Dead Mans Time

The early '70s saw a mini-boom in America for Canadian-born rockers – apart from major players like Neil Young and the Band, and singles chart fixtures like the Guess Who, there was an entire wave of one-hit and near-one-hit wonders. The Stampeders were part of this group, a trio originally from Calgary, Alberta, who hit the Top Ten in 1971 with the infectiously catchy "Sweet City Woman." They later charted low in the Hot 100 with "Devil You," and brushed the Top 40 in 1976 with "Hit the Road Jack."…

Despite the title, this is some very warm and friendly early jazz-rock work from the brilliant Norwegian guitarist/composer. (This album originates from prior to Rypdal joining ECM, and is on Polydor Norway.) Recorded in 1968 with longtime collaborator Jan Garberek on sax & flute, this music features a large horn section, excellent bass work, and lots of rich/tasteful Hammond playing. Though only 21 at the time, Rypdal was already making incredibly mature, smooth and sophisticated music which - though sounding very 60's - still plays well today. Light-Latin and blues influences are heard; along with big-band arrangements that are by turns tightly arranged and charmingly loose.

Although everyone's heard their classic power ballad "Love Hurts" (originally written for the Everly Brothers), and many also know the contemporaneous single "Hair of the Dog," perhaps only their loyal fans realize that Scottish hard rockers Nazareth have continued a full-bodied recording and touring career that has extended well into the new millennium…