Monthly Archives: October 2000

James Armstrong: Got It Goin’ On

Bluesman James Armstrong is back, two years after a crazed intruder’s attack left his fretting hand useless and his young son severely injured. His son is nearly recovered, and his left hand is slowly mending. "I’m the best two-fingered guitarist … Continue reading

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Dave Alvin: Public Domain—Songs From the Wild Land

On “Songs from the Wild Land”, singer/songwriter and former Blaster Dave Alvin explores America’s and his own musical roots. Alvin says he wanted to produce something timeless. The songs on this record have no known authors, and many are so … Continue reading

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Photek: Solaris

Rupert Parkes, better known as Photek, has been a dominant figure in Drum and Bass, but his latest effort, “Solaris”, is a departure. He explores other textures and tempos, from ethereal sonic washes to the distinctive “house” vocals of Robert … Continue reading

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Tom Burris: Jabbering Trout

Eclectic songwriter/guitarist Tom Burris steps out in the Big Apple with a new (since his last CD) group, a batch of new songs, and a new producer (John Alagia of Dave Matthews fame). Released: 10/1/2000 Label: Safari Records Genre: Rock … Continue reading

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Bob Weir and Ratdog: Evening Moods

"Evening Moods" is the first solo recording in 17 years by former Grateful Dead guitarist and vocalist Bob Weir. The album features strong songwriting and lively improvisations in a band led by Weir and accomplished bassist Bob Wasserman. Weir spent … Continue reading

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Will Downing: All The Man You Need

Singer/Songwriter Will Downing is prolific. His latest release, "All The Man You Need", is his eighth album in just twelve years. On this recording, Downing sets aside his contemporary jazz styling and gives wings to his R&B roots. Released: 7/8/2000 … Continue reading

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Tom Tom Club: The Good, The Bad and The Funky

"We were waiting for Grunge to die," says Chris Frantz, when asked why the Tom Tom Club took eight years to release a new album. On "The Good, The Bad and The Funky", the 80’s rhythm masters have teamed their … Continue reading

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DJ Muggs: Soul Assassins Vol. II

After the successful 1997 release of the first Soul Assassins album, DJ Muggs found himself pestered to produce another hot line-up of rhymers backed up by his dark beats. This time he has a different take on the East Coast/ … Continue reading

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Stephen Simmonds: Spirit Tales

On his U.S. debut, Swedish singer/songwriter Stephen Simmonds has compiled a soulful collection of original songs. His evocative melodies embrace R&B, jazz and pop, and his lush vocals evoke Stevie Wonder and The Beatles. Released: 9/19/2000 Label: No Label Genre: … Continue reading

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Black Eyed Peas: Bridging the Gap

Known for their extravagant live shows, featuring break dancing and live musicians, the Black Eyed Peas paint hip-hop culture with a broad palette. Taboo is Native American and Hispanic, apl.de.ap hails from the Philippines, and will.i.am is from East L.A. … Continue reading

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