2024 was an amazing year for new music. What follows are my favorite 2 new studio albums of the year; the titles are not ranked but rather presented via each artist's name appearing in alphabetical order...Robert Kinsler
Title: Finally (Gloopy Records / MVD Audio)
You might like if you enjoy: The Cars, Devo, Reel Big Fish
Tell me more: Anyone who caught The Aquabats! at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April knows just how much fun the Huntington Beach-spawned musical troupe is in concert. Released on June 21, 2024, The Aquabats!'s seventh studio album Finally fully delivers on the band's freewheeling and fun live shows and brings that undeniable party to a 17-track LP that will please the band's generations-spanning fan base known as "Aquacadets." The expansive sonic extravaganza — the band's first new album since 2020's Kooky Spooky...In Stereo — kicks off with the driving alt rocker "Whatever Forever!," a cut bolstered by melody and virtuoso guitar work. Other standouts include the pop-styled "Unicorn Babies!," sci-fi themed foray "Dr. Space Mummy!" (the latter among the highlights of the band's Coachella appearance), post-punk rockers "Algebro!" and "Roofus The Doofus!," electronica "Let's Go Live In A Cave!," comedic "Spider Love!," ska sortie "Sun Blocker!" and enticing melodic cut "Don't Make Me Run!"
The Aquabats! features the collective talents of The MC Bat Commander (lead vocals), Crash McLarson (bass guitar), Jimmy the Robot (saxophone, keyboards), Ricky Fitness (drums, percussion), Eaglebones Falconhawk (guitar, bass), Chainsaw The Prince of Karate (guitar, vocals), Cat Boy (trumpet, vocals) and Gorney (piano, keys, vocals, bass, guitar). Information: theaquabats.com.
You might like if you enjoy: Matthew Sweet & Susanna Hoffs, Fleetwood Mac, The Sundays
Tell me more: Released on Oct. 11, the Armoires' fourth album Octoberland is an exhilarating listen sure to please fans of top-tier indie rock and power pop. Produced by Michael Simmons (of sparkle*jets u.k. fame), the Armoires — singer-keyboardist Christina Bulbenko, singer-guitarist Rex Broome, drummer John M. Borack and bassist Clifford Ulrich — showcase an inviting sound that blends great musicianship, sophisticated songcraft and effortless tunefulness that collectively elevate each of the 11 tracks on the disc. The tandem lead and harmony vocals of Bulbenko and Broome are a key element of the Armoires' signature sound. Broken into two parts, Octoberland's strength and momentum shines at every turn. Part One standouts include the psychedelic opener "We Absolutely Mean It," the shimmering new wave-mining "Ridley & Me After The Apocalypse," melodic "Ouroboros Blues (Crow Whisperer)" and Celtic-tinged "Green Hellfire At The 7-11." Part Two highlights include the sumptuous "You Oughta Be Cut In Half," sweeping "Snake Island Thirteen" (the latter "a windswept cry of solidarity with Christina Bulbenko's war-torn ancestral homeland of Ukraine"), and the winning ear candy-drenched closer "Music & Animals." Information: bigstirrecords.com.
Title: Ghost Stories (Frontiers Music s.r.l.)
You might like if you enjoy: Blue Öyster Cult, the Animals, Raspberries
Tell me more: Leave it to the technological magic of artificial intelligence and 21st century digital technology to assist one of rock's great enduring acts to complete a collection of choice cuts in 2024. Blue Öyster Cult's Ghost Stories is a full-length album of "reimagined and newly completed songs" that span from 1978-2016. The "lost gems" featured on the album were recorded mostly between 1978 and 1983 — the exception being 2016's heartfelt cover of the Beatles' beloved "If I Fell." Now the archival recordings originally tracked on reel-to-reel analog tape by audio engineer George Geranios have been completed. Produced by Steve Schenck and Richie Castellano, original band members Eric Bloom and Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser as well as Albert Bouchard, Rick Downey and Castellano worked to complete the tracks heard on Ghost Stories. Early highlights on this new disc include the blues-rock opener "Late Night Street Fight," haunting "So Supernatural," a winning cover of the Animals' "We Gotta Get Out Of This Place," Neo-psychedelic nugget "Soul Jive," and rousing rocker "Gun." The dreamy "The Only Thing," a freewheeling lead guitar-fueled version of MC5's "Kick Out the Jams," the classic rock flavored "Money Machine" and melodic prog rocker "Don't Come Running To Me" are among the standouts on the disc's last half. Information: http://www.blueoystercult.com/.
