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UB40 – WHO YOU FIGHTING FOR?: On the 25th anniversary of their recording debut, the multiplatinum British eight-member reggae supergroup UB40 are returning to their musical roots with their new album, Who You Fighting For? Weaving together their revolutionary roots and pop sensibilities, UB40 delivers seven new originals and six covers, including a version of Lennon and McCartney's "I'll Be On My Way." The album has already garnered two Top 40 hits in the UK with the Indian-flavored "Reasons" and "Kiss and Say Goodbye." Mojo Magazine called the CD a "return to form for the UK's best selling reggae act," featuring tight arrangements and frontman Ali Campbell's heartfelt, distinct vocals at the fore of a collection of originals and five covers of classic 70's era soul and reggae. Much of the album features songs infused with political, spiritual and romantic messages such as "Plenty More," "Sins Of The Fathers" and "One Woman Man." The album has already garnered two Top 40 hits in the UK with the Indian-flavored "Reasons" and "Kiss and Say Goodbye."
UFO JIM – DANCING WITH ALIENS: UFO Jim is a singer, songwriter and guitarist. Other musicians supply bass, drums and keys on this twelve-track collection. UFO Jim's songs are imaginative, blending the blues with rock, funk, hip-hop and a dash of celestial. His music has been described as "Frank Zappa jamming with ZZ Top". Jim writes lyrics that are filled with dark imagery and zany insights. His production methods at times are unorthodox but work in the context and diversity of UFO's music. 'China Belle' is the opening track with its funky beat and wild keyboards combined with chunky bass lines and Jim rapping about weird scene in San Francisco. 'Pretty Little Fiend' flows on a swirling B3 and an up-tempo, bluesy beat leading into the funny hook line "pretty . . . fiend". 'Kris Kringle Song' combines holiday cheer with a disco beat and festive keyboards. In contrast are the somewhat sinister lyrics filled with innuendo. If you are looking for unique rock with outlandish imagery , UFO Jim and his band is for you!
UPSTAGE MAGAZINE PRESENTS – COME BACK TO THE JERSEY SHORE, VOL 1: Upstage Magazine is a monthly publication in print and online that covers the arts and culture. Upstage's main focus is central New Jersey but also includes information on major films, indie music, dance, poetry and theater in and beyond New Jersey. In addition, Upstage is involved in online music websites which features both mainstream and up-and-coming artists. Come Back To The Jersey Shore, Vol 1 is a call to support local musicians and promote some of the great artists that Upstage has heard in local clubs such as The Stone Pony. The twenty-track collection features a diverse mix of rockers and acoustic players from the Jersey shore scene. The CD has a lot of original music to offer. Some of my favorites artists were Stereo Soul, Days Awake, Soul's Release, Maybe Pete, Bob Burger and Mimi Cross. The CD demonstrates that there is still a vital music scene in central Jersey. The CD can be purchased at Upstage's website and many of the featured artists can been seen and heard at New Jersey clubs.
URU – UTOPIA: Uru is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Her name means "essence of wealth" and Uru brings a wealth of tuneful styles to her ambitious, seventeen-track collection. Uru's music is a magical mix of up-tempo, dance tracks and slow, melodic songs. She utilizes lush production and layered instrumentation and mixing. Uru culls her sound from a diversity of world influences from African rhythms to United States rock. Uru's is a versatile singer whose lyrics are poetic and visual. 'Pilot' is the short intro of breathy vocals and whispering percussion that heralds in 'Step' with its snappy rhythm. The vocal mix is interesting, as Uru singing the hook word "step" in one tone and responding to herself in another as a third vocal loop adds its accent. "You Know!?" has a sultry beat melding with string instruments as Uru's vocals range from deep and sexy to soulfully high powered. 'Udu...Someday' builds on the story of a girl who breaks the family's udu a clay pot used to store water and can also be used as a drum. The song has African grooves interspersed with a subtle beat and multi-layered vocals. Uru brilliantly blends the blues, hip-hop, rock and world into her own unique brew that ranges from danceable to reflective. Uru has crafted musical Utopia on her latest release!
