Paul Weller

On Sunset

Polydor, 2020

10/10

Listen to On Sunset

The legendary and highly influential former frontman for The Jam, Paul Weller returns with a 15th solo studio album, and On Sunset, much like all the work of his career, has The Modfather exploring all sorts of interesting textures and plenty of creative song craft.

“Mirror Ball” starts the album with much atmosphere as Weller’s soaring pipes guide a very mature landscape that alternates between dance rock territory as well as calm moments of exploration in its 8 minutes, and “Baptiste” follows with a very soulful delivery of organs, brass and percussion.

Further along, the title track moves with calm melodies in the soft rock adventure, while “Equanimity” benefits from a firm pop quality to its retro appeal. “Earth Beat”, one of the album’s best, then gets a bit psychedelic with a playful execution of electronic fun. “Rockets” exits the album with some sci-fi folk, which parallels the best work of his idol, David Bowie.

The deluxe version of the record offers some bonus tracks, including the electro-pop of “4th Dimension”, and the bare “I’ll Think Of Something”, where Weller’s distinct vocals are front and center on the gorgeous acoustic tune that builds into a busy display of massive skill. Alternate versions of “On Sunset” and “Baptiste” finish the exit, providing a nice peek into other avenues of these two strong tunes.

Now in his 60’s, Weller has kept it no secret that his preferences have become more avant-garde these days, and even though a younger version of himself might have scoffed at a record like On Sunset, ultimately he’s still an iconoclastic songwriter with a deep appreciation of melody that bridges art and music with much intrigue.

Travels well with: Joe Jackson- The Duke; Cat Stevens- Back To Earth

Rufus Wainwright

Unfollow The Rules

BMG, 2020

9/10

Listen to Unfollow The Rules

The always impressive Rufus Wainwright returns with a 9th studio album, which has the accomplished songwriter more artistic and passionate than ever as married life, fatherhood, and his current residence in Laurel Canyon have much impact on his song craft.

“Trouble In Paradise” starts the listen and makes an immediate impression with Wainwright’s inimitable pipes soaring in the key friendly and chamber influenced setting where Matt Chamberlain’s drumming is nothing short of stunning, and “Damsel in Distress” follows with a strummed guitar and orchestral presence as the atmosphere gets both playful and sophisticated while taking nods at Joni Mitchell.

In the middle, or Act II, (the album is divided into 3 acts) “Romantical Man” takes on a retro quality amid warm piano, while “Only The People That Love” trims the scene back to a calm, romantic, folk influenced setting. “This One’s For The Ladies (That Lunge!)” is as frisky as the title implies, where a bare beginning builds into a nearly gospel like scene of symphonic, majestic beauty.

Closer to the end, “Early Morning Madness” moves gently with a darker approach as Wainwright’s exceptional vocals show much range, and “Alone Time” exits the listen with just keys paired with layered voices and soothing harmonies.

Wainwright considers this his first ‘pop’ record in nearly a decade, and now entering his late 40’s his voice sounds better than ever and the entrance of his personal life and political observations into his creative work help make Unfollow The Rules a highlight in his catalog, which, if you’ve been following along so far, you’ll realize is about as big a compliment as possible.

Travels well with: Brian Wilson & Van Dyke Parks- Orange Crate Art; Martha Wainwright- Come Home To Mama

Foxy

Can’t Stop Us/X-Ray Spex Tribute

Self-Released, 2019

8/10

Listen to X-Ray Spex Tribute

Last year was an exceptional period for the long running punk outfit Foxy, who released the top notch EP Can’t Stop Us, as well as this hybrid X-Ray Spex Tribute that offers 3 of their own tunes, too.

“Bondage/Cliche Mash Up” starts the listen with much energy and attitude as saxophone from Geoff Yeaton adds much the lively setting while smooth vocals align with punk rock melody, and “I Am A Cliche” continues the mood with a punchy chorus and bouncy setting, as does the memorable “Oh Bondage Up Yours”. These ideal covers do much justice to the originals, while putting Foxy’s own harmonic spin on the classics.

The back half of the EP are selections from their excellent Can’t Stop Us record, and includes the anthemic and powerful “Last Glimmer”, while “Frozen” bounces with a youthful spirit. “Can’t Stop Us” finishes the listen with soaring vocals from both genders alongside strong percussion that puts a firm exclamation point on the strength of the EP.

