Laura Nyro Was New York’s True Earth Mother Diva
Laura Nyro’s catalogue confirms an admirable range that extends far beyond her mythic status as New York’s earth mother diva with a ‘60s urchin soul.
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The Altons Explore and Discover ‘Heartache in Room 14’
Southeast Los Angeles’ the Altons celebrate 1960s soul balladry on Heartache in Room 14. It’s a perfect date night album.
The Peace and Purpose of Mike Farris’ Captivating Music
Rock ‘n’ roller and soul man Mike Farris returns with a new album recorded in Muscle Shoals and blends all of his musical influences into a delicious stew.
Laura Nyro’s Complete Musical Story Shows Her Genius
Those unacquainted with Laura Nyro might be surprised at how familiar she sounds. That’s because she has influenced so many contemporary musicians.
Kelley Mickwee’s Soulful, Spirit-Driven Affection
From the first song on Kelley Mickwee’s Everything Beautiful, you hear her expressive joy and feel her desire to create a cohesive and provocative piece of art.
How Underground FM Radio Saved Rock
This is what happened when college-age music enthusiasts raided empty FM radio studios and played whatever turned them on.
Lollise Makes a Splash With Brilliant Debut ‘I Hit the Water’
Lollise’s I Hit the Water is brilliant, swirling, and compelling with its blend of Afrobeat, soul, and electronics. It’s a debut deserving all your attention.
Minnie Riperton’s ‘Perfect Angel’ at 50: Imperfectly Angelic
Soul singer Minnie Riperton made full use of her multi-octave voice and songwriting talent on 1974’s Perfect Angel, with her still-beloved hit, “Lovin’ You”.
The Tedeschi Trucks Band Soar Over the Moon in Berkeley
Whether blues power can help save a world gone mad from dystopian decline remains to be seen, but the Tedeschi Trucks Band appear ready to do so or die trying.
Swamp Dogg Goes Bluegrass and Americana on ‘Blackgrass’
On Blackgrass: From West Virginia to 125th St, Swamp Dogg interprets soul, funk, and jazz themes through the lens of bluegrass and Americana forms.
Ugandan Jon Muq’s Music Is Warm and Familiar on ‘Flying Away’
Jon Muq’s voice and presence come off as natural and unaffected. One has to listen carefully to appreciate the breadth and the subtlety of his talents.
Lady Wray Ignites Berlin with Joy
With the pipes to scare a grizzly bear, soul music’s Lady Wray ignites Berlin with the full range of her joyful, thunderous mezzo-soprano.