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


DVDs

"THE DETECTORISTS"
If you haven't yet experienced this BAFTA Award-winning BBC comedy, you're really cheating yourself. For three too-brief seasons, "The Detectorists" has proven itself to be gently and endlessly endearing. Now series three is available on DVD from Acorn Media. When a show has been as perfect as this one, fans might fear that a letdown could be coming eventually. Not in the capable hands of the series' creator, writer, director and star, Mackenzie Crook. These most recent six episodes (on two discs) are filled with delights, surprises and further development of a set of very well drawn and engaging characters. Crooks plays Andy Stone, who with his chum, Lance Stater (played with equal appeal by Toby Jones, who portrayed Alfred Hitchcock in HBO's "The Girl"), passionately pursue their hobby -- metal detecting. In their lovely little rural English village, they hunt for treasures amidst the camaraderie and rivalries of the local metal detecting club. In series three, Andy faces new complications, as he, his wife Becky (Rachael Stirling) and their baby move in with their mother-in-law (played deliciously by Stirling's real life mum, Diana Rigg). Lance is trying to cope with elusive relationships with his grown daughter, as well as his girlfriend. Will Andy and Lance ever get their personal lives together? Will they finally unearth some significant historical objects. One thing's for certain -- the show itself is a rare gem. Crook and Jones are absolutely marvelous, playing off one another subtly and brilliantly. The supporting cast is outstanding, as well. From the outset, every element of the series has been exactly right, including the disarming theme song by Johnny Flynn ( star of another fine British comedy, ("Lovesick"). "The Detectorists" is an irresistibly low-key, quirky, smart show you'll wish would never end. Bonus features in the new release include a chat with Crook, insights from cast and crew, and a wonderful little interview with Stirling and Rigg. "The Detectorists" is a series to be cherished.

"DEAR MURDERER"
This appealing New Zealand mini-series is based on the true story of renowned, controversial criminal barrister Mike Bungay. He's a colorful character whose boisterous bravado covers a mass of insecurities. And no amount of women and whisky can fully mask them. Coming from humble roots and a damaging childhood, Bungay rises to the top of the legal world, ruffling establishment feathers along the way. He defends the indefensible, at first without qualms. But eventually, self-doubt and guilt creep in. The self-destructive Bungay sabotages his romantic relationships and grows emptier and lonelier. But all of this is played with a winning element of humor, amidst the genuine drama. Mark Mitchinson ("The Hobbit") is a revelation in the role of Bungay, convincingly exploring all facets of this man who's simultaneously charming and unsavory. The series begins in the 60s and depicts decades in Bungay's life. As soon as you've finished viewing the five episodes of Series 1 on the new Acorn two-DVD set, you'll be eager to see more of the marvelous Mr. Bungay.

"MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000: THE SINGLES COLLECTION"
Hey, MiSTies, these "singles" are all hits! They're singles, because these titles haven't been released in Shout! Factory's numbered volume packages. They were previously made available on VHS and then, about 16 years ago, as individual DVDs. To have them now available in this great six-disc set, is a real treat. The 50s' sci-fi/horror "The Crawling Hand" brings us an astronaut who dies on a mission and his disembodied hand returns from space to strangle people and possess a young man's mind. The unusually strong cast includes Peter Breck, Alan Hale, Jr., Allison Hayes, Ross Elliott, Arline Judge and Richard Arlen, but they can't battle the absurdities of the script. Our trusty crew of Joel and the 'bots can, however. You'll spot J. Elvis Weinstein appearing in this early MST episode as Dr. Forrester's original crazed assistant. The crew also adds spice to 1968's "The Hellcats," in which Ross Hagen plays a retired solider who joins an outlaw biker gang to investigate his brother's murder. Brother! It's murder, all right. You might notice Sonny West, best known as Elvis Presley's bodyguard, prominently featured in the cast. One of the series' classic eps is here, as well -- the bizarre "Santa Claus Versus the Martians." The cast, which ranges from wooden to hammy, includes Pia Zadora, a child non-star. The crew serves up all sorts of holiday fun."Eegah!" features Richard "Jaws" Kiel as a prehistoric man who shows up in the rock 'n' roll era and prompts a wealth of riotous riffs. Perhaps best of all is 1944's "I Accuse My Parents," a cautionary tale about juvenile delinquency. And yes, it's all mom and dad's fault. In one of the funny segments breaking up the film, the 'bots sketch their families and Joel psychoanalyzes these telling works. There's another memorable segment with Gypsy imitating one of the movie's night club scenes. The short "The Truck Farmer" precedes the feature and whets the appetite for more laughs. The final disc in the package is a terrific shorts collection (Volume 3). Weirdness runs amok! Highlights among these seven industrial and educational shorties include "Speech: Using Your Voice," "Design For Dreaming" and the surreal "Once Upon a Honeymoon," directed by legendary choreographer Gower Champion. Joel Hodgson aptly points out during a lull in one of the turgidly paced movies, life is much like these turkeys: "We're born and we die... and there's lots of padding in between." But even the deadliest flicks can be sparked into high entertainment thanks to lively riffing. And the riffs here are snappy throughout. There are also some juicy extras, including featurettes on some of the filmmakers, as well as insightful interviews with MST 3000 creator Hodgson.

"NIGHT OF THE LEPUS"
Scientific experiments gone awry may eventually destroy civilization as we know it. But in the meantime, they sure provide fodder for some wonderfully campy horror flicks. The hare-raising 1972 terror tale "Night of the Lepus" depicts a heard of giant, killer rabbits about to wreak havoