Record Reviews
22 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | AMAZING BLONDEL ~ ENGLAND / BLONDEL
BGO 0914 (Barcode: 5017261209146) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2010
4th and 5th albums by British band Amazing BlondelFind albums by this artist, which were quite an unusual "bird" among the flourishing UK Folk-Rock flock in the late 1960s / early 1970s. Although many British bands often relied on traditional folk material and even went back several centuries in search for inspiration (PentangleFind albums by this artist, Fairport ConventionFind albums by this artist, GryphonFind albums by this artist and even Jethro TullFind albums by this artist), none of them dedicated their entire musical scope to English Early Music, Elizabethan song and minstrelsy, which is exactly what Amazing Blondel did. Formed by Terry WincottFind albums by this artist and John GladwinFind albums by this artist, the band was soon after expanded to a trio with the addition of Eddie BairdFind albums by this artist. The duo managed to record the debut album "The Amazing Blondel And A Few FacesFind albums with this title" for the obscure BellFind albums on this label label and after expanding to a trio they joined the roster of IslandFind albums on this label Records, recording a series of albums for that label, of which the two albums included here were the last. The very fact that a major record label would sign such an unusual fact is a reflection of the times and the character of the legendary Island owner Chris BlackwellFind albums by this artist, who collected on his label a staggering crew of music makers, promoting music on the basis of its merit rather than on its commercial potential – happy and sadly long time gone reality. These two albums are some of the most memorable and unusual musical documents of that era of Artistic freedom. "EnglandFind albums with this title" features music, almost entirely written by Gladwin, who also sings the lead vocals, is completely acoustic and played on instruments, which were used centuries ago and based entirely on the English Early Music format. The lyrics are also kept in the general spirit of the era, spiced with humorous tongue in cheek tidbits. "BlondelFind albums with this title", recorded following Gladwin´s departure from the group, is slightly more Rocky and features Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist on bass guitar and Simon KirkeFind albums by this artist (FreeFind albums by this artist) on drums as well as many other guest artists including Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist, who sings on one track. In retrospect these two albums remain an ageless masterpiece, unrivaled to this very day and I can hardly imagine any Folk-Rock enthusiast´s record collection, which does not include them. For people who never came across this band before, this reissue is a splendid opportunity to fill a gap, which is unforgettable. Grab it!
| | Updated: 28/02/2024Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BAD COMPANY ~ BAD COMPANY (DELUXE EDITION)
RHINO 081227955540 (Barcode: 081227955540) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the debut eponymous album by the seminal British Blues-Rock / Rock supergroup Bad CompanyFind albums by this artist. Formed in 1973 by two former members of the legendary FreeFind albums by this artist, vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist and drummer Simon KirkeFind albums by this artist, who were joined by ex-Mott The HoopleFind albums by this artist guitarist Mick RalphsFind albums by this artist and ex-King CrimsonFind albums by this artist bassist Boz BurrellFind albums by this artist. The original lineup of the band managed to last for a whole decade, during which they recorded six studio albums. The original album included eight original songs, three by Ralphs, two by Rodgers, two by Rodgers and Ralphs and one by Rodgers and Kirke. This remastered edition adds a second CD full of bonus material (13 tracks), nine of which are previously unreleased, which include outtakes, alternate versions and B-sides, including studio chatter as well as intelligent and interesting booklet full of relevant information.
Bad Company were beyond a shadow of a doubt one of the all time best British Rock bands, which embodied the process of the development of the British Rock music, which has taken place during the 1960s and included the Blues Revival, the birth of Blues-Rock and Hard-Rock. The band was less Blues oriented than its ancestor bands, especially Free of course, but the basic Blues structures were still very much in place, especially so on the first two albums by the band.
Rodgers, who is the best white Blues vocalist that ever walked the face of the earth, sings Blues regardless of the specific environment he´s in at any specific moment. Whenever he opens his mouth, the Blues pours out, regardless if he means it or not, and this is of course his most important asset paired with his Godly voice. Bad Company allowed him to explore his talents as a singer and songwriter in a more comfortable environment than the turmoil surrounding Free during its troubled existence.
The combined forces of the four musicians that were Bad Company proved to be an ideal amalgam of talents and abilities, turning them into a well oiled and highly intelligent music machine that was simply perfect and unstoppable. There in not even one slack track on this entire album, including the CD with the bonuses. Rock perfection incarnate!
In retrospect this album joins the ranks of those essential classic albums, which will be standing on the pedestal of Rock´s achievements for as long as Rock itself will exist as a living musical form. Since they don´t make music like that any more, there is no danger of this music being replaced or forgotten any time soon, at least not as long as those who have been lucky to enjoy the bad company in real life.
| | Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 20/01/2017 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BAD COMPANY ~ LIVE 1977 & 1979
RHINO 081227952334 (Barcode: 081227952334) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 2016
This is an archival live album by the seminal British Rock supergroup Bad CompanyFind albums by this artist. Formed in 1973 by two former members of the legendary FreeFind albums by this artist, vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist and drummer Simon KirkeFind albums by this artist, who were joined by ex-Mott The HoopleFind albums by this artist guitarist Mick RalphsFind albums by this artist and ex-King CrimsonFind albums by this artist bassist Boz BurrellFind albums by this artist. The original lineup of the band managed to last for a whole decade, during which they recorded six studio albums, but not even one live album, which was highly unusual at the time. This album tries, albeit almost forty years later, to remedy the situation and presents two live shows by the band at its peak form, with the two recordings separated by almost two years, each presenting mostly songs from the albums released at the time, i.e. the first show with songs from "Burnin` SkyFind albums with this title", their fourth album released in 1977 and the second show with songs from "Desolation AngelsFind albums with this title", their fifth album released in 1979.
Bad Company was a formidable live act, as these recordings show, which explains the enormous popularity they enjoyed at the time. They are also a living proof that the basic Rock formula of vocals, lead and bass guitars and drums are completely enough to create vital and extraordinary music, without electronics and other artificial trickery. Rogers, as usual, is simply beyond comparison to any other vocalist at the time and in truth to this very day. The band did not change their musical formula for the entire duration of their existence, which was based on great tunes, often soaked with Blues sensitivity, performed with great skill and total involvement, but eschewing unnecessary pyrotechnics.
In many respects this album is a frozen memory of Rock´s last great moments, as the music was about to turn sour soon after with mindless Pop taking over and Rock disappearing as the musical pulse of the generations. Bad Company managed to survive Punk and New Wave, but they did run out of steam soon after and their sixth album, the last featuring the original lineup, was released when the band practically did not exist any more.
This album pays tribute to the three instrumentalists in the band, who prove their great skills on these live recordings. Ralphs is obviously a superb guitarist, who was able to play great solos and support the flow of the music by supplying incredible riffs. Kirke is a great drummer, probably one of the very few top Blues-Rock drummers, who always exhibited brilliant sensitivity and technique. Burrell, who is sadly no longer with us, was a dazzling bassist and his work always provides the cement which kept the music together.
Since nobody plays great Rock today as Bad Company did at the time, perhaps this album could serve as a source of inspiration to some young musicians to learn how it´s done…In the meantime we have this to remember what Rock was all about once.
| | Updated: 20/01/2017Posted: 20/01/2017 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BAD COMPANY ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES
RHINO 081227959241 (Barcode: 081227959241) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1974 - 1979 Released: 2014
This Box Set collects the first five albums recorded by the British Rock supergroup Bad CompanyFind albums by this artist and released between 1974 and 1979. The group was formed soon after the brilliant FreeFind albums by this artist fell apart and included Free vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist and drummer Simon KirkeFind albums by this artist as well as Mott The HoopleFind albums by this artist guitarist Mick RalphsFind albums by this artist and King CrimsonFind albums by this artist bassist Boz BurrellFind albums by this artist. This lineup recorded all these five albums.
Musically Bad Company was initially a direct continuation of where Free left off, i.e. moving gradually away from Blues and Blues-Rock into straightforward Rock with just a tinge of Blues, which was still present mainly due to Rogers´ incredible voice, which sounds Bluesy whatever he sings. The first two albums are absolute classic and the rest slowly loosen the magic, but in retrospect are way better that anything recorded today.
Personally anything that has Paul Rodgers singing on it is fine with me, as he is definitely one of my absolute top vocal favorites, not only because of his superb and unique voice but more importantly due to his wonderful musicality, feel and groove, especially for the Blues but also in the Rock idiom.
Alongside Humble PieFind albums by this artist and Spooky ToothFind albums by this artist, Free and Bad Company were the very core of British Blues-Rock, which was absolutely unbeatable by anything else on this planet. Those bands flourished for a brief period of time between late 1960s and mid-1970s, leaving an unsurpassed heritage, which still is a beacon of excellence decades later. For fans of that genre, this Box Set is an absolute must!
