Last month, while surfing YouTube, I discovered The Call’s The Lost Tapes. Apparently, it was released on March 18, 2024—how did I miss this?! That very night, I dove into the first four tracks, and just today, I've completed the album in its entirety. Remarkably, when I revisited those initial four tracks, they sounded even better. This is one of those rare albums that will never get old—it will continue always astound me.
The title The Lost Tapes hints at the treasures within: a collection of long-hidden gems. These songs were pulled from the vault, each track emerging from the depths of the band's storied history. Listening to "A Beautiful Lie," I couldn't help but think, “This must be from the early '90s!” Curiosity got the best of me, and some digging revealed I was spot on. It carries that same atmospheric essence you find in their 1990 album, Red Moon.
"A Beautiful Lie" features contributions from Garth Hudson of The Band, along with Danny Timms and the late Tommy Spurlock. It was recorded between 1991 and 1993, following the release of their 1990 album "Red Moon." In 2023, surviving members Tom Ferrier, Jim Goodwin, Scott Musick, and producer Ralph Patlan revisited these recordings, adding missing parts and completing the tracks to create the album as it stands today.
My favorite tracks: "Welcome to My World," "Only Love," "Beaten at Your Own Game," "Right Between the Eyes," "Amazed By You," "A Beautiful Lie," "Time In a Beer Bottle," "What a Ride."
“Welcome to My World” serves as a fantastic introduction, propelling us into an even greater experience. The guitar riffs in “Only Love” and “Right Between the Eyes” are simply stellar. “Amazed By You” captures that nostalgic Call energy—I really love that one. It’s a touch bittersweet to think these tunes remained unreleased all this time; imagine the joy we could have been experiencing decades ago.
I’ve been a loyal fan of this band for nearly 30 years, and it’s astonishing to realize that my affection for their music is as strong as ever.
Check out The Call’s The Lost Tapes—and if you like what you hear, go buy the album to support the band. They've earned it!
Friday, April 4, 2025
Sunday, March 9, 2025
When Music Speaks: The Power of Sound and Emotion
This post feels like a continuation of last month's Roger Whittaker blog, in which I talked about how certain sounds evoke emotion. Classical music, especially pieces with a strong piano presence, evokes deep emotions. In particular, the piano can express such a wide range of emotions - it can be tender and delicate, or intense and dramatic. Almost like a voice of its own, it resonates and sustains notes, telling a story without words.
Classical composers like Chopin, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff were masters at using the piano to stir emotions. Chopin’s Nocturnes, Debussy’s "Clair de Lune," and Rachmaninoff’s "Elegy in E-flat Minor"—all of these pieces have that same power to transport you somewhere deeply personal. Since there are no lyrics to "tell you what to feel," your mind fills in the gaps. The emotion in classical music is open to interpretation, which makes it more personal—you might hear sadness, while someone else hears beauty or nostalgia. The way the music moves—through swelling crescendos, delicate pauses, or hauntingly repeated motifs—triggers emotions without forcing a single meaning on the listener.
One of my favorite songs since childhood is Don Henley’s "The End of the Innocence." Hearing it takes me back to simpler times, reminding me of places I visited, loved ones who are gone, and connections that have faded. Time makes me reflective, and this song amplifies that feeling. The blend of Henley’s soft vocals, poignant lyrics, and Bruce Hornsby’s elegant piano resonates deeply with me. It’s more than just a song; it’s an emotional experience.
It's a bridge to the past for me—one that instantly brings back memories of places, people, and moments that are now distant. That bittersweet mix of nostalgia and longing can be overwhelming, especially when paired with a song as beautifully melancholic as this one. The piano, in particular, has such a wistful, reflective quality, almost like it’s echoing time slipping away.
I think certain songs just hold time for us, and when we hear them, it’s like stepping into a memory. The way Don Henley delivers the lyrics, almost like a soft lament, makes the passing of time feel even more profound. It’s that rare kind of song that doesn’t just make you remember—it makes you feel the passage of time, the beauty of the past, and the weight of what’s been lost.
Music acts as a time machine, reviving the past and allowing us to revisit moments we thought were lost. "The End of the Innocence" is more than just a song; it's a portal to the people, places, and emotions that shaped those times. It uniquely preserves those memories. Sometimes I can't listen to it, but at other times I do to reflect. It's comforting to know those memories live in the music, lyrics, and emotions that resurface when I hear that song.