The members of Foxy come from a long lineage of punk rock royalty, and their combined skill set and experience helps produce some really great tunes that point towards the early days of punk and New Wave. After a 15 year hiatus, 2019 proved to be an impressive year for the veterans, and let’s hope this momentum continues with more tunes soon.

Travels well with: The Hollywood Stars- Sound City; Professor And The Madman- Live At The 100 Club

Black Friars Social Club

Black Friars Social Club

Underwear Factory Toy, 2020

8/10

Listen to Black Friars Social Club

A Chicago outfit spearheaded by veteran musician Mark Panick, Black Friars Social Club got their start playing Irish pubs, as Panick recruited an all star cast of 8 musicians, the Friars, to help flesh out his real life stories for this debut album that’s a very eclectic version of alt-folk.

“Ballad Of A Jr Hitman” starts the listen strong with soothing accordion as soft group vocals enter the very thoughtful climate, and “Great Emancipation” follows with a grittier approach where there’s still plenty of melody as spirited guitar highlights the setting.

Halfway through, “Drunk Love Letter” offers a very unique brand of Americana that almost sounds Celtic as Jackie Rae Daniels impresses with exceptional fiddle, while “Sacramental” moves with playful percussion where pop ideas enter the dreaminess. “Sons Of Dunning”, the album highlight, then finds a darker place to reside, with vivid storytelling that aligns with restrained yet dynamic interplay between the many members.

The final 2 tracks are equally interesting, and include the horn friendly and welcomed Mariachi nods of “The Bad In Me” and the morbidly titled “Dead Girl Waltz”, where Panick’s punk roots are evident on the swampy, percussively adventurous exit

Panick has been through much tragedy with the recent passing of two siblings, and like any good artist he’s turned that into exceptional song craft on this unique first record that puts an atypical spin on Americana with much creativity and intimacy.

Travels well with: Mekons- Deserted; Dexys- One Day I’m Going To Soar

Eliot Bronson

Empty Spaces

New Pain, 2020

9/10

Listen to Empty Spaces

Eliot Bronson made me a fan pretty quick with his 2014 self-titled album, and this time the troubadour delivers a concept record where themes of lust, romance, betrayal and loss are present as Bronson handles producing duties on the very intimate affair.

“Visitor” starts the listen bare and warm, as Bronson’s soft, inimitable vocals steer a very mature and reflective opener that hints at country, and “Let Me Go” continues the elegance with a very cautious brand of Americana that isn’t afraid to flirt with rock and a waltz like atmosphere, too.

Elsewhere, “She Loves The Mountains” certainly moves with a rural spirit with playful acoustic strumming, while “Atlanta” offers much attention to mood as pedal steel helps cultivate a sublime climate that gets a bit eerie. “Mountain In My Mind”, one of the standout tunes, then offers folk influences with much beauty amid the sparse environment that inevitably reminds us of Bob Dylan.

“Empty Spaces” and “Gone” exit the listen, where the former glides with soft melodies amid some pop influences, and the latter finds a dreamy place to reside with harmonica complementing the soothing, touching finish.

Absolutely one of the brightest talents in today’s indie-folk scene, Empty Spaces is ultimately an album that surrounds heartbreak, and Bronson’s creative and lush skill set makes this another essential record in his very moving and emotionally gripping catalog.

Travels well with: Drunken Prayer- Cordelia Elsewhere; Birds Of Chicago- Love In Wartime

Cece Gable

More Than A Song

Self-Released, 2020

9/10

Listen to More Than A Song

Cece Gable sure is in fine company on this aptly titled 4th album where Roni Ben-Hur contributes guitar, Brian Landrus delivers baritone saxophone and bass clarinet, and Harvie S and Sylvia Cuenca handle bass and drums respectively. Together, the ensemble deliver 9 American standards and 1 Brazilian tune, where Gable transcends mere music into another level of emotional intensity.

“East Of The Sun”, a Brooks Bowman original, starts the listen soft and soulful as gentle percussion and warm guitars complement Gable’s glass smooth pipes, and “As Long As I Live” follows with a playful approach as soothing instrumentation guides the calm jazz setting.

In the middle, the frisky “My Shining Hour” moves swiftly with Gable’s charming singing complementing the dynamic swing, while Cole Porter’s “What Is This Thing Called Love” benefits greatly from a plucked bass as Gable gets really expressive with her art. “Fotografia”, an album standout, then displays timeless storytelling alongside equally timeless musicianship.

