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Jakszyk, Fripp and Collins – A Scarcity of Miracles (DGM)
I just plugged in the new King Crimson-related project: Jakszyk, Fripp and Collins (with Porcupine Tree drummer Gavin Harrison and Crimson/*Peter Gabriel* bassist Tony Levin). It’s not the high-octane, improv-based prog I was expecting, but I like it and will be listening. It’s pretty meditative thus far. There are more of Fripp’s loops, drones and soundscapes than fiery flashes. Mel Collins’ soprano sax is well suited to the textures began by Fripp and Jakszyk. In addition to his fluid guitar, Jakszyk’s vocal on the title cut prove to be better cut for this type of reflective material than Crim vocalist Adrian Belew – though Jakszyk’s voice is more of a blending element, without the standout character of Belew. Believe it or not, my first thought after plugging in the CD was “this reminds me of the break during ‘If I Had a Yard’ by the Choir.
The Decemberists – iTunes Session ()
Eight live tracks, representing all of the Decemberists’ releases to date. The King is Dead is represented by “Calamity Song,” “June Hymn” and “This is Why We Fight.” At their best, The Decemberists are a tight and compelling live band, and this set is a good introduction.
The Decemberists The King is Dead ()
Apparently, Colin Meloy grew up with the same R.E.M. albums I had. Only HE was able to get Peter Buck to come play on his loving tribute (with plenty of roots and country licks thrown into the mix).
Danger Mouse & Daniele Luppi – Rome (EMI)
This homage to Ennio Morricone‘s classic spaghetti western soundtracks opens with soprano Edda Dell’Orso’s dramatic voice (used to haunting effect on The Good, the Bad and the Ugly 44 years ago) gracing “Theme of Rome.” Note perfect. Jack White and Norah Jones are also featured, interspersed with the sweeping, appropriately cinematic instrumental tracks.
Françoiz Breut – À L’Aveuglette ()
Daniel Lanois – Here is What Is (Anti)
I heard the Emmylou Harris version of “Where Will I Be” first, but Lanois’ own is my favorite.
REO Speedwagon – Hi Infidelity (Epic/Legacy) [30th Anniversary Edition]
Yikes. If this Midwest pop-rock staple is 30 years old, that means I’m even older by a longshot. This was the biggest album in the known world when I was a high school freshman in REO Speedwagon’s home state of Illinois. The main attraction for me is hearing the band’s rough and ready “Crystal Demos” on the set’s second disc. Recorded live on the floor and mixed within three days, many of the basic tracks from these small-studio demos were considered superior to the big budget sounds the band were getting in a top-flight Burbank facility – and the performances were ultimately used as the foundation for the final album.
Though lacking instrumental frills and cavernous reverb, the “Tough Guys” demo spits fire. The updated 50’s poison-penned pop of “In Your Letter,” however, benefited from the brush-up it later received. “Shakin’ it Loose” is represented in an instrumental version featuring Gary Richrath’s crunchy Les Paul rhythm guitar, equal parts The Knack and Cheap Trick. The demo for “I Wish You Were There” leans heavier on Neal Doughty’s honky-tonk piano, without Richrath’s pealing guitar solos.
Back in the day, I had no use for mega-hit power ballads like “Keep On Lovin’ You” and “Take it on the Run,” unless it was to hazard an awkward slow dance at the community center. Nonetheless, I know every word to both. I maintain a soft spot for the rockers, including “Don’t Let Him Go” (though Neal Doughty’s keyboard solo would have better stood the test of time had it been played on a fat Hammond organ). The cheesy, cheeky fun is still evident in “Tough Guys,” as Kevin Cronin paints a young nerd’s paradise wherein the dolls go for the sensitive souls rather than the meatheads.
The Kinks – The Kinks (Sanctuary)
The Zincs – Black Pompadour (Thrill Jockey)
Saga – Heads or Tails Live (Eagle)