Classical composers like Chopin, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff were masters at using the piano to stir emotions. Chopin’s Nocturnes, Debussy’s "Clair de Lune," and Rachmaninoff’s "Elegy in E-flat Minor"—all of these pieces have that same power to transport you somewhere deeply personal. Since there are no lyrics to "tell you what to feel," your mind fills in the gaps. The emotion in classical music is open to interpretation, which makes it more personal—you might hear sadness, while someone else hears beauty or nostalgia. The way the music moves—through swelling crescendos, delicate pauses, or hauntingly repeated motifs—triggers emotions without forcing a single meaning on the listener.
One of my favorite songs since childhood is Don Henley’s "The End of the Innocence." Hearing it takes me back to simpler times, reminding me of places I visited, loved ones who are gone, and connections that have faded. Time makes me reflective, and this song amplifies that feeling. The blend of Henley’s soft vocals, poignant lyrics, and Bruce Hornsby’s elegant piano resonates deeply with me. It’s more than just a song; it’s an emotional experience.
It's a bridge to the past for me—one that instantly brings back memories of places, people, and moments that are now distant. That bittersweet mix of nostalgia and longing can be overwhelming, especially when paired with a song as beautifully melancholic as this one. The piano, in particular, has such a wistful, reflective quality, almost like it’s echoing time slipping away.
I think certain songs just hold time for us, and when we hear them, it’s like stepping into a memory. The way Don Henley delivers the lyrics, almost like a soft lament, makes the passing of time feel even more profound. It’s that rare kind of song that doesn’t just make you remember—it makes you feel the passage of time, the beauty of the past, and the weight of what’s been lost.
Music acts as a time machine, reviving the past and allowing us to revisit moments we thought were lost. "The End of the Innocence" is more than just a song; it's a portal to the people, places, and emotions that shaped those times. It uniquely preserves those memories. Sometimes I can't listen to it, but at other times I do to reflect. It's comforting to know those memories live in the music, lyrics, and emotions that resurface when I hear that song.
Sunday, February 23, 2025
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
INXS announces ‘Listen Like Thieves 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition’ LP and 3-CD set
INXS will release Listen Like Thieves (40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition) on May 9th via Rhino Records. The set will be available as a Deluxe Edition 3 CD/LP set containing a brand new 2025 remix by Giles Martin and Paul Hicks on CD and vinyl, extensive previously unreleased outtakes and demos, a rare BBC Recording, Live From The Royal Albert Hall, London, 1986 and a new interview with the band by acclaimed writer Paul Sexton. The Extended Edition 2 CD contains the new mix, whilst the the second disc has a selection of B-sides, remixes and live recordings. The single LP 40th Anniversary Edition vinyl contains the new 2025 mix.
This release really excites me. Demos & outtakes, the second disc, includes recordings I'm unfamiliar with, despite my extensive collection of INXS demos. Despite hearing the 1986 Royal Albert Hall show years ago, I haven't experienced the 2025 mix yet, which I am eager to hear. This remains a delightful addition, even though I already own the Listen Like Thieves LP. On my Atlantic 1985 pressing, the album title is much larger than on the 40th anniversary deluxe edition, which also features different artwork. I want this!
Source: https://ultimateclassicrock.com/inxs-listen-like-thieves-expanded/
This release really excites me. Demos & outtakes, the second disc, includes recordings I'm unfamiliar with, despite my extensive collection of INXS demos. Despite hearing the 1986 Royal Albert Hall show years ago, I haven't experienced the 2025 mix yet, which I am eager to hear. This remains a delightful addition, even though I already own the Listen Like Thieves LP. On my Atlantic 1985 pressing, the album title is much larger than on the 40th anniversary deluxe edition, which also features different artwork. I want this!
Source: https://ultimateclassicrock.com/inxs-listen-like-thieves-expanded/
Saturday, February 8, 2025
Whistling Through the Years: The Story of Roger Whittaker
Roger Whittaker, a Kenyan-born British singer-songwriter and musician, crafted an exquisite sound that beautifully merges folk and popular music. Renowned for his rich baritone voice, he gained fame not only for his captivating crooning and schlager-style melodies, but also for his remarkable whistling talent and impressive guitar skills.
Raised amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kenya, he was surrounded by a diverse array of musical inspirations, blending African rhythms with traditional folk sounds. Upon completing his education, he served with honor in the Kenya Regiment before crossing the seas to pursue medical studies in the UK. However, the allure of sharing knowledge led him to follow his true passion, ultimately committing himself to music as his full-time career.
