Record Reviews
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  | ASAF AVIDAN / MOJOS ~ THE RECKONING
TELMAVAR 002 (Barcode: 718122809523) ~ ISRAEL ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
The debut album by Israeli singer / songwriter Asaf AvidanFind albums by this artist (born in Jerusalem and aged 28) and his group the MojosFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly the most sensational Rock album ever released in the country. Apparently we had to wait for 60 years to get some real Rock happening here. Israel has produced some superb music over the years, but none of it was “real” Rock. We had plenty of excellent Pop, Art and Alternative Rock, even Progressive Rock, but nothing as gutsy, bluesy, smoky and throaty as this, ever! Imagine a hybrid between the young Robert PlantFind albums by this artist and Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist (if you can) and you get an idea how Asaf’s voice sounds. When I was first told about this album, I naturally thought the enthusiasm is a gross exaggeration. But the minute I heard the first sound uttered from the singer’s throat I understood this is real. His voice is not only unique in Israel, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s universally special. I have not heard anything like this anywhere. Add to this the fact that Asaf sings in English, completely without a trace of any foreign accent, as if he was born somewhere between West Bromwich and Texas. And of course he also wrote all the tunes and lyrics present on this album – all fifteen on them. I have no idea how to explain all this; it’s a bit early for genetic engineering so karma and reincarnation will have to do in the meantime. The fact is that this guy takes us all back 40 years when Rock really rocked. The material - all excellent with great melodies, non-trivial lyrics and intelligent arrangements – can be basically divided between two categories: hard-rocking up tempo tunes a la Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist (first album) and quiet introvert acoustic ballads Janis so wonderfully spilled out of her heart on PearlFind albums with this title. The band (the Mojos) support the singer all the way, with scorching lead guitar solos and rock-solid backing on the up-tempo numbers and delicate (acoustic guitar, cello, etc.) accompaniment behind the ballads. I know all this sounds just too good to be true – well, you won’t know unless you try it, will you? An instant classic!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DEEP PURPLE ~ HARD ROAD: THE MARK 1 STUDIO RECORDINGS 1968-69
PARLOPHONE 825646337415 (Barcode: 825646337415) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1969 Released: 2014
This wonderful Box Set includes the expanded and remastered versions of the first three albums by the seminal British band Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist: "Shades Of Deep PurpleFind albums with this title", "The Book Of TaliesynFind albums with this title" and the eponymous "Deep PurpleFind albums with this title". Recorded between May 1968 and March 1969, i.e. in just ten months (!), these are some of Rock and Prog cornerstones of epic proportions, seldom given their due as far as influencing future generations of Rock and especially Prog musicians in the decades to come. The Mark 1 lineup consisted of vocalist Rod EvansFind albums by this artist, guitarist Ritchie BlackmoreFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jon LordFind albums by this artist, bassist Nick SimperFind albums by this artist and drummer Ian PaiceFind albums by this artist, who all contributed as songwriters, although obviously most of the group´s material was created by Lord and Blackmore. On those three albums the band played mostly their own music, but also arranged, quite dramatically one must admit, songs by other songwriters, like John LennonFind albums by this artist / Paul McCartneyFind albums by this artist (twice), DonovanFind albums by this artist, Joe SouthFind albums by this artist, Billy RobertsFind albums by this artist, Neil DiamondFind albums by this artist and others. All three albums were produced by the legendary British produced Derek LawrenceFind albums by this artist.
This Box Set includes both the original mono and stereo mixes (on separate CDs) of the first two albums and the stereo version of the third album. All five CDs are expanded by a plethora of bonus tracks, which include album outtakes, alternate takes, single edits, etc. all of which are studio recordings. For radio (i.e. live in the studio) recordings of the Deep Purple Mark 1 the fans should look up the excellent double CD album entitled "The BBC Sessions 1968–1970Find albums with this title", which collects all Mark 1 BBC recordings on the first CD.
It is also worth remembering that although the next Deep Purple album would be recorded by the Mark 2 lineup with vocalist Ian GillanFind albums by this artist and bassist Roger GloverFind albums by this artist, musically it belongs very much to what the Mark 1 lineup was doing on the third album, which included elaborate orchestral arrangements. The appropriately titled "Concerto For Group And OrchestraFind albums with this title" album, a pioneering and unprecedented merger of a Rock group with a Symphonic Orchestra, was a direct result of the work initiated on the third album and is a true closure of the Mark 1 chapter. The fifth album however, "In RockFind albums with this title", was a completely new story and came as a reaction to the release of the Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist debut album in early 1969, which also prompted the personnel change from Mark1 to Mark 2. That album embedded Deep Purple´s role as a defining element of the Hard Rock / Heavy Metal genres and Rock music in general.