At the end, “Concentrate On You” graces us with one of the busiest tunes, which illustrates incredible skill, and “Detour Ahead” exits the listen with sublime saxophone as the very cautious landscape finishes the record with mature, romantic song craft.

Gable and company make all of these tunes their own with her versatile and gripping voice never once being anything but flawless, and the instrumentation is nothing to spit at either as More Than A Song just might be the best jazz covers album of the year.

Travels well with: Linda Purl- Taking A Chance On Love; Donna Singer- Set Your Heart Free

Lee Gallagher And The Hallelujah

L.A. Yesterday

Self-Released, 2020

8/10

Listen to L.A. Yesterday

Lee Gallagher has a lengthy career in music, going back to his teenage years, though things really took off for him when he moved to San Francisco and took up camp in Joshua Tree. It wasn’t long until he assembled a band- The Hallelujah- and a debut album in 2015 was born.

This time around, the band’s changed a bit, and here Jimmy Dewald, Kirby Hammel and Will Scott are on hand for another batch of Gallagher’s cosmic rock’n’roll that’s certainly nostalgic, always unpredictable, and just might make you channel your inner hippy.

“Highway 10” starts the playful keys as emotive, bright vocals guide the throwback rock that seems indebted to the ‘70s, and “Breakin’ Up” follows with plenty of acoustic guitar in the breezy and folk influenced atmosphere.

At the halfway point, “Feed Your Flame” offers gorgeous roots rock as Gallagher’s vocals really shine, while “Astral Plane Blues” recruits harmonicas for a soaring blues rock adventure that gets a bit haunting, too. “California Divide”, the album stand out, then displays a layered and energetic execution of Americana and classic rock that’s just as memorable as names like Plant and Petty.

At the end, “Gone Today” finds a more gospel place to reside with plenty of soul, and “Rollin’ Out” finishes the effort soft and soothing, as Gallagher and company prove they’re just as impactful in calm situations, too.

A listen that’s just as likely to be acoustic focused as it is to offer fuller rock, Gallagher rubs elbows with psychedelic ideas as well as Laurel Canyon sounds on this often laid back, ‘60s sounding affair that proves that he’s come a long ways since his formative years in Ohio. And really, it seems like he’s just getting started.

Travels well with: Ted Russell Kamp- Down In The Den; Too Slim & The Taildraggers- The Remedy

Thin Lear

Wooden Cave

Egg Hunt, 2020

8/10

Listen to Wooden Cave

The recording moniker of Matt Longo, as Thin Lear the artist explores indie-folk in unconventional ways, especially on the strings and piano fueled Wooden Cave, where he tells the story of a loner dealing with isolation on this very carefully crafted debut.

“Netta” starts the listen with soft, expressive singing and minimal instrumentation in the bare but impactful opening, and the title track follows with gentle piano highlighting the chamber-pop setting.

Near the middle, “Death In A Field” recruits a darker spirit as guitars and percussion help paint a stylish and lush portrait of cautious indie-pop, while “I Thought I Was Alone” offers a piano driven, orchestral pop adventure that builds into one of the fuller tracks. “Maniacs”, the album highlight, then shifts into retro power-pop territory that’s so infectious it alone is worth the price of admission.

At the end, “‘93 Heap” approaches baroque-pop and country spirited in its varied delivery, and “Your Family” exits the listen hushed, with plenty of bare beauty as guitars and strings help cultivate a fascinating intimacy.

Although this album was penned far before the pandemic, it really seems to be suited for quarantine with its reflective, pensive and forthright approach where psychedelia, grooves and plenty of ‘70s nods help put Thin Lear into very atypical and exciting avenues.

Travels well with: Benjamin Schoos- Doubt In My Heart; Alias Wayne- Faux Pas

Tawny Ellis

Love Life

Music Building, 2020

8/10

Listen to Love Life

A renaissance woman who has had much success in acting, producing and sculpting, as a singer-songwriter, Tawny Ellis draws from life experience on this personal effort where Jesse Siebenberg, Ted Russell Kamp and Gio Loria help illuminate the soulful song craft on this 5th album.