In 1975, EMI released "The Last Farewell," a track from Whittaker's 1971 New World in the Morning album. It became his biggest hit and a signature song, selling more than 11 million copies worldwide. Whittaker was widely known for his own compositions, including "Durham Town (The Leavin')" "I Don't Believe in If Anymore," and "New World in the Morning."
Throughout his illustrious career, Whittaker amassed more than 250 awards, including silver, gold, and platinum accolades. His memorable song "Mexican Whistler" contributed to a remarkable achievement as part of a British team that triumphed at the 1967 Knokke Music Festival in Belgium, where he was honored with the Press Prize as the festival's standout personality. In 1988, he received the coveted 'Gold Badge Award' from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors, and in 1986, he earned the esteemed Goldene Stimmgabel in Germany, a recognition determined by record sales and votes from television viewers.
Roger Whittaker on The Val Doonican Music Show in 1984:
Roger Whittaker interview with Terry Marshall:
Live version of "Mexican Whistler":
"Australian Whistler (Swaggy)," taken from Whittaker's Whistling 'round the World album:
I'm truly astonished by his ability to whistle an entire song for such a duration, hitting all those varied notes effortlessly. On top of that, he's playing the guitar simultaneously. While exploring his videos, I stumbled upon something truly fascinating, an album devoted entirely to whistling songs. Titled Whistling 'round the World and released in 1971, it showcases his incredible creativity and experimentation, weaving the art of whistling into diverse musical cultures. I absolutely love how innovative this endeavor was!
I can't whistle, so I admire anyone who can, especially Roger's talent, lol. It's extraordinary. I'm always amazed to hear something like that. This is also one of the reasons I have such a passion for music; there's always something fascinating about how sound is crafted and produced. It makes you think about all the elements that come together to create "that sound," don't you think?
What exactly is it about certain sounds that evoke emotion? How do rhythm, harmony, and even silence contribute to the overall experience? Roger’s music, for example, has a signature warmth—his deep baritone, gentle guitar playing, and, of course, that signature whistle all combine to form something instantly recognizable.
When you step back and analyze it, music is more than just notes and lyrics; it’s a carefully crafted experience, built from layers of sound that connect with people in deeply personal ways. That’s what makes it so powerful. And in Roger Whittaker’s case, his ability to use something as simple as whistling to create beauty is a testament to just how much artistry goes into making music truly special.
I hope future generations discover Roger Whittaker and other notable artists, appreciating their timeless art. Their music holds a unique power to transcend generations, bridging the past with the present and inspiring new listeners to find beauty in what has already been created.
Raised amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kenya, he was surrounded by a diverse array of musical inspirations, blending African rhythms with traditional folk sounds. Upon completing his education, he served with honor in the Kenya Regiment before crossing the seas to pursue medical studies in the UK. However, the allure of sharing knowledge led him to follow his true passion, ultimately committing himself to music as his full-time career.
In 1975, EMI released "The Last Farewell," a track from Whittaker's 1971 New World in the Morning album. It became his biggest hit and a signature song, selling more than 11 million copies worldwide. Whittaker was widely known for his own compositions, including "Durham Town (The Leavin')" "I Don't Believe in If Anymore," and "New World in the Morning."
Throughout his illustrious career, Whittaker amassed more than 250 awards, including silver, gold, and platinum accolades. His memorable song "Mexican Whistler" contributed to a remarkable achievement as part of a British team that triumphed at the 1967 Knokke Music Festival in Belgium, where he was honored with the Press Prize as the festival's standout personality. In 1988, he received the coveted 'Gold Badge Award' from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors, and in 1986, he earned the esteemed Goldene Stimmgabel in Germany, a recognition determined by record sales and votes from television viewers.
Roger Whittaker on The Val Doonican Music Show in 1984:
Roger Whittaker interview with Terry Marshall:
Live version of "Mexican Whistler":
"Australian Whistler (Swaggy)," taken from Whittaker's Whistling 'round the World album:
I'm truly astonished by his ability to whistle an entire song for such a duration, hitting all those varied notes effortlessly. On top of that, he's playing the guitar simultaneously. While exploring his videos, I stumbled upon something truly fascinating, an album devoted entirely to whistling songs. Titled Whistling 'round the World and released in 1971, it showcases his incredible creativity and experimentation, weaving the art of whistling into diverse musical cultures. I absolutely love how innovative this endeavor was!
I can't whistle, so I admire anyone who can, especially Roger's talent, lol. It's extraordinary. I'm always amazed to hear something like that. This is also one of the reasons I have such a passion for music; there's always something fascinating about how sound is crafted and produced. It makes you think about all the elements that come together to create "that sound," don't you think?