I often wonder why the role of Deep Purple Mark 1 is almost completely ignored by the Prog snobs. Even under the populist definition of Prog as an amalgam of Rock (electric instruments and rhythmic patterns), Classical (extended melodic and harmonic themes) and Jazz (improvisation), Deep Purple Mark 1 are the essence of Prog, much more so that say early YesFind albums by this artist, GenesisFind albums by this artist and other pretenders to the Big Five. By the same token the roles of other Deep Purple Mark 1 contemporaries, like NiceFind albums by this artist, Moody BluesFind albums by this artist and several others, are similarly completely overlooked, which is a pity to say to say the least. Prog was not just born one day with Robert FrippFind albums by this artist being struck by lightening…
This is an essential piece of history of the formative years of Rock and a beautiful example how great music remains untouched by time and perhaps even gets better in time. I can´t imagine a music library, which does not include these classic recordings, so now is the time to repent and remedy.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL DI MEOLA ~ ELEGANT GYPSY & MORE - LIVE
EAR MUSIC 4029759122494 (Barcode: 4029759122494) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is a live album by American guitar hero Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist, recorded during his 2017 US tour, on which he was supported by a splendid group of musicians, which included keyboardist Phil MagallanesFind albums by this artist, percussionist Gumbi OrtizFind albums by this artist, bassist Elias TonaFind albums by this artist, drummer Luis AliceaFind albums by this artist and violinist Evan GarrFind albums by this artist. Keyboardist Philippe SaisseFind albums by this artist replaces Magallanes on three tracks. The album presents ten tracks, seven of which were composed by Di Meola, one is by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, another one is by Astor PiazzollaFind albums by this artist and finally one is a surprising gesture towards Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist. The recording quality and sound are a bit loud, but appropriate for the energy that prevailed on stage.
As the title suggests, Di Meola revisits three tracks from his 2nd solo album “Elegant GypsyFind albums with this title”, one from the “Kiss My AxeFind albums with this title” album and the rest reflect the entire span of his long career, including his stint with Corea, his fascination with Piazzolla and his early Rock influences. All the compositions have been rearranged and “upgraded” to contemporary sound and speeded up to contemporary steroidal tempi.
All the musicians are of course superb performers and Di Meola lost nothing of his phenomenal abilities and virtuosity, so the album becomes a nice nostalgic trip down memory lane and a showcase of spine-chilling guitar pyrotechnics, which should keep Di Meola’s fans utterly happy.
Overall, this is an excellent live recording of the Jazz-Rock Fusion chapter of Di Meola’s splendid chapter. Personally I much prefer his laid-back, acoustic Jazz-World Fusion recordings, which are absolutely stunning, but of course it is very difficult not to enjoy this facet of his career, which brought him to the world’s attention at the first place.
| | Updated: 11/08/2024Posted: 11/08/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ BBC SESSIONS
ATLANTIC 83061 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Led Zeppelin fans and admirers had to wait for 28 years (till 1997) for these sessions to see the light of day on a formal release. This is a great pity, as Zed Zeppelin’s recorded legacy had very little to offer as far as live performances are concerned. Except for the double LP soundtrack album to their pseudo-documentary movie “The Song Remains The Same” (recorded at the Madison Square Garden in July 1973 and released in 1976), which is considered both by the band and the fans as a rather unfortunate representation of their otherwise superb on-stage performances, no other live recordings were released. The only live Led Zeppelin tracks were available on a myriad of bootleg recordings, often of dubious quality, including various versions of the BBC sessions included here. This exceptional album collects the entire material recorded by Led Zeppelin for the BBC. The first CD includes three sessions recorded in March and June 1969, after the release of their landmark debut album and before the release of the second album. The second CD includes an entire concert performance from April 1971, before the release of their fourth album. Although the BBC sessions are not really “live” recordings as such, these performances provide an excellent record of what Led Zeppelin did on stage, as opposed to their perfectionist studio work. It is obvious that live Led Zeppelin were first and foremost an improvisational band (much like Cream before them), and therefore every performance of a song varied considerably from other interpretations of the same song, be it in tempo, length, order of solos and so on (listen to three different takes of “Communication Breakdown” present here). This is also a great document of the creative process the band went through when preparing material for their albums – the first sessions include early versions of songs later released on the second album and the last session does the same with songs later released on the fourth album. In addition, these sessions contain several songs not included on any of the studio albums. The performances are of course stellar, from the very first note played to the very last and both the musical and historic importance of these sessions is beyond dispute. The usual BBC “mark of quality” sound is crystal clear and allows the listener to enjoy this heavenly music even at dangerously high volume (recommended). I can’t imagine anybody, who considers himself a music lover, not to own this album?
Interested in general information about BBC sessions? See my Blog ;)
| | | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ CELEBRATION DAY (DELUXE EDITION)
ATLANTIC 081227968823 (Barcode: 081227968823) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2012
On December 10, 2007 Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, the greatest Rock band of all times, reunited for a one-time performance at the 02 Arena in London, with original members Robert PlantFind albums by this artist (vocals), Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist (guitar) and John Paul JonesFind albums by this artist (bass and keyboards) and with their original drummer John BonhamFind albums by this artist (who died in 1980) replaced by his son Jason BonhamFind albums by this artist. At the time of the concert they were 59, 63, 61 and 41 years old respectively. 20 million people entered the on-line lottery to win the opportunity to buy tickets for this concert, with black market prices eventually reaching astronomical sums. The concert lasted for just over two hours (without any breaks) with the band performing 16 songs (including two encores).
