Live CDs Did A Lot To Help Audiences Get Their Concert Fixes In 2021

Courtesy: KScope Records

As December (and the year) continues to wind down, Phil’s Picks is far from winding down.  There is still much more to share from Phil’s Picks in the final weeks of this year, including today’s year-ender list, that of the year’s top new live CDs.  In years past, Phil’s Picks has had an abundance of live material, including live DVDs and BDs, but this year, offerings from that field were far slimmer, likely due to the ongoing pandemic.  On the opposite side though, there were plenty of live CDs released this year.  Audiences across the spectrum got live material to enjoy this year.  The metal masses got new live material from the likes of Destruction, Motorhead, and TesseracT.  Jazz fans got new live content from the likes of Doug MacDonald, The Philadelphia Orchestra, and Jazz at Lincoln Center Sextet.  Rock audiences got new content from the likes of The Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Foghat.  Even reggae fans got a little something new from a “live” recording from Bob Marley.  Simply put, 2021 was still a good year for new live music releases, if only on CD.  To that end, Phil’s Picks is offering once again this year, the Top 10 New Live CDs.

As with each and every list presented by Phil’s Picks, the list also features five additional honorable mention titles, bringing the total to 15.  Every single act and title listed here is deserving of its own applause, being that enjoyable.  There is no bad release.  Without any further ado, here for your consideration is Phil’s Picks’ 2021 Top 10 New Live CDs list.

PHIL’S PICKS’ 2021 TOP 10 NEW LIVE RECORDINGS

1. TesseracT – P O R T A L S

2. Lynyrd Skynyrd – Live at Knebworth

3. Harold Mabern – Mabern Plays Coltrane

4. Destruction – Live Attack

5. Motorhead – Louder Than Noise…Live in Berlin

6. The Allman Brothers Band – Down in Texas ‘71

7. Bob Marley – The Capitol Session ‘73

8. The Jazz at Lincoln Center Sextet – The Democracy Suite

9. Doug MacDonald – Live in Hawaii

10. Foghat – 8 Days on the Road

11. Eric Clapton – The Lady in the Balcony

12. The Hawkins – Live in the Woods

13. The Philadelphia Orchestra – Blue Symphony No. 2

14. Harold Land – Westward Bound

15. Enrico Rava – Edizione Speciale

That’s it for this list.  Again, there is no bad recording here.  Each act and title deserves its own share of praise and applause.  With this list done, this year’s music year-ender lists drops now to only three – the year’s top new rock, hard rock/metal, and overall albums.  From there, the attention will turn from music to TV and movies.  Stay tuned!

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.  

Eric Clapton’s Most Devoted Audiences Will Enjoy His Latest Live Recording

Courtesy: Mercury Studios

Famed bluesman/rocker Eric Clapton has made quite the stir last year and this year with his outspoken comments on the about COVID-19 pandemic, even going so far as to work with fellow singer-songwriter Van Morrison to write a protest song about the matter in the form of ‘Stand and Deliver.’  He followed up that song this year with another song centered on the pandemic in the form of ‘This Has Gotta Stop.’  The song is a reference to the lockdown actions taken by governments the world over in what they have said were efforts to slow the virus’ spread.  The pandemic also caused the cancellation of a series of live dates that he had scheduled to perform at the Royal Albert Hall in London this past May.  In lieu of those cancellations, Clapton instead retreated to the Cowdray House in West Sussex, England with friends and fellow musicians Steve Gadd (drums), Nathan East (bass) and Chris Stainton (keyboards) to record an intimate performance for audiences.  The recording, dubbed The Lady in the Balcony, is scheduled for release Friday through Mercury Studios (formerly Eagle Rock Entertainment).  It is a presentation that will appeal to the most devoted Clapton fans.  That is due in part to its general presentation, which will be discussed shortly.  The recording’s set list makes for its own interest and will be examined a little later.  Considering the setting, the performance’s production is also important to examine, and will be later, too.  Each item noted is important in its own way to the whole of the recording.  All things considered, they make The Lady in the Balcony a work that, again, Clapton’s most devoted audiences will find a great way to make up for the lack of live shows from the famed performer.

Eric Clapton’s forthcoming live recording, The Lady in the Balcony is a work that will appeal to plenty of fans of the famed veteran bluesman.  Recorded lieu of his planned performances at the Royal Albert Hall early this year, the intimate performance is a nice change of pace from all of the livestream events that so many acts opted to host in place of their live shows.  That is not to say that livestreams were not/are not a good option, just that it is nice to have something a little bit different.  That very presentation sits at the base of the recording’s success.  Instead of the band being in a studio made to look like a stage, Clapton and company instead sit in the comfort of a room at the Cowdray House in West Sussex, England to capture the performance.  It is along the lines of the performance that Between The Buried and Me did in studio some years ago for one of its live recordings.  It is just more intimate.  What’s more, instead of trying to spice up the concert with any interviews, etc. between songs, those behind the recording instead opt for a more “natural” approach, showing footage of the countryside around the facility that looks like a castle.  Audiences see the sun setting across the peaceful countryside, as well as the countryside itself.  There is even a unique shot from outside the room where the recording was captured that looks into a window on the building.  At some points throughout all of that, the group’s performance even plays over those calm visuals.  As much as one might like to see and hear audiences in live recordings, there is something that is just as enjoyable here because it allows the group and the music to take center stage (no pun intended).  On a related note, that increased focus on the group’s songs and performance allows for more appreciation for the talents of all involved.  To that end, the general presentation here forms a strong foundation for The Lady in the Balcony and gives the noted audiences reason enough in itself to watch this recording.  It is just a part of what makes the recording noteworthy, too.  The songs featured in the performance are of their own interest.

