Music
John Rankin, Last in April First in May (Independent)
Less is often more. I know, that’s not profound, but it’s still true, as John Rankin’s Last in April First in May demonstrates. The album is most intriguing and involving […]
Ronnie Hawkins, Mojo Man/Arkansas Rockpile (Collector’s Choice)
The albums included on this two-for-one reissue of Ronnie Hawkins’ albums from the 1960s were recorded with members of the Band, and there’s a lot to love here. For fans […]
Joseph Lastie, Jr., The Lastie Gospel Family (Preservation Hall)
These new releases from Preservation Hall share the same appeal: They reflect real people being real. The Lastie Family Gospel is the sound of vocalist Bettie Ann Lastie, organist Reverend […]
Alejandro Escovedo, Real Animal (Back Porch)
On Real Animal, Alejandro Escovedo looks at growing up punk, but he doesn’t necessarily romanticize those days. More accurately, the album’s tone reflects someone who loves the life he has […]
Carl LeBlanc, Seventh Ward Griot (Preservation Hall)
These new releases from Preservation Hall share the same appeal: They reflect real people being real. The Lastie Family Gospel is the sound of vocalist Bettie Ann Lastie, organist Reverend […]
Kenny Neal, Let Life Flow (Blind Pig)
Let Life Flow sounds like Kenny Neal is trying to make a blues album, but he keeps getting interrupted by life. It has songs you expect: A fine version of […]
Stanton Moore Trio, Emphasis (on the Parenthesis) (Telarc)
The flattest moment on Emphasis (on Parenthesis) is the moment right up the Stanton Moore Trio’s alley. “(Late Night at the) Maple Leaf” sounds like the jazz funk riff and […]
Terrance Simien
In February, OffBeat covered the controversy surrounding the first Grammy to be awarded for Best Cajun or Zydeco Album. The nominees were Louisiana artists Terrance Simien, the Pine Leaf Boys, […]
Bobby Lounge, Bobby’s Back in Town LIVE (Abitian)
I’m a fan of the Bobby Lounge but I’m not a fan of live albums, and Bobby’s hasn’t changed my mind. The songs remain the songs, though some benefit from […]
T-Bone Burnett, Tooth of Crime (Nonesuch)
You’ve got to go back to 1980’s Truth Decay or maybe 1986’s self-titled country album to find anything resembling a lighthearted T Bone Burnett album, and his return to recording […]