Exactly five years later the sound and video recordings of this concert were finally released on CD and DVD, with this edition comprising of two CDs and two DVDs. The second DVD is a one-camera shot of the band´s rehearsal, which took place on December 6, 2007, and contains the same sequence and content as the actual concert recording. The concert was officially called the "Ahmet ErtegunFind albums by this artist Tribute Concert", dedicated to the memory of the legendary president of AtlanticFind albums by this artist Records, Led Zeppelin´s record label, who died a year earlier (December 14, 2006), but of course the Led Zeppelin concert was above all a tribute to Led Zeppelin.
Time, as people my age get to experience, is ruthless and for Rock musicians that reality is even crueler than for most other performers, simply for the reason that Rock is after all so much about energy and physical effort. Therefore many Rock dinosaurs cross the line of no return becoming a caricature of their earlier selves without realizing it. It happens to the best. It did not happen this time to Led Zeppelin, but it was damn close…
Of course they can still sing and play; but even a less trained ear can easily hear the limitations of Plant´s voice, who stays safely in the mid range and does not dear scream and whine as he used to do so magnificently, the lack of fluidity and exploration in Page´s solos, and so on. Jones is as solid as he always was and looks much younger than his mates, easily winning the title of the best preserved Zep around. Bonham, two decades younger than his cohorts is the true backbone of this entire show, imaginative, precise and as powerful as his late father; a living proof or reincarnation… (Or genetics?)
The sound quality of the recording is a bit mushy and the video, although well done technically, lacks imagination and eventually becomes a bit boring. The rehearsal DVD is a complete waste of time visually but the sound and some of the performances are actually better that those during the concert.
So what do we have here? Two hours of Led Zeppelin playing the music they played in the good old days and metaphorically performing a sermon in memoriam. Is it worth hearing? Of course it is; people who grew up with Led Zeppelin´s music in their veins will love every second of it, but please, PLEASE, don´t do it again! Let´s not ruin the memory…
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Thanks for the painfully honest review!
| | | 2CD+2DVD 4 Digipak Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ DVD
WARNER MUSIC VISION 70198 (Barcode: 603497019823) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1979 Released: 2003
Considering the fact that this is the only available filmed document of the illustrious career by Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, the greatest rock band in history (other than their pseudo-documentary film The Song Remains The SameFind albums with this title), it immediately achieves a legendary status of the Holy Grail proportions. This double DVD set was compiled by Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist in 2003 and released as a companion to the 3 CD live set How The West Was WonFind albums with this title. Why did the fans of the band had to wait for so long for this magnificent music remains a mystery (probably having a lot to do with corporate music business bullshit), but better late than never seems to be appropriate here. Much better (than never) in fact, as this marvelous set presents over five hours of never previously seen archival material spanning the entire 11 years of the band’s existence: 1969-1979. The main feature of the first DVD is the legendary 1970 Royal Albert Hall concert, which features the band at the peak of their first musical phase (spanning the last days of Page with the YardbirdsFind albums by this artist, the formative days of Led Zeppelin and up to the release of their second album). Page demonstrates the absolute command of guitar and the revolutionary use of the bow to squeeze outlandish sound effects from the instrument. Robert PlantFind albums by this artist takes the vocal parts way beyond anything previously attempted and his jazz like staccato exchanges with Page are breathtaking. John BonhamFind albums by this artist provides a metronome and yet innovative rock solid rhythms and John Paul JonesFind albums by this artist uses the bass and organ to fill in the spaces, ornament and put the cheery on the cake. In short if I had to explain to a Martian what rock is all about I’d need little more that a copy of this DVD to go by. The second DVD features live performances from the 1970’s: 1973 Madison Square Garden, 1976 Earl’s Court and 1979 triumphant UK tour, which was sadly the last time the band played together before Bonham’s death the following year – each and every one a magnificent piece of musical history. In addition a collection of shorter clips, amateur footage and TV performances are also included. This stuff is truly bigger that life and the nonchalant title seems most appropriate in this case – probably the best way there is for anyone to spend his money on music.
| | | DVD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ HOW THE WEST WAS WON
ATLANTIC 83587 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Led Zeppelin released only 9 studio albums (one of them double) through their entire career, now collected in the magnificent Box Set called “The Complete Studio Recordings” – a mother of all Box Sets! Although there are hundreds of Led Zeppelin live bootlegs circulating on the market, there is scarcely little officially released live material. The BBC sessions album is one of them, but that is hardly a real “live” album, and of course the soundtrack to their pseudo-documentary movie "The Song Remains The Same", which was not really intended as a stand-alone live album. Therefore when Jimmy Page decided (in 2003) to release these two concerts, recorded in June of 1972 during their US tour, nothing could make me happier as a great admirer of Led Zeppelin’s artistry. Anybody listening to these recordings should be easily convinced that they were undoubtedly the greatest rock band of all times. Period. The 3 hours long set gives the listener everything there is to give. Superb performances, heartbreaking lyricism, divine sophistication and musical virtuosity – very lofty words, I know, but 100 % solid truth. They were just eight miles higher than anything else on earth at that time or after. Page is a giant and a genius, so inventive that it is truly scary. His treatment of the instrument and his ability to improvise are stellar. A 25+ minutes of “Dazed And Confused” and 23+ minutes of “While Lotta Love” are typical examples of what they sounded like at their best and how they could turn any of their songs around any way they wanted. I could really brag about this for hours, buy talking about music is like making love over the telephone, so just get this damn album and listen, and listen again. A little brain damage never hurt anybody! ;)
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ THE COMPLETE BBC SESSIONS
WARNER BROS. 081227943899 (Barcode: 081227943899) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1971 Released: 2016
This is an expanded reissue of the 1997 first edition of the music recorded by Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, the greatest Rock group of all times, for the BBC, entitled simply "The BBC SessionsFind albums with this title". This new edition adds a third CD to the original double CD release, which includes nine tracks, eight of which are previously unreleased. The package also includes new expanded liner notes, which include the original brief essay and a detailed list of all the six sessions the group recorded for the BBC and an index of songs, many of which appear several times on these three CDs.