VAN MORRISON – MAGIC TIME: Van Morrison was born in Belfast, Ireland in 1945. Van grew up listening to blues greats such as Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker. In 1964, Morrison formed the R&B band Them and in 1967 started his solo career working with jazz musicians on Astral Weeks. Since than, Van has explored and recorded a diversity of musical styles. Today, Morrison is still a creative multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and producer. Van is supported by a group of seasoned players including guitarist Foggy Lyttle who the album is dedicated to. Magic Time is an eclectic mix of originals and some traditionals. This thirteen-track collection covers a gamut of genres and moods from blues to Celtic to jazz and rock. As expected, Van's songs are well written, some are "quasi autobiographical" and others are metaphorical. Morrison sticks to his musical principals giving new tracks a familiar feel and handling covers with dignity. 'Stranded' opens and closes with Van playing a soulful, alto sax. The rest of the instrumentation is gentle allowing Morrison's lament "I'm stranded" to lead the song. 'Celtic New Year' features the Irish Film Orchestra along with gentle yet lush instrumentation and Van's expressive vocals. 'They Sold Me Out' is a spiritual song about Jesus but could also be applied to Van. The song has a subtle gospel vibe but the electric piano and rock instruments make it a contemporary piece. Magic Time is enchanting and Van Morrison is still a magical musician!
VANESSA RANDALL – TAKE A CHANCE: Vanessa Randall is an inspirational singer/songwriter. Vanessa has been singing since a young age and considers her music an opportunity to minister and help others. Thus, her relationship with Just Records is a good fit. Her thirteen-track debut features a variety of collaborations and musical styles. The CD blends urban R & B with peppy pop. Although Vanessa brings a youthful sprit to her songs, there is also a maturity to her lyrics and soulful vocal style. "Praise" flows over a funky, up-tempo beat enhanced with sound effects. The song includes Larry Love whose voice beautifully blends with Randall's rich voice. "We'll Make It" is featured twice on the CD, one is a full instrumental version and the other acapella. Both interpatations feature Unison. It is a ballad about marriage that overflows with the hope and joy of love. The combination of voices adds to the magic of the music. Vanessa Randall shines brightly on her inspirational debut!
VARIOUS ARTISTS – CHICAGO SOUL SESSIONS VOLUME 1: Chicago Soul Sessions is the freshman release from Listen Up Records. The CD is first rate showcasing talented indie artists and producers from the Chicago region. This twelve-track collection is a quality mix of funk, jazz, soul and so much more. The CD opens with neo-soul singer Cherisse. She is an expressive, sensuous vocalist whose poetic music fuses gospel with jazz and soul. A steady beat is the undercurrent of her song as waves of innovative keys and Cherisse rich vocals flow to the top of the mix. The CD also includes Kevin Chandler who is a singer, songwriter and producer. Kevin's compositions magically blend melody and rhythm in inventive arrangements. Kevin has a stunning voice and range to convey his compelling lyrics. The McKenzie Burns Project is a dynamic group that crafts modern jazz with spicy world flavors. Both 'Judging You' and 'Brazilian Love Affair' are prime example of their dramatic, soulful flair and their use of varied moods and tempos. They also harmonize well. Kaialexander is a keyboardist, producer and singer as well as a graduate of Berklee College of Music. Kaialexander uses his passion and skills to craft unique, multifaceted songs that meld hip-hop, jazz, R&B, soul and urban. Teddy Austin is a composer, producer and singer. He sites gospel as his musical roots but his songs incorporates modern beats with creative instrumentation. Teddy is also a versatile vocalist who sings from the heart. Chester Gregory is a singer and dancer who has appeared in numerous theater productions. He is a five-octave vocalist who sings with subtle power over soothing instrumentation. Chicago Soul Sessions Volume 1 is a diverse, stunning sampler of talented artists from the windy city!
