Eagles – Desperado (Album Review On Vinyl & Apple Music)

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Eagles – Desperado (Album Review On Vinyl & Apple Music)

A year after their astonishingly good Self-Titled debut, the Eagles returned with Desperado; an album arguably leaning more towards a country-styling, than their debut, as they focused on the old west in American culture. Considering Desperado as a concept album, one can't help but see a correlation between Desperado and Elton John's similarly themed 1970 released Tumbleweed Connection. Perhaps the Eagles copied that concept, but if that was ever an element, it has never been discussed to my knowledge. Either way, as a fan of the old west, when the theme is done well, as it is in this case, it can be extraordinarily rewarding for the listener. 

Also rewarding is the 2014 vinyl reissue that I’m fortunate to own. Sonically, it is a beautiful reproduction that is dynamically pleasing with an incredible soundstage that is as wide as it is deep. I love it when the speakers disappear, and I become immersed in the music. Part of the immersion can also be attributed to the album artwork that is striking in its presentation and this particular reissue has a textual cover, reportedly the same as the original 1973 vinyl release. While the red text, on the near-black background, looks a little washed out and therefore more difficult to read, it is a major improvement over the Self-Titled debut whereby the text on the inner sleeve was basically unreadable. 

While this re-issue was marketed as replicating the original artwork, the album label is different from the original releases I’ve seen. Where they had a plain white background, this edition features a cloudy background. It isn’t really an issue, but I do appreciate accuracy should a record be considered a replica. Nevertheless, this particular release is mastered and pressed perfectly and therefore I can wholeheartedly recommend it to any fan of the Eagles. 

For those of you not interested in collecting music on physical formats, the Apple Music stream, an Apple Digital Master, is exquisite in its own right and you really won’t long for a better reproduction; unless, of course, you compare the releases as I have and in that instance, this vinyl reissue offers a more captivating experience. 

SIDE ONE

Doolin-Dalton is incredibly compelling. That harmonica just reaches into my soul every time I listen to this masterpiece. It’s also important to note that it is less harsh on the vinyl version when compared directly to any of the digital counterparts.

Twenty-One is too ‘country’ for my liking. The banjo is an acquired taste and while I don't dislike it, I feel it is played too fast for this song and subsequently, it’s as though I’m listening to two different songs when Twenty-One starts playing.

Out Of Control is a solid rock song that I feel would have sounded better on On The Border, just as James Dean is. If you didn't know, James Dean was recorded for Desperado but held back at the time as it didn’t match the album perfectly.

Tequila Sunrise is a beautifully relaxing song that gets better the more often I hear it. I don't know as I could ever tire of this song as it uses every part of the soundstage to ensure you're enveloped in sound. Amazing!

Desperado, despite not being released as a single, has become a fan favourite and is one of the Eagle's very best recordings. Vocally it is a little rough around the edges, but that gives the song character and I couldn't imagine it with any more spit and polish.

SIDE TWO

Certain Kind Of Fool is fantastic with the perfect tempo, guitar strum, and vocal delivery. Certain Kind Of Fool is a hidden gem that casual fans would likely miss but is undoubtedly one of the best songs on the album.

Doolin’ Dalton (Instrumental) is a distraction and while it flows well into Outlaw Man, Desperado would have been fine without this deviation. Interestingly, this instrumental track has never been listed on the back of the record sleeve. It is written on the record label, however. Other than a typo that has remained consistent throughout the years, I can’t help but wonder why this may be the case.

Outlaw Man is a killer song with a spectacular soundstage and while positioned on the B-side of the album, it’s an A-side in my opinion. I love it! On a side note, this song would have been perfectly suited to Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours era.

Saturday Night is a lovely ballad. Perfect harmonics and just an all-around great song. As good as some of the tracks on Side One are, it is the second side that makes Desperado a must-own album. Astonishingly good!

Bitter Creek is one of my all-time favourite Eagles songs. You may not have heard it before as it is unlikely to be played live and doesn’t appear on any of the Eagles’ career perspective releases, but there is something very special here. The simplicity of that guitar strum and intermingling vocal, interspersed with the harmonies, is nothing short of amazing.

Doolin-Dalton (Reprise) is enjoyable but I would have been extremely happy if Bitter Creek was the final song on the album. I’ve never been much of a fan of the reprise, as I would generally prefer to hear the original track again, however, I do enjoy the electric guitar tracking instead of the harmonica as it creates a unique experience that works remarkably well.

Similarly, Desperado (Reprise) builds upon the original song without disrupting the magic that made the original so special. It’s a perfect way to close the album, ensuring I’ll listen again and stay within the Eagles’ catalogue.

Desperado is an album of hidden gems, combined with a few hits and a couple of misses. However, it all comes together in a coherent experience that is thoroughly enjoyable and worthy of the Eagles.

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Eagles – Self-Titled (Album Review On Vinyl & Apple Music)

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Eagles – Self-Titled (Album Review On Vinyl & Apple Music)

Some of the most interesting albums are debuts as they can either make or break an artist. Regardless of the outcome, it’s always interesting to see how an artist evolves, especially from a retrospective viewpoint. That said, I don’t believe I’d be wrong in suggesting that the Eagles had already found their sound on this Self-Titled debut and went about refining their talents on each subsequent release.