There is not much new one can say about this music. Five of the six sessions were recorded in 1969 (between March and June), following the release of their debut album and before the release of the second album, spanning just three months of the life of the group, which in most cases would have meant very little, but in the case of Led Zeppelin showed an almost daily progression of the band, which developed their style from Blues-Rock to a sophisticated, soaked in improvisation, full fledged Rock virtuosity. The last session recorded in April 1971, following the release of their fourth album, finds them completely transformed into the greatest Rock band ever, in the span of just two years.
The newly added tracks are all worth they weight in gold as everything ever recorded by Led Zeppelin and the hordes of the band´s fans will embrace them wholeheartedly, however this release raises a set of questions, which someone should answer and be held responsible for:
Why didn´t the original release include all this material? Why do we have to pay again for the two CDs we already have to get the third one with the new material? Why wasn´t the new release put together to present the six sessions in chronological order? Why the graphic designers forgot to put the track list on the packaging and it only appears on a sticker? Why did they also forget the barcode? And why oh why do they keep doing it again and again and again…?
In short Warner Music Group, like all the Majors, simply doesn´t give a damn about the fans or anybody else for that matter, as long as the money keeps streaming in. Pathetic!
| | Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 16/10/2016 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ THE SONG REMAINS THE SAME (SPECIAL EDITION)
WARNER BROS. 72654 (Barcode: 7291005726542) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007
There would have be nothing easier for Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist than to release the film that documents their 1973 Madison Square Garden performance as a straight-forward documentary, the same way as other concert / festival footage was released. The band decided to take this a step further and augmented the concert footage with fantasy sequences, behind-the-stage scenes and at-home glimpses of all four heroes, creating what might be considered as one of the first major scale video-clips. Regardless of the fact if this additional material is great cinematography (a debate that belongs elsewhere), the overall effect works very well and most importantly depicts the era where Rock musicians were almighty Superheroes. But of course the film also includes a brilliant performance and some of the best Rock music ever recorded. Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist, Robert PlantFind albums by this artist, John Paul JonesFind albums by this artist and John BonhamFind albums by this artist playing together were a Force of Nature, way beyond any other Rock band that walked the earth at the time. Phenomenal instrumental skills, telepathic interplay, dramatic vocals and a wall of sound effect of immense intensity were but a few of their virtues. The film captures all of that and more in superb visual and audio quality and the miracle is preserved for eternity. The new (2007) edition adds a whole extra DVD, which includes lots of never previously seen material, but most importantly some of the original concert footage that was edited out from the film edition. Absolutely Essential! Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound and DTS, 137 minutes.
| | | DVD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMMY PAGE ~ OUTRIDER
GEFFEN 720642418826 (Barcode: 720642418826) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1988 Released: 1988
This is the debut solo album by guitar legend Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist, which raises the question: is there life after Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist? In case of Page a retrospective view at his post-Zep career, including the Zep reunion, would have to be, unfortunately, negative. The album presents nine tracks, eight of which are original compositions by Page and one is a Leon RussellFind albums by this artist song. Page is supported by vocalists John MilesFind albums by this artist, Robert PlantFind albums by this artist (on one track only) and Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist (with his name misspelled repeatedly in the album´s booklet), bassists Tony FranklinFind albums by this artist, Durban LavedreFind albums by this artist and Felix KrishFind albums by this artist and drummers Jason BonhamFind albums by this artist and Barriemore BarlowFind albums by this artist (with his name also misspelled – ridiculous and disrespectful!). Three of the tracks are instrumentals and six feature vocals.
The music is a much expected mixture of typical Zep Rock and Blues signatures, all quite ordinary and not especially impressive. There is little solo work by any of the participants, most surprisingly by Plant himself, so any fan looking forward to extensive guitar madness will be deeply disappointed. The only point of relative satisfaction can be found in Farlowe´s vocals, which unfortunately is more than often hated by Rock fans, for reasons that are completely beyond me, as he is in my opinion one of Britain´s most exceptional vocalists, with a superb feel for the Blues.
The album made little impact at the time of its release and is today mostly forgotten, which in this case is mostly justified. Of course it has some moments, which are worth spinning the disc occasionally, but no more than that.