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases 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 has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as 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. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
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: 05/04/2024Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BAD COMPANY ~ STRAIGHT SHOOTER (DELUXE EDITION)
RHINO 081227955533 (Barcode: 081227955533) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the second album by the seminal British Blues-Rock / Rock supergroup Bad CompanyFind albums by this artist. Formed in 1973 by two former members of the legendary FreeFind albums by this artist, vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist and drummer Simon KirkeFind albums by this artist, who were joined by ex-Mott The HoopleFind albums by this artist guitarist Mick RalphsFind albums by this artist and ex-King CrimsonFind albums by this artist bassist Boz BurrellFind albums by this artist. The original lineup of the band managed to last for a whole decade, during which they recorded six studio albums. The original album included eight original songs, one by Ralphs, two by Rodgers, two by Kirke, and three by Rodgers and Ralphs. This remastered edition adds a second CD full of bonus material (14 tracks), thirteen of which are previously unreleased, which include outtakes, alternate versions and B-sides, including studio chatter as well as intelligent and interesting booklet full of relevant information.
Bad Company were beyond a shadow of a doubt one of the all time best British Rock bands, which embodied the process of the development of the British Rock music, which has taken place during the 1960s and included the Blues Revival, the birth of Blues-Rock and Hard-Rock. The band was less Blues oriented than its ancestor bands, especially Free of course, but the basic Blues structures were still very much in place, especially so on the first two albums by the band.
Rodgers, who is the best white Blues vocalist that ever walked the face of the earth, sings Blues regardless of the specific environment he´s in at any specific moment. Whenever he opens his mouth, the Blues pours out, regardless if he means it or not, and this is of course his most important asset paired with his Godly voice. Bad Company allowed him to explore his talents as a singer and songwriter in a more comfortable environment than the turmoil surrounding Free during its troubled existence.
The combined forces of the four musicians that were Bad Company proved to be an ideal amalgam of talents and abilities, turning them into a well oiled and highly intelligent music machine that was simply perfect and unstoppable. There in not even one slack track on this entire album, including the CD with the bonuses. Rock perfection incarnate!
In retrospect this album joins the ranks of those essential classic albums, which will be standing on the pedestal of Rock´s achievements for as long as Rock itself will exist as a living musical form. Since they don´t make music like that any more, there is no danger of this music being replaced or forgotten any time soon, at least not as long as those who have been lucky to enjoy the bad company in real life.
| | Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 20/01/2017 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL DUNMALL / PAUL RODGERS ~ REPERCUSSIONS
FMR 277 (Barcode: 786497181322) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009
Saxophonist Paul DunmallFind albums by this artist and bassist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist are perhaps the two most active and creative players on the contemporary British Avant-Garde Jazz scene, who are still actively expanding the Jazz and Improvised Music idiom. This live recording of the duo is a splendid example of modern music, completely devoid of any preconceptions, limitations and musical boundaries – just pure power of expression, virtuosity and imagination. Dunmall plays soprano saxophone, clarinet and bagpipes, changing intonation and mood without hesitation, with Rodgers responding amicably with his incredible bass work. Both these musicians have already a sizeable recorded legacy released by the splendid FMR label, and this new addition is yet another cornerstone of their collective cathedral of modern music. Although not for a casual listener, this wonderful piece of music will delight any serious Avant-Garde music enthusiast. Not to be missed!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | FREE ~ FIRE AND WATER (DELUXE EDITION)
ISLAND 5306090 (Barcode: 600753060902) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
By the time FreeFind albums by this artist were recording their 3rd album the combined talents of singer Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist, guitarist Paul KossoffFind albums by this artist, bassist Andy FraserFind albums by this artist and drummer Simon KirkeFind albums by this artist, aided by the experience of grueling touring and fast-rising popularity with the crowds inspired the group to take the crucial decision to produce the new album by themselves. In retrospect this was probably the factor which turned Free from just another white Blues band into Blues-Rock Superstars. Fraser & Rodgers, who were in charge of writing the bulk of the band’s material, took their writing just a tiny notch away from the Blues roots towards Rock, apparently just the right step which made their popularity explode overnight. With the “All Right Now” single charting (soon to achieve a permanent seat on Rock’s Pantheon of evergreens) and constant demand for live gigs, the band was riding the wave of success, which in a very short time will lead to their ultimate destruction (as it did to almost every other band eventually). But right at that time they definitely were at their peak, producing a classic album, which will be never rivaled by any other group in that genre. The secret of this album’s greatness lies with the simplicity and “less is more” approach. Having written some great melodies the band did nothing to muddle the raw material and executed it perfectly, using some great riffs. Fraser’s bass lines are pure genius, pointing the music in the right direction, Kirke’s guitar licks create just the perfect fillers, avoiding lengthy solos which did not fit the bill here and Rodgers’ soulful vocals and his unparalleled understanding of the Blues place him immediately on the top of his class. This Deluxe Edition is a tribute to this outstanding album. Out of the 30 tracks (on 2 CDs) only the first 7 come from the original album, the rest being a plethora of studio, radio and live recordings, some previously unreleased. There is a lot of repetition here with 8 versions of “All Right Now” and 7 versions of “Fire And Water”, but they are all quite different and shed a lot of light on the band’s creative process. This album, combined with the ForeverFind albums with this title DVD, which spans the same time period, is a great document of the era, when music was the epicenter of Western Culture, lamentably long time gone. Essential to all Free fans of all ages, even if they already own the original album.
