surprises I found in the set…All along I was thinking it was standard black vinyl. “Livin Thing” and “Mr. Blue Sky,” turn out to be that beautiful translucent blue vinyl. That was the icing on the cake for this collector/music freak. 

When all is said and done The UK Singles Volume One 1972-1978 is a must-have for any ELO fan or music fan for that matter. So, snag it up and put under the tree this year for the music lover you know, that is if you can stand waiting that long to crack the seal and give it an ear yourself!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
October 5, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan Reviews & News


Tracks:

Electric Light Orchestra

The U.K. Singles Volume One: 1972-1978

Disc 1: 10538 Overture b/w First Movement (Jumping Biz)* (1972 – U.K. No. 9)
Disc 2: Roll Over Beethoven** b/w Queen Of The Hours (1973 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 3: Showdown b/w In Old England Town (Instrumental) (1973 – U.K. No. 12)
Disc 4: Ma-Ma-Ma Belle b/w Oh No Not Susan (1974 – U.K. No. 22)
Disc 5: Can't Get It Out Of My Head b/w Illusions In G Major (1974)
Disc 6: Evil Woman b/w 10538 Overture (live) (1974 – U.K. No. 10)
Disc 7: Nightrider b/w Daybreaker (live)(1976)
Disc 8: Strange Magic b/w Showdown (live) (1976 – U.K. No. 38)
Disc 9: Livin' Thing b/w Fire On High (1976 – U.K. No. 4)
Disc 10: Rockaria! b/w Poker (1976 – U.K. No. 9)
Disc 11: Telephone Line b/w Poor Boy (The Greenwood) / King Of The Universe
(1977 – U.K. No. 8)
Disc 12: Turn To Stone b/w Mister Kingdom (1977 – U.K. No. 18)
Disc 13: Mr. Blue Sky b/w One Summer Dream (1978 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 14: Wild West Hero b/w Eldorado (1978 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 15: Sweet Talkin' Woman b/w Bluebird Is Dead (1978 – U.K. No. 6)
Disc 16: The ELO EP: Can't Get It Out Of My Head / Strange Magic b/w Ma-Ma-Ma Belle / Evil Woman (1978 – U.K. No. 34)


3/28/2018

Rock-Blues Review: Cream-Nineteen Sixty-Seven

Release Date: April 6, 2018
Label: Vogon

Cream Nineteen Sixty-Seven features a fantastic live recording made for Swedish radio in March 1967 and previously unreleased BBC radio sessions. Also included are live in-concert and live in the studio recordings made in the period leading up to their classic 1967 album Disraeli Gears.

Personally, I have always appreciated Cream and the talents of Eric Clapton (guitar, vocals), Jack Bruce (bass, vocals) and Ginger Baker (drums). I remember when the first round of the remastered catalog CD releases came out many years ago. I was in awe of their power and skill. They were the first supergroup trio that I can recollect. 

This CD is a documentation of a band maturing from a rock-blues band to a progressive wide-open rock-blues improvisation unit. You can hear them stretching out on all of the eleven tracks. “Toad” for instance, just cuts loose on every instrument. Baker’s drums are simply phenomenal and of course, Bruce playing bass, keeping up with his rhythm section mate, is a true wonder. And last but not least is Clapton, peeling off some scorching licks on his six-string. 

Cream was a band destined for music immortality and the music these three men made was incredible. If you stop and considered what they presented, it sounded more like 4 or 5 musicians. That is how amazing they were.

Nineteen Sixty-Seven is a fantastic recording considering how dated it is. The Vogon label did a nice job of curating and a mastering the tracks. They are as clear and concise as I could have hoped for from that time period.

Another example of how this band was cooking along is “Traintime,” with Bruce on harmonica. He definitely emulated a train rolling down the tracks on that blues burner.

Cream fans will be glad to know that this is not just for the completist. This is a group of recordings that have great historical value but at the same time hold up very well to this day. At some point, this release will be coming out on vinyl and I know I will want a copy.

The Vogon label has a growing library of releases of classic rock music. I have provided a link to the Discogs site so you can take a look for yourself.

