DEJA RE-VU
Pop Culture Classics’ Recommended CDs, DVDs and Books
By Paul Freeman


DVDs

“DECOY”
When Angie Dickinson starred as “Police Woman” in 1974, it was hailed as a breakthrough - a cop series with a female protagonist. But that ground had been broken in 1957 with “Decoy.” It stars, in the role of earnest police detective Casey Jones, Beverly Garland (who was featured in such B-movies as “Swamp Women” and “It Conquered The World” and later played Fred MacMurray’s new wife on “My Three Sons”). This is a gritty, noirish show which makes excellent use of its diverse New York City settings. Film Chest Media Group has released the entire 39-episode series in a new 3-DVD set. It’s well worth discovering. Subject matter includes a deadbeat dad, obscene phone calls, narcotics trafficking, art forgery, gambling addiction, fixing basketball games and mobsters muscling into boxing. The impressive list of guest stars includes John Cassavetes, Edward Asner, Peter Falk, Larry Hagman, Diane Ladd, Joanna Linville, Lois Nettleton and Suzanne Pleshette. This is a 50s show whose appeal isn’t campy. The drama is consistently compelling, frequently suspenseful and sometimes thought-provoking. And Garland, who takes on a variety of shadings as she goes undercover, masquerading as everything from a convict to a carnival’s exotic dancer, is terrific throughout. “Decoy” is the real deal.

“GOLDEN YEARS”
Seniors are getting ripped off right and left. It’s time for a little role reversal. In this British warmedy, a retired couple (Bernard Hill and Virginia McKenna), stripped of their savings and pension, decide to get some payback. Financial institutions have committed legal robbery. So the pair pulls bank heists. Alun Armstrong (“New Tricks”) plays the police detective trying to solve the baffling case. But he’s facing ageism himself. Plausibility goes out the window early in this film. And the balance between poignancy and the broader comedic elements is sometimes a bit off-kilter. But a marvelous performance from McKenna (Best known in the U.S. for her starring role in 1966’s “Born Free”) and a fine, textured portrayal from Hill (King Theoden in “Lord of the Rings”) make the film irresistible. There’s charming support, particularly from the endearing Una Stubbs (Mrs. Hudson in “Sherlock”) and the ever effervescent Simon Callow (Gareth in “Four Weddings and a Funeral”), who play the pilfering pair’s closest chums. Acorn Media has made the film available on DVD.

“THE BLACK PIRATES”/“TALES OF ROBIN HOOD”
SWASHBUCKLER DOUBLE FEATURE
Sprocket Vault has released this fun double-feature. !954’s color flick “The Black Pirates” stars the intense Anthony Dexter, best known for playing the title role in the “Valentino” biopic. Pirates take over a Central American town as they search for hidden treasure. Lon Chaney Jr. is also in the cast. The second movie, the black-and-white “Tales of Robin Hood,” originally shot as a TV pilot, stars Robert Clarke as the hero of Sherwood Forest. Clarke, who has a role in “Black Pirates,” as well, displays a bit of dash and elan. The venerable Whit Bissell, as Will, offers his usual enthusiasm. But much of the acting otherwise, is as wooden as Robin’s bow. However, even without mega budgets, films like these two provide ample fencing, fighting and fun, as well as the requisite romance. Interviews with Clarke and “Robin” producer Robert L. Lippert, Jr. are among the extras.

“WILLARD”
Talk about a rodent problem! The horror classic “Willard” is now available in a two-disc, Blu-Ray/DVD set from Shout! Factory. You know you’re in trouble when your one true friend is a rat - literally. Meek, lonely young man Willard Stiles (Bruce Davison, whose fine performance is both endearing and unnerving) lives with his ailing mother (Elsa Lanchester of “Bride of Frankenstein” fame) and endures the abuse of his obnoxious boss (Ernest Borgnine). Willard befriends Ben the rat and discovers that the fierce, furry creature will do his bidding. Thus an army of rodents wreaks vengeance on Willard’s behalf. This quirky little thriller, well directed by Daniel Mann, is gripping from start to finish. The score was composed by the great Alex North. Sondra Locke, as the fetching temp at Willard’s office, is another strong contributor in the excellent cast. With a new 4K scan from the original camera negative, this Blu-Ray version looks fantastic. Fans of the film will love the new audio commentary track by Bruce Davison, as well as a new interview with the actor.

“RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S OKLAHOMA”
This iconic musical made its Broadway debut in 1943 and was adapted into an Academy Award-winning movie in 1955. There’s still plenty of life in the piece, as demonstrated in this exuberant revival, mounted in 1999 by the Royal National Theatre of Great Britain. The talented cast keeps the sensibility as American as apple pie. Hugh Jackman is note-perfect as Curly. The role calls for a lot of bravado and Jackman delivers it with charisma aplenty. And his vocals resonate beautifully. This show introduced such Rodgers & Hammerstein standards as “"Oklahoma!," "Surrey With A Fringe On Top," "Oh, What A Beautiful Morning" and "People Will Say We’re In Love.” In the new Shout! Factory Blu-Ray, the picture quality is striking. And the 2.0 Stereo DTS-HD sound brings out all the magnificence of the score and the performances. A behind-the-scenes featurette is among the bonuses.

“STREETS OF FIRE”
A rock ’n’ roll fable. That’s how the 1984 film “Streets of Fire” was categorized by filmmakers. Director/co-writer Walter Hill (“48 Hours,” “The Warriors”) set the action in “another time, another place.” Yes, it’s other-worldly. It feels like the 50s. It feels like the future. There are elements of westerns, musicals, noir and juvenile delinquent flicks. It has gloss; it has grit. The story? Hot female rock singer is kidnapped by an enemy motorcycle gang. Her ex-boyfriend faces impossible odds to rescue her. That’s it for the plot. But a thin narrative is no problem here. It’s the richness of the visuals and the power of the score that make the highly stylized film a must-see. Production design creates an alternate reality. Pervasive darkness and rain provide an oppressive, “Bladerunner” edginess. There are epic, well choreographed fight scenes. The editing adds plenty of punch, too. But the movie is really fueled by the music. The performance numbers are staged, in exciting, spectacular fashion. Jim Steinman (Meat Loaf’s “Bat Out of Hell”) penned two operatic rockers. Stevie Nicks wrote another number. But the key is Ry Cooder’s very cool, guitar-centric score. He also performs a blistering version of Link Wray’s “Rumble.” A teenaged Diane Lane plays the feisty, but vulnerable rock star, looking sensational in the process. She has all the right moves on stage. But the singing was actually done primarily by Laurie Sargent of 80s New Wave band Face To Face. The Blasters perform two roots rock numbers in the lair of the evil gang. Dan Hartman’s “I Can Dream About You” is performed on screen by the fictional doo-wop group The Sorels. The Fixx also appears on the soundtrack. Best acting performance comes from Willem Dafoe, who portrays the gang leader with a satanic smirk and a menacing gleam in his eye. The lead role of anti-hero Tom Cody (which was offered to several actors, including Tom Cruise) is handled by Michael Paré. As in “Eddie and the Cruisers,” he exudes attitude, charisma and a stoic, magnetic presence. Rick Moranis plays Lane’s obnoxious manager/current boyfriend. Amy Madigan plays a tough ex-soldier who joins Cody on his mission. The role was originally written for a man and Madigan gives it plenty of bluster. Deborah Van Valkenburgh, as Cody’s sister, gives the movie a bit of heart. “Streets of Fire,” with its mythic quality, visceral thrills and energy jolts, has become a cult classic. In many ways, it was ahead of its times, with its pre-MTV music dramatization and graphic novel sensibility. And the best way to experience it now is through Shout! Factory’s new, two-disc Collector’s Edition. The unique look of the film comes through vividly, thanks to a new 2K scan of the Interpositive. The second disc has great bonuses, including the newly shot “Shotguns & Six Strings: The Making of a Rock 'N Roll Fable.” It includes interviews with Paré, Madigan, Van Valkenburgh, Hill\, screenwriter Larry Gross and other participants.

