Global Union brings down curtain on summer festival season

During its short history, Global Union has grown from a cozy gathering in Bay View’s Humboldt Park to Milwaukee’s premier showcase for world music, as well as the official end of the summer festival season. This year’s free event takes place on Sept. 25 and 26 from noon till 5 each day. Here’s a quick preview on the featured artists at this year’s festival, an eclectic group indeed!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, Mahala Rai Banda, 1pm

Imagine if the famed Tower of Power horn section were to hook up with the Gipsy Kings. Then you have a pretty good idea of what to expect from this Romanian group, sure to get the festival off to a rousing start.

Saturday, September 25, Joan Soriano, 2:30pm

Keeping the groove going is Joan Soriano, a musician from the Dominican Republic, known as “El Duque de la Bachata.” Bachata is a highly percussive style of folk music unique to the DR, and Soriano’s blend of vocals and steel playing is most intoxicating. If you’re a fan of Robert Randolph, make sure to check out this artist.

Saturday, September 25, Debo Band with special guests Fendika, 4pm

Day 1 finishes with an African jam as two of Ethiopia’s best bands perform as part of their first U.S. tour. If you’re into the music of Fela Kuti, make sure you don’t miss this special opportunity to see two of Africa’s best throw down the funk.

Sunday September 26, Delhi 2 Dublin, 1pm

Fans of Joni Mitchell, Joan Armatrading, and Nina Simone have taken to this rising star, born in Ethiopia and raised in the United States. Now based in San Francisco, she is currently touring to support her debut album On a Day Like This. With her warm vocals and strong lyrics, she wears her influences well, but offers a truly unique voice with her jazzy folk style.

Sunday, September 26, La Excelencia, 4pm

La Excelencia, 4pm

Global Union 2010 concludes with this 12-piece salsa orchestra from New York. But this isn’t your grandpa’s salsa music. This isSalsa Dura, a hardcore form of salsa that took hold in the ’60s and ’70s. This is salsa with an edge, fusing hard-driving rhythms with themes of social relevance. They are to salsa what Black 47 are to Celtic music, an act that moves your soul as well as your feet.

More information (and videos) on this year’s Global Union performers are available at alvernopresents.alverno.edu.

For more about Global Union, see more Compass coverage here.

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Jack Grassel: A Compositional Retrospective, Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, 1584 N Prospect Ave, September 30, 7:30 pm

It was exactly 40 years ago when local guitar great Jack Grassel gave his debut performance on the stage at the Conservatory. To celebrate this milestone, the WCM launches their new season of the Faculty Artists series with this special program. The entire concert will consist entirely of Grassel originals. His wife, vocalist Jill Jensen, bassist John Babbitt, and percussionist Ben Hans will join him. This is a special celebration for a special musician.

Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Marcus Center, September 24-26

When the late Lukas Foss began his tenure as Music Director of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra in September, 1981, he chose program Beethoven’s mighty Ninth Symphony for his opening, with its immortal “Ode to Joy” movement. For the start of the MSO’s 2010-11 season, current Music Director Edo de Waart has again turned to this monumental work. In addition, the program will be bookended with works from two of the greatest American composers. The program opens with Tromba Lontana, a short piece from John Adams, America’s greatest living composer. Following that is Aaron Copland’s majestic Suite from Appalachian Spring, which features the memorable arrangement of the folk hymn “Simple Gifts” that concludes the piece. Along with the Beethoven, it should add up to one of the greatest openers in MSO history.

Farm Aid, Miller Park, October 2

Prompted by a remark made by Bob Dylan at the original Live Aid concert in July, 1985, country music icon Willie Nelson quickly organized Farm Aid, a mega-concert to raise funds for America’s financially strapped family farmers. That concert was held on a rainy Sunday in Champaign, Illinois that September. Scores of acts from country, pop and rock answered Willie’s call to perform. In fact, it was the first time Eddie Van Halen performed onstage with Sammy Hagar, foreshadowing Hagar’s joining Van Halen the following year.

Three of that concert’s performers-Farm Aid board members Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp-will again take the stage for the 25th edition of Farm Aid, being held for the first time in Wisconsin at Miller Park on October 2, rain or shine. They will be joined by recently added board member Dave Matthews, along with Norah Jones, Kenny Chesney, Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, Jason Mraz, Band of Horses, Robert Francis, Amos Lee, and local legends The Bodeans. With tickets priced between $40-$100, it’s the concert bargain of the year, and once again, the proceeds will benefit family farmers, especially those in our own area.

Tickets are available by calling (414) 902-4000 or tickets.com. More info can be found at farmaid.org.

Cabaret, Milwaukee Rep, September 14-October 24

The Rep’s new Artistic Director Mark Clements launches his tenure with the Kander and Ebb Broadway classic set in a seedy Berlin nightclub during the early years of the Nazi regime. The show made stars of Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey. This production marks a number of firsts for the Rep. It is the first Broadway musical to be staged in the Rep’s Quadracci Powerhouse Theatre. It also marks the Rep’s first joint venture with the Milwaukee Ballet. MBC Artistic Director Michael Pink provides the choreography for the production and a number of MBC dancers will be featured in the show’s production numbers. It should be a special treat for fans of musicals and theatre alike.

Metropolis, Oriental Theatre, September 28 & 29, 7 pm

The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival will be held September 23-October 3, and a special treat of this year’s festival is a special screening of Fritz Lang’s 1927 science fiction masterpiece Metropolis. For decades, a 25-minute section of the film went missing and feared lost forever. In 2008, the missing footage miraculously turned up in a warehouse in, of all places, Argentina! Thus, the festival screenings will mark the first time this epic about a futuristic society will be seen in its entirety in Milwaukee. Making the occasion extra special will be the return of the Alloy Orchestra to provide the live background score music. Alloy has been given Roger Ebert’s personal stamp of approval, and their uncanny ability to make a small number of musicians sound like a full-size orchestra is amazing. It’s bound to be an audio and visual experience not to be missed.

Marc Cohn, Listening Booth: 1970

Carlos Santana, Guitar Heaven: The Greatest Guitar Classics of All Time

Singer/songwriter Marc Cohn (“Walking in Memphis”) has taken a novel approach to his latest release, Listening Booth: 1970. As the title implies, all the songs come from 1970, when the young Cohn initially heard these songs in a listening booth at his local record store. (Brings back memories of Radio Doctors, doesn’t it?) Cohn puts his unique spin on these gems, including “Wild World,” “Maybe I’m Amazed,” “The Only Living Boy in New York,” and “Into the Mystic.” Two particular highlights are his duets with India.Arie on Bread’s “Make It with You” and Aimee Mann on Badfinger’s “No Matter What.” All in all, a nice trip down Memory Lane. Fans of James Taylor’s recent Covers albums will find plenty to like here.

In 1999, Carlos Santana was reunited with his mentor, Arista Records chief, and the man who signed Santana to his first Columbia records contract in 1969, Clive Davis. For Santana’s first album with Arista, Davis suggested teaming up Santana with current music stars. The result was the stunningly successful Supernatural album, featuring the worldwide smash hit “Smooth,” which sold tons and garnered Santana a raft full of Grammys. The duo hopes lightning strikes twice with the modestly titled Guitar Heaven: The Greatest Guitar Classics of All Time, arriving in stores on September 21.

As the title implies, Santana turns his attention to rock classics this time around, and as on Supernatural, he gets plenty of help. Among the more intriguing tracks are Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love,” featuring Soundgarden’s Chris Cornell; Jeff Beck’s “I Ain’t Superstitious,” a guitar duel with Jonny Lang; AC/DC’s “Back In Black,” featuring Nas and rising star Janelle Monae; the Beatles’ “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” featuring Yo-Yo Ma (!) and India.Arie (there she is again!); the Rolling Stones’ “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” with Stone Temple Pilots’ Scott Weiland; and Jimi Hendrix’s “Little Wing,” featuring Joe Cocker. Looks like Santana and Davis have hit the jackpot again.

Guitar Heaven is available in both the regular CD and a Deluxe Edition featuring a DVD containing a “making of the album” documentary, along with interviews with Santana and Davis.

Marc Cohn performs at the renovated Northern Lights theatre on October 15th.

Tom Jones, Praise and Blame

Jerry Lee Lewis, Mean Old Man

Two pop icons have new albums, both clearly indicating they still have plenty left in the tank.

Sir Tom Jones’ Praise and Blame is on the Lost Highway label, home of Americana artists like Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Ryan Bingham. And that’s appropriate, given the material draws heavily from blues and gospel music. Hearing him doing standards like “Ain’t No Grave” and “Run On” might come as somewhat of a shock to his longtime fans, but to those that saw his appearance on Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues series on PBS several years back, it comes as no surprise. This is the music Jones cut his teeth on growing up in Wales, and with assists from producer Ethan Johns and greats like Booker T. Jones, the result is a peak in Jones’s long and storied career. It’s one of 2010’s best albums.

Following up his great all-star album Last Man Standing from 2006, the Killer returns with Mean Old Man. It looks like everybody who wasn’t on the previous album is on board here. First of all, make sure to get the Deluxe Edition of the album. It contains 18 songs versus 10 on the standard version, so spend the few extra bucks and get yourself a really great album. Among the highlights on an album full of them are “Dead Flowers” with Mick Jagger; “Sweet Virginia” with Keith Richards; “Swinging Doors” with Merle Haggard; “You Can Have Her” featuring guitar icons Eric Clapton and James Burton; “Railroad to Heaven” with Solomon Burke; “Hold You in My Heart” with Shelby Lynne; and a rousing rendition of “Will the Circle be Unbroken,” featuring Mavis Staples, Robbie Robertson, and Nils Lofgren.

Measuring up to the high standard set by Last Man Standing is a tall order, but leave it to Jerry Lee to equal if not surpass it on Mean Old Man, another of 2010’s great albums.

Fidelity! JP, Chrissie, and the Fairground Boys

Pretenders leader Chrissie Hynde has never been one to sugarcoat anything, and so it is with the new album Fidelity! on which she’s joined by Welsh singer-songwriter JP Jones. It’s a concept album that tells the story of the duo’s relationship, a doomed love affair between Hynde and the much younger Jones. These songs grab you by the scruff of the neck and don’t let go. It can stand alongside the Beach Boys’ classic Pet Sounds, another album that tells a similar story, and that’s high praise indeed.

Les Paul, Live in New York DVD

The core of this DVD comes from a 2005 show at the Iridium club celebrating the “Wizard of Waukesha’s” 90th birthday. Guests appearing with Les for this special show are Tommy Emmanuel, Steve Miller, Keith Richards, David Grisman, and Jose Feliciano. But the real star of course is Paul himself, with plenty of his classic songs. Lots of great bonus features are here too, including testimonials from Tony Bennett and Bonnie Raitt, a 1940’s “soundie” featuring the Les Paul Trio, and more surprises. It’s a great keepsake of a true musical giant.

Paddy McFest turns the big three-oh

2010 marks the 30th edition of Irish Fest, which has evolved from its humble beginnings to become one of the world’s greatest showcases of Celtic culture. And it’s happening Aug. 19-22 at Maier Festival Park. For this auspicious occasion, there will be many special features, including a showcase of the music and culture of Northern Ireland.

With the dozens of acts performing during the festival, it’s almost overwhelming to make the decision about whom to see. Although you can hardly go wrong with any of them, here are several of my personal recommendations.

Red Hot Chili Pipers

Yes, that’s Pipers. These Scottish lads are back by popular demand from last year, armed with their brand new live-in-Glasgow album Blast, and rockin’ the house with a blend of originals and surprising covers. You haven’t lived until you’ve heard bagpipes playing “Smoke on the Water,” “Thunderstruck,” “Clocks,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Eye of the Tiger.”

La Bottine Souriante

Yes, that’s French and means the laced boot or the smiling boot. This veteran band hails from Quebec, Canada, a melting pot of Celtic cultures, and their music draws from Celtic and Cape Breton styles. The influences are clearly heard in their music, with the added twists of French lyrics and a horn section straight out of Chicago! They caused a sensation in their Irish Fest debut several years ago, and they’re back to celebrate the 30th anniversary.

Cherish the Ladies

This all-female group, around almost as long as the fest itself, also returns for the Big Party. Led by irrepressible flutist (or is that flautist?) Joanie Madden, and comprised mainly of descendants of Irish who emigrated to the United States, they carry on the traditional music and dance of their ancestors. To be fair to the lads, several male step dancers usually make their way into the show.

Liz Carroll

The amazing fiddler from the Windy City captured the all-Ireland fiddle championship as a teenager, and has been appearing regularly at the fest dating back to the early ’80s, when she was a member of Green Fields of America (also returning this year for the fest’s 30th anniversary). Hopefully, virtuoso guitarist/vocalist John Doyle will be back at her side for these fest gigs.

Different Drums of Ireland

The Irish version of Drumline, this group from Northern Ireland came together in 1999 to perform in a BBC TV special celebrating the new millennium. They were a huge hit with the TV audience, and have been touring and recording ever since, including numerous performances at Irish Fest. Most recently, they stopped in Milwaukee for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the Irish Cultural and Heritage Center. They mix their highly percussive sounds with some lovely ballads.

Baal Tinne

A special note should be made about this group whose name is pronounced Bahl Tinnuh. Chicago-area flutist Noel Rice has been performing at Irish Fest since its inception, a record shared perhaps only by the members of local group Blarney. With his kids, fiddler Cathleen and bodhran wizard Kevin, they formed the nucleus of what became Baal Tinne, a five-piece band that mixes elements of jazz with their traditional sound. Noel also helped found Chicago’s Academy of Irish Music, whose talented students have performed many times at Irish Fest and will be back again this year.

Frogwater

Speaking of veteran performers at Irish Fest, these Bay View residents have been playing the festival since the ’90s, when they were members of The Ghillies, a local Celtic band. Fiddler/vocalist Susan Nicholson and her husband, guitarist John Nicholson, have truly become a fest tradition. Their appearances usually include surprise guest musicians, and their energetic performances continue to delight fans new and old. The duo is truly in their element at Irish Fest.

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August 2010

Summer Sizzle Historic Third Ward Jazz Festival, August 7, 11 am-11 pm

After a one-year hiatus, the Summer Sizzle jazz festival makes a welcome return on Saturday, August 7, with free performances on four stages. Among the array of national and local talent are two Milwaukee jazz legends: guitarist Manty Ellis and tenor saxman Berkeley Fudge. They’ll be performing from 1:30-6pm on the Main Stage. It’s a great opportunity to catch these giants.

For more info go to historicthirdward.org or call 414-273-1173.

Herbie Hancock, Imagine Project

You’re a Hall of Fame jazz pianist. Your last album, a tribute to Joni Mitchell called River, stunned the music world by winning the Grammy for Album of the Year (not just Jazz Album of the Year). What do you do for an encore? Well, if you’re Herbie Hancock, you spend several years traveling the world recording with great musicians from all fields of music. The final result is Imagine Project,and you’re not likely to find a more electic album this year, or perhaps any year.

Again teaming up with producer/bassist Larry Klein, Hancock has created one of the year’s most exhilarating releases. Check out this guest list: Jeff Beck, the Chieftains, Pink, Seal, India.Arie, Dave Matthews, Wayne Shorter, Derek Trucks, Susan Tedeschi, Anoushka Shankar, Los Lobos, Chaka Khan, and plenty more. The music includes remakes of classics including John Lennon’s title tune, Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’,” the Beatles’ “Tomorrow Never Knows,” Joe Cocker’s “Space Captain,” Peter Gabriel’s “Don’t Give Up,” and Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come.” In some ways, it is reminiscent of last year’s Playing for Change collection, and equally inspiring. A nice 70th birthday present from Mr. Hancock.

Herbie Hancock’s Imagine Project performs at the Northern Lights Theatre on August 20. For tickets or more info, go to paysbig.com/entertainment.

