Rock and Roll

Dr. J’s Desert Island Albums: The Living Rock and Roll Circus with Kiss

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The concept of desert island records and songs has become a fascinating cultural phenomenon, reflecting the profound impact that music can have on our lives. The idea stems from the hypothetical scenario of being stranded on a deserted island with only a limited selection of albums or songs. In this isolated setting, individuals are forced to choose a handful of musical companions that would accompany them through the challenges of solitude. An album in the desert island collection is considered a person’s absolute favorite, one they could listen to repeatedly and never tire of, making their social and physical isolation on an imagined desert island more bearable and more survivable.- Playing these songs and records transports the listener somewhere else, somewhere comfortable and meaningful.

These selections often transcend mere musical preferences, representing a deeply personal and emotional connection to specific tracks or albums. Desert island records are not just about the tunes themselves; they encapsulate memories, emotions, and moments in time. The chosen music becomes a source of solace, inspiration, and a reminder of the outside world.

People’s desert island picks vary widely, showcasing the diversity of musical tastes and the unique ways in which individuals relate to different genres and artists. Whether it’s the soothing melodies of a favorite album or the empowering lyrics of a cherished song, the desert island concept underscores the transformative power of music in shaping our identities and sustaining our spirits, even in the most isolated circumstances. As a cultural phenomenon, it highlights the enduring significance of music as a universal language that transcends boundaries and connects us to our deepest selves.

“Kiss Alive,” released on September 10, 1975, stands as a landmark album in the history of rock music, particularly in the realm of live recordings. This double-disc compilation not only captured the raw energy and charisma of Kiss’s live performances but also catapulted the band to new heights of success. This album — the band’s fourth — is a desert island record for us here at Your Tuesday Afternoon Alternative. In explaining why this record is among the all time favorites of Dr. J, we explore the significance of “Kiss Alive,” delving into its impact on the band’s career, the live album genre, and its enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians and fans. I received a copy of the album a few years after its release and devoured the record. I grew up in a small Minnesotan farming community, population 550 (seriously!) and the thought of attending an iconic rock and roll concert was a dream that would not come true for a few years for me. However, with “Kiss Alive” I felt as if I were attending a dynamic rock and roll concert. It seemed like I was there in the audience. And that sense of being at a show was a significant characteristic of this record. No other record in my collection has had such a powerful influence on me when I put it on the record player.

“Kiss Alive” emerged during a crucial juncture in Kiss’s career. By 1975, the band had released three studio albums — “Kiss” (1973), “Hotter Than Hell” (1974), and “Dressed to Kill” (1975) — that garnered a dedicated fan base but hadn’t achieved mainstream success. The decision to release a live album was a strategic move, intended to capture the essence of their explosive live shows and convey the power of their stage presence to a wider audience. The album was compiled from recordings of concerts in Detroit, Cleveland, Wildwood, and Davenport during the band’s “Dressed to Kill” tour. The choice of a live album was not only a response to the lukewarm commercial reception of their studio albums but also a testament to Kiss’s belief in the authenticity and intensity of their live performances.

“Kiss Alive” turned out to be a game-changer for the band. The album peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 chart and marked Kiss’s first top-ten album. Its success was instrumental in propelling the band into the mainstream, introducing them to a broader audience. The raw, unbridled energy captured on the album resonated with fans, and “Kiss Alive” quickly became a commercial juggernaut. This success continues today as 97% of Google users like the album.

The album breathed new life into songs that had previously gone unnoticed. Tracks like “Deuce,” “Strutter,” and “Black Diamond” took on a new dimension in the live setting, solidifying their place in the Kiss repertoire. The live versions became definitive renditions, and in some cases, they even surpassed the studio recordings in popularity.

“Kiss Alive” didn’t just elevate the status of the band; it also played a pivotal role in redefining the live album genre. Prior to its release, live albums were often considered secondary to studio recordings, serving as a means for artists to fulfill contractual obligations rather than a medium for artistic expression. “Kiss Alive” challenged this perception by demonstrating that a live album could capture the spirit and dynamism of a live performance, providing listeners with an immersive experience that transcended the studio environment. The success of “Kiss Alive” opened the floodgates for other bands to explore the live album format as a legitimate and powerful artistic statement.

