For vinyl and CD lovers, this is a reminder of the upcoming Spring edition of Record Store Day on April 20, 2024. Visit your local independent record store and pick up some great new releases from some of your favorite artists or, find new music from artists you've not heard before. 

Here is a PDF of the April 20th releases. Enjoy!

Thanks again for subscribing to my music blog!

Doug

Hear More Music

Discovered this jazz gem yesterday on Instagram just as the Eclipse officially began. Its a winner!

I only recently discovered Carla Bley and her music thanks to a story about her in a music magazine. Sadly she passed away in 2023 and left a lot of recorded music to remember her by. I’ll write more about her at another time but check out her music. Wonderful composer and musician. #jazz #orchestra #music

This past Saturday we decided to go on a road trip to a new, to us, Half Price Books & Music in the Chicago suburbs. After searching the vinyl and CD bins I was thinking I was about to go scoreless until I found this gem in the “M” section. An unused, still sealed We Live Here on CD in mint condition for only $6.99. It sounds every bit as good as I remembered it. This album from Pat Metheny Group is still available in record and CD stores and, also on streaming sites. Check it out, I doubt you’ll be disappointed. Enjoy!

Thanks very much for reading our site. I hope you enjoy it. BTW, if you want to let me know what kind of content you would like to see me write more about please don’t hesitate to leave a reply. - Doug

Before Stevie and Lindsey joined Team Mac the band, fronted by blues guitar wizard Peter Green, was an accomplished blues band. Now there is a hardcover book chronicling these historic sessions with Chicago blues masters joining the band at Chess to record some classic music together. Written by Robert Schaffner, photos by original photographer Jeff Lowenthal. 

This synopsis from the B&N website: A book showcasing the legendary Fleetwood Mac blues session at Chicago’s Chess Studios in January 1969 This book focuses on a crucial moment in the history of one of the most popular bands in music history and its beginnings as a blues band in the late 1960s. It includes many never-before-seen color and black-and-white photos from this legendary session.

• This is the only book to cover this famous and influential 1969 rock/blues album
• Includes photos of Fleetwood Mac guitarists Peter Green, Danny Kirwan, and Jeremy Spencer jamming with Chicago blues-scene legends Willie Dixon, Otis Spann, and Buddy Guy
• Includes Forewords by both producers present at the session: Mike Vernon MBE, and Marshall Chess

High quality images show founding Fleetwood Mac members Peter Green, Danny Kirwan, Jeremy Spencer, Mick Fleetwood, and John McVie with the major Chicago blues musicians - Willie Dixon, Otis Spann, and Buddy Guy – of the time. Also featured throughout the book are recollections by many of Fleetwood Mac’s contemporaries, such as Kim Simmonds, Aynsley Dunbar, and Martin Barre, as well as a new interview with Buddy Guy.

The book is available on Amazon and now it is also available on the Barnes and Noble website and in their stores. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fleetwood-mac-in-chicago-jeff-lowenthal/1141022998?ean=9780764364952

Fleetwood Mac in Chicago 1969 up on the bookshelves at Barnes and Noble!

As always thank you very much for visiting Hear More Music! 

Doug

For those attending AXPONA High-End Audio Expo this year opportunities abound to learn, not just to see and hear. AXPONA's Master Class Theater promises many great opportunities to gain insight into subject matters that many audiophiles and music lovers alike find interesting and of value. Subjects include:

Limiting Factors of Modern True-to-Life Audio Reproduction.

How to choose Ortofon cartridges and Ortofon Phono Cartridge Technology.

(Speaker) Cable length parameters.

Ten Ways to Optimize Music Streaming.

Back to the Future with RTM Tapes.

How does your playback system stack up?

Discoveries and advances in vinyl optimization.

You can see the complete Master Class Theater schedule and register for AXPONA EXPO here -----> https://axpona.com/masterclass/

AXPONA EXPO exhibitor list here -----> https://axpona.com/exhibitors/

With so many manufacturer exhibitors as well as Ear Gear and RecordFair (and CDs) plan on spending at least one whole day or two or...three. 

Bring plenty of money for Record Fair!