Various Artists, 101 Beer Songs

Various Artists, Smoke That Cigarette: Pleasure to Burn

In my quest for unique compilations, these two recent releases have unlikely sources for inspiration.

101 Beer Songs is part of EMI’s ongoing “101″ series, but with a twist: this one was produced in Australia, a place where the locals know a thing or two about lagers. Giving that fact, and not having any track information beforehand, I was intrigued to see what songs would make the cut. I expected songs from the likes of Tom Waits and a propensity of country classics.

One artist I saw on the picture of the cover was George Thorogood & the Destroyers. Aha, “I Drink Alone,” right? Try “Bad to the Bone,” a track that has turned up over and over again on these comps. As for country, the very few C&W tracks include the likes of Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler” and Johnny Cash’s “I Walk the Line.”

That being said, a more appropriate title for this set might be 101 Pub Favourites, since all of these songs would be great accompanying an evening at the local watering hole. As a bonus, you do get classics from Aussie acts that just never caught on here in the USA (i.e., Cold Chisel, Dragon, Skyhooks, Reef, the Ferrets). And it’s packed with great sing-a-long faves like Violent Femmes’ “Blister in the Sun,” Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” Devo’s “Whip It,” Heart’s “Barracuda,” Blondie’s “One Way or Another,” John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” the Band’s “The Weight,” Boston’s “More Than A Feeling,” J Geils Band’s “Centerfold”…even George Baker Selection’s “Little Green Bag.” and Blue Swede’s grunting version of “Hooked on a Feeling!”

So while it’s not what I originally envisioned, this is one great party set.

On the other hand, Smoke That Cigarette: Pleasure to Burn has no such misleading pretenses. Arriving to coincide with Wisconsin’s new anti-smoking law taking effect (purely coincidental, I’m sure), this great comp from Germany’s venerable Bear Family label features several decades’ worth of smoking songs. Along with obvious tracks like Tex Williams’ “Smoke Smoke Smoke (That Cigarette)” Joe and Rose Lee Maphis’ “Dim Lights, Thick Smoke (And Loud Loud Music),” and Patsy Cline’s “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray,” you also get smoky gems including Les Paul and Mary Ford’s “Smoke Rings,” Jerry Reed’s “Another Puff,” Marty Robbins’ “Cigarettes and Coffee Blues,” Homer & Jethro’s “Are You Kissing More Now (But Enjoying It Less)?” Peggy Lee’s “Don’t Smoke in Bed,” Frank Sinatra’s “These Foolish Things” and the Rev J.M. Gates’ recorded sermon “Smoking Woman in the Street.” There are thirty-two tracks in all, including a Jack Webb radio testimonial for Fatima cigarettes from a 1950’s Dragnet episode.

It will cost you half the cost of a carton of smokes to score this disc, but like other Bear Family releases, very much worth it.

Emerson, Lake & Palmer, A Time and a Place
Emerson, Lake & Palmer, High Voltage
Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Pictures at an Exhibition DVD

The original supergroup of prog, Emerson, Lake, & Palmer were heralded by bursts of cannon fire when they made their debut at England’s Isle of Wight festival 40 years ago this month. Coinciding with this milestone, as well as their recent reunion gig at a festival in England, there’s a slew of new ELP releases, one of which will be essential to ELP and prog fans.

High Voltage is yet another ELP compilation, this one commemorating the reunion gig. Disc 1 features the original versions of the extended works Pictures at an Exhibition and Tarkus in their entirety, while Disc 2 has “shorter” songs like “Fanfare for the Common Man,” “The Barbarian,” “Take a Pebble,” and “Lucky Man.” Strictly for ELP completists only.

The Pictures DVD features a filmed concert performance of one of the band’s signature works, their adaptation of Mussorgsky’s classical warhorse. Rarely seen in the U.S., it provides an opportunity to see the band’s stage act from the early stage of their history. However, beware of the psychedelic visuals added to the performance footage. A filmic conceit designed to enhance the performance, it only serves to detract from the concert experience.

Most intriguing of the releases is A Time and a Place, a 4-CD set containing live performances spanning 1970-1998. The first three discs are taken from soundboard recordings, while the fourth disc contains recordings made by fans at ELP gigs. The sound quality on this disc is surprisingly good, and affords one the opportunity to hear such treats as first-time-ever authorized live-versions of “Endless Enigma” and “Abaddon’s Bolero,” as well as a pre-Brain Salad Surgery version of “Toccata,” complete with a tour de forcedrum solo from Carl Palmer, before he acquired the Moog drums that defined the studio version.

In fact, you get no less than three extended Palmer drum workouts. In addition to “Toccata,” there are solos on “Tank” and “1st Impression” from Karn Evil 9, offering solid evidence that Palmer is the greatest rock drummer this side of Neal Peart.

All the ELP classics (except “Trilogy”) are present, and the sound restoration work is quite remarkable. The discs come packed in a classy box, complete with art by famed bootleg cover artist William Stout, whose work graced dozens of 70’s LP’s. Perhaps the fact Keith Emerson himself provided much input to this compilation has resulted in the live album ELP fans have awaited for decades.

The Carl Palmer Band performs October 28th at Shank Hall. For more info go to shankhall.com.

Marvin Hamlisch Presents The Way We Were: The Music of the 70’s, August 15, 7 pm on MPTV 36.1

Yes, Marvin Hamlisch is the current pops conductor of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, but back in the 70’s, he was truly Mr. Music. The former accompanist for Groucho Marx and bandleader on the Mike Douglas TV show, he won Oscars for the songs “The Way We Were” and “Nobody Does It Better,” as well for adapting the music of Scott Joplin for the movie The Sting, helping to ignite a revival of Joplin’s music. He also won Tony and Pulitzer prizes for the classic musical A Chorus Line. Heck, the guy even appeared on the Midnight Special TV series, performing his hit version of “The Entertainer” from The Sting, for which all ice cream truck drivers are eternally grateful (Nice tux, Marvin!). So who better to host a special featuring pop music of the 70’s? Along with Hamlisch, this recently filmed concert features from performances from the likes of Debby Boone, Gloria Gaynor, Three Dog Night and BJ Thomas.

What, no “Stairway to Heaven?” Don’t put it past Marvin; that song just might turn up here.

RIP, Dr. Demento

Shaving Cream! Be nice and clean! Shave every day and you’ll always look keen!”

“They’re coming to take me away, Ha-Haaa!!”

“Fish heads, fish heads, roly-poly fish heads! Fish heads, fish heads, eat them up—yum!”

“Dead puppies, dead puppies, dead puppies aren’t much fun.”

“Ma-ma-ma-my bologna!”

If the above quotations sound familiar to you, it can mean only one thing: you were definitely a fan of the long-running Dr. Demento syndicated radio show. Those lines were from songs that were often among the show’s weekly Funny Five, selected by the show’s listeners. During the show’s 40-year run, not only did the Doctor (aka music historian Barret Hansen) present crazy novelty songs past and present, but it’s also pretty safe to say that master parodist “Weird” Al Yankovic (who recently appeared at the Summerfest Classic Rock stage) would not be into the 30th year of his remarkable career had it not been for his debut song “My Bologna” getting its big break on the Demento show.

Although best known for featuring novelty songs, the Demento show focused on comedy recordings of all kinds. Many were introduced to movie and TV stars Bill Cosby, Bob Newhart, and Woody Allen’s classic stand-up comedy recordings through regular airplay on the show. And musical comedy geniuses Spike Jones and Tom Lehrer might well be forgotten today were it not for repeated exposure of their songs on the show.

In addition, Dr. Demento was a trailblazer in FM radio when his show was nationally syndicated in 1974, paving the way for radio music stalwarts such as Nick Michaels, Little Steven, Alice Cooper, David Dye, Jim DeRogatis, Greg Kot, and Jim Ladd. In fact, mainstay program Off the Record host Uncle Joe Benson began his career at Racine’s WRKR, Milwaukee’s Demento affiliate. Hansen received industry recognition in 2009 when his show was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame by Chicago radio icon Jonathon Brandmeier.

Alas, it was the recent announcement by Brandmeier’s longtime station WLUP to drop the Demento show, reducing the show’s national network to a handful of stations (there hasn’t been a Wisconsin Demento affiliate for years), that led Hansen to end the syndicated show’s run. But all is not lost. Just as Dr. Demento helped revolutionize FM radio in the ’70s, the show will continue as a weekly podcast on the internet. And you can bet the sounds of Spike Jones, Tom Lehrer, “Weird” Al, et al., will continue to delight “demented” fans new and old. Stay demented, Doctor.

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WMSE Backyard BBQ, July 18th, Cathedral Square Park

Last summer, WMSE launched Radio Summer Camp, a weeklong festival of acts, focusing in on local talent, culminating in the Backyard BBQ at Cathedral Square Park, featuring great sets from Bill Kirchen and Justin Townes Earle, among others.

The good news is Summer Camp is returning for 2010, taking place July 15-18. Dozens of acts, again focusing on homegrown talent, will be performing at ten venues around town, culminating in the daylong free Backyard BBQ at the park on Sunday, July 18, getting underway at 11am.

Given the fest is in direct competition with Chicago’s Pitchfork festival that weekend, the MSE folks (with help from the Pabst Theater) have done well indeed. The lineup features longtime Milwaukee faves Southern Culture on the Skids, or SCOTS, as they’re known to their legion of fans, high-octane country from .357 String Band, great New Orleans blues sounds from Eric Lindell, along with Jonathan Burks Band and the Ragadors.

One band on the BBQ lineup I am eagerly awaiting is North Carolina’s Carolina Chocolate Drops, whose new album Genuine Negro Jigs was released a few months back. If you dig bluegrass and /or Celtic style folk, this group is not to be missed. Their sound will blow you away, and perhaps give you a new perspective on this music you thought never existed, but certainly part of this nation’s musical heritage. Based on a recent live in-studio appearance I heard on BBC Radio 2, their stage show promises to be as much fun as their album.

Electri-violet

Those who enjoy the jazz stylings of local jazz couple Jill Jansen and Jack Grassel would do well to check out this new CD from this duo.

Vocalist—and Bay View resident—Carole Ferrara and guitarist John Plankenhorn are the featured musicians of this group, and they’re backed by a number of fine Milwaukee musicians, including drummer Sam Monroe, trumpeter Jamie Breiwick and saxman Aaron Gardner (also featured on the great recent debut from Kings Go Forth).

The CD features Plankenhorn originals nestled beside covers that include BB King’s “The Thrill Is Gone,” Carole King’s “So Far Away,” Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine,” and Chet Baker’s “My Funny Valentine.” Their easy going sound goes down like a cool drink on a warm summer’s evening.

Speaking of which, Electri-violet will be performing at Chill on the Hill July 6 at Humboldt Park.

For CD’s and more info, go to electriviolet.com.

Bastille Days, East Town, July 8-11

Well, while the French soccer team might have been a washout at the World Cup, rest assured that spirits will be high as usual at the 2010 Bastille Days festival, the only Milwaukee ethnic festival held downtown, and it’s free too! A great entertainment lineup is topped by the fabulous Dirty Dozen Brass Band who are bringing New Orleans funk to Cathedral Square, along with many local favorites including Paul Cebar Tomorrow Sound, Robin Pluer who will be doing her traditional chansons show assisted by Mrs Fun and Juli Wood, and Frogwater with emphasis on the Cajun side.

For more info, see easttown.com.

TV Soundtrack, Glee-The Music Volume 1

TV Soundtrack, Glee-The Music Volume 2

TV Soundtrack, Glee-The Music Volume 3: Showstoppers

TV Soundtrack, Glee: The Power of Madonna

TV Soundtrack, Glee: Journey to Regionals

Rock Choir, Rock Choir Volume 1

There’s no doubt the biggest surprise of the past TV season was Glee, which followed the stories of the kids in glee club at William McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio, and their leader, idealistic teacher Will Schuester.

For most fans, the weekly highlights, other than to see what new scheme cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester has concocted to foil the glee club, are the numerous production numbers. If you thought you heard the last of “Don’t Stop Believin’” on the finale of The Sopranos, Glee has proven you seriously wrong. The group’s rendition of the song on the show’s debut episode sent it skyrocketing to the top of the iTunes chart. This has resulted in no less than five soundtrack CD’s from the show, most of which have topped the album charts. (And yes Virginia, there’s a Glee Christmas disc coming later this year.)

The good news is that the show’s music is so cleverly arranged that it can be very much enjoyed on its own. I particularly enjoyed the cover of “Vogue” by Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch) on the Madonna disc. Get on the dance floor!

And Glee is not a uniquely American phenomenon. Glee fever has struck worldwide, already gripping the UK and Germany, following in the wake of the international success of High School Musical.

Now, a real life Glee story is unfolding in the UK. Rock Choir is a network of singing clubs across the UK with members of all ages performing choral versions of rock classics like Queen’s “Somebody to Love” (also covered on a Glee collection). After one Rock Choir chapter was profiled on British TV, the spark turned into a fire. The Rock Choir movement has captured the imagination of the entire UK, with thousands of participants nationwide. This has culminated in a four-album deal with Decca Records, which just released the first album of Rock Choir performances. The album is the UK’s most anticipated album of 2010, with massive preorders indicating the album could wind up outselling Susan Doyle’s mega-selling 2009 release. Don’t be surprised if the Rock Choir phenomenon crosses the Atlantic and launches another British music invasion here in 2011. In the meantime, you can check out the first Rock Choir CD (along with a promo video) at Amazon.co.uk, or at rockchoir.com.

Arts Digest, Milwaukee Public Television

Any locally-produced TV show that focuses on Milwaukee’s arts scene has to be a good thing, right? Well, MPTV’s new show Arts Digest does just that. The monthly half-hour program is hosted by veteran local writers Tom Strini and Jon Anne Willow (of Third Coast Digest) and ubiquitous local actor John McGivern, introducing features on Milwaukee-related arts figures, both those working in painting and sculpture, as well as the performing arts. Even locally-produced animation films serve as links between the main features. I particularly enjoyed McGivern’s behind-the-scenes look at the taxidermy shop at the Milwaukee Public Museum included on the debut program.

So far, three programs have been produced. MPTV apparently is waiting on viewer response to determine if there will be more.

For broadcast times, check local listings, consult mptv.org.

World Café, Monday-Friday, 6-8 pm, WYMS (Radio Milwaukee 88.9)

Back in April, Milwaukee radio icon Bob Reitman shocked the audience of his weekly WUWM show It’s Alright Ma, It’s Only Music by announcing that the station’s long-running daily show World Café would be dropped from the lineup the following week. The syndicated two-hour show, produced in Philadelphia with host David Dye, is a mix of new and vintage album tracks, artist interviews and live performances, and had become a fixture on 89.7. In fact, the show co-presented a number of concerts at the Pabst Theater with the station, so strong was the program’s brand.

In a press release, WUWM Program Director Bruce Winter stated the program “no longer met the program needs of our audience.” Journal Sentinel columnist Duane Dudek noted Winter’s assessment that the program had gradually skewed to “a younger demographic,” and opined that this was alienating the station’s core donor group, comprising a much older demographic. WUWM has filled the void with daily rebroadcasts of Terry Gross’s Fresh Air from 6-8 pm, followed by WUWM Tonight, four hours of “locally programmed” music hosted by Winter or Amanda Shalhoub from 8-midnight. The featured music sounds pretty much like the music already featured on WUWM2, available on HD or online.

In the meantime, World Café was not a Milwaukee orphan for long. WYMS (RadioMilwaukee), already boasting the nationally syndicated music talk show Sound Opinions in its lineup, quickly added World Café to its lineup on May 10, much to the relief of the show’s local fans.