“THE BIRD WITH THE CRYSTAL PLUMAGE”
Long before Quentin Tarantino burst onto the scene, writer/director Dario Argento (“Suspiria,” “Deep Red”) was introducing a highly stylized, inventive, jarring approach to violence. His first film, 1970’s thriller “The Bird with the Crystal Plumage,” has just been released by Arrow Video in a 2-disc, limited edition Blu-Ray + DVD version that maximizes the impact of Argento’s vision. In the film, Tony Musante plays an American writer, living in Rome, who witnesses a brutal attack on a young woman. He becomes obsessed with the perpetrator, a maniac terrorizing the city. That places him, and his girlfriend (Suzy Kendall), in grave danger. Argento displays such assurance as director, it’s hard to believe this was his debut. Referred to as “the Italian Hitchcock,” he has a stunning visual sense, making excellent use of sudden close-ups and sharp edits to heighten suspense and horror. Ennio Morricone’s eerie score adds to the edginess. Musante and Kendall stand out in a cast that’s predominately Italian. This impressive new edition, in HD Blu-Ray, looks startlingly pristine, thanks to a 4K restoration. There are loads of extras, including a new interview with Argento.

CDs

NEIL YOUNG - “DECADE”
Neil Young’s classic 1977 album “Decade” (originally released as a triple LP)), returns 40 year later in a new two-CD reissue (also available in three-LP and digital versions). The remastered tracks sound superb. The material emphasizes Young’s early years, including Buffalo Springfield, solo works, Crazy Horse, Crosby, Stills Nash & Young, and The Stills-Young Band recordings. Among the classic tunes are “Burned,” “Expecting to Fly,” “The Loner,” “Cinnamon Girl,” “Down By The River,” “Cowgirl in the Sand,” “Heart of Gold,” “Harvest,” “The Needle and the Damage Done,” “Like a Hurricane,” “Love Is a Rose,” “Cortez the Killer” and “Long May You Run.” Young’s defiant honesty, his inventiveness and power, along with the political and social conscience are all here. Originally the retrospective glanced back at the artist’s first 10 years, but now, all these decades later, the diversity, distinctiveness and dynamism are still jaw-dropping.

JETHRO TULL - “SONGS FROM THE WOOD”
“Songs From The Wood” was the 10th album from the British prog-rockers. It was released in 1977. It took them in a more folk-rock direction, blending traditional instruments with rocking drums and electric guitars. It represented another peak in frontman Ian Anderson’s songwriting, vocalizing and flute-playing. Highlights include “Cup of Wonder” and “Fire at Midnight.” A new 40th anniversary, deluxe 3-CD/2-DVD set has been released. The first CD contains a stereo remix plus previously unreleased tracks. The second and third discs are live performances of the songs from the 1977 “Songs From The Wood” tour. The first DVD presents a surround sound mix (DTS and Dolby 5.1), as well as LPCM stereo versions of both the original and remixed tracks. The second DVD contains previously unreleased video footage with choice of stereo and 5.1 audio. A 96-page hardcover book is part of this lavish box set.

LAURA CAMPISI - “DOUBLE MIRROR”
Campisi has a vocal style all her own and it’s quite captivating. Originally from Palermo, Sicily, now based in New York City, she has an approach that’s not mired in tradition. This enables her to create completely fresh-sounding, yet oh-so-right interpretations of such standards as “I Love You, Porgy” and “Love For Sale.” The debut album smoothly glides from jazz to folk to rock to hip-hop to Italian flavors. Her original compositions hold their own with songs penned by Bjork, Miles Davis, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Lou Reed and Jeff Buckley. And Campisi’s gently exciting, endlessly evocative vocalizing makes each track memorable.

“A BRONX TALE (ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST RECORDING)”
Based on Chazz Palminteri’s story of his tough 60s childhood in the Bronx, which was turned into an acclaimed film, this stage musical version proves to be absorbing, moving and entertaining. Alan Menken has composed an engaging, catchy score that brings in elements of the era’s doo-wop, pop and R&B sounds (lyrics by Glenn Slater). Nick Cordero gives a vigorous vocal performance as the mobster a young neighborhood kid idolizes. Another standout is Richard H. Blake, who plays the youngster’s father. Ariana DeBose, as romantic interest Jane delivers a lovely rendition of “Out of Your Head.” The songs tend to be invitingly cheery. But some do reflect the tale’s depiction of the struggle between family/honor/principle and the craving for money/power. Humor balances the dramatic elements. The dichotomies work well.