#axponaexpo #axpona #music #headphones #speakers #audio #hifi #hearmoremusic

Thanks for reading Hear More Music,

Doug

Keyboardist Sam Fribush is on the frontlines of the Hammond organ revival. His debut release, the SF Organ Trio, was produced by Charlie Hunter and recorded over quarantine in North Carolina. Fribush became a member of Hiss Golden Messenger in 2021. Currently based in Greensboro, NC, Fribush has brought his fonky, soulful vibe home to the town where he was born and raised.

My initial listening notes- Wide stereo image Natural bass drum with a kick! Keyboards nice further back in soundstage mix. Natural guitar work not strident. Big soundstage and imaging!! Not overly compressed. 5 stars. Those keyboards gradually sneak up in the mix. Fun! Toe tapping! Pleasent, solid bass guitar. Wish this EP was a full album! Mix of depth, large soundstage & center image is very balanced. Is that a Hammond B3? Yes it is! Percussion on “Fat Nap” clean and snappy!

The Music 🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵 The Sound 🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵

Hear More Music: Sam Fribush Organ Trio Vol. 1: Riverboat

Check out these on your favorite streaming service. Film music by orchestra and two styles of jazz from Remy Le Boeuf and Pat Metheny. Enjoy! 🎵 #music #jazz #orchestra

I use Apple's Time Machine to back up all of the music that I've purchased, be it off of music CD or legal downloads (Bandcamp.com). If you're like me you own many CDs and downloads so some sort of backup system is necessary in case your computer fails. In my case I use a hard drive which is connected to my Mac.

An aside. Back when we were installing music systems in people's homes it seems that the majority of our clients were Mac users. With that in mind I'm thinking many who are reading this may also be Mac users and in need of a reliable way to back up their Mac. I found two sources that explain how to implement Time Machine on your home system and believe me it is well worth learning about.

Check out this YouTube video for a very good intro to Time Machine and how to set it up ----> 

And...Apple's own user manual on Time Machine backup ---> https://support.apple.com/en-us/104984

If you are a Windows or Chrome user you'll want to learn about how to effectively back them up also. I'm not a user of either so I can't be of much help here.

Thanks much for reading and don't forget to subscribe on the left hand side of this blog.

Doug

#backup #reviewing #apple #mac #bandcamp #youtube

The Spring, 2024 edition of Record Store Day is soon upon us...the day we are forced to visit our local independent record store and sift through the great new special edition releases while taking in the vinyl and CD retail culture. Great times! https://recordstoreday.com/Home

Some of the titles on my long list- 

Kelly Watch The Stars by Air

Chet Baker and Jack Sheldon make sweet vibes on Imperfect Harmony

Count 'em...Five 3" releases by The Beatles, two from George Harrison, one from John Lennon and even a new EP from Ringo Starr entitles "Crooked Boy"

Bill Evans may have the best album title of all...Everyone Digs Bill Evans.

A 50th Anniversary Edition of Elton John's Caribou on double vinyl. 

Another 50th Anniversary set, this one is Sweetheart Of The Rodeo by The Byrds members.

The Birds, The Bees and The Monkees (and the second place album title!) by The Monkees (thank you to Friday Music!)

The Rolling Stones (UK) on ABKCO.

Pharoah Sanders, Harvest Time on Luaka Bop Records.

There is a long list of releases for this Record Store Day and you can see them all on the Record Store Day website. Some releases are regional, some very local and some are national. Below is the complete RSD listing but check with your local independent record store to be sure the titles that you are interested in will be carried locally. Good Times! 

https://recordstoreday.s3.amazonaws.com/2024/2024_RSD_PUBLIC.pdf

There is a trend by audio electronics brands of offering a separate component, a 'streamer'. This component usually has its own display and connects to your home wifi. These component streamers connect to your streaming service of choice (Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, Spotify, etc) and send that music stream onwards ho to your audio receiver, integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier via a cable interconnect. Easy enough...but not always.

An Apple iPad can act in the same fashion as said streamer. Using an Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter* you can connect the iPad to your stereo and stream high-res and standard CD quality sound from your favorite streaming app. I've included some photos to help visually explain how to connect the cable spew.

The white Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter is white and looks like this:

Connect the Adapter into your iPad's lightning port. Then connect a USB A-to-C cable from the Adapter into your amplifier's DAC (digital-to-analog convertor) or, to your own free-standing DAC. In my case I'm using an outboard Modi DAC from Schitt Audio**:

Then connect the Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter to power. Here is a photo of mine connected to an extension cord:

In this configuration AC powers all three, the USB 3 Camera Adapter, the iPad and the Modi DAC***. No need to run separate power supply to the Modi.

