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Wicked Grin – John Hammond – Every once in a while a new CD is released which restores my faith in the music business. John Hammond’s Wicked Grin is that CD. It features a collection of songs written by Tom Waits who also guest-stars on several tracks with blues man Charlie Musslewhite. Hammond’s voice is made for the blues and this material is perfect for him. Songs such as Heartattack and Vine, 16 Shells from a Thirty-ought Six, and 2:19, will have you cranking up the volume and jamming all the way home…. especially if you live down home. (Blues)You Had it Coming – Jeff Beck – Wow! Hold on to your air guitar, because Jeff Beck is back with a vengeance that makes you realize that the other Yardbird’s alumni, Clapton and Page, have been asleep for the past twenty years. Featuring sultry vocalist Imogen Heap on two of the tracks, this CD offers song after song of hard rockin’, bass thumpin’, screamin’ guitar virtuoso music. The power trio on this album of guitar, bass and drums is a 21st Century version of Cream or one of Beck’s earlier bands, Truth. Rollin’ and Tumblin’, Dirty Mind, and Left Hook will leave you gasping for breath. (Rock) I am Shelby Lynne – Shelby Lynne – This 1999 release by country-western crossover artist Shelby Lynne, provides her with an opportunity to play the type of music that she has always loved. Previously stuck in the traditional Nashville sound, Lynne now offers a breakthrough CD featuring sensual blues, lazy afternoon dance music and classic pop. Dusty Springfield and Aretha Franklin come to mind as you listen to Leavin’, Life is Bad, and Thought it Would be Easier. This album may serve as a re-introduction to this gifted vocalist, who has over a decade of recording experience. (Country-Western) Never Neverland – Jane Monheit – This is a triumphant debut CD for Jane Monheit. Jane’s extraordinary jazz vocals backed by veteran jazz musicians Ron Carter, Lewis Nash and Kenny Barron, capture the listener with her lilting, honey-hued sound. The album opens with a wonderful song, Please be Kind, which will have you thinking…is that Keely Smith? Monheit then moves on with each song offering swinging tunes, blues ballads and romantic crooning. Dindi, My Foolish Heart, Twisted…I could list them all, but your best bet is to give this one a try. (Popular Jazz) Shake it Up – Boney James – I saw Boney and his band in concert at SCSU a few months ago. He is the epitome of cool jazz. On this CD James shares the spotlight with his band and trumpeter Rick Braun . Opening with R.S.V.P. and cruising into Grazin’ in the Grass (baby, can you dig it?), you won’t be able to help it when your head starts to bob and your body starts to move. The Library recently acquired some of Boney’s other CDs including Sweet Thing, Body Language and Seduction. Put on your pork pie hat and groove to the romantic and funky sound of Boney’s sax. (Popular Jazz) Back to Recommended Books Plus
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