VARIOUS ARTISTS – FOREVER NEIL DIAMOND: Shout! Factory celebrates the songwriting talents of superstar musician and performer Neil Diamond with a brand new collection of songs on CD. Recorded by a tremendously varied group of artists over an equally expansive period of time, Forever Neil Diamond showcases the wide appeal of these 14 Diamond-penned classics. Beginning with pop band The Monkees' 1967 #2 Billboard pop chart hit "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You" to the legendary Elvis Presley's 1970 recording of "And The Grass Won't Pay No Mind" to alternative rockers Urge Overkill's cover of "Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon," Diamond's songs have stood the test of time and successfully traverse musical genres. As Robbie Robertson recently stated, "In the brilliant Tin Pan Alley tradition of songwriters, Neil Diamond is one of the greatest ever." Though Diamond remained popular as a performer through the '70s, '80s and '90s, it was UB40's cover of "Red Red Wine" that took Diamond to the very top of the charts again in 1988, and Neil Diamond became "cool" in the eyes of the Gen-Xers. Alternative band Urge Overkill sealed the deal two years later with "Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon" which became a hit when it appeared in the box office giant Pulp Fiction. More recently, Irish punk legend Shane McGowan recorded "Cracklin' Rosie" and indie rockers Crooked Fingers (former members of Archers of Loaf) took their own stab at "Solitary Man." Forever Neil Diamond includes it all - Motown, R&B, rock 'n' roll, bubble gum pop, dance hall, Irish punk and more. The various artists included on this collection simply recognize a well-crafted song when they see one, no matter what musical genre they represent. Inarguably, Neil Diamond knows how to write a great song.
VARIOUS ARTISTS – FUTURE RETRO: Future Retro features classic '80s alternative songs remixed by today's hottest club DJs and producers updating the era's shimmering synthesized sounds. Featuring 14 brand-new remixes, Future Retro includes The Crystal Method tweaking New Order's "Bizarre Love Triangle," Jaded Alliance roughing up Erasure's "A Little Respect," and Static Revenger electrifying INXS' "Need You Tonight." Future Retro features some of today's hottest mixers. For example, Richard X produced M.I.A. and Annie and remixed the The Bravery's latest single. The dance world is already abuzz about Future Retro. Static Revenger's remix of "Need You Tonight" was voted one of the top three tracks at last year's Winter Music Conference, and New Order's Peter Hook debuted The Crystal Method's remix of "Bizarre Love Triangle" during his DJ set at the conference. And when Adam Freeland premiered his remix of "Nowhere Girl" during his set at Hollywood's Avalon this spring, the crowd went crazy!
VARIOUS ARTISTS – NASCAR 3D: THE IMAX EXPERIENCE-ORGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK: NASCAR continues to grow in popularity and racing is now the number one spectator sport in America. The season begins in February with the Daytona 500 and runs through November. In 2004, NASCAR released an IMAX film about the sport. The film was a huge success and it is being re-launched in 2005 in conjunction with a DVD and this rocking CD. NASCAR 3D features fourteen-tracks from popular country, pop and rock musicians. The diverse mix also included two scores by Eric Colvin that remembers Dale Earnhardt and captures the excitement of "start your engines". Platinum selling artist LeAnn Rimes sings an inspiring rendition of the 'Star Spangled Banner'. The CD opens with the high-octane 'Boom' by P.O.D. This song powers one of the most memorable racing shots in the IMAX film. It is followed by the southern infused 'Firing Line' – a newer song by The Allman Brothers Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd's 'Sweet Home Alabama'. The pace keeps racing with Sheryl Crow's 'Steve McQueen', LeAnn's energized 'I Got It Bad' and a Wes Cunningham cover of the 'La Grange'. Along with the instrumentals by Mr. Colvin the CD speeds along with Robert Belfour, Collective Soul, Steve Harwell (Smash Mouth) and Three Shams Brothers. The CD closes with the dramatic 2004 season theme 'Thunder' by Dave Robidoux. Reeve up your CD player for the NASCAR 3D Soundtrack!