By the way, on Thursdays one can catch World Café from 6-8 pm, although, unfortunately frequently pre-empted by Milwaukee Public School board meeting broadcasts, dovetailing nicely into Reitman’s show from 8-10 pm. So listeners can get the best of both worlds.

Rolling Stones, Exile on Main St. (Deluxe Reissue)

Rolling Stones, Stones in Exile DVD

In 2009, Universal Music acquired rights to the Rolling Stones’ post-1970 catalog, marking the first time the legendary band’s output has been under the control of a single label.

However, one title was conspicuously absent from the list of reissued albums: their 1972 Exile on Main St, considered by many the Stones’ ultimate masterpiece. The label responded by saying Exile was scheduled for a “very special” reissue in 2010.

In May, we found out how “special” this reissue was. Spurred by hype surpassed only by the publicity preceding the Beatles CD catalog upgrade, the band released Exile in a special deluxe two-disc reissue. The first disc is the original double LP, which now sounds better than ever. The sound has better definition, with more punch in the rhythm section, and the vocals coming through much better than in previous incarnations of the album. It’s Disc Two that has stirred up the fans’ passion. Rather than outtakes and alternate versions of songs reportedly were to be included, Stones Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, along with producer Don Was, took “works-in-progress” tapes from the Exile sessions and added 2010 lyrics, vocals and instrumental work (even former Stones guitarist Mick Taylor was reportedly brought in to add some new parts). The songs certainly sound OK, but compared to those songs that made the original album’s final cut, they just don’t hold a candle. At least, the label gives fans the option of buying the “deluxe” edition or just the original album.

Perhaps more intriguing is the 2010 movie Stones in Exile, which is a behind-the-scenes look at the classic album’s sessions, complete with previously unseen home movies and new interviews with the album’s principals. The DVD edition contains over an hour of extra goodies not seen in the movie. Now this is a real find for Stones fans.

Carole King and James Taylor, Live at the Troubadour

In 2008, old friends James Taylor and Carole King got together for a special show at the legendary LA club. And it truly was special, with spirited versions of each of their many hits, along with several opportunities for duets, including a rendition of King’s all-time classic “You’ve Got a Friend,” that really tugs at the old heartstrings. The overwhelming response to the concert led to a 2010 tour by the duo, as well as this souvenir release of the Troubadour show. Not only do you get the CD of the music, but also a DVD of the entire show which also contains delightful intros to many of the songs. It’s one of 2010’s best releases.

Steve Miller Band, Bingo! (Deluxe Edition)

Steve Winwood, Revolutions: The Very Best of Steve Winwood

A couple of rock veterans, both named Steve, have new releases out.

Coinciding with his current tour, which included an appearance at Summerfest, Steve Winwood’s Revolutions updates his 90’s compilation Finer Things. It’s available in either a single-disc edition or a four-CD boxed set. Considering his over four-decade career, a single CD hardly does the man justice. And since the boxed set is very reasonably priced, I would certainly opt for the box. The tracks, going back to his 60’s days with the Spencer Davis Group, sound great, although some have pointed out the set is heavily weighted in favor of his Traffic material at the expense of his solo career in the 80’s and beyond. One should be aware that Winwood himself selected the tracks in the collection, so these are the tracks he feels best represent his legacy. Since Traffic is now recognized as one of the most innovative bands in rock history, I can’t argue with his choices.

Bingo! is native and former UW-Madison student Steve Miller’s first new release since 1993’s Wide River. That’s seventeen years, folks, so Miller returned to the formula he used for his comeback in 1976. Back then, he recorded enough material for two albums, resulting in the spectacularly successful Fly Like An Eagle and Book of Dreams albums.

In 2009, Miller & Co. embarked for Skywalker Sound Studios in Marin County, California, and once again laid down enough tracks for two albums. However, this time Miller elected to cut his takes on blues classics that heavily influenced his career. Also, “Snortin’” Norton Buffalo, a longtime Miller Band cohort, passed away last year, leaving a huge void in the band lineup. However, “Stevie Guitar” found himself a pearl in his search to replace Buffalo.

“Black Pearl,” that is. Sonny Charles, lead vocalist for 60’s soul group Checkmates Ltd has come aboard and looks to be the perfect foil for Miller’s guitar and vocals.

Bingo! is the first release from those Skywalker sessions, with the balance scheduled for 2011 release (just in time for next year’s summer tour). And if you dig classic blues, you’re in for a summertime treat of great listening. “Rock Me Baby,” “Come On (Let the Good Times Roll),” “Ain’t That Lovin’ You Baby,” “Further On Up the Road,” and “Drivin’ Wheel,” are among the gems featured here. The love Miller has for these tunes is obvious in the grooves of this album, and I’ll be enjoying it, while eagerly awaiting the next volume.

The Steve Miller Band performs at the Wisconsin State Fair on August 10th. For info see to wisstatefair.com.

Clapton lures big stars to Summerfest 2010

When Eric Clapton announced in February he was bringing his Crossroads Guitar Festival back to Chicago on June 26, perhaps nobody was happier than Summerfest Music Director Bob Babisch. Now why would Babisch be overjoyed about a festival in Chicago, especially one going on at the same time as Summerfest?

Babisch has arguably the most challenging job in the music business. First, he has to book all the talent on over a dozen stages for a 10-day music festival. Now that might sound like a dream job for a hardcore music fan (which Babisch is), and you can be sure he has a “dream list” of acts he’d love to bring to Summerfest.

But there’s the rub. Summerfest takes place during a 10-day window each year, so Babisch is at the mercy of the tour schedules of the acts he wants. The first concern is if the acts will even be touring during Summerfest. Then he needs to see if the acts’ tour routing will bring them near Milwaukee during the festival’s run. Summerfest always takes place during the height of the European festival season (For example, England’s famous Glastonbury and Hard Rock Calling-Hyde Park festivals occur during Summerfest’s opening weekend). So that eliminates a lot of potential acts right there.

Which is where Clapton’s extravaganza comes in. Thanks to his ability to bring in anybody he wants to play Crossroads, a lot of big music stars will be in the area during Summerfest. Looking at the Summerfest lineup, names like Jeff Beck, Sheryl Crow, Steve Winwood, Robert Randolph, and ZZ Top probably wouldn’t be coming here if they weren’t already committed to the Crossroads fest. In fact, Slowhand himself will be headlining Summerfest on June 28, two days after Crossroads.

ZZ Top’s booking at Summerfest is most interesting. The “little ol’ band from Texas” will be opening for Tom Petty (the only time the two bands will be sharing the bill this year) on Friday, June 25. Top will then head down to Chicago and play Crossroads the next day, then return to Milwaukee and again open for TP that evening!

Very nice… With results like this, I reckon Babisch wishes Clapton would have a Crossroads festival in Chicago every year during Summerfest.

Summerfest 2010 runs June 24-July 4. More info: summerfest.com.

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United Performing Arts Fund 2010 Annual Campaign, now through June 22

UPAF Ride for the Arts, June 6

I hope you read the article in last month’s Compass covering the budget cuts facing Milwaukee Public Schools. I noticed certain phrases popping up over and over again. Phrases like “arts programs to be cut,” “no music teacher,” and so forth. So what does this have to do with the UPAF 2010 campaign? As it turns out, the member groups of UPAF (including the Milwaukee Symphony, Florentine Opera, Milwaukee Ballet, Milwaukee Rep and Skylight Opera) all, as part of their respective missions, include educational programs that provide opportunities for students to experience the arts.

Eliminate these groups and their programs, and many students will be likely to never have exposure to the arts. And it’s been proven time and time again that students participating in arts programs get better grades and are more likely to succeed as adults. So your support of UPAF not only ensures that Milwaukee’s arts groups continue to thrive, but their educational programs will still be there for our kids in the face of budget cuts.

UPAF’s biggest single event, the Ride for the Arts, takes place on June 6, as thousands of cyclists take to area roads and streets to raise funds for the fund. If you’re unable to participate, you can still donate to the UPAF campaign. Now through the end of the campaign June 22, every dollar you pledge will be matched by a challenge grant, so your gift will be doubled! And at certain pledge levels, you qualify for a UPAF SmartCard that entitles you to discount tickets for UPAF member group performances. Now how’s that for a win-win situation?

For more info on the UPAF campaign and the Ride for the Arts, call (414) 273-8723, or see upaf.org.

Chill on the Hill, Humboldt Park, Tuesdays at 6:30 pm, June 8-August 31

Jazz in the Park, Cathedral Square Park, Thursdays at 6 pm, June 4-September 2

The arrival of summer brings the return of two Milwaukee mainstays bringing free music performances weekly throughout the season.

Our own Chill on the Hill at Humboldt Park features performances from acts including the Great Lakes Navy Band, Leroy Airmaster, Mike Benign Compulsion, 5 Card Studs, Juniper Tar, Decibully, and Paul Cebar’s Tomorrow Sound, among many others.

The granddaddy of them all, Jazz in the Park, has in its 2010 lineup Bad Plus, Bonerama, La Chazz, and Swing Nouveau.

And remember, all performances are free! For more info on Chill on the Hill see bayviewneighborhood.org. Info on Jazz in the Park can be found at easttown.com.

Leroy Airmaster, Live at Turner Hall

One of Milwaukee’s alltime great bands, Leroy Airmaster (featuring Milwaukee harmonica great Steve Cohen), is back, and from the sounds of their just-released CD, haven’t missed a beat. Recorded at two recent gigs at Turner Hall Ballroom, the CD features covers of songs by the likes of Otis Rush, Taj Mahal, Percy Mayfield, and Jackie Brenston, plus originals from band members Cohen and Bill Stone. The band rocks on this great-sounding disc, and makes a great souvenir for the band’s many fans.

Leroy Airmaster performs at Chill on the Hill at Humboldt Park on June 22nd (bayviewneighborhood.org), at Summerfest’s Big Backyard stage on June 27th (summerfest.com), and River Rhythms at Pere Marquette Park on July 7th with another Milwaukee favorite, Junior Brantley (westown.org). CD’s are available at cdbaby.com.

Jamie Breiwick 5 & 6, Live In Milwaukee

Trumpeter/composer Jamie Breiwick has been a mainstay of the Milwaukee jazz scene, thanks to his involvement with his own band, Choir Fight, as well as the salsa group De La Buena and the We Six sextet at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. His latest CD was recorded at gigs at the conservatory, Highbury in Bay View, and the WMSE studios. He is joined by veteran local jazz musicians, including versatile tenor saxman Aaron Gardner (also heard on the great new album from Kings Go Forth, previously reviewed here) and guitarist Steve Peplin.

Breiwick’s composition “Tunity” is featured along with some great renditions of Miles Davis classics including “Blue in Green,” “Flamenco Sketches,” and “In a Silent Way/It’s About That Time.” Fans of straight ahead, or “real” jazz, will delight in these performances. Thanks to talented musicians like Breiwick and his cohorts, the Milwaukee jazz scene will continue to thrive.

Jamie Breiwick performs at Jazz in the Park in Cathedral Square Park; with his own band Choir Fight on June 10 and the We Six sextet on June 24 (easttown.com), as well as with De La Buena at Summerfest’s Harley-Davidson Roadhouse on July 4 (summerfest.com) and Jackson Park on August 24. For CD’s and/or more info see jamiebreiwick.com.

Various Artists, 100 Hits-Dad

Various Artists, 100 Hits-American Songbook

Well, Father’s Day is just around the corner, and what is the perfect gift for that music-loving dad? Once again, England’s Demon Music (home of previous 100 Hits collections Halloween, Christmas and Irish Party) hits the bullseye with two great new comps.

100 Hits–Dad’s five CD’s feature tracks from the 60’s to the present, with the emphasis on Classic Rock.

The music runs the gamut from Vanilla Fudge’s “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” and Lalo Schifrin’s theme from Bullitt (!) to Garbage’s “Stupid Girl” and Polyphonic Spree’s “Light & Day.” Even Milwaukee’s Violent Femmes’ “Blister in the Sun” makes the cut, nestled amongst tracks from Velvet Underground, the Monkees, Faith No More, Dinosaur Jr., the Stooges and Jane’s Addiction. I think you get the idea. Dad’ll dig it big time-that is, if you can manage to give it up yourself!

Now, if dear old Dad is a bit older than Boomer age, not to worry. Demon has him covered with 100 Hits–American Songbook. This set contains five CD’s of nothing less than the cream of songs by masters like George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Richard Rodgers, Cole Porter, and many others. Befitting these classics, the performances featured here are themselves classics, including artists such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Rosemary Clooney, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Peggy Lee, Fred Astaire…the list goes on and on. An amazing collection, and at an amazingly low price as well.

Both collections are available at Amazon.co.uk.

Metro Jam, Washington Park, Manitowoc, June 18 and 19

One of the great English ska bands, the English Beat, will be performing at Milwaukee’s Pabst Theater in July, when they open for another legendary band, Squeeze. So you can wait until then, or you could set out for Manitowoc’s Washington Park on June 19 and see them when they headline the 2010 Metro Jam festival. This annual event, which has been going for over 30 years, is a fun family festival that just happens to showcase some great regional, national, and in the case of English Beat, international acts.

And this year’s event features an exceptionally strong lineup. The fun gets started on Friday, June 18 when Milwaukee soul greats Harvey Scales and the Seven Sounds take the stage. The music resumes at noon the next day with a lineup that includes the fine Wisconsin band Wildbirds, English reggae great Pato Banton, veteran singer/songwriter Marshall Crenshaw (“You’re My Favorite Waste of Time,” “Someday, Some Way”), and finishes off with English Beat featuring hits including “Mirror in the Bathroom,” “Save It For Later,” and their classic cover of “Tears of a Clown.”

And it’s all FREE! Think of it as a less-crowded Jazz in the Park, and food and beverages are provided by the Manty Jaycees (the deep fried cheese curds are a big favorite). It’s all over by 10pm, so it all makes for a perfect opportunity to take that day trip out of town to enjoy great music and get warmed up for Summerfest the following week.

For more info, see metrojam.org.

Various Artists, Listen Up! The Official FIFA 2010 World Cup Album

Various Artists, England The Album 2010

Various Artists, Back of the Net!

Various Artists, Great Expectations: The Football Album

Various Artists, 100 Hits-Football Anthems (2010 World Cup Edition)

While baseball may be the national pastime, the eyes of the rest of the world are focused on South Africa for the world’s most-watched sports event-the World Cup soccer (or “football” to true believers of The Beautiful Game) tournament, which opens on June 11. One needs only to see the above list of newly released Cup-related music compilations for proof, just the thing for your World Cup party when Team USA takes on England in their opening match on June 12.

Listen Up! is the officially sanctioned FIFA CD, and the only one available domestically. While it features familiar names like R. Kelly, Shakira, Wyclef Jean, and Matisyahu, it’s also nice to see South Africa’s rich musical tradition is well represented. Angelique Kidjo, Nneka, Claudia Leitte, Siphiwo, and the Soweto Spiritual Singers are present. Even South African icon Nelson Mandela puts in a cameo appearance, helping to make Listen Up! a nice musical souvenir of World Cup 2010.

The English simply have to be the world’s most rabid soccer fans, based on the many football-related CD’s available for World Cup 2010. (And you thought there was an overabundance of Packers CD’s!) While some songs appear on several of these comps, each has its own distinct flavor. England the Album 2010 is the “official” World Cup album. You’ll find Queen’s “We Are the Champions” here, along with football favorites old and new from artists like Tina Turner, Chumbawamba, the Farm, Oasis, and many more.

And it looks like Camp Randall fans aren’t the only ones that “Jump Around” during football games. Yep, House of Pain’s anthem is here as well. And all these CD’s contain a rendition of the English anthem “Land of Hope and Glory,” familiar to us as the graduation march “Pomp and Circumstance.”