The set list featured in The Lady in the Balcony is of interest because of its makeup.  For the most part, the set list is composed of covers that Clapton has recorded and performed over the years.  The covers in question have also played a key role in his fame.  Among the covers featured in the set list are those of artists and composers, such as Jimmie Cox (‘Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out’), Muddy Waters (‘Bad Boy’) and Derek and the Dominos (‘Layla’ and ‘Bell Bottom Blues’).  The originals are kept to an extreme minimum here with intimate acoustic performances of ‘Believe in Life’ and ‘Going Down Slow.’  Between the songs noted here and the others featured in the set, the whole of the 17-song collection makes for its own interest.  When this is considered along with the concert’s general presentation, the two items show even more why the recording in whole will appeal to the noted audiences.  Even with that in mind, there is still one more item to examine in the recording.  It comes in the form of the performance’s production.

Going back to the intimate setting for The Lady in the Balcony, the setting raises reason for audiences to note the recording’s production.  The quartet gathers in one room to record each song together.  Seeing the size of the room, one can argue that it is about the size of a typical rehearsing space away from a studio.  That means that extra emphasis had to be paid to the room’s acoustics so as to keep the ground from drowning itself out.  Thankfully, Clapton’s longtime Grammy®-winning producer and friend Russ Titelman’s attention to that detail throughout paid off.  Even in simple moments in which just one of the musicians is performing, the size of the room does not allow for the sound to echo and wash itself out.  Everything is expertly balanced throughout each song.  The result is that the performance’s sound is just as laudable as its general presentation and set list.  All things considered, the recording proves itself an enjoyable concert experience for the majority of Eric Clapton’s fans.

Eric Clapton’s forthcoming “live” recording, The Lady in the Balcony, is a unique presentation from the veteran singer-songwriter.  That is proven from start to end of the recording.  The general presentation is partly to credit for its appeal.  That is because instead of trying to get all artsy (which easily could have happened) those behind the presentation instead opted for a more appealing, literally natural approach throughout.  It makes the general presentation engaging and entertaining in its own right.  The set list is interesting in its own right because of its focus more on covers than on Clapton’s own originals.  The recording’s production rounds out its most important elements.  It ensures that the sound is expertly balanced along with the various shots throughout the performance.  Each item noted is important in its own right to the whole of the recording.  All things considered, they make the recording a pleasing presentation for Eric Clapton’s most devoted audiences. 

The Woman in the Balcony is scheduled for release Friday through Mercury Studios.  More information on the recording is available along with all of Eric Clapton’s latest news at:

Website: https://ericclapton.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericclapton

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ericclapton

More information on this and other titles from Mercury Studios is available at:

Website: https://mercurystudios.co

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MercuryStudiosCo

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mercurystudios

To keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.  

Mercury Studios Announces Details For New “Live” Lockdown Performance From Eric Clapton

Courtesy: Mercury Studios

Mercury Studios will release a new “live” lockdown recording from Eric Clapton this fall.

The company is scheduled to release The Lady in the Balcony: Lockdown Sessions Nov. 12. The recording will feature 17 songs performed by Clapton with friends Steve Gadd (drums), Nathan East (bass and vocals), and Chris Stainton (keyboards). The recording came about as an alternative to the May 2021 concerts that Clapton had planned to take place at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

Among the songs featured in the presentation are updated takes on Clapton originals and new takes on classic standards. Those songs include and are not limited to: ‘Tears in Heaven,’ ‘Layla,’ Bell Bottom Blues,’ and ‘Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out.’ The group even takes on songs from Fleetwood Mac, such as ‘Man of the World’ and ‘Black Magic Woman.’

The recording’s track listing is noted below:

TRACK LISTING

Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out

Golden Ring

Black Magic Woman

Man of the World

Kerry

After Midnight

Bell Bottom Blues

Key to the Highway

River of Tears

Rock Me Baby

Believe in Life

Going Down Slow

Layla

Tears in Heaven

Long Distance Call

Bad Boy

Got My Mojo Working

Pre-orders are open now. A trailer for the recording is streaming here.

More information on The Lady in the Balcony: Lockdown Sessions is available along with all of Eric Clapton’s latest news at:

Website: https://ericclapton.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericclapton

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ericclapton

More information on this and other titles from Mercury Studios is available at:

Website: https://mercurystudios.co

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MercuryStudiosCo

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mercurystudios

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

The Rolling Stones’ Latest Live Recording Is As Solid As Steel

Courtesy: Eagle Rock Entertainment

The true greatest rock band in the world returned this week with another new archived live recording.  The band in question is The Rolling Stones and the recording in question is one of its three December 1989 concerts in Atlantic City, NJ in support of its then new album Steel Wheels.  The performance was part of the band’s “Steel Wheels/Urban Jungle” tour, which was the band’s first American tour since 1981.  The recording is another presentation that will appeal to The Rolling Stones’ fans just as much as rock fans in general just as much as the multitude of previous live recordings.  That count is almost at 20 counting (not counting this recording) if not right at said figure.  The main reason that audiences will appreciate the recording so much is its extensive set list. The list, which runs approximately two-and-a-half hours in length, will be discussed shortly.  The band’s performance thereof adds to the enjoyment in its own way.  This will be addressed a little later.  The recording’s production values round put the finishing touch to its presentation.  When it is considered along with the set list and the band’s performance, the elements collectively make the recording another welcome way to beat the live music blues this and any year.