Open the App(s) of your choice and stream the music via wifi into the iPad and out into the DAC and your audio amplifier. This also allows you to enjoy and higher resolution music streams if you subscribe to such.

*https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MK0W2AM/A/lightning-to-usb-3-camera-adapter

**https://www.schiit.com/products/modi-plus

***https://www.schiit.com/public/upload/PDF/modi%20plus%20manual.pdf

Good luck and enjoy!

Doug

#ipad #streaming #hirez

American Pie - United Artist Records released in October, 1971 with words and music written by Don McLean and dedicated to Buddy Holly ~ CDP 7 46555 2. 2003 Capitol Records 72435-84279-2-9.

Many music fans have a favorite song or favorite album in which they remember all the lyrics to. They remember when it was first released, where they purchased it from and the impact it made upon them.  For me that song has always been American Pie.

Don McLean had released his first album, Tapestry, in 1970 with little notice.  With a larger record label behind him American Pie (the album) was released in October 1971 and literally shot up the charts based on the strength of the song American Pie.  The song was unique, dealing with loss and years of social upheaval, musical changes, religion and war. (Sounds like current times, doesn't it?) Through the song McLean recalled and honored Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. Richardson (The Big Bopper), musicians that McLean looked up to and had passed away. The song struck a nerve with the American public, most of whom were tired of war, social ills and all the other stressful issues of the day.

In 2003 Capitol Records reissued the album in along with two additional songs and a nice booklet in which McLean describes how he came to write the album as well as his concept of the history of the times in which it was written.  It’s a great addition to anyone’s music library.

Interesting American Pie facts:  At 8:32 it is the longest song to reach #1 on the Billboard music charts.  In 2001 American Pie was voted the #5 Most Memorable Song of the Century.  The original vinyl 45 single, due to the song’s length, had the first half of the song on side one, the second half on side two.  The only way to hear the song in its full length was to buy the vinyl album.

Years ago we attended a wedding and to close out the reception the new bride and groom asked everyone to hold hands and to form a circle around the dance floor.  While we all faced each other they closed the reception by asking everyone to sing American Pie in unison…the full eight minute and thirty two second version.  I belted it out as best I could and I admit it brought serious tears to my eyes. The sound of a room full of people singing that song was such a great experience and one I obviously still remember.  It was so cool to hear everyone, younger and older alike, sing it together.

THAT is what music is all about.

And, I still remembered all of the words. Thank you, Don.

Thanks for reading and listening,

Doug

A giant THANK YOU goes out to all of the recent new subscribers to Hear More Music. It always is nice to know that others share my interests in audio and music.

I've been reading some books about music, a niche audio company and I even opened up an old subwoofer to give you a peak inside. So I'll post some photos hear as a hint of upcoming blog posts in the near future. Thanks again and please check the Upvote feature (Posthaven-speak for "I like it, I really like it") at the bottom of each post.

The real, original Fleetwood Mac. Yes, well before Stevie and Lindsey came aboard!

More than an audio book, Schiit Happened, offers many lessons about starting up a business and the do's and do nots.

That's inside a subwoofer? Crazy.

Headphone gear!

Thanks again,

Doug

Dear subscribers and want-to-be such, if you have been kind enough to subscribe to this audio-related review site we follow up by sending you an email confirmation back to you. We don't send emails to you announcing our latest post until you confirm your subscription. If anyone didn't get the email (it often goes to spam), let me know via this site or directly to me at hearmoremusic@gmail.com. I appreciate all of you who have subscribed so far and hope everyone else who like the content here will subscribe also. Again, make sure to check your spam folder if you have not received an email reminder from us.

Thanks so very much-

Doug 

I've seen advertisements for Spin-Clean in various audio and music magazines for more years than I can remember. I'd notice the bright yellow plastic photo out of the corner of my eye and...turn the page, interested but not enough to explore further. When I first began listening and collecting records I'd clean them with a dry, soft cloth which I found only increases the amount of static electricity and static cling. Pulling the record out of the record sleeve and wiping with a dry cloth only became a magnet for dust. But, we all have to learn somehow.