Back of the Net probably is the best bargain of the bunch, with a whopping 27 tracks on one CD. This one offers Chumbawamba’s worldwide smash “Top of the World,” which contains the “Ole, ole, ole” chant that has become the international mantra of soccer. It also features Gerry and the Pacemakers’ rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from the Broadway classic Carousel that became a theme song for Liverpool FC and has since been adopted as the anthem for English soccer. Plenty of classic novelty tracks abound here, including Monty Python’s “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” Rolf (“Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport”) Harris’ “Football Crazy,” and the England World Cup 1986 Squad’s “We’ve Got The Whole World at Our Feet.” You know they’re serious about their football in England when even their World Cup squads make records, a tradition going back to 1970!

Great Expectations complements Back of the Net nicely, including skiffle rocker Lonnie Donegan’s “World Cup Willie,” Sham 69’s “If the Kids Are United,” the Jam’s “Saturday’s Kids,” the Spencer Davis Group’s “Keep On Running,” Sergio Mendes’ classic “Mas Que Nada,” Kool & the Gang’s “Celebration,” Dexy’s Midnight Runners’ “Come On Eileen,” themes from long-running TV programs Match of the Day, and Sportsnight, capped by a rousing rendition of “There’ll Always Be An England” from the England World Cup 1970 Squad.

But when it comes to taking the prize, the cup once again has to go to Demon Music Group, this time for the amazing 100 Hits-Football Anthems. Like their previous collections for Halloween, Christmas, and St. Patrick’s Day, this one has 80 tracks on four CD’s, plus a karaoke DVD packed with sing-along anthems for that World Cup party, including “We Are the Champions,” “Beautiful Day,” “All Together Now,” “A Little Less Conversation”, “Eat My Goal,” and, of course, the classic English anthem “Jerusalem.”

The first three CD’s contain 60 pop and novelty tracks including “Come On England,” “Stand Up 4 England,” “The Beautiful Game,” “Getta Bloomin’ Move On,” “Sven Sven Sven,” “Is This The Way to the World Cup?,” “Who Do You Think You’re Kidding Jurgen Klinsmann?,” “Whole Wide World 4 England,” “Viva Bobby Moore,” and“We’re All in This Together.” Even Monty Python’s John Cleese makes a cameo appearance on the song “Don’t Mention the World Cup.” And what’s this? The Violent Femmes’ “Blister in the Sun” makes the roster, alongside the Ramones’ “Blitzkrieg Bop.”

The fourth disc is packed with classical themes that are natural background music for football highlight footage, along with the inevitable “God Save the Queen” and “Rule Britannia.” These collections are available at Amazon.co.uk.

Hi Ho, Let’s Go!!

RiverSplash out, Verge Music Festival in

For the past two decades, Milwaukee’s RiverSplash festival heralded the arrival of summer. However, due to economic bad times and increasing security concerns (along with being dogged by notoriously nasty weather), organizers of the downtown festival decided earlier this year to table this year’s event.

Leaping into the breach created by the absence of RiverSplash is Milwaukee’s newest summer festival, called the Verge Music Festival, kicking off the summer festival season at Maier Festival Park on June 4-5.

As the name implies, the festival focuses on up-and-coming rock acts, both local and national, on the “verge” of making the big time, along with several veteran alt-rock favorites.

One of those veteran acts, Weezer, tops the festival bill. Also performing will by Three Days Grace, Eagles of Death Metal, Cold War Kids, She & Him, Rogue Wave, and the Raveonettes (the biggest act to emerge from Scandinavia since ABBA…or since Ace of Base at the very least!).

Local acts appearing include the Championship, Wild Birds, Invade Rome, Pezzettino, and Juniper Tar. Sounds like the making of a great time, and cross your fingers for good weather!

And here’s a tip: all Verge tickets purchased in advance also include a free Summerfest ticket so you get more musical bang for the buck. For more info, go to vergemusicfestival.com.

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Various Artists, Live At WMSE Volume 11

WMSE Spring Membership Drive, May 10-21

To coincide with WMSE’s Spring Membership Drive is the arrival of the 11^th volume in the Live at WMSE series.  Among the CD’s 13 tracks are local and national acts including Sarah Borges, Robbie Fulks, Greg Koch and Nation Sack, and the WhiskeyBelles.  As usual, all tracks were recorded in the WMSE studios, with great sound provided by veteran engineer Billy Ciccarelli.  You can get the new CD (as well as many past volumes in the series) by making a pledge during the member drive beginning Monday, May 10^th.  You can pledge online at wmse.org or calling 414-799-1917.  Also, there will be many exciting live in-studio performances throughout the pledge drive, some of which may end up on a future volume of Live at WMSE.

Jack Grassel and Jill Jensen, Live at the Carleton Grange Pub

Back in 2007, Eric Ellsworth, owner of the Carleton Grange Pub in St. Francis, wanted to feature something unique to go along with the pub’s Sunday brunch.  He brought in Milwaukee’s “First Couple of Jazz,” guitarist Jack Grassel and his wife, vocalist Jill Jensen, to perform for brunch patrons.  Three years later, their weekly appearances have become a Milwaukee weekend tradition which is being celebrated with this new CD recorded live at one of their Sunday brunch gigs.

Although the duo has released other CD’s, this marks the first CD on which they appear alone without other backing musicians. And what a treat it is just to hear Jill’s honey-soaked vocals complementing Jack’s intricate fret work.  The song menu is a nice mixture of originals and standards, and the recording sounds great!  Since they perform most of the time as a duo, it’s nice to finally have a CD that represents them in the way most people know them.  And here’s a tip:  the CD includes a drink coupon for the pub.  Why not use it when you catch Jack and Jill’s brunch gig?

CD’s are available at jackgrassel.com.  The Carleton Grange Pub is located at 3807 S. Packard Ave. in St. Francis.  The phone is 414-747-9669.

Pirate Radio DVD

Sneaking in and out of theatres quickly last November was this British flick that told the story of an offshore pirate radio station that played rock music for Britons when the BBC was unwilling to play it.  Although the stations were eventually shut down, BBC Radio 2 was born and continues broadcasting pop music to this very day (as observed in a past column). And now the movie is finally available on DVD and Blu-Ray.   It’s true the station depicted in the film is fictional, but the movie does a great job of capturing the spirit of the time during that moment in British music history.  Heading the cast is Philip Seymour Hoffman as the Yank DJ on the crew, evoking memories of his great turn as rock journalist Lester Bangs in another rock movie gem, Almost Famous. And watch for a great cameo performance from Emma Thompson!  Also deserving of equal billing is the film’s fab soundtrack, featuring a boatload of classic 60’s nuggets.

Saint-Saens Program with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, May 28-29, Marcus Center

French composer Camille Saint-Saens may not be a household name like Beethoven, Mozart or Tchaikovsky, but this late 19^th century composer left a body of work filled with gorgeous melodies, which the MSO is featuring on this program led by Music Director Edo de Waart.  In addition to the First Piano Concerto and the popular Danse macabre, a special treat is the opportunity to hear the Symphony No. 3 (”Organ”). It’s that rare beast where the organ is a featured soloist with a full orchestra, and it’s also a rare opportunity to hear the Marcus Center’s magnificent Miller pipe organ.  The symphony is a great showcase for both soloist and orchestra.

For more info go to mso.org or call 414-291-7605.

Jeff Beck, Emotion and Commotion

Many adjectives have been used to describe the fabulous career of guitar legend Jeff Beck.  Prolific is not one of them.  This is his first album in seven years, and it’s the best showcase of his virtuosity since his landmark instrumental album Blow by Blow back in 1975.  Several tracks feature guest vocalists Joss Stone and Imelda May (Stone’s turn on the blues classic “I Put a Spell on You” is a standout and the perfect match for Beck’s fiery guitar work).  But it’s the much-reported tracks on which Beck is backed by a 60-piece orchestra that are absolute gems.  His take on the classic opera aria “Nessun dorma” will leave guitarists’ jaws dropping, and the instrumental “Corpus Christi” is simply gorgeous.

Jimmy Page called Blow by Blow a “guitarist’s guitar album.”  It’s safe to say Emotion and Commotion makes a great bookend to that classic

Jeff Beck appears at Summerfest on June 25^th (alas, with no orchestra but a stellar backing band) with local guitar hero Greg “Gristlemeister” Koch opening.

A final aloha from the Man in Black

Easter is a season associated with life, hope, and renewal, so the arrival of Johnny Cash’s final album, American VI: Ain’t No Grave, couldn’t be better timed. Although it is his final musical testament, the album is filled with songs of anticipation and looking forward.

Like the other albums in the acclaimed American Recordings series, Ain’t No Grave is produced by Rick Rubin. The album hearkens back to the very first volume in the series in 1994 in that it’s very spare, mainly Cash’s voice and guitar. There are minimal additions from musicians like Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench from Tom Petty’s Heartbreakers and Scott and Seth Avett of the Avett Brothers Band.

But make no mistake, the spotlight is clearly on the Man in Black here. Mostly recorded in the weeks before his death in 2003, the vocals, ravaged by years of illness and the recent death of his beloved wife, June Carter Cash, are indeed shaky. But there is no doubt these performances are forthright. Rubin has said that working in the studio sustained Cash and gave him purpose in those final days.  »Read more

Exploring the amazing land of Britcomps

About a year ago I featured a very entertaining four-CD box set from the UK called 101 Housework Songs. Little did I realize then that I was opening a Pandora’s Box of wonderful musical treats. I have since discovered that nobody does compilation CDs (or “comps,” for short) like the Brits. You name it-musical genre, era, individual artists-chances are good there are comps available for them, often in huge quantity. After all, this is where the wildly successful NOW That’s What I Call Music! series got its start way back in 1984. The American version of the series launched in the ’90s and has reached a total of 32 volumes. However, the UK series is up to an astounding 74 volumes (plus spinoff collections like NOW That’s What I Call the ’00s, etc.)!

And therein lies the rub. With hundreds of these collections available from dozens of labels, which ones are surefire winners? To help you in your search (the best single source would be Amazon.co.uk), here’s a list of four labels releasing the most creative collections that are of consistently high quality, along with selected examples of each label’s offerings.

EMI/Virgin

They’re the home of the long-running NOW and “101 Songs” series, and also have access to the massive archives of EMI Records, though they license tracks from numerous other sources as well. In addition to titles previously reviewed, here are two more favorites:

The Cavern: The Most Famous Club in the World

Although these are not recordings made at the legendary Liverpool club, this three-CD set celebrates the club’s 50th anniversary, with tracks from everybody from Chuck Berry to Arctic Monkeys. It is also notable in that it may well be the only comp to include tracks from both the Rolling Stones (”It’s All Over Now”) and the Beatles (”Please Please Me”).

101 Dinner Party Songs

This just-released collection features many songs with food connections or will nicely complement any dinner party. It’s also amazing in the range of artists featured, from Frank Sinatra to Coldplay. Considering his disdain for Kenny G, it’s quite surprising to find a Richard Thompson track nestled alongside the mellow sax man’s “Songbird.”

Demon Music Group

This feisty label is the home of the 100 Hits and the newly-launched 100 Hits Legends series, where the focus is on one artist.

100 Hits-Movies

This five-CD set attracted me because it includes the hard-to-find Yello track “Oh Yeah” from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. This is a great collection of songs featured in movies from the past few decades. The CD booklet also tells you the names of the movies where these songs were heard.

100 Hits Legends-Nat King Cole

This five-CD set not only showcases the legendary pop crooner, but also features a generous selection of his early jazz trio tracks. Unless you’re looking for “Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer,” this set will not disappoint.

Union Square Music

Although a relative newcomer to the comps game, this label has made great strides with some of the most creative comps available.

The Ultimate Collection-Country

Although there are oodles of country comps available, this five-CD, 100-song anthology is arguably the most thoughtful set, containing tracks from legends like Hank Williams, Gene Autry, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline to contemporary stars such as the Mavericks, Gram Parsons, Steve Earle, and Alan Jackson.

The Ultimate Collection-50s Jukebox

Just like the country collection, this set has great breadth. Not only are there plenty of early rock classics (Elvis, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly), but many country (Johnny Cash, George Jones, Patsy Cline) and pop (Perry Como, Doris Day, Bobby Darin) standards. In other words, a complete 1950s jukebox.

Proper Music

Thanks to European copyright laws that expire after 50 years, there’s a proliferation of comps featuring tracks from the ’50s and before. This label has taken full advantage, creating generous blues, jazz, and pop anthologies, meticulously annotated and at surprisingly low cost.

In Perfect Harmony, Les Paul & Mary Ford

The late “Wizard of Waukesha” certainly gets his due in this four-CD collection, tracing his career from earliest sides to his “retirement” in the ’60s. All the great sides with Mary Ford are here, of course, as well as his solo and sideman work (particularly with Bing Crosby). This stuff still amazes, after all these years.

Roots of Led Zeppelin, Various Artists

This great set features three CDs packed with the original blues, country, and rock classics that were an undeniable influence on this band’s sound, along with a DVD featuring British and American music critics discussing the same.

As previously mentioned, a big reason these comps have been so popular is their low cost. The cost per song is usually lower than the price of downloading each individual song. But be forewarned: these comps are the musical version of Beanie Babies, if you get my drift.

Be sure to check out bayviewcompass.com for my online exclusive Now Hear These picks. This month I’m featuring great new local music from Chris DeMay and Juniper Tar, plus some great new Irish CDs out in time for St. Paddy’s Day, and a DVD featuring one of the greatest rock shows ever, available for the first time on home video.

NOW HEAR THESE!

Juniper Tar, The Howl Street EP
Chris Demay, Bigger Than Small

Local music releases are off to a running start for 2010, thanks to this pair of releases from one of Milwaukee’s great new bands, Juniper Tar.

Named after the Bay View studio where it was recorded, Howl Street picks up where their previous release, the idyllic To The Trees, left off. This four-song EP features more great Jason Mohr songs, and the sound is more polished than on To The Trees, which was recorded on location in a cabin upnorth. While it only hints at the power these guys can unleash onstage, it’s still a great follow-up to a really fine debut.

As if that weren’t enough, band member Chris Demay has released a solo CD, featuring bandmates from JT along with other local music luminaries (Check out the nifty steel guitar work here!). Bigger Than Small ably demonstrates that Mohr isn’t the only fine songwriter in the band. These Neil Young devotees wear their influences very well, indeed.

Taken together, these two EP’s add up to one solid album. The band’s CD is available at junipertar.com or cdbaby.com. The Demay disc is available at Rush Mor and Exclusive Co., or at bearriflerecords.com.

New Celtic Releases for St Patrick’s Day

Just like the annual blizzard of new Christmas CD’s in the fall, St Patrick’s Day brings a pot full of new releases from Celtic-related artists, and this year’s batch is a bumper crop indeed. Here’s a sampling of the most notable titles.

Various Artists. 100 Hits: Irish Party

Following up last year’s excellent 100 Hits: Halloween, Demon Music Group UK has this great 5-disc box guaranteed to liven up any St Pat’s soiree. The 4 CDs feature tracks from Irish music acts both contemporary (The Corrs, Ash, Hothouse Flowers, Divine Comedy) and traditional (Paddy Reilly, Christy Moore, Delores Keane). In fact, one CD is totally devoted to classic reels and jigs to get your ceili going strong. It’s topped off by a karaoke DVD filled with Irish sing-along favorites.

The Chieftains with Ry Cooder, San Patricio

It’s been awhile since we’ve had something new from the Chieftains, the world’s most recognized Celtic music group. St Patrick’s Day 2010 is cause for celebration with the release of San Patricio, on which the group is joined by ace guitarist and world music authority, Ry Cooder, who first worked with the Chieftains on 1995’s Long Black Veil. In addition, a host of Mexican music stars are on board as well. While it might appear a bit odd to see a mixing of Irish and Mexican musicians, it’s familiar turf for the Chieftains, whose mission is to show the pervasiveness of Celtic music in world culture. The title commemorates Irish immigrant conscripts who bolted the U.S. Army to fight on the Mexican side against the Yanks in the Mexican-American War in the 1800’s.

