A new “Classic Albums” documentary on Bob Marley’s major label debut, “Catch a Fire,” transports listeners back in time to see how an unknown Jamaican band -– with the help of Island Records guru Chris Blackwell –- designed a record to capture rock fans’ attention and brought reggae to a world audience. Continue reading
At a joint show of rock veterans at Minneapolis’ Target Center, Bob Dylan proved that he’s still a stunning live act, while tourmate Phil Lesh, formerly of the Grateful Dead, proved that he still has something to learn. Continue reading
After delivering a hat trick of exceptional albums in the ’90s — all of which failed to register with the general public — the Jayhawks have just released “Smile,” its most blatant attempt at a commercial record to date. Continue reading
After more than 70 years of living the blues, B.B. King proved during his performance at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis why he’s billed as the “king of the blues.” Continue reading
Lou Reed latest solo offering, “Ecstasy,” is another brilliant collection of straightforward poetics paired with music that’s much more experimental. Continue reading
After eight underrated albums together and despite a fearsome reputation for their live performances, Los Angeles’ funk-rock troupe Fishbone have released a collaborative album between the group’s revamped lineup and about a dozen guest artists. Unfortunately, this disc is a last grasp for the popular acclaim that has eluded the band for years. Continue reading
Thanks to two stellar records, British band Oasis achieved widespread public acclaim and platinum sales on both sides of the Atlantic during the latter part of the 1990s. Then, their meteoric rise cooled. And while the group’s following in Great Britain has remained rabid, their new record, “Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants,” is poised to reawaken American interest. Continue reading
Greatest hits albums are music’s equivalent of Cliffs Notes. They’re convenient, easy and tell you just what you need to know. That idea is the driving force behind the release of the first-ever greatest hits package for the proto-punk outfit, the MC5. Continue reading
Read the second of a two-part series that examines the greatest albums in rock and hip-hop released during the 20th Century. Continue reading
It was during the first of two shows in Minneapolis on Sunday night — in the middle of “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” — that Bruce Springsteen and the reunited E Street Band’s self-appointed mission became clear. Continue reading
Soundbytes Music Column 