Spare

ECM debut for Michael Formanek, whose formidable bass has propelled groups from the Mingus Big Band to Tim Berne’s Bloodcount and has backed artists as diverse as Chet Baker and Elvis Costello. A bandleader and composer in his own right, he is heard here with some highly-talented colleagues in an outgoing programme of his own pieces, whose unorthodox constructions set up strong solos and fiery group interaction.

Poised to blow the cobwebs off life and unleash some much-needed wit and charm upon us, Sleaford Mods are back with their astonishing 6th studio album, entitled Spare Ribs.

Following the wake of Picturesque Machstickable Messages From the Status Quo, Spare Parts tries to imitate the psychedelic sound that was so fashionable at the time. The disc is known for being one of the less-fortunate made by the British band, and they have even despised it on some occasions. In fact, 1969 was going to be the most dismal year in the story of Status Quo. Urged by Pye's request to reach the charts at any rate, the songs in the record reflect the band's frustrated attempts to please the company. The result is an irregular album that does not reach the imaginative sound of their earlier songs nor the brightness of their subsequent records.

Rooted in the Blues and spanning out to include a variety of rock, tropical and blues styles, while using all the spare keys available to an accomplished guitarist, this music rocks, rolls and captures emotions. Jimmy Thackery has been writing and performing his original music for over 40 years, hitting the stages of large venues and getting down at your favorite neighborhood bars. An impeccable crowd pleaser, his loyal fans never miss the chance to see his live performances, and he relishes their commitment by giving the best show possible every time he and The Drivers set the downbeat. Spare Keys is a showcase of Jimmy's styles, many of which he gained by playing with and learning from some of the famous original Bluesmen, such as Muddy Waters and Otis Rush. Jimmy leads you on an emotional journey through the jungle, around some heartache and into the floating clouds that you'll want to ride as long as possible.