The Musologist
In order to celebrate 5 years of the Musologist, I thought I’d do a ‘New Releases’ and ‘From The Vaults’ like I did in the beginning. When I chose what to review (partially based on the Vinyl albums I got for Christmas) it occured to me that a lot of the musicians who were making awesome records back in the 60’s and 70’s were still releasing albums today that were among the best records of the year. Whether you buy tangible music or stream…enjoy!
From The Vaults
Genesis – Live (1973)
I chanced upon this old favourite in the excellent ‘Evil Eye Records’ in Harrogate (shameless plug!) and it reminded me what an excellent introduction to Peter Gabriel era Genesis it is. It also has that rare quality in a live album that transports the lister to the night it was recorded.
Jeff Beck – Truth (1968)
Although Jeff sadly passed last year, this debut album introduces the careers of Rod Stewart on Lead Vocals and Ronnie Wood on Bass. Both of these talents soon jumped ship and recorded classics together in ‘The Faces’ and beyond! This record is also essential listening for any fan of guitar music, it being one of the greatest blues/rock albums ever.
New Releases
Peter Gabriel – i/o (2023)
50 years on a top 5 album from Mr G. Not too shabby. After a 21 year break, this comes as a very welcome return. Sombre and reflective at times, then funky and ‘in the pocket’ next. The thing that helps to set this album apart as well, is the ‘Bright-Side’ and ‘Dark-Side’ mixes. At first I thought this was a gimmick (Hello Shania in 2002!) but once I’d heard the album many times in one mix, the other was very noticeable in its contrast. Almost like a twofer!
The Rolling Stones – Hackney Diamonds (2023)
Ok. I’m not particularly into the Stones. I have maybe a handful of favourites from their 62 year career. But this album IS AMAZING! Check out ‘Mess it up’ for evidence. So whilst Rod the Mod appears on an album with Jools Holland, his buddy from The Jeff Beck Group/The Faces days happens to be laying down the the jam with this lot. Mr Ron Wood on Guitar (he’s not a newbie though, he’s been with them since ‘75). Play Loud.