The title track starts the listen with pretty, soaring vocals from Ellis as the music delivers a dreamy, melodic setting where an Omnichord is present , and “Moonshine” follows with a calmer display of soulful song craft that’s both folk and country influenced.

Near the middle, “No More” quickly builds into an introspective roots rock stunner with plenty of lap steel, while “Deep End Of Love” illustrates the depth of Ellis’ strong vocals on the haunting album highlight. “I Believe”, another strong track, then flirts with country rock as all sorts of warm melodies enter the flowing atmosphere amid plenty of guitar fun.

Near the end, “Daddy” trims the climate back to balladry as piano guides the emotive outpouring, and “Dirty Work”, a Dan Steely cover, exits the listen with elegant violin complementing the intimate, slow burning finish.

Sometimes heavily layered and other times stripped bare, with multiple producers on hand there’s much variety to be found as Elllis creates a unique brand of Americana that makes an immediate impression and only gets better with repeated listens.

Travels well with: Teghan Devon- Little Lion; Sarah Morris- All Mine

Andy Baker

North Country Sky

Self-Released, 2020

8/10

Listen to North Country Sky

A poetic multi-instrumentalist from Michigan, Andy Baker returns with a 4th album where is thoughtful song craft sees help from many, including Drew Howard on pedal steel, Mike Lynchm on accordion and organ, and Peter Ruth offering his harp skill on the very wise and sometimes gritty North Country Sky.

“Second Wind” starts the listen with Baker’s sublime acoustic guitar playing alongside his warm, inviting vocals as his timeless storytelling runs parallel with the folk music greats as Ian Gorman’s banjo add much, and this theme continues to the expressive “Skywriter”, as well as the reflective and pretty “Sixteen”, where Baker’s dobro is nothing short of stunning.

Further on, “Next Right Thing” displays strategic pedal steel in the hook friendly environment, while “I Know” benefits greatly from Mia Rose’s harmony vocals on the soothing acoustic strummer. “Running After You”, the album highlight, then shifts from sparse balladry to a full display of dynamic interplay between the organic instruments.

Closer to the end, “Fall To Pieces” really allows Baker’s strong pipes to soar alongside organ and backing female vocals from Rose in the gentle climate, and the title exits the listen with eloquent wordplay and a chorus that you won’t forget anytime soon.

Bakers uses folk, country, blues, rock and roots ideas in his careful song craft, and his very strong lyrical content helps make North Country Sky an exceptional listen for those who enjoy eclectic Americana.

Travels well with: Steve Earle & The Dukes- Ghosts Of West Virginia; Buddy & Julie Miller- Breakdown On 20th Ave. South

Seela

Cool

Self-Released, 2020

8/10

Listen to Cool

This 6th album from the Austin, Texas artist Seela has the songstress in fine company as her band of all stars includes her husband Jon Greene (Patty Griffin), her new nephew Andrew Casile and Andrew Pressman (Jimmy LaFave), and there’s a small army of Austin locals lending a hand, too, on these charming and tuneful pop tunes.

“Prize” starts the album off with plenty of soul and melody in the stylish and pop friendly opener that’s got a retro quality to it, and “Up2Me” follows with spirited guitar work as expressive singing aligns with the glowing musicianship that takes not so subtle nods to The Purple One.

In the middle, “Hiding Place” seems primed for the FM dial with Seela’s unique, eclectic formula, while “Before It Began” trims the climate back with some warm intimacy. “Build A House”, one the best selections, then steers the listen into jazz territory, but certainly not in the conventional fashion.

Deeper into the listen, “Bad At Good” enter ballad territory where warm keys and calm percussion complement the dreamy setting, and the title track offers tuneful folk-rock with some of the best guitar work on the listen.

An excellent mashing rock, soul, gospel, jazz and, of course, pop, the grooves, rhythm and melodies Seela cultivates make an immediate impression on this very well thought out record that clearly required a lot of work, but takes minimal effort to enjoy.

Travels well with: Brian Wilson & Van Dyke Parks- Orange Crate Art; Fastball- Step Into Light

The 81's

2 Things & 118 Others

Self-Released, 2020

8/10

Listen to 2 Things & 118 Others

An outfit spearheaded by Tom Siering and Tim Carroll, on this 3rd album as The 81’s they’ve recruited Cameron Carrus on bass, Marco Giovino behind the drum kit and Addi McDaniel on vocals and De Marco Johnson on keys for the fullest sound the band has made yet.

