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The Orb featuring David Gilmour – Metallic Spheres (Columbia)
I was familiar with the Orb, but Pink Floyd guitarist Gilmour is the attraction for me. I think I like it better than Dave’s last actual solo album (or Floyd album). He’s the perfect guitarist for this ambient synth-pop. Thanks for giving me a new album to love, Orb. Some of it’s like an updated intro to “Shine on You Crazy Diamond” that just keeps expanding.
The Menahan Street Band – No Time for Dreaming (Daptone)
These are the instrumental tracks for the album of the same name by the “Screaming Eagle of Soul,” Charles Bradley. Led by guitarist Tommy “TNT” Brenneck, the group are well-versed in authentic soul and include several of the architects of the Daptone sound. Some tuning issues are exposed here and there by the lack of Bradley’s vocal, but it contributes to the “recorded live as a band” sound favored by Brenneck and company.
The Fireman – Electric Arguments (ATO)
Paul’s recent records have been quite good, but this is the one I return to most. I got to see McCartney perform at Wrigley Field on Monday, and I was thrilled to hear “Sing the Changes” from this album. Judging by the crowd reaction, it was the least familiar tune in the set, by far. The song has a great vibe and irrepressible energy.
Paul McCartney – Wingspan (Hits and History) (Capitol)
Macca’s show featured lots of Wings material, including standbys like “Let ‘Em In,” “Band on the Run,” “Jet” and “Live and Let Die” – alongside surprises like “Mrs. Vanderbilt.”
Original Broadway Cast You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Decca Broadway)
I’m playing upright bass for this 1967 musical during August with the Players Please theater troupe in Lisle, IL. The music is founded in jazz, marching band, and pop. Lots of accidentals, modal and key changes. It’s only my second musical, and Godspell was certainly easier. It’s a fun challenge.
Marvin Gaye What’s Going On 40th Anniversary (Universal)
It sounds cliche to say it, but it’s true. The title track is as relevant today as it was when it was written. As often as it has been covered, Gaye’s version remains the masterpiece. This album also contains the song that introduced me to Marvin Gaye, which happened when Adam Again covered “Inner City Blues” on their Homeboys album twenty-one years ago. Thank you, Gene Eugene. This set includes a vinyl record with the rare “Detroit mix” of the album, which preceded Gaye’s time in Los Angeles creating the lushly orchestrated version we know, replete with stacked versions of his own voice. Also included is a CD of instrumental demos, offering a glimpse into Gaye’s working process in the studio. Though these are unpolished and unstructured, it’s a fascinating treat to hear such material from such a masterful artist.
Badfinger Ass (Apple)
I’m looking forward to seeing Joey Molland at the Fest for Beatles Fans in Chicago this week.
The Handcuffs Waiting for the Robot (OOFL)
… brought to you by Chicago’s glam-pop heroes Brad Elvis and Chloe Orwell. Happy to be reviewing this new disc for BT 69. Short version: Brad, Chloe and band still know all the right moves.
Daniel Lanois Belladonna (Anti)
Perennial favorite. This is Lanois’ instrumental record featuring his ethereal lap steel playing.
The Beatles Abbey Road (Capitol)
It was a week packed with Beatles music, to be sure. McCartney and band closed the show with “Golden Slumbers / Carry that Weight / The End,” just like you knew they would. And it was fantastic.
