Saturday, December 31, 2022

More Favorite Albums of 2022 - Best of the Rest, Surprises, Disappointments


Here are some more of my favorite albums of 2022  - those that did not make my top 25

So many quality albums in 2022, many more than the top 25 I posted recently. These are all good to very good albums, but may have some issues (inconsistent, some not very good tracks, etc), that kept them from the very top spots. Thus, I am dubbing these the 'quite good, but not quite great' albums. These are not ranked, but just listed in alphabetical order, but separated into Prog and Non-Prog categories

Quite Good, but not Quite Great

Prog-related
Birth - Born
Ben Craven - Monsters of the Id
The Flower Kings - By Royal Decree
Gandalf's Fist - Widdershins
Glass Hammer - At the Gate
Kaipa - Urskog
Anthony Kalugin - Rebirth
Karfagen - Land of Green and Gold
King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard - Changes
Lobate Scarp - You Have it All
Magenta - White Witch Trilogy
Manticore - Elements
Marillion - An Hour Before Its Dark
Mars Volta - Mars Volta
Naxatras - IV
Alan Parsons - For the New World
Tiger Moth Tales - A Song for Spring
Devin Townshend - Lightwork
Yesterdays - Saint-Exupery alma
WIZRD - Seasons

Indie/Alt. Pop/Rock, etc.
And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead - XI Bleed Here Now
Alvvays - Blue Rev
Animal Collective - Time Skiffs
The Beths - Expert in a Dying Field
Big Thief - Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You
Built To Spill - When the Wind Forgets Your Name
Everything Everything - Raw Data Feel
Kiwi Jr. - Chopper
Wilco - Cruel Country
Wet Leg - Wet leg
Weyes Blood - And in the Darkness, Hearts Aglow
Sobs - Air Guitar
Tears for Fears - The Tipping Point
 
For me, the biggest surprises were the discovery of the bands Kaprekar's Constant and Cloud Cult, and just how great their albums were. Also, the resurgence of Dawes, and the brilliance of the Von Hertzen Brothers and Elder's new albums. Just fantastic.

But, as fine as the year was, there were undoubtedly some disappointments along the way. These are a few albums that were most disappointing to me, in that I was expecting more from them.
Disappointments
Most disappointing:
The Smile - A Light For Attracting Attention
Although many have praised this album from this side project from Radiohead's Thom Yorke and Johnny Greenwood, I found it tedious and dull, that is when it wasn't plain annoying. A couple good tracks, but overall pretty lame and unpleasant.
A couple others that were somewhat disappointing, still decent/pretty good, but underwhelming and not what they could have been:
Jethro Tull - The Zealot Gene
Porcupine Tree - Closure/Continuation

And Lastly, although I usually try to stay positive and not dwell on negatives and the stuff I do not like (because everyone has different tastes, and although I may not like a particular artist, many others may derive much enjoyment from them), but there were a couple of albums that have been highly acclaimed and mentioned on many best of lists, that I thought were terrible and I just don't get at all. So, here is a special category.
Worst albums to be highly acclaimed and placed on many best of lists:
Black Country, New Road - Ants From Up There
Black Midi - Hellfire 
To me these are almost unlistenable, yet are adored by many. Both are considered to be in the 'post-rock' realm, and if this is what post-rock is, count me out. It's odd though, because both bands are obviously very talented musicians, and musically are solid (Black Country New Road also features interesting and unusual instrumentation), but the 'songs' are mostly terrible, and the vocals are just awful throughout. Sorry, but to me, this is just pretentious art-school nonsense.
 
OK, so that's about it. So many great albums and songs this year, with just a few negatives. Let me know what you thought about the music of 2022.
 
I may still do a post on the best songs of 2022, if I have time. Looking forward to a great 2023 as well.
Anyway, Have a Happy New Year, and see you in 2023                                         


Thursday, December 29, 2022

Favorite Albums of the Year - 2022 - Top 25


Top 25 Favorite Albums of 2022

Yes! It is that time of year, that is, the end of the year, so time once again to go through some of my favorite albums for the year 2022. And it was actually a pretty great year for music. I listened to a lot more new music than usual this year, and so many new and different bands and artists that I previously had never heard of or knew anything about. So, it was a big year for discovering new stuff. I do have to say, however, that the vast majority of what I listened to this year was in the overall realm of progressive rock and the whole special niche of that community. but even within that there is a wide variety of different styles and sounds. So, if you are not into that 'scene' at all, you probably will not recognize most of my entries, but they are all really good. I listened to a lot of other stuff as well, but the Prog was what I came back to most often. But no matter what your core area of music you listen to (and there are so many sub-groups and sub-genres these days that highlight very specific interests), there was some great stuff that came out this year. There were so many high quality albums I listened to this year that I had to split them up, so here today are my top 25, but I will also have another post later with another 25-30 albums that are all well worth your time to listen to, as well as some other end of year aspects, such as disappointments, surprises and some not-so-great albums. 

Once again, this list represents my own personal favorites, what I enjoyed the most this year, and not any other ranking or quality criteria.  For #25 to #18, I will just list the albums without additional comments (as I just didn't have time to add comments, maybe I'll add some later), but for the top 17 I have a few very brief comments, with more comments for the top 10.