VARIOUS ARTISTS – PURE '80s #1s: The '80s were a hit-and-miss decade. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Pac-Man, MTV, "Miami Vice," "Cheers," "The Cosby Show," the CD, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame were hits. The New Coke, the return of Haley's Comet, and the DeLorean were misses. On the music charts, the hits and misses were just as obvious. Eighteen of the hits--all songs that peaked at #1 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart, 11 of them gold or platinum--are now heard on Pure '80s: #1s (Hip-O/UMe). First out of the box are 1981's gold "Kiss On My List" from the blue-eyed soul duo of Daryl Hall & John Oates and the gold, Oscar(r)-winning "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)" from Christopher Cross as heard in classic comedy film. From the following year, Pure '80s: #1s culls another soundtrack, Rocky III, for the Oscar-nominated, double platinum "Eye Of The Tiger" from Survivor and the platinum "Down Under" from a band from Oz, the Colin Hay-led Men At Work. 1983 contributes a handful of vintage gems: "Owner Of A Lonely Heart" from progressive rock giant Yes, the gold Sting-penned "Every Breath You Take" from The Police, and gold "All Night Long (All Night)" from Lionel Richie, who also wrote and co-produced the song heard on his Grammy(r) Album of the Year Can't Slow Down. Two other songs, however, are even more indelibly associated with the '80s: the quirky gold "Karma Chameleon" from the Boy George-fronted Culture Club and Oscar-nominated "Maniac," the Michael Sembello performed-written-produced track heard in Flashdance. From 1984, another song with movie ties, Tina Turner's gold "What's Love Got To Do With It," appeared on her blockbuster Private Dancer album and lent its title to her autobiography and hit biopic. The year 1985, recently made famous by the Bowling For Soup radio hit baring its name, contributed "Kyrie" from Mr. Mister and a pair of anthems: Tears For Fears' "Everybody Wants To Rule The World" and Robert Palmer's gold "Addicted To Love." Pure '80s: #1s closes the decade with 1989's "The Living Years" from Mike + The Mechanics, the gold, Diane Warren-penned "When I See You Smile" from Bad English and gold "She Drives Me Crazy" from Fine Young Cannibals.
VARIOUS ARTISTS – SCRUBS, VOL. 2: The digital release of Scrubs, Vol. 2, the companion album to the hit NBC comedy, is available NOW exclusively through iTunes. The soundtrack is featured on the site's TV Show section – a first for the mega-popular music online destination. The cutting-edge album spotlights the best musical moments from the Emmy award-winning series. "Scrubs has been a music-driven show from the beginning," says the series creator, Bill Lawrence. "The writers and actors on the show have taken pride in seeing bands and finding new music and we hope people enjoy it as much as we do." Adds Scrubs producer Randall Winston, "there are very few artists on our soundtrack that have not become part of the Scrubs family." Hollywood Records has announced a May 9th digital release for SCRUBS, the companion album to the hit NBC comedy. The soundtrack will be available exclusively through iTunes, where it will be featured on the site's TV Show section – a first for the mega-popular music online destination. The cutting-edge album spotlights the best musical moments from the Emmy award-winning series, including songs from New York City rock act Elefant ("Why"), singer-songwriter Joseph Arthur ("In The Sun"), country rockers The Mavericks ("I Want To Know"), Old 97's lead singer Rhett Miller ("Our Love") and choral symphonic pop group The Polyphonic Spree ("Light & Day").
VARIOUS ARTISTS – TOTALLY HITS 2005: The Totally Hits series began in 1999. Since than "Hits" has been successfully showcasing hit makers. The 2005 edition features a variety of styles from pop, rap, R&B and rock. The CD opens strong with pop singer Kelly Clarkson playing 'Since U Been Gone' followed by rocking Gavin DeGraw. Midway through the CD, Fantasia sings 'Truth Is' flowing into Maroon 5's 'Sunday Morning'. Grammy award winning Alicia Keys performs 'Karma' and the edgy Avril Lavigne sings 'Nobody's Home'. Rappers include Trick Daddy's 'Let's Go'. Trick Daddy with Feat D and Twister rap over an Ozzy Osbourne loop. Rupee uses scratches and electronics to covey 'Tempted To Touch'. Totally Hits 2005 is a diverse collection of contemporary music and perhaps a commentary on the future of popular music as two of the twenty artists featured on this CD are previous American Idol winners. Totally Hits 2005 is a good introduction to chart topping music from today's stars!