“Michael (End Of The Line)” starts the listen with thick roots rock where a much louder presence than we’re used to from the genre gives it a sonic quality, and “Curb” follows with crashing percussion and a Southern Rock feel amid the melodic yet turbulent setting.

Further on, “Nuke LaLoosh” recruits an intospective presence of while “Jimmy” is a flawless, cautious alt-rocker that tips it hat to the best moments of the ‘90s. “Mindbender”, the album highlight, then twists and turns with bluesy guitar and noisey rock ideas in its pre-grunge like fashion.

At the end, “Is This All You Got?” mixes talking and singing with firm classic rock moments, and “Need To Believe” thumps and glides with dynamic interplay in the fascinating, blistering finish to a searing listen.

A very unique effort that reels in punk nods (Carroll was in The Gizmo’s in the ‘80s), just as it does twang moments, The 81’s version of rock’n’roll isn’t easy to put a finger on, but it’s safe to say if you like enjoy loud atypical rock and names like Joe Strummer and Neil Young mean anything to you, The 81’s should be on your short list of bands to familiarize yourself with.

Travels well with: Mike Krol- Power Chords; Big Loser- Love You, Barely Living

Ted Russell Kamp

Down In The Den

PoMo, 2020

9/10

Listen to Down In The Den

Ted Russell Kamp is a busy man. In addition to playing bass for Shooter Jennings, Jessi Colter and Whitney Morgan, the veteran multi-instrumentalist also produces albums for other artists, as well as writing and recording his own albums. Here, on his 12th solo disc, Kamp handles all lead vocal duties and half a dozen instruments, though he does take help from many contributors, too.

Russell starts the album with vocals from Shooter Jennings on the playful, roots rockin’ “Home Sweet Hollywood”, and “Have Some Faith” continues the setting with plenty of soul present in the folk influenced atmosphere that’s also gospel friendly.

At 14 tracks, Russell gives us plenty to digest and keeps the landscape varied with the warm pedal steel and intricate finger picking of the breezy Americana of “Stick With Me”, while “Hold On”, with Gordy Quist, moves with a rugged yet melodic country rock appeal that’s even a bit spiritual. “Rainy Day Valentine”, one of the album’s best, then offers a bare but expressive trip to the ‘70s with a timeless execution.

Later in the affair, Sarah Gayle Meech adds much to the pretty Americana duet that is “Word For Word”, and Shane Alexander’s contributions to the soothing strumming and aching pedal steel of “Only Son” make this another standout. The record ends with Kirsten Proffit’s aid on the gorgeous finish of cautious intimacy that is “Take My Song With You”.

A body of work that taps into New Orleans ideas and with plenty of soul moments, Kamp again proves that he’ll never be easy to categorize, but will always be easy to embrace, as his blues, country, classic, and roots hybrid has never sounded better.

Travels well with: Too Slim And The Taildraggers- The Remedy; Jamie Wyatt- Neon Cross

Greg Lato

Create My Own World

Self-Released, 2020

8/10

Listen to Create My Own World

It’s hard to believe that this Greg Lato’s first children’s album, cause the throwback pop artist sure knows how to pen a tune for the young ears, and that parents who grew up on ‘70s and ‘80s sounds will be drawn to as well.

“I Like Sprinkles” starts the listen spacey and upbeat with an infectious beat as Lato discusses all the sprinkle options in the EDM climate, and the first of three spoken word pieces follows as Lato’s playful storytelling makes up the appropriately titled “Imaginary Friend”.

Further on, the full band sounds and bright horns of “I Can’t Find My Sock!” makes this one of the more anthemic moments that we can all relate to, while the spoken word “Snow Day” is about one of the benefits of snowstorms when you’re a kid. “Try”, the standout track, then places breezy reggae into Lato’s fun formula that’s as varied as it is infectious.

Closer to the end, “Share My Stuff” recruits a soulful spirit to the lively rocker, and the acoustic ballad “What Daddies Do (I Will Be With You)” exits the listen with some folksy jangle that illustrates even more depth to Lato’s arsenal of sounds.

Lato has had an impressive career after getting hooked on songwriting at the ripe age of 8 that includes music for film, TV and plenty of others artists, and the personal appeal of his spoken word pieces and cameo from Grammy Winner Bill Harley really adds to the multifaceted pop adventure that is Create My Own World.