The album is also available in a deluxe edition with a bonus DVD that includes a “making of” documentary and 3 music videos.  The Chieftains (without Cooder) appear at the Pabst Theatre on March 6.

Solas, Turning Tide

Second only to the Chieftains in worldwide stature is the Irish-American super group Solas, led by Irish native Seamus Egan. They’re back with this new album that includes, along with the usual helping of traditional tunes, great covers of Springsteen’s “Ghost of Tom Joad” and Richard Thompson’s “Poor Ditching Boy.”

Altan, 25th Anniversary Celebration

Yet another great Celtic band has a new CD. Altan celebrates a quarter-century of thrilling audiences worldwide with this collection of handpicked songs from their vast catalog. As an added touch, the group is joined by Ireland’s RTE Concert Orchestra to make this a truly special event.

Flogging Molly, Live at the Greek Theatre

Dropkick Murphys, Live on Lansdowne

Still need fuel for your St Pat’s Party? Then get your mitts on these hot new live releases from arguably the two greatest Irish punk bands ever. And for good measure, both include DVD’s of the full concerts. Play these, consume generous quantities of Guinness, and plentiful rowdiness is guaranteed.

Various Artists, Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Various Artists, Sweetheart 2010

Hot on the heels of last month’s great One for My Baby collection, Starbucks’ music division strikes again with another pair of winners. The exquisitely packaged and annotated Mardi Gras is arguably the best single disc collection of New Orleans music ever. Louis Armstrong, Dr. John, Dixie Cups, Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, Smiley Lewis, Irma Thomas. Clarence “Frogman” Henry, Neville Brothers…16 absolutely classic tracks to help keep the celebration rolling…at least until the next Bastille Days festival in July.

Sweetheart continues Starbucks’ annual tradition of issuing collections of exclusive tracks from acts covering their favorite romantic songs. This year’s class includes Spoon, Yo La Tengo, the Avett Brothers, and Angelique Kidjo, covering songs by Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Paul McCartney, the Zombies…even ZZ Top!

Available for a limited time at Starbucks outlets, or go to starbucks.com/entertainment.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band & Special Guests, Preservation

Released on Fat Tuesday, this exceptional collection featuring the venerable New Orleans jazz band not only celebrates Crescent City music but is a fundraiser for Preservation’s music outreach program to ensure future generations carry on that great musical tradition. Among the highlights in an album filled with standout tracks are Paolo Nutini’s “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea,” Tom Waits’ “Tootie Ma Was A Big Fine Thing,” Merle Haggard’s “Basin Street Blues,” Richie Havens’ “Trouble In Mind,” Ani DiFranco’s “Freight Train,” Steve Earle’s “‘Tain’t Nobody’s Business,” and Blind Boys of Alabama’s “There Is A Light.” In all, there’s 19 tracks (25 on the Deluxe Edition), and you can count on this one making my Nifty Fifty for 2010.

Various Artists, The TAMI Show Collector’s Edition DVD

Quentin Tarantino has called it “the greatest rock and roll concert film ever made.” Ace producer Rick Rubin calls James Brown’s performance in it “the greatest rock performance ever committed to film.” Yet very few have ever seen this movie, taped at the First Annual Teen Age Music International Show (forever known as The TAMI Show) in Santa Monica, CA, in October 1964. This is a marvelous snapshot of a watershed moment in pop culture history, where the British Invasion collided head-on with Motown, Surf Music, Full Tilt R&B, and classic Rock & Roll. You know you’re in for something special when the show opens with a battle of the bands between rock godfather Chuck Berry and the latest sensations from the UK, Gerry & the Pacemakers. Just a listing of the show’s lineup is enough to make one’s jaw drop: the Beach Boys (seen for the first time since the film’s original release, and man, they’re rockin’!), Marvin Gaye, the Supremes, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, Lesley Gore, Billy J Kramer & the Dakotas and appearing during their first US tour, the Rolling Stones.

Jan & Dean were the show emcees, and the house band was Phil Spector’s legendary Wrecking Crew. My personal memory of seeing this show was at the Oriental Theatre back in the early 80’s, back when it was still a single-screen venue. The print was grainy and the sound was muffled, but there was no denying the electricity flowing throughout the show. Although I haven’t seen it since, I had been fervently hoping for the day this show would be available on home video to enjoy again and again.

The DVD doesn’t reach stores until March 23rd, but Chicago rock critic Jim DeRogatis, co-host of RadioMilwaukee’s Sound Opinions, has seen an advance copy of the DVD and told me that it was everything I hoped for, and “it was worth the wait.” The quality of sound and picture (made with an early form of high def called Electronovision) is superb, and the direction and camera work from Steve Binder (who would also direct Elvis Presley’s legendary1968 comeback special) has truly never looked better. As a bonus feature, you get Binder’s personal recollections of the show as a commentary track.

And if you don’t believe me, go to Amazon.com, look up this DVD and check out the raves in the customer feedback section. Several are personal recollections of attending the show in person or seeing the film in its original 1964 incarnation, and are quite touching.

If for nothing else, get this for the James Brown performance with the aptly named Famous Flames, and imagine Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones waiting in the wings to follow that!

Juniper Tar, The Howl Street EP

Chris Demay, Bigger Than Small

Local music releases are off to a running start for 2010, thanks to this pair of releases from one of Milwaukee’s great new bands, Juniper Tar.

Named after the Bay View studio where it was recorded, Howl Street picks up where their previous release, the idyllic To The Trees, left off. This four-song EP features more great Jason Mohr songs, and the sound is more polished than on To The Trees, which was recorded on location in a cabin upnorth. While it only hints at the power these guys can unleash onstage, it’s still a great follow-up to a really fine debut.

As if that weren’t enough, band member Chris Demay has released a solo CD, featuring bandmates from JT along with other local music luminaries (Check out the nifty steel guitar work here!). Bigger Than Small ably demonstrates that Mohr isn’t the only fine songwriter in the band. These Neil Young devotees wear their influences very well, indeed.

Taken together, these two EP’s add up to one solid album. The band’s CD is available at junipertar.com or cdbaby.com. The Demay disc is available at Rush Mor and Exclusive Co., or at bearriflerecords.com.

New Celtic Releases for St Patrick’s Day

Just like the annual blizzard of new Christmas CD’s in the fall, St Patrick’s Day brings a pot full of new releases from Celtic-related artists, and this year’s batch is a bumper crop indeed. Here’s a sampling of the most notable titles.

Various Artists. 100 Hits: Irish Party

Following up last year’s excellent 100 Hits: Halloween, Demon Music Group UK has this great 5-disc box guaranteed to liven up any St Pat’s soiree. The 4 CDs feature tracks from Irish music acts both contemporary (The Corrs, Ash, Hothouse Flowers, Divine Comedy) and traditional (Paddy Reilly, Christy Moore, Delores Keane). In fact, one CD is totally devoted to classic reels and jigs to get your ceili going strong. It’s topped off by a karaoke DVD filled with Irish sing-along favorites.

The Chieftains with Ry Cooder, San Patricio

It’s been awhile since we’ve had something new from the Chieftains, the world’s most recognized Celtic music group. St Patrick’s Day 2010 is cause for celebration with the release of San Patricio, on which the group is joined by ace guitarist and world music authority, Ry Cooder, who first worked with the Chieftains on 1995’s Long Black Veil. In addition, a host of Mexican music stars are on board as well. While it might appear a bit odd to see a mixing of Irish and Mexican musicians, it’s familiar turf for the Chieftains, whose mission is to show the pervasiveness of Celtic music in world culture. The title commemorates Irish immigrant conscripts who bolted the U.S. Army to fight on the Mexican side against the Yanks in the Mexican-American War in the 1800’s.

The album is also available in a deluxe edition with a bonus DVD that includes a “making of” documentary and 3 music videos.  The Chieftains (without Cooder) appear at the Pabst Theatre on March 6.

Solas, Turning Tide

Second only to the Chieftains in worldwide stature is the Irish-American super group Solas, led by Irish native Seamus Egan. They’re back with this new album that includes, along with the usual helping of traditional tunes, great covers of Springsteen’s “Ghost of Tom Joad” and Richard Thompson’s “Poor Ditching Boy.”

Altan, 25th Anniversary Celebration

Yet another great Celtic band has a new CD. Altan celebrates a quarter-century of thrilling audiences worldwide with this collection of handpicked songs from their vast catalog. As an added touch, the group is joined by Ireland’s RTE Concert Orchestra to make this a truly special event.

Flogging Molly, Live at the Greek Theatre

Dropkick Murphys, Live on Lansdowne

Still need fuel for your St Pat’s Party? Then get your mitts on these hot new live releases from arguably the two greatest Irish punk bands ever. And for good measure, both include DVD’s of the full concerts. Play these, consume generous quantities of Guinness, and plentiful rowdiness is guaranteed.

Various Artists, Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Various Artists, Sweetheart 2010

Hot on the heels of last month’s great One for My Baby collection, Starbucks’ music division strikes again with another pair of winners. The exquisitely packaged and annotated Mardi Gras is arguably the best single disc collection of New Orleans music ever. Louis Armstrong, Dr. John, Dixie Cups, Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, Smiley Lewis, Irma Thomas. Clarence “Frogman” Henry, Neville Brothers…16 absolutely classic tracks to help keep the celebration rolling…at least until the next Bastille Days festival in July.

Sweetheart continues Starbucks’ annual tradition of issuing collections of exclusive tracks from acts covering their favorite romantic songs. This year’s class includes Spoon, Yo La Tengo, the Avett Brothers, and Angelique Kidjo, covering songs by Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Paul McCartney, the Zombies…even ZZ Top!

Available for a limited time at Starbucks outlets, or go to starbucks.com/entertainment.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band & Special Guests, Preservation

Released on Fat Tuesday, this exceptional collection featuring the venerable New Orleans jazz band not only celebrates Crescent City music but is a fundraiser for Preservation’s music outreach program to ensure future generations carry on that great musical tradition. Among the highlights in an album filled with standout tracks are Paolo Nutini’s “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea,” Tom Waits’ “Tootie Ma Was A Big Fine Thing,” Merle Haggard’s “Basin Street Blues,” Richie Havens’ “Trouble In Mind,” Ani DiFranco’s “Freight Train,” Steve Earle’s “‘Tain’t Nobody’s Business,” and Blind Boys of Alabama’s “There Is A Light.” In all, there’s 19 tracks (25 on the Deluxe Edition), and you can count on this one making my Nifty Fifty for 2010.

Various Artists, The TAMI Show Collector’s Edition DVD

Quentin Tarantino has called it “the greatest rock and roll concert film ever made.” Ace producer Rick Rubin calls James Brown’s performance in it “the greatest rock performance ever committed to film.” Yet very few have ever seen this movie, taped at the First Annual Teen Age Music International Show (forever known as The TAMI Show) in Santa Monica, CA, in October 1964. This is a marvelous snapshot of a watershed moment in pop culture history, where the British Invasion collided head-on with Motown, Surf Music, Full Tilt R&B, and classic Rock & Roll. You know you’re in for something special when the show opens with a battle of the bands between rock godfather Chuck Berry and the latest sensations from the UK, Gerry & the Pacemakers. Just a listing of the show’s lineup is enough to make one’s jaw drop: the Beach Boys (seen for the first time since the film’s original release, and man, they’re rockin’!), Marvin Gaye, the Supremes, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, Lesley Gore, Billy J Kramer & the Dakotas and appearing during their first US tour, the Rolling Stones.

Jan & Dean were the show emcees, and the house band was Phil Spector’s legendary Wrecking Crew. My personal memory of seeing this show was at the Oriental Theatre back in the early 80’s, back when it was still a single-screen venue. The print was grainy and the sound was muffled, but there was no denying the electricity flowing throughout the show. Although I haven’t seen it since, I had been fervently hoping for the day this show would be available on home video to enjoy again and again.

The DVD doesn’t reach stores until March 23rd, but Chicago rock critic Jim DeRogatis, co-host of RadioMilwaukee’s Sound Opinions, has seen an advance copy of the DVD and told me that it was everything I hoped for, and “it was worth the wait.” The quality of sound and picture (made with an early form of high def called Electronovision) is superb, and the direction and camera work from Steve Binder (who would also direct Elvis Presley’s legendary1968 comeback special) has truly never looked better. As a bonus feature, you get Binder’s personal recollections of the show as a commentary track.

And if you don’t believe me, go to Amazon.com, look up this DVD and check out the raves in the customer feedback section. Several are personal recollections of attending the show in person or seeing the film in its original 1964 incarnation, and are quite touching.

If for nothing else, get this for the James Brown performance with the aptly named Famous Flames, and imagine Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones waiting in the wings to follow that!

Auntie Beeb knows music

An escape during this dreary season is as close as your PC. Thanks to the internet, we have access to thousands of radio stations worldwide. One that’s particularly near and dear to me is BBC 2, the station born from the demise of the ’60s renegade radio stations depicted in the recent film Pirate Radio.

BBC 2 is a pop music station all right, but one that embraces all genres of pop music. You may hear Frank Sinatra one minute, Kraftwerk the next. By day, the station is not unlike typical American Top 40 stations, mixing current hits and oldies with DJs and “chat” features. I find the British drive-time traffic reports quite amusing (remember, Britain is six hours ahead of Milwaukee time). But there’s more to BBC 2-much more.

What makes BBC 2 an absolute delight for me is the plethora of live concerts and documentary programs regularly broadcast on BBC 2. Over the past few months, I’ve heard concerts featuring Dame Shirley Bassey, including an incredible performance with the BBC Orchestra. Richard Hawley sang a song with her that he composed for Bassey. The very next day I heard an electrifying performance by Smokey Robinson before a rabid audience of Motown-crazy Brits. I also heard a fantastic ABBA tribute from London’s Hyde Park that featured the cream of British pop along with a special appearance by Benny Andersson and his band.

Above all, though, it’s the “docs” that really do it for me. In the past several months, some of the radio documentaries I listened to were:

The Man Machine: The Kraftwerk Story

Jarvis Cocker of Pulp narrates this great 60-minute documentary about the history of the great German band and the Krautrock movement. It brilliantly shows their profound influence on current pop music, including great comments from Afrika Bambaataa among many others. A great story comes from Coldplay’s Chris Martin, who recalled writing a letter (in German) to Kraftwerk seeking permission to sample a riff from “Computer Love” for one of Coldplay’s songs.

Super Bad, Super Cool

Blaxploitation film star Pam Grier narrates the hour-long documentary about music from legends Isaac Hayes, Curtis Mayfield, and Bobby Womack, among many others, who were an essential element of these movies’ success and of their influence on contemporary filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino. As BBC notes, the unfortunately named genre, “blaxploitation,” embodies films that emerged in the ’70s featuring all-black casts, great soul, R&B, and jazzy soundtracks.

The Beatles: Here, There, and Everywhere

London-based American music journalist Paul Gambaccini, host of his own Saturday afternoon BBC 2 show featuring current pop, narrates this great two-hour program about how the Beatles created their musical magic. The music is enhanced with great comments from the likes of super-producer Rick Rubin, Jeff Lynne of ELO, Tom Petty, and Heart’s Nancy Wilson. One particularly great story comes from Brian Wilson who recalls his ecstatic reaction the first time he heard George Harrison’s sitar on “Norwegian Wood.”

Monty Python’s Wonderful World of Sound

Celebrating the great comedy troupe’s 40th anniversary, this documentary focuses on their classic comedy albums. It shows how Python succeeded in translating their manic humor to vinyl in the days before home video existed. Comments from all the Pythons, except John Cleese and the late Graham Chapman, are featured, as well as insights about Python music from cohort, and ex-Bonzo Dog Band member, Neil Innes.