Album covers in the 70s were probably as unique as they have ever been, with artists and record labels seeing what would work and what wouldn’t on the large vinyl canvas. The Eagles’ debut is no exception as the cover would not only encompass the bands country meets rock musical style perfectly but would fold out to a larger poster that one could hang or admire while listening to the album. Over the years, the Eagles’ Self-Titled release has been reissued numerous times and the edition I’m fortunate enough to own is the 2015 vinyl re-issue with the original album artwork. 

Yes, it looks impressive, but as the record doesn’t sit in a dedicated enclosure, one has to be careful not to pick the record up, out of its outer sleeve, and watch as the record slips from one’s hand across the room. Okay, so perhaps that’s an exaggeration, but if you’re new to vinyl, these unique designs can be a challenge when dealing with the larger format. 

The inner sleeve, while not used to house the record, is plain and somewhat lacklustre if I’m to be honest. The red text on the natural background is incredibly difficult to read and subsequently wasn't well thought out in my opinion. The label itself is plain but elegant and I must admit that I love looking at record labels. I even lust over Compact Discs and in a bygone era, it wasn’t uncommon for me to appreciate the designs of the Compact Cassette. I'm not sure why it’s such a fascination, but I find it a thoroughly enjoyable part of the record collecting process.

Of course, as impressive as the record looks, it would be pointless if the audio quality wasn't up to par. Well, I think we can all agree as to just how sonically stunning the Eagles are, and this debut is no exception. The record is as black as the ace of spades, perfectly flat, and has no noticeable inner groove distortion or surface noise. While purists may lament that a significant majority of reissues are being sourced from high-resolution digital files, rather than the original master tapes, the pressing of this 2015 reissue is flawless with a full analogue sound that simply has to be heard to be believed. 

Compared to the Apple Music stream, an Apple Digital Master, the vinyl record is far superior and subsequently, you won’t see me part with this vinyl record anytime soon. Yes, it is that good and for fans of the band, I highly recommend this particular reissue. That isn’t to say, of course, that the album can’t be enjoyed via Apple Music, or another streaming service, it most certainly can, but if you have the opportunity to own this album on vinyl, you really should pick it up.

SIDE ONE

Take It Easy is perfect for a country drive. When I hear this Eagles standard, I can only imagine the excitement of fans when they put the record on for the first time in 1972. It must have blown their minds for it still astonishes me to this day as to how developed the musicality of the Eagles is on this debut. In many respects, it's good that Jackson Browne was unable to finish the song and required Glenn Frey’s involvement. I simply couldn’t imagine the Eagles debut without Take It Easy. Jackson Browne did, however, record a rendition for his 1973 album, For Everyman, and while it’s a lovely interpretation, that doesn’t stray far from the Eagles’ original, Browne’s interpretation failed to set the world on fire as the Eagles’ version did.

Witchy Woman is a killer track that really showcases just how well the vocal harmonies of the Eagles’ members flow together. Witchy Women is, in many respects, the perfect classic rock song that encompasses many musical eras and styles. Seriously, I could be here all day just listing them, but let’s just enjoy listening to this amazing tune, shall we?

Chug All Night is a slow starter but develops into a solid song that is thoroughly enjoyable. While it may not be a fan favourite, the album wouldn’t be the same without the frantic beat and low volume harmonies that are off-the-chart good. A great rock song!

Most Of Us Are Sad is sensational! The drum and bass track blow my mind, as does the guitar strumming and vocal harmonies. Music doesn't get much better than this.

Nightingale was almost not included on the album as producer Glyn Johns felt it was substandard. One could hardly argue with him as it is filler, a B-side at best, but the record label, in this case, won and it’s of course included. In reality, it isn’t fundamentally a bad song, it just isn't of the same calibre as the other songs on the album. 

SIDE TWO

Train Leaves Here This Morning is a lovely country-focused tune that has a beautiful soundstage and depth that envelops you in sound.

Take The Devil is one of the best songs on the album, and in the Eagles catalogue, that very few know about as it doesn't make an appearance in live performances or on career perspective releases. The rhythm is seriously addictive, and the musicality of the entire recording is uncompromising. 

Earlybird has a fun little entrance, but it can be equally infuriating if you're not in the mood for those chirpy bird sounds throughout. Nevertheless, while it may be a B-side, it's a solid song that fits well with the style of the album.

Peaceful Easy Feeling is a lovely song but the guitar twang mid-song is a little too high pitched for my liking and I subsequently find it distracting. A shame considering it is an otherwise exceptional song with yet another beautiful vocal presentation. 

Tryin' is a solid song to close the album with. Nothing to write home about, but a perfect B-side if there ever was one. Tryin' certainly makes me want to listen to the album again and stay within the Eagles’ extensive catalogue of music.

