Exploring the amazing land of Britcomps

March 1, 2010

By Randy Otto

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.

New Celtic Releases for St Patrick’s Day

Various Artists. 100 Hits: Irish Party

The Chieftains with Ry Cooder, San Patricio

Solas, Turning Tide

Altan, 25th Anniversary Celebration

Flogging Molly, Live at the Greek Theatre

Dropkick Murphys, Live on Lansdowne

Various Artists, Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Various Artists, Sweetheart 2010

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

Preservation Hall Jazz Band & Special Guests, Preservation

Various Artists, The TAMI Show Collector’s Edition DVD

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

January 31, 2010

By Randy Otto

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

January 3, 2010

By Randy Otto

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

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

November 24, 2009

By Randy Otto

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

October 30, 2009

By Randy Otto

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

October 1, 2009

By Randy Otto

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!

Back to school with the Beatles

August 27, 2009

By Randy Otto

On Sept. 9, millions of Beatles fans worldwide will enjoy a shared experience that scores of college students have annually. While the college kids are acquiring all those textbooks for the fall semester, the Beatlemaniacs will be snapping up the brand-new The Beatles: Rock Band video game along with the upgraded CDs of the Fab Four’s entire catalog. Both groups will be opening their wallets and forking over Big Bucks for the aforementioned items. Woe to those who are college students and Beatles fans!

Now I’m no expert on video games, but as for the CDs, let’s just say the Beatles music has been in need of a major overhaul since its initial appearance on CD back in the ’80s. Last year, the reporters at Britain’s Mojo music magazine, coinciding with their coverage of the 40th anniversary of The White Album, were invited to Abbey Road Studios for a private listening session of the “upgraded” edition of that 1968 release. To say they were impressed would be a major understatement. Of course, the rest of us less privileged fans were left drooling about what we thought was the imminent release of the upgraded CDs. Well, it took a video game, which features the upgraded masters on its soundtrack, to finally light the fire and get these upgraded discs to the public. »Read more

New downtown music festival Aug. 22

July 30, 2009

By Randy Otto

As the relentless parade of summer music festivals continues to roll through Milwaukee, one is conspicuously absent.

In its short history, the Third Ward Summer Sizzle had become a mainstay on the festival calendar, a great showcase for national jazz acts and local favorites in a fabulous setting, providing a welcome alternative to the music offerings at the Wisconsin State Fair.

Unfortunately, the Sizzle has become yet another victim of the current recession. The Historic Third Ward Association, which stages the festival, concluded several months ago that it just could not muster the necessary funds to stage this year’s festival, so the Sizzle has been suspended for 2009. Here’s hoping it makes a triumphant return in 2010. »Read more

Woodstock and beyond

June 29, 2009

By Randy Otto

The 40th anniversary celebration of the Woodstock Rock Festival continues with the centerpiece of the releases, the reissue of the Woodstock movie on DVD and Blu-Ray. The four-disc set comes housed in a slipcase that looks like a fringe jacket stolen from David Crosby’s closet. The discs contain Michael Wadleigh’s director’s cut of the film, with newly remastered sound and picture since its initial release in 2004. The film itself clocks in at a monstrous four hours, but that’s not all! The third disc features two additional hours of previously unreleased performances from the festival, including acts not seen in the original film (i.e., Creedence Clearwater Revival, Janis Joplin, Grateful Dead). And the fourth disc contains oodles of bonus features that provide behind-the-scenes documentaries about the festival as well as the production of the film and soundtrack (including interviews with director Wadleigh and film editor Martin Scorsese). They also explain how this film, which certainly made this festival a household word worldwide, came close to never being made at all! »Read more

A kneel to Neil

May 28, 2009

By Randy Otto

After years of speculation and yet another delay last February, the much-discussed first installment of Neil Young’s Archives project is finally here. And the reason for that latest delay can now be told.

As it turns out, PBS was set to feature Young in its acclaimed American Masters documentary series. When that film could not be scheduled for a February airdate, the Archives set went back to a “TBA” status. But June 2, all editions of Archives Volume 1: 1963-1972 will be available. And June 10, PBS will air Neil Young: Don’t Be Denied (8pm on MPTV Channel 10.1). »Read more

I’ll take a CD with that latte, please

April 28, 2009

By Randy Otto

Most people would think Starbucks an odd choice to find great music. But Starbucks fans will tell you that music is a big part of the Starbucks “experience.” Indeed, the music division of Starbucks, known as Hear Music, has been issuing CDs (and recently, iTunes cards) for years. In fact, music icons including Paul McCartney, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, John Mellencamp, Carly Simon, Elvis Costello, along with up-and-comers like James Hunter, are all signed to the Hear Music roster. Also, Ray Charles’ Grammy-winning Genius Loves Company was in no small way helped by being released through Hear Music. All these artists’ releases are available at traditional music outlets as well as Starbucks stores. But it’s the compilation CDs available exclusively at Starbucks that are well worth seeking out.

For me, music at Starbucks first came to my attention several years ago with the magnificent “Artist’s Choice” series. This series gave the artist the chance to assemble a personal playlist of songs of the “music that matters most to them.” Those who submitted lists of songs from their personal record collection included the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Yo-Yo Ma, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Sarah McLachlan, Elvis Costello, Joni Mitchell, Tony Bennett, and Sheryl Crow, just to name a few. »Read more

The granddaddy of all-star benefit concerts

March 31, 2009

By Randy Otto

Here’s a trivia question. When it comes to the “father” of all-star benefit shows like Live Aid, Farm Aid, Live 8, the Bridge concerts, etc., what name comes to mind? You’d be likely to answer Bob (Sir Bob) Geldof, right? Well, you’d be wrong.

Would you believe…John Cleese?

No, this is no April Fool’s joke. The Monty Python and Fawlty Towers star (and Milwaukee Public Television radio spokesman) was the catalyst for the shows that evolved into the events mentioned above. That’s one of the revelations found in the recent DVD box set The Secret Policeman’s Balls, which collects highlights of the legendary UK benefit shows held during the ’70s and ’80s.

As stated in the set’s accompanying booklet, back in 1974 a fledgling organization called Amnesty International was desperately looking for ways to keep from going under. One person who responded to the pleas for funds was one “J. Cleese.” An alert Amnesty worker surmised that this was none other than John Cleese, and based on his hunch, approached the comedian to ask for ideas as to how Amnesty could raise funds quickly. Not only did Cleese respond, but he also offered his services and connections to organizing a benefit show. The resulting 1975 event, known as Pleasure at Her Majesty’s, featured the cream of British comedy talent and was an enormous success. The show was made into a movie, shown in the United States as Monty Python Meets Beyond the Fringe, since the show featured most of the Pythons along with the legendary comedy troupe Beyond the Fringe. That show spawned additional events, which came to be known, in typically British fashion, as The Secret Policeman’s Ball. »Read more