Title: Hideaway (Blackbird/Indie AM Gold)
You might like if you enjoy: Bright Eyes, Mazzy Star, M Ward, Beck's "Morning Phase" and "Sea Change"
Tell me more: Blending folk, Americana and Mazzy Star-tinged dreamscapes, Breezers — the moniker for Los Angeles singer-songwriter Evan apRoberts — has returned with the bewitching album Hideaway. This is an album that is as much about the luxurious moodscape as the individual songs and nuanced musicianship; the 12-track album is a truly sumptuous listen. According to the artist, the album's far-flung influences are pulled from his successful visual arts practice; apRoberts notes "I find much inspiration in the philosophies, writing and sensibilities of the Beats, The Dirty Realists, the Romantic poets from the early nineteenth century, and Ken Kesey." Highlights include the magical opener "The Last Rung," Baroque pop sortie "No Problem," Laurel Canyon-mining "Cemetery," the country-tinged "Caldera Nights," lovely "Dirt Road Dirtbag," and genre-blending foray "Mountain Lion." The album closes with "Caverns Reveal," a song apRoberts wrote back in 2007; the swirling original features apRoberts' talents on lead vocals, guitars, mandolin and banjitar. Co produced by apRoberts and Graeme Gibson, Hideaway is a sonic treasure worthy of discovery. Information: breezersmusic.com.
Title: Bobbo Byrnes (Highway Five Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Jayhawks, Rhett Miller, Toad the Wet Sprocket
Tell me more: Celebrated Americana singer-songwriter Bobbo Byrnes returned in 2024 with a new full-length album that reminds listeners about the importance of great song craft, a compelling artistic vision and the undeniable magic that happens when great players create magic in a recording studio. Bobbo Byrnes is an 11-track collection that showcases the power of Byrnes' best work with the Fallen Stars and conjures up memories of great songs from top-tier acts such as Toad the Wet Sprocket, the Jayhawks and Rhett Miller. Memorable cuts on this modern-day masterwork include the spirited opener "Around Here," resonant "Long Way Down," breezy "Plain Street," the shimmering rocker "Never Learned to Fly," alt country rocker "Some Salvation" and ambitious genre-defying "Not Lost"; I have been particularly smitten by "I Cannot Say," a bewitching rocker co-written by Ben Riddle that is as haunting as it is contagious. Information: BobboByrnes.com.
Title: Here To Eternity (Fuzze-Flex Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Collective Soul, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Live
Tell me more: One of the truly great American rock bands to emerge in the 1990s, Collective Soul has scored a slew of memorable hits including "Shine," "December," "Where The River Flows," "The World I Know" and "Run." Now the band fronted by brothers Ed Roland (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards) and Dean Roland (rhythm guitar) returned in 2024 with the outstanding 20-track Here To Eternity. The lead-off track "Mother's Love" is an infectious and melodic hard rocker showcasing Collective Soul's brilliant knack at crafting great verses and choruses that fit together perfectly. Other tracks capture that same undeniable approach, each showcasing the rock quintet's magic. The anthemic "Bluer Than So Blue" (enhanced by Jesse Triplett's amazing lead guitar work), power pop-tinged "Let It Flow," bewitching Americana romance-themed "Not the Same," rockabilly foray "Matter of Fact" and gorgeous piano-anchored "Be the One" are among the early gems on the disc. The introspective modern rocker "Keep It On Track," euphoric "Who Loves," sweeping Baroque rocker "Bring On The Day," dreamy "Words Away," enchanting "I Know You. You Know Me" and heart breaking closer "Over and Out" are just as impressive on the album's final run. A particularly profound original on the album is "Bob Dylan (Where Are You Today)," an acoustic track recorded live whose emotional pull is likely magnified by the strife stretching around the globe: "Bob Dylan, where are you today / They preach that war is all around / No strength in leaders can be found/ Well I can't say / I'm a man that just prays." Information: collectivesoul.com.