BAD COMPANY - “BURNIN’ SKY” and “RUN WITH THE PACK”
Rhino has released two new deluxe, double-disc editions of Bad Company classic albums. Newly remastered from original production tapes, they’re available on CD and 180-gram vinyl. Both contain bonus material. 1976’s “Run With The Pack,” a Top 5 album, includes such popular numbers as the title track, a cover of The Coasters’ “Young Blood” and “Silver, Blue and Gold.” Bonuses include the previously unissued ballad “Let There Be Love.” 1977’s “Burnin’ Sky” spawned two singles - the title track and “Everything I Need.” The deluxe edition’s bonus disc offers not only unreleased versions of nearly all the songs, but the previously unheard Paul Rodgers number, ‘Unfinished Story,” a laid-back, bluesy delight. The lineup of Rodgers, Mick Ralphs, Simon Kirke and Boz Burrell provide good company indeed, for classic rock aficionados.

CHARLES AZNAVOUR'S "SUR MA VIE"
Aznavour has been the master of French chanson for more than half a century. His breakthrough came when Edith Piaf asked him to join her U.S. tour in 1946. In 1956, he had his first number one hit in France, “Sur Ma Vie.” The handsome new five-CD set, “Sur Ma Vie,” chronicles Aznavour’s memorable studio work during his early years, 1952-1962. He demonstrates his brilliance as a songwriter and his expressiveness as a vocalist on such tunes as “Les Chercheurs d’Or,” “Apres L’Amour,” “Parce Que” and “Il Faut Savoir.” Each song elegantly and eloquently tells a story. An icon in France, Aznavour has written more than 1,300 songs. Here you’ll find many of his finest. Last year, at age 92, he returned to the U.S. for several concerts. His music is timeless.

SARAH PARTRIDGE - “BRIGHT LIGHTS AND PROMISES: REDEFINING JANIS IAN”
Jazz vocalist Sarah Partridge, for her fifth album, pays tribute to the great singer-songwriter Janis Ian. Partridge interprets not only well known songs like “At 17” and “Society’s Child,” but more obscure gems, as well. Like Ian, Partridge displays a rare intelligence and sensitivity in her work. There are two outstanding Partridge-Ian co-writes on the album, the clever opener, “A Quarter Past Heartache,” and “Somebody’s Child,” one of several songs displaying a stark and searing social awareness. Partridge’s supple, expressive voice brings out the deepest meanings of Ian’s profound lyrics. And her jazzy arrangements manage to beautifully complement Ian’s often folky sensibilities.

PAUL ROLNICK - “SHOOT FOR THE MOON”
Emmy-nominated songwriter/producer Paul Rolnick has just released his debut album. It’s filled with distinctive original pastel pop tunes, often colored with country influences. “South of the Coconut Line” has a tropical, breezy, Jimmy Buffet vibe. Rolnick gives a blues-rock edge to “Strumming My First Guitar.” Other top tracks include “Cold Enough to Cross,” “Step into the Light,” an uplifting “Believe What You’re Dreaming” and the lovely “I Still See You.” There are two charming duets with his wife, Karen Mason. Rolnick’s pleasing voice and skill as a songwriter give this album ample appeal.

TENANT FROM ZERO - “NAPE OF YOUR NECK”
Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Paul Darrah, recording under the name Tenant From Zero, has issued a potent EP, filled with beautiful, meaningful synth-pop songs. Darrah’s subtly emotional vocals have a sublimely sorrowful quality to them. Pain radiates in such songs as “Laugh at Me,” “I Know One Day You’ll Turn on Me Too” and “The Things You Never Said.” Hauntingly lovely tracks include “Who Painted This Past Year Blue” and “The Orange of Autumn.” The appealing “Grant McLennan” is an homage to the lead singer of Australian band The Go-Betweens. Often there’s an intriguing juxtaposition between the infectious beats and the troubled lyrical content. Throughout, there’s a winsome, wistful quality to the music that calls to mind 80s duo Everything But The Girl. This is an ear-catching debut. Tenant From Zero has a lot to say and says it eloquently.