Brass Britain

Celebrating one of Britain’s most beloved musical institutions-prominently featured in the Ewan McGregor movie Brassed Off-this four-part series chronicles the history of the British brass band. It also brilliantly describes national brass band competitions, followed with as much fervor in the UK as American Idol is followed here. It also shows how these bands helped unite the British in times of national crisis.

These documentaries can be heard anytime via podcast, but there is a catch. They are available for only one week after their original broadcast, so you must check regularly to see what’s currently available. The website is bbc.co.uk/radio2/programmes/formats/documentaries. BBC 2’s homepage is bbc.co.uk/radio2 to access all station programming and program schedules. Since BBC is public broadcasting, the programs are presented commercial-free.

NOW HEAR THESE

Paul Cebar, One Little Light On

Most people know veteran Milwaukee musician Paul Cebar as the front man for Paul Cebar and Tomorrow Sound (formerly Paul Cebar and the Milwaukeeans). But for those lucky enough to see him perform solo opening for acts like Nick Lowe have seen a different Cebar-a balladeer accompanied only by his acoustic guitar. This is what you get on his new CD. Mostly composed of originals sprinkled with choice covers, including musical cohort John Sieger’s “I Painted Your Face,” which serves as the album’s closing track), this CD perfectly captures the essence of the solo Cebar and is a most welcome addition to Paul’s recorded catalog.

CD available at cdbaby.com.

The Exotics, Lost Album

Keeping alive the spirit of great instrumental bands like the Ventures, the Exotics were a mainstay of the Milwaukee music scene in the 90s. After a too-lengthy hiatus, the band returned in 2009, capped by an appearance on Garrison Keillor’s Prairie Home Companion radio show and the release of this CD.

Presented in “Surfonic sound,” the album is comprised of tracks recorded for a 90s release but never released. It wound up being shelved until now. I say, better late than never! Featuring mostly band originals plus some nifty covers (the Ventures’ “Lonely Girl” along with Herb Alpert & the TJB’s “Whipped Cream,” best known as the theme from the old Dating Game TV series), this cool disc will help get your party started.

You can get the CD at Bay View’s own Rush Mor Records.

‘S Wonderful: The Music of George Gershwin, Marvin Hamlisch and the Milwaukee Symphony Pops and pianist Kevin Cole, Feb. 5-7, Marcus Center

Last season MSO Pops conductor Hamlisch presented a tribute to legendary American composer Richard Rodgers that was one of the year’s great musical highlights. Now, the award-winning composer turns his attention to another American musical icon, George Gershwin, for a program not to be missed. Along with a generous serving of Gershwin standards like “Embraceable You” and “Summertime,” pianist Cole is also scheduled to join in on the festivities. Is a performance of the immortal Rhapsody in Blue in the cards?

Tickets and info available at mso.org, or call Luther, Al or Mike at (414) 291-7605.

Sound Opinions Live, February 19, Pabst Theatre

Chicago rock journalists Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot host the long-running nationally syndicated radio program Sound Opinions, heard locally on RadioMilwaukee 88.9 FM. They are to pop music what Siskel and Ebert were to movies, providing thoughtful discourse and interviews about the current music scene. The duo brings their show to the Pabst for a special Milwaukee presentation, in which they’ll discuss rock music in the movies, featuring film clips interspersed throughout the evening. Tickets are $10, about the price of most first-run flicks these days, and this show is likely to be more enjoyable.

Tickets and info available at pabsttheatre.org or call (414) 286-3663.

Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons with violinist Frank Almond, guest conductor Nicholas McGegan and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, February 18-21, Marcus Center

How’s this for an unbeatable combination: MSO’s popular concertmaster Almond as soloist with conductor McGegan, one of the MSO’s most popular guest conductors ever with both musicians and audiences, and the magnificent MSO performing one of the most beloved works in the classical oeuvre? Throw in Schubert’s 4th Symphony, and you have the makings of the one of the best classical music evenings this year. And make sure you attend either the “conversations” performance on the 18th or the pre-concert talk beginning an hour before the other performances during which the witty English conductor McGegan will be holding court.

Tickets and info available at mso.org or call (414) 291-7605.

Various Artists, Hope for Haiti Now

In case you missed the telethon event on January 22nd, or would like to get the musical performances from the program, they are now available for download by going to iTunes.com/Haiti. You can get the entire collection for $7.99. While all the performances are great, particular standouts include Stevie Wonder’s emotional take on “Bridge Over Troubled Water;” equally emotional renditions of “I’ll Stand by You” by Shakira and “Let It Be” by Jennifer Hudson; Sting’s driving acoustic take on the Police classic “Driven to Tears” featuring Chris Botti on trumpet; John Legend’s charged rendition of “Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child;” Madonna’s “Like A Prayer” complete with gospel choir; and the new song “Stranded” featuring Jay-Z, Rhianna, Bono, and the Edge. Also included are songs from Coldplay and Dave Matthews teaming up with Neil Young, among many others. I’d say that was well worth the price. And by the way, all proceeds from download sales will be given to Haitian relief.

The Nifty 50 of 2009 and a whole lot more of Randy Otto’s 2009 Favorites

As is customary at this time of year, it’s time to take a look back at the highlights of the past year. So, here’s my list of the best new albums released in 2009.

2009 Nifty 50

1. Levon Helm, Electric Dirt
2. Bob Dylan, Together through Life
3. Richard Hawley, Truelove’s Gutter
4. Shemekia Copeland, Never Going Back
5. Neko Case, Middle Cyclone
6. Them Crooked Vultures
7. Mark Knopfler, Get Lucky
8. Paul Cebar, One Little Light On
9. Rosanne Cash, The List
10. The Blue Note 7, Mosaic: A Celebration of Blue Note Records
11. Animal Collective, Merriweather Post Pavilion
12. Paul McCartney, Good Evening New York City
13. Buckwheat Zydeco, Lay Your Burden Down
14. Original Soundtrack, The Songs from Glee, Volumes 1 & 2
15. Bruce Springsteen, Working on a Dream
16. Melody Gardot, My One and Only Thrill
17. Jack Grassel & Guillermo Espinasse, El Refugio
18. Grizzly Bear, Veckatimest
19. Wilco, Wilco
20. The Flaming Lips, Embryonic
21. Rod Stewart, Soulbook
22. U2, No Line on the Horizon
23. Barbra Streisand, Love Is the Answer
24. Dream Theater, Black Clouds & Silver Linings
25. Ian Hunter, Man Overboard
26. Neil Young, Fork in the Road
27. Pezzettino, Lion
28. John Doe and the Sadies, Country Club
29. Van Morrison, Astral Weeks Live at the Hollywood Bowl
30. Monsters of Folk
31. Florence and the Machine, Lungs
32. Lily Allen, It’s Not Me, It’s You
33. Alicia Keys, The Element of Freedom
34. Leonard Cohen, Live in London
35. Tom Waits, Glitter and Doom Live
36. Muse, The Resistance
37. Nellie McKay, Normal as Blueberry Pie: A Tribute to Doris Day
38. PurgAtory Hill
39. Green Day, 21st Century Breakdown
40. Arctic Monkeys, Humbug
41. Gordon Gano & the Ryans, Under the Sun
42. Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood, Live from Madison Square Garden
43. Porcupine Tree, The Incident
44. Madness, The Liberty of Norton Folgate
45. Yeah Yeah Yeahs, It’s Blitz!
46. Benny Andersson Band, Story of a Heart
47. R.E.M., Live at the Olympia
48. Matthew Sweet & Susanna Hoffs, Under the Covers, Volume 2
49. Kasabian, West Rider Pauper Lunatic Asylum
50. Phoenix, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

MORE 2009 RANDY OTTO FAVORITES —LOOKING BACK AT THE BEST IN MUSIC 2009

As is customary at this time of year, it’s time to take a look back at the highlights of the past year. So, here’s my list of the best new albums released in 2009. Check out my column on the Compass website for my list of favorite reissues, music DVD’s and live gigs from last year!

Booker T, Potato Hole

Allen Toussaint, The Bright Mississippi

John Fogerty, The Blue Ridge Rangers Rides Again

Drivin N Cryin, The Great American Bubble Factory

The Bad Plus, For All I Care

Ray Davies, The Kinks Choral Collection

Pearl Jam, Backspacer

Maria Muldaur, Garden of Joy

Madeleine Peyroux, Bare Bones

The Decemberists, The Hazards of Love

Elvis Costello, Secret, Profane & Sugarcane

Andrew Bird, Noble Beast

Cheap Trick, The Latest

Béla Fleck, Throw Down Your Heart

Steve Martin, The Crow

Avett Brothers, I And Love And You

Willie Nelson, American Classic

Various Artists, Dark Was the Night

Various Artists, War Child Presents Heroes

FROM THE VAULTS

Nick Lowe, Quiet Please: The New Best of Nick Lowe (Deluxe Edition)

The Beatles, Stereo and Mono Box Sets

Various Artists, Atlantic Records: Time Capsule

Neil Young, Archives: Volume 1, 1963-1972

Miles Davis, Kind of Blue (Legacy Edition)

Richard Thompson, Walking on a Wire 1968-2009

Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, The Live Anthology

The Who, Who Sell Out (Deluxe Edition)

King Crimson, In the Court of the Crimson King (40th Anniversary Edition)

Leonard Cohen, Live at the Isle of Wight

Various Artists, Woodstock—40 Years On: Back to Yasgur’s Farm

Bee Gees, The Ultimate Bee Gees (Deluxe Edition)

Big Star, Keep an Eye on the Sky

Various Artists, Where the Action Is! Los Angeles Nuggets 1965-1968

Neil Young, Dreamin’ Man Live ‘92

AC/DC, Backtracks

Genesis, Genisis Live 1973-2007

Dave Brubeck, Time Out (50th Anniversary Legacy Edition)

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Various Artists, 101 Pirate Radio Hits

Various Artists, Rockin’ with the Pirates—Big Hits, Classic Tracks & Lost Gems

Various Artists, 101 Housework Songs

Various Artists, 100 Hits: Halloween

Various Artists, 101 Golden Memories

Various Artists, 101 Running Songs

Various Artists, 100 Hits—Wartime Memories

Various Artists, 101 Indie Classics

Various Artists, The Roots of Led Zeppelin

Various Artists, Golden Age of American Popular Music: Hits with Strings & Things—Hot 100 Instrumentals

Various Artists, Playing for Change

Various Artists, Chartbusters USA: Sunshine Pop Edition

Various Artists, Theme Time Radio Hour: Season 2-With Your Host Bob Dylan

Various Artists, The Woodstock Experience

Various Artists, Complete Introduction to Northern Soul

Various Artists, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Live

Various Artists, Woodstock (40th Anniversary Edition-Director’s Cut)

Various Artists, 111 Years of Deutsche Grammophon

Michael Jackson, This Is It

Elvis Presley, From Elvis in Memphis (Legacy Edition)

Frank Sinatra, New York, New York

James Brown, Live at the Garden

Dolly Parton, Dolly

Charles Mingus, Mingus Ah Um (50th Anniversary Legacy Edition)

Hank Williams, Hank Williams Revealed: The Unreleased Recordings

Rod Stewart, The Rod Stewart Sessions 1971-1998

Rod Stewart, Unplugged…and Seated (Collector’s Edition)

Bodeans, Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams (Collector’s Edition)

The Doors, Live In New York

Joe Jackson, Joe Jackson at the BBC

Elvis Costello, The Costello Show: Live at the El Mocambo

David Bowie, VH1 Storytellers

Kraftwerk, The Catalogue

Joe Cocker, Live At Woodstock

The Rolling Stones, Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! The Rolling Stones in Concert (40th Anniversary Edition)

Nirvana, Live at Reading

U2, The Unforgettable Fire (25th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition)

MUSIC ON DVD

Neil Young Archives: Vol.1 1963-1972

Leonard Cohen, Live in London

Leonard Cohen, Live at the Isle of Wight

Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood: Live at Madison Square Garden

Stevie Wonder, Live At Last

Diana Krall: Live in Rio

It Might Get Loud: Jimmy Page, The Edge, Jack White

Saw Doctors—Clare Island to Cape Cod

The Swell Season—Strict Joy (filmed at Milwaukee’s Riverside Theatre)

Christopher Guest, Michael McKean & Harry Shearer, Unwigged & Unplugged (also filmed at the Riverside)

Brian Wilson, That Lucky Old Sun

Genesis, The Movie Box 1981-2007

Jeff Beck: Performing This Week Only…Live at Ronnie Scott’s

The Who: Maximum R&B Live

Cheap Trick: Sgt. Pepper Live

Joe Bonamassa Live at the Royal Albert Hall

John Fogerty, Comin’ Down the Road: The Concert at Royal Albert Hall

Neil Diamond: Hot August Night/NYC: Live from Madison Square Garden

Paul Simon And Friends: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song

Kings of Leon’s, Live at the O2 London

Van Morrison, Astral Weeks Live At The Hollywood Bowl: The Concert Film

FAVORITE GIGS

Mahler’s 8th Symphony with Andreas Delfs and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Milwaukee Symphony Chorus, Milwaukee Children’s Chorus and soloists at the Marcus Center

Mucca Pazza at Global Union Festival at Humboldt Park

Carmina Burana with Andreas Delfs and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Milwaukee Symphony Chorus, Milwaukee Children’s Chorus and soloists at the Marcus Center

Brian Wilson at the Pabst Theater

Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra at the Marcus Center

Standing Strong Concert featuring Ball in the House at Manitowoc Roncalli HS Auditorium

Future Shock at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music

Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center

Doc Severinsen with El Ritmo de la Vida at the Pabst Theater

Mozart and Brahms with Andreas Delfs and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra at the Marcus Center

Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy at Irish Fest

Blue Note 7 at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center

Fire on the Bayou at the Stackner Cabaret

Cara at Irish Fest

Robin Pluer’s Festive Soiree at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music

Paul Cebar, Justin Townes Earle and Bill Kirchen at WMSE Summer Camp at Cathedral Park

Erich Kunzel’s Symphonic Pops with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra at the Marcus Center

Tribute to Richard Rodgers with Marvin Hamlisch and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, J. Mark McVey and Anne Runolfson at the Marcus Center

De La Buena at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music

Slide Hampton with the We Six Trio at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music

Brahms & Beethoven with Edo de Waart and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra featuring Frank Almond and Joseph Johnson at the Marcus Center

Music for The Screen with the We Six Jazz Sextet at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music

Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto with Edo de Waart and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and pianist Joyce Yang at the Marcus Center

Christmas music gift guide

Recession or not, there’s no shortage of musical goodies in Santa’s sleigh this year.

Bob Dylan, Christmas in the Heart

There will be other holiday titles that will be bigger sellers this year, but none will be talked about more than this one. Yes, we’re talking classics like “Do You Hear What I Hear?” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” Dylan’s voice won’t take any first prizes at a Christmas karaoke contest, but Bob is donating his artist royalties worldwide to charity, including Feeding America in the United States. A hilarious music video of Bob’s rendition of “Must Be Santa” is on YouTube.

Neil Diamond, A Cherry Cherry Christmas

Here’s the third holiday release from Neil Diamond, whose previous Christmas albums were huge hits. Most of the tracks are compiled from the previous releases, along with a handful of new songs. However, one of those new tracks is Diamond’s rendition of Adam Sandler’s “Chanukah Song”-that itself is worth the price of admission.

Sting, If on a Winter’s Night

Here’s one that’s already racking up big sales numbers. Sting is backed by folk musicians on a collection that includes rarely heard carols like “Gabriel’s Message,” “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” and the “Cherry Tree Carol.”