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | FREE ~ FIRE AND WATER (EXPANDED EDITION)
ISLAND 586227 (Barcode: 731458622727) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2001
3rd album includes the monster hit `All Right Now`, which brought the group to the peek of their popularity. FreeFind albums by this artist were undoubtedly the best ever `white blues` band and Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist remains to this day as one of the best blues singers of all times. This albums marks their departure from pure blues style into more rock oriented material.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FREE ~ FREE (EXPANDED EDITION)
ISLAND 586225 (Barcode: 731458622529) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2001
2nd album. FreeFind albums by this artist were the best `white blues` band ever to come out of UK with great players and outstanding vocals by Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist. This album is also still very much about blues, but all the compositions are by the band members. Sounds great today as it did when this album was first released. A piece of music history.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FREE ~ FREE AT LAST (EXPANDED EDITION)
ISLAND 586229 (Barcode: 731458622925) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2002
6th album recorded after FreeFind albums by this artist re-grouped again, following a period of chaotic membership changes. They return to the Blues-based material (what they knew best) and Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist` vocals are superb as usual. The material is all self-penned and ranks among their best yet, with the group chemistry all together again, alas not for long.
| | Updated: 24/06/2023Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FREE ~ LIVE! (EXPANDED EDITION)
ISLAND 586228 (Barcode: 731458622826) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2002
5th album by FreeFind albums by this artist, Britain’s best ever Blues-Rock band, and their first live release. The united powers of vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist, guitarist Paul KossoffFind albums by this artist, bassist Andy FraserFind albums by this artist and drummer Simon KirkeFind albums by this artist created an unprecedented and explosive power, which was never to be matched by any of their contemporaries. Free’s rapid rise to stardom eventually brought the group down to its knees, with internal frictions, drug abuse and grueling touring combined. By the time these live recordings were made in 1970, Free were at the very last days of their first stretch and at the end of the tour the group just felt apart. IslandFind albums on this label Records rushed the release of the live material, riding on the publicity created by the group’s split. Although they would re-group a year later and record one more album together, these recordings are truly the group at their peak and their end all at once. In retrospect it might be all for the best, as Free were always best live, as many “posthumous” recording would prove. Their simplicity was their real power and it worked best on stage. This album is a phenomenal document as to what Blues-Rock is all about. Rodgers, with his completely unique husky voice and expressionist genius has no equals (not then and not since), carrying the tunes as if there’s no tomorrow, aiming straight at the listeners heart. Kossoff’s elegant and reserved guitar style ranks amongst the best Blues guitar work there is, and although he avoids flashy long solos, everything he states in just a few bars is just right on the money. Fraser’s bass lines keep the group together and drive the music steadily, providing as if by the way, some of the most remarkable bass riffs ever. Kirke’s drumming is always right on, again avoiding flashy solos but tasteful and extremely musical. Together they just soar and mesmerize, even when the music is not more complex than basic twelve-bar blues. The expanded edition doubles the original duration with previously unreleased live material from the same gigs and one studio alternate take of the studio track that closes the original album. This is definitely an essential document of the group’s heritage, but of the entire era when music was honest, extraordinary and heartbreaking. A must!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | LAW ~ THE LAW (DELUXE EDITION)
FRIDAY MUSIC 1062 (Barcode: 829421106227) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1991 Released: 2008
This is a reissue of the only album by the short-lived British Rock group The LawFind albums by this artist, co-led by vocalist / songwriter Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist and drummer Kenney JonesFind albums by this artist. The lineup included studio musicians, like guitarists Jim BarberFind albums by this artist and John StaehelyFind albums by this artist, bassists Pino PalladinoFind albums by this artist and George HawkinsFind albums by this artist and keyboardists Steve PigottFind albums by this artist and Jon AstleyFind albums by this artist, as well as many guest musicians like Bryan AdamsFind albums by this artist, David GilmourFind albums by this artist and Chris ReaFind albums by this artist. The original album presents eleven tracks and this edition adds one bonus track. Four of the tracks (including the bonus) are Rogers originals and the rest are by other songwriters.
