Monthly Archives: August 2007

Bruce Molsky proves that you can be scholarly about American roots music without being boring. On Soon Be Time he entertains his listeners on fiddle, banjo, and finger-picked guitar. All solo, no overdubbing, just him, an instrument, and you. This is Molsky’s sixth solo album, and much of the material was developed from live performances. [...]

Sibling harmonies are invariably sited for the unmatched quality that results from the close similarity of the voices – from the Everly Brothers to the Pointer Sisters. But the Roche sisters’ one-of-a-kind blend comes from three very dissimilar voices. Terre climbs the upper register, Maggie can hit low notes that would make Junior Brown jealous, [...]

On his latest release, Dave Stryker collaborates once again with saxophonist Steve Slagle, and the two are joined by bassist Jay Anderson and Billy Hart on drums, and Joe Lovano joins on tenor sax for a couple cuts. Stryker’s bop on the opener, “Knew Hold,” swings mightily, especially when he’s soloing. After the guitar and [...]

The Psychedelic Underground Eric Gales’ new disc picks up where last year’s Crystal Vision left off. It’s a double-barreled dose of muscular blues-rock riffs, real-deal life stories, and refreshing solos. Classic blues-rock riffage is offset with angular melodies, Beatle-esque harmonies and deep pocket funk. Songs such as “Wake Up Call,” “Someday” and “Someone Else’s Problem” [...]

If you can get past the erroneous claim on the shrinkwrap’s sticker, not to mention Dick Dale’s enormous ego (in evidence in various ways), you’ll be glad you did. Because if you’re not familiar with the self-proclaimed (and unchallenged) King Of Surf Guitar’s early work, wax up your board; you’re in for a hell of [...]

A collection of songs inspired by Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath, this is one of the best albums of the year. Vernon Reid returns to produce (and supply guitar in spots), and the band is truly wonderful, especially Charlie Burnham on fiddle, who supplies sublime, pleasing solos. The funky rock of “Survivors of the Hurricane” [...]

Tribute records are a mixed bag by nature, but Anchored in Love is a wonderful collection of songs dedicated to June Carter Cash, several of them written by the country icon as well. Featuring country, bluegrass, and pop heavyweights like Emmylou Harris, Rosanne Cash, Ralph Stanley, and Patty Loveless, this set was produced by John [...]