One of the distinguishing features of “Kiss Alive” is its cinematic quality. The album wasn’t just an audio experience; it was a sonic journey that transported listeners into the heart of a Kiss concert. The sequencing of tracks, the interplay between band members and the audience, and the seamless transitions between songs created a narrative arc that mirrored the ebb and flow of a live performance.

The album opens with the iconic sound of a roaring crowd, setting the stage for the sonic assault that follows. Each song is like a chapter in the Kiss saga, with Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss each contributing their unique elements to the musical narrative. The album’s pacing and structure were carefully crafted to maintain the momentum and excitement of a live show, making it a cohesive and immersive experience for the listener.

Beyond its impact on the music industry, “Kiss Alive” became a cultural phenomenon. The album cover, featuring the iconic image of the band against a stark black background, captured the mystique and theatricality that defined Kiss’s image. The visual impact of the cover art complemented the sonic intensity of the music, creating a cohesive and memorable package.

Kiss’s stage presence and elaborate costumes, coupled with their signature face paint, became synonymous with the band’s identity. This visual spectacle, combined with the energy of their live performances as showcased on Kiss Alive, contributed to the band’s larger-than-life persona. Kiss wasn’t just a musical act; they were a multimedia experience, and “Kiss Alive” served as a gateway for fans to immerse themselves in the sonic world of Kiss.

“Kiss Alive’s” influence extends far beyond its initial release. The album laid the groundwork for the subsequent success of Kiss and paved the way for other artists to explore the potential of live recordings. It remains one of the best-selling live albums of all time and has been certified multi-platinum, a testament to its enduring popularity.

Moreover, “Kiss Alive” continues to inspire generations of musicians. The unbridled energy, the connection with the audience, and the sense of spectacle have become touchstones for artists seeking to create memorable live experiences. The album’s impact on the development of the hard rock and heavy metal genres is undeniable, with countless bands citing Kiss as a major influence.

Kiss Alive stands as a pinnacle in the history of live albums, showcasing the transformative power of a well-executed live recording. Its impact on Kiss’s career, the live album genre, and popular culture as a whole cannot be overstated. Kiss Alive is not merely a document of a band’s live performances; it is a sonic and visual journey that captures the essence of a musical revolution.

As Kiss celebrates its legacy after their final live concert, “Kiss Alive” remains a timeless testament to the band’s ability to connect with audiences and leave an indelible mark on the world of rock music. It is a sonic time capsule that transports listeners back to the mid-1970s, allowing them to experience the magic of a Kiss concert whenever the needle drops on those iconic vinyl grooves.

Faves of 2023: Elephants and Starts – Get Your Own Army

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Why do some bands mean something to us? What is it about the sounds, the instruments, the lyrics… the whole of the sum of parts that resonate and make us care?

The appreciation of music is a complex and multifaceted experience that varies from person to person. There are several reasons why people care about certain music. Music has the power to evoke strong emotions and connect with people on a deep, personal level. Certain songs or genres may resonate with individuals based on their life experiences, memories, or current emotional states.

Elephants and Stars, the Canadian band led by singer and guitarist Manfred Stittmann and bassist Mike MacMillan, is a muscular blend of musical prowess and lyrical brilliance that captivates all who hear their songs. For us at YTAA, Elephants and Stars are a perfect band. Their sound transcends rock and roll boundaries, imagine fusing indie rock with catchy pop elements, creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. All too often today bands run screaming from power chords, danceable bass lines and crisp, solid drumming as if creating hooks in songs was wrong and to be avoided.