VARIOUS ARTISTS – THE 40 YEAR-OLD VIRGIN SOUNDTRACK: The 40 Year-Old Virgin Soundtrack features seventeen songs from the movie, fifteen are mainstream recordings. The last two songs, a cover of 'Aquarius' and the bonus track 'The First Time', are performed by the movie cast. The CD has an assorted mix of music ranging from pop, R&B, rock and soul. The diverse blend of songs is used to help tell Andy's story. Some are funny in the context of the movie or were chosen because they are just plain good. Fans of the 80's will hear familiar favorites from the decade including Asia's 'Heat of the Moment' and Lionel Richie's 'Hello'. Yet, the soundtrack features classic artists such as James Brown, Dr. Hook and Smokey Robinson. If you are looking for an interesting and fun mix of music, look no further than The 40 Year-Old Virgin Soundtrack, whether or not you see the movie!
VARIOUS ARTISTS – WHATEVER – The 90's Pop & Culture CD Sampler: Whatever is a twelve-track collection of 90's music. It is a small sample of the Whatever seven-disk box set that was released in July of 2005. The sampler and complete box set are a broad look at the music of the 90's ranging from pop, rap, rock and more. The seven CD set features one hundred thirty songs from a variety of artists and genres. The box set also comes with an eighty-four-page booklet that has a 90's timeline, commentary and photos. Since some labels would not permit their artists to be a part of the project, grunge's Nirvana, pop superstars the Backstreet Boys and some notable others are missing from this ample assortment. The seven CDs cover a diversity of music ranging from M.C. Hammer to Moby. The twelve track CD is a mix, starting with Deee-Lite's danceable 'Groove Is In The Heart' followed by Naughty By Nature rapped by O.P.P. My Bloody Valentine's 'Only Shallow' is an edgy rocker with a touch of goth. House of Pain performs 'Jump Around' which is heavy on raps, rhythms and sound effects. En Vogue's 'Free Your Minds' captures the popularity of harmonizing girl groups singing over dance beats. 'God' by Tori Amos reminds us that other women in the 90's were performing strong, startling music. Tori is followed by the innovative and quirky Flaming Lips and R.E.M.'s 'What's The Frequency Kenneth'. Track nine features The Rembrandts singing the complete version of the theme from Friends. Jewel, the evolving folk rocker won countless fans in the 90's with 'Who Will Save Your Soul'. The Barenaked Ladies entertained us with their unique fun approach to music and the sampler concludes with the pop-rock sensation the Goo Goo Dolls. Whatever captures the music of the 90's in a diverse and delightful mix!
VERSAILLES – BELIEVE: Dianna St. Hilaire aka Versailles is "the Goth girl with the piano". Dianna is a singer, songwriter and keyboard player from California. Her influences include The Cure and Tori Amos. St. Hilaire often performs as a solo artist but on this four-track sampler she is supported by Andy Bettis on lead guitar and Rod Arias on electronic drums. Dianna's music is dark wave, alternative with atmospheric piano chords. St. Hilaire pens shadowy lyrics but her sweet, high ranging voice keeps the songs from being too scary, yet her music is haunting. Dianna sings with raw emotion and her classical piano playing adds character and originality to her songs. The CD features two versions of the title track 'Believe'. The first focuses on moody keyboards and vocals, whereas the second translation relies more on tempos but St. Hilaire's singing is still central. 'Lamentations' was my favorite track and featured dramatic vocals and instrumentation combined with grave guitars. Versailles takes Goth to a higher level and hearing is believing!
VESPER – VESPER: The core members of Vesper are Aaron Lewis – a multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and producer, and Katie Cooper – who also plays several instruments, composes and sings. They are joined by guest players who add cello and drums to their eclectic style of music. Vesper's sound is gothic and heavy but softened with the use of various Middle Eastern instruments. Both Aaron and Katie pen songs that are haunting and poetic. Vesper's self-titled, three-track maxi-single is in advance of their full-length release that is currently in the works. 'First Frost' is intriguing with its blend of dark vocals and instrumentation juxtaposed with light Middle Eastern melodies and textures. 'Cinders' smolders with fiery bass lines and scorching guitars layered over Katie's sweet but provocative vocals. 'Subway Sonata' combines sound and vocal effects over a concrete rhythm and durable guitar leads. Vesper is a forceful duo creating music that is diverse, dramatic and a sonic boom!