The debut Self-Titled Eagles album is astonishingly good from start to finish and shows a band with a signature sound that normally takes others years to develop. It really is one of their greatest albums and even if you're a casual fan, you'll find something to love on this Self-Titled debut.

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Aerosmith – Get A Grip (Album Review On Vinyl, CD & Apple Music)

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Aerosmith – Get A Grip (Album Review On Vinyl, CD & Apple Music)

It was 1994, the Grammys were playing on television, and Aerosmith came out on stage and performed Livin’ On The Edge. In my mind, it was a faultless performance and while I know that I can re-experience it on YouTube, I don’t want to. Something as powerful as this first exposure, that would result in a life-long love of Aerosmith’s music, should be left to my interpreted memory and not toyed with.

Memories of this performance, and the album Get A Grip, came flooding back recently when my son decided that he wanted to go through my CD collection and find an album to listen to. I said nothing, didn’t encourage him either way, and he selected Aerosmith’s Get A Grip; it was a proud parenting moment.

As a music-loving father, I try to ensure that my library of music is always accessible. I don’t believe in taboos and while this album isn’t overly explicit, it is Aerosmith. Everything is an innuendo. I also believe in the freedom of artistic expression and subsequently have never purchased a ‘clean’ version of any album. I know many people are opposed to profanity, but I strongly believe music is art, hence a ‘clean’ version is akin to an abridgement of the artist’s original intent. I also feel that it is better to have questionable subjects raised in the home, rather than in the controversial and often erroneous schoolyard. While my son may be naive with regards to many of the innuendos, laughing when Tyler speaks the words ‘come here baby’ on Crazy, I want him to know that through our shared love of music, he can come to me and discuss song meanings as he begins to understand more adult-based themes.

For the moment, however, he is content to play his air guitar when listening to Livin’ On The Edge and laughs contagiously when Eat The Rich concludes and the burp is heard at the very beginning of the following track. I’ve no doubt they programmed the CD to play the burp at the beginning of Get A Grip, rather than at the end of Eat The Rich, to ensure we would all keep hitting the back button. This morning I played it really LOUD on my main system. The house rumbled to, I assume, Steven Tyler’s guttural belch and while I haven’t taught my son to burp the alphabet, this was a priceless father-son moment. Thank you, Aerosmith!

Speaking of the CD, it is glorious to behold for the liner notes are extensive with associated artwork that is slightly more extended than the vinyl counterpart. Yes, the CD artwork, on the disc, is a little risqué but it’s not like Aerosmith has a clean-cut image to uphold. 

Sonically, the CD is flat and brittle, meaning that it is challenging to listen to for long periods as it simply lacks the kind of emotive energy that will captivate you. The clarity, however, is incredible, but I look for fullness of sound. I want to hear fat riffs and feel every drum beat and the CD just sounds a little too thin. Comparing it to the Apple Music Stream, an Apple Digital Master, it is smoother and more dynamic, yet I still wouldn’t say that this edition blows me away. Does it sound better than the CD to my ears, yes, but how does it compare to the 2017 vinyl re-issue that I’m fortunate to own? 

The vinyl reissue is superior in sonics to both the CD and streaming editions, as it has a greater sense of emotive energy that will get your body moving involuntarily. It also has a fuller sound, which is most likely due to the inherent distortion of the format, but it simply sounds right. The brittleness and absence of flatness are no longer present but the overall muffled sound of the recording can be easily heard across all versions. It is as if someone turned on Dolby NR (Noise Reduction) in the recording and mastering process. That’s not necessarily a negative aspect, but if you’re looking for a cleaner, or clearer, reproduction, I’m honestly not sure one exists for these three editions offer a good overview of the different tonalities available across each format. As to which you prefer, that will be to your own subjective preferences. I find that I can comfortably enjoy the Apple Music stream, but my preferred version is the vinyl release. The CD, I’m sure, would sound fantastic on a less revealing system but as it is, it is just a little too clinical for my music tastes. 

As for the vinyl packaging, it’s presented in a slipcover where both records’ inner sleeves are also the associated liner notes. It’s impressive to hold and is one of those albums that I find myself as captivated by the packaging as I do the music itself. Unlike some vinyl releases, the design here is fantastic as the text and overall layout is perfectly sized, meaning that you won’t just put the album aside, but enjoy it for what it is; a piece of art. 

The records are similarly magnificent. They’re flat and the noise floor is incredibly low. You’re really only going to hear the dead wax with headphones, or if you tend to turn the stereo up so loud that you annoy your neighbours. They are, for lack of a better term, flawless. Even the way the records have been cut impresses, for a song like Livin’ On The Edge should, as the final track on Side One, suffer from a little inner groove distortion, but it doesn’t as the record has been pressed well within the threshold, meaning that this killer song isn’t tarnished by the format’s limitations. Side 3, ending on Crazy, is similarly pressed and while it may be a little thing, these elements are important to music-lovers who choose vinyl as their format of choice. Nothing is more disappointing than putting on a record that sounds superior to other formats, only to be disappointed towards the end of each side when inner groove distortion can rare its ugly head. 