However, being limited is not a problem for Elephants and Stars! From album to album through the band’s impressive discography that was created in a few short years: “Recovery” (2020), “Dreamland” (2021), “Last Chance Power Drive” (2022) and “Get Your Own Army” (2023) — the band only becomes better and stronger at creating incredible melodies, passionate guitar driven tones, and powerful vocals that carry a sense of surreal and absurd on topics that matter such as relationships that fail no matter how much effort we extend in order to try and save them (“Bled Out At The Scene”) and the over powering sense of loneliness that accompanies being surrounded by distant, non-caring others (“Lost in New York City” and “Green Light to Pasadena”). As R.E.M. noted we are all “alone in a crowd, in the crowded barroom.”

One of the band’s standout qualities is their ability to craft melodies that linger in your mind long after the music stops. Each song feels like an intimate journey, a maze of personal introspection because their lyrics feel torn from our secret personal diaries, weaving through intricate layers of instrumentation while maintaining a sense of raw authenticity within a powered rock and roll framework. Stittmann’s hauntingly emotive voice adds depth and sincerity to the already evocative lyrics, drawing listeners into a world of introspection and contemplation all the while the music feels as if it is veering into the pathway of a runaway train; and that ride is thrilling all along the way. Going off the rails never felt so real and so good.

What truly sets Elephants and Stars apart from so many bands is their knack for personal storytelling through music. Their songs often explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, resonating with audiences on a deeply personal level — see our previous full review of their fantastic Get Your Own Army. Whether it’s an upbeat anthem or an emotional yet scratchy heartfelt voice, the band infuses every track on “Get Your Own Army” with an undeniable sincerity that tugs at the heartstrings and reminds us that we may be flawed but we are still worthy of care and concern.

Their live performances are nothing short of mesmerizing. The band’s chemistry on stage is palpable, creating an electric atmosphere that leaves the audience spellbound. Each member’s talent shines through, delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally stirring.

Overall, Elephants and Stars is a band that possesses the rare ability to transport listeners to another realm with their music. “Get Your Own Army” is a passionate continuation of the band’s efforts to make rock and roll songs that matter, that mean something. Their songs have a resonating personal and timeless quality that makes them instantly relatable yet endlessly captivating within a classic rock and roll approach. With their distinctive sound and genuine artistry, Elephants and Stars have undoubtedly secured a place among the most promising rock and roll bands today. For all of these reasons and more, this music spoke to us at Your Tuesday Afternoon Alternative and is one of our favorite releases of 2023.

Shane MacGowan: A Poet of the Streets, a Balladeer of Rebellion

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In musical history, certain figures stand out as rebels, challenging conventions and giving voice to the unspoken sentiments of their generation. Shane MacGowan, the enigmatic frontman of The Pogues, was undeniably one such luminary. With his gravelly voice, poetic lyricism, and unapologetic embrace of Irish roots, MacGowan became a defining force in the world of punk and folk fusion. As we celebrate the indomitable spirit of his artistic legacy, it’s essential to delve into the essence of the man who breathed life into timeless anthems of rebellion and romance with a bemused wry smile.

Shane Patrick Lysaght MacGowan was born on December 25, 1957, in Pembury, Kent, to Irish parents. Raised in Tipperary, Ireland, he absorbed the rich tapestry of Irish culture, folklore, and music from an early age. This upbringing would later weave its way into the fabric of The Pogues’ music, shaping the band’s distinctive sound and catapulting them to the forefront of the folk-punk movement in the late ’70s and 1980s.

The Pogues emerged in the early 1980s, a tumultuous period where punk’s raw energy collided with traditional Irish folk, giving birth to a genre-bending sonic landscape. MacGowan, with his unruly hair, torn clothing, and a perpetual cigarette dangling from his lips, embodied the rebellious spirit of the times. His persona was a paradox — a punk poet who found solace in the echoes of Ireland’s past while navigating the gritty reality of London’s streets.

At the heart of MacGowan’s brilliance lay his songwriting. His lyrics were a patchwork of vivid narratives, drawing inspiration from the struggles of the working class, the beauty of love, and the tumultuous history of Ireland. “Fairytale of New York,” arguably The Pogues’ magnum opus, encapsulates this duality. Released in 1987 and included on the excellent “If I Should Fall from Grace with God,” the song is a bittersweet tale of love, dreams, and disappointment, set against a backdrop of an Irish immigrant’s Christmas in New York City. MacGowan’s poignant lyrics, combined with Kirsty MacColl’s haunting vocals, created an enduring masterpiece that transcended genres and resonated across generations. The song is just as powerful today as it was when it was first shared with the world.