Travels well with: Mr. Jon & Friends- Rock & Rhyme; Mister G- Fireflies

Zen Zadravec

Human Revolution

Marmite, 2020

8/10

Listen to Human Revolution

A pianist, saxophonist and composer as well as the frontman for two bands, Zen Zadravec has dabbled in many genres, and here he’s immersed in jazz sound as an all star cast help him explore plenty of melody, rhythm and harmony on Human Revolution.

“The Nature Of All Things” starts the listen busy with a dizzying display of trumpets from John Douglas as Zadravec’s key acrobatics shine bright, too, in the Latin and swing atmosphere, and “Mentor Disciple” follows with a meditative melody as Mike Pope’s bass work adds much to the playful, intricate jazz setting.

Halfway through, “Climb” moves with a spirited delivery as Dylan Bell’s vocals add much to the dynamic 9 minutes that tips its hat to legends like Freddie Hubbard and Kenny Garrett, while “Jamiliah” is an emotive and vocally heavy album highlight that documents a husbands love for his wife.

Near the end, “Lillies And Roses” starts cautious and introspective before building into a busy display calculated precision, and the title track exits the listen with a sax heavy finish courtesy of Todd Bashore that encapsulates all the strengths of the players on hand.

A listen with no shortage of sublime solos and where vocals are often used as an instrument, Zadravec and company deliver rich compositions where unpredictable chord progressions and endless beauty are present and absorbed well.

Travels well with: David Bach- Fierce Heart; David Boswell- The Story Behind The Story

The Lucky Valentines

Horses

Self-Released, 2020

8/10

Listen to Horses

A Montana duo who have been playing music together for over a decade now, The Lucky Valentines return with a sophomore album where their organic DIY sounds touch on the human experience with songwriting that emits sadness, joy and wonder a well thought out landscape.

“Fire In The Night” starts the listen with warm harmonizing between the pair as spirited guitars and restrained percussion enter the quiet climate, and “Bones” follows with a haunting setting as soft, expressive female vocals guide the folksy delivery.

At the halfway point, “Edmund” offers a cautious, acoustic fueled adventure with soothing melodies, while “Agamemnon” hints at country influences as the two illustrate a timeless quality amid their very thoughtful formula. “OEO”, one of the album’s best, then brings in violin for an elegant and fuller display of dynamic musicianship that can only exist after many years of playing together.

At the end, “Goodbye Hallelujah” offers sparse beauty in the emotive execution, and “Lines” finishes the listen upbeat and danceable with a festive spirit alongside the rootsy fun.

Jamie and Shaun, The Lucky Valentines, are married with several children together, and they bring the compassion and empathy necessary to raise a family into these very intimate and pretty stories that will strike a cord with all fans of country, folk and Americana.

Travels well with: Anna Tivel- The Question; Patty Griffin- American Kid

Johnny & The Mongrels

Creole Skies

Self-Released, 2020

8/10

Listen to Creole Skies

This debut album from Johnny Ryan and his Mongrels has the New Orleans spirited outfit firmly planted in the timeless traditions of The Big Easy, as plenty of esteemed guests make their way to the party.

“Louisiana Girl” starts the listen with lively funk and expressive vocals in the festive atmosphere, and “Drinking With Angels” follows with a calmer setting that’s no less powerful in its emotive, soulful delivery.

Elsewhere, the flawless “True Life” offers some well done blues, while “Creole Skies” resides closer to balladry as soothing vocals align with warm rhythm. “Saturday Night In Oak Grove Louisiana”, one the album’s highlights, then displays acrobatic piano and contagious energy in the rollicking adventure that’s a Tony Joe White cover.

“Music Man” and “Just Keep Walking” bookend the listen, where the former is full of lively melodies you won’t be able to forget anytime soon, and the latter delivers strategic organs with gospel and funk present and accounted for.

A charming listen that’s very much indebted to the swampy, Bayou flavor of The South, each of the 10 tracks here offers plenty of diversity as country, Americana, R&B, gospel, funk, blues and rock’n’roll all make their way into this exceptional endeavor.

Travels well with: Maceo Parker-Soul Food; Joe Bonamassa- Live At The Sydney Opera House

David Bach

Fierce Heart

Integrity, 2020

8/10

Listen to Fierce Heart

A veteran composer and multi-instrumentalist, David Bach has an impressive catalog, and Fierce Heart adds to that with stylish, mature jazz tunes where a handful of contributors are on hand.