SIDE ONE

INTRO is self-explanatory, but I’ve heard worse album openings. That said, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to suggest that the Intro could have been merged into Eat The Rich. 

EAT THE RICH is witty with a great sense of rhythm that will likely see you singing along throughout the chorus. Plus, who doesn’t love that guttural burp at the end?

GET A GRIP is a killer rock tune, but I’d love to hear Tom Hamilton’s bass guitar be a little more prominent in the mix as it's the driving force behind the rhythm of the song. 

FEVER lacks cohesion for Get A Grip, yet it would have been perfect on Permanent Vacation. Despite that, it’s a solid tune. 

LIVIN’ ON THE EDGE is one of Aerosmith’s greatest and one of my favourites.

SIDE TWO

FLESH is utterly brilliant; that is until the chorus kicks in. Flesh is one of those songs where the verse structure is perfect but the chorus is a letdown. A shame, for I want to love Flesh, but find it is just too distracting. That said, the smoother nature of the vinyl edition means that it is a little less jarring on the senses and subsequently can be enjoyed when listening to the album via this format. 

WALK ON DOWN is classic Joe Perry as it reminds me of much of what I love about The Joe Perry Project. As an Aerosmith song, it works perfectly with the other songs on Get A Grip and is one tune that I feel should have got more attention than it did.

SHUT UP AND DANCE is lyrically brilliant as the double entendres will put a smile on your face. Musically, it features some of Brad Whitford and Joe Perry’s best guitar tracking on the album; fantastic!

SIDE THREE

CRYIN’ is one of Aerosmith’s best power ballads and one of the greatest blues-rock tunes they ever recorded. 

GOTTA LOVE IT says everything that needs to be said in the title. You gotta love it for it just works. While you’ll never find Gotta Love It on a career perspective release, or an Essentials Playlist, I’d add it to a playlist of the very best Aerosmith songs that you’ve never heard before. It has a little bit of everything and is what I’d consider to be quintessential Aerosmith.

CRAZY as a power ballad works extremely well. The chorus is catchy, you’ll likely sing along, and it is just corny enough to be considered a classic power ballad. 

SIDE FOUR

LINE UP has an addictive energy that will see you head-bopping and toe-tapping from the first note.

AMAZING is a ballad masterpiece. It’s amongst Aerosmith’s greatest recordings and helps to close out Get A Grip perfectly. 

BOOGIE MAN as the final track on Get A Grip is interesting, for it is arguably not needed, yet as I have heard this album countless times, over the years, I wouldn’t want Get A Grip to end without hearing Boogie Man; a great tune in its own right, even if its inclusion is questionable. 

Overall, Get A Grip is a fun album to listen to and has a groove that is reminiscent of the classic 70s Aerosmith style while also being uniquely modern to their 90s sound. It’s a rock masterpiece that has stood the test of time and is just as compelling today, as it was when released in 1993.

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Diana Krall – Wallflower: The Complete Sessions (Album Review On CD & Apple Music)

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Diana Krall – Wallflower: The Complete Sessions (Album Review On CD & Apple Music)

Diana Krall is synonymous with jazz, but on Wallflower she takes that elegantly smooth, but rustic, voice and applies it to some of the most iconic Classic Rock and Pop songs in music history. The renditions are absolutely beautiful and rival those of the original performers and in some cases surpass the originals; a bold statement, yes, but one worthy of such acclaim.

On this, Krall’s twelfth studio release, Krall teams up with Producer extraordinaire; David Foster. While Foster’s work is well-known, I dare say that there isn’t a better producer for this style of album as Foster’s usual style matches the aim Krall had in recording these series of songs. The result is an album that is spectacular from start to finish. 

Covers are an interesting musical endeavour for many are mediocre, some are just bad, while others such as those included here, for the most part, exceed all expectations. Thankfully, Krall manages to apply her unique style, while remaining true to the originals that are so loved, and appreciated, by millions of listeners throughout the world. It is always difficult to listen to songs that have been re-interpreted when you know the original so well, but this album is not one to fear.

For several years, I turned to streaming to listen to this collection of songs as I was torn regarding which edition I was interested in adding to my music library. On one hand, the Vinyl-based twelve-song collection, closing on Don’t Dream It’s Over is tight, but The Complete Sessions CD gives us more of the good stuff that makes Wallflower so compelling. Subsequently, if money was no object, I would own both, but I decided to go for the CD release as it contains everything from the Wallflower recording sessions along with two live performances. 

Of course, and it has to be said, Krall’s music is generally recorded, mixed, and mastered so well that the digital counterpart is full and enveloping with a natural warmth that doesn’t require an analogue medium to sound good. That said, while one would expect that the Apple Music stream, an Apple Digital Master, would sound inferior to the CD, I didn’t find that to be the case. The CD is most certainly more open, with a little more reach in the treble range, but the streaming counterpart is smoother and more developed in the low end of the musical spectrum. As to which you prefer, that is up to you, but regardless of how you choose to enjoy this album, you’re bound to be captivated by the sonic presentation.