25. The Tangent - Songs From the Hard Shoulder
24. Evership - The Uncrowned King, Part 2
23. Galahad - The Last Great Adventurer
22. Arena - The Theory of Molecular Inheritance
21. D'Virgilio, Morse, and Jennings - Troika 
20. Comedy of Errors - Time Machine
19. Returned to Earth - The Fall of the Watcher
18. Rosalie Cunningham - Two-Piece Puzzle
17. Toehider - I Have Little to No Memory of These Memories (Fun, entertaining roller coaster ride through many genres and styles in this single 47 min. track. Buckle up, hang on, and just enjoy the ride)
16. Phoenix Again - Visions (This band handily pulls off the very difficult feat of making an all instrumental prog album that stays fresh, enticing, and interesting through the entire album)
15. David Longdon - Door One (Wonderful, dynamic album, full of great songs and great production along with the great vocals from David. Sometimes rockin', sometimes proggy, sometimes introspective, always melodic. A major achievement, but bittersweet, as this is also the last album we will get from David, RIP.)
14. Dim Gray - Firmament (Wonderful melodic, atmospheric soundscapes)
13. Elvis Costello - A Boy Named If (Best from Elvis in many years, great songs from this master)
12. Time Dwellers - Novum Aurora (Great prog rock, blend of '70's rock with prog elements - Sometimes sounds like cross between Wishbone Ash and Mike Oldfield)
11. JPL - Sapiens Chap 3/3 Actum (Great jazzy prog, concluding chapter to epic 3 album series)

10. Elder - Innate Passage
A very recent addition, as I only heard this for the first time about a week ago, but it is sensational! Also one of the biggest surprises for me, as I totally did not expect this album. Although I had not heard any of this band's previous albums, I was aware of their overall reputation (at least for their early albums), as playing 'stoner metal', a mixture of psychedelic and metal, and quite heavy, which is not my thing at all (pretty much anything that has 'metal' in its description is just not for me. But this was not that at all. This album is a fantastic progressive rock album, hard-rockin' at times, but also very intricate and even delicate, with lush soundscapes and immersive atmosphere. And yes, quite melodic as well. Just a stunning album of great extended tracks that rocks, rolls, comforts, and delights, with intriguing and enigmatic riffs and moods. A brilliant album that I'm sure will rise even higher as I listen to it more (as I've only had time to hear it 2-3 times so far). Best Tracks: Catastasis,  Coalescence, The Purpose, Merged in Dreams-Ne Plus Ultra. 

9. Ryo Okumoto - Myth of the Mostrophus

Reviewed previously here. This album from the long-time keyboard player for Spock's Beard, with the help of many of his present and former Spock's Beard bandmates (including Nick d'Virgilio, Dave Meros, Ted Leonard, Alan Morse, etc.) and other special guest artists, is more than just a great Spock's Beard-related album. Although ostensibly a solo album, it has much more of a fully fleshed out band feel throughout, as the sound is not dominated by Ryo's keyboards as one might expect, but with active and key contributions from all musicians involved, with prominent and soaring guitar solos, stunning arrangements, and excellent vocals and harmonies. Everything here is just top-notch and exquisitely done throughout, with great songwriting, vocals, musicianship and execution. Overall, a very fun and entertaining album of classic symphonic prog rock gems, highlighted by the epic-length 'Myth of the Mostrophus', a fun Monster story.  Best Tracks: Myth of the Mostrophus, Mirror Mirror, Chrysalis. 

8. Von Hertzen Brothers - Red Alert in the Blue Forest
Another very recent, and surprising addition, as this gets better and better with repeated listens. This is the 8th album from Finland's Von Hertzen Brothers, three brothers (Mikko, Kie, and Jonne) that play guitars and bass and all sing (beautifully), joined by keyboardist Robert Engstrand and drummer Sami Kuoppamäki. Although I was not familiar with their previous albums, I was mightily impressed with this one.  They have put together a fantastic album of dynamic and  and accessible progressive rock, expertly mixing in gentle acoustic and vocal harmony tracks and sections with powerful rockin' sections, all while maintaining a strong melodic sensibility throughout. Wonderful melodies, vocals, folk and pop elements, lyrical content, and musical and instrumental artistry. A stunning album, eclectic and daring in its scope and ambition, featuring a range of moods and styles, yet rooted in melody and atmosphere. Best tracks: All of a Sudden You're Gone, Peace Patrol, Day of Reckoning, Anil, Northen Lights, Dissappear There.

 

7. Big Big Train - Welcome to the Planet
Reviewed previously here. Big Big Train’s follow-up to their stellar 2021 album, Common Ground, continues their run of wonderful albums, with another collection of great songs. Although it can’t quite match the heights of the previous album (which was my pick for best album of 2021), it is still a great album. The band continues growing and developing during a period of transition and changeover in personnel, exploring and moving in some new directions, and getting contributions from various band members. Both of the songs written by drummer Nick D’Virgilio (‘Connection Plan’ and the dynamic instrumental ‘Bats in the Belfry’) are excellent and quite different from previous Big Big Train songs (including an extended drum solo). The first half of the album shines the brightest, with ‘Connection Plan’, the grand and sumptuous ‘Lanterna’, the sparse and beautiful ballad ‘Capitoline Venus’ (featuring perhaps the best vocal performance from David Longdon), and the atmospheric instrumental ‘A Room with No Ceiling’. A great album overall. However, it is also bittersweet hearing the wonderful vocals of David Longdon on this album. Great that we get these new songs from him, after his tragic death late last year, but sad that we will not hear his voice or his other contributions on future Big Big Train albums.

6. Jonas Lindberg and The Other Side - Miles From Nowhere
Reviewed previously here. This is the 2nd album from this Swedish prog rock band. They have a delightful mix of catchy pop melodies and vocal harmonies interspersed with extended progressive passages and intriguing instrumental sections. Jonas plays many of the instruments himself, from bass, guitar, keyboards, and vocals, but with able assistance from the rest of the band, especially the impeccable lead and backing vocals shared by Jonas Sundqvist and Jenny Storm. The expansive album provides over 75 minutes of music, with several extended length tracks, capped off with the epic multi-part album-closing title track (over 25 min. long). The more I listened to this, the more I liked it, and although the major influences are clear and present throughout, emulating the style and structure of music provided by Neal Morse and his various bands (Spock’s Beard, Transatlantic, Neal Morse Band) and The Flower Kings, among others, the music is so good, it transcends such comparisons. Best Tracks: 'Miles From Nowhere', 'Summer Queen', 'Astral Journey', 'Why I’m Here'.

