Archives
Here you will find some of my older music reviews and interviews from the past that were featured in various publications and online.
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Walela, Walela (Triloka Records)
This is one of the most stunning CD debuts in recent memory. Walela is comprised of three very talented vocalists, renowned singer Rita Coolidge, her sister Pricilla Coolidge and Pricilla’s daughter Laura Satterfield. They have had successful performing and recording careers individually and collectively and have sung back-up for Robbie Robertson most notably on his 1994 critically acclaimed CD Robbie Robertson & The Red Road Ensemble—Music for The Native Americans.
Walela has created a remarkable album filled with songs of joy, passion, pain, history and pride. Paying homage to their Native American heritage Walela beautifully captures the spirit of their ancestors and that touches our lives now. Songs like Cherokee River, Wounded Knee, Wash Your Spirit Clean, and Earth Children provide a glorious setting for three perfectly tuned voices that carry the majesty and pride of ancient wisdom. Heartfelt, spiritual and magnificent in its tranquil delivery, this album radiates the loving energy that it was obviously created with. I respond deeply with the spirit of these songs and the power they posses. When Walela sings these poignant songs, including Amazing Grace, you will understand the dignity and strength that permeates this important work. Offer yourself a special gift and buy this album. Images and feeling of memories new and old will flow through you as the emotional content of this album takes hold embracing you in its warm glow and call to sacredness. Highly recommended.
Bareback- Hank Dogs (Hannibal Records)
Hauntingly beautiful, the Hank Dog’s new CD Bareback gently cradles you in its loving, acoustically rich arms and lulls you into a state of blissful comfort despite some of its disquieting imagery. The South London group, which consists of a woman who goes by the name of Piano; her ex-husband Andy; and his daughter (by another woman), Lily comprise this gifted group who possess musical talent and gorgeous voices—pure, heartfelt and achingly poignant. Hank Dogs are as refreshing in sound as they are in attitude. Simple in their execution and complex in their impassioned intent, they asks us to get lost in the magical artistry of such songs as Lucky Break, 18 Dogs, Let Go I’m An Angel and the remarkable Daddy’s Arms. Enchanting at its core and lyrical in its presentation, this exhilarating CD sweetly yet soundly reminded me of the beauty and purpose of simplicity, inspired story-telling and elegant harmonies; and sadly reminded me of the dearth of such projects currently on the “popular” music scene. How grateful I am for Bareback, a recording that more than fills up the abyss left by others. Filled with a feeling of honesty, integrity and truth, this CD will remain in your player for weeks on end, whisking you away on the Bareback ride of your life. Listen for the jaunty hidden track, an unlisted song on track #15. Highly recommended.
Henryk Gorecki-Symphony No. 3
Quite simply one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever written and recorded, Henryk Gorecki’s Symphony No. 3 is a masterful composition created in honor of his wife in the later part of 1976. It sheds a shining sonic light that is as powerful on first listen as it is each subsequent one. Its unique blending of strings build with such quiet intensity that it is almost overwhelming, save the perfectly timed punctuation of the gorgeous voice of soprano, Dawn Upshaw. Rarely has music so moved me as this compelling Symphony. Difficult to describe, it is best experienced first-hand, preferably with rapt attention. A rare listen that delivers on many levels.
Ricky Peterson-Souvenir-(Windham Hill Jazz-www.Windam.com, www.rickypeterson.com)
From the first blast of horns and keys of the opening song Drop Shot you know this CD is going to be tight, lively and in the pocket musically and energetically. Minnesota native Ricky Peterson is a long-standing and rightly deserved favorite among music fans and musicians alike. A member of the great Twin Cities musical dynasty, the Peterson Family, Ricky has been a mainstay on the local and national music scene as a performer, writer and producer working with the likes of Prince, David Sanborn, Bonnie Raitt, George Benson, Ben Sidren, Tuck and Patti, Chaka Kahn as well as familiar family members Paul, Billy and Patty Peterson. Souvenir is his fourth release (his first with Windam Jazz) and it smokes, highlighting the great gift he has for arrangement and showcasing his prestigious talent on keyboards, most notably on the Hammond B-3. Melodic at its core Souvenir offers us sonic snapshots of Peterson’s diverse musical influences that runs the gamut of R&B, funk, progressive rock, jazz and blues. Peterson says, “I like to consider myself a reflection of all the music I listened to when I was young, as well as all I’ve gained from the experience of working with so many great performers.” This is indeed evident not only in the style and integrity of music displayed throughout this impressive CD but also in the care of song selections, many penned by Peterson, including a beautiful rendition of the Todd Rundgren classic, Can We Still Be Friends. Along with songwriting and performance contributions from various family members, Peterson is joined by a formidable array of talent including David Sanborn (Saxophone), Will Lee (Bass), Hiram Bullock (Guitar), Robben Ford (Guitar) and Lalah Hathaway (Vocals), who lend their unique artistry in invigorating fashion. This is a CD that revels in its love for song, melody and the appropriate jam, with standout cuts such as Ignorance Is Bliss, Do That Again and Soft Touch, delivering its promise of groove oriented musical magic. This Souvenir is worth collecting and writing home about. Highly recommended.
