Jim Brock

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.

Guitarist, singer, and harmonica ace Robin Rogers' life was full of hard knocks and sad turns, along with a few delightful coincidences, and she earned the right to sing the blues the tough, old-fashioned way, but sadly, she lived for only a short time after gaining her widest recognition as a solo artist.

The album features return guest appearances by Chuck Leavell, (Stones, Allman Bros., Sea Level, John Mayer) Willie Weeks (bass, Eric Clapton) and Jim Brock (drums Kathy Mattea) as well as some of the best musicians from the Washington, D.C. area including members of Tom's current performing and road band: Tommy Lepson - keyboard & vocals, Joe Wells - drums, Josh Howel - vocals & percussion, Steve Wolf bass, and two different horn sections led by arranger/baritone saxophonist Christ Watling. This CD is comprised entirely of original compositions. The title cut refers to Robert Johnson, who was a legendary Mississippi delta blues musician in the 1930's whose music and life are surrounded by much legend and folklore.

"No Frills" is the sixth studio album by American singer Bette Midler, released on Atlantic Records in 1983. No Frills was Midler's first studio album in four years, following the movies The Rose, Divine Madness! and the ill-fated Jinxed!. The rock and new wave influenced album was produced by Chuck Plotkin, best known for his work with Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen, and included three single releases; the ballad "All I Need to Know", a cover of Marshall Crenshaw's "My Favourite Waste of Time" and Midler's take on the Rolling Stones classic "Beast of Burden".