At the time of its release the album received very little attention and the band never really took off, but in retrospect it is a pretty nice collection of great Rock / Blues-Rock songs and Rogers’ vocals are absolutely sensational, as on every album he ever recorded.
Overall, this is an almost forgotten chapter in Rogers’ brilliant career, which is worth remembering, although the album is quite difficult to get a hold of these days. I have had an absolute blast listening to it again, which is hardly surprising as I have always considered Rogers to be one of the greatest British Rock vocalists of all time.
| | Updated: 24/01/2024Posted: 24/01/2024 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANKIE MILLER ~ LIVE AT ROCKPALAST
MIG 90592 (Barcode: 885513905925) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1976 - 1982 Released: 2013
This Box Set presents a collection of live concert recordings by the great British Blues-Rock vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Frankie MillerFind albums by this artist, captured by the German TV program Rockpalast. The 3CD collection presents forty-three tracks, recorded on three different occasions, as described below. With a few exceptions all the songs were written by Miller.
CD1 was recorded on August 28th, 1982 and the lineup includes Miller, lead guitarist Ed DeaneFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mick WeaverFind albums by this artist, bassist Chrissie StewartFind albums by this artist and drummer Malcolm MortimoreFind albums by this artist.
CD2 was recorded on June 3rd, 1976 and the lineup includes Miller, lead guitarist Ray MinhinnitFind albums by this artist, keyboardist James HallFind albums by this artist, Stewart and drummer Graham DeaconFind albums by this artist.
CD3 was recorded on May 6th, 1979 and the lineup includes Miller, Deane, guitarist / accordionist / violinist Steve SimpsonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Nick JuddFind albums by this artist, bassist Tex CommerFind albums by this artist and drummer Fran BryneFind albums by this artist.
Miller was blessed with an incredible throaty voice, closely similar to that of Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist, Rod StewartFind albums by this artist or Joe CockerFind albums by this artist, also sharing their affinity to the Blues, making him one of the best British Blues-Rock vocalists ever. He recorded a series of excellent albums for the ChrysalisFind albums on this label label, which were reissued in the brilliant Box Set “...That`s Who! - The Complete Chrysalis Recordings (1973-1980)Find albums with this title”, and which is a must to all British Blues-Rock fans. His live performances are full of energy and zest, as this music in this Box Set proves beyond any doubt.
In 1994 Miller suffered a brain aneurysm, who took him out of the performing environment, but he made a remarkable recovery, which took over a decade, and returned to recording music.
Overall, this is a wonderful archival collection of live performances by Miller at his peak, which is a true delight to all Blues-Rock fans, and offers incredible thrill of music performed with joy and passion. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 10/03/2024Posted: 09/03/2024 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | QUEEN + PAUL RODGERS ~ COSMOS ROCKS (DELUXE EDITION)
ISLAND 602537014149 (Barcode: 602537014149) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2008
I must admit it took me a while to even consider listening to this album… I mean, separately, QueenFind albums by this artist was always one of my favorite British Rock bands and of course I have always considered Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist as the best British Blues-Rock vocalist ever, but somehow the combination of these two Rock legends seemed too bizarre to be true. Boy was I wrong…
Of course the real Queen ceased to exist when the bigger than life Freddie MercuryFind albums by this artist left us for greener pastures. But the remaining three band members: guitarist Brian MayFind albums by this artist, bassist John DeaconFind albums by this artist and drummer Roger TaylorFind albums by this artist decided to carry on for a while and released a couple of albums following Mercury´s death. After a decade of silence May and Taylor decided to revive the Queen moniker in order to tour. With Deacon opting to stay out, they enlisted Rodgers as the new lead singer and recorded a live album during the 2005 tour, which was followed three years later by this, their only studio album together. After two more live albums they decided to call it the day for good (so far).