The Rolling Stones’ latest live recording is another fully immersive, enjoyable presentation for the band’s most devoted fans and rock fans in general.  In an age when live music has been relegated to watching concerts online, this offering from the greatest rock band in the world is its own welcome offering and alternative to being glued to a computer or phone screen.  That is proven in part through the recording’s extensive set list.  The 28-song set list spans a run time of approximately two-and-a-half hours.  It takes audiences all the way back to 1965 and the band’s fourth album Out Of Our Heads and all the way up to its then most recent album, 1989’s Steel Wheels.  Given, not every album in-between is represented in the set list, but in comparison to the set lists featured in the band’s past live recordings, audiences do get some songs not featured in those presentations.  The band’s five nods to Steel Wheels are themselves works that have rarely if ever been featured in the noted previous live presentations.  The band’s cover of Bob & Earl’s ‘Harlem Shuffle’ and its performance of its own single ‘Undercover of the Night’ (from 1983) are in themselves live rarities.  So audiences have all of that to enjoy.  Along with the noted songs, audiences also get more familiar songs, such as ‘Honky Tonk Women,’ ‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash,’ and ‘Tumblin’ Dice’ among others.  As if all of that is not enough, the band also pulls ‘2,000 Light Years From Home,’ ‘Happy,’ and ‘Salt of the Earth’ as some semi-rare works from its catalog.  Also making this set list so enjoyable are guest appearances from blues legend John Lee Hooker, who joins the band for a performance of his own hit song ‘Boogie Chillen’ and a guest appearance by fellow blues legend Eric Clapton on that song and ‘Little Red Rooster.’

The set list in itself does a lot to make Steel Wheels Live appealing to audiences.  The set list proves itself even more critical to the recording’s presentation in that it is the exact same in the recording’s DVD, CD, digital and vinyl platforms.  In other words, audiences get the same presentation from one platform to the next.  This is important to note because even today, there are some acts out there whose live recordings vary across platforms.  So to have the same thing from one platform to the next makes the set list that much more important to the recording.

Additionally, the set list’s sequencing plays its own part to the recording’s presentation.  From the show’s opening up until the band takes on ‘Terrifying,’ the show’s energy remains relatively high.  It is not until the noted point that the band pulls things back.  The noted relaxation lasts only momentarily.  After that song and ‘Salt of the Earth,’ which features a guest appearance by Guns N’ Roses members Axl Rose and Izzy Stradlin, the show’s energy picks back up.  Their performance alongside Mick Jagger and company will be addressed a little later.  ‘Honky Tonk Women’ slows things down again, but still manages to keep the concert’s energy flowing solidly thanks to its swagger.  The same can be said of ‘Midnight Rambler,’ too.  That song comes immediately after ‘Honky Tonk Women.’  From that point on, the show’s energy rises and falls in all of the right points and ways, showing without question the amount of time and thought that went into assembling the set list.  That effort paid off, too.  When this aspect is considered along with the set list’s presentation across the recording’s platforms and its breadth and depth, those elements collectively make the set list the most important aspect of this recording.  It builds a solid foundation for the recording’s presentation on which the band’s performance rests easily.

The Rolling Stones’ performance of Steel Wheels Live’s set list is important to note because it does its own part to keep audiences engaged and entertained.  Those audiences who are familiar with the band’s live show style already has an expected standard from the band.  Those audiences will be glad to know that the band lives up to that expectation here just as much as in the band’s past performances.  Front man Mick Jagger is just as confident as ever as he struts his way across the stage and sings.  That swagger is on full display just as much.  Guitarists Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood keep the energy moving along with drummer Charlie Watts, the trio’s work just as engaging as ever in its own right.  Wood and Richards’ prowess on their instruments makes one forget the woes of the world, especially as they make their way through the blues classic ‘Little Red Rooster’ alongside Eric Clapton.  The group’s performance is just as solid as it supports Rose and Stradlin in the collective’s performance of ‘Salt of the Earth.’  On a similar note, viewers will be pleased to see that Rose shares the stage with Jagger and company in that performance rather than trying to steal the spotlight.  It shows that he knows he and Stradlin are the guests here, not the stars.  Even when he gets the spotlight in ‘Cant’ Be Seen,’ Richards shows once again, his talent as a performer and not just a guitarist.  He and the band’s longtime backing vocalists make for so much enjoyment and engagement in their own way.  Between that aspect and the rest of the presentation in the concert, the band’s performance in whole makes for a wonderful experience.  It builds on the foundation formed by the show’s set list to make the recording even more enjoyable.  When the two elements are considered together, they give audiences even more reason to take in this concert.  They are still only a portion of what makes the recording so impressive.  Its production puts the finishing touch to its presentation.