The fact that Page did not evolve with time and found a proper stage for his extraordinary talents is a true tragedy of sorts, especially in view of the impact his playing made on whole generations of guitar players the world over.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMMY PAGE & THE BLACK CROWES ~ LIVE AT THE GREEK (25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION)
SILVER ARROW 198846877563 (Barcode: 198846877563) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2025
This is the 25th Anniversary Edition of the live album by British guitarist Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist and the American group The Black CrowesFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1999 at the LA Greek Theatre and originally released in 2000. This 3CD remastered reissue expands the original release by sixteen previously unreleased (for contractual reasons) tracks, presenting the entire concert and the soundcheck, totaling in thirty-six tracks. The material includes a mixture of Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist material, original material by the Black Crowes and classic Blues standards.
The Black Crowes lineup includes brothers Chris RobinsonFind albums by this artist on vocals and Rich RobinsonFind albums by this artist on guitar and vocals, and also bassist Sven PipienFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Eddie HarschFind albums by this artist, drummer Steve GormanFind albums by this artist and lead guitarist Audley FreedFind albums by this artist. Bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist is overdubbed on two tracks.
The sound and feel of the music offers a remarkable resemblance to what Led Zeppelin sounded like on stage, which is hardly surprising. The lead vocals might not be as spectacular as those by Robert PlantFind albums by this artist, but are definitely quite fitting, and the entire concert is a brilliant tribute to Led Zeppelin in every respect. The original material by the Black Crowes is not bad either.
Overall, the album is a great fun to listen to and for Hard Rock / Led Zeppelin fans is an absolute must. The additional material is definitely worth having and despite the fact that the music was recorded at the very end of the 20th Century, it is Classic Rock stuff every inch of the way. Obviously Page is as perfect as always, which goes without saying. I had a blast!
| | Updated: 15/06/2025Posted: 15/06/2025 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT PLANT ~ LULLABY AND… THE CEASELESS ROAR
NONESUCH 075597954210 (Barcode: 075597954210) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014
This is the tenth solo album by British singer / songwriter Robert PlantFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the frontman of the iconic Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist. It is also the first studio album with his new (at the time) band called Sensational Space ShiftersFind albums by this artist, which included guitarists Liam TysonFind albums by this artist and Justin AdamsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist John BaggottFind albums by this artist, bassist Billy FullerFind albums by this artist, drummer Dave SmithFind albums by this artist and West African musician Juldeh CamaraFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven original songs, all co-credited to Plant and the band members.
Plant’s post Zeppelin solo career was undoubtedly a most impressive path of musical activity and constant development, which took him on a wonderful adventure of amalgamating Rock and World Music, perhaps more significant than any other Classic Rock Artist undertook in the last four decades, following the death of the genre. Plant bravely incorporated a wide kaleidoscope of influences, ranging from Celtic, via Middle East, African and Far East sources. He also bravely kept updating the Rock vocabulary, using sound shaping equipment but at the same time eschewing the dreaded synthesized electronic doodling.
Like all of his earlier albums, this one is a fabulous display of his many talents, both as a vocalist (with his vocal delivery every bit as strong as ever), songwriter and Artist. The music is diverse and often surprising, beautifully performed and full of inherent drama and tension, which makes listening to this album a beautifully aesthetic experience.
Overall this is a superb piece of music, which hopefully will be listened to by audiences beyond the ageing Les Zeppelin fans, who could learn a thing or two about the expanding horizons of Rock music. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 30/07/2021Posted: 30/07/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | PLOT ~ TIGHTROPE
WHYPLAYJAZZ 023 (Barcode: 4050486940235) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015
This is the second album by the German trio PlotFind albums by this artist, which consists of saxophonist Sebastian WehleFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert LucaciuFind albums by this artist and drummer Philipp ScholzFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine classis Pop / Rock songs, adapted for a Jazz trio, which include five songs by the BeatlesFind albums by this artist, two by Creedence Clearwater RevivalFind albums by this artist and one each by Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist and SantanaFind albums by this artist.
The concept is both very familiar and very innovative. Pop / Rock songs have been the subject of Jazzed up interpretations for ages and most Jazz standards originate from Pop songs one way or another. However this trio takes the idea into a new dimension, creating a unique universe, which mixes Punkish nonchalance with highly aesthetic sensibility. The result is a surprising and vibrant musical experience, which catches even experienced listeners completely off guard.
All three members of the trio perform exceedingly well, with Wehle carrying the melody and improvising, Lucaciu supplying the riffs that are the spine of Pop / Rock songs and Scholz taking care of the rhythmic layer. The arrangements are based on minimalism and expression and as a result are able to create a completely nontrivial new interpretation of the familiar material.
There is really no need to say much more about this album except that it is one of the most interesting pieces of music I happened to come across in a long time and an absolute must hear to all true Jazz connoisseurs, especially those who also have an affinity to Pop / Rock music. It also is an example of originality and good taste that should be taught in music schools that today produce mostly clones of a rigid conception conceived ages ago. Additionally the album has a superb sound quality, which adds another reason why it deserves to be a part of every respectable music collection.