Andrea Bocelli, My Christmas

Italian tenor superstar Andrea Bocelli must have noticed that Josh Groban’s 2007 album Noel became that year’s biggest selling album. Joining him on his first are Mary J. Blige, Natalie Cole, Reba McEntire, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir-and the Muppets! This will duke it out with Sting for biggest-selling 2009 Christmas album, especially with the TV special airing on PBS this month featuring this album.

Wynton Marsalis, Christmas Jazz Jam

This is my favorite new Christmas release this year. He’s backed by the illustrious Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra featuring Milwaukee’s Dan Nimmer on piano. Jazz from swing to Dixieland is all represented here and members of the orchestra give their chops a workout. Vocalist Roberta Gumbel provides lovely contributions. Available exclusively at Target, but well worth seeking out.

Various Artists, The Ultimate Motown Christmas Collection

When Motown marketing mogul Berry Gordy saw artists like Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Mathis enjoying huge success with their holiday recordings, he made sure all of his artists followed suit. Every major star in Motown’s 50-year history recorded a Christmas album. Leading off with the Jackson 5’s unforgettable rendition of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” this collection is a true gem. The set includes The Temptations’ “Silent Night,” Stevie Wonder’s “Someday at Christmas,” Marvin Gaye’s “Purple Snowflakes,” Smokey Robinson & the Miracles’ “A Child Is Waiting,” and Diana Ross’ great take on Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas.” This is that rare collection that truly lives up to its title.

Mannheim Steamroller, Christmas: The 25th Anniversary Collection

When producer/arranger Chip Davis and his ensemble released Christmas, he, along with George Winston, almost single-handedly revived the Christmas album. Davis celebrates the occasion with this two-disc, 25-song collection of his favorite tracks from all the Steamroller holiday albums.

Various Artists, Making Merry

For years now, Starbucks has released superb holiday compilations featuring exclusive new tracks with vintage Christmas classics. This year’s Making Merry includes tracks like Willie Nelson and Norah Jones’ take on “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” nestled alongside choice cuts from Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Barbra Streisand, Nat King Cole, the Beach Boys, even Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass! Steven Stolder’s liner notes provide great backstories on featured recordings, and acclaimed British rocker Richard Hawley’s great take on “Silent Night” is a special treat.

Chris Squire, Chris Squire’s Swiss Choir

In 1975, ELP bassist Greg Lake released “I Believe in Father Christmas,” which topped UK charts. In 2007, Chris Squire recorded an album of seasonal music, just released in the States. The focus is decidedly on English carols. Some like “Adam Lay Ybounden” and “Gaudete” may be unfamiliar to American audiences, but they make this collection a real standout. Squire combines the wonderful English Baroque Choir with a rock rhythm section, and it works beautifully! This is the perfect Christmas album for prog fans.

NOW HEAR THESE

^{Here’s a selection of great CD’s for Christmas gift-giving, many of which you might not have heard about. I’ve tried to include items to fit every budget.}

^{Various Artists, Atlantic Records Time Capsule}

^{We’ve previously reported on labels celebrating golden anniversaries Motown, Warner Bros., for example). One of the truly greatest labels, Atlantic, has done them one better with this collection celebrating 60 years of great music. From Laverne Baker and Ray Charles to Kid Rock and the Zac Brown Band, this set, unlike the Warner collection, doesn’t miss any of the great stars that have recorded for Atlantic family labels, even those (Rolling Stones, ABBA, Bee Gees, Aretha Franklin) no longer affiliated with the label. Comprising nine CD’s (with over 100 tracks) plus a DVD of the acclaimed PBS documentary Atlantic Records-the House Ahmet Built, it is rather pricey, but well worth it.}

^{Various Artists, Deutsche Grammophon 111th Anniversary Collectors Edition}

^{For classical music fans and for those money where no object, I offer a real gem. Deutsche Grammophon, arguably the world’s greatest classical label, celebrates its 111th anniversary (it has something to do with Beethoven’s final opus) with this amazing box containing dozens of the label’s greatest albums on a whopping 55 CD collection, housed in replica LP sleeves in a functional flip box. Everything from Helmut Walcha’s recordings of Bach keyboard works to Karajan’s great Berlin Philharmonic recording of Beethoven’s 9th from 1962 to Chinese piano phenom Lang Lang’s Tchaikovsky First Piano Concerto with Barenboim and the Chicago Symphony recorded earlier this decade, it’s an instant classical collection of some of the greatest recordings ever. And considering what you’d pay to get these albums separately, the price of the set is actually one of the year’s best music bargains!}

^{Various Artists, Deutsche Grammophon: 111 Tracks From 111 Years}

^{For classical music fans and money is an object, here’s the “junior edition” of the above set: Excerpts from each of that set’s 55 albums, plus 60 more tracks from DG artists not featured in the mega-box. It’s all on six CD’s and it goes for around $25. If you’re really feeling generous, both sets complement each other quite nicely as less than half the tracks here are in the Big Box.}

^{Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers, The Live Anthology}

^{Next time Bruce Springsteen wants to put out a live compilation, he’d do well to study the blueprint on this remarkable collection. Compiled from 30 years of concert tapes, this great sounding set not only features incendiary versions of Petty classics, but plenty of great covers never before released on album (Goldfinger, anyone?). This set makes a convincing case that the Heartbreakers are one of the truly greatest rock bands ever. And the set comes in several configurations, ranging from a very reasonably priced four-CD edition to the Super Deluxe box with a bonus CD, two DVD’s and other goodies. The deluxe edition is available only at Best Buy.}

^{The Beatles, The Beatles in Stereo}

^{The Beatles, The Beatles in Mono}

^{I discussed these sets at length a few months back, but Capitol/EMI were caught totally unprepared for the public’s demand for these boxed sets, and none were to be had for months. The good news is that new shipments of both have now arrived and are readily available at all music outlets now, just in time for holiday gift-giving.}

^{Paul McCartney, Good Evening New York City}

^{Speaking of the Beatles, here’s a brand-new release for more budget-minded Santas. Since 1976’s Wings Over America, Paul McCartney has released scores of live albums and videos, but all of them had shortcomings of one kind or another. This set, recorded last summer at New York’s new Citi Field, may have finally gotten it right. Not only is the set list itself totally fab, including lots of Beatles tunes, but the mix engineer is one Geoff Emerick, who worked on Fab Four classics like Revolver, Sgt. Pepper and Abbey Road. In addition to two CD’s, you get a DVD of the entire concert minus Paul’s stage banter on the CD’s. However, you’ll have to go to Best Buy to get an additional bonus DVD that includes Macca’s full seven-song performance, while standing on top of the marquee of New York’s Ed Sullivan Theatre last summer, filmed for Late Night With David Letterman. Viewers at home only got to see 2 songs of this set.}

^{King Crimson, In The Court of the Crimson King (40th Anniversary Edition)}

^{One of the great prog masterpieces just got better. Disc One of this two-CD set includes a spectacular 2009 mix of the entire album, along with bonus tracks of session outtakes, including an acoustic version of “I Talk to the Wind.” Disc Two is a DVD-audio take of the entire album, both in stereo and in a 5.1 Surround Sound mix, along with the bonus tracks as well as a video of the band performing “21st Century Schizoid Man” at their legendary Hyde Park performance in July 1969, as opening act for the Rolling Stones. The sound on this reissue just blew me away.}

^{Dolly Parton, Dolly}

^{Everybody knows Dolly Parton, the iconic country music entertainer, but not as many realize Dolly is one of the great songwriters of country music. Both facets are on vivid display on this new four-CD box, the first to cover her entire career up through the 90’s. Unfortunately, the set does not feature her great recent bluegrass music albums. However, Sugar Hill has collected those albums on their own Dolly boxset, which also features a DVD of great Dolly video performances. Taken together, these sets provide a great overview of her Hall of Fame career.}

^{Frank Sinatra, Sinatra New York}

^{Continuing their series of box sets that began with Sinatra in Hollywood and Sinatra Vegas, Rhino now releases this four-CD/one-DVD set that features Ol’ Blue Eyes performing on his home turf from various stages of his legendary career. It’s Sinatra at his best, which in other words, is the best there is.}

^{Andy Williams, Moon River-The Very Best of Andy Williams}

^{To coincide with his just-published autobiography Moon River and Me, Andy Williams has compiled this compilation of his greatest tracks. And he’s customized the album for various markets. The U.S. version contains 18 tracks, including the first album appearance of his moving rendition of “Battle Hymn of the Republic” performed at Robert Kennedy’s funeral in 1968. The UK edition, on the other hand features a whopping 24 tracks. Though “Battle Hymn” is absent, this edition includes his holiday chestnut, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” as a bonus track. (That song is even more revered as a Christmastime standard in the UK than it is here.) Indeed, UK loyalty to the 82-year old crooner is justified by the fact that he’s been booked to appear at next summer’s edition of the legendary Glastonbury Festival, which is being headlined by U2.}

^{Merry Listening!}

Muscially celebrating the holidays in Milwaukee

The holiday season is fast approaching, and that means the return of many Milwaukee traditions, such as the Milwaukee Ballet’s Nutcracker, the Milwaukee Rep’s A Christmas Carol, and the annual visit by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the Bradley Center. And don’t forget the annual Sleighriders benefit show at Shank Hall, December 21, which benefits SafeZone Community Arts Center. But there are plenty more musical treats awaiting you around town during the holidays. Here are some personal recommendations.

A Nod To Bob, Linneman’s, November 25, 7pm
What better way to get your Thanksgiving weekend started than an evening filled with songs from the Bard of Hibbing, performed by some of the area’s best musicians? All proceeds will be donated to the Hunger Task Force. In fact, donations of non-perishable food items are strongly encouraged. Five cans of food gets you a $5 discount off the cover. Info: linnemans.com.

Festive Soiree with Robin Pluer & Friends, December 3-5, Wisconsin Conservatory of Music
Well, it might not be December on the Champs d’Elysées, but darned if Robin Pluer doesn’t have a way of making you feel like you’re there. Once again, Robin and friends, including Connie & Kim of Mrs. Fun, bayan master Stas Venglevski, and guitarist Peter Roller, will present an evening of French chansons along with select holiday favorites to make your spirits bright. So popular are Robin’s holiday shows that the WCM has three performances scheduled.  But hurry, all performances will sell out. Info: (414) 276-5760 or wcmusic.org.

Christmas Choral Concert, December 4-6, Schwan Concert Hall, 8815 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Perhaps not as publicized as other holiday musical events, this concert featuring the three choral groups of Wisconsin Lutheran College is always one of the highlights of the season. Traditional carols and classical selections are on the program, performed a cappella and with orchestra. And the cost is less than a ticket for a first-run movie! Come hear why these talented singers wowed audiences on their recent European tour. Info and tickets, (414) 443-8802.

Milwaukee Symphony Holiday Pops, December 4-6, Marcus Center for Performing Arts
For years former MSO Pops Director Doc Severinsen led holiday pops programs to sellout audiences. This year marks new Pops Director Marvin Hamlisch’s first turn at the helm for this traditional favorite, and he promises lots of seasonal favorites along with many surprises, including a special visit from a certain Mr. Claus. The great Milwaukee Symphony Chorus will also be on hand. Just try to resist singing along. There will also be a special family matinee performance on the 5^th (St. Nick’s Eve) at 2 pm. Info: (414) 291-7605 or mso.org.

Handel’s Messiah with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, December 17 & 20 at the Basilica of St. Josaphat, and December 18 & 19 at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
After an absence of several years, Handel’s great oratorio Messiah returns for the holidays in Milwaukee. Did you know that Christmastime performances of this work did not become a tradition until it came to this country? It’s hard to imagine an American Christmas without it, especially when performed in two of our city’s most beautiful buildings. Please note the performance on December 20 is a matinee. Info: (414) 291-7605 or mso.org.

Next month we’ll have a peek at the musical goodies in Santa’s sleigh.

NOW HEAR THESE!

Various Artists, Abbey Road Now!

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Beatles’ legendary Abbey Road album, many of the best current British artists have “come together” to re-record the album in its entirety. And what a pleasant treat it is. Among my favorite tracks are Robyn Hitchcock’s killer remake of “I Want You (She’s So Heavy),” Glenn (Squeeze) Tilbrook’s take on “You Never Give Me Your Money,” an interesting revision of “Sun King” from Gomez, Cornershop’s romp through “Mean Mr. Mustard/Polythene Pam” and Charlie Dore’s Hawaiian reggae treatment of “Here Comes the Sun.” The catch here is that the CD is only available with the October 2009 issue of Mojo magazine. If the bookstores are sold out, consult greatmagazines.co.uk/mojobackissue to order by mail.

Guitar Summit, Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, November 6th

Another great guitar showcase at a marvelous venue was just announced.  Three fine musicians:  Matt Schroeder (fingerstyle), Matt Warnock (jazz), and Brad deRoche (classical) will be featuring original compositions, as well as their takes on songs made famous by other guitar masters. And the cover is only $10!  Info: (414) 355-6442.

Paul Cebar/Robin Pluer, Shank Hall, November 21

The 20th anniversary celebration continues at the venerable Shank Hall on the east side. The festivities have included reunions of some great Milwaukee bands, including E*I*E*I*O and Blue In The Face. On November 21st, Milwaukee music icon Paul Cebar and his great band Tomorrow Sound will be headlining a smoke-free show that will also feature his longtime musical cohort Robin Pluer and her band as opening act. Rest assured they will join forces during the evening to reprise some of their great songs from R&B Cadets and Milwaukeeans days. Not to be missed…and don’t forget to bring your dancin’ shoes! Info: shankhall.com.

Pezzetino, Lion

Weird Al Yankovic, The Essential Weird Al Yankovic

Be wary of any rock band that sports members totin’ accordions! Submitted for your approval…

Margaret Stutt is one of the hardest-working musicians on the local scene, featuring pop songs with an edge that evokes memories of Pretenders and the Cranberries, but with her own unique stamp. Pezzettino’s latest CD Lion is one of my favorite releases of 2009. Info: pezzettino.net. The CD is available at Rush-Mor or CDbaby.com.

And then there’s Weird Al Yankovic. Yes, it’s been 30 years since his first parody hit “My Bologna” caused a sensation on Dr. Demento’s national radio show. Little could we have imagined then that Weird Al would go on to become arguably the greatest music parodist ever, alongside comedy icon Stan Freberg. To celebrate, here’s a great new 38 song, double CD set that covers his entire career with the inexplicable omission of “My Bologna!”. From “Another One Rides the Bus” to “Eat It” to “Amish Paradise” to “Smells Like Nirvana” to “Canadian Idiot” to “White & Nerdy,” they’re all here.

Recommended in small amounts; huge doses of this stuff could be lethal!

Drivin ‘n cryin’, The Great American Bubble Factory

Once upon a time, there was a guy named kevn kinney (yes, the lower case spelling is correct!), who was a mainstay of the Milwaukee music scene during the 70’s and early 80’s, especially with his band the Prosecutors. Taking note of the burgeoning music scene in Georgia during the 80’s, kevn left to seek his fame and fortune (and get away from those Milwaukee winters!) in Atlanta. He formed the band drivin ‘n cryin, and, thanks in large part to their memorable hit “Fly Me Courageous,” went on to become one of the best New Wave bands of the era. While kinney has since made a nice solo career for himself in New York (like former Violent Femme Gordon Gano), the exciting news is the band has reunited with an album of brand-new songs that is a great addition to the band’s legacy. Not bad for a kid from Milwaukee.