When I worked in stereo retail we sold Dishwasher record cleaners. I quickly learned that applying a small amount of the magic Discwasher fluid (slyly hidden inside the hand held brush) on one edge of the brush was a much better way of cleaning. The fluid and fine brush hairs seemed to pull dirt, dust and grime from the grooves and an efficient and affordable manner. We sold tons of Discwasher products along with extra fluid. And that little brush, to clean the larger brush!

I finally decided in 2023 that I wanted to try the Spin-Clean. At only $79.00 including fluid, special cleaning cloths, rollers and the basin itself it seemed like an economical way to try a manual record cleaning machine. No, it doesn't plug into the wall. It's an all analog and manual process. The Spin-Clean Kit comes with the basin and basin lid, a pair of adjustable snap-in rollers, 'thick & plush' velvet cleaning brushes, two cotton cloths for drying and a bottle of their secret sauce record washer fluid. You supply the distilled water*. Thanks to the lovely Moneypenney for the wonderful Christmas gift!

Simply fill the basin up to the line with distilled water and pour two caps full of their fluid over the cleaning brushes. Before filling the basin slide the two cleaning brushes and snap in rollers in place. Fill the basin. Then manually place the LP in the water, lined up with the two rollers and in between the two brushes. Manual spin the record three times left and three times right. Done. Pull out the record and (this is where each person may wipe and dry in their own preferred way), I lay the record down on one cotton cloth, hold it into place with one hand while cleaning the LP with your other hand and cloth in a circular motion.

I write this review because I've found that the Spin-Clean is a fantastic, low cost product for cleaning records. Cleaning your old, tired records with a Spin-Clean will bring them back to life, resulting in much better clarity and sound. Will Spin-Clean fix scratches? No, but you'll be amazed at just how the clicks and pops you hear are simply from static electricity, dust and grime. I found the differences to be amazing. Spin-Clean also suggests cleaning your brand new records- during the stamping process there may be some residue left on them before they are inserted into the record sleeve.

All the above said and done, the process can be a bit tedious however the results can be stunning. Clean, shiny black discs brought back from the used bin dead. Dial up some music and spin your old, tired and new vinyl clean.

Extra Spin-Clean fluid, rollers and cleaning rags are available on their website and HINT: only use the Spin-Clean cloth rags. They make a big difference in your results. I found that following their directions in the manual are very important in order to experience the best results.

And by the way. once cleaned consider ridding yourself of the original paper sleeve and replace it with an inner sleeve from Mobile Fidelity for added protection and cleanliness.

Spin-Clean. Made in the USA. Highly recommended.

Spin-Clean https://www.spinclean.com/

Mobile Fidelity Inner Record Sleeves https://www.amazon.com/Mobile-Fidelity-Sound-Inner-Sleeves/dp/B001LQSFKY/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3C2Q4XB6DI4EL&keywords=mobile%2Bfidelity%2Binner%2Bsleeves&qid=1705609084&sprefix=mobile%2Bfidelity%2Caps%2C91&sr=8-3&th=1

*Distilled water...1.40/gallon at my local grocery store.

In the 1920's Louis Armstrong recorded with two groups of jazz musicians. Enter the Hot Fives and, the Hot Sevens. in 2006 Wynton Marsalis recorded many of both jazz groups songs in this live session at the Jazz At Lincoln Center in New York. If you love jazz this is a must listen. Upbeat and slow selections abound with very good sound quality, tone and pace. Aside from streaming on the usual services such as Deezer, Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal and Qobuz, you can download in either (MP3 or WAV formats) from the Jazz At Lincoln Center online store at https://store.jazz.org/collections/music/products/louis-armstrong-s-hot-fives-and-hot-sevens?variant=40659316572245

I've contacted Jazz At Lincoln Center to inquire if these recordings are available on CD or vinyl LP but have not heard back from them as of posting of this review.

Whether you stream or download this music needs listening to. Jazz enthusiasts will surely embrace them and those who are just now exploring jazz as a music medium will be introduced to great music and audiophile-level sound quality (except for the MP3 lossy format).