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
March 26, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan Reviews and News

Tracks:
01. N.S.U.
02. Stepping Out 
03. Traintime 
04. Toad 
05. I'm So Glad 
06. Sleepy Time Time ("Saturday Club", Recorded 8 November 1966 - Broadcast 11 November 1966) 
07. I'm So Glad ("Saturday Club", Recorded 8 November 1966 - Broadcast 11 November 1966) 
08. Traintime ("Saturday Club", Recorded 10 January 1967 - Broadcast 14 January 1967)
09. Toad ("Saturday Club", Recorded 10 January 1967 - Broadcast 14 January 1967) 
10. Tales of Brave Ulysses ("Joe Loss Show", 14 July 1967) 
11. Take it Back ("Joe Loss Show", 14 July 1967)

 

3/26/2018

Rock-Blues Review: Cream-Nineteen Sixty-Seven

Release Date: April 6, 2018
Label: Vogon

Cream Nineteen Sixty-Seven features a fantastic live recording made for Swedish radio in March 1967 and previously unreleased BBC radio sessions. Also included are live in-concert and live in the studio recordings made in the period leading up to their classic 1967 album Disraeli Gears.

Personally, I have always appreciated Cream and the talents of Eric Clapton (guitar, vocals), Jack Bruce (bass, vocals) and Ginger Baker (drums). I remember when the first round of the remastered catalog CD releases came out many years ago. I was in awe of their power and skill. They were the first supergroup trio that I can recollect. 

This CD is a documentation of a band maturing from a rock-blues band to a progressive wide-open rock-blues improvisation unit. You can hear them stretching out on all of the eleven tracks. “Toad” for instance, just cuts loose on every instrument. Baker’s drums are simply phenomenal and of course, Bruce playing bass, keeping up with his rhythm section mate, is a true wonder. And last but not least is Clapton, peeling off some scorching licks on his six-string. 

Cream was a band destined for music immortality and the music these three men made was incredible. If you stop and considered what they presented, it sounded more like 4 or 5 musicians. That is how amazing they were.

Nineteen Sixty-Seven is a fantastic recording considering how dated it is. The Vogon label did a nice job of curating and a mastering the tracks. They are as clear and concise as I could have hoped for from that time period.

Another example of how this band was cooking along is “Traintime,” with Bruce on harmonica. He definitely emulated a train rolling down the tracks on that blues burner.

Cream fans will be glad to know that this is not just for the completist. This is a group of recordings that have great historical value but at the same time hold up very well to this day. At some point, this release will be coming out on vinyl and I know I will want a copy.

The Vogon label has a growing library of releases of classic rock music. I have provided a link to the Discogs site so you can take a look for yourself.

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
March 26, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan Reviews and News

Tracks:
01. N.S.U.
02. Stepping Out 
03. Traintime 
04. Toad 
05. I'm So Glad 
06. Sleepy Time Time ("Saturday Club", Recorded 8 November 1966 - Broadcast 11 November 1966) 
07. I'm So Glad ("Saturday Club", Recorded 8 November 1966 - Broadcast 11 November 1966) 
08. Traintime ("Saturday Club", Recorded 10 January 1967 - Broadcast 14 January 1967)
09. Toad ("Saturday Club", Recorded 10 January 1967 - Broadcast 14 January 1967) 
10. Tales of Brave Ulysses ("Joe Loss Show", 14 July 1967) 
11. Take it Back ("Joe Loss Show", 14 July 1967)

 

3/08/2018

Rock Vinyl Review: The Damnation of Adam Blessing-Self-Titled LP (180 Gram-Remastered From Original Source Tapes)

Release Date: March 30, 2018
Label: EXIT STENCIL RECORDINGS LLC

It was 17 years ago when I was introduced to The Damnation of Adam Blessing and their guitar player Jim Quinn. At that time their albums were reissued on the now defunct Akarma Records label. I remember how much I loved their sound. Little did I know that 17 years later I would be listening to the same music remastered from the original source tapes from the UMG vaults. The Akarma releases were recorded from the albums.

I have been staying in touch with Jim over the years. He came knocking on my door again with the good news. He told me these albums now sounded incredible! I am here to tell you he was speaking the truth.

Their self-titled release came out in 1969. If you sat down and listened to this album today you would never know that it was nearly 50 years ago that this music was recorded. Their sound was a blues-based rock with a definitive psychedelic twist. 

The first side of the platter kicks off with the amazing “Cookbook.” The lead singer Adam Blessing (AKA William Constable) reminded me very strongly of how Burton Cummings sounded of the Guess Who. His vocals were robust with a resonating range that stays with you. Their version of “Morning Dew” was absolutely killer as well. Working from strength to strength, the band was a tight knit unit firing on all cylinders.