Artist: Crowded House
Title: Gravity Stairs (BMG)
You might like if you enjoy: Crowded House, Neil Finn, Del Amitri
Tell me more: Nearly 40 years after classic tracks like "Don't Dream It's Over" and "Something So Strong" introduced their elegant style of melodic rock to the masses, Australian troupe Crowded House returned in May 2024 with a genuinely brilliant masterwork titled Gravity Stairs. The 11-track disc is filled with original gems stretching from the shimmering opener "Magic Piano" and graceful single "Teenage Summer" (the latter showcasing Neil Finn's yearning vocals) to the exhilarating power pop foray "The Howl," sumptuous "Some Greater Plan (for Claire)," psychedelic-tinged "I Can't Keep Up With You" and poignant closer "Night Song." Other sonic nuggets include the Beatlesque "All That I Can Ever Own," buoyant "Oh Hi" and evocative "Thirsty." Information: crowdedhouse.com.
You might like if you enjoy: The Eagles, America, Dawes, Jackson Browne
Tell me more: Oh Brother is Dawes' ninth full length studio album but marks a decidedly new era for the beloved Southern California-based outfit. Indeed co-founding members/brothers Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith parted ways amicably with two bandmates last year following the release of 2022's wonderful Misadventures of Doomscroller; the newly-released nine-track Oh Brother provides a joyful listen as Dawes navigates a mix of folk rock, piano-centered ballads and Allman Brothers-worthy jams with elegance and passion. The recording of the album began with Taylor on guitar and vocals and Griffin on drums, later adding additional studio instrumentation courtesy of touring guitarist Trevor Menear. The lyrical depth, virtuoso chops and marvelous song craft shines across the disc; standouts include the literate opener "Mister Los Angeles," the introspective "Still Strangers Sometimes," playfully nostalgic "House Parties," and poetic closer "Hilarity Ensues." Oh Brother is available everywhere now on Dead Ringers via Secretly Canadian Distribution. The album is available on split color vinyl, as well as via an array of deluxe Oh Brother bundles via the band's official website. Information: dawestheband.com.
Artist: Deep Purple
Title: =1 (earMUSIC)
You might like if you enjoy: Deep Purple, Rainbow
Tell me more: Deep Purple's =1 is at once a celebration of the British hard rocker's groundbreaking career and a band focused on the future. Indeed, the current lineup of singer Ian Gillan, bassist Roger Glover, drummer Ian Paice, keyboardist Don Airey and new guitarist Simon McBride collectively deliver potent performances across the 13-track Bob Ezrin-produced masterwork. Early standouts on the album include the taunt opener "Show Me," fiery "A Bit On The Side" and driving "Portable Door" (the latter featuring some dazzling lead guitar and organ work courtesy of McBride and Airey respectively). The bluesy "If I Were You" (showcasing Giillan's signature vocals), bewitching "Pictures of You," the sweeping rocker "Lazy Sod," lovely "I'll Catch You" and prog rock closer "Bleeding Obvious" entice on the last part of the album. The bonus DVD features the documentary "Access All Areas" allowing viewers to catch the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers backstage on tour and providing an exclusive look behind the scenes of the band. =1 is available now in a number of formats including a CD+DVD digipak (the version reviewed in this column), several limited edition 2LP vinyl versions, and a limited edition box set that includes CD+DVD, digital, 2LP black Gatefold, a collector's T-shirt, guitar picks and more! Information: ear-music.net.
