Radio Times 11 July 2020

With the inevitable heat of summer already making itself at home, there’s few options so tempting as to roll down the windows and embrace the enthusiastic nostalgia of melodic rock brought by the uplifting graces of Tokyo Motor Fist and the vibrant charm of their latest album. “Lions” is so sweet and smooth that listening to it feels almost like a guilty indulgence, something that one would sneak a taste of alone in the kitchen by the blue light of an open fridge. There’s something raw and authentic about it that makes it instantly irresistible for fans of melodic hard rock at any point from the 80s to the present. Tokyo Motor Fist have captured the most decadent tones of melodic rock and are releasing a bright ray of sonic sunshine in a world that certainly needs that pure brand of brightness…

Yeah, yeah, “A Thousand Miles”—that was nearly two decades ago. (And it still bangs.) And if you haven’t been paying attention since, you might be surprised by the elegant and often idiosyncratic folk-pop that Carlton’s been putting out over the years. Produced by Dave Fridmann, who’s worked with bands from Sleater-Kinney to MGMT, the songwriter’s sixth album is full of strange little twists and turns—more Dirty Projectors than Top 40 radio. Take the cavernous title track, backed by gentle synth arpeggios and sampled rainfall, or the psychedelic fuzz of “I Can’t Stay the Same,” an ode to evolution.

René Thomas (1927-1975) was considered the best European jazz guitarist of his generation by fellow musicians and critics, but his career was marred by the pervasive skepticism of jazz fans. Despite trying hard to carve his own space, he never obtained the recognition he deserved for his immense talent, perhaps because of his introverted character and prolonged withdrawals from the scene.

First fully authorised release comprising Colosseum recorded live at the BBC 1969-1971. Over 60 tracks, many recordings new to CD - over 6 hours playing time. Painstakingly researched by Colin Harper, Nigel Lees and Ashley Wood. Restored and remastered by Eroc for optimum sound quality throughout. In-depth liner notes by Chris Welch with a foreword by Pete Brown. Includes 44-page booklet, photographs and contributions from former band members.