REVIEWS:
What’s the read on the latest reissue releases and live performances by classic rock artists? What biopics, movies or documentaries are worth seeing in theaters and at home? What books about rock music and the people who make and work with it are worth reading. Our team also takes a fresh look at notable works in our Album Rewind series
Billy Idol Recounts Dancing With Danger: 2015 Review
Idol recalls his punk-rock past, wild years on booze and drugs plus English family background to give an honest look at the star and the man behind the sneer
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‘The Trogg Tapes’: Beyond ‘Wild Thing’
The newly reissued 1976 LP, featuring original lead singer Reg Presley, showcases both the rocking side and the gentler tunes of the British band
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New Riders of the Purple Sage’s Debut LP: Country + Rock + Jerry Garcia = ?
They began as a country-influenced offshoot of the Grateful Dead, but, by the time they recorded this debut, they’d morphed into something else altogether.
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Elton John Resumes Farewell Tour (Again) After Brief Postponement
The star returned to the stage once more to continue his much-delayed Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. His most recent postponement was due to a positive Covid test
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Elvis Costello Pumps It Up on ‘The Boy Named If’: Review
Costello is in fine form and his backup band, the Imposters, still cooks. His trademark vocals and colorful vignettes continue to fascinate
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Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’: Struggle & Liberation
The album, a landmark release for Motown, remains a monument to Marvin Gaye’s big heart and soul, and a prophecy for our time.
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David Bowie’s ‘Brilliant Adventure’ Box Set: Review
While the new collection is not the high point of the recent series of Bowie boxes, it does have a lot to recommend it including a BBC Radio concert from 2000
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David Bowie’s Brilliant Last Will and Testament
Bowie’s final album, ★ (Blackstar), ruminates on mortality with some of his most challenging artistry, and a serious statement about life and death
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Zappa’s ‘200 Motels’ Soundtrack 50th Anniv. Box Set: Review
if you’re a serious fan, you’ll be glad to hear that ‘200 Motels’ has been dramatically expanded. But prepare to wade through a lot of silliness.
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Jeff Lynne’s ELO at Radio City Music Hall: 2016 Review
Lynne’s gift is his ability to build complex arrangements into the simplest, most hummable of tunes. The concert was a taste of classic rock at its finest
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