Roland SchulzFind albums by this artist, the owner and guru of the WhyPlayJazzFind albums on this label label deserves special merit for releasing this album, as most label owners would have probably considered it as a freak show failing to see how wonderful this experience truly is. Hats off!
| | Updated: 12/06/2016Posted: 12/06/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | TERRY REID ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES
RHINO 825646163960 (Barcode: 825646163960) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1991 Released: 2015
This Box Set collects five of the six albums by the British vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Terry ReidFind albums by this artist released between 1968 and 1991. They are: his debut album "Bang, Bang You`re Terry ReidFind albums with this title" from 1968, this eponymous second album "Terry ReidFind albums with this title" from 1969 (both produced by Mickie MostFind albums by this artist), the third album "RiverFind albums with this title" from 1973, the fifth album "Rogue WavesFind albums with this title" from 1978 and finally the sixth album "DriverFind albums with this title" from 1991. The fourth album "Seed Of MemoryFind albums with this title" from 1976 was sadly left out simply since there is no place for six albums in a five albums box; how stupid is that?
Reid is sadly almost completely unknown to Rock fans, probably due to the fact that he refused several times offers that can´t be refused, like fronting Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist (he recommended Robert PlantFind albums by this artist for the job) or fronting Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist as their lead singer. His solo albums never achieved commercial success, despite the fact that they were all excellent, which is a great pity.
Reid´s completely original timbre of voice is one of the most unique in Rock history and his sensitivity and intelligence as a musicians were truly above most of his contemporaries. Reid incorporated in his music Blues and Soul influences, creating a long string of memorable performances over the years. He also cooperated with many first-rate musicians over time, like Graham NashFind albums by this artist, with whom he co-wrote songs and who produced his fourth album.
When listening to these albums in retrospect it becomes obvious that success is blind as a bat, and in countless cases it prefers worthless twits to hidden geniuses. At least this music is now available again for future generations and hopefully it will be discovered by some and even properly appreciated. This is, after all, a great chapter in Rock´s history.
Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TERRY REID ~ SEED OF MEMORY
EDSEL 425 (Barcode: 740155142520) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 1995
This is the 4th album by the extraordinary British singer Terry ReidFind albums by this artist, who is one of the most enigmatic and underrated artists of the era. His refusal to join Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist as the band´s lead singer and later on again the refusal to replace Ian GillanFind albums by this artist in Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist are some of Rock´s most bizarre and legendary stories, both true of course. His unique voice, theatrical delivery and great sensibility were underappreciated and his recorded legacy is mostly completely unknown to most music fans, which is quite sad. This album features Reid´s own material and was recorded in the US with some incredible musicians supporting his. It was produced by Graham NashFind albums by this artist, who also sings vocal harmonies with Reid. In retrospect this is a little known gem, which deserves to be listened to. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPOOKY TOOTH ~ IT`S ALL ABOUT
REPERTOIRE 1074 (Barcode: 4009910107423) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2005
1st album by superb British Rock band Spooky ToothFind albums by this artist, which comprised of four British musicians: vocalist / pianist Mike HarrisonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Luther GrosvenorFind albums by this artist, bassist Greg RidleyFind albums by this artist and drummer Mike KellieFind albums by this artist and American vocalist / organist Gary WrightFind albums by this artist, who lived in UK at the time. Together they possessed an incredible amount of talent, which turned then instantly into one of the best Rock acts on the British Isles at the end of the 1960s. Their material, mostly written by Wright, was a mixture of Rock, Blues and proto-Prog with Psychedelic influences, performed with a dense heavy sound dominated by Wright´s organ, somewhere between Procol HarumFind albums by this artist and Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist. Grosvenor played some fantastic guitar licks and the rhythm section was second to none with Ridley´s heavy but virtuosic pulsations and Kellie´s spectacular pyrotechnics. Together with Harrison´s incredible vocal abilities, which combined the forces of everything from Robert PlantFind albums by this artist, via Rod StewartFind albums by this artist to Roger ChapmanFind albums by this artist, the band had the ability to outshine any if its contemporaries, and they certainly did a fantastic job on their debut album, which is an incredible blast of energy and ingenuity, turning it into an instant classic. Although slightly patchy stylistically, since the band was still searching for its own unique approach, the variety of styles works well here and adds to the album´s appeal. This is definitely one of the strongest debut albums of Classic Rock and a diamond in any serious record collection. Essential listening experience!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TRAJZEGA ~ DEFICYTY MILOSCI
GAD ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 2024 Released: 2024
This is the debut album by Polish Trash Metal band TrajzegaFind albums by this artist, which comprises of bassist Marcin AdamczewskiFind albums by this artist, vocalist / drummer Pawel BogaczewiczFind albums by this artist, guitarists Rafal KszczotFind albums by this artist and Bartlomiej ZerekFind albums by this artist and drummer Radoslaw MencfelFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, all co-composed by the band members with lyrics by Zerek. The music lasts for just under half an hour, so actually this is rather an EP than a full album.