Title: Dr. Dog (We Buy Gold Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Ozomatli, Other Lives, Phosphorescent
Tell me more: Genre-defying collective Dr. Dog is back with their 11th studio album, the self-titled Dr. Dog. A true contemporary masterpiece, the album marks the Philadelphia-based band's first new album in six long years. The good news is the 11-track LP fully delivers on the acclaimed troupe's approach at blending any number of styles flawlessly in support of bewitching songs. The luxurious "Lost Ones," dance-minded and decidedly eclectic "Fat Dog," immersive "Talk is Cheap" and dreamy "What a Night'll Do" are early nuggets on the set, while the wistful "Still Can't Believe," jazzy "Fine White Lies," scintillating "White Dove" and alt Americana foray "Handyman" thrill on the album's last half. The quintet's bold five-part vocal harmonies and artful musicianship make this a must-hear for discerning listeners. Information: drdogmusic.com.
Title: Naked Truth (Alligator Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Robert Johnson, Leo Kottke, Keb' Mo'
Tell me more: Atlanta-based blues guitar great/singer-songwriter Tinsley Ellis is heard in a decidedly different light on his latest full-length album Naked Truth. Ellis' 21st album remarkably marks the celebrated bluesman's first-ever solo acoustic album; after hearing the marvelous dozen-track collection fans will be wondering what took so long. Armed with his top-tier talents as both singer and guitar player, Ellis' collection additionally benefits from a riveting authenticity that draws favorable comparisons with the classic recordings of beloved heroes including Robert Johnson, Son House, Muddy Waters and Leo Kottke. Indeed, the album was recorded live in the studio with Ellis playing his 1969 Martin D-35 and his 1937 National Steel O Series guitars. The disc opens with the fiery Delta track "Devil In The Room," an infectious and toe-tapping blues gem adorned with his artful slide work. A cover of Son House's "Death Letter Blues" genuinely taps into the spirit of the anguished original. Other standouts on Naked Truth include the rhythm-fueled instrumental Silver Mountain, playful take on Willie Dixon's "Don't Go No Further," luxurious take on Kottke's elegant "The Sailor's Grave On The Prairie," intense "Horseshoes and Hand Grenades" and sumptuous closer "Easter Song." This writer's favorite selection is the gentle Skip James-inspired original "Windowpane," which is bolstered by Ellis' falsetto vocals and nuanced fretwork. Information: alligator.com.
Title: Selling What You Want To Buy (Kool Kat Musik)
You might like if you enjoy: The Cars, Big Star, Teenage Fanclub, Blur
Tell me more: The Embryos returned in 2024 with Selling What You Want To Buy, an album that celebrates stellar song craft, musical diversity and the unbridled power of great rock and roll. The bewitching opener "The Embryos Live" is both sumptuous and rocking, and would have been right at home on The Cars' 1978 debut. The Embryos turn on a dime to perform the breezy Americana-tinged "Fortunes," before immersing the listener with shimmering power pop courtesy of the wonderful "Frozen City." Other standouts on the album include the Britpop-mining "Little Demon," shimmering alt country nugget "Desiree," Southern rock-styled "Sweater in the Heather," melodically rich "Somehow She Knew" and dreamy Neo-psychedelic "Onandonandon." The Chicago-based band spent two years working on the completion of Selling What You Want To Buy including songwriting, recording and mixing, and the work of the Embryos shines across the top-tier disc. Information:
Title: Don't Stop Playing Guitar (Kool Kat)
You might like if you enjoy: Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs
Tell me more: Spain's Colman Gota's aptly-titled fifth album Don't Stop Playing Guitar is a mostly rocking set of 17 tracks that find the talented singer-guitarist conjuring up classic rock stylings of greats ranging from Tom Petty and the Knack to Matthew Sweet and Weezer. The sizzling opener "Big In Taiwan," propulsive power pop gem "Always Late," introspective folk rocker "Glad That You Are Alive," fiery "Enemy" and the reflective "Check On Someone Else" explode with a single listen. A more nuanced listen awaits via the mid tempo "Crack The Code," shimmering title track, sumptuous "Higher Calling" and Americana sortie "If I Only Could." The disc closes with the otherworldly "Like You Always Have," a glistening track showcasing the artist's songwriting as well as his nuanced talents on guitar and wonderful lead vocals. Information: koolkatmusik.com.
