The View

Chad Wackerman

CMP

For his second solo album, drummer Wackerman assembled many of the musicians that also appeared on his first disc,Forty Reasons. Allan Holdsworth (guitar), Jim Cox (keyboards), Jimmy Johnson (bass), Walt Fowler (trumpet) and Carl Verheyen (guitar). Many of the thirteen tracks were improvised in the studio. Fresh and highly listenable. (CS)

 

Ordinary Average Guy

Joe Walsh

Epic

There's usually cause for celebration when Joe releases a new album. This time is no different. Nothing new here though, merely a reprise of past performances. Although definitely foot-tapping fun and a pleasure to crank, one wonders where the substance went. The title cut says it all. (SC)

 

War (Peace)

War

Avenue Records

Hmm, it sounds like they never left. Disco put a damper on them for awhile but that's over and they're baaack. If you've EVER liked War (Low Rider, Cisco Kid, Why Can't We Be Friends) then you'll love this one. Only three original members are here, but their sound remains intact. (BB)

 

Envoluptuousity

Waterlillies

Sire

A new duo from New York City, although their sound is like one of the many British synth/pop bands to cross these shores of late. Multi-instrumentalist Ray Carroll provides a colorful tapestry for Jill Alikas' haunting multi-layered vocals leaving plenty of room for her to add the finishing touch. (SC)

 

Affairs Of The Heart

Jody Watley

MCA

The same old repackaged "dance" music. There's not much new here and certainly nothing to get too excited about. You'd be better off with one of the other more talented soul sirens. But if you like this kinda stuff then jump on it. If not, avoid it like the plague. (SC)

 

Get A Grip On The Blues

Garth Webber

Blue Rock'It

At first listen you'll probably think you're hearing Les Dudek. Y'know, upbeat, bluesy material with strong, fluid, tasty guitar licks. Yeah man, Garth can play. This has been on my CD player for over a week and each time I play it the volume knob gets turned up a notch. (SC)

 

Weezer

Weezer

DGC

I don't know about you, but I like a good racket in the morning with that first cuppa joe. Lately these guys have been providing that (at an extreme volume, no less.) Great harmonies, lotsa chunky guitar and simple, yet emotional lyrics, blend into a great, noisy wake-up call. Crank it. (BB)

 

Ritual Of Love

Karyn White

Warner Bros.

If this is the kind of stuff that made her last album platinum, she's officially on a roll. This slides into the groove and never slips out. Sensual lyrics, danceable rhythms and a sexy attitude that won't quit. Just try to keep your bod still. "Feet's don't fail me now!" (SC)

 

Patrice

Mark Whitfield

Warner Bros.

The second album from a gifted young guitarist that harkens back to the days of acoustic jazz. At 24 he has more "chops" than some seasoned veterans. He's in good company with sidekicks Jack Dejohnette and Ron Carter. Ranging from self penned tunes to standards that are delightful beyond words. (SC)

 

Space Wrangler

Widespread Panic

Capricorn

Before being signed to the resurrected Capricorn label they recorded this for a small independent label from Athens, Georgia. It's as powerful as their Capricorn debut from last Summer. Songs based on a good "jam riff" from a band that's not afraid to let the music run its course. Yum.(SC)

 

Widespread Panic

Widespread Panic

Capricorn

A healthy dose of "New Southern Music". Recalls the raw guitar based rock of years past. A potent collection of clever, memorable, no-nonsense tunes played with a conviction and style unheard of nowadays. Strong instrumental consistency coupled with offbeat lyrics result in an urgent musical statement. (SC)

 

Under The Influence

Wildside

Capitol

These guys sound like all the other bands who make a living trying to bang heads. Surprisingly enough, they pull it off better than most of the veterans slogging through the arena circuit lately. A balanced mix of rockers and ballads that'll end up in many darkened, smoke-filled teenage bedrooms. (SC)

 

Blue Light 'Til Dawn

Cassandra Wilson

Blue Note

The ninth album by this prominent jazz vocalist is a departure from her previous works. This time the instrumental accompaniment has been pared down to give her voice room to caress each song as only she can. Two originals and ten well known classics are graced by her fabulous voice. (BB)

 

Rising Above Bedlam

Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart

Oval

After contributing bass on two PIL albums and releasing two solo albums in the mid -'80s, he met guitarist Justin Adams. Together, they perfected the idea of Invaders Of The Heart. A conglomeration of Funk, Reggae and Islamic influences with diverse moods and textures. Relaxing, substantial and immediately enjoyable. (SC)

 

(SC) Stephen Curtis

(BB) Stephen Curtis AKA Ben Bland

(CS) Stephen Curtis AKA Clive Sweeney

Index

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