Sacred Chants of Shiva by Craig Pruess – www.heaven-on-earth-music.co.uk
Sacred Chants of Shiva is produced, arranged and performed by the brilliant England-based composer and musician Craig Pruess. Pruess is a Grammy nominated record producer who’s sought after work has enhanced numerous musical projects throughout the world. He has written musical arrangements for acts such as Massive Attack, Def Leppard and Bond as well composed the music for internationally popular films such as the recent “Bride & Prejudice” and the global hit “Bend It Like Beckham.
As an artist who has many of his own CDs to his credit, Sacred Chants of Shiva is one of Pruess’ best. It is a rich, spacious and transcendental recording of Sanskrit Chants designed for meditation and silence. This best-selling CD has already become a classic in India, remarkably selling millions of copies in a three year period. Showcasing, Shivoham and Astakams chants by Sri Adi Shankara, Sacred Chants of Shiva also includes a majestic and unhurried rendition of Om Nama Shivaya (An ancient chant, purportedly the primal seed sound attributed as the initiating sound of creation.) Sacred Chants of Shiva is a breathtaking collection of chants that will be a welcomed addition to your meditation practice or quiet time.
Mighty Rearranger by ROBERT PLANT and the Strange Sensation/–www.robertplant.com
Once the mighty voice of rock legends Led Zeppelin, Robert Plant continues to make vital music. From the late 60s thru the beginning of the 21st century, Plant has always been a somewhat elusive, beguiling and mystical figure, who has maintained his unique voice, literally and creatively, to represent his eclectic musical vision. On his new CD Mighty Rearranger, Plant, packs some the sonic muscle of old, along with the Middle Eastern textures that have captivated his attention for so many years. The feeling of otherworldliness that slithers through this recording is a perfect counterpoint to the exuberant raw power that his talented new band the Strange Sensation radiates. Songs such as All the King’s Horses, The Enchanter and the brilliant Shine it All Around are intriguing, lyrically engaging and well produced. Aging gracefully at age 56, Plant is showing the youngling’s of the world how it’s done. Mighty Rearranger is a later day career peak for Plant. On “Shine It All Around,” he sings, “These are the days of my life/ Bright, strong and golden.” It will be exciting to see and hear how much further he can climb. Highly recommended.
In the P.M., by Peter Martin [www.maxjazz.com]
Respected Jazz label Max Jazz has high musical standards that are reflected in its continual release of superior product, showcasing today’s hottest jazz talent. Peter Martin is a gifted musician whose well-developed piano skills are amply displayed on his welcomed second release for MaxJazz, In the P.M. His fellow musicians are a wonder to behold, with Ruben Rogers’ impassioned bass playing supple and pure, and drummer Greg Hutchison’s prestigious talent and authoritative presence is evident throughout, especially on the enticing opening track “Never Let Me Go.” Highlights include creative interpretations of Stevie Wonder’s classic “If It’s Magic,” Cole Porter’s “You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To” (complemented with a stylish guest vocal by Erin Bode), and Peter Martin’s own well-crafted composition “The Answer.” There is a driving force that propels the music of this impressive recording ever forward, and its sonic propulsion is gratefully never ambling or hurried. That force is Peter Martin, and his remarkable CD In the P.M. is perfect anytime.