The second side kicks open the door with a rocking cover of The Monkees “Last Train To Clarksville.” I really appreciated it (purists be damned!). This particular track shined the light on their versatility. Speaking of that…the curtain closer “Lonely,” is filled with some very cool jazz riffs from Mr. Quinn. They took a step away from their defined sound and ventured into another realm - and the result was superb!

The Damnation of Adam Blessing was an excellent band recording an incredibly entertaining debut. If they arrived today their retro sound would have been welcomed with open arms. They would be superstars. The problem with showing up in 1969 was the competition. The other bands that were making it big back then are now legendary. 

Perhaps now is the time we all took notice of an incredible band that flew underneath the radar on a national scope. This newly remastered version on a fine slice of heavy vinyl will impress, I have no doubts.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
March 7, 2018
Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan's Reviews & News

Tracks:
 
Side A:

1. Cookbook
2. Morning Dew
3. Le' Voyage
4. You Don't Love Me
5. Strings and Things


Side B :
6. Last Train To Clarksville
7. Dreams
8. Hold On
9. Lonely

 

2/16/2018

Rock Review: Scorpions-Born To Touch Your Feelings - Best of Rock Ballads

Release Date: November 24, 2017
Label: Sony Legacy

Klaus Meine, Rudolf Schenker, Matthias Jabs, Pawel Maciwoda, and Mikkey Dee are the Scorpions. It has been four decades since the song "Born To Touch Your Feelings" was released for the first time. If you are into them or were, there is something here to relish. This music will remind you of the good times (I hope).
Born To Touch Your Feelings - Best of Rock Ballads is 17 tracks of pure Scorpions at their rock ballad best. I have always loved to rock out to their tracks like "The Zoo, " "Rock You Like A Hurricane" etc. I have to admit I never think of ballads when discussing these iconic rockers.

It is collections like this that help you to relive those great rocking ballads, done the way only Klaus could sing them and the band could play them. It also makes you realize that the band was not one dimensional. They have always been a solid musical unit with a massive worldwide following. That comes as no surprise and it is a tribute to their staying power and mass appeal.

This is goose bump time people, this music hits you straight in the heart. It will have you smiling, laughing or crying all in one listen. That is how emotional I get when I hear this great music. What makes this release so special besides everything I just mentioned?  The fact that there are new updated versions of tracks, acoustic takes, and completely new tracks, which gives it more oomph than a run of the mill greatest hits release. So needless to say, there is more than enough material to keep your interest from beginning to end.

The leadoff and title track set the bar high and they never lose that focus and maintain that standard on each offering. I have a few favorites like "Still Loving You" and "Wind Of Change," which are the "Comeblack Versions." Those two tracks just put me away. What great music, feelings, and vocals. When “The Smoke Is Going Down” (2015 Remaster) is no slouch either - so spot on and filled with passion. At concerts, it was time to break out the disposable lighter time back in the day and now its cellphones in flashlight mode.

Then there are some tracks I have never heard and absolutely loved. "Send Me An Angel" (New Acoustic Version 2017) is excellent. And the next treat for my ears was closing out the album with two brand-spanking new tracks "Melrose Avenue" and "Always Be With You."

This is a superb package of the old, new and redone (very well) tracks. If you are a Scorpions fan you will love this collection and if you are a rock fan I am sure you will find plenty of appreciation for this collection. The musicianship is outstanding the sound quality will knock your socks off.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
February 14, 2018
Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan’s Reviews

Tracks: 
01. Born To Touch Your Feelings ("MTV Unplugged" Studio Edit)
02. Still Loving You ("Comeblack" Version)
03. Wind Of Change ("Comeblack" Version)
04. Always Somewhere (2015 Remaster)
05. Send Me An Angel (New Acoustic Version 2017)
06. Holiday (2015 Remaster)
07. Eye Of The Storm (Radio Edit)
08. When The Smoke Is Going Down (2015 Remaster)
09. Lonely Nights
10. Gypsy Life
11. House Of Cards (Single Edit)
12. The Best Is Yet To Come
13. When You Came Into My Life ("MTV Unplugged" Studio Edit)
14. Lady Starlight (2015 Remaster)
15. Follow Your Heart (New Full-Band Version 2017)
16. Melrose Avenue (New Song)
17. Always Be With You (New Song)