Tried and True or Being New. The veteran bands Steely Dan, founded in 1972, and Metallica, founded in 1981, must decide between reinvention or refinement in their new albums. By Jon Pareles. [New York Times: Arts]

The new Dan CD is ultra hip, as you'd expect. Metallica? I don't think so.

Say What? [] 4:41:48 PM  Permalink  

"I'm a voting adult and it's my job to fix it". DIY goddess Ani DiFranco on political responsibility in the Bush era, the "lying, whoring media," life in New Orleans and her bottomless pit of self-loathing. [Salon.com]
Say What? [] 4:31:20 PM  Permalink  

 As Pat says in the liner notes to the achingly beautiful, contemplative "One Quiet Night", this music was recorded in his home studio for his own enjoyment. On it he explores an unusual tuning on a new acoustic baritone guitar. I love this album.

Another recent instrumental gem is Bill Frisell's "Intercontinentals." Downtown jazz intermingles with Nashville and other elements of Americana, seamlessly combined with the music of Mali, Brazil, and Greece. Hypnotic, exotic, loops and grooves.

Coming down to earth, I'm really enjoying Gillian Welch's "Soul Journey." It just gets better with repeated listenings. This review sums it up nicely.

Say What? [] 12:56:59 PM  Permalink