Soul on Fire by Jenny Bruce [www.goodgirl.com]
Female singer/songwriters abound amidst today’s extensive musical landscape, though sadly many do not deliver on the hype and promised goods. Others, regrettably are not heard above the din of conventional modern pop radio. Jenny Bruce’s brilliant CD, Soul on Fire, represents the best of everything you would desire from an artist. Blessed with a warm, inviting and soulful voice, Bruce’s skillful songwriting feels deeply personal and revelatory. A gifted storyteller, her songs infiltrate your consciousness with truth and integrity. There is a unique beauty coursing through these stunning songs, as especially evidenced with “Anybody Out There,” “Amen” and “Home,” all of which radiate with thoughtful spiritual undercurrents. Sarah MacLachlan, Shawn Colvin and Jonatha Brooke came to mind, but with a bow to her estimable talent, Bruce is a unique voice unto herself, and her recording of Soul on Fire is a musical blessing.
Putumayo presents Acoustic Brazil, Various Artists [www.putumayo.com]
Beginning with the strumming guitar lines and floating vocal of the engaging opening track, “Aguele Frevo Aye” by Gal Costa, Putumayo’s Acoustic Brazil successfully transports you in a swirl of tranquil sounds and welcomed ambience. A true after-party record, relaxed in softer sounds than the powerful South American sambas many of us are familiar with, Acoustic Brazil is more concerned with presenting songs that connect in quieter way. Showcasing emerging young voices of popular Brazilian music as well as legends such as Caetano Veloso, Chico Buarque, Gal Costa and Paulinho da Viola, Acoustic Brazil features songs that urge us to sail away and get lost in their lilting melodies and delightful acoustic instrumentation. Compilation CDs, truth be told, can often be a hit-and-miss affair. With the inviting Acoustic Brazil, compiled beautifully by Jacob Edgar, Putamayo gets this one right. Take the sonic trip, it’s well worth it.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Acoustic Brazil will be donated to AMENCAR, an organization dedicated to the struggle for civil rights of children of Brazil.
Don’t Take Your Time, by Erin Bode [www.erinbode.com | www.maxjazz.com]
On today’s jazz/pop landscape there are currently a few others of like-kind, but higher profile artists, than the talented Erin Bode. Diana Krall and Norah Jones come immediately to mind. Vocalist Erin Bode’s new CD, Don’t Take Your Time, is a pleasure to behold. Filled with well-chosen songs by artists such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Bill Monroe and Cyndi Lauper (a gorgeous version of “Time after Time”), Bode has beautifully captured the spirit of these and other songs, ultimately making them her own. The measure of interpretation of any skilled artist is in their ability to bring something new to the work, impart their talent in a way that is fresh and original. Bode has artfully succeeded in accomplishing that in many ways, in great part with the added support of expressive musicians who compliment her perfectly. Gifted with a clear and supple voice, Bode is a startling fresh new talent who will soon be a higher profile artist herself, opening doors for others.
Sacred Massage, by Soulfood [www.soulfoodmusic.com]
Soulfood, the heralded record label and burgeoning musical force, has crafted beautiful and well-received and bestselling CDs throughout its relatively short, but successful existence. Their newest offering, Sacred Massage, artfully embraces the influences of some the world’s sacred cultures and provides a soothing and blissful musical experience.With talented producer and label co-founder DJ Free at the helm, crafting the stunning ambient sound, Sacred Massage is an enveloping sonic pleasure. Original songs such as “Pearl,” “Dreamscape,” “Enlightenment” and others will perfectly complement any meditative practice or massage experience. Musically designed to whisk you away to a place of comfort and relaxation, Sacred Massage does so successfully and is a welcome addition to any CD collection.
Bliss, by Bliss [www.blissfulmusic.com]
Blessed with Lucinda Drayton’s angelic and pure voice and Andy Blisset’s rich and spaciously ethereal arrangements and production, Bliss is a true musical godsend. Musically rich and textured, Bliss is a stunning recording that opens the heart and heals the soul. Original songs such as “Thank You,” “Breathe On Me,” “Be Who You Were Born to Be” and the timely “War No More” are wonderfully life-affirming in their message and intention of peace, love and hope. Swirling with a beauty rarely captured by many of today’s artists, Bliss is that rare musical group that captures the essence of life’s truth and possibility in song. Powerful in its quiet intensity and stunningly beautiful in its presentation, Bliss is a remarkable recording of love that emanates from their being to yours with style and grace.