Just as with all of The Rolling Stones’ past live recordings released through Eagle Rock Entertainment, the production here gives home viewers the best seat in the house.  When the cameras go out beyond the sea of people, audiences get a full picture of just how many people attended the concert, and the sheer immensity of the band’s stage setup.  The on-stage footage immerses audiences into the performance even more as it takes viewers along for the ride up close with the band.  The transitions from shot to shot throughout and the sound enrich the experience even more.  From a more relaxed moment, such as in ‘Sympathy for the Devil to the more fiery cover of ‘Harlem Shuffle’ and everywhere else, the guitars and vocals are so well-balanced with Watts’ time keeping and the work of the band’s fellow musicians.  Each performer gets an equal share of time in the limelight.  Considering that and the smooth camera transitions, no doubt is left about the impact of the concert’s production.  When this is considered along with the band’s performance and the concert’s set list, the whole of these elements makes Steel Wheels Live a presentation that is another welcome addition to The Rolling Stones and Eagle Rock Entertainment’s ongoing series of live recordings from the band.

Eagle Rock Entertainment and The Rolling Stones’ latest live recording Steel Wheels Live is yet another welcome addition to the two sides’ ongoing series of live recordings.  That is proven in part through the recording’s expansive set list.  The set list runs 26 songs deep and spans a run time of two-and-a-half hours.  Given, it is not a career-spanning set even for its time, but does still present a relatively clear cross section of the band’s catalog up to that point.  The band’s performance of the featured set list is everything that audiences have come to expect from The Rolling Stones.  The swagger and the energy is there from beginning to end.  The concert’s production values play their own part to the recording’s presentation.  Each noted item is important in its own way to the whole of this presentation.  All things considered, they make the recording as solid as steel.  Steel Wheels Live is available now.

More information on Steel Wheels Live is available along with all of its latest news at:

 

Website: http://www.rollingstones.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/therollingstones

Twitter: http://twitter.com/RollingStones

 

Eagle Rock Entertainment’s latest news is available online at:

 

Website: http://www.eagle-rock.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EagleRockEnt

Twitter: http://twitter.com/EagleRockNews

 

To keep up with the latest news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Eagle Rock To Release New Clapton Retrospective This Summer

Courtesy: Eagle Rock Entertainment/Eagle Vision/Universal Music Group

Universal Music Group and Eagle Vision, the video branch of Eagle Rock Entertainment, have partnered to release a new retrospective on the career of legendary guitarist Eric Clapton.

Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars is scheduled to be released June 8, 2018.  The documentary tells the story of Clapton’s hugely successful career through the use of archived footage and interviews.  Clapton is brutally honest as he talks about the highs and lows of his career and personal life throughout.

The profile will come with a complimentary soundtrack on 2-CD, 4-LP and digital platform.  The 4-LP soundtrack is scheduled for release on July 20.  The 32-track compilation will feature recordings by The Yardbirds, Derek and the Dominos, John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, George Harrison, The Beatles, Aretha Franklin, Muddy Waters and Clapton himself.  Five of those 32 tracks are previously unreleased, including a full-length recording of ‘I Shot The Sheriff’, which was recorded during the 461 Ocean Boulevard sessions.

More information on Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars and other titles from Eagle Rock Entertainment is available online now at:

 

Website: http://www.eagle-rock.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EagleRockEnt

Twitter: http://twitter.com/EagleRockNews

 

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Hazmat Modine’s New LP Is One Of 2016’s Top New Blues Albums

Courtesy: Barbes Records

Ten years ago Hazmat Modine fist introduced itself to the world.  That introduction came in the form of the band’s 2006 debut record Bahamut.  Almost as much time passed between that record and the release of the band’s second album 2011’s Cicada.  Now five years after its release and lots of frequent flyer miles later—the band did quite a bit of touring over the course of its first decade—the wait has finally ended for the release of the group’s third album Extra-Deluxe-Supreme.  The ten-song record is a solid new record from the New York-based collective and an equally solid introduction for those that might be less familiar with the band’s body of work.  It is a record that mixes elements of blues and jazz for a nearly hour-long musical experience (51 minutes to be exact) that fans of both genres will enjoy.  This applies to audiences both familiar and not so familiar with the band’s body of work.

Hazmat Modine’s new album Extra-Deluxe-Supreme has been a long time coming.  That goes without saying.  It was released early this past June roughly five years after the release of the bands sophomore studio offering Cicada.  Five years is a very long time between albums in the music industry.  So to finally have the album released had to have been a load off of the band and its fans alike.  Listening through the record’s ten total songs, it can be said that the work and the wait were both well worth it.  One of the songs that supports that statement comes late in the album’s run in the form of ‘All of My Days.’  That is due both to the song’s musical arrangement and its lyrical content.  In regards to its musical content, the song boasts a sound that can most easily be compared to that of blues legend B.B. King.  Speaking even more specifically, it sounds like something that he would have composed alongside fellow blues great Eric Clapton for the duo’s 2000 record Riding With The King.  Interestingly enough the musical component sounds like King’s work while vocalist Wade Schuman sounds more like Clapton than King.  It makes for an interesting musical arrangement to say the very least.  That is meant in a positive manner, too.  Its musical arrangement is just part of what makes this song stand out among its counterparts.  Its lyrical content is just as important to note.  Schuman sings in this song about life in general.  He notes about doing one’s best even throughout life and being the best that one can be.  It would explain the upbeat, celebratory nature of the song’s musical arrangement.  Taking that into consideration the combination of both elements makes the song al the more enjoyable.  It serves just as much to point out what makes Hazmat Modine’s new record a standout offering from the band.  It is not the record’s only standout song, though.  ‘Arcadia (Coffee, Salt and Laces)’ is another song exhibiting what makes Extra-Deluxe-Supreme stand out.