Title: Floreada's Boy (Catfood Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Eric Clapton, Robert Cray
Tell me more: Acclaimed artist Zac Harmon returned in 2024 courtesy of his wonderful full-length disc Floreada's Boy, a 12-track set that showcases his talents as singer, songwriter and guitar master in spades. A native of Jackson, Mississippi, Harmon's album is truly a celebration of blues and American music — what's more he brings welcome modern elements into his songcraft. The wide range of top-notch material includes the blues-fueled mid tempo opener "Babe and Ricky's Inn" (bolstered by Harmon's spoken word delivery), the funk-styled "Glass Ceiling," '70-tinged R&B foray "Let It Slide," soulful "That's the Way I Feel About Cha," blues standout "Sugarman" (the latter featuring the Texas Horns) and jazzy blues sortie closer "Stop The Killing," the latter bolstered by the signature guitar work of Caleb Quaye. In addition to the contributions of his backing band The Drive, guest artists on the album include the aforementioned Quaye and Texas Horns, as well as acoustic guitarist Gregg Wright, multi-instrumentalist Christopher Troy and singer SueAnn Carwell. Information: catfoodrecords.com and zacharmon.com.
Title: Clocks Are Out Of Time (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The The, Nick Cave, Interpol, Blur
Tell me more: Reunited English quintet Jack Rubies returned in 2024 with Clocks Are Out Of Time, the band's first new album in more than 30 years. The band's original lineup of Ian Wright (lead vocals, guitar), SD Ineson (backing vocals, guitar), Steve Brockway (bass), Lawrence Giltnane (percussion) and Peter Maxted (drums, and the album's producer) have created a unique soundscape that fuses 1990s Britpop with contemporary indie rock into something that is their own. So many standouts propel the 12-track album across its full span, delighting the listener with undeniable hooks, a kaleidoscope of sonic moods and genuine surprises. The bewitching opener "Hark," driving hypnotic rocker "Heaven Shook Me," dreamy "Hidey Hole," tuneful "Chandelier," playful "Poltergeist," exhilarating "Read My Mind," edgy "Shark Attack" and dazzling closer "I'll Give You More" all cast their power with a single listen. And the album's sumptuous reach only deepens with each subsequent listen. Information: bigstirrecords.com.
Title: How To Make Friends By Telephone (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Matthew Sweet, Jason Falkner, Roger Joseph Manning Jr.
Tell me more: Librarians With Hickeys' third full length album How To Make Friends By Telephone marks a dramatic step forward for the rising Akron, Ohio-based outfit. The rock quartet's power pop instincts shine on the followup to their 2022 breakthrough Handclaps & Tambourines to be sure (read my review of Handclaps & Tambourines HERE), but there are additional stylings that add to the magic on the 12-track disc. Standouts include the intoxicating melodic opener "Hello Operator," dreamy indie rocker "Listening," jangly delight "Out Of Your Hair," nostalgic "What Happened To My Heart," Celtic-tinged "Ship To Shore" and wonderfully euphoric "Everything Will Be Alright." Information: bigstirrecords.com.
You might like if you enjoy: Matthew Sweet, Jason Falkner, Roger Joseph Manning Jr.
Tell me more: Librarians With Hickeys' third full length album How To Make Friends By Telephone marks a dramatic step forward for the rising Akron, Ohio-based outfit. The rock quartet's power pop instincts shine on the followup to their 2022 breakthrough Handclaps & Tambourines to be sure (read my review of Handclaps & Tambourines HERE), but there are additional stylings that add to the magic on the 12-track disc. Standouts include the intoxicating melodic opener "Hello Operator," dreamy indie rocker "Listening," jangly delight "Out Of Your Hair," nostalgic "What Happened To My Heart," Celtic-tinged "Ship To Shore" and wonderfully euphoric "Everything Will Be Alright." Information: bigstirrecords.com.