While I’m pleased with my decision, and the CD is sonically beautiful with full liner notes, sans lyrics, I still desire the vinyl counterpart. One caveat regarding the CD liner notes, however, is that the text is so small it is barely legible. Of course, in my fourth decade upon this earth, my eyesight is starting to get a little less reliable than it used to be, but I’m sure those of you with perfect vision would have a similarly difficult time perusing the liner notes without shifting the booklet back and forth to find an ultimate focal point. If you take a look at the rear artwork, in the images above, you’ll have an idea of the problem and the liner notes text is even smaller. Nevertheless, it is all about the music, so let’s take a look at the songs, shall we? 

California Dreamin’ is a beautiful song and Krall interprets it stunningly well. 

Desperado showcases that where the Eagles’ original is a little rough around the edges, it need not be, for Krall smooths out the harshness and allows me to experience Desperado as I’ve always imagined it should be sung. That said, as I commented on Neil Diamond’s rendition, these interpretations are complementary to the original recording and perhaps it is just me, but I think that is the way that all covers should be approached.

Superstar is magnificent and while it is amongst my favourite songs that have ever been written and recorded, Krall takes it to another level entirely. 

Alone Again (Naturally) [Duet With Michael Bublé] is a great duet and a magnificent song.

Wallflower [Feat. Blake Mills] is incredible and is not only worthy of Krall’s interpretation but is the perfect title track. 

If I Take You Home Tonight was written, but never recorded, by Paul McCartney and is one of the greatest songs I’ve ever had the pleasure of hearing. Yes, McCartney is a songwriting prodigy, but with Krall’s vocal talent, this song becomes an absolute masterpiece. 

I Can’t Tell You Why is an Eagles’ classic, and interpreted magnificently well, but it is missing Timothy B. Schmit and subsequently isn’t as stunning as the original. 

Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word is an Elton John masterpiece and while Krall may not have the vocal attack that John does, she reinterprets this classic song so well that I honestly don’t know which version I prefer, for they are both exceptional. Again, as is the case throughout this album, Krall has handled the songs she’s chosen to cover with such delicacy and respect that little-to-no criticism is required.

Operator (That’s Not The Way It Feels) was an odd choice to follow Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word as I feel it is too much of a shift in tempo and style, thereby causing a jolt to the aforementioned relaxed musical experience. On its own, however, it isn’t a song that I’d search out and is at best, from my perspective, a B-side. 

I’m Not In Love is delightful. 

Feels Like Home [Duet With Bryan Adams] is a lovely song and the duet with Bryan Adams is the perfect vocal accompaniment to Krall’s as their styles and delivery are complementary to each other; so much so that I would love to hear them record an entire album together. 

Don’t Dream It’s Over closes the standard release perfectly, but Krall’s interpretation isn’t nearly as good as the Crowded House original. Don’t get me wrong, it’s lovely, but some songs should never be covered; this is one of them!

BONUS TRACKS

In My Life is a Beatles’ classic and while this interpretation is more vocal-focused, Krall performs it masterfully well. 

Yeh Yeh [Feat. Georgie Fame] picks up the pace and depending on how you like to listen to your music, it may be a shock to the system or a perfect switch. Either way, one has to wonder just how much thought is put into the tracking of bonus tracks. Yeh Yeh also lacks the spit and polish that I normally associate with Krall’s music. Look, it’s a fun little tune but you’re unlikely to seek it out or feel compelled to play it on repeat. 

Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word [Live] is a gorgeous live recording. It is recordings like this that encourage me to experience live performances again; if only they would all be of similar quality. Yes, dear reader, I acknowledge that many of the live recordings are modified in the studio before release, to fix any shortcomings, but whether that is the case in the live recordings heard here, I don’t know. Nevertheless, this is one magical performance. 

Wallflower [Live] is a lovely recording, but it is too similar to the studio recording; an interpretation that I prefer over this live performance. 

A Case Of You is uneventful with regard to impressing this music-lover. Yes, the song is lovely, as is Krall’s interpretation, but it isn’t memorable. 

If You Could Read My Mind [Duet With Sarah McLachlan] is a gorgeous song and duet. McLachlan has a gorgeous vocal tone that complements Krall’s perfectly. This most certainly should have been on the original core album, perhaps replacing Operator (That’s Not The Way It Feels). 

Everybody’s Talkin’ [Duet With Vince Gill] isn’t a bad song, but I’m not sure that I enjoy Krall’s version as the maracas and distortion is a little distracting. Plus, I think Vince Gill was the wrong choice here as everything just sounds off. If this were a demo, I could understand it, but as a finished piece of audible art, I don’t feel it works too well. 

Heart Of Gold is a Neil Young masterpiece and in a similar vein to Don’t Dream It’s Over, it should never be covered for Young broke the mould when he recorded this song. That said, this rendition is lovely and is worthy of inclusion here, closing out The Complete Sessions nicely, thereby encouraging me to play the album again. 

Overall, Krall has delivered an album that not only brings her musical direction to a mainstream audience but showcases how very talented she is as a musician. While some of the bonus tracks failed to live up to the core ethos of the album, none are outright bad and therefore Wallflower: The Complete Sessions makes for a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience. 

