Can’t believe I haven’t done a post since January…where does the time go? Hope this finds you well and happy…
Here are some things I’ve been enjoying that I’d like to share with you:
“Crazy Horse: The Strange Man Of The Oglalas” by Maria Sandoz. One of the best books I’ve read in awhile. The biography of one of the greatest Americans ever.
Elvin Bishop, Raisin’ Hell. Double live album from 1978. Some of it sounds like Sly Stone, some of it sounds like the Allman Brothers, all of it is awesome. Outside of the JGB, it’s hard to find Melvin Seals on many records. He plays so wonderfully on this…
Aretha Franklin, Live At Fillmore West. One of my all time favorite records. The Queen Lady. Maybe the best rhythm section of all time. Her rendition of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is divine. Billy Preston’s B3 on this record (and it’s companion, King Curtis Live At The Fillmore West) is just exactly perfect.
Dave Mason & Cass Elliot, Dave Mason & Cass Elliot. Great 70’s acoustic rock record. Great vibe throughout. Totally blew my mind when I first heard it.
Elton John, Here And There. Live in 1974. Side one is from Royal Albert Hall and side two is from MSG. “Border Song”, “Bennie And The Jets”, “Rocket Man” and “Take Me To The Pilot” are ridiculously great. Elton was one of the biggest acts on the planet at this point and for good reason. The band is just nailing everything. Very deep record!
Victor Feldman, In My Pocket. For a guy as prolific and insanely talented as Victor Feldman, this record is not in anyway self-serving. He just lays out beautiful little melodies with killer grooves and tasteful arrangements. It is similar in vibe and accessibility to Herbie Hancock’s Fat Albert Rotunda (another highly recommended jam).
Chet Atkins And Jerry Reed, Jerry And Me. Soulful, satisfying and brilliant. True masters.
The London Souls, The London Souls. We were on the Kid Rock Cruise back in March and got to hear these guys perform a few times. Classic power trio. They are really killer live. Their debut record (from 2011) was recorded at Abbey Road and is insanely good. Unique, but tastefully derives from Zeppelin, Cream, The Beatles, Humble Pie. They are opening a slew of shows for Tedeschi Trucks and The Black Crowes this summer.
Anders Osborne, Coming Down. Swampy, dark, soulful, heavy, beautiful. Anders’ talents as a writer, singer, guitarist, producer are endless. This record (post Katrina) has a little scorn but at the same time is hopeful and resilient. He is really tapped in to the source.
Also, highly recommend checking out this killer show from 11-30-1980.
Take care everybody,
TN