Title: Concrete Blues (Wilderness Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Matthew Sweet, Big Head Todd & The Monsters, Nils Lofgren, Neil Young
Tell me more: Concrete Blues is an album that finds Randy Lee Riviere fusing Southern, classic and alt rock with electric blues to create a compelling 12-track masterwork. The album opens with the arresting rocker "Mania," a track propelled with a driving rhythm and pulsating guitars. The Tom Hambridge-produced album's powerful and potent strengths never falter; the euphoric and immersive rock gem "Change Is Strange," hypnotic Southern blues sortie "Just Trying To Get Back Home," heavy "Magic Bullet," sparse countrified "Stranger In My Head" and dreamy "It'll Be Alright" are among the top-tier originals that thrill on Concrete Blues. Riviere (pronounced "Re-VEER") has a fascinating life story; in addition to his bona fide powers as a gifted recording artist he is a wildlife biologist who has been involved with large-scale efforts in the past working to protect and restore important elements of the Native American landscape. Additionally, he has a voice and emotive delivery ideally suited to his signature sonic approach. Information: randyleeriviere.com.
Title: Dream Job (Diesel Management Productions)
You might like if you enjoy: Bill Withers, Otis Redding, Jonny Lang
Tell me more: Canadian singer-songwriter Jeff Rogers brings a wealth of soul to his wonderful new album Dream Job. Recorded at Wishbone Studios in legendary Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Rogers is backed by guitarist Kelvin Holly (Little Richard, Bobby Bland), keyboardist Clayton Ivey (The Staple Sisters, Thelma Houston), drummer Justin Holder (Keb' Mo', Delbert McClinton) and bassist Shonna Tucker (Booker T. Jones, Drive-By Truckers) upping the musical proceedings across the nine-track album. First and foremost, Rogers' incredible lead vocals make a bold and memorable statement across Dream Job, notably on the soulful opener "Her Kind of Trouble," infectious R&B track "Lock & Key," deeply affecting title track and soul-drenched blues ballad "Wish You Wouldn't Go." Adding icing on the sonic cake are guests Colin Linden (whose slide guitar is heard on "Mind of Your Own") and Kellylee Evans (whose vocals shine on "So Worth the Wait"). Information: jeffrogers.ca.
Title: Buddy and Biscuit (Leopard Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Buddy Miles, Prince, Jimi Hendrix
Tell me more: The late George Allen "Buddy" Miles Jr. (Sept. 5, 1947 - Feb. 26, 2008) was a musical titan, earning accolades as a composer, drummer, guitarist, singer and producer. In addition to his stint as a member of Jimi Hendrix's Band of Gypsys, he was a founding member of the Electric Flag, leader of the Buddy Miles Express and other musical groups. Now, James "Biscuit" Rouse (Lauryn Hill, Vivian Green, Sylvan Johnson) has released the first ever tribute album dedicated to the late Buddy Miles, the wonderful Buddy and Biscuit. Early standouts on the album include the infectious dance-minded "Don't Mess With Cupid," shimmering R&B take on Neil Young's "Down By The River," grooving funk-fueled original "Gi-Gina," inspired dance rock version of Miles "Them Changes," horns-adorned rocker "Train" and funk-blues version of the Isaac Hayes-David Porter classic "Wrap It Up." Later highlights include the soulful "Life Is What You Make It" and the mesmerizing Rouse original "Shine." Information: jamesbiscuitrouse.com.