FRANCOIS XAVIER ROTH/LES SIECLES - “DAPHNIS ET CHLOE"
With his orchestra Les Siècles using period instruments, conductor Francois Xavier Roth has captured the magic of French orchestral compositions from the early 1900s. This new release, recorded during Les Siècles’ European tour last year, reveals all the dramatic power of Maurice Ravel’s beautiful 1912 ballet, “Daphnis et Chloe.” Ravel conceived this as, fundamentally, a choreographed symphony. With majestic music, it tells the Greek tale of goat herder Daphnis and his great love, the shepherdess Chloé. Roth’s interpretation conveys all of the passion coursing through Ravel’s piece, whether it’s in soaring, ecstatic passages or delicate, nuanced, tender moments. Performing with gut strings, unusual forms of wind instruments and original percussion gives the ballet an authenticity, while heightening the emotional impact.

CHRYSTA BELL - “WE DISSOLVE”
"Twin Peaks" fans know Chrysta Bell as FBI agent Tammy Preston. With the release of this new album, music fans are about to know her as an exciting singer and songwriter. Raised in Texas, Bell began singing on sessions at age 13. She recorded with bands in the 90s and created solo projects in collaboration with David Lynch. This new album teams her with producer John Parish, who has worked with PJ Harvey, Tracy Chapman, Giant Sand, Sparklehorse and Eels. Guests include Adrian Utley of Portishead. But this is Bell’s show. And she has a riveting presence. Her distinctive, magnetic vocals pierce the atmospheric arrangements that meld elements of rock, dance, jazz and soul. The mesmerizing tracks include “Devil Inside Me,” “Heaven,” Gravity” and “Over You.” A haunting, mysterious quality swirls through the tracks. In “Half Asleep,” she sings, “Now and then I feel a boundless ocean flowing over me and I just disappear.” With recordings like “We Dissolve,” Bell should remain very visible for a long time.

DELTA WIRES - BORN IN OAKLAND”
Bay Area blues-rock band Delta Wires is back with their seventh album and this one is brimming with fire, funk and fun. “Vacation” is a rousing rocker. The mood goes quieter and more introspective on the effective “Devil’s in My Headset.” The energy level soars up again on the carefree “I Don’t Care.” The closer, “All I Have to Give” is another strong song. The whole band is tight and talented. Lead vocalist/harmonica player Ernie Pinata and guitarist Richard Healy particularly shine. The band did, indeed, originate in Oakland. That was 30 years ago. Having been inducted into the California Blues Hall of Fame, Delta Wires continues to make music that will grab you and hold you.

BERTA MORENO - “LITTLE STEPS”
Jazz saxophonist/composer Berta Moreno makes a strong first impression with her debut album, “Little Steps.” She coaxes a warm, voluptuous sound from her tenor sax. And all eight of her original compositions prove to be quite winning. There’s a subdued sense of urgency to “Lost & Found.” A slight touch of whimsy colors “Cosmic Dance.” Moreno brings a gentle loveliness to “Lullaby for Rafi.” “Mind The Gap” stirs excitement. “Broadway Bells” resonates. Bop and Latin influences weave through the work. Moreno is joined by an outstanding group of musicians who complement her vision. Her interaction with the alto and soprano saxophonists is intuitive and works powerfully. Moreno’s music is accessible, yet complex and challenging. That’s a combination that bodes well for her future.

LIGHTHOUSE SWEDEN - “SILENCE IN THE CITY”
This band from Sweden offers an exciting variation on familiar American music forms - rock ’n’ roll, pop, blues, folk, funk and country. Led by husband-and-wife team Linda and Mats Brandemark, the group delivers exceptional songwriting and captivating performances Linda and Mats take turns on lead vocals and blend beautifully on harmonies. Mats’ rugged voice creates an effective contrast to Linda’s sweet tones. One of her loveliest vocals comes on the closing number, “Angel.” Among the other top tracks are “Everybody’s Been a Fool,” “Neon Signs,” “Easier to Lie” and “Silent City.” Moods range from sunshiny to ethereal to darker. But the sound is always appealing.