‘All of My Days’ is by itself a clear example of what makes Hazmat Modine’s new album a standout recording.  The songs musical arrangement conjures thoughts of songs composed by Eric Clapton and B.B. King for the pair’s 2000 record ‘Riding With The King.’  The song’s positive lyrical content strengthens the song even more.  The two halves come together to make the song one whole that stands out clearly from its counterparts.  It is not the only song included in this record that stands out. ‘Arcadia (Coffee, Salt and Laces)’ is another of the record’s most standout songs.  This song was recorded in studio.  But there is a certain element about it that conjures thoughts of the dimly lit blues clubs and juke joints of the genre’s early days; those little joints that were so populous along the so-called “Chitlin Circuit.”  That is evident throughout the song’s musical arrangement and production.  Schuman’s gravelly vocal delivery adds even more to that image.  Listening through the song’s lyrical content, that slow, pure 12-bar blues style arrangement becomes even more understandable.  That is because Schuman comes across here a man singing about just wanting to be back home.  As he sings in the song’s chorus, “Well I got my ticket/Ready to go/Well I got my passport out/When this storm is over/When this time is out/I’ll see my sweet Arcadia/I’ll be back home with you.”  Through each verse, Schuman’s subject keeps singing about being back home.  So there’s no room for doubt about the song’s lyrical topic.  It works expertly with the song’s musical arrangement and vice versa.  The two elements together make ‘All of My Days’ stand out even more and show why this the album in whole stands out.  It is not the last of the songs featured in this record that serves to exemplify the record’s positives.  ‘Plans’ serves to make this record stand out just as much as ‘All of My Days’ and ‘Arcadia (Coffee, Salt and Laces).’

‘All of My Days’ an ‘Arcadia (Coffee, Salt and Laces)’ are both key examples of what makes Hazmat Modine’s new record a collection of songs that was well worth the wait.  That is due to the combination of their musical arrangements and their companion lyrical content.  The two elements compliment each other expertly in each song resulting in two songs that make this record stand on its own merits and stand out among other blues records released so far this year.  As important as they are in exhibiting this they are not the album’s only key compositions.  ‘Plans’ is one more composition showing just what makes this record so well worth the wait.  In regards to its musical arrangement, it stands out because of the comparison that can be made to songs composed by the likes of Doctor John.  That is clear especially in the use of the song’s brass elements.  What is really interesting is that Schuman somehow managed to even deliver a vocal performance very much in the vein of Doctor John.  The sound of his delivery is clearly differentiated from that of Doctor John.  By the stylistic approach is so similar that it is uncanny.  That coupled with the song’s instrumental arrangement makes the song’s overall musical arrangement a solid foundation for the song.  It is not the only important aspect to the song.  The song’s lyrical content is just as important to its presentation as its musical arrangement.  It sounds kind of funny, but the song’s lyrical content is actually rather bland yet somehow so catchy.  Schuman sings here about a man who…well…has plans.  He has certain things on his “to-do” list.  And it is not a shot list either.  He wants to organize his drawers at home, paint his mom’s house, settle some scores downtown, and lots more.  In other words, this is a busy man.  That urgent list of items matches up relatively well with the song’s equally upbeat tempo.  There is no sense of being overly urgent or busy.  But the music helps to illustrate just how much there is to do and the feeling of energy that the song’s subject has in examining his list of plans.  It’s just a fun, lighthearted song that will put a smile on any listener’s face and leave listeners tapping their feet in time.  It is a direct contrast to the likes of the previously noted compositions, too.  That makes it stand out even more.  In turn, it makes the record stand out even more against its counterparts in the blues counterparts.  That is even truer when it is set against the other, previously noted songs and the rest of the songs not noted here.  All things considered, Extra-Deluxe-Supreme proves in the end to be, in this critic’s view, one of 2016’s top new jazz and blues records.

Hazmat Modinee’s new album Extra-Deluxe-Supreme is one of 2016’s top new jazz and blues records.  The ten-song, fifty-one minute record shows from beginning to end that it deserves its spot on that list, too both through its musical arrangements and its lyrical content.  The musical arrangements are largely original but still show influences of the group’s more well-known counterparts at points through its counterparts.  The end result is a musical experience that any blues aficionado will enjoy.  The songs’ lyrical themes add even more to that enjoyment.  From the mundane (‘Plans’) to the more thoughtful ‘Arcadia (Coffee, Salt and Lace)’ to the truly deep (‘All of My Days’) and all points in between, this record offers just as much entertainment and insight in its lyrical content as it does in its musical arrangements.  All things considered, the album proves in the end to be a joy for any lover of the blues.  It is, again, one of 2016’s top new blues offerings.  And it is available now and can be ordered direct online via the band’s website at http://hazmatmodine.com/sound.  More information on Extra-Deluxe-Supreme is available online now along with all of the band’s latest news, tour updates and more at http://hazmatmodine.com.