5. Pattern-Seeking Animals - Only Passing Through
Previously reviewed here. This offshoot from Spock's Beard , with their third album, has produced a remarkable album of great, accessible progressive rock. They incorporate a lot of pop and power pop sensibilities in establishing great hooks, melodies, and vocals, but also mix in good bits of jazz, folk, classical, and film score prowess, but also never abandon their eclectic Prog approach (with plenty of odd-time curves and proggy instrumental breakouts). Great stuff throughout, with very imaginative and inventive songs and arrangements. They put in whatever extra instrumentation and arrangement flourishes that will enhance each song (horns, mandolin, sitar, bassoon, violin, cello, specialty percussion). From the very opening notes of ‘Everdark Mountain’, I was hooked, with its unique dark woodland prog sound, and it just takes off from there.  Best Tracks: 'Time Has a Way', 'Everdark Mountain', 'Much Ado', 'I Can’t Stay Here Anymore'. 

4. Dawes - Misadventures of Doomscroller
Previously reviewed here. With this newest album, their previous folk-country roots are barely evident, as the band stretches out with longer songs,  a free-er looser style, with more jazz influences as well as some somewhat progressive rock-influenced instrumental breaks. The result is, at least for me, their best album to date, a wonderful musical journey through the ups and downs of contemporary life. The core of the band has always been Taylor Goldsmith's songwriting and vocals, and he shines throughout once again, but with the rest of the band also taking more of the spotlight as well with great musicianship and song arrangements. And the instrumental extensions are more than just solos, as they represent dynamic explorations of new styles and themes, and move in different and interesting (even proggy?) directions. The album is a delight from beginning to end, offering great melodies and engaging arrangements, and encouraging many repeat listens. Best tracks: Ghost in the Machine, It Comes in Waves, Everything is Permanent.  

3. The Dear Hunter - Antimai
Reviewed previously here. Great album from The Dear Hunter, a fun ride through this ringed society. It is predominantly lively, upbeat, and quite accessible. They incorporate much soul, R&B, latin, pop, jazz, and rock into the mix, with liberal use of funky horns and tuned percussion, yet the result is still undeniably prog rock. This is a concept album that chronicles a world where society is set-up in concentric rings, with the outer rings occupied by the poor and industrial sectors moving inward to the more luxurious and powerful inner rings. The album consists of 8 tracks, each corresponding to one of the rings and highlighting features of that sector. But you don't need to know or care about the concept or story to enjoy the album, as it is quite wonderful from start to finish. The album flows well and all the tracks are very well done, featuring a variety of vibrant styles, dynamics, and instrumentation, in addition to very fine vocals. Best tracks: Ring 8 - Poverty, Ring 5 - Middle Class, Ring 4 - Patrol, Ring 3 - Luxury. 

2. Cloud Cult  - Metamorphosis 
A surprising recent addition. I would call this music something like Symphonic Folk, and it is wonderful. Cloud Cult is a band from St.Cloud MN, has been around since 1995, but I had never heard of them until about a month ago. I heard one song ('One Way Out of a Hole)' from this album and was hooked. It totally grabbed me and I became obsessed with this song (It is my song of he Year). Then I listened to the rest of the album and the whole album is great as well. They have a basic folky, stripped down sound and vibe, but then they develop their songs with interesting arrangements featuring strings, dramatic builds, and emotional intensity, as well as inspiring lyrics and vocals. Would've been the find of the year for me, except for #1

1. Kaprekar's Constant - The Murder Wall
Previously reviewed here. This was my favorite album earlier in the year, and quite surprisingly, this masterpiece retained its status right through to the end. The music has been described as ‘symphonic melodic progressive rock’ that features beautiful melodies, grand themes, lush arrangements, and great vocals, in addition to a passion for history and storytelling. This is a concept album with all the songs dealing with stories about various attempts (both successful and unsuccessful) by mountaineers to scale the North Face of The Eiger Mountain, known as the Murder Wall, due to all those that have lost their lives on it. Although this may sound like a very dark theme, the music is anything but dreary, filled with beauty from simple melodies to majestic anthems. There just wasn't anything else that could quite match the beauty, majesty, elegance, and sheer wondrousness of this album for me. The melodies, the vocals, the arrangements, the stories, the production, just wonderful. I kept going back to it, expecting it to lose some of its luster with repeated listenings, but each time it reinforced just how magnificent it was. And this was surprising, because its not really rock, it's not very proggy, its just great from start to finish, and despite all odds, this remains my favorite album of the year. Just thoroughly captivating.

Coming next: More really good albums from 2022, and other end of year stuff.

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

Merry Christmas 2022! Reminder of all the Christmas and Holiday Music Available Here

 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!

Yes, it's almost Christmas. In the mood for Christmas music? Or maybe you need some Christmas music to try to get you in the mood for Christmas. Hopefully you have already checked out my all-new Christmas Collection for 2022. If not, here's another chance. Or if you have gotten that and want some more, there is a whole lot more Christmas, Holiday, and Winter themed music and shows available here, including all my previous unique Christmas-related collections. So, if you haven't already gotten all my previous delightful and eclectic Christmas collections, I invite you to do so now (links to those pages below). In addition, there are several other Christmas-related shows and compilations that have been posted previously. To see all the Christmas-related posts check here. As I've said before, personally, I love Christmas music of all types, classical, rock, pop, jazz, etc., from the traditional to the outrageous, the serious to the silly, the classics to the newest ditties, and these compilations contain some of my favorites. Enjoy the season while it lasts. 