Title: Gardens Old, Flowers New (Appleseed Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Jimmy Buffett, Donovan
Tell me more: Legendary folk singer Tom Rush is set to return with his wonderful new album Gardens Old, Flowers New on March 1 (the Appleseed Records title marks his first new album since 2018's Voices). Among the earliest heroes of the singer-songwriter movement, Rush is joined on his highly-anticipated return by a group of great players who add keyboards, hurdy-gurdy, percussion, dobro, sax, penny whistle, harmonica and more to the disc's wonderful acoustic soundscape. The Matt Nakoa-produced Gardens Old, Flowers New finds Rush, 83, exploring the highs and lows of life, and frequently using humor to further propel the compelling originals. The range of material amazes at every turn, and Rush's strong vocals and acoustic guitar work perfectly enhance the tracks. Highlights include the Americana anthem "Glory Road," the nuanced instrumental "Lullaby in E," nostalgic "Toy Boat Song," mortality-minded "One More Time Around the Sun," bewitching "Siena's Song" and yearning "The Harbor." The Celtic-tinged "If You Will Love Me" explores the magic of romantic connection with poignancy and poetic grace. Information: TomRush.com and AppleseedMusic.com.
Title: Low Hanging Stars (Blackbird Record Label)
You might like if you enjoy: Chris Hillman, I See Hawks in L.A., Gram Parsons, Michael Ubaldini
Tell me more: Los Angeles-based alternative country hero David Serby returned in 2024 with Low Hanging Stars, which marked his first collection of new music in a decade; the good news is that not a moment is wasted on the terrific 10-track set. Serby's literate and observant tales of streets stretching from Hollywood east to the Salton Sea are matched by the rousing music making where the talented singer-songwriter-guitarist is joined by his longtime producer and lead guitarist Ed Tree, bassist Greg Boaz (currently a member of Mavis Staples' band), drummer Dale Daniel (formerly of the Hacienda Brothers), and keyboardist-vocalist Darice Bailey. Additionally, Carl Byron (of celebrated Hot Club of Los Angeles) contributes Hammond B3 organ, accordion and keyboards on select tracks. The high flying "Fishtail Cadillac," breezy country folk nugget "Lonely Motel Days," rollicking "Low Hanging Stars" and the beautiful ballad "Another Chance to Dream" are early highlights on the disc. Later, the dance-minded honky tonk cuts "The Jukebox is Broken" and "Why Leave Los Angeles," bittersweet country rocker "I Bought the Ring," and sublime accordion-adorned "Trying to Get to Encinitas" bewitch with a mix of melody, stellar song craft and stylish grace. The album closes with the driving "Is it Lonely in Here," a confessional romantic foray whose lyrical and propulsive musical sweep impresses more with every listen. Information: davidserby.com.
Title: Where Will The Animals Sleep — Songs for Kids and Other Living Things (Cleopatra Records)
You might like if you enjoy: William Shatner, They Might Be Giants
Tell me more: Even at 93, William Shatner continues to surprise. Seven decades into his extraordinary and singularly remarkable career, the acclaimed actor, director, writer and recording artist released his first ever children's album Where Will The Animals Sleep — Songs for Kids and Other Living Things. Working with Dan Miller (guitarist of They Might Be Giants) and novelist Rob Sharenow, Shatner's 2024 return brings the world alive via a collection of colorful and whimsical songs where he uses his signature baritone spoken word style to educate and entertain youngsters about some unique corners of the animal kingdom. The first track, "Elephants and Termites," is delivered against a Eastern European musical soundscape where children learn about the critical role that termites play in the lives of elephants. The rockabilly romp "Oh My Honeyguide" is a fascinating tale of how select species of birds guide people in areas of Africa and Asia to honey. Other songs take a comedic and smart look at the relationship between "Aphids and Ants," rhinos and oxpeckers ("The Rhino's Guard"), people and insects ("Why Do We Bug You") and other corners of the natural world. My favorite selection is the title track ("Where Would The Animals Sleep"), a luxurious Americana-wrapped song that is simultaneously a poignant plea for children to understand that all animals need a home in the world. Across the album Miller's expert touch as a multi-instrumentalist and backing singer provides the perfect soundscape to enhance Shatner's strong voice as storyteller and advocate for the creatures celebrated on the disc. The colorful physical packaging is perfect for listeners of all ages, and includes a fully illustrated 28-page booklet complete with all the lyrics for the 13 selections. Information: cleorecs.com.