What exactly is it about certain sounds that evoke emotion? How do rhythm, harmony, and even silence contribute to the overall experience? Roger’s music, for example, has a signature warmth—his deep baritone, gentle guitar playing, and, of course, that signature whistle all combine to form something instantly recognizable.
When you step back and analyze it, music is more than just notes and lyrics; it’s a carefully crafted experience, built from layers of sound that connect with people in deeply personal ways. That’s what makes it so powerful. And in Roger Whittaker’s case, his ability to use something as simple as whistling to create beauty is a testament to just how much artistry goes into making music truly special.
I hope future generations discover Roger Whittaker and other notable artists, appreciating their timeless art. Their music holds a unique power to transcend generations, bridging the past with the present and inspiring new listeners to find beauty in what has already been created.
Monday, January 27, 2025
The origin of "Third Rate Romance" and The Amazing Rhythm Aces
If you listened to country music in the '90s, you probably heard Sammy Kershaw's hilarious and memorable hit, "Third Rate Romance." The song, paired with its equally entertaining music video, delivers a perfect mix of humor and storytelling. Upon looking it up on YouTube, I noticed a Canadian band had also recorded it, along with a Louisiana native named Jesse Winchester.
The song was written by Russell Smith, and first recorded by Jesse Winchester and the Rhythm Aces in Montreal in 1974. It became a hit for the newly reformed Amazing Rhythm Aces with Russell Smith on vocals the following year. It appeared on the 1975 album Stacked Deck. The band's debut single reached No.11 on the U.S. country singles chart, No.14 on the Billboard Hot 100, and No.1 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks and Top Singles charts.
Sammy Kershaw covered the song on his 1994 album Feelin' Good Train, from which it was released as a single in 1994. It peaked at No.2 in the United States country charts, and at No.10 in Canada. Russell Smith provided backing vocals on Kershaw's version.
Original version by Jesse Winchester:
Amazing Rhythm Aces version:
Amazing Rhythm Aces' debut album, Stacked Deck, was released in 1975. The album reached #11 on the US country chart and #120 on the Billboard albums chart. In Canada, it topped both the country and pop charts with "Third Rate Romance", the group's biggest hit single. The Amazing Rhythm Aces released six studio albums. The band released How the Hell Do You Spell Rythum? in 1980 before they disbanded.
In 1976, "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)", from the album Too Stuffed to Jump, won a Grammy for Country Vocal Performance by a Group. In 2013, Dave Dimartino, of Rolling Stone, called the album "near classic" and said that it sounded "more contemporary than anyone might expect."
Songs I really like: "Third Rate Romance," Life's Railway to Heaven," Anything You Want," "Hit the Nail on the Head," "Who Will the Next Fool Be?" "Emma-Jean," "Mystery Train," "Typical American Boy," "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)," "Out of the Snow," "Fool for the Woman." ♪♫
What I really appreciate about this group is how their music blends a bluesy, soulful vibe with a touch of country flair. Check out this live footage from Austin City Limits; they truly shine in a live setting. Austin City Limits is also a great place to see a live show!
You can make the videos larger, or click them to go directly to their YouTube videos.
Austin City Limits urls: https://austincitylimits.com/ -- https://www.aclfestival.com/
The song was written by Russell Smith, and first recorded by Jesse Winchester and the Rhythm Aces in Montreal in 1974. It became a hit for the newly reformed Amazing Rhythm Aces with Russell Smith on vocals the following year. It appeared on the 1975 album Stacked Deck. The band's debut single reached No.11 on the U.S. country singles chart, No.14 on the Billboard Hot 100, and No.1 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks and Top Singles charts.
Sammy Kershaw covered the song on his 1994 album Feelin' Good Train, from which it was released as a single in 1994. It peaked at No.2 in the United States country charts, and at No.10 in Canada. Russell Smith provided backing vocals on Kershaw's version.
Original version by Jesse Winchester:
Amazing Rhythm Aces version:
Amazing Rhythm Aces' debut album, Stacked Deck, was released in 1975. The album reached #11 on the US country chart and #120 on the Billboard albums chart. In Canada, it topped both the country and pop charts with "Third Rate Romance", the group's biggest hit single. The Amazing Rhythm Aces released six studio albums. The band released How the Hell Do You Spell Rythum? in 1980 before they disbanded.
In 1976, "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)", from the album Too Stuffed to Jump, won a Grammy for Country Vocal Performance by a Group. In 2013, Dave Dimartino, of Rolling Stone, called the album "near classic" and said that it sounded "more contemporary than anyone might expect."
