Marcus Thompson

Percussionist Jim Brock gets first billing on this CD that he co-leads with Van Manakas, but Manakas' guitar is the main solo voice, he contributed all nine originals, and he is largely responsible for the date's success. The music ranges from being classical-oriented to funky to atmospheric, and there is even a slight amount of straight-ahead jazz. Manakas dominates the proceedings and is joined on various selections by Brock (whose colorful sounds from his percussion set uplift the music), keyboardist Gary Marcus, electric bassist Steve Kim, drummer Rick Dior, Phil Thompson on reeds, and Alan Kaufman on accordion. This intriguing set is worth giving a few listens to.

It’s now been over forty years since the release of the first two Roxy Music albums. Unlike almost all other art-rock records, these two would still be perceived as startlingly unique even if released today. The combination of singer/songwriter Bryan Ferry and non-musician extraordinaire Eno’s otherworldly contributions created a sound like no other. Persona-wise, the 6’2″ Ferry projected a so-cool image as a retro-ized strangeoid with a smashingly singular vocal delivery including quivering, foppy elements mixed with a rich baritone.

Taj Mahal & Keb' Mo' - TajMo (2017) {Concord Records CRE00431} (Complete Artwork - jewel case with booklet)
EAC rip (secure mode) | FLAC (image)+CUE+LOG -> 314 Mb | MP3 @320 -> 111 Mb
Full Artwork @ 600 dpi (jpg) -> 153 Mb | 5% repair rar
© 2017 Tajmo Records / Concord Records / Universal | CRE00431 / 0888072024649
Blues / Modern Acoustic Blues / Contemporary Blues / Modern Electric Blues

Keb' Mo' and Taj Mahal have been friends and colleagues for years but 2017's TajMo is the first time the pair have recorded an album. It also marks the first time Taj Mahal has entered a studio since 2008 – Keb' Mo' last released an album in 2014 – and if this seems like it should be a momentous occasion, what's striking about TajMo is how casual the whole affair is. The duo designed TajMo to be an upbeat, life-affirming listen, something that emphasizes how the blues can also offer a good time.

This recording wasn’t planned. It was a gift that came from the world essentially stopping in place in early 2020 and not fully continuing again for some time. Most of us went into silent, or stealth, mode and I was no exception. It was the first time in over 25 years that I had the time and resources to deep dive into my composing in a way that wouldn’t be interrupted by going on the road. I ended up with over 30 new tunes, I finished many older tunes, and ended up with 6 or 7 full records to release.