Now Rodgers with his deep, throaty, Bluesy voice was nothing alike the operatic falsetto of Mercury, which meant only one thing, Queen had to change the repertoire to suit Rodgers´ abilities. The early attempt to combine old Queen material with songs associated with Rodgers´ earlier career did not work that well and therefore the band members wrote fourteen completely new songs for this album, which are all credited to all three of them. Musically they range from Rock ballads to Blues-Rock pieces, all of which suit Rodgers´ voice perfectly. The new material turned out to be surprisingly quite excellent. Of course the result proved that the band had to adopt to the lead singer rather than vice versa.
In retrospect this is another excellent album in the long history of Rodgers´ achievements and his many fans will find here exactly what they expect from him. May plays some amazing guitar solos, which he always was capable of doing and overall the album is truly much better that I, and many other people, expected. The cosmos rocks indeed.
This deluxe version includes a DVD with material filmed in Japan during the original 2005 tour, previously unreleased, which is definitely a great fun to watch. Better late then never!
| | | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL RODGERS ~ ELECTRIC
SPV 4001617297025 (Barcode: 4001617297025) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999
This is the fourth solo studio album by British singer / songwriter Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist, the voice of legendary groups like FreeFind albums by this artist and Bad CompanyFind albums by this artist and undoubtfuly the most impressive white Blues / Blues-Rock vocalist ever. The album presents ten original songs, all written by Rodgers (music and lyrics), recorded by a tight unit, which includes guitarist Geoff WhitehornFind albums by this artist, bassist Jaz LochrieFind albums by this artist and drummer Jim CopleyFind albums by this artist. Rodgers plays some guitar and piano, Tom KeelysideFind albums by this artist plays flute and there are also some female background vocals.
The music on this album marks a return to the Blues based songwriting, which is Rodgers´ trademark, away from the MOR approach that characterized this album´s predecessor "NowFind albums with this title", recorded a couple of years earlier. The overall level of the individual songs is excellent and in retrospect they lost nothing of their quality over the years. Rodgers´ vocals are impeccable, as always, full of the soulful, bluesy charm, that knows no equal.
The instrumental parts are also perfect for the job, with many good guitar solos and tight, highly professional executions from start to finish. The flute adds a beautiful touch on "Over You", creating a sort of "Celtic Blues" feel and making it the strongest song on this album by far.
Overall this is a fine album by a superb Artist, who manages to stick to what he does best and tries to do his own thing despite the reality, which basically tries to rob music of all its values. Rodgers always was, and still is, a completely unique voice, a natural born Blues ambassador, who spills his emotions to share them with his listeners with total dedication. I wholeheartedly recommend getting hold of this gem, although it´s pretty tough to get hold of a copy these days. This music is absolutely timeless!
| | Updated: 07/02/2016Posted: 07/02/2016 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL RODGERS ~ FREE SPIRIT
QUARTO VALLEY 805859064124 (Barcode: 805859064124) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018
This is a live recording by veteran British Blues-Rock vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist, captured at the legendary Royal Albert Hall. The concert commemorates the fiftieth anniversary of founding one of the greatest Blues-Rock bands in history, the celebrated mighty FreeFind albums by this artist, which was of course headed by Rodgers. The album presents sixteen classic Free songs, spanning their relatively short history (1968-1972) and six studio (and one live) albums. Rodgers is supported by a superb band, which consists of members of the Deborah BonhamFind albums by this artist band: guitarist Peter BullickFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Gerard LouisFind albums by this artist, bassist Ian RowleyFind albums by this artist and drummer Richard NewmanFind albums by this artist. The accompanying DVD in this set includes the same material as the CD.
Rodgers sings as if the tides of time pass him by completely, with his brilliant husky voice sounding clear and confident as it did five decades earlier. He is without a doubt one of the most stable performers in the Rock world, consistently delivering absolutely superb vocals. He is also the best white Blues vocalist of all times, which he proved over and over again throughout his career.
Free were the epitome of the British Blues Revival of the mid / late 1960s, and although Britain produced scores of great Blues bands, very few of those got anywhere close to the perfect sound and feel of the Blues that Free managed to create at their time, largely due to Rodgers´ vocals, songwriting and leadership.