Songs I really like: "Third Rate Romance," Life's Railway to Heaven," Anything You Want," "Hit the Nail on the Head," "Who Will the Next Fool Be?" "Emma-Jean," "Mystery Train," "Typical American Boy," "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)," "Out of the Snow," "Fool for the Woman." ♪♫
What I really appreciate about this group is how their music blends a bluesy, soulful vibe with a touch of country flair. Check out this live footage from Austin City Limits; they truly shine in a live setting. Austin City Limits is also a great place to see a live show!
You can make the videos larger, or click them to go directly to their YouTube videos.
Austin City Limits urls: https://austincitylimits.com/ -- https://www.aclfestival.com/
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out ♪♫
I can’t help but feel sentimental this time of year as I think back to happier days. Years ago, I hadn’t lost touch with anyone, and some people I cared about were still here. Just before Thanksgiving, I learned that a very dear friend of mine had passed away in the spring of 2022. How could I not have known? Life's busy stages must have caught up with me, and as time slipped away, we stopped communicating. Several other friends have passed in the last four years, adding to the heartache of losing my grandmother in May of 2023.
I also think about all my accomplishments and how much more I still want to achieve. Will I get there? I ask myself. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are not just times for reflection, but also opportunities to move forward, striving toward my current goals. I’m not big on New Year’s resolutions—I find them hard to stick to—but I do focus on the future and how to navigate the path ahead.
New Year’s Eve and Day may not feel the same as they once did, but they remain meaningful. You cope as you go along, creating new memories while holding onto the lessons of the past. It’s essential to live in the moment and appreciate what you have now because it may not always be there.
Sometimes I feel like "Pourin' It All Out," and I did with this post! I thought Graham Parker's "Pourin' It All Out" was appropriate here.
"Then I found myself in a new year celebration, crying alone in a crowd,
Yeah, that really was some new year celebration, all bravado was strong and loud,
I don't mind telling you what I'm going through,
I don't mind telling you baby cause every word it true,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Tonight, all night, all right..." ♪♫
What great lyrics! I kicked off my New Year’s Eve with “Pourin’ It All Out,” and the night only got better from there. I ended up listening to Graham Parker’s Best Of... album, soaking in the music and having the best time. To top it all off, bursts of red, green, and gold fireworks lit up the night sky, making the evening truly unforgettable.
I also learned that in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the town raises a giant Hershey Kiss at the stroke of midnight! I already knew about the history of Hershey Park, that it was founded in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey of the Hershey Chocolate Company. But, I had no idea the town did something so special for New Year’s. I’d love to see that in person; it’s just too cool! 🎆
Happy New Year! Wishing everyone good health, prosperity, and luck in the new year. Let's make this a good one. #2025 🎉 🎊 🥂 🍾
I also think about all my accomplishments and how much more I still want to achieve. Will I get there? I ask myself. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are not just times for reflection, but also opportunities to move forward, striving toward my current goals. I’m not big on New Year’s resolutions—I find them hard to stick to—but I do focus on the future and how to navigate the path ahead.
New Year’s Eve and Day may not feel the same as they once did, but they remain meaningful. You cope as you go along, creating new memories while holding onto the lessons of the past. It’s essential to live in the moment and appreciate what you have now because it may not always be there.
Sometimes I feel like "Pourin' It All Out," and I did with this post! I thought Graham Parker's "Pourin' It All Out" was appropriate here.
"Then I found myself in a new year celebration, crying alone in a crowd,
Yeah, that really was some new year celebration, all bravado was strong and loud,
I don't mind telling you what I'm going through,
I don't mind telling you baby cause every word it true,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Tonight, all night, all right..." ♪♫
What great lyrics! I kicked off my New Year’s Eve with “Pourin’ It All Out,” and the night only got better from there. I ended up listening to Graham Parker’s Best Of... album, soaking in the music and having the best time. To top it all off, bursts of red, green, and gold fireworks lit up the night sky, making the evening truly unforgettable.
I also learned that in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the town raises a giant Hershey Kiss at the stroke of midnight! I already knew about the history of Hershey Park, that it was founded in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey of the Hershey Chocolate Company. But, I had no idea the town did something so special for New Year’s. I’d love to see that in person; it’s just too cool! 🎆
Happy New Year! Wishing everyone good health, prosperity, and luck in the new year. Let's make this a good one. #2025 🎉 🎊 🥂 🍾
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