Something old....something new (#3)

"John Barleycorn Must Die" by Traffic (originally released 1970 -
remastered 2001)

   My house is burning and I can only save an armful of albums, this is among the first I'm scooping up. Traffic's finest moment started as a Steve Winwood solo project and morphed into a full blown Traffic album as Chris Wood (sax & flute) and Jim Capaldi (percussion) returned to the fold. Recorded in the English countryside, it is the perfect atmospheric storm of folk, rock and jazz with Winwood's soulfully keening voice atop the mix. The album begins with the piano driven instrumental "Glad" which leads directly into "Freedom Rider". Both tunes allow ample space for masterful sax and flute improvisation. "Empty Pages" features Winwood's incredible Hammond B3 organ and soul searing vocals. "Stranger to Himself" finds Winwood playing a scorching guitar. Is there anything this musical genius can't do? (answer - no). Next we hear a beautifully moving version of a traditional English folk song "John Barleycorn". The release ends with the epic "Every Mother's Son". Seven minutes of soaring guitar, organ and another stunning vocal  performance. These songs effortlessly flow together creating the all-to-rare release that demands to be listened to in it's entirety, and you will, again and again. A PERFECT ALBUM! The remaster's sound is excellent and includes two fine bonus tracks from the sessions which fit the mood of the release.

"Big Echo" by The Morning Benders (released 2010)

  My introduction to The Morning Benders was the fantastic opening track "Excuses"(a big reverb soaked tune with a string section and a dare-you-not-to-singalong chorus). I was hooked immediately but  couldn't believe they would sustain that high quality for a complete LP, happily I was wrong. This is a huge sounding record employing a gorgeous wall of sound throughout. Layers of percussion, guitars and harmony-laden vocals result in rich soundscapes and a rewarding listening experience. The album begins with the sound of a needle touching vinyl so be ready for echoes of the best 60s music in the arrangements and production (think Brian Wilson and Beatles). All this would mean nothing if the writing wasn't so strong. Each song has it's individual sonic charms and highlights. "Cold War (Nice Clean Fight)" is a quick burst of catchy pop. "Promises" swims in a psychedelic soup of guitars and harmonies. "All Day Daylight" begins with melodic verses that build to an anthemic chorus. This is The Morning Benders second release and you can call it chillwave, mellow or retro, but whatever the label it's a very enjoyable album that I have played often over the past year.