Original Soundtrack, The Boat That Rocked

Various Artists, 101 Original Pirate Radio Hits

Various Artists, Rockin’ With The Pirates

While American Top 40 radio brought the British Invasion to America’s teenagers in the 60’s, Brit kids had no such radio access, unless they listened to Radio Luxembourg, where the Beatles heard their music on the radio for the first time. The staunch BBC had no time for this drivel, limiting pop music airplay to only several hours a week. So the offshore pirate radio stations were born, becoming the legend recalled in the movie Pirate Radio, finally reaching U.S. theaters this month after being out in the U.K. since last spring. The movie’s release spawned a number of fine compilations in the U.K., including the double CD soundtrack under the movie’s U.K. title. All three collections boast a great selection of pop classics, both from the U.S.A and U.K. The three disc, 75 song Rockin’ With The Pirates is a special treat, since many of the set’s tracks are being released on CD for the first time ever. Info about these collections: Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk.

Various Artists, Theme Time Radio Hour Season 2, With Your Host Bob Dylan

From Ace Records in the U.K. comes this second collection of songs featured on Dylan’s satellite radio show, sans his intros and commentary. Like the collection for Season 1, this set compensates by featuring 50 songs from all genres on two discs, along with a great booklet featuring backstories on every single song. Please be aware there are many “Theme Time” comps floating around out there. The sets on Ace are the only ones authorized by Dylan’s manager Jeff Rosen and show producer Eddie Gorodetsky (alias show announcer Pierre Mancini). Both sets are superb collections, and I’m sure Ol’ Bob would certainly approve as well.

Various Artists, Later Live with Jools Holland, Volume 2

Squeeze founding member Holland is probably now better known in the U.K. for hosting the late night “chat show” Later with Jools Holland on BBC TV. His music cred has enabled him to lure many great music stars to appear on the show, and this is the second two-CD compilation totally comprised of performances from the show. It is sequenced so that one song goes directly to the next, giving the listener the impression he’s hearing one gigantic concert. Many current stars are on hand, but two of my personal favorites are from a couple of music veterans. Glen Campbell does a great version of his classic “Wichita Lineman” and Al Green offers a scorching take on “Let’s Stay Together.” Those tracks alone are worth the price of the set.

Various Artists, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Live DVD

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and until recently, the induction ceremonies were never televised. The best you could hope for was a photo spread and story in Rolling Stone magazine. Until now. To celebrate this milestone, the Hall has just released a three-DVD set of highlights from induction ceremonies, much of which has never before been seen by the general public. The speeches are here, of course, but more importantly, the once-in-a-lifetime jam sessions that are part of the annual ceremonies are also well represented here. Space doesn’t permit name-dropping here, but suffice it to say if you’re a rock music fan, this is a must-have.

Rod Stewart, Soulbook

About ten years ago, the rumblings began surfacing that it was over for Rod Stewart. He had been dropped by his label, and talk was he had become a parody of himself. Enter legendary music mogul Clive Davis, who persuaded Rod to record an album of pop standards, and the rest, as they say, is history. Three platinum albums of pop evergreens followed by another hit album of Stewart interpretations of classic rock staples, now followed by the album Rod the Mod was born to make. Soulbook features the classic R&B songs young Rod cut his teeth with, and he gets help from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Mary J Blige, and Jennifer Hudson. Great songs like “Rainy Night in Georgia,” “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted,” “You Make Me Feel Brand New,” “Just My Imagination” and many more get the best of care in Stewart’s hands. One of the best albums in a legendary career.

Rolling Stones, Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! 40th Anniversary Edition

Speaking of great albums, this album, recorded on the band’s legendary 1969 U.S. tour, ranks among the great live albums of all time. And it just got even better. For its 40th anniversary, the original album is now joined by a second CD with additional five Stones tracks, including great acoustic takes on “Prodigal Son” and “You Gotta Move,” featuring Mick & Keith. Plus, there’s another CD featuring sets from tour openers B.B. King and Ike & Tina Turner, a DVD featuring performance footage of selected tracks, and other goodies. A Thanksgiving feast for Stones fans.

Nellie McKay, Normal As Blueberry Pie: A Tribute to Doris Day

Now here’s a real head-scratcher. Is that really outspoken English singer/songwriter Nellie McKay performing songs associated with 50’s icon Doris Day? You bet, and McKay’s renditions gave proper due to the legend in a very enjoyable lounge jazz session. I’m particularly keen on “Sentimental Journey,” “Wonderful Guy”, “Do Do Do,” and a really fabulous reworking of “Black Hills of Dakota.” And the McKay connection to Doris Day becomes quite evident in the album liner notes. You didn’t think I’d give it away here, did you?

Various Artists, This Is Soul

Back in the 60’s Atlantic Records in the U.K. released This Is Soul, a budget-priced sampler featuring a dozen classic tracks by the label’s greats, including Aretha, Sam & Dave, Otis Redding, and Wilson Pickett. The album served to introduce scores of Brit kids to this great music, and it nestled comfortably alongside their Stones, Beatles and Kinks albums. Recently, Rhino U.K. reissued this classic sampler, now featuring a whopping 29 tracks! And the good news is that it’s still an incredible bargain, as copies can be found for around $10. It’s well worth seeking out this instant party starter.

Various Artists, The Sherman Brothers Songbook

The names Bob & Dick Sherman may not be household names. But if you’re a baby boomer, the songs they wrote are likely a big part of your life. You see, the Sherman Brothers were Walt Disney’s go-to guys for songs for many of his 60’s films. In fact, they are two-time Oscar winners for the songs “Chim Chim Cheree” and “The Bare Necessities.” They also wrote the songs for the Winnie-the-Pooh series, as well as the theme song for Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color. They even wrote the theme song for the comedy The Monkey’s Uncle, performed by Annette Funicello backed by the Beach Boys! And lest we forget, they also wrote the music for the classic Disney ride “It’s A Small World.” All these and many, many more Sherman songs are collected on this two-CD set. There’s also a nifty booklet that provides a colorful tour of the Shermans’ career. It’s a great album for Disney fans of all ages. By the way, if you listen closely, you’ll hear Uncle Walt himself crooning with the boys on one of the tracks.

Cool TV, digital channel 4.3 and Time Warner channel 994

Now if all these recommendations weren’t enough, perhaps you might be longing for the days when MTV and VH1 really meant music television. If so, check out Cool TV, a new local music channel presented in conjunction with Lake 94.5 FM. The station mostly features videos from the 80’s and 90’s, presented the way they were seen in the heyday of MTV. If you’re in the mood to step into a musical time machine, check out Cool TV.

New Halloween compilation makes it a happy Rocktober

Along with the annual visit of witches, ghosts, and goblins comes a musical treat courtesy of the Brits. 100 Hits: Halloween is the newest release in the successful 100 Hits series on the appropriately named Demon label.

This is arguably the coolest collection of seasonal music ever concocted. It’s a five-disc affair containing four CDs plus a karaoke DVD featuring a treat bag full of seasonal classics for your Halloween bash. But it’s the four CDs that are the real treat of this set. Sure, it’s got the warhorses like “Monster Mash,” “Purple People Eater,” “The Witch Doctor,” and “Haunted House” that are on every Halloween collection available at Target and Walmart, but there’s more, so much more.

First of all, one CD is totally dedicated to movie and TV themes ranging from Psycho to Twilight Zone to The Munsters. That leaves three more CDs of music, and I challenge anyone to find another Halloween collection that includes the likes of blues legend Robert Johnson (”Me and the Devil Blues”), rockabilly giant Gene Vincent (”Race with the Devil”), Frank Sinatra (”Witchcraft”), jazz legend Chet Baker (”Old Devil Moon”), Johnny Cash (”Ghost Riders in the Sky”), the Guess Who (”Clap for the Wolfman”-when was the last time you heard that one?), Bow Wow Wow (”I Want Candy”), jazz icon Thelonious Monk (”Mysterioso”), “The Divine” Sarah Vaughan (”Bewitched”), Edgar Winter (”Frankenstein”) and Big Band great Glenn Miller (”Ding! Dong! The Witch Is Dead”)!

And that’s just scratching the caramel apple surface! You don’t need a party to have a great time with this collection, which gets a five-pumpkin rating from me. If you’re unable to get it at your local record store, you can get it online from Amazon.

This month’s column is dedicated to the memory of Les Paul, the legendary “Wizard of Waukesha” who died on Aug. 13 at 94. Not only was he a fabulous musician but his inventions and innovations in guitars and recording techniques are also greatly responsible for the way we hear pop music today. And he never forgot his Wisconsin roots. I also want to thank the Paul family for the public memorial held at Discovery World (home of the wonderful Les Paul House of Sound) on Aug. 21. It was great for the Milwaukee fans and friends to have this opportunity to pay respects.

Pat MacDonald with melaniejane, Purgatory Hill

Wisconsin native Pat MacDonald, who gained eternal fame for his ’80s anthem “The Future’s So Bright (I Gotta Wear Shades)”, returns with his brand new album Purgatory Hill, recorded at Milwaukee’s Makin’ Sausage Music, on which he’s ably assisted by Bay View’s own melaniejane. Sprinkled among the originals on the disc are three cool covers: Iggy Pop’s “I Wanna Be Your Dog,” PJ Harvey’s “Meet Za Monster,” and the blues standard “Rollin’ and Tumblin’.” It all makes for a punk-folk feast. Pretty good for a guy who plays a guitar made from a cigar box. More info at purgatoryhill.com or melaniejane.com.

NOW HEAR THESE!

By Randy Otto

Guitar Faculty Recital, Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Oct. 25, 3pm

The conservatory presents a number of recitals annually that spotlight their illustrious faculty, but this one consistently draws sellout crowds. It’s understandable considering that it’s a showcase for every guitar style imaginable. Department chair Matt Schroeder (pride of the Twin Cities—Manitowoc and Two Rivers) always does a great job in rounding up a wide range of talented colleagues for this program, and this year promises to be no exception. For more info and tickets call (414) 276-5760 or go to wcmusic.org. But hurry, this event will be a sellout!

Various Artists, 101 Running Songs

Earlier this year I reviewed 101 Housework Songs, one of the most novel music compilations I’ve ever encountered. Now the Brits, courtesy of master compiler Ashley Abram and his team, strike again with 101 Running Songs. It’s a five-CD set featuring, you guessed it, songs to accompany you as you run, walk, or whatever you do to work those muscles. Like Housework Songs, the variety and sequencing of the songs are a large part of the fun. The songs are drawn from the ’50s (Fats Domino’s “I’m Walkin’”) to 2009 (Kelly Clarkson’s “My Life Would Suck Without You”), from golden oldies (Spencer Davis Group’s “Keep On Runnin’”) to recent classics (Reel 2 Real’s “I Like To Move It”). And you’ll find selections from the totally unexpected (Weather Report’s “Birdland”) to absolutely perfect (Bill Conti’s “Gonna Fly Now—Theme From Rocky”). Chalk up another one for Mr. Abram, the guy responsible for creating the legendary Now That’s What I Call Music series, which began in the UK way back in 1983 and has now reached an astounding 72 volumes. More info at nowmusic.com.

Original Soundtrack, Inglorious Basterds

Speaking of compilations, a friend and I had a recent conversation in which we were discussing film directors who made the most effective use of existing music in their movies. We came up with Woody Allen, Martin Scorsese, and the recently deceased John Hughes. You can now add Quentin Tarantino to that list as well, a film director who also has a phenomenal record collection. His use of their music in his movies jumpstarted the careers of Dick Dale (Pulp Fiction) and the 5.6.7.8’s (Kill Bill). With his latest movie, Inglorious Basterds, Tarantino draws upon the work of his favorite film composers, reasoning what’s the use of commissioning new music when the perfect music already exists! Tarantino selected themes from film music giants like Dimitri Tiomkin, Lalo Schifrin, and, especially, the legendary Ennio Morricone, plus French and German pop songs from the Nazi era (The song “Man with the Big Sombrero” is one catchy ditty!), the theme from Burt Reynolds’ 1973 White Lightning and a ’70s funk track from the late Billy Preston. Even David Bowie’s “Putting Out Fire” (the forgotten theme from the 1980 movie Cat People) made the cut…and it all works! Say what you want about his movies, Tarantino’s soundtrack albums always make for fascinating listening.

Cheap Trick, Sgt. Pepper Live

Upon the release of Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band in 1967, the Beatles announced there would be no live performances of this album, saying it would be impossible to reproduce the music onstage. Flash forward to 2007, when Cheap Trick, Rockford’s finest, were approached to perform the album live in its entirety for a benefit concert in New York. If ever there was a band qualified to accept the challenge, it would be the Tricksters, and they did so with relish. Recruiting members of the New York Philharmonic, an Indian music ensemble and guest vocalist Joan Osborne (she appears on “Lovely Rita Meter Maid”), the band played the entire album (with an encore of the “Abbey Road Medley” thrown in for good measure), and the event was filmed and recorded for posterity. Now with The Beatles: Rock Band game and the Fab Four’s remastered CDs selling like crazy, what better time to release the live album?

The album sounds great, thanks in no small part to engineer Geoff Emerick, who was the engineer on the original Pepper album, as well as Cheap Trick’s 1980 opus All Shook Up. And if nothing else, Sgt. Pepper Live offers conclusive proof that Robin Zander is truly one of the all-time great voices of Rock. Just listen and marvel to how he wraps his inner John, Paul, George, and Ringo around these songs, a daunting task for any singer (especially on “A Day in the Life”).

The Tricksters will be repeating this show again soon, this time at the Hollywood Bowl, but you can enjoy it anytime on the live album. In addition, all artist royalties from CD and DVD sales are being donated to the fight against prostate cancer. Fab!

Joshua Bell, At Home with Friends

So you’re violin superstar Joshua Bell, and you’ve performed to great acclaim around the world. So what do you time during your down time in your New York home? Why, invite some friends over for a little musical jammin’! And when your friends include Chris Botti, Sting, Josh Groban, newly minted Emmy-winner Kristin Chenoweth and MSO Pops conductor Marvin Hamlisch (just to mention a few), wouldn’t it be great to a the proverbial fly on the wall for those get-togethers? Not to worry, these sessions are now available on CD in your very own home (or wherever you listen to music). A standout highlight is his performance with Anoushka Shankar, playing a duet piece composed by her father, sitar master Ravi Shankar.

Los Lobos, Los Lobos Goes Disney

On Halloween, Los Lobos, one of the truly legendary American rock bands, returns for another Milwaukee visit, this time at the Northern Lights Theater. Now, you might think it a bit odd that the band would be out on tour without a new album to support. And you’d be wrong, because they’ve just released Los Lobos Goes Disney, arguably the most fun Disney collection to come along since the great Stay Awake in the ’80s (and Los Lobos appeared on that album, playing The Jungle Book’s “I Wanna Be Like You,” which is reprised on the new album). The catch is it’s only available at Amazon, but it’s certainly worth seeking out. Imagine hearing Los Lobos doing songs such as “Heigh-Ho,” “Cruella De Vil,” “The Tiki Tiki Room,” “Bella Notte,” “Bare Necessities,” and “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah”! Even their rendition of “It’s a Small World” will make you smile, not cringe! It’s a great Christmas gift idea for Disney fans of all ages (remember, it’s not too early!).

WMSE Fall Membership Drive, beginning Oct. 26

As a volunteer at Frontier Radio WMSE, I’d be remiss if I didn’t alert you to the station’s Fall membership drive. $125,000 needs to be raised by Dec. 31 to keep the station going and presenting the mix of music and volunteer DJs unlike any other station in town. And please note that WMSE receives no support from the government, so it relies 100-percent on support from listeners and area businesses to keep the music coming, making it a truly public radio station. Of course, the pledge drives are also great opportunities for the station to present amazing live-in-studio performances. In the recent past, there have been live sets from The Blasters, Robyn Hitchcock, and blues guitar wonder kid Tallan (T-Man) Latz during station pledge drives. So tune in for the fun at 91.7 FM or wmse.org, and don’t forget to pledge, either online by phone at (414) 799-1917. Now more than ever, every dollar counts!

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