Edit: The folks at Jazz At Lincoln Center were kind enough to respond to my question about availability of this recording on CD and vinyl LP. Unfortunately they have no other plans to release this on physical media at this time. So, streaming or via download from their website is the only way to enjoy this great recording. -Doug

For some, knowing the reference components used in a reviewers system is important so they may make an informed decision as to the strengths, and weaknesses, of said reviewer's system as a whole and how it may compare to the reader's own system. With that in mind and to keep the reader informed here are the components used in product and music reviews:

Core Electronics:

Schiit Audio Saga+ pre-amplifier

Technics SA-TX200 power amplifier 

Peachtree Audio Decco65 integrated amplifier 

Analog/Vinyl:

U-Turn Orbit turntable with acrylic platter 

Grado Black3 stereo phono cartridge

Audio Technica VM95E phono cartridge 

Schiit Audio Mani phono pre-amplifier 

Digital Components:

Schiit Audio Magni DAC 

Peachtree Audio DAC*IT*X DAC

Rotel RCD-1572Mk2 CD player 

Streamer -  Apple iPad and Deezer HiFi

Music Streaming Source(s):

Deezer HiFi

Loudspeakers:

Peachtree Audio Design 5 stand mount

Cable and Interconnects:

Monster 14 gauge speaker wire (12' lengths) 

Interconnects by Audioquest, Capitol and Rotel

So, what components are you using in your audio system? Feel free to leave your reply in the comments. 

Learn about the authentic and original Japanese jazz cafe in these very informative publications by Katsumasa Kusunose. I ordered directly from their website and received them within two to three weeks. Note: unless you speak and read Japanese please be sure to select the English versions! Recommended reading. 

https://jazzcity.store/

Like many I spent most of 2020 at home. Hunkered down, I listened to more music than ever. Much of that time was spent exploring new music by unfamiliar artists, playing music genres much different from what I would normally listen to. I listened to many of the CDs in my home music library and even delved into those old Boston and Chicago albums that I hadn't heard in ages (seriously, those first six Chicago albums are fantastic). Jazz, classical (I'm a sucker for Mozart) and the Allman Brothers all sounded great. But I wanted, needed something different. I mean really, how many times can one listen to Dark Side Of The Moon? Sacrilege I know but you catch my drift.

Deezer HiFi streaming subscription totally helped my new music needs. Millions of full albums, playlists and EPs at my disposal for the cost of one CD each month. And the sound quality with their HiFi version is full CD quality. If you enjoy finding new and old music I recommend Deezer highly. I can access my Deezer choices through smartphone, tablet, desktop and Sonos at home. Other services such as Qobuz, Tidal, Amazon, Spotify are great ways to enjoy more music than ever before. Choose the one best for your listening needs.

So here are ten recent finds, artists and their albums, that I discovered during Pandemic 2020. Give them a listen and see what you think. Road trip!

Discovered at Stereophile magazine.

Discovered on Facebook.

Discovered on Darko Audio YouTube channel.

This news from Michael Timmins’ Cowboy Junkies!

“Many years ago, in the time before streaming services and back when we'd gather together to make music, Margo ventured down the 401 to Guelph, Ontario and to the home of Jeff Bird. There she spent some time with Jeff and a few of his talented musical friends and recorded songs by some of her favourite artists. This album may have been recorded fifteen years ago, but these songs are timeless.... as is Margo's voice...enjoy.”

This album is only available as a digital download or as a digital stream. It is not available as a CD or on vinyl. You can find it here: 

#Spotify #AppleMusic #AmazonMusic #TIDAL #Deezer #iTunes #Pandora #Napster #music #margotimmins #cowboyjunkies #jeffbird #hearmoremusic 

I’ve been a Doobie Brothers fan since first hearing their third studio album, “The Captain and Me” in 1973.  Their mix of hard-edged guitars with vocal harmonies won me over.  Songs like Natural Thing, Long Train Runnin’, China Grove…well, ALL of them only gave a sneak peak at what was to become a popular hit-making band.

Fast forward to the 2010 edition of the band.  They had their huge hits and concert tours throughout the eighties.  After singer Michael McDonald left the band they continued to tour and record without the success of earlier years.  They brought back their original record producer, friend Ted Templeman, along with original guitarists and vocalists Pat Simmons and Tom Johnston.  After playing a few gigs together they asked former drummer Michael Hossick and master-of-all-stringed-instruments John McFee to reunite for a new Doobies album and tour.

Adding to the fun, Willie Nelson and ex-Doobie Michael McDonald make appearances.  Don’t be fooled however, this is no re-union album with ‘guest artists’ added for filler.  The Doobies of old with their harmonies, timeless rhythms and guitar solos are here.  If you enjoyed this band in the past give them another try here.