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Muse – Absolution (Album Review)

Muse – Absolution (Album Review)

I often find myself amused as to just how much I adore the music of Muse, yet how infrequently I reach for their music. Absolution, Muse’s third studio album is, without doubt, one of my favourite alternative albums yet in a dichotomy that I can’t explain, I have yet to pick up this release on Vinyl or CD, instead choosing to appreciate it via Apple Music; an Apple Digital Master. While the collector in me questions my sanity, for this is one album most certainly worthy of adding to my physical collection, from a sonic perspective I’m never left with the feeling of wanting more after listening to the album on Apple Music. 

What is missing, however, is the extensive liner notes. Still, as fond as I am of the physical counterpart, that tactile element pales should the mastering, on a particular medium, cause the music to sound lacklustre to my ears. Hence, I find that where streaming is concerned, as long as I thoroughly enjoy the sonic presentation, then I can generally be content by not owning everything.

Of course, some may question if Muse’s Absolution does really sound that good; after all, their music could be classed as being overly compressed or brickwalled, yet what I would normally associate with these aspects I don’t find with the stream of Absolution. Yes, I note a level of distortion and it is a loud recording, but I feel that enhances the music somewhat. I find it neither distracting nor harsh and as it pertains to the edition found on Apple Music, the soundstage is well-developed, with adequate instrumental and atmospheric separation.

Intro is simply that, an introduction that leads perfectly into Apocalypse Please. In all honesty, at only 24 seconds in duration, one has to question if it wouldn’t have been better to simply tack it on to the beginning of Apocalypse Please. 

Apocalypse Please makes for a solid opening song with a musicality that demands one’s attention. 

Time Is Running Out has a killer intro with a rhythm that is addictive and will get you moving; I love it!

Sing For Absolution is a beautiful vocal-focused song. The soundstage is well-developed and while it is a little shallower than I’d like from a track like this, every element in the mix is clear thereby allowing you to be captivated by the music itself. 

Stockholm Syndrome is a hard-hitting riff-focused song that will give your stereo a workout. Yes, this is one track that is right on the border of acceptable as it pertains to loudness, but it works surprisingly well for the song and the usual brickwalled elements are not present meaning that Stockholm Syndrome can still be thoroughly enjoyed. 

Falling Away With You slows things down a little and arguably returns to a little more dynamic range; a range that is perfectly suited to this style of song. That said, depending on your setup, you may wish to reduce the bass levels as I found they were too prominent on my setup when playing Falling Away With You. Overall, a great song!

Interlude is seamless in its connective purpose.

Hysteria is a killer alternative rock tune. 

Blackout is magical; Matt Bellamy’s vocal tracking here is exquisite. 

Butterflies And Hurricanes is a great song but I do wish the soundstage had a little more depth as Butterflies And Hurricanes sounds quite congested and it would be lovely to hear every element even clearer than it currently is. 

The Small Print starts out well, but the sibilance in Bellamy’s vocal is a distracting element here. Nevertheless, the song works well within the context of the album. 

Endlessly is a great tune that I keep coming back to time and time again. Endlessly, literally, can be played endlessly on repeat as far as I’m concerned; I like it that much!

Thoughts Of A Dying Atheist is a fantastically witty song.

Ruled By Secrecy is an incredibly delicate tune that slowly builds as the song progresses. It’s magnificent! 

Fury (Bonus Track) is utterly brilliant and is worthy of inclusion on Absolution, but I’d argue that Ruled By Secrecy was the perfect closing track that allowed one to sit and reflect on the song and the album itself before spinning it again.

From start to finish, Absolution is a sonic experience that has to be heard. There isn’t a B-side to be found and while not all songs stand out, collectively as a piece of musical art, it is a remarkable achievement that borders on being nothing short of a masterpiece. 

Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – If I Can Dream (Album Review On CD & Apple Music)

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Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – If I Can Dream (Album Review On CD & Apple Music)

It never ceases to amaze me just how many different ways the music industry can repackage the music we know and love. While I was underwhelmed by the Carpenters With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra release, I was blown away by the Elvis Presley album, If I Can Dream. 

The song selection is superb, but I do question if Burning Love was the best song to get the Philharmonic treatment and open the album with. Of course, that is only one song, and the rest of the album is beyond reproach with a very tasteful orchestral inclusion to a modest selection of Presley’s timeless classics. 

