essay Archive
30 Oct 2024
Take Five: Classics Written by Jim Capaldi
Jim Capaldi is perhaps best known as the drummer in Traffic. That group pioneered progressive rock while exploring other styles as well. Capaldi and Steve Winwood were the only members […]
29 Oct 2024
Take Five: Classics from Phil Lynott
Phil Lynott was one of rock’s great front men. The Black bassist from Dublin, Ireland was also one of rock’s finest lyricists, penning songs that were cinematic in their vivid […]
19 Oct 2024
Take Five: Classics from Joe Jackson
When Joe Jackson first appeared on the music scene in 1979, he was promoted as part of music’s new wave. But the British-born pianist, songwriter and singer has always been […]
09 Oct 2024
Five Notable Covers of Songs from Steve Wonder’s ‘Fulfillingness’ First Finale’
Child prodigy Stevie Wonder scored many hits as a Motown artist. But it was only when he broke free of the label’s machinery and began to work as a truly […]
03 Oct 2024
Take Five: Great Beatles Covers
The soundtrack to The Beatles’ first film, A Hard Day’s Night, was released 60 years ago in the United States. Because of a licensing arrangement, that record wasn’t released on […]
29 Sep 2024
Take Five: Standout Rick Davies Tracks by Supertramp
While Supertramp enjoyed a comparatively brief time in the spotlight – mostly around the release of their sixth album, 1979’s Breakfast in America – the group’s catalog is filled with […]
28 Sep 2024
Take Five: Great Early Covers by the Rolling Stones
One of the biggest bands in all of rock history, the Rolling Stones have had a remarkably long and successful career. The band is still touring to rave reviews in […]
24 Sep 2024
Take Five: Alan White Recordings Outside of Yes
Alan White was a drummer extraordinaire. He took over the drum seat in Yes when Bill Bruford left (for the greater challenge of King Crimson, so the story goes). But […]
21 Sep 2024
Take Five: Jim Gordon
The life story of Jim Gordon is a tragic one; convicted of a brutal murder, he would spend the second half of his life in prison. After years dealing unsuccessfully […]
24 Aug 2024
Take Five: The Beach Boys’ ‘Endless Summer’
The music of the Beach Boys is a cultural icon. Songs about surfing, cars, girls defined an era. Before the Beatles led the charge of the British Invasion, the group […]