I admit that by the time the so called innocent “Heavy Metal” of the late 1960s and early 1970s, i.e. Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, Black SabbathFind albums by this artist and Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist, transformed by the late 1980s into Trash Metal (i.e. MetallicaFind albums by this artist, MegadethFind albums by this artist and worse), I completely lost touch with Rock, lamenting its tragic demise. Therefore, I am probably the least competent person on this planet to write about this music. However, since the album landed on my desk due to some convoluted circumstances, I decided to give it a spin, and then another one and ended up quite liking it, against all odds.
Yes, the music is LOUD and rowdy, but when played at a very low volume (in proportion to the expected volume) I discovered a lot of things I can identify with. This music does have coherent melody, albeit well-hidden beneath the dense guitar riffs and the condensed rhythm ruckus. The most surprising element, however, are the lyrics, which actually make a lot of sense and express the anger and frustration, which basically are shared by every generation, going through a certain age bracket. These guys are ANGRY, as I was, when I was their age – actually to think about it I am still angry at the world around me, so why shouldn’t they be. And these guys certainly can play, sing and weave a song like pros and I certainly agree with their basic assumption about the fact that there is never enough love around.
Overall, this is a rather surprising and promising debut outing by this band. I hope they will explore somewhat less aggressive musical paths in their future ebdeavors, simply because I believe they are definitely able to do so, and a more relaxed output will probably do them good. But hey, whatever they decide to do next I will be very happy to listen to.
| | Updated: 29/06/2024Posted: 29/06/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | YARDBIRDS ~ BIRDLAND
FAVORED NATIONS 2280 (Barcode: 690897228023) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
Forty years after The YardbirdsFind albums by this artist ruled the British Rhythm And Blues scene for a while and than splintered into several seminal Rock and Prog bands like Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, Jeff Beck GroupFind albums by this artist and RenaissanceFind albums by this artist, to mention just a few, here they are again alive and kicking. The original founding members Jim McCartyFind albums by this artist and Chris DrejaFind albums by this artist drafted three younger musicians: guitarist Gypie MayoFind albums by this artist, vocalist and bassist John IdanFind albums by this artist and harmonica player Alan GlenFind albums by this artist and reunited the Yardbirds to record this album, which includes several re-makes of classic Yardbirds material and a nice batch of new songs written by the band members. I´m usually skeptical about reunions, being right most of the time, this album however works amazingly well, as if time stood still (which is a good thing) for all these years and The Yardbirds never disbanded at all. Mayo plays some amazing guitar licks and easily joins the Yardbirds lead guitarists list (Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist & Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist), the songs smoke from start to finish and the entire album simply kicks ass. Some spectacular guest guitar players add solos as well: Jeff Beck, Steve VaiFind albums by this artist, Joe SatrianiFind albums by this artist, Brian MayFind albums by this artist and others. Definitely no regrets here – a must!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | YARDBIRDS ~ THE ULTIMATE LIVE AT THE BBC
REPERTOIRE 1464 (Barcode: 4009910146422) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1965 - 1968 Released: 2024
This is a 4CD Box Set, which collects all known live BBC recordings by the seminal British Rock group The YardbirdsFind albums by this artist, recorded between March 1965 and March 1968, presenting ninety tracks, twenty-eight of which are previously unreleased. As usual with BBC recordings, the sound quality (in most cases) is absolutely stunning, considering the equipment that existed at the time.
For some strange reason The Yardbirds seem to be almost completely forgotten these days, but considering the fact that during the first period of their existence between 1963 and 1968 they had among their ranks the three top British lead guitar players of all time: Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist and Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist and they were de facto the origin of Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist. The lineup, which recorded the music on this Box Set, includes vocalist Keith RelfFind albums by this artist, drummer Jim McCartyFind albums by this artist, rhythm guitarist Chris DrejaFind albums by this artist, bassist Paul Samwell-SmithFind albums by this artist and Beck or Page on lead guitar. When Samwell-Smith quit in 1966, Dreja became the bassist and the group continued as a quartet. Clapton is not playing on any of the BBC recordings, despite the fact that some other releases claim the contrary.
Listening to the chronologically organized material is like watching a documentary, which explicitly explains how British Rock developed from the humble roots of copying American Blues and Rhythm And Blues, into a full-fledged British Rock, with exquisite new original material and way of expression, which influenced everything that happened in the years to come. The last track in this collection is no other than “Dazed And Confused”, which of course explains how things proceeded from where the first incarnation of The Yardbirds disbanded.
Overall, this is a brilliant piece of musical document, which deserves to be heard by every serious music lover, in order to comprehend how Rock music developed in UK. Although a large portion of these tracks were previously released already, it’s a neat way to have a complete collection in one Box Set. The package includes a booklet with historical notes, which sadly I find lacking the proper historical perspective, but they do offer a lot of details, which I find less interesting. It is a collector’s treasure trove by all means!
| | Updated: 23/08/2024Posted: 23/08/2024 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANK ZAPPA ~ THE BEST BAND YOU NEVER HEARD IN YOUR LIFE
ZAPPA 3881 (Barcode: 824302388129) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2012
This is a reissue / remaster of the 55th album by iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader / visionary Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, originally released in 1991. The 2CD album presents twenty-eight tracks, which include mostly original songs by Zappa, but also several covers of classic Rock songs, including “Stairway To Heaven” (Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist), “Purple Haze” (Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist), “Sunshine of Your Life” (CreamFind albums by this artist) and others, which is relatively a rare event on Zappa’s albums. The music was recorded live during Zappa’s 1988 tour, which was sadly his last. It is one of three live albums recorded during this tour, together with “Broadway The Hard WayFind albums with this title” and “Make A Jazz Noise HereFind albums with this title”.
