King Crimson: A Prog-Rock Case Study
Sean MurphyAlthough it was already suggested that Pink Floyd is the archetypal prog-rock band (HERE), an equally compelling case could be made for King Crimson. By practically any criteria, King Crimson…
Search for the New Land
There are times when I need to simply post a song, without comment. This is easier when no comment is particularly necessary. This is one of those times. If you…
Improving Upon Perfection, Part Six
(Parts 1-5 of this series here, here, here, here and here) "On The Sunny Side of the Street" is a song with a long, wonderful history. Like so many jazz standards,…
A Week of Americana. Part Four: James Brown
On this most American of holidays, it seems appropriate --if not obligatory-- to celebrate the most American of geniuses. It does not get any more American than James Brown, does…
A Week of Americana. Part Three: The Doors
If the discussion is going to turn to American rock bands, it would be impossible to avoid R.E.M. Fortunately, I already dealt with their legacy and am on record declaring…
A Week of Americana. Part Two: Captain Beefheart
Don Van Vliet (R.I.P.), with his idiosyncracies, individuality and iconoclasm, represents virtually everything that is profoundly beautiful about America both as a concept and actuality. Like his compatriots Syd Barrett…
Wayne Shorter: National Treasure
Wayne Shorter is about to turn 80. He continues to record, play and inspire. Of the many musicians I admire and seek in some way to emulate (as artists, as…
Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown… (Revisited)
How do you know you've made an indelible impact on culture? Here's how. Listen: this story has been told so many times it is inextricable from the history of America.…
Four Albums and a Film: The Best Summer Entertainment
The Congos - Heart of the Congos (1977) Great art knows no seasons. Nevertheless, some music is made for—or at least can be fully appreciated during—specific times of the year.…
Eric Dolphy at 85
Eric Dolphy would --and should-- have turned 85 today. He remains one of my favorite musicians of all time. My tribute, reposted several times over the years, is below. ***…