ROB FETTERS, Mother (Rob Fetters). Intelli-pop rarely comes finer than when it’s brought to life by Rob Fetters. His songs are always heartfelt, even when they’re at their cheekiest. This collection comes off as just as witty, but there’s also a slightly darker edge to it even when the songs are at their topical brightest. And let’s not sleep on the man’s abilities as a guitarist. His lead lines slink and wail throughout the songs with gleeful enthusiasm. Fetters, like so many others, seems to be wrestling with the things he’s encountered during his life. But he faces those issues head on with courage and conviction. Fetters makes music that is both heartfelt and highly relatable. We’ve all been the subject of at least one of these tunes, which makes Mother a cathartic experience.

https://youtu.be/ADZc2W19EpI?si=RQgsOVJYpUXA5psz

TREVOR RABIN, Rio (InsideOut Music). Best know for his work with Yes and as a film composer, Trevor Rabin offers up his first solo album since 1989(!). Within Rio lies a collection of prog-tinged power pop — it’s ambitious without being overly complicated — that leaves no doubt just where the Yes albums 90125 and Big Generator came from. There’s even a quick foray into country riffs! The songs have great harmonies and solid instrumental work. But the mix tends to lose itself in the middle to high registers, where the guitars are located. A little more bottom end would flesh these tunes out a bit more and bring more to the sound. It’s a completely listenable, albeit not legendary.

https://youtu.be/lqeW5dPUzMU?si=HA3wxPwFVodFcfU4

BENJAMIN KOPPEL, White Buses: Passage to Freedom (Cowbell Music). From horror and tragedy comes beauty. Saxophonist/composer Benjamin Koppel has turned the story of the rescue of Danish Jews from the Nazis in 1943 into some of the most moving jazz you will ever hear. (A far more detailed account of the historical events is documented in the album’s liner notes. Do not skip over them!) Recollections from survivors are intertwined with Koppel’s subdued but moving compositions, which are played with care and respect by his septet. The music may not assuage the agony of the Holocaust, but it does offer a sense of perspective that accompanies the music more than perfectly.

https://youtu.be/T2gbp4y7t9k?si=fCnrJliKtIzUS_KI

MARCO MACHERA, Dormiveglia (Baracca& Burattini). Marco Machera’s album Dormiveglia is a captivating musical journey that showcases his prowess as a bassist and composer. With guest appearances by legends like Tony Levin (also on bass) and Pat Mastelotto (drums), Machera weaves a sonic tapestry of lush melodies and solid grooves. What sets this album apart is its ability to be highly inventive while remaining incredibly accessible, avoiding the pitfalls of becoming self-indulgent. The standout tracks, “The Nest” and “Building Homes,” exemplify Machera’s skillful fusion of intricate musicality and emotional resonance. Dormiveglia is a testament to Machera’s artistry that will undoubtedly resonate with a diverse audience.

https://youtu.be/8lIuRX_ux-A?si=RnDk0rVzhtVy92r7

THE JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE, Hollywood Bowl (Experience Hendrix L.L.C./Sony Music Entertainment). The Jimi Hendrix Experience‘s live recording at the Hollywood Bowl on August 18, 1967 captures a pivotal moment in rock history, marking the early days of Hendrix’s introduction to American audiences, having already causing a stir in England. The chemistry between bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell is palpable, providing a solid foundation for Hendrix’s groundbreaking guitar work. Surprising the audience by kicking off with the title track from the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, the performance isn’t flawless but embodies the raw energy and innovation that made Hendrix a sensation. The music features many of the pops, buzzes, and audible tuning breaks that came with the concerts of the era, which seems appropriate. Drawing from their debut album, Are You Experienced, this 42-minute set laid the groundwork for Hendrix’s lasting impact on rock music.

https://youtu.be/ByZZer_Ekco?si=dGcrR3pkEUzTorlS

NO SIGNAL, Distorted Reality (No Label Productions). No Signal‘s album Distorted Reality seamlessly blends atmospheric and melodic metal, showcasing solid guitar work and driving, comfortable grooves. The songs are concise and tightly crafted, with a nice incorporation of electronics that adds depth to the sound. The vocals skillfully weave within the mix, avoiding dominance and contributing to the overall musical tapestry. The album’s adept use of acoustic versus electric dynamics enhances emotional impact, drawing parallels to the musical mindset of Muse. Notably, Distorted Reality maintains a high level of accessibility, making it appealing even to non-metal fans who can appreciate its diverse elements and well-executed composition.

https://youtu.be/BAailnweNKw?si=LJu9uT8toLZVODro

XTC, The Big Express (Virgin Records Limited). XTC’s 1984 album, The Big Express, receives a deserving spotlight in this remixed edition that brings new life to an underappreciated gem. Initially overlooked upon its release, the album showcases the band’s versatility, with a musical landscape that veers towards the aggressive, a departure from their best-known sound. Andy Partridge’s songwriting brilliance shines through with a mix of charming and tongue-in-cheek compositions that solidify his place among the finest songwriters of his generation. The witty and cutting lyrics add depth to the tracks, creating an engaging listening experience. While other XTC albums like Skylarking and Nonsvch may enjoy greater recognition, The Big Express serves as an excellent introduction to the band’s diverse catalog, demonstrating their prowess beyond the more well-known releases. Overall, this remixed edition offers a fresh perspective on a vastly underrated record, inviting both new listeners and dedicated fans to rediscover the musical brilliance of XTC.