The lineup that recorded the music includes Zappa on guitar and vocals, guitarists Ike WillisFind albums by this artist and Mike KeneallyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Robert MartinFind albums by this artist, percussionist Ed MannFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Walt FowlerFind albums by this artist, trombonist Bruce FowlerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Paul CarmanFind albums by this artist, Albert WingFind albums by this artist and Kurt McGettrickFind albums by this artist, bassist Scott ThunesFind albums by this artist and drummer Chad WackermanFind albums by this artist. It reflects Zappa’s love of orchestral arrangements, which of course were meticulously conceived and brilliantly executed by this excellent team. The undertones of a Broadway show, which this album presents, are a pinnacle of Zappa’s mastery and a cruel twist.
With passing time, Zappa’s cynicism and radical criticism of American politics, organized religion, show business and general stupidity became more bitter and plain painful at times. His idea to shake his audiences, had sadly little effect, as we can see with the world getting worse and stupider consistently. The absurdity of the beautiful melodic songs crafted by Zappa, which were accompanied by his toxic lyrics is absolutely amazing. However, as we all know, protest songs never managed to make a dent in the way our world is being conducted, especially so in America – Woody GuthrieFind albums by this artist, Pete SeegerFind albums by this artist, Bob DylanFind albums by this artist and eventually Zappa, all failed miserably – a magnificent failure it was indeed!
Overall, although thirty-three years passed since this music was recorded, this album remains an absolute Classic in every respect, which stands proudly as an icon of superb music, which still shines brighter than almost anything else recorded since. Zappa’s genius, not only as a musician, but also as a visionary and a brilliant observer of the human condition and American folly and deceit, remain completely relevant and are even more actual today than ever.
Side Note
Frank Zappa created a vast recorded legacy during his lifetime, which is continuously being expanded using music recorded and stored in his extensive vault. The albums officially released and approved by Zappa are numbered sequentially in the "Official Release" series, from #001 to the last release so far #126. The albums between #001 to #062 were released during Zappa's lifetime and all the others were released posthumously. There are countless unofficial / bootleg releases on the market as well.
Zappa's catalogue was remastered for CD release twice: in 1995 for the RykodiscFind albums on this label releases and again in 2012 for the ZappaFind albums on this label Records / UniversalFind albums on this label releases. The Zappa / Universal program includes 60 releases, which cover the entire catalog released during his lifetime (62 releases, except #013 "200 Motels" and the three Box Sets #043, #046 and #049 called "The Old Masters vol.I / II / III"), and 6 posthumous releases (#064, #065, #067, #068, #093 and #094), which were also included.
| | Updated: 22/09/2022Posted: 10/12/2021 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANK ZAPPA ~ ZAPPA `88: THE LAST U.S. SHOW
ZAPPA 20036 (Barcode: 602435688244) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by the iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, which presents his last concerts ever in the US, which were followed by his last concert tour in Europe. Until his untimely death in 1993, Zappa never toured again, although he continued to create music until the last moment. The 2CD album presents thirty-one tracks.
The music was recorded by a twelve-piece band, which included a five-piece brass section, three guitarists, vibraphone, keyboards, bass and drums. The material includes mostly original material by Zappa, but also interpretations of songs by The BeatlesFind albums by this artist / Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist / Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, as well as classical compositions.
This last band Zappa put together for his tour was also probably his best band ever, as far as musical range, technical proficiency and ensemble performances were concerned, although over the years all Zappa’s groups were brilliant one way of another.
In retrospect, Zappa’s unparalleled genius is omnipresent in these recordings, far beyond the brilliant music, superb guitar playing and his humoristic / sarcastic / critical delivery. His concerts always included an aspect of stand-up comedy / burlesque / circus madness, with every split second precisely planned and meticulously executed.
There is no need to restate the fact that Frank Zappa was the most important Rock musician of all times, with a brilliant multi-layered intellect and blessed with unprecedented talent and vision. Every little moment of his recorded legacy remains an essential part of the Human Culture Hall of Fame, even in not recognized as such by the gray masses.
The contest of these two CDs is so dense, that it required numerous listening sessions to get down to the bottom of it, listening carefully to each and every detail herein. Obviously the music is completely beyond being described by words, and every person on earth might interpret it differently. If anybody reading this was not exposed to Zappa’s music so far, make sure you try it before you die – if you don’t you won’t really know what music is…
Although Zappa was obviously an alien, as his music proves, he was tragically trapped in a frail human body, which eventually failed him. What a fucked-up Universe we live in.
| | Updated: 10/07/2021Posted: 10/07/2021 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
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