BB Chronicles Collections:

 
 


BB's Christmas Collection 2018 - New, Old, and Revived


BB's Chronicles Christmas Collections 2016 (featuring 2 full collections - Bright and Blue)


BB's Christmas Chronicle 2014 - Tiny Tree Christmas


BB Chronicles Holiday Sampler 2012 - No Rest for Ye Merry Gentlemen


BB Chronicles Echlectic Christmas Chollection 2010


Other Christmas posts:

Aimee Mann and Ted Leo Christmas Shows: 2014 - Boston ; 2015 - Boston ; 2019 - Los Angeles

A Celtic Christmas Sojourn - 2015-Boston

Nick Lowe and Los Straitjackets - Nick Lowe’s Quality Holiday Review - 2015-Los Angeles

Bruce Springsteen Live Christmas compilations

Chicago - 1998 Christmas show

Bill Kirchen's Honky Tonk Holiday Party - 2010 - Northampton, MA 

Enjoy some festive Holiday music!.

Coming: Next week I'll try to start my look back at the best and the rest of 2022 - My Favorite and not so favorite albums of the year (Still checking more music out and formulating my list, but hope to be able to post next week). A very strong year for quality music. 

Sunday, December 11, 2022

BB Chronicles Christmas Compilation - Various Artists - 2022 Collection

BB Chronicles Christmas Compilation

2022 Collection
Various Artists
Mp3@320kbps

Here it is! My Biannual compilation of cool Winter, Holiday, and Christmas Music, all new for 2022 (my 8th Christmas compilation!). Once again, here is an eclectic selection of mostly modern Christmas music. There are a few well-known names represented, such as James Taylor and Norah Jones from their new Christmas albums, R.E.M, Goo Goo Dolls, NRBQ, etc., but most of the artists are relative unknowns doing original songs, representing rock, power pop, folk, and other genres. Progressive rock is also here, represented by Big Big Train and IQ. Not many traditional songs or carols this time, but overall, I think it's another pretty great collection, a very enjoyable listen. Once again, these have been compiled from other available albums, collections and compilations by others (Much Thanks to them!) to make my own unique mixture. And this year there is a special bonus track at the end, a BB Chronicles World Premiere Exclusive song and recording, a little Christmas ditty written many years ago, but never performed, played, or recorded anywhere ever before, an exclusive home recording only available here.
So, Merry Christmas all! Check out the new collection, and don't forget about all my Christmas compilations from previous years, if you have not yet checked them out. Enjoy the holiday season with festive holiday music.

Tracklist: #. Title - Artist
01. It's Christmastime - The Empty Hearts
02. Gonna Be Christmas - The Weeklings
03. Up All Night - The Yule Log
04. It's Almost Christmas Day - Dave Philp
05. Star-Crossed Christmas - Barnaby Bright
06. Winter Song - Trip Wire
07. It's Christmas Time - The Pengwins
08. Christmas Calling (Jolly Jones) - Norah Jones
09. Mid Winter - Magna Carta
10. Christmas Wish - NRBQ
11. Duke's Christmas - Duke Robillard
12. This Is Christmas - Goo Goo Dolls
13. Warm, Lovin' Christmastime - Rob Bonfiglio
14. Wrap Yourself In Christmas Eve - Pop Co-Op
15. Merry Christmas - Big Big Train
16. Before Christmas - The Nines
17. Christmastime With You - The Cheapskates
18. Merry Xmas Everybody - R.E.M
19. Christmas Morning  Nick Piunti & The Complicated Men
20. Jingle Bells (One horse open sleigh) - James Taylor
21. Christmas Glow - Norah Jones
22. Wintertell - IQ
23. The First Chill of Winter - Boo Hewerdine & Darden Smith
24. Auld Lang Syne - Peter Rowan, Bill Keith & Jim Rooney
Bonus Track: a BB Chronicles World Premiere Exclusive Song (never heard anywhere before)
25. Christmas Carolyn - Bob Larkin (Original Home Recording) 

 BB Chronicles 2022 Christmas Collection.rar

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

Various Artists (Foo Fighters and Special Guests) - Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert - 2022-09-03 - Wembley Stadium, London, UK

Foo Fighters with Various friends and guest artists

Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert
2022-09-03
Live at Wembley Stadium, London, UK
Broadcast recording (from HDTV broadcast), very good quality
Mp3 @320 kbps

An All-Star Tribute Concert for Taylor Hawkins, drummer for Foo Fighters, as notable musicians came together with the Foo Fighters and Hawkins family to celebrate the life, music and love of their husband, father, brother and bandmate with The Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concerts.

As one of the most respected and beloved figures in modern music, Taylor’s monolithic talent and magnetic personality endeared him to millions of fans, peers, friends and fellow musical legends the world over. Millions mourned his untimely passing on March 25, 2022 with passionate and sincere tributes coming from fans as well as musicians Taylor idolized. [Hawkins was 50 and died while on tour in Colombia, no cause of death was given, but multiple drugs were found in his system.]

Taylor Hawkins was with the Foo Fighters for over 20 years and 10 albums. Prior to the Foo Fighters, Hawkins played in Alanis Morisette's band, as well as other bands. He also had his own side project band, Taylor Hawkins and the Coattail Riders, which had 3 albums of their own. Taylor joined Foo Fighters in 1997, first appearing with the band on the tour supporting sophomore album The Colour & The Shape. He made his recorded debut with Foo Fighters with 1999’s There Is Nothing Left To Lose, playing on every subsequent FF album, including One By One, In Your Honor (the first FF album to feature him assuming lead vocal duties on his song “Cold Day In The Sun”), Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace, Wasting Light, Sonic Highways, Concrete & Gold (also featuring him as lead singer on “Sunday Rain”) and Medicine at Midnight.

Acts playing at this tribute concert include Foo Fighters, Liam Gallagher, Nile Rodgers, Chevy Metal, Justin Hawkins, Wolfgang Van Halen, Supergrass, Them Crooked Vultures, The Pretenders, Joe Walsh and The James Gang, Lars Ulrich, Stewart Copeland, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush, Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen and Paul McCartney.