JACO PASTORIUS - “TRUTH, LIBERTY & SOUL: LIVE IN NYC”
This two-disc set from Resonance Records captures the brilliant bassist’s 1982 concert for George Wein's Kool Jazz Festival at Avery Fisher Hall. The set was broadcast by NPR’s “Jazz Alive” program. But this new double-disc package, assembled from the original 24-track tape reels, adds an additional 40 minutes, so you’ll get to experience the concert in its entirety. Pastorius is leading his 22-piece Word of Mouth Big Band. Notable members included Randy Brecker, Peter Erskine and Jon Faddis. Harmonica great Toots Thielemans is a featured soloist. Pastorius isn’t interested in just showing off his wizardry on bass. His attention is on the music as a whole. And he displays his ample gifts as an arranger and bandleader. Whether it’s on Charlie Parker’s “Donna Lee,” Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Lady,” Bob Marley’s “I Shot The Sheriff” or his own “Liberty City,” Pastorius ignites one vibrant musical moment after another.

DIANA KRALL - “TURN UP THE QUIET”
Shhh. Eliminate all distractions, get cozy and embrace the enticing intimacy of Diana Krall’s new album, “Turn Up The Quiet.” With a minimalist approach and armed with extraordinarily alluring arrangements, Krall brings her vocal finesse to 11 standards. She makes each of them her own. “Like Someone in Love,” “Isn’t It Romantic” and “Moonglow” are soothing and seductive. Krall’s low, whispery tones on “Sway” will melt you. Her rendition of Johnny Mercer’s “Dream” is sigh-inducing. “L-O-V-E,” “Blue Skies” and “I’ll See You in My Dreams” gently swing. Krall imbues the album with a beguiling air of romance. Tommy LiPuma produced the project with Krall. And the production is impeccable - subtle, sensitive and infinitely inviting. LiPuma passed away prior to the record’s release, but knowing that he had helped to create this album of lasting, haunting beauty.

NAT KING COLE TRIO - “SWISS RADIO DAYS VOL. 43 - ZURICH 1950”
This live set, recorded in October of 1950 at Kongresshaus in Zurich, captures both sides of Cole’s immense talent - the jazz pianist and smooth vocalist. Ten instrumental tracks here allow Cole’s keyboard artistry to shine. His dynamics, rhythm and phrasing make these instrumentals enthralling. Among the highlights are ”Summertime,” “Bop Kick,” “Body and Soul” and “Saint Louis Blues. Cole gives his fellow musicians - guitarist Irving C. Ashby, bassist Joe Comfort and percussionist Jack Costanza (known as “Mr. Bongo”) - to have their moments in the spotlight. And they make the most of them. The vocal numbers are equally entertaining. Cole’s marvelously mellow tones will transport the listener on such tunes as “Too Marvelous For Words,” “Embraceable You,” “Sweet Lorraine” and “Route 66.” With his flying fingers or velvety vocal cords, Cole made musical magic.

“ROSEBUD”
Having released the Judy Henske/Jerry Yester lost classic “Farewell Aldebaran,” Omnivore now makes available another treasure, 1971’s “Rosebud.” That was the name of a band featuring folk icon Henske and her then husband Yester. Yester, a former member of the Modern Folk Quartet, had become a prominent producer, helming albums by Tim Buckley and The Association (which featured his brother Jim Yester). In “Rosebud,” he displays dazzling skills as an arranger, particularly as a vocal arranger. Rich four-part harmonies soar. The eclectic album seamlessly blends folk-rock, art-pop, jazz and Americana shades. “Le Soleil” is a luminescent tour de force. “Lorelei” and “Lullabye II [Summer Carol]” are also exquisite tracks. Henske’s powerfully emotive voice stands out on “The Yum Yum Man” and “Flying To Morning.” The new Omnivore release offers 10 bonus tracks, including demos and previously unreleased songs. “Father of Souls,” in particular, is a rediscovered treasure. The band had a short life, but the music of Rosebud continues to bloom.

