Radiohead should have called themselves the Chameleons, but that name was already taken. They have reinvented their sound on every one of the releases, and Kid A is no different. Guitars are few and far between, having been replaced by a more electronic and industrial sound. The sound may be perplexing to fans of OK Computer, but it’s refreshing to hear a band try something different. Kid A is an excellent CD, and leaves the listener wondering what Radiohead will come up with next.
Paul Simon – You’re The One
Paul Simon is a legend. He’s been making great music for over 30 years. He’s sold millions of CDs, won numerous awards, and has had dozens of hit singles. He hasn’t lost a step. You’re The One is a nuanced, subtle, highly personal and autobiographical CD. Simon has a gift for lyrics and the perfect pop hook, which are in abundance on this CD. At the age of 58, with a wife and family, his songs are reflective and full of wisdom. They range from pop to jazz to world music to folk. He may or may not be crazy, but he still is a pop virtuoso after all these years.
Web Link: http://paul.simon.org/
Slash’s Snakepit – Ain’t Life Grand
Former Guns ‘N Roses guitarist Slash is in great form on Ain’t Life Grand. He is one of the best guitarists in rock and roll, and his playing alone makes this a worthwhile CD. New Snakepit singer Rod Jackson sounds a lot like Whitesnake vocalist David Coverdale. His bluesy voice along with Slash’s guitar and a strong rhythm section make for an inspired and high quality CD. Slash’s Snakepit’s sound is much more like the Rolling Stones or Ted Nugent than Guns ‘N Roses.
Web Link: http://www.slashssnakepit.com/
The Tubes – Tubes World Tour 2001
The Tubes have always been a groundbreaking band. They always seem to be one step ahead of the trend, which has sometimes hurt their success over the years. They got their first record deal by submitting a video instead of a demo tape. That was about 5 years before MTV. Tubes World Tour 2001 is a live CD of the band’s greatest hits, plus a couple of new studio songs. As a live act, the Tubes are fantastic. You can feel the energy between the band and the crowd during each song. Fee Waybill delivers a powerful performance, and you can tell he’s really enjoying himself. That’s refreshing for a band that’s been around for over 20 years and could easily sound stale or like they are on autopilot. Tubes World Tour 2001is one of those CDs that actually make you want to go see the band in concert so you can experience what you’re hearing.
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