Album Reviews

Charles Bradley

Charles Bradley’s life story – he’d endured homelessness and worked as a James Brown impersonator before being signed to Daptone Records – makes him one of music’s most inspiring figures. … Read more

Wilder Adkins

There’s something uncommonly illuminating about Wilder Adkins’ latest offering, the descriptively titled Hope & Sorrow. It comes across in his ambiance and imagery, his breathless delivery and a sound that … Read more

Santana

When it comes to Carlos Santana’s varied discography, most pounce on his landmark Abraxas and hail it as his undisputed masterpiece. I don’t. For me, that honor goes to its … Read more

Elvis Costello

His grandfather was an orphan who played jazz on cruise ships. His father was a showman, captivating early ‘60s England with super smooth ‘n groovy cover versions of the real … Read more

Daniel Hutchens

Daniel Hutchens’ The Beautiful Vicious Cycle Of Life plays out a little differently than the title suggests it might. This third solo album by the leader of the Georgia rockers … Read more

Bill Evans

We toss around the word historic with reckless, unbridled impunity. Kim Kardashian scoots across the carpet on her new butt and it’s historic. Someone in Brooklyn devours 1800 hot dogs … Read more

Nigel Hall

The growing old school R&B revival proves that traditional music is timeless. Nigel Hall takes his place in the movement with Ladies & Gentlemen… Nigel Hall, which was nominated for … Read more

The Everly Brothers

Sundazed Records attractively designed double LP, The Songs of The Everly Brothers, is a feast of recordings that show Don and Phil Everly as highly skilled songwriters and masterful singers. This … Read more

Fruition

Fruition is one of the many gems of the burgeoning Portland, OR music hotbed. This release represents the band’s evolution from mostly a string band into a multi-faceted unit capable … Read more

Mike Wheeler Band

This completes the Delmark trifecta, at least the first one for 2016 – a wonderful start with Guy King, Corey Dennison Band and now the Mike Wheeler Band! With contemporary … Read more