VICKI LEE – DREAM AS IF YOU'LL LIVE FOREVER: Vicki Lee has been singing professionally for almost a decade, winning accolades and awards along the way. Lee is a commanding, versatile vocalist who brings just the right tone to her eleven originals and an impressive cover of 'My Heart Will Go On'. I was surprised that songwriter Vicki Lee and her collaborator and mother Laura Smith are from the state of Maine. This CD has the heart and soul of Nashville, yet it cannot be pigeonholed into the country genre as Vicki blends the blues, pop and rock into many of her songs. 'Crossing' On Over' is the up-tempo opener. Honky-tonk piano combined with some stellar slide keeps the song flowing along with the roar of a Harley. Vicki's vocals are sassy and harmonize well with Laura's parts. 'Don't Get Me Started' contrasts a perky tempo with Lee's feisty description of a bad day. 'Angels on Golden Wings' is slow and sweet. It is a moving tribute to those who died on 9/11. The slide guitar and piano convey the sorrow of losing a loved one as Vicki's vocals soar. Vicki Lee, Laura Smith and their band have crafted a first class CD!
WAMPUS MULTIMEDIA – AFTER HOURS: After Hours is a tribute to influential rocker Lou Reed. Since the late 60's to the present, Lou Reed has inspired many musicians and genres. Some consider him the godfather of punk and he is well respected for insightful lyrics and eclectic, diverse sounds. Wampus Records is "an indie label run by artists for artists." They support various genres and their tribute CD is a great venue to feature up-and-coming musicians. This fourteen-track collection covers a wide spectrum of Reed's music. All the interpretations are interesting and prepared with passion and precision. Production is first rate and the diversity of songs and styles is top quality. My particular favorites are as follows. 'Sunday Morning' featuring Johnny J Blair and the Cellarbirds. Johnny has crisp clean vocals that are ideal for storytelling. The Cellarbirds provide imaginative instrumentation that captures the positive energy and optimism of the song. 'How Do You Think It Feels' by tvfordogs is funky with magical keys contrasting with edgy guitar leads and varied vocals. The Underhills cover of 'Turn To Me' has twanging intriguing guitar work, subtle beats and vocal inflections reminiscent of Lou himself. Overall, this eclectic collection captures the essence of Lou Reed's while featuring talented emerging artists. Enjoy!
WAMPUS MULTIMEDIA – HURRY HOME EARLY THE SONGS OF WARREN ZEVON: Hurry Home Early features thirteen Zevon songs interpreted by indie musicians from the United States and the United Kingdom. Zevon was an artist torn between despair and hope and his music was diverse and dynamic. This collection spans Warren's career from the late 60's until his untimely death in 2003. The selections include some lesser-known songs, yet Warren's wry and wit still shines through. Each band on this tribute CD captures the dark essence of Zevon but adds their own colorful, contemporary stylings to the music. Highlights of the album include Phil Cody's edgy cover of 'Splendid Isolation', The Matthew Show's version of 'Mohammed's Radio' and Alpha Cat's pop/rock interpretation of 'Reconsider Me'. The whole CD is interesting, showcasing emerging talent and some of Warren's many musical nuggets. In addition to producing an eclectic, impressive CD, Wampus Multimedia is donating $1.00 from each Hurry Home Early sale to the American Cancer Society.
WHITNEY CLINE – BRING ON THE RAIN: Whitney Cline is a producer, singer and songwriter. Whitney also plays guitar and vox on her thirteen-track, debut release. Cline is a strong, passionate vocalist supported by stellar musicians who add bass, cello, drums, piano, organ and more guitars to the mix. Whitney writes intelligent, insightful songs about duality and journeys. Her influences include The Grateful Dead, Joni Mitchell and other classic rockers. Whitney incorporates old style into contemporary well-arranged compositions. Clines' music is a soulful blend of folk, pop, roots rock and world. 'Bring On The Rain' flows on Whitney's sultry vocals and innovative instrumentation. The slide and subtle whah-whah guitars add country and blues to mix as the piano and B3 add a southern jazz flavoring. 'Closer To You' is a haunting song about a painful relationship. Cline's vocals are full of emotion and powerful in its range. The gentle tempo and guitars add to the aching sentiment of the song. Bring On The Rain is the type of CD that just keeps growing on you as the songs are multi-layered both lyrically and instrumentally. Whitney's music has wide range appeal and Cline has star appeal!