An additional tribute concert featuring many of the same guest artists (and a few different ones) was also played a few weeks later (9/27/22) in Los Angeles, CA. Presented here is the full London concert.
Files obtained from BigOWorldwide.


Tracklist:
Liam Gallagher with Foo Fighters
Track 101. Rock ‘n’ Roll Star/Live Forever 15:00
Track 101b. Alternate Intro 11:40
Nile Rodgers, Chris Chaney and Omar Hakim
Track 102. Let’s Dance (with Josh Homme) 4:48
Track 103. Modern Love (with Gaz Coombes) 6:57
Chevy Metal
Track 104. Psycho Killer 8:25
Track 105. Children Of The Revolution (with Kesha) 4:11
Justin Hawkins, Josh Freese and The Coattail Riders
Track 106. Louise 3:51
Track 107. Range Rover Bitch 3:37
Track 108. It’s Over 4:45
Wolfgang Van Halen, Dave Grohl, Justin Hawkins and Josh Freese
Track 109. On Fire 4:59
Track 110. Hot For Teacher 6:43
75 mins

Violet Grohl, Dave Grohl, Alain Johannes, Chris Chaney, Greg Kurstin and Jason Falkner
Track 201. Last Goodbye 8:51
Track 202. Grace 9:26
Supergrass
Track 203. Richard III 7:17
Track 204. Alright 3:34
Track 205. Caught By The Fuzz 6:44
Them Crooked Vultures
Track 206. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road 4:58
Track 207. Gunman 6:34
Track 208. Long Slow Goodbye 6:46
55 mins

Pretenders with Dave Grohl
Track 301. Precious/Tattooed Love Boys 8:17
Track 302. Brass In Pocket 8:48
James Gang
Track 303. Walk Away 9:38
Track 304. The Bomber: Closet Queen / Bolero / Cast Your Fate To The Wind 8:26
Track 305. Funk #49 (with Dave Grohl) 5:51
Violet Grohl, Mark Ronson, Chris Chaney and Jason Falkner
Track 306. Valerie 13:17
Brian Johnson, Lars Ulrich and Foo Fighters
Track 307. Back In Black 9:29
Track 308. Let There Be Rock 8:54
73 mins

Stewart Copeland and Foo Fighters
Track 401. Next To You 4:27
Track 402. Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic 6:44
Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush
Track 403. 2112 Part 1: Overture (with Dave Grohl)/Working Man (with Dave Grohl) 13:13
Track 404. YYZ (with Omar Hakim) 10:27
Brian May, Roger Taylor, Rufus Taylor and Foo Fighters
Track 405. We Will Rock You (with Luke Spiller) 6:40
Track 406. I’m In Love With My Car 3:49
Track 407. Under Pressure (with Justin Hawkins) 4:31
Track 408. Somebody To Love (with Sam Ryder)/Love Of My Life 13:53
64 mins

Foo Fighters

Track 501. Times Like These (with Josh Freese) 11:27
Track 502. All My Life (with Josh Freese) 4:35
Track 503. The Pretender (with Travis Barker) 7:11
Track 504. Monkey Wrench (with Travis Barker) 4:41
Track 505. Learn To Fly (with Nadi Bushell) 6:47
Track 506. These Days (with Rufus Taylor) 7:14
Track 507. Best Of You (with Rufus Taylor) 8:32
51 mins

Paul McCartney, Chrissie Hynde, Dave Grohl, Omar Hakim and Pat Smear
Track 601. Oh! Darling 6:50
Track 602. Helter Skelter 4:53
Foo Fighters
Track 603. Aurora (with Omar Hakim) 9:24
Track 604. My Hero (with Shane Hawkins) 6:12
Track 605. Everlong 10:32
38 mins

Various Artists_Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert_2022-09-03_London.part1.rar
Various Artists_Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert_2022-09-03_London.part2.rar

 

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

The Acoustic Guitar Album - A BB Chronicles Compilation - Great Acoustic Guitar Songs

The Acoustic Guitar Album 
A BB Chronicles Compilation of Some of the Very Best Acoustic Guitar Songs Ever Recorded
Various Artists
Mp3 @ 320 kbps

The Acoustic Guitar, ubiquitous throughout popular music, from the most basic folk songs to the speed and complexities of classical stylings. The melodious, resonant, natural tones emanating from its hollow body, ranging from the mellowest of sounds to the fast staccato fury of flamenco and related styles. A crucial component of rock music, yet constantly overshadowed by the flash and power of the electric guitar. Yet all the great rock bands, from The Beatles to the Who to Led Zeppelin and all the great progressive rock bands, recognized the importance of the acoustic guitar and used it most effectively, for dynamic contrast, to set the mood, to illustrate beautiful melodies, and just for artistic elegance. So, today we honor the humble acoustic guitar, and its magnificent place in rock music. Here, I have assembled some of the best, most impressive songs prominently featuring acoustic guitar that I know. These range from very familiar songs by the Beatles, Neil Young, Jethro Tull, Fleetwood Mac, Heart, etc., to less well-known gems from Big Star, The Grays, and others. There are mostly songs with vocals here, but also several solo instrumental pieces from guitar virtuosos Leo Kottke, Steve Hackett, Steve Howe, Anthony Phillips, Jimmy Page, and the guitar trio of Paco de Lucia, Al Di Meola & John McLaughlin, as well as many different styles, showing the range of sounds and influences of the best of acoustic guitar songs. Known for its sonorous mellow tones, but the acoustic guitar can also rock pretty hard as well. This collection does feature mostly songs from the 1970's, as that is the era I am most familiar with, but also because it seems that they knew how to make the best use of the acoustic guitar in that period (think about how often you hear prominent acoustic guitar in pop music today). Anyway, this is the compilation I came up with, 71 minutes of great music featuring acoustic guitar.  