Although the album does not offer any new music, it is an excellent review of the exquisite material Free created during their heydays, wonderfully played and excellently recorded which should keep every fan of the group ecstatically happy and the connoisseurs of classic British Blues-Rock in seventh heaven.
An absolute must have!
| | Updated: 21/09/2018Posted: 21/09/2018 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL RODGERS ~ MIDNIGHT ROSE
SUN 8067 (Barcode: 015047806720) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2022 - 2023 Released: 2023
This is an album by legendary British Blues / Rock vocalist / songwriter Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist, recorded with guitarist Ray RoperFind albums by this artist, bassist Todd RonningFind albums by this artist and drummer Roy RoperFind albums by this artist. Many guest musicians appear on selected tracks. The album presents eight tracks, all of which are original songs (one co-written) by Rodgers. The album is only a couple of minutes over the half an hour mark, which of course is a pity, especially since we had to wait over five years since his last solo album “Free SpiritFind albums with this title” and almost twenty-five years since his last studio album “ElectricFind albums with this title”. But all things considered, this is a most welcomed return!
Rodgers lost nothing of his charisma, incredible vocal abilities and songwriting skills, and despite his advanced age (he is a couple of years older than me and we share the same birthday), he is still the best Blues rooted British vocalist, since his early days with Free and nobody comes near his throaty, convincing expressionism. I have seen him live on stage many times and he never disappoints, and his collective discography is all absolute classic, regardless of the musical environment, when he was flirting with Blues-Rock (Bad CompanyFind albums by this artist), Rock (The FirmFind albums by this artist / The LawFind albums by this artist) or Pop (QueenFind albums by this artist), his vocals were always irresistible.
Overall, this is a most welcome releases by one of my favorite vocalists of all time, a master of the Blues domain and a great Artist with an incredible career behind him. It is great to see him in perfect shape, giving us old farts hope for a few more years to enjoy life with music. You simply can’t go wrong with Paul Rodgers!
| | Updated: 05/12/2023Posted: 05/12/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL RODGERS ~ MUDDY WATER BLUES
EAGLE 222 (Barcode: 5034504122222) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2002
British vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist is without a doubt the greatest white Blues singer of all times. Since his days as the front man of the legendary FreeFind albums by this artist and in the five decades that followed no other vocalist managed to demonstrate the same level of sensitivity, virtuosity and feeling even remotely close to those of Rodgers. This stunning album, which as the title suggests is a tribute to the great Blues singer / songwriter Muddy WatersFind albums by this artist, finds Rodgers performing the classic material with flare and his usual brilliance. He is accompanied by a horde of great guitarists, all paying tribute to the great Godfather of Blues: Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, David GilmourFind albums by this artist, Buddy GuyFind albums by this artist, Brian MayFind albums by this artist, Steve MillerFind albums by this artist, Gary MooreFind albums by this artist, Trevor RabinFind albums by this artist, Neal SchonFind albums by this artist, SlashFind albums by this artist and a few others. Anything else said about this music is completely redundant – just grab it when you can as this is one of the greatest Blues albums ever recorded!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SAROST ~ AURORA
JAZZ NOW 03 (Barcode: 5060774190906) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2025 Released: 2025
This is the debut album by the British Jazz Trio SarostFind albums by this artist, comprising of saxophonist Larry StabbinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist and drummer Mark SandersFind albums by this artist. The album presents four lengthy tracks, all co-credited to the trio members, with the additional credit to Keith TippettFind albums by this artist on the last track.
Considering the collective legacy of these three veteran musicians, it is not surprising to find them improvising freely for the entire duration of this album, displaying their amazing technique and experience. The music takes no prisoners and listeners not used to highly Avant-Garde improvised interactions, each lasting for about a quartet of an hour, should be fairly warned to proceed with caution.
However, listeners familiar with previous recordings and appearances by these Artists, should enjoy their collective interactions, as they all have plenty of experience and imagination to share with their listeners. There is plenty of impressive soloing herein and collective camaraderie, of the highest intensity. This is the 3rd release on the new Jazz NowFind albums on this label label, run by the good people of Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label, sharing their finds with all of us.
Overall, this is music for a very limited audience of Avant-Garde / Improvised Music niche, as such of the highest quality, but for the rest of the world it is simply beyond comprehension and ability of communicating with it. I feel happy to belong to the first category and thanks for sharing!
| | Updated: 11/06/2025Posted: 11/06/2025 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
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