MacGowan’s ability to infuse punk’s rawness with traditional Irish folk melodies was a testament to his musical prowess. The Pogues’ sound was a collision of tin whistle, accordion, and mandolin, melding seamlessly with electric guitars and drums. This fusion created an anthemic quality that resonated with audiences far beyond the punk and folk scenes. The band’s discography, including albums like “Rum, Sodomy & the Lash” and “If I Should Fall from Grace with God,” became a sonic pilgrimage for those seeking a rebellious yet nostalgic journey through the Irish soul.

Beyond the music, Shane MacGowan’s stage presence was a spectacle itself. Often appearing disheveled and seemingly unbothered by conventional norms, he commanded attention with an almost hypnotic charisma. His performances were raw, unfiltered, and charged with an energy that mirrored the rebellious heartbeat of punk. Whether he was stumbling across the stage or bellowing lyrics with raw intensity, MacGowan’s presence was a visceral experience that left an indelible mark on anyone fortunate enough to witness it.

However, behind the chaotic exterior and raucous performances, Shane MacGowan grappled with personal demons. Substance abuse, particularly his well-documented struggles with alcohol, became a defining aspect of his narrative. It was a tumultuous dance with self-destruction that added an element of tragedy to his story. Yet, even in the midst of personal battles, MacGowan’s commitment to his craft remained unwavering. His resilience, coupled with an unyielding passion for storytelling through music, showcased the depth of his artistic dedication.

As the years passed, MacGowan’s physical appearance became a visual testament to the toll his lifestyle had taken. The once-youthful firebrand now sported weathered features, a visible testament to the battles fought both on and off the stage. Despite the toll of time and excess, his voice retained its distinctive rasp, a testament to the enduring power of his artistry.

The Pogues disbanded in 1996, marking the end of an era. While the band members pursued individual projects, MacGowan continued to make music and collaborate with various artists. His solo work, including the critically acclaimed “The Snake” album, showcased a more introspective and nuanced side of his songwriting. Even in the absence of The Pogues’ collective energy, MacGowan’s solo endeavors demonstrated his ability to evolve while staying true to his roots.

Shane MacGowan’s impact extends beyond the realm of music. His influence reverberates through the works of countless artists who found inspiration in the collision of punk’s defiance and folk’s storytelling. The Pogues’ legacy, anchored in MacGowan’s vision endures as a testament to the enduring power of musical rebellion and cultural fusion.

In the wake of his passing, the world mourns not just a musician but a poet, a storyteller, and a provocateur. Shane MacGowan’s journey was one of highs and lows, a tumultuous ride through the corridors of creativity and chaos. His legacy, however, is etched into the very fabric of musical history, an indomitable force that continues to inspire those who seek the unbridled spirit of rebellion and the timeless beauty of poetic expression.

Heather Redman & The Reputation: A Funky Soulful-Blues Infused Rock Odyssey

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In the ever-evolving kaleidoscope of rock and blues, it’s rare to come across a band that can channel the raw essence of classic genres while injecting a fresh and exhilarating spirit into their music. Enter Heather Redman & The Reputation, a group of fantastic Dayton, Ohio musicians whose debut album is nothing short of a revelation in the world of contemporary rock and roll. If you’re craving the kind of music that grabs you by the soul and refuses to let go, then look no further. This is Heather Redman & The Reputation, and their self-titled album is a tour de force of funky soulful blues-infused rock that takes you on a journey through love, pain, longing, and everything in between.

Heather Redman’s husky, soulful voice immediately captivates the listener, drawing them into the world of her lyrics. The Reputation’s instrumentation serves as the perfect backdrop to Redman’s compelling storytelling, creating a synergy that is seldom encountered in modern music. Their self-titled album takes you on a mesmerizing musical journey, exploring a variety of emotional landscapes through a potent blend of soul, blues, rock, and blues influences.