I kick it off with the breezy opening track from that great acoustic guitar (1st) album from America to set the right mood, then my favorite acoustic Jethro Tull song, followed by a masterpiece from Big Star, and then the non-stop magnificence of  Leo Kottke. After that, sit back and enjoy wonderful ditties from Fleetwood Mac and The Beatles, and then the impeccable 12-string brilliance of Anthony Phillips followed by a delicately beautiful ballad and the understated elegance of a brief Led Zeppelin (Jimmy Page) instrumental. Then we have The Grays, and the shimmering jazzy/classical stylings of the incomparable Guitar Trio of virtuosos de Lucia, Di Meola, and McLaughlin. Next is The Doobie Brothers acoustic masterpiece that just shines throughout, then a real golden oldie from Mason Williams in its original fully acoustic form. Then wrapping things up are more classic acoustic tracks from ELP, Blind Faith, Wishbone Ash, Heart, and Neil Young. But the finale just had to be what I consider to be the most impressive and phenomenal solo instrumental acoustic guitar piece of all-time, Steve Howe and his incredible The Clap, performed live. What great acoustic guitar songs did I miss? What are your favorites? Let me know in the comments.        

Tracklist: Trk# Artist - Song Title (Album-year)
01. America - Riverside (America-1971)
02. Jethro Tull - Life's A Long Song (Living in the Past-1972)
03. Big Star - Watch The Sunrise (#1 Record-1972)
04. Leo Kottke - Busted Bicycle (6 & 12 String Guitars-1969)
05. Fleetwood Mac - Never Going Back Again (Rumours-1977)
06. The Beatles - Blackbird (2018 Mix) (The Beatles-1968)
07. Anthony Phillips-Scottish Suite (ii) Parting Thistle (Private Parts & Pieces II - Back to the Pavilion-1980)
08. Anthony Phillips - God If I Saw Her Now (The Geese and The Ghost-1977)
09. Led Zeppelin - Brn-Yr-Aur (Physical Graffiti-1975)
10. The Grays - Both Belong (Ro Sham Bo-1994)
11. Guitar Trio (Paco de Lucia, Al Di Meola & John McLaughlin)- Midsummer Night (Guitar Trio-1996)
12. Doobie Brothers - Clear as the Driven Snow (Captain & Me-1973)
13. Ten Years After - I'd Love to Change the World (A Space in Time-1971)
14. Mason Williams - Classical Gas (Acoustic) (Hand Made-1970)
15. ELP - From The Beginning (Trilogy-1972)
16. Blind Faith - Can't Find My Way Home (Blind Faith-1969)
17. Wishbone Ash - Time Was (Openng section) (Argus-1972)
18. Genesis (Steve Hackett) - Horizons (Foxtrot-1972)
19. The Beatles - Here Comes the Sun (Abbey Road-1969)
20. Heart - Love Alive (Little Queen-1977)
21. Neil Young - The Needle And The Damage Done (Harvest-1972)
22. Yes (Steve Howe) - The Clap (The Yes Album-1971)

 The Acoustic Guitar Album (A BB Chronicles Compilation).rar

Friday, November 4, 2022

Favorite Dawes Songs - Addendum to Dawes Album Ranking List

Favorite Dawes Songs

As a follow-up to my recent ranking of the studio albums from Dawes, here is a list of my current top 20 favorite Dawes songs. Of course, this will probably change quite a bit over time as different songs become more or less favored with subsequent listens. And of course, there are many more good to great songs that just did not make the list, but this, in general shows my favorites. Thus, this list represents what I am thinking today, and would probably change if reconsidered next week, month, or year. Anyway, here is a list of my current top 20 favorite Dawes songs (with album indicated in parentheses-see key below). They have a diversity of styles over the different albums, but always have had solid songwriting and very enjoyable songs.  

20. Sound That No One Made (MOD)
19. Never Gonna Saty Goodbye (P)
18. So Well (NIW)
17. Everything is Permanent (MOD)
16. Don't Send Me Away (AYFB)
15. When My Time Comes (NH)
14. Moon in the Water (NIW)
13. Someone Will (SDE)
12. Didn't Fix Me (GLWW)
11. Telescope (P)
10. Fire Away (NIW)
9. Feed The Fire (P)
8. Good Luck With Whatever (GLWW)
7. Time Spent in Los Angeles (NIW)
6. It Comes in Waves (MOD)
5. St. Augustine at Night (GLWW)
4. From a Window Seat (SDE)
3. A Little Bit of Everything (NIW)
2. Time Flies Either Way (P)
1. Ghost on the Machine (MOD)

Albums
(NH) - North Hills (2009)
(NIW) - Nothing is Wrong (2011)
(SDE) - Stories Don't End (2013)
(AYFB) - All Your Favorite Bands (2015)
(WAGD) - We're All Gonna Die (2016)
(P) - Passwords (2018)
(GLWW) - Good Luck With Whatever (2020)
(MOD) - Misadventures of Doomscroller (2022)

 

