Album Mini-review: Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox — The Essentials
File next to: Buddy Rich, Either/Orchestra
On paper, it seems like an inspired concept: assemble a top-notch band that can play anything, bring together a wildly varied collection of contemporary songs from a variety of genres, and recast those songs in the styles of yesteryear (hot jazz, swing, etc.). And it works just as well on record. PMJ – a rotating cast headed by Bradlee – is nothing if not prolific: since debuting with a 2013 digital EP, the collective has released literally hundreds of songs via weekly online postings. Now smartly picked up by a major label, PMJ presents a kind of best-of showcasing their creative breadth. There are lots of winners here, but one of the most effective is a reading of the Celine Dion hit, Titanic‘s “My Heart Will Go On.” Recast here as a doo-wop extravaganza with the vocals of Mykal Gilmore, it positively sizzles.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day since 2018). The 4000-plus interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he is co-teaching a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- more than 30 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: 40 Great Concept Albums will be published in 2024. Read even more about him here.