Jazz double bassist Charlie Haden modeled another pathway to upending the established musical order: the role of the insurgent. Playing for years behind many of music’s most overt sonic mavericks, Haden unassumingly did much to break down barriers separating genres and styles. Continue reading
In an era when so many pop stars’ careers seem ephemeral, alt-rock wunderkind Beck has had a run of great albums that compare with rock’s ’60s and ’70s pantheon. His latest, “The Information,” puts an end to his streak. Continue reading
Another year and yet another list. Soundbytes gives a rundown of what music you should add to your collection. Continue reading
As a rule, musical supergroups are typically a disappointment. Soundbytes was at the first show of Beck’s tour with his new backing band, the Flaming Lips, and he has the answer as to whether this pairing is as exceptional as both artists’ latest music. Continue reading
The Flaming Lips have made a career of doing what’s not expected, and after years in the trenches, the Oklahoma trio is now getting the credit they deserve. Soundbytes talks with the Lips about their recent success, their penchant for perverse artistic choices, the mysteries of pop music, their preoccupation with people dressed as animals, and their upcoming tour as Beck’s backing band. Continue reading
Beck Hansen’s eclectic recording career has rightfully earned him the reputation as pop music’s man of 1,000 faces. His newest offering, “Sea Change,” goes behind the dabbler and finally and firmly establishes where the musician’s true strengths lie. Continue reading
Beck Hansen is rock music’s man of a thousand faces. As this week’s release of his new album, “Midnite Vultures,” shows, he is again heading in some surprising new directions. Continue reading
Soundbytes Music Column 