Dimension in Fear (1998) Ted V. Mikels, Ron Jason, Nicole West, Gene Ellison Jones, Thriller

The Spanish and Portuguese influence in Domenico Scarlatti’s rhythms and, perhaps to a lesser extent, melodies are distinctive features of his keyboard style. Sophie Yates has chosen these evocative gestures in Scarlatti’s sonatas as determining characteristics of her recital Fandango – Scarlatti in Iberia. In fact, only four of the 13 items in her programme are by Scarlatti himself, the remaining pieces being by José Larrañaga, Seixas, Sebastian Albero y Añaños, and Soler, whose colourful ‘Fandango’ concludes her disc. Readers who know their Scarlatti will not need to be reminded either of the bold originality or of the wonderful variety of colours and sentiments present in his harpsichord sonatas.

Having gained attention in the Chicago area, the Anthony Gomes Band released their debut album in 1998. Blues in Technicolor has some of the hottest blues guitar work you'll ever hear. One of the strongest tracks, "Misery for Company," has a B.B. King feel to it, with powerful emotional vocals and vibrant guitar work. "Bad Luck Child" conjures up memories of some of the great Texas blues bands with its forceful power chords and strong, driving lead guitar. Variety is not a key word in describing this album, and should not be the reason for choosing it. If you want really hardcore blues music, this fits the bill. An amazing guitarist who truly has a feel for blues arrangements is what you'll find in Gomes.

Artist Lilah Bloom's life is upended when her widowed brother decides to remarry a strong-willed business woman.