“MAVIS STAPLES: I’LL TAKE YOU THERE - AN ALL STAR CONCERT CELEBRATION”
In Chicago, in November, 2014, an array of superstars gathered to pay tribute to Mavis Staples on the occasion of her 75th birthday. Grammy winner Don Was served as musical director and assembled a big, powerhouse band. Blackbird Presents has made the show available in several forms, including a 3-disc CD/DVD package. Blessed with one of the most soul-stirring voice ever heard, Staples has inspired listeners and fellow artists for decades. She can still bring it, as evidenced when she sings “Turn Me Around” with Bonnie Raitt and “Respect Yourself” with Aaron Neville. Her duet with Jeff Tweedy, “You Are Not Alone,” is a sweet entwining of two distinctive musical talents. Tweedy produced Staples’ album of that title. When Staples delivers “I’ll Take You There,” it’s definitely the place you want to be. Among the luminaries lending their talents to the spectacular show are Gregg Allman, Taj Mahal, Eric Church, Ryan Bingham, Grace Potter, Widespread Panic, Glen Hansard, Michael McDonald, Keb’ Mo’, Joan Osborne, Patty Griffin and Emmylou Harris. The HD quality, full-length DVD of the live concert features Dolby 5.1 surround stereo. If the gospel and soul sounds on this disc don’t lift your spirits, nothing will.

DION - “KICKIN’ CHILD”
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dion DiMucci should be considered one of the most important and influential rock artists of all time. Unfortunately, a large part of his diverse body of work goes largely ignored. The purveyor of “Bronx soul” broke through with the popular doo-wop group The Belmonts in the 50s (“A Teenager in Love,” “Donna The Prima Donna”). In the early 60s, he scored such unforgettable solo smashes as “Runaround Sue” and “The Wanderer.” As times and tastes changed, Dion’s style evolved. But it took a while for the public - and the industry - to catch up with him. In 1965, he recorded the “Kickin’ Child” album for Columbia. Although it’s difficult to fathom now, the label shelved the record. No, it doesn’t sound like Dion’s previous successes. But it would have fit in beautifully with what jangly guitar-based folk-rock bands like The Byrds and Beau Brummels were doing at the time. Dion added his own bluesy feel. Thank heavens, this “lost” album has finally been found… and released. It’s contains many wonderful Dion originals, including “Now,” “My Love,” “Tomorrow Won’t Bring The Rain” “Wake Up Baby” and “So Much Younger.” There are also outstanding covers - Tom Paxton’s “I Can’t Help But Wonder Where I’m Bound,” Mort Shuman’s “All I Want to Do Is Live My Life” and Dylan’s “Sometime I’m in the Mood For You,” “Farewell” and “It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue.” Dion’s extraordinarily soulful, urgent and expressive voice brings depth, making each performance compelling and authentic. In 1968, Dion enjoyed a comeback with “Abraham, Martin and John.” But he should have been welcomed back royally three years earlier with these 15 brilliant tracks. Even 52 years late, this album is a gift. Last year’s “New York Is My Home” showed that Dion can still write great songs and sing them like nobody else. Let’s pay closer attention.

JOHN BATDORF - “NEXT STOP WILLOUGHBY”
Well known for his work with the folk-rock duo Batdorf & Rodney and the band Silver (whose "Wham Bam Shang-A-Lang” is featured in “Guardians of the Galaxy II”), serves up a pleasing solo effort here. He says it was inspired by Paul McCartney’s 1970 one-man-band solo debut. Batdorf has a friendly folk-rock-pop sound, an engaging voice and a knack for penning songs that stick with listeners. “Willoughby” is an homage to the “Twilight Zone” TV series. “They Can’t Have Everything” is an incisive political commentary. But most of the songs on the new album deal with relationships. Some of the most appealing are “I’m In Love with You,” “Sure Could Use Some Love,” “Unanswered Prayer” and “The One That Got Away.” “I Remember You” is another one that resonates. Next stop? Checking out the rest of Batdorf’s vast body of work.

BOBBY BARE - “THINGS CHANGE”
On his new album, Bobby Bare exhibits a world weariness in his voice and his lyrics. And that only makes him even more effective as a communicator. He’s not mired in melancholy. He is embracing the fact that “Things Change.” At 82, the outlaw country legend still writes songs that are eminently relatable and unflaggingly honest. His collaboration with Guy Clark, “Trophy Girl” (Clark’s last songwriting effort) recounts a romance slipping away. Other exceptional tracks include “The Trouble With Angels,” “The End” and “Where Did It Go,” as well as Mary Gauthier’s “Mercy Now” and “I Drink.” The album closes with a new version of Bare’s 1963 Grammy-winner “Detroit City” (written by Mel Tillis and Danny Dill). Chris Stapleton joins him on the track. Full circle. In the song “Things Change,” Bare sings, “Things change, don’t blink your eye, ’cause if you do, they’ll pass you by.” Bare remains as relevant as ever. And that will never change.