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Veteran Acts Dominate 2015’s Top New Live DVD/BD Recordings List

This week marks the last full week of 2015. It’s a little tough to grasp that there are only eleven days left in the year. But it’s almost time to bid a fond farewell to this year. And even as the year’s final days tick away, there is still plenty of work left to do in turns of examining the top titles from the entertainment world. Phil’s Picks has already done quite a bit of that, delving into the top titles of the music world’s top titles. There’s still some ground to cover in that realm while beginning to transfer over into the year’s top new DVDs and Blu-rays in each of their different own areas. Keeping that in mind, what better way to start making that transfer than to look today at the year’s best new live DVDs and Blu-rays. The year’s best new live CDs have already been tackled. And as previously explained, in many cases, some DVDs and Blu-rays are actually released separate from their audio-only counterparts even today, and vice versa. That justifies a separate category for the year’s top new live DVDs and Blu-rays. That being the case, here, for your reading pleasure dear readers, is the Phil’s Picks 2015 Top 10 New Live DVDs and Blu-rays. As always, the Top 10 titles make up the main body of the list while the bottom five are no less important. They each receive honorable mention for a total of fifteen titles. Enough rambling. Here, again, is the Phil’s Picks 2015 Top 10 New Live DVDs and Blu-rays.

 

PHIL’S PICKS 2015 TOP 10 NEW LIVE DVDS AND BLU-RAYS

1. SLASH FT. MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS – LIVE AT THE ROXY 09.25.14

 

2. TESSERACT – SCALA

 

3. AEROSMITH – AEROSMITH ROCKS DONINGTON

 

4. GEORGE STRAIT – THE COWBOY RIDES AWAY

 

5. THE WHO – LIVE AT HYDE PARK

 

6. SHANIA TWAIN – STILL THE ONE: LIVE IN VEGAS

 

7. ERIC CLAPTON – SLOWHAND AT 70: LIVE AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

 

8. THE ROLLING STONES – LIVE IN LEEDS 1982

 

9. THE ROLLING STONES – LIVE AT THE TOKYO DOME 1990

 

10. LYNYRD SKYNYRD – PRONOUNCED L LEH-NERD SKIN-NERD & SECOND HELPING

 

11. PAT METHENY – UNITY SESSIONS

 

12. WHITECHAPEL – BROTHERHOOD OF THE BLADE

 

13. TASTE – WHAT’S GOING ON: LIVE AT THE ISLE OF WIGHT

 

14. RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE – LIVE AT FINSBURY PARK

 

15. DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES – LIVE IN DUBLIN

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Clapton’s Musical Birthday Bash Is A Great Gift For Every One Of His Fans

Courtesy: Eagle Rock Entertainment

Eric Clapton celebrated a big milestone earlier this year. The legendary guitarist celebrated his 70th birthday. And he didn’t just celebrate it with a quiet night at home. Instead he celebrated it in front of hundreds of fans at the famed Royal Albert Hall. Now fans around the world will get to take in that celebration in the comfort of their own homes this fall courtesy of the people at Eagle Rock Entertainment in the form of the new recording Slow Hand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall. Slow Hand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall was released earlier this month in a variety of platforms including DVD + 2CD, Blu-ray + 2CD, and an exclusive Deluxe DVD + 2CD edition. For the sake of this review, the attention will rest on the recording’s DVD + 2CD platform. There is plenty to like about this recording beginning with the show’s set list. While not necessarily a career-spanning show or even a career-defining set list it still touches on some of Clapton’s biggest hits. It is just one part of what makes this presentation another impressive addition to Eagle Rock Entertainment’s expansive catalogue and to any Clapton fan’s music library. Clapton’s stage presence and that of his fellow performers is just as important to the whole of this recording as the show’s set list. The concert’s production values round out its presentation. Between the work of the concert’s audio engineers, those behind the cameras, and those that handled the concert’s post-production the production values stand out here just as much as any of the other live recordings in Eagle Rock Entertainment’s vast library of archived concerts. Of course the package’s double gate-fold packaging can’t be ignored either. Together with all of the previously noted elements the DVD + 2CD presentation of Eric Clapton’s Slow Hand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall proves to be yet more proof of why Eagle Rock Entertainment remains today the leading name in live recordings and why this recording in itself is one more of the best of this year’s new live recordings.

Eric Clapton’s new live recording Slow Hand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall is one more of the best of this year’s new live recordings. Being such an impressive recording it is also more proof (as if the company needed it) as to why Eagle Rock Entertainment remains today the leading name in live recordings. The main way in which it shows itself to be such an impressive recording is its set list. The seventeen-song set list comes in at just under two hours. Specifically it comes in at an hour and forty-five minutes. Though the bonus performance of ‘Little Queen of Spades’ pushes that time to just over two hours. While not necessarily a career-spanning or even career-defining set list it is still a set that every fan will enjoy. It includes some of Clapton’s biggest hits of all time including: ‘Key to the Highway,’ ‘Wonderful Tonight,’ ‘Cocaine,’ and ‘I Shot The Sheriff’ among others. There is also a great performance of Willie Dixon’s blues classic ‘Hocchie Coochie Man’ and ‘You Are So Beautiful,’ which was co-written by Billy Preston, Bruce Fisher, and Beach Boys legend Dennis Wilson. As if all of that is not enough, the classic ‘Tears in Heaven’ is here, too as are ‘Layla,’ ‘Somebody’s Knockin’ On My Door’ and ‘Driftin’ Blues,’ which was originally composed by Johnny Moore’s Three Blazers in 1945. Between these songs and those not noted here, it can be said that the set in whole plays its own important role in the whole of this concert recording’s overall presentation. It is not the only part of the presentation’s whole that makes it enjoyable. Clapton’s stage presence and that of his fellow performers is just as important to the recording’s presentation as the show’s set list.