The opening track, “Everybody,” sets the tone for the entire album. Redman’s voice takes center stage, conveying the emotional depth of the lyrics. It’s a heartfelt tour-de-force ode to community where all are welcome, with a bluesy, slow-tempo groove that pulls you in and doesn’t let go for a single second. The vocals are exceptional. Whether she whispers or screams, Redman sings with unrestrained passion that would destroy a lesser singer. I would pay money to hear Heather Redman sing the phonebook. The guitar work courtesy of Matt Webster on this track is exceptional, capturing the essence of classic soulful blues while adding a modern flair. The keyboards feel like they are dancing around the room. The percussion propels the song forward so well that you are a bit surprised when the song ends. It’s a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.

As the album progresses, “Step Back Girl” showcases Heather Redman’s songwriting prowess. The lyrics are poignant and fun, painting a picture of flirtation, fascination, and being a little star-struck. The Reputation’s musicianship is on full display, with a jangly guitar that adds a layer of emotional depth to the song. This track is a testament to the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music without talking down to their audience. There is a wink that the object of affection may be important to the narrator of the song as well as the young lady filled with longing watching the desired musician up on stage.

The album takes a turn with “Wait For Me,” a high-energy track that fuses rock with blues in an electrifying way. Redman’s voice soars, showing her versatility as a vocalist. The Reputation’s rhythm section locks into a tight groove, propelling the song forward with an infectious energy. “Wait For Me” is a stand-out track that demonstrates the band’s ability to switch between different moods and styles seamlessly. This song swirls from the start of the organ to the punch of the chorus with a beautiful harmonic blending of voices and emotions. The song captures the pushes and pulls of hope, desire, and the slow realization that we are all waiting.

One of the defining qualities of this album is its lyrical depth and swirling maelstrom of musical inventiveness. “Daydream” is a prime example, a song that seems to delve into themes of reflection and regret. Redman’s lyrical delivery is passionate and introspective at the same time, and the band’s movement is at times restrained and in other moments goes full bore like their lives depend on it. The instrumentation provides the perfect canvas for Heather Redman to paint her emotional narrative. The use of horns in this track is a beautiful touch, adding to the overall quality of the song.

The album reaches its climax with the Salvadore Ross cover of “Broken Bones,” a mesmerizing track that is a testament to the band’s songwriting and musicianship. Heather Redman’s vocals are hauntingly beautiful, and the Reputation’s arrangement is powerful. This song is a perfect encapsulation of the band’s ability to create music that is both emotionally resonant and musically engaging. The guitar solo in “Broken Bones” is a thing of beauty, showcasing the band’s virtuosity.

As the album approaches the end, the choice of the Amber Hargett penned evocative tune “Prove It To Me” provides a poignant and intimate moment. Redman’s voice is soulful and resolute with a dash of defiance conveying a sense of demand while carrying under the surface hints of closure and acceptance. The Reputation’s acoustic instrumentation in this track is a departure from the rest of the album, showcasing their versatility. It’s a bittersweet clarion call to ‘Prove It To Me‘ that leaves a lasting impression. The drums and percussion on this song from veteran drummer Dan Stahl shine on this song.

Every soulful album should have a passionate plea and Tryin‘ — the penultimate song on the record — is a barn burner that just simply leaves everything on the floor. Heather Redman’s lyrics are a testament to her songwriting abilities. Her words cut to the core of human emotions, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The lyrics of this song are thought-provoking and relatable, making it easy for listeners to connect with it on a personal level. Across the eight songs on the entire record, Redman’s storytelling is vivid and evocative, creating a strong emotional resonance that lingers long after the music stops. The listener is left wondering, what happens after the music fades.

The closing track, “The Getdown,” is a fitting end to the album. It’s a triumphant and anthemic song that encapsulates the essence of Heather Redman & The Reputation. The band’s chemistry is on full display, with a powerful, driving rhythm section and searing guitar work. Redman’s vocals are filled with determination and resolve, making it clear that this band has arrived and is here to stay.