Of course, this 2015 compilation wouldn’t be the only release to merge classical influences with the rock and roll legend, but to be completely honest, the 2016 followup, The Wonder Of You, isn’t as spectacular as this initial release and feels as if it was only released to capitalise on the success of If You Can Dream. Of course, the Helene Fischer duet on The Wonder Of You is, to say the least, compelling as she has a divine voice. Never say never, dear reader, for one day you may just see a review of The Wonder Of You pop up on Subjective Sounds; just don’t hold your breath for a review of Christmas With Elvis And The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

The release of If I Can Dream that I’m fortunate to own is the standard 14-track CD release. Sonically, it’s beautiful and that is of course, in part, due to the masterful arrangements and mixing that ensures Elvis has never sounded better. The mastering is beyond reproach and showcases just how good Compact Discs can sound, thanks in part to Vic Anesini at Battery Studios in New York. Of course, as with all standard releases, there is also a Deluxe Edition that I’ve lusted over for some time, but I have to remind myself that I am thoroughly happy with the track selection that is featured on the standard CD release and while I may be missing out on Anything That’s Part Of You, What Now My Love, and Heartbreak Hotel, I much prefer the artwork on the standard release as it is less pompous than the Deluxe Edition. Although, and this may be confusing, the Apple Music edition uses the alternative artwork even though the additional tracks are not present. Speaking of the Apple Music edition, it too is stunning and is delivered as an Apple Digital Master thereby ensuring that no matter how you choose to enjoy this album, you’ll have the best experience possible. 

The obvious advantage, however, over the streaming counterpart is the extensive liner notes that not only pay homage to the era but give fans an insight, via Priscilla Presley, into Elvis’ mindset following his recording sessions whereby he longed for a fuller sound, one that can really only be achieved with the assistance of an orchestra. I can’t argue with that opinion, for I too would appreciate a fuller sound when listening to some of the legacy Elvis recordings. Thankfully, the songs on If I Can Dream give music-lovers an insight into what could have been and I’ve no doubt that if you take the time to listen that you’ll hear these classics as you’ve never heard them before; falling in love with them all over again.

Just a final comment on the liner notes, I can’t begin to express just how appreciative I am to the team behind this release. They have gone above and beyond, nothing has been missed, and it is a pleasure to sit, flick between the pages, and enjoy as I sit back and listen to this masterpiece. I’d like to say this is common, but I have so many CD releases that seem as though they’ve just been thrown together on a whim, with no real thought or care put in place, especially in the modern era where streaming is now dominant. Subsequently, it is refreshing to see that some still go that extra step to ensure fans are rewarded with albums that can really be wonderful experiences that extend beyond the sonic pleasures of the release. 

Burning Love is a great song, but I’m a little conflicted about the decision to use it as the opener as the other songs included on this compilation release are a little less rock and roll. That isn’t to say that Burning Love doesn’t work with an orchestra approach, or that I dislike the song, nothing could be further from the truth. It simply means that out of all the songs selected, I feel this is the least appealing, but I can understand why it was chosen. Regardless of my subjective thoughts, fans will likely be in awe and will thoroughly enjoy this rendition. 

It’s Now Or Never is a lovely song and sets the tone and overall tempo for the rest of the album. 

Love Me Tender is one of the most beautiful songs ever written and recorded and while the original is beyond reproach, this melding of styles takes the song to a completely new level. One that will allow you to experience it as if it were the first time all over again. Songs like this are the very reason why I love music as much as I do. 

Fever (feat. Michael Bublé) is a great song and while I was initially skeptical of Bublé’s inclusion, it works incredibly well. However, if there is one element that doesn’t sit well with me, it is the vocal tracking. There is a difference between the Presley and Bublé vocal tracks, resulting in a little echo, most likely due to the tracks being recorded in two different studios, at two different time periods. You don’t notice it when listening to the songs with Presley on his own, but it is a minor irritation in this song. Not that it deters me from enjoying it, for I love it, but this slight variation is especially apparent when listening via headphones, so music lovers who are sensitive to such small deviations may be best advised to listen to the album via speakers. 

Bridge Over Troubled Water is an absolute classic and while I love the Simon & Garfunkel original, Presley’s rendition has always been incredible, one of the very best ever recorded, and this orchestral rendition takes the song to another level of listening pleasure. Truth-be-told, I’ve never heard a bad interpretation of this masterpiece, but I do have a soft spot for this version and I suggest you turn the volume up, sit back with a glass of wine, and enjoy. It’s absolutely spectacular!

And The Grass Won’t Pay No Mind is a song where you can really hear Neil Diamond. Arguably, I feel the Neil Diamond original is the better version and as I think about it, I can’t help but wonder just how incredible Diamond’s entire catalogue would be with an orchestral mix. Nevertheless, this is a lovely rendition and a perfect addition to the album. 

You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling is another absolute classic and while I enjoy Presley’s interpretation, I feel the mix with the original recording and the orchestral backing is a little rough in places, especially in the backing vocal elements that I feel detract from the orchestral element as they are simply too prominent in the mix.

There’s Always Me is one of the songs on the album that I’m not overly familiar with. Yes, I adore Presley’s entire catalogue, but even the most devout fan will likely be unfamiliar with a few songs here and there. Nevertheless, There’s Always Me is a lovely addition to the album and doesn’t feel out-of-place.

Can’t Help Falling In Love is another Presley classic that requires no introduction or commentary. The original is a masterpiece and this orchestral version has merely enhanced the song. Stunning!