BOOKS

BEBE DANIELS: HOLLYWOOD’S GOOD LITTLE BAD GIRL
By Charles L. Epting [McFarland; www.mcfarlandpub.com; 800-253-2187]
Bebe Daniels was one of the biggest stars of Hollywood’s silent era. But while her contemporaries Mary Pickford and Clara Bow remain well known figures, Daniels has been largely forgotten in this country. That’s a shame, because, though much of her early work has been lost, her charm and charisma shine through in what still exists. Author Charles L. Epting has done his best to remedy the situation, bringing to light Daniels’ remarkable story. She shot to fame in her early teens, co-starring in comedies with her first love, Harold Lloyd. She was his muse. Daniels was one of the silent stars who actually survived the shift to talkies. She dazzled in musicals like “42nd Street.” Daniels also starred in the 1931 version of “The Maltese Falcon.” Over the course of her film career, she segued from ingenue to adorable vamp to mature woman. Throughout, she was eminently likable on screen. Daniels and her husband, actor Ben Lyon, eventually emigrated to England. There, they and their children became fixtures in radio and television with their based-on-real-life series, “Life With The Lyons,” sort of the U.K. version of “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.” In this well-researched book, we learn about each of Daniels’ roles, as well as the evolution of her personal life. It’s a heartwarming tale.

SURF CITY: THE JAN & DEAN STORY
By Dean Torrence
Jan & Dean were, arguably, the ultimate California musical act of the early 60. Their story contains everything needed to keep the reader enthralled - fun, excitement, tragedy and rise from the ashes. It’s all told here in warm, entertaining style by Dean Torrence. His life changed, when in high school, he met fellow football player Jan Berry - handsome, confident, ambitious and immensely talented. They shared a love of doo-wop and vocal group records and began harmonizing. Hits like “Baby Talk” followed. Then they noticed the ascendent Beach Boys, who opened numerous shows for the duo. They befriended Brian Wilson. And Wilson allowed them to use his song “Surf City.” Berry revised it with him, with some key little contributions from Torrence. Wilson, much to the later chagrin of his enraged father Murry, even sang on the Jan & Dean single. It became the first number one surf 45. It’s appropriate, because surfing had always been a part of the duo’s lifestyle. The Beach Boys maintained a strong friendship with Jan & Dean over the decades (Mike Love wrote the foreword for this book). The duo also had car-related hits like “Drag City,” “Little Old Lady From Pasadena,” and “Dead Man’s Curve,” as well as the first skateboarding anthem, “Sidewalk Surfin’.” Teens related to their personalities, their subject matter and their sound. Production-wise, Berry proved himself to be an innovator in the studio. Torrence documents the dream-come-true events in breezy style, including their role as hosts for the legendary “T.A.M.I Show.” There are encounters with many of the leading figures of the era’s music scene, including Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Dick Clark and the Wrecking Crew. And Torrence relates all the joyful whirlwind of being a young pop star. Jan & Dean were on the verge of TV stardom by 1966. But that all came to a screeching halt, when Berry smashed his Corvette to a pulp on Dead Man’s Curve. He barely survived, suffering brain damage after a lengthy coma. That seemed to be the end of the Jan & Dean Story. Torrence achieved success in graphic arts, becoming a sought-after album cover designer in the late 70s. He became involved in a TV movie about the duo’s dramatic saga. When it aired, the dramatized “Dead Man’s Curve” brought a huge resurgence of interest in the pair. Once Berry was recovered enough to return to the stage, they resumed performing. There were more trials and tribulations, but more triumphs, as well. And Torrence documents them frankly in the book. Jan & Dean also brought a keen sense of humor to their records and Torrence uses it well in the casual tone of the autobiography. He also captures the poignant aspects. Be sure to check out our vintage Dean Torrence interview: http://popcultureclassics.com/jan_dean.html