https://youtu.be/6Yf3UUKdF0o?si=J38_oCAG3qJmPvf-

THE MYSTICAL HOT CHOCOLATE ENDAVORS, A Clock Without a Craftsman (Massacre Records). The Mystical Hot Chocolate Endeavors‘ album A Clock Without a Craftsman unveils a powerful blend of shoegaze and metal akin to the nuances found in A Perfect Circle’s sound. The quartet, despite their youth, asserts a commanding presence in the music scene with lean, tightly woven arrangements. The low-key yet earnest vocals add a distinctive touch, complemented by melodic guitar work and inventive sample usage. The album is a refreshing addition to the nu-metal landscape, avoiding cliches and showcasing cheeky time and tempo changes. Occasionally flirting with ambient sounds, the band demonstrates a dynamic range that keeps the listener engaged throughout this impressive musical endeavor.

https://youtu.be/MCrS4CsqqDs?si=0Blf1NQ8tMLn6bE9

THE HUMAN TRIALS, Phase I (Dead Sage Records). Phase I by The Human Trials delivers a relentless surge of pure energy, showcasing the dynamic force of a two-man punk ensemble fueled by bass and drums. Drawing inspiration from the raw, hardcore sound reminiscent of bands like Fugazi, the album defies expectations by proving that seemingly limited instrumentation can pack a punch that resonates. With nothing held back in each performance, the music peels out ear hairs and stomps all over them, creating an intense sonic experience. What sets the Human Trials apart is their ability to bring the same electrifying energy from the stage to the studio, capturing the raw essence of their live shows. As a promising force in the punk scene, the band’s unbridled intensity and commitment to their sound make them a compelling group to watch in the years to come.

THE WORLD IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE AND I AM NO LONGER AFRAID TO DIE, Thank You For Being Here (Epitaph). The World is a Beautiful Place and I Am No Longer Afraid to Die‘s live album, Thank You for Being Here, is a mesmerizing journey into the heart of epic indie-prog. The band’s ability to translate the raw emotion of their studio albums onto the stage is nothing short of remarkable, and on this record, they let it all hang out without the safety net. The earnest vocals are delivered with an organic authenticity that adds a palpable sincerity to the performance. Recorded during their headlining tour of 2022, the album captures the essence of their live energy, captivating audiences wherever they went. For those unfamiliar with the Philadelphia-based band, this live album serves as a powerful introduction, leaving a lasting impression that ensures you won’t want to miss them the next time they hit your town. Thank You for Being Here solidifies The World is a Beautiful Place and I Am No Longer Afraid to Die as a force to be reckoned with in the live music scene.

https://youtu.be/ggMXe4vHyZ0?si=ApFsIvxCn6hNhZj-

THEO TRAVIS, The Dark Hours (Audio Network Rights Limited). Theo Travis‘s album After Hours is a captivating journey into ethereal tenor saxophone work that seamlessly oscillates between foreground and background, making it a versatile addition to any playlist. The music evokes the ambiance of a classic “gumshoe” detective movie, with Travis’s skillful play on the saxophone creating an atmosphere that feels like Humphrey Bogart could emerge from the shadows at any moment. The album weaves rich and atmospheric soundscapes, immersing the listener in a world of mystery and intrigue. What sets “After Hours” apart is the open-ended yet concise nature of each piece, allowing the imagination to wander within the confines of the music. Whether you’re actively listening or using it as a sonic backdrop, Travis’s album proves to be a delightful and evocative experience, showcasing his mastery of the saxophone and his ability to craft compelling musical narratives.

https://youtu.be/HBD3rs3c4gA?si=0RC4K2aZCmG2__EC

ANDRE 3000, New Blue Sun (Epic records). Andre 3000‘s New Blue Sun is a bold departure from the familiar Outkast sound after a 17-year hiatus since the last Outkast record. A complete subversion for hip-hop fans, the album defies expectations, drawing comparisons to the experimental work of Brian Eno or Stevie Wonder’s Journey Through The Secret Life of Plants. The sonic landscape is enriched with woodwinds and percussion, creating a mesmerizing and unconventional atmosphere. Despite the lengthy 90-minute runtime spanning eight tunes, Andre 3000 is thorough in delivering his musical message, skillfully navigating through diverse genres and textures. The song titles, sometimes enigmatic and intriguing, only hint at the expansive and intricate musical journey contained within this enigmatic album. New Blue Sun is a testament to Andre 3000’s artistic evolution and willingness to challenge the conventions of hip-hop.

https://youtu.be/H_tJNVc07Jc?si=JzYrMEzWp56TAXrJ

BACKWARD SKY FALLING, A Period of Consequence (Backward Sky Falling). A Period of Consequence by Backward Sky Falling delivers a visceral experience through its raw and aggressive prog-metal soundscape. The precision in rhythmic stops and starts is commendable, showcasing the technical prowess of this power trio. Jason Blake’s mastery of the Warr guitar stands out, while Craig Walker’s drumming adds a dynamic edge with a notable sound. Joe Kopecky’s guitar work cuts through the mix, propelling the EP forward. The release exudes potential for greater things, leaving listeners headbanging involuntarily to the intense sonic journey crafted by the band.

https://youtu.be/rki-jA_fKxo?si=0e5qGyr4z1dq_N5a

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I am currently at work on my next book The Wizard of WOO: The Life and Music of Bernie Worrell

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