A nice twist is the remake of ‘Nobody’ from their first album.  This version has a new guitar solo and spotlights Johnston’s rougher vocal style.   Producer Templeton played up to every band member’s strengths and styles.  The Simmons-Johnston-McFee trio is one of the best front lines in rock while drummer Hossick’s playing is forward and driven.  Templeton did what many of us music purists hope for by not overdriving and overmixing the album.  It sounds equally good on a smaller system or better home audio gear.

Whether you want to relive the Doobie glory years or just want a great rock record give World Gone Crazy a listen. Enjoy.

#listening #hearmoremusic #music #doobiebrothers

Even though these two CD sets were released two years apart, they share a common theme and compliment each other.  On An Island was released as Gilmour’s third solo studio album in 2006, Live In Gdansk in 2008.

Many know David Gilmour as the lead guitarist, vocalist and writer for seminal rock band Pink Floyd.  Gilmour chose to do more solo projects with his interest in continuing to work as a band waned.  Since fellow band mate Richard Wright passed away in 2008 Gilmour continues in this direction.  As On An Island proves he is playing better than ever.

If Pink Floyd fans are disappointed that the band is no longer a functioning unit (for now), have no fear.  On An Island is as close to a Pink Floyd sound as you can get.  Wright plays on the album and the combination of his keyboards musically complements Gilmour’s vocals and guitar, making for a very enjoyable listen.  Topping it off is hearing David Crosby and Graham Nash add background vocals to the title track.

Gilmour's final 2008 live performance was held at the Gdansk Shipyard in Poland celebrating the anniversary of the Polish Solidarity Movement headed by Lech Walesa in 1980.  In addition to four Pink Floyd songs, On An Island is performed live and included on this two-CD set is the selection of A Great Day For Freedom.  50,000 people attended this show to celebrate their freedoms from non-communist trade unions. The Baltic Philharmonic Orchestra is a nice addition to the overall recording. Richard Wright joined Gilmour on this tour and recording before his death. The recording quality and musicianship here are both superb.

Whites Off Earth Now, Mobile Fidelity Remaster

Canadian band Cowboy Junkies released their first album in 1986.  They had no fat record company deal, only their instruments, a garage named Studio 547, a single microphone with a digital tape machine and Margo's voice.  This re-mastered CD version from Mobile Fidelity’s Original Master Recordings series and has been re-released on a hybrid CD/SACD disc.  The audio quality is outstanding.

The Cowboy Junkies tradition of sparse, blues-based songs is fully evident here.  Margo Timmins vocals are quietly expressive on this collection of covers from blues artists as Lightning Hopkins and Robert Johnson and rocker Bruce Springsteen.  Brothers Mike (lead guitar) and Pete Timmins (drums) along with long time friend Alan Anton (bass) complete the foursome. Sparse guitar, bass and drums support her quiet vocal style perfectly.  Example, the the final song, Robert Johnson’s Crossroads. Its so quiet its almost scary.

Since this album was released the Cowboy Junkies have continued to tour and to release many albums.  Some such as The Trinity Session have been ground-breaking albums.  They moved into a bit more mainstream direction with the top-selling Lay It Down but have never left their preference for slower country and blues based tunes.  As many band have experienced though, the Cowboy Junkies broke true new ground with their first album.  This remastered version is a blues and musical masterpiece. 

#cowboyjunkies #hearmoremusic #music

In 1971 a new jazz-rock band burst on the music scene with the top ten hit.  Get It On spent thirteen weeks on the Billboard charts and became a gold selling album, a rare occurrence by jazz-rock acts in the 1970s.

Bill Chase grew up playing the trumpet in school and became a fan of jazz greats Stan Kenton and Maynard Ferguson.  He later played for lead trumpet with Ferguson and Kenton as well as with Woody Herman’s Thundering Herd.

In 1970 Chase joined up with three more additional veteran jazz trumpeters.  The uniqueness of this band is that Chase then mixed this jazz-foursome up with a rock ‘n roll rhythm section of guitar, keyboards bass and percussion.  Once this group was assembled the search for a vocalist began and in late ’70 singer Terry Richards was brought on board.  Chase, the band, was born.