In The Ghetto is one of my all-time favourite Elvis songs. Without a doubt, the production team behind this release really chose well, considering just how many exceptional songs Presley recorded in his life. I can only imagine the discussions surrounding the selection process. It certainly wouldn’t have been easy and perhaps that is why additional releases have been forthcoming because the mixture of Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is arguably a match made in heaven.

How Great Thou Art is a lovely hymn and on first listen doesn’t seem like a good song to select for this compilation, but I’m happy to say that I stand corrected for I couldn’t imagine this release without this song. 

Steamroller Blues is moody, brooding, and absolutely perfect. 

An American Trilogy is a lovely song that is enhanced beautifully with orchestral overtures. 

If I Can Dream is the perfect song to close the album on as it bookends this collection of songs nicely, ensuring that I will listen to the album again and stay within Elvis’ extensive catalogue of music. 

Overall, If I Can Dream is, truly, a dream come true for any Elvis fan. Elvis is in the room with you, as is the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and arguably has never sounded better. I don’t know about you, dear reader, but I couldn’t imagine a better homage to such a sensational talent. We are truly fortunate to have Elvis’ music, but we are even more fortunate to have such a respectful modernisation of some of his greatest hits. 

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Alice Cooper – Muscle Of Love (Album Review On Vinyl & Apple Music)

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Alice Cooper – Muscle Of Love (Album Review On Vinyl & Apple Music)

Despite being an album focused on juvenile sexual innuendos, Muscle Of Love is one of the greatest Alice Cooper band albums ever recorded and in a way, it’s a shame that it was the last to include the original band lineup. While Bob Ezrin was noticeably absent in the Producer's chair, Jack Douglas and Jack Richardson did a wonderful job of guiding the album, while allowing creative artistry to flourish.

Yes, many of the songs on Muscle Of Love have never been part of Cooper's live set, at least for many years, but I've often found that with Alice Cooper, the best albums, songs, and performances are not necessarily the compilation filling or concert played fan favourites. Therefore, I implore you to give Muscle Of Love, as an album, a shot. I have a feeling you won't regret it.

I know I haven't regretted picking up the Friday Music vinyl re-issue from 2013. While the reissue isn't a perfect replica, sonically it is beautiful with a full analogue sound that will impress even the most hardened critic. It is said to have been mastered from the original Warner Bros. tapes by Joe Reagoso and after listening to it countless times, I have no reason to doubt Friday Music's claims. It really is that good!

The Apple Music stream is, similarly, beautiful with a mastering that is similar to the vinyl record. If there is a difference to report, it would be that the Apple Music stream sounds a little concealed by direct comparison to the vinyl release. That said, regardless of how you choose to enjoy this classic, you’re most likely going to love it. 

SIDE I

Big Apple Dreamin' (Hippo) not only has a great groove, but that psychedelic undertone is superb. I dare you to sit still, without moving a muscle, during this song, I can't do it. The guitar tracking is divine and the inclusion of the violins perfectly suits the song. Plus, that outro = extraordinary!

Never Been Sold Before is your meat and potatoes rock and roll track. I love it! Just as the addition of strings to Big Apple Dreamin' (Hippo) enhanced that song, the horn element in Never Been Sold Before is fantastic and has a similar effect. If I had one complaint, it would be that I'd like to hear a 1 to 2 decibel increase in the bass guitar.

Hard Hearted Alice is a song that slowly builds with a beautiful atmospheric introduction. This is one song where the quadraphonic mix would likely be astonishing, but the vinyl and Apple Music counterparts are no slouch with a soundstage that removes the speakers, creating a spacious sound that has to be heard to be believed.

Crazy Little Child is a fun song. I adore the piano element and I love the overall New Orleans Jazz feel. I'd love to see Cooper do an entire jazz album, even one full of standards would do. He certainly has the vocal chops for it.

SIDE II

Working Up A Sweat continues the lighthearted approach to the overall theme of the album. It's a solid song, but not one to write home about as I find Cooper’s vocals are distant in the mix, although, the music has an addictive and thoroughly enjoyable rhythm.

Muscle Of Love is a killer tune. Both the guitar intro and drum tempo are superb and I find myself playing the air guitar and drums when listening to this song. Exceptional!

Man With The Golden Gun was originally written and recorded for the associated James Bond film but was sadly never used. When you listen to the song, armed with that knowledge, you can immediately hear the James Bond undertones and one can only wonder how the Man With The Golden Gun’s introduction would have differed with this song. Nevertheless, it’s a solid addition to Muscle Of Love and I'm glad it was released and not shelved as it is quite enjoyable, even if it’s not the strongest song on the album.

Teenage Lament '74 has remained somewhat of a fan favourite and while I thoroughly enjoy the song, I feel bemused as to its popularity. I guess it just proves that I should never be asked by an artist, or record label, which songs should be released as a single or be played live.

Woman Machine is an interesting song to close the album on. Yes, it encourages me to listen to the album again and stay within Alice Cooper's extensive catalogue, but I find Woman Machine to be a little repetitive and the outro is a little too much, in my opinion, although I can see the approach the band were going for.

Overall, Muscle Of Love is exceptional and is truly one of the best Alice Cooper band albums ever recorded. 

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