While the hip-hop mainstream is still artistically languishing — under the sway of homogenous artists that extol the same-old false glories of gross materialism and a thug’s life — genre-jumping artists like Atmosphere and Bubba Sparxxx have come out with two of the best rap albums this year. Continue reading
Staring down a much-publicized and terminal case of cancer, singer-songwriter Warren Zevon completed one last album before he passed away last week. Find out if what he wanted to say. Continue reading
Thirteen years after last recording together, Jane’s Addiction have released a new album, “Strays.” David let’s you know whether the Los Angeles-based, alternative rock legends have trumped their past achievements or they’re just cashing in. Continue reading
What does a band do when their last album was a classic? This week, Soundbytes reviews three groups who have had to find a way to succeed after success. Continue reading
Long regarded as exponents of edgy rock, Radiohead and former Pavement frontman Stephen Malkmus have released albums that try to reach mainstream listeners. Find out if they’ve succeeded. Continue reading
Although news reports say that hip-hop record sales aren’t what they used to be, there are rap artists releasing new albums that could compare to the best of hip-hop’s glory years. Continue reading
This week, Soundbytes fills listeners in on whether the new albums by the Jayhawks and Zwan break with the past or whether they’re still kicking around the same old ground. Continue reading
Alternative-rock supergroup Audioslave is in the midst of their first U.S. tour. Soundbytes has the info on whether they live up to the legend. Continue reading
Odd men out in the hip-hop game because of their reliance on live instruments, the Roots have proved why their musical approach why they are such adept and potent performers. But they’re not perfect. Soundbytes reviews Thursday night’s show in Minneapolis. Continue reading
Another year and yet another list. Soundbytes gives a rundown of what music you should add to your collection. Continue reading
Soundbytes Music Column 