The set list that is featured in Eric Clapton’s new live recording is an important part of the recording’s whole in its own right. That is because it presents just a handful of the veteran musician’s songs from his extensive catalogue of songs. It might not necessarily be a career-defining set list or even career-spanning in the traditional sense of the terms. But it is still an impressive collection of songs nonetheless. As impressive as the show’s set list proves to be it is just one part of the presentation that makes it such an enjoyable program. Clapton’s stage presence and that of his fellow performers is just as important to note as the concert’s set list. There are no fireworks or big, bombastic guitar solos here. It is just a straight forward performance in which Clapton and company really let the music do the talking for them. One of the most notable moments to note in regards to the group’s stage presence is Clapton’s performance of ‘Tears in Heaven.’ Typically a slow, emotional piece Clapton opts for a different take in his performance here. He actually speeds up the song here. And while that might not seem like much on the surface, it is quite important to note. That is because it gives the song a wholly different identity from its original recording. ‘I Shot The Sheriff’ gets the audience just as into the show thanks to the group’s grooving energy as it performs the song. And the group’s take on ‘Hoochie Coochie Man’ conjures thoughts of a smoky old jazz club even with it being performed in what is one of the biggest and most respected concert halls in England if not the UK. The energy exuded through this performance and that of each of the concert’s other songs shows in whole just why Clapton’s stage presence and that of his fellow performers is so important to the whole of the performance. All involved handle each song with such expertise that it makes the music just as much the star of the show as its performers; So much so that there is really no need for interaction between Clapton and the audience in attendance. All things considered here Clapton’s stage presence and that of his fellow performers throughout each of the show’s songs shows just why it is just as important to the whole of the recording as the show’s set list.

The set list featured in Slow Hand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall and the band’s stage presence throughout the featured songs are both key ways in which the recording shows itself to be yet another solid release from Eagle Rock Entertainment and a recording that any of the legendary guitarist’s fans should have in their own music libraries. While both elements are of equal importance to the concert’s overall presentation they are not the only elements that should be considered. The concert’s production values are just as important to the concert as its set list and the performers’ stage presence. The Royal Albert Hall is a massive venue to say the very least. For those that might not be familiar with the hall’s makeup it is a very large, open structure. That means that the sound absolutely envelopes the hall. It also means plenty of options for camera shots. And the camera crew utilizes every option, too. There are multiple angles captured on-stage as well as from the audience. The on-stage angles include head-on shots of Clapton working his way through each song, his backup singers, Michelle John and Sharon White, singing like two wonderful angels, and even bassist Nathan East when he gets his time in the spotlight. There is also a number of equally wonderful other angles from every possible post on stage that heighten the viewing experience even more for audiences at home. The audience shots are just as incredible. There are incredible shots from atop the hall in its highest balconies and other trucking shots from the hall floor. Both shots capture in their own way the very immensity of the hall’s structure. Together they not only capture its incredible size but also the equally immense size of the audience in attendance. It shows Clapton’s continued popularity and relevance among audiences even decades after his debut. Considering the hall’s size, the audio is just as impressive. Audiences get to hear just how full the sound is as it rings through the hall. Yet thanks to those behind the audio boards (and those that handled the audio in post production) it never feels overpowering either to audiences or itself at any point. One can only imagine how it must have sounded in person. And even considering that it sounded just as incredible in this recording if not better. Coupled with the equally standout work of the show’s camera crew (and those that edited the concert in post) the concert’s production values show in the end exactly why they are just as important to this recording as the show’s set list and the performers’ stage presence. The combination of all three elements in the concert’s DVD + 2CD combo pack makes it just as enjoyable as it is in any of its other presentations. Given there is quite a bit more in the extended deluxe edition for true fans of Eric Clapton. But it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment offered by this presentation one bit. It is just as enjoyable in its own right. The double gate-fold packaging can even be cited in the package’s presentation. It may be more bulky than packages that use those plastic inserts in order to save space. But it also ensures the safety of the package’s discs. Set against the other noted elements, they collectively show exactly why Slowhand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall is one more of this year’s best new live recordings and why Eagle Rock Entertainment remains today the leading name in live recordings.