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

BB's Album Rankings - Dawes

Dawes - Album Ranking - Least favorite to most favorite

Since hearing Dawes latest release, Misdaventures of Doomscroller, earler this year, and enjoying that so much, I have immersed myself in the complete Dawes discography ever since. So, I thought it would be appropriate to go through the catalog of this wonderful, under-appreciated band and rank their albums according to my own preferences. They are a very interesting band and have a great catalog, but may not be very well known to many. So, Dawes are from the Los Angeles Area, and were formed in 2007, from the remnants of the previous band Simon Dawes after the departure of founding member, Blake Mills. Remaining band members Taylor Goldsmith (songwriter, guitars, vocals) and Wylie Gelber (bass) were joined by Taylor's brother Griffin Goldsmith (drums, vocals) and Tay Strathairn (keyboards, vocals) to form Dawes. Dawes originally featured a folk-rock, rootsy, country-influenced style reminiscent of the Laurel Canyon sound of the 1970's (CSN, Jackson Browne, Eagles, early Neil Young, solo Tom Petty, etc.). Their first album, North Hills, was released in 2009, and they refined and honed their sound for their second album, Nothing is Wrong (2020) to much acclaim. At the heart of the band is Taylor Goldsmith's songwriting and vocals, with insightful lyrical content ranging from personal, introspective, and heartfelt missives to biting and sardonic musings on contemporary life, featuring consistently intelligent writing, clever wordplay, and beautiful melodies. But the band excels musically as well, which became more apparent and developed in later albums and with their live shows. With subsequent albums, the band began to move away from the folk-rock style to somewhat edgier indie/alt rock and power pop directions (while also still keeping their personal, introspective singer-songwriter songs), as well as creating more elaborate arrangements and instrumental enhancements to Taylor's songwriting. This was evidenced most drastically with their 5th album, We're All Gonna Die (2016), which took a sharp turn away from their folky roots. Their most recent albums have featured a more balanced style incorporating many influences and creative arrangements to produce some pop and rock gems. They also have become known for their more adventurous live shows, where the band stretches out with extended, more jammy versions of most of their songs. As of right now (2022), the band has eight studio albums (which I will be ranking), as well as a couple live albums (which I won't). The good news is that all their albums are at least good (no bad albums), but as always there are certainly some that are better than others, with the best being among the best out there.   

As usual, these rankings only represent my own personal opinion, based solely on my own enjoyment and impressions of these albums, as ranked from my least to most favorite Dawes recordings.

8. North Hills (2009)

Their debut album established the band's folk-rock style, and is their most outright folky and countrified. This was a fine start, with solid songwriting, great vocals and harmonies, and a nice sound and style. Those that are more folk or country fans may consider this to be one of their best album, but for me, it is hampered a bit too much by traditional country tropes and very basic, dull arrangements and production, which renders some of the songs a bit flat and lackluster. Although strong lyrically and melodically, just too many slow, teary (dreary?) songs with trudging arrangements. In later albums, the band would better learn how to enhance their songs with more creative arrangements and production. Songs with better arrangements do come alive, such as the vocal harmonies on Give Me Time, the infectious vibe of God Rest My Soul, the rousing chorus of When My Time Comes, and the Neil Young-esque electric finish to Peace in the Valley. The band showed promise here, but they would get much better on subsequent albums. Best tracks: When My Time Comes, Give Me Time, God Rest My Soul, Peace in the Valley. Weak tracks: Bedside Manner, My Girl to Me, Love is All I Am. Rating: 3ó

7. We're All Gonna Die (2016)

In their most dramatic departure from their folk-rock roots, the band tries out various styles and sounds (and going for more of an Indie/alternative rock direction), as well as a much edgier and upfront production, that is in stark contrast to earlier albums. Unfortunately, the approach is only partially successful and does not enhance most of the songs. On this album, the band seems to be enamored with a rather obnoxious fuzz/distorted bass and guitar sound that infiltrates many of the songs to their detriment (and even a misguided distorted vocal effect on at least one song). However, Taylor's songwriting remains strong and the album features several very good songs. Songs without the heavy fuzz effects and receiving more creative arrangements and production that enhanced their sound, such as Less than Five Miles Away, Roll Tide, and For No Good Reason, come off the best, whereas some otherwise fine songs, such as Quitter and One of Us, and When the Tequila Runs Out are hampered by arrangements that detract from the song. Overall, I give the band credit for trying out new directions, but in this case, just did not result in one of their better albums. They would continue to improve on creating new and interesting arrangements and musical directions in subsequent albums. Best songs: Less Than Five Minutes Away, Picture of a Man, For No Good Reason, Roll With the Punches, Roll Tide. Weak Tracks: One of Us, We’re All Gonna Die. Rating: 3ó

6. Stories Don't End (2013)

Follow-up to Nothing is Wrong is not as strong, but shows the band diversifying their sound and style with more pop and rock flourishes. A strong start to the album with the dreamy Just Beneath the Surface and the excellent driving and funky rhythm of From a Window Seat. Excellent lyrics throughout, particularly on such gems as Someone Will, Most People, and Stories Don’t End. The album closes with a reprise of Just Beneath the Surface; at first listen I didn’t think this reprise was needed, but after further listens, I do really like it to close the album. A few weaker songs keep this from being a great album, but it is still very good. Best tracks: From a Window Seat, Stories Don't End, Someone Will, From the Right Angle. Weak tracks: Bear Witness, Just My Luck. Rating: 3.5ó

 

5. All Your Favorite Bands (2015)

Another strong album that continues to show the growth of the band. The folkier songs show more compelling arrangements, such as Somewhere Along the Way, Right on Time, and the anthemic sing-along All Your Favorite Bands. Other songs show more varied pop and rock styles, such as the Latin jazz feel on Don’t Send Me Away. The band also starts to stretch out more on some tracks, such as the cool Dire Straits vibe and extended Mark Knopfleresue guitar solo on I Can’t Think About It Now, and on the slow extended blues of Now That It’s Too Late Maria. However, I’m not a fan of the opening track and single Things Happen, mainly due to the incessant recurring three note motif that occurs throughout the song: just not pleasant at first, then increasingly annoying as song goes on, which is a shame because nice lyrics, but poor arrangement. Overall, a very good album, just short of great. Best Tracks: Somewhere Along the Way, Don't Send Me Away, I Can't Think About it Now, Now that it’s Too Late Maria. Weak Tracks: Things Happen, Waiting For Your Call. Rating: 3.5ó