WIDESPREAD PANIC – EARTH TO AMERICA: Widespread Panic is back with Earth To America, the band's first studio album since 2003. For their latest album, Earth To America, Widespread Panic wanted to try something new - a new producer, a new studio, even a new country in which to work. It's what brought them to the Bahamas to work with producer Terry Manning, an inspired pairing that yielded some big rewards. Says Todd Nance (drums), "It's like he was waiting for us to touch upon what he was thinking. It was effortless; there wasn't a moment when we didn't know where to go or what to do." Adds John Bell (vocals, guitar), "He brings out some really heavy and rich tones." Perhaps more than any other word, "adventure" embodies the spirit of Widespread Panic. From their humble genesis in 1986 at the University of Georgia, where Bell first met guitarist, vocalist and band namesake Michael "Panic" Houser, all the way to the band's twentieth anniversary, adventure has fueled the journey. As JB explains, "You do make a plan, but the plan is to not have a plan." And it's this willingness to dive head-first into the unknown that has established one of the most rabid and loyal fan bases the music industry has ever seen a fan base that has accounted for the sale of over 3 million albums, attendance records at some of the nation's most prestigious venues, and more than a decade on Pollstar's Top 50 tours of the year list. But it's not just the music world that has taken notice. In addition to the band showing up in the pages (and in some cases on the cover) of all the major music magazines, Widespread Panic's revolutionary business model has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Variety, Billboard Magazine, CNN, CNBC and Fortune Magazine.
WILLIE NILE – BEAUTIFUL WRECK OF THE WORLD: Willie Nile is a well respected singer, songwriter and producer who has worked and performed with Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Barenaked Ladies and many others. Willie also plays guitar, piano and keyboards. Beautiful Wreck of the World has received rave reviews from critics and fellow musicians such as Bono. This thirteen-track collection spans a wide range from guitar-laden rockers, to ballads to reflective folk. Nile's music has a Dylan vibe and he writes profound powerful lyrics just like Bob. This CD gets better with each playing as subtle instrumentation such as the tambourine, the echo harp, the Uilleann Pipes and the organ reveal themselves. Other tracks feature strong guitar leads layered with fine rhythm guitar chords. Nile has an intriguing voice that is a little rough but his words are clear and concise, which is important as his songs are compelling. The CD starts strong with 'You Gotta Be A Buddha' an up-tempo folksy rap that outlines the woes of the world and melds into the catchy hook line. It also features some fine guitar work. 'History 101' is witty and has a great funky groove and more impressive guitar parts. 'On the Road to Calvary' written for Jeff Buckley is haunting and rich with expressive visual lyrics enhanced by the echo harp. Beautiful Wreck of the World is a beautiful collection of diverse songs from a multi-talented musician!
WILLIE NILE – STREETS OF NEW YORK: Willie Nile has completed Streets of New York, his first album since 1999's acclaimed Beautiful Wreck of the World. In what U2's Bono has called "a great album . . . the songs all stand on their own," Nile has crafted what many feel is the best album of his career. Praise for Nile's new effort comes from a number of legendary artists. Lou Reed, for instance, calls Streets of New York "a great album." Graham Parker opines: "Willie Nile's Streets of New York is a real gem – stirring melodies, passionate vocals, intriguing lyrics . . . every track a winner." Lucinda Williams comments: "Willie Nile is a great artist. If there was any justice in this world, I'd be opening up for him instead of him for me." Ian Hunter says: "Willie's from the big-hearted downtown alleyways of NYC (New York commitment). Well done!" And Little Steven adds: "Willie Nile is so good I can't believe he's not from New Jersey!" In making Streets of New York, Nile turned to some friends for help. Jakob Dylan and Rami Jaffee of the Wallflowers appear on the songs "The Day I Saw Bo Diddley in Washington Square" and "Game of Fools." Larry Campbell, formerly of Bob Dylan's band, played on various songs. The band heard on every track on the album features Andy York (John Mellencamp, Mary Lee's Corvette), Brad Albetta (Rufus and Martha Wainwright) and Rich Pagano (Fab Faux, Rosanne Cash). The album contains 13 original tracks plus a cover of The Clash's version of Eddy Grant's "Police on My Back." The song "Cell Phones Ringing (in the Pockets of the Dead)" was written in honor of the victims of the Madrid train bombings, though there always seems to be new tragedy for which it's appropriate.