Throughout the album, Heather Redman & The Reputation effortlessly blend elements of blues and rock, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. The interplay between Redman’s expressive vocals and the band’s impeccable instrumentation is a match made in musical heaven. This album isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a narrative journey that takes the listener through the highs and lows of life’s experiences.

The Reputation’s musicianship is equally impressive. The band members are not just skilled instrumentalists; they are true artists who understand the nuances of their craft. Their ability to seamlessly switch between different styles and moods is a testament to their versatility and adaptability. The guitar work, in particular, is a highlight, with solos that are both soulful and electrifying. The organ/keyboards pull a sonic sleight of hand in creating a sway to the songs that add to the bounce and joy of each tune.

Heather Redman & The Reputation’s self-titled album is a triumph in modern rock music because it is so rare for a debut album to smoothly transition across styles and there is no awkwardness or jarring shift, the songs flow as if moving downstream. It’s a rare gem that captures the spirit of classic blues and rock while infusing it with fresh and contemporary energy with a healthy helping of soul. The band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music is nothing short of remarkable, and Heather Redman’s vocals are a force to be reckoned with. You cannot look away when Heather Redman sings, it’s as if her singing possesses an unrelenting gravitational pull.

In a musical landscape that often prioritizes the trendy and the ephemeral, Heather Redman & The Reputation stand as a testament to the enduring power of authentic and emotionally charged music. This album is a must-listen for anyone who craves music that goes beyond the surface and delves deep into the human experience. Heather Redman & The Reputation have not only made a name for themselves; they’ve etched their reputation into the annals of rock and blues music. This is the band you will want to remember.

So, if you’re in the mood for a musical journey that will move your soul, make sure to give “Heather Redman & The Reputation” a spin. This is an album that demands to be heard and it will not take ‘no’ for an answer. This record will leave a lasting impression and firmly establishes Heather Redman & The Reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the musical spheres of funk, soul, rock, and blues. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness their sly musical magic.

Matt Moran & The Palominos in Dayton!

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This past Tuesday it was a real pleasure to have Matt Moran, Dan Moran, Jonas Walker, and James Gedda in the YTAA studio and then have the opportunity to go to The Hidden Gem Music Club and see them play a fantastic show. The concert was ably opened by James Gedda. His baritone and alt-country swagger reminds a listener of Dave Alvin crossed with Darius Rucker with just a pinch of Sturgill Simpson. Gedda’s humor and authentic sensibility set the perfect mood for the night. Give a listen to his excellent music!

Then Matt Moran & The Palominos kicked the night into the stratosphere! An incredible set of songs that featured tunes from Matt Moran’s excellent Heartache Kid and Heartache Kid Acoustic records. The band was tighter than a fused bolt. Across a sonic theater that included a high-energy cover of ‘Atlantic City,’ the band barrelled like a runaway train going downhill. To say that the band demonstrated the kind of chemistry that a group would sell their soul to possess is an understatement.

The harmonies between Matt and Dan Moran had that blood harmony that is only held by brothers who not only grew up together but know where all the bodies are buried and hold the secrets of one another close to their hearts. Speaking of Dan Moran, his bass runs were impressive and yet never overwhelmed the songs. If bass is the secret weapon in music, then Dan is the guard of the armory.

I would be remiss if I did not mention the incredible work behind the drum kit. Jonas Walker added the right amount of percussion, fills, and sways to every song regardless of the tempo. His enthusiasm was infectious while bobbing his head, smiling, and adding the occasional yelp and scream but only when it added spice to the song.

Matt’s voice is an all too rare gift. Even when he is singing a song written about characters he created from his fertile imagination about a restaurant that he regularly drove by but could not go in because the reality might not match the story written in one’s mind – ‘Break Her Heart‘ – you would swear that he was singing about a heartbreak that he could only have experienced himself to be able to draw upon such emotion.

If you are unfamiliar with Matt Moran & The Palominos, then you have some musical homework. Don’t worry, you are going to love it. Matt is on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Bandcamp. Plus his own site.