The 88 – No One Here (Rocket Science)
I’m brushing up before checking out The 88’s recent self-titled album. Overall, I think these guys are a great pop band – top notch playing, and most importantly, songs that are fun, catchy, crafty and witty. I doubt that Ray Davies could have made a better choice for his backup band on his last solo tour. These guys coaxed “Dead End Street” out of him!
The 88 – Over and Over (Mootron)
The 88 – Not Only But Also (Island)
The 88 – This Must Be Love (Rocket Science)
Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings – I Learned the Hard Way 7 inch set (Daptone)
This box of 45’s includes instrumental mixes for most of I Learned the Hard Way, plus a vocal version of “The Reason.” Listening to Jones’ powerful delivery, you have to wonder why the song was released as an instrumental on the original album.
Sugarman 3 – Soul Donkey (Desco)
The album’s intro is cringe-worthy: Q: “Is that a donkey?” A: “No, it’s a SOUL donkey!” What follows, however, is a platter full of soul music done right. Neal Sugarman‘s saxophone leads the way, but Adam Scone‘s Hammond organ sends the hairs up on the back of my neck.
Jukebox the Ghost – Everything Under the Sun (Yep Roc)
J. Geils Band – Blow Your Face Out (Atlantic)
Recorded live at Boston and Detroit shows in 1975. Long before “Centerfold,” Geils was a rhythm and blues powerhouse that put on a sweat-soaked, rowdy rock and roll show.
Tom Verlaine – Around (Thrill Jockey)
Downtempo, instrumental mood pieces from the Television guitarist.
Carole King – The Essential (Legacy)