Title: Box of Letters (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Brian Wilson, The Zombies, Pugwash, Fountains of Wayne
Tell me more: Sparkle*Jets U.K.'s Box of Letters is a euphoric listen, a disc that features Susan West (vocals, guitar), Michael Simmons (vocals, guitar, percussion) and Jamie Knight (bass) making a triumphant return on their first album of mostly original material in more than 20 years. After opening with an inspired cover of the Zombies' "This Will Be Our Year," Sparkle*Jets U.K. proceed to explore the far-flung corners of their sonic universe with a diverse mix of infectious songs ranging from the melodic rocker "Good Bye X 3" and aptly-titled Beach Boys-minded "I Can't Wait for Summer" to the harmonious alt rocker "Love Burn," dreamy "Little Circles," rollicking "Box of Letters" and jaunty closer "Hey Grandma." And just listen to the genre mash-up "Princess Needy," with its magical mix of chamber pop and disco stylings. The fact that West's punchy song craft and vocal approach works so well with Simmons' melodic and artful approach as as singer-songwriter brings an added dimension across Box of Letters. Simmons' rich and detailed production is the other key part of the bona fide success of the outstanding Box of Letters. Information: BigStirRecords.com.
Title: Broken (Provogue Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Joe Bonamassa, Paul Rodgers, Beth Hart
Tell me more: Over the past few years a myriad of domestic and international challenges ranging from inflation, economic uncertainty and increasing violent crime at home to raging wars in Europe and the Middle East as well as rising tension between the U.S. and China brought a sobering reality to life in 2024. In Walter Trout's poignant liner notes on his latest album Broken the blues great notes despite the darkness of modern life there is still hope. "These days it seems easy to get discouraged. It's easy to feel powerless. It's easy to feel broken," Trout writes, in part. "I still believe that music is a powerful force that can bring people together." Indeed, there is a life-affirming power across Broken that celebrates the power of the human spirit delivered via dynamic blues rock from one of the genre's greatest-ever proponents. The 12 songs on the Eric Corne-produced album resonate with an energy and urgency that taps into blues and classic rock with an authenticity sure to thrill discerning music lovers. From the heartfelt opener "Broken" featuring guest vocals from Beth Hart and the rootsy "Turn and Walk Away" (the latter featuring Trout's great harmonica work), to the nostalgia-filled "No Magic (On The Street), nuanced instrumental "Love Of My Life" and riveting closer "Falls Apart," the album is rife with highlights. This writer's favorite track is the bewitching "Talkin' To Myself," the song's mesmerizing grace enhanced by Trout's reflective lyrics and strengths as singer, guitarist and electric sitar player. Information: Waltertrout.com.
Title: Life Is Hard (Gulf Coast Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Gary Moore, Walter Trout, Joe Bonamassa
Tell me more: Blues great Mike Zito's aptly-titled Life Is Hard is an outstanding album, bolstered by uniformly incredible musicianship, the impressive production talents of Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, a truly stellar track listing and an emotional backdrop where Zito's wife Laura passed away from cancer prior to the recording of the 12-track project. The uptempo take on Little Milton's "Lonely Man," searing Fred James-penned Chicago blues title track (the latter really showcasing Zito's strong vocals), gospel-meets-blue take on Stevie Wonder's "Have a Talk with God" and his own soulful "Forever My Love" are among the early terrific cuts on the album. A gritty Southern fried take on Tinsley Ellis' "Dying to do Wrong," sumptuous cover of the Guess Who classic "These Eyes," yearning reading of Tab Benoit's "Darkness" bolstered by fiery lead guitar work, Zito's own romance-themed "Without Loving You" and chilling "Death Don't Have No Mercy" (written by Gary Davis) extend the album's palpable magic on its last half. Information: mikezito.com.
Robert Kinsler