WOMEN IN DOCS – UNDER A DIFFERENT SKY: Women in Docs is a dynamic duo from Australia. Both Chanel Lucas and Roz Poppalardo are singers, songwriters and multi-instrumentalists. Their sound is a mix of alternative folk and pop. Chanel and Roz pen lyrics that are humorous and observational. They are supported by talented musicians and vocalists who add layers to acoustic based songs. Many of the eleven tracks on this CD feature bouncing rhythms. Chanel and Roz's vocals are effective individually or in harmony. Although Under A Different Sky is their debut full-length CD, Women In Docs are seasoned players who have performed at many festivals in Australia and beyond. Their music is spirited even when there is a sad or serious undercurrent. 'Crown Street' and 'I Wanna See' are snappy folk tunes, but listen more closely and there are a lot more great sounds to be heard including strings on song two. I also liked the unusual 'Noise Pollution' with its rapid rhythms and punk inspired vocal inflections. Women In Docs write songs that are honest and original, presenting them in elevated folk rock settings!
WOODEN STARES – A STORY AS SAD AS IT'S TOLD: The Wooden Stares is an energetic quartet based out of Fayetteville, Arkansas. Their songs have a classic yet contemporary sound that runs the gamut from hard rocking to melodic. Wooden Stares' twelve-track debut has already created a buzz along with comparisons to well establish bands such as Modest Mouse and Toadie. They are also building a strong reputation for their live shows. The Wooden Stares are already working on a second album. Lance Lamberth is a versatile vocalist, who sings with passion, reminiscent of Eddie Veder. The rest of the band brings diversity, innovation and power to lyrics that are filled with often dark, imagery. My two favorite songs on the CD ("Machine" & "Red Metal Box") are what I would call epics. Both were dynamic with lots of drama, enhanced with interesting bridge and chord changes, going well beyond a quick rock tune. Wooden Stares is potent and their freshman release is hard-hitting and original!
WOODY RUSSELL – SALT: Woody Russell is a singer/songwriter who also plays banjo, guitar and loops. Woody, who first picked up the guitar at age seven, has performed at many well-respected events including Newport Folk Festival and Nashville New Music Conference. Russell's songs flavorfully blend a roots-rock base with blues, country, jazz and soul. He is skillful at melding modern and vintage seasons into well-produced songs. Russell is supported by a talented band playing lap steel, upright bass and additional vocals. Woody's lyrics look at the human experience with stories ranging from forgotten to victorious. Yet, his music is humorous and offers glimpses of hope. Salt is an eclectic mix of styles and all fourteen tracks are filled with rich imagery. 'Count On Me' is the strong opening track with standout jazzy instrumentation with each discernible as Woody warmly sings his visual lyrics. In comparison, the second song 'Parts and Labor' is witty and has an up-tempo, country flavor. 'Leaving' is slow and sweet with reflective lyrics and stellar, steel leads. Salt is a diverse, bold collection and a good complement to any music collection!
WREN OWENS – WREN: Wren is the self-titled debut release from Wren Owens. Wren has been singing since a young age, later she focused her attention on acting and has appeared in commercials, videos and films. Wren is currently running a spiritual retreat center in western New York State, which allowed her time to record some of the many songs she has penned over the years. Her songs are stories filled with emotions, tales of happiness and lyrics of loneliness, topics that anyone can relate to. Wren's music melds a variety of genres including classic rock, jazz, American blues with hints of both pop and swing. She is joined by four other talented players who provide guitars, bass, drums, keys and production. The finished product is a twelve-track collection with many moods and stylings. Wren has a deep sultry voice and sings her diverse songs with passion. The instrumentation throughout the CD is first rate, as band members have their own musical history to draw from. Wren and the band combine rhythms and melodies to create songs with varied paces and tones. Wren is a great start for this budding musician! |
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