Artist: The Fabulous Thunderbirds
Title: On The Verge (Severn Records)
You might be interested if you like: Junior Parker, Los Lonely Boys, Ben Harper
Tell me more: "On The Verge" will likely surprise casual fans of the Fabulous Thunderbirds (best known for their ‘80s hits “Tuff Enuff” and “Wrap It Up”) with a collection of mostly-original tunes mining a blend of Stax Records-styled R&B and soul as much as the Texas roadhouse blues that defined the group’s ‘70s and ‘80s work. From the hopeful blues of "I Want to Believe" to the soulful ballad "Do You Know Who I Am" that tackles the hardships of American life in 2013, "On The Verge" is one of the T-Birds' best albums. Throughout it all, Kim Wilson sings and blows his blues harp with a level of soul and sophistication that is simply thrilling. Information: www.FabulousThunderbirds.com.
listen to samples and get "On The Verge" here
Artist: Candice Night
Title: Reflections (UDR)
You might be interested if you like: Heart, the Corrs, Stevie Nicks
Tell me more: Best known for her role as lead vocalist of Blackmore's Night, singer-songwriter Candice Night's recent solo disc "Reflections" allows the singer to journey outside of the Renaissance arena to sing more modern material that incorporates country, folk, pop and New Age fused into her neo-Medieval approach. The beautiful "Black Roses" has an approach that is equal parts gothic rock and classical, whereas "Dangerous Smile" boasts a dance rock vibe. Night's sterling soprano also soars on the Celtic-flavored "For You" and folk gem "Alone With Fate." Information: www.udr-music.com.
listen to samples and get Candice Night here
Artist: Herb Alpert
Title: Fandango (Shout! Factory)
You might be interested if you like: Herb Alpert's Tijuana Brass
Tell me more: Long out of print, a long-awaited reissue of trumpeter Herb Alpert's solo masterwork "Fandango" is an instrumental album that resonates more than 30 years after its original release. The instrumental disc, which was recorded in Mexico City and boasts a Latin flair throughout, includes the upbeat title track, the Latin jazz standout "Margarita" and subtle "California Blues." Information: www.shoutfactory.com.
hear samples and get "Fandango" here
Artist: Alvin Lee
Title: I Hear You Rockin' (Viceroy Music)
You might be interested if you like: Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, George Harrison
Tell me more: Earlier this month, singer-songwriter and guitar great Alvin Lee of Ten Years After fame died during a surgical procedure. He was 68. I reviewed his most recent album "Still On The Road to Freedom" in late 2012, but with his passing on March 6, 2013 it seemed like a good idea to suggest fans interested in discovering more of his music should check out his wonderful 1994 release "I Hear You Rockin'," which features one of the most stunning blues ballads ever ("The Bluest Blues" featuring a haunting slide solo courtesy of George Harrison) and a masterful reworking of The Beatles' "I Want You (She's So Heavy)." The album is available on Amazon.com as an import.
Get "I Hear You Rockin" here