4. Passwords (2018)

Continuing to move away from the folk-rock realm with a diversity of styles and approaches, and interesting arrangements that enhance the great songwriting of Taylor. Although the album opens with a bit of a misfire with the heavier and darker Living in the Future, the rest of the album is a joy to behold. By this time the band has developed a more sophisticated sound and style throughout, producing many just fantastic sounding tracks, but also staying true to the great lyrics and melodies of Taylor’s songwriting. From the easy groove of Stay Down, the simple beauty of Crack the Case, to the lush jazz groove of Feed The Fire, the funky syncopation of Telescope, and the whimsical pop beauty of Never Gonna Say Goodbye, the songs are brought to glorious life. And it all culminates in the final highlight of the album, one of Taylor’s finest songs, Time Flies Either Way, with his intelligent and personal lyricism and melodic beauty and featuring elegant piano and sax solos, just the perfect cap to a great album. Best tracks: Time Flies Either Way, Feed the Fire, Telescope, Crack the Case, Never Gonna Say Goodbye. Weaker Tracks: Living in the Future, My Greatest Invention. Rating: 4ó

3. Good Luck With Whatever (2020)

Love this album, continues on their great trajectory following Passwords with their further development and more sophisticated arrangements of very clever and melodic songs. Opens with a fun rocker, Still Feel Like a Kid, then delivers some contemporary attitude with the sardonic Good Luck With Whatever. Overall, a bit more rockin’ than Passwords, with songs such as None of My Business and Who Do You Think You’re Talkin’ To?, but still takes time for the lovely, personal acoustic gem St. Augustine at Night and the introspective and beautiful Didn’t Fix Me. And some of their folk-country roots emerge again on the final two tracks, with the sing-along chorus of Free as We Wanna Be and the countrified stylings of Me Especially. A delightful album from start to finish, highlighting Taylor’s songwriting and vocals, as well as the great arrangements and backing of the whole band. Best Tracks: Good Luck with Whatever, Still Feel Like a Kid, St. Augustine at Night, Didn’t Fix Me. Weak Tracks: none. Rating: 4ó

2. Nothing Is Wrong (2011)

A major upgrade from their first album. This one is still firmly within in the folk-rock realm, with great songs, but they have mixed in some pop and rock elements and more compelling arrangements, resulting in a sensational album with a ‘classic’ sound. This is one of those albums that just sounds like a classic the very first time you hear it. Firmly established the band at the top of contemporary folk-rock. From the opening chords of Time Spent in Los Angeles, just one great song after another. The biting break-up song If I Wanted Someone, the spirited country-tinged Coming Back to A Man, How far We Come, and The Way We Laugh, are just more lively, engaging and compelling. Time Spent in Los Angeles and Fire Away show that they can do catchy more pop-oriented songs with the best of them. And the slower, more gentle songs, such as My Way Back Home, So Well, and Moon in the Water are melodious, sweet, and engrossing, but never dull. Then there is the album closer, A Little Bit of Everything, a genuine classic, as only Taylor could write and perform (although it will certainly remind you of the great Jackson Browne). A simple unforgettable tune that contains such intelligent, heartfelt lyrics filled with emotion and joy. I’ve listened to this song dozens of times, and every time it brings a tear to my eye by the last verse and chorus. Fantastic conclusion to a wonderful album. Best tracks: Time Spent in Los Angeles, A Little Bit of Everything, Moon in the Water, Fire Away, So Well, How Far We’ve Come. Weak Tracks: none Rating: 4.5ó

1. Misadventures of Doomscroller (2022)

With their latest album, Misadventures of Doomscroller, the folk-country roots are barely evident, as the band stretches out with longer songs, a free-er looser style, with more jazz influences as well as some somewhat progressive rock-influenced instrumental breaks. The result is, at least for me, their best album to date, and one of the best albums of 2022, a wonderful musical journey through the ups and downs of contemporary life. The core of the band has always been Taylor Goldsmith's songwriting and vocals, and he shines throughout once again, but with the rest of the band also taking more of the spotlight as well with great musicianship and song arrangements. Consisting of only 6 main songs (6 to 9 minutes each) , the album deals with aspects of life in the world today with Taylor's usual sardonic observations, and includes several longer instrumental breaks. Although the band is known for doing extended versions of their songs in their live shows, this is the first album that has included longer instrumental passages within their songs. And the instrumental extensions are more than just solos, as they represent dynamic explorations of new styles and themes, and move in different and interesting directions. The album is a delight from beginning to end, offering great melodies and engaging arrangements, and encouraging many repeat listens. My favorite song is 'Ghost in the Machine', an infectiously funky number that comes across as an unlikely mash-up of the Allman Brothers and early Steely Dan (The guitar solo even sounds like something Skunk Baxter would have played on those early albums). Also sensational are It Comes in Waves, Everything is Permanent, etc. Really, they're all great. Another major step forward for the band, quite a bit different from previous albums, yet still retaining the great songwriting, and now adding more diverse musical influences and explorations. Just wonderful, from start to finish. Thoroughly superb album. Best tracks: Ghost on the Machine, It Comes in Waves, Everything is Permanent, Someone Else's Cafe, Sound That No One Made. Weak tracks: none. Rating: 4.5ó
BB’s Rating scale:

1ó – Terrible, torturous to have to listen to
1.5ó - Poor, not worth your time
2ó – Fair, maybe a couple half-way decent songs, but sub-par overall
2.5ó – Average, OK, meh, not bad but not that good either
3ó – Good, solid album, several good songs, but not spectacular. Certainly worthy, but may not be something you come back to very often
3.5ó – Very good album. Some stellar tracks, very enjoyable overall
4ó – Great album, filled with great songs, one that you will want to come back to over and over again
4.5ó – Excellent album, beyond great, superb in every way, just short of a masterpiece 
5ó – A Masterpiece, among the greatest albums of its type, and has stood the test of time

OK, Well, that's it. Dawes, a great band that deserves more acclaim and success. Check out their catalog. You can't go wrong, whether you like the more folk and country aspects, or the more diverse folk, pop, rock, and jazz influences of the later albums, they are all good, and some really fantastic. So, what do you think of Dawes and their albums?