The title track starts the listen with no shortage of grooves in the trumpet and sax filled atmosphere as Michele Bowman and Jenny Langer’s wordless vocals add much to the setting, as does Bach’s piano acrobatics, and “Gymopedie”, an Erik Satie original, follows with bright instrumentation where strategic flute from Brian Falkowski makes an impression.

In the middle, “Mood Swing” brings sax, bass, flute, guitar, and talking drum to a very dynamic and enlightening delivery with much synth, while Sting’s “Roxanne” trims the pace back to a calmer jazz display with Rob Zinn’s trumpet really accenting the mood. “We Are The Champions”, one of the album’s best, then offers a beautiful interpretation of the classic that doesn’t shy away from chamber qualities, too.

At the end, “Trickle Up” flows with a busy but controlled setting of immense skill, and “Taylor” brings in upright bass, keys and flute together on the cautious exit with sweet melodies.

This is Bach’s 6th album, and it’s one of his most gorgeous outings to date, as all 3 covers are reworked in the artist’s unique vision and the originals display a keen sense of modern jazz that we will never tire of.

Travels well with: David Boswell- The Story Behind The Story; Adam Glaser Trio- Wide Awake

Jonatha Brooke

The Sweetwater Sessions

Bad Dog, 2020

8/10

Listen to The Sweetwater Sessions

Jonatha Brooke has an impressive resume that includes over a dozen albums, song placement on well known TV shows and films, as well as being CEO of her own record label. Here, the veteran songstress reworks 11 tunes from her vast catalog and delivers them in a studio live setting, where Nick D’Virgilio, Dave Martin and Phil Naish help flesh out the affair.

“Taste Of Danger” starts the listen with Brooke’s strong, smooth vocals alongside graceful piano as guitar and drums enter the thoughtful setting, and “Prodigal Daughter” follows with a thicker display of emotive rock that seems indebted to the ‘90s in all the best ways.

Deeper into the listen, “Back In The Circus” offers plenty of tuneful melodies as Brooke illustrates much range in her proficient vocals, while “Midnight. Hallelujah” moves with playful percussion as a breezy backdrop aligns with upbeat storytelling. “Glass Half Empty”, one of the album’s best, then embraces modern pop ideas alongside Brooke’s timeless brand of accomplished song craft.

Near the end, “Full Fledged Strangers” trims the pace back with warm balladry that builds into an acoustic guitar friendly landscape, and “I’ll Try” exits the listen with sublime keys guiding the powerful finish to a very enthusiastic recording.

Brooke was one of the early musicians going the independent route when she was dropped by a major label in the ‘90s, and has enjoyed a very prolific and accomplished career with legions of unwavering fans of her pop, rock and folk based tunes. This collection is an ideal starting point for the first time listener, and absolutely essential if you already have Brooke on rotation.

Travels well with: Erin McKeown- Manifestra; Dawn Landes- My Tiny Twilight

Modern Love Child

MLC

Believe, 2019

8/10

Listen to MLC

The recording moniker of youngster Jonny Shane, who, after some chance encounters with Ben Kweller, fleshed out this debut album at Kweller’s Texas home with additional help from Cameron Knight (Alt-J) and Jacob M Berry (Two Door Cinema Club).

“West” starts the listen atmospheric and with smooth vocals on the dark pop tune that bursts into a fuzzy, stadium sized affair, and “In A City” follows with an anthemic quality in its thumping alt-pop prowess.

Elsewhere, “Greenwich Girl” uses electronic strategically in the cautious landscape, while “Sweet Like Me” flows with a more percussive offering and bouncy structure of sugary sweet textures.

Near the end, “Ali” brings a busy setting with some of the best singing on the album as Shane pays homage to his now deceased friend who wrote the tune, and “Stay Young” ends the listen with distinct nods to the ‘80s on a driving, vibrant exit.

An extremely polished affair, as Modern Love Child Shane has his finger on the pulse of all things widely embraced in today’s indie-pop scene, and like many other young musicians, he left the East Coast for California to make this dream a reality. Based on the strength of this record, I’m guessing he’ll be one of the artists to leave an indelible mark.

Travels well with: Alt-J- This Is All Yours; Ben Kweller- I’m On My Way