Stephen Sondheim, the respected, admired, and, let’s face it — worshipped — composer-lyricist behind some of Broadway’s most beloved and celebrated shows, died today at 91. Mr. Sondheim was the Shakespeare of musical theater. Now we know for certain that “there are giants in the sky.” Even more than the melodies, Sondheim’s lyrics stand alone as … Continue reading
Latest Entries
New Music: Taylor Rae — ‘Mad Twenties’
Taylor Rae — Mad Twenties The dreamy voice of singer/songwriter Taylor Rae is one of those sublime, flexible instruments so beloved by composers of songs who love to let the vocals take flight. No doubt, her skillful, confessional delivery of the words makes her equally revered by lyricists as well. She might have been influenced … Continue reading
New Bluegrass: Daryl Mosley — ‘Small Town Dreamer’
Daryl Mosley — Small Town Dreamer Label: Pinecastle Records Daryl Mosley‘s second solo album, Small Town Dreamer, begins with a reminder of how I fell in love with music in the first place. The song, “Transistor Radio,” is as true as it is pleasing. Anyone who grew up in a small town a few years … Continue reading
New Holiday Music: Lori McKenna — “Christmas Is Right Here”
Lori McKenna — “Christmas Is Right Here” Label: Thirty Tigers Produced by Lori McKenna, Luke Laird & Barry Dean, Christmas Is Right Here is a six song EP that does exactly what a new addition to your home’s treasured Christmas music collection should. It reminds, it celebrates, it contemplates, and it inspires. For McKenna, Christmas is an ever-changing kaleidoscope … Continue reading
New Roots Music: John McTigue III — ‘It’s About Time’
John McTigue III — It’s About Time Label: Mc3 Records It’s About Time, John McTigue III’s first full length solo recording is an album of rich, textured songs that create and sustain an atmosphere worthy of regular repeat visits. From the opening track, “Deep Ellum Blues” by Joe and Bob Shelton, through “Starbuck (Buckaroo)” by Bob … Continue reading
New Music: Martha and the Muffins – ‘Marthology’
Martha and the Muffins — Marthology: In and Outtakes Label: Idla Canadian rock band Martha and the Muffins scores big with their just released compilation Marthology: In and Outtakes, a collection of rarities and demo versions of past songs that will thrill longtime admirers and gain plenty of new ones. Even though it’s been a decade since … Continue reading
New Children’s Literature: Grand Jeté and Me (by Allegra Kent)
Grand Jeté and Me Written by Allegra Kent, Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser Publisher: Harper Collins (2021) If you’re lucky, there’s that one relative who takes the time to show you what matters most in life. That one adult who understands that beauty, imagination, art, music, and other concepts are not only as important as … Continue reading
New Christmas Music — Brett Eldredge’s ‘Mr. Christmas’
‘Tis the season for fans of Platinum-selling recording artist Brett Eldredge to be delighted with a brand-new holiday album from Mr. Christmas himself. The aptly titled Mr. Christmas is available now and features the classics we all know and love alongside two never-before-heard originals, including the title track “Mr. Christmas.” Written by Eldredge and frequent collaborator Ross … Continue reading
Madeleine Peyroux — Careless Love
There is nothing careless about Madeleine Peyroux’s long awaited re-release of her 2004 album, Careless Love. With her smoky voice and knowing delivery, she makes each song on this Deluxe Edition her own, whether she’s singing vintage tunes by W.C. Handy and Hank Williams, or contemporary songs by Leonard Cohen and Elliott Smith. Producer Larry … Continue reading
Darin & Brooke Aldridge — This Life We’re Livin’
Darin & Brooke Aldridge — This Life We’re Livin’ Label: Billy Blue Records The past year hasn’t really inspired me to open up, listen, and review many of the constant arrival of CDs that find their way to me at my pandemic hideout far away from New York City. I appreciate the effort it takes … Continue reading
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