Eric Clapton’s new live recording Slowhand at 70: LIve at the Royal Albert Hall is one more of this year’s best new live recordings. It also shows yet again why Eagle Rock Entertainment remains today the leading name in live recordings. It proves both of these arguments mainly through the show’s set list. While not necessarily career-spanning or defining, it is still a set list that Clapton fans of all ages will enjoy. His stage presence (and that of his fellow performers) adds even more enjoyment to the concert. The production values presented throughout the concert and the packaging of the triple-disc set together round out the package. Each element plays its own important part in the whole of this concert. Collectively, they make it a concert recording that every Eric Clapton fan will enjoy and one that is one of this year’s best new live recordings. It is yet more proof of why Eagle Rock Entertainment remains today the leading name in live recordings. It is available now in stores and online. More information on this and other titles from Eagle Rock Entertainment is available online now at:

Website: http://www.eagle-rock.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EagleRockEnt

Twitter: http://twitter.com/EagleRockNews

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Chad Smith Lends His Talents To SAD’s Upcoming Debut LP

Photo Credit: Thierry Brouard

Independent rock band Screaming at Demons recently introduced itself to the world in a big way when it partnered with the nationally known charity group Homeless Rock Stars. The band combined the video for its new song ‘Rock Star’ with footage from a Homeless Rock Stars event to make an emotionally moving and powerful to help raise money for the organization and introduce itself to the music community at large at the same time. Now the band has taken another huge step in getting its name out there. The band has enlisted the help of one of the most talented and respected drummers in the music community today to help record a pair of songs for its upcoming debut record.

Screaming at Demons announced this week that it has enlisted famed drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chickenfoot) to record the drums for two of the songs to be included in the band’s upcoming album. Those songs are ‘Our Time’ and ‘All Of Me.’ Smith’s inclusion on the album, which currently has no set release date, is rooted in his friendship with AD bassist Chris Clemmence. Having previously performed live with Smith, Clemmence had a first hand understanding of and appreciation for Smith’s work behind the kit, leading to Clemmence asking Smith to lend his talents to the band’s new record. When asked about those talents, Clemmence responded telling reporters, “Chad is a legend and phenomenal powerhouse of a drummer. We are beyond honored to have him play on our two new upcoming singles. His feel and groove have brought our songs to a new level. We are so lucky to have him as well as an all-star team working on our music.”

Photo Credit: Thierry Brouard

Currently, Screaming at Demons is hard at work on its upcoming album. The album is being mixed by five-time Grammy Award-winning producer Chris Lord-Alge. Alge is no stranger to the music community and obviously to success within that community having those awards to his name. The roster of bands with which he has worked over the course of his career says plenty of his expertise behind the boards. That list includes the likes of: Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, Cher, Bon Jovi, Seal, Meatloaf, Three Days Grace, Aerosmith, Shinedown, Deftones, and countless others.  Alge was asked by reporters his thoughts on working with SAD.  his response showed just how excited he is to work with front man Shimon Moore and fellow SAD band mates Russell Ali and Chris Clemmence.  He had only positive things to say of working with the band, noting of the group, “A new level of excitement is coming from these boys and they are giving back to people in need and making music that instantly makes you wanna be a part of it!”  While fans wait for Alge, and the members of SAD to finish the band’s new album, they can check out the band’s video for its inspirational and infectious song ‘Rock Star.’ It can be viewed online now via YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0g7QiwkAe4&feature=youtu.be. Audiences can also keep up with all of the latest updates from the studio and all of the band’s latest news online at:

Website: http://screamingatdemons.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/screamingatdemons

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Eagle Rock Bringing Clapton’s Birthday Bash Home This Fall

Courtesy: Eagle Rock Entertainment

Eric Clapton celebrated a big milestone earlier this year. The legendary guitarist celebrated his 70^th birthday. And he didn’t just celebrate it with a quiet night at home. Instead he celebrated it in front of hundreds of fans at the famed Royal Albert Hall. Now fans around the world will get to take in that celebration in the comfort of their own homes this fall courtesy of the people at Eagle Rock Entertainment.

Eagle Rock Entertainment announced today that it will release Eric Clapton’s new live recording Slow Hand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday, November 13^th. The concert will be released on a variety of platforms including: DVD + 2CD, Blu-ray + 2CD, and an exclusive Deluxe DVD + 2CD edition. The Deluxe DVD + 2CD edition will feature Clapton’s performance from the Royal Albert Hall as well as a bonus DVD that will feature Clapton’s performances at the legendary venue throughout the years, footage from the Cream Farewell Tour 1968, the Journeyman tour from 1990, a UN Benefit performance with Zucchero from 2004, the Cream Reunion shows from 2005, and a performance at the Prince’s Trust Benefit from 2010. The extended packaging is rounded out by a 12”X12” sixty-page hardback photobook.

Those that pick the standard DVD and Blu-ray sets weren’t left out in terms of bonsues. Both the DVD + 2CD and Blu-ray + 2CD packages feature the bonus live track ‘Little Queen of Spades.’ Included in the main concert’s set list are many of his biggest hits including: ‘Cocaine,’ ‘I Shot The Sheriff,’ ‘Layla,’ ‘Wonderful Tonight,’ ‘Tears in Heaven’ and even a cover of the classic blues tune ‘Hoochie Coochie Man’ among many others. The complete set list for the show will be announced soon. The DVD + 2CD package will retail for MSRP of $29.98, the Blu-ray + 2CD package for $34.98, and the Deluxe DVD + 2CD package for $69.98. Audiences can check out a trailer for the upcoming concert recording online now via YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm8mD_vUfcg&feature=youtu.be. More information on this and other titles from Eagle Rock Entertainment is available online now at:

 

Website: http://www.eagle-rock.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EagleRockEnt

Twitter: http://twitter.com/EagleRockNews

 

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.