Chase were unique for its time.  Groups in the early ‘70s tended to have either a jazz or rock focus, but this band had both.  With the jazz chops of the four horn players and the hard-charging rock rhythm section they chose a decidedly up beat  rock ‘n roll sound.  Richard’s gravely vocalists gave the jazzy group an edgy sound that complemented the horns and rhythm section. Another rock jazz band at the time, Blood, Sweat & Tears, had a similar focus but tended to have an overall smoother and more mellow sound.

This first album was certainly driven by the hit Get It On but the remainder of side one is made up of songs that were more instrumental and showed off the chops of the various horn players.  Side two of the vinyl album is made up of the fourteen-minute opus ‘Invitation To A River’.  Made up of five chapters, ITAR shows off the trumpet skills of the band.  There are parts of side two in which the jazz section ‘echos’ there notes and sound.  You’d swear they were done by remixing but these sounds were all done live.

Ennea

After selling 500,000 copies of their first album, Bill Chase and the band released two more albums, Ennea and Pure Music.  1972s Ennea shifted away from the horn-heavy sound and featured another suite on side two based on Greek Mythology.  While Ennea sold well it did not meet expectations.

Pure Music

Pure Music kept the spotlight on the same horn section but the backup members changed and a more jazz-focused sound emerged.  Pure Music sold well, supported by both jazz and rock audiences.

The life of Chase was brief both as a person and a band.  In 1974, while traveling to a live performance, Bill Chase, band members and some friends were killed in a plane crash in Minnesota. 

As time marches on I find myself revisiting classic artist’s albums.

This first one is classic 1960s British Invasion.  “The British Are Coming” is a nicely packaged 3-CD box set of A and B-side classics from the mid-60s era.  There are some classic hits here by bands such as the Hollies, Kinks and Searchers but the real fun is found in unheard treasures from these less known British garage bands.

Aside from loving the music from this era, I enjoy the ‘sound’ of these songs.  Each recording engineer and studio had a certain vibe to it and that feeling was transmitted into these records, known as ‘that 60s sound’.  Back then many songs were recorded in one take and the immediacy of the moment translates into the music.  A very enjoyable box set complete with background booklets on each band.

"Chicago At Carnegie Hall" was Chicago’s fourth album.  Their first three albums were all two record releases…most bands have nothing to say after their first!  In 1972 Chicago played at Carnegie Hall and released the show as a live four album set.  This set released by Rhino Records in 2005 is on three CDs and contains a bonus CD with eight previously unreleased songs from that concert.  All loving re-mastered and released in original artwork and mastering by the folks at Rhino Records.

Many think of Chicago as Top 40 hit makers.  True, the band did have many hit records but his set helps one to realize just what a talented group of musicians they were.  Chicago was always eager to play extended versions of their songs and this set is full of jam-band cuts.  This set shows Chicago at their absolute live best.  Enjoy.

Band Of Joy by Robert Plant

Robert Plant’s ‘Band Of Joy’ album is inspired from the name of the first band he played in.  His main goal with this selection of songs was to recreate the musical styles he loved in the mid-60s.  This collection of folk, blues, celtic and rock tunes harkens back to his musical roots very effectively with production values that give it that ‘60s vibe while still sounding current and fresh. The Band Of Joy from the '60s and '70s included John Bonham, later a fellow band member of Led Zepplin, and Dave Pegg who later would be a member of Fairport Convention and Jethro Tull.

In this version of Band Of Joy Plant is joined by Patti Griffin on guitar and backing vocals, Byron House on bass, Darrell Scott plays acoustic guitars along with mandolin, pedal steel guitar. Mark Giovinno on drums and percussion along with Buddy Miller on guitars round out the band.

Band Of Joy starts off with an up-tempo groove and rumbling guitar work on ‘Angel Dance’.  The album is made up of twelve roots-based songs with it’s country-rock, bluesy and lo-fi sound.  Silver Rider is a nice slow rocker and pop rocker You Can't Find My Love could have been written in the 1960s. It all comes together with a cohesive, raw sound.

Since leaving Led Zeppelin, Plant has carved a unique place in music.  He has repeatedly released albums that are unique from one release to the next.  His three albums Mighty ReArranger, Raising Sand (with Alison Krause) and Band Of Joy showcase his versatility as an artist.

What I like about each Robert Plant album is that you never know what you are going to get.  Each release is unique and an adventure.  He easily could have continued his hard-rock career as a rock god but chose a much more interesting path.  His voice has only improved as he has aged and is much more expressive and emotional now than ever before.

Band Of Joy is a worthy addition to any music collection.

#music #hearmoremusic

Yes

Keys To Ascension & Keys To Ascension 2

As the liner notes from Keys To Ascension state this is the classic and quintessential Yes line-up playing live.  As many Yes fans unhappily realize, making the seemingly easy task of simply playing music together was nothing short of a miracle for this original group of independent and at times disagreeable band members.

Many only know Yes music from their classic ‘Roundabout’.  Their millions of fans worldwide have longed been plagued with uneven shows, hit-and-miss albums and numerous personnel changes over the years.  Maybe that is what makes recordings like these so special…the entire original band back together again playing early classic songs, live for the fans.

Formed in 1968 London, Yes became the leading progressive rock band ever.  They have had so many band member changes over the years that one needs a spreadsheet to keep everyone’s timeline connected.  In 1996 the original band of Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire, Rick Wakeman and Alan White reunited to play a live 1996 show in San Luis Obispo, CA for eager fans.  The show was recorded and partially released as the two-CD Keys To Ascension.

In 1997 Keys To Ascension 2 was released as a companion two-disc set.

As confusing as their legendary line-up changes, KTA has seven songs from the concert plus two studio cuts.  KTA2 has the remaining six live cuts plus 5 new studio songs.  Confused?

 However the music is anything but confused, Yes shines when playing live.  Many bands use sound effects to great advantage but Yes showcases their musicianship and talent.  Side One of KTA is especially amazing when you realize everything you hear is being played and song by the six band members on stage.  If you want a live version of the ‘classic’ Yes lineup pick up these two sets double CD sets.

Doug Campbell

It's interesting to look back and review what I was listening to ten years ago. Below I have reposted the Hear & Now column published in the January 5 Rockford Register Star newspaper. While I enjoy many other styles and artists ten years later I still listen to these personal gems. 

In addition to the music that I listen to now the way in which I listen has also changed. I listen much more frequently on my two channel stereo system. I also listen to my iTunes library while on the Mac computer. We also now have a full house Sonos system so we can enjoy music in all the rooms of the house. And, in addition to listening to CDs and iTunes as I did in my column ten years ago I also now stream music using high quality services such as Deezer. I store our CD collection on a 2TB hard drive, listen to vinyl on a new turntable from UTurn Audio and even listen to music via YouTube. So many choices. 

All of these choices plus my renewed interest in my two channel stereo in my dedicated music room has enhanced my interest in listening to music and the fun of discovering new music and artists.

Have a read below. I'll have to post my top 10 most listened to from 2020 next January for comparison.

Doug Campbell 

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Hear & Now

January 5, 2011

Most Listened To Albums of 2010

This isn’t a ‘Best Albums of 2010’ list. Instead of listing what I think are the best albums of last year, I thought I would share the albums that I listened to most frequently throughout 2010, regardless of release date. In no particular order...

Margo Timmins – The Ty Tyrfu Sessions.  Why this isn't released as a quality download or on CD and vinyl is beyond me. http://www.jeffbird.com/margotytyrfu.html9.

Mark Knopfler – Screenplaying.  Known as both a solo artist and with Dire Straits, Knopfler is also an accomplished movie soundtrack musician.

Madonna – Confessions On A Dance Floor.  My guilty pleasure.  Great disc for running on the treadmill.

Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass – Lost Treasures. An early influence on me. Lost Treasures proves he could have released even more great albums back in their heyday.

The Fireman – Strawberrys Oceans Ships Forest. The cute Beatle and artist Youth remain inventive and experimental together.

Thomas Crown Affair soundtrack – Bill Conti’s soundtrack of this classic movie remake is every bit as enjoyable as the movie itself.

Cheap Trick – The Latest.  As I said in my original RRS review, the band just keeps getting better.  Stay away if you don’t like to rock.

Bourne Supremacy soundtrack – Movie soundtrack by John Powell is every bit as powerful as the movie itself.

The Raveonettes - In And Out Of Control.  Guitar twang and noise along with this duo’s harmonies make this a fun, noisy rocker.

The Orb and David Gilmour Metallic Spheres.  Moody, eclectic and mellow.  Perfect for that snowy Saturday at home.

I enjoy music while on the computer, on my iPod and on the CD player.  Regardless of how you listen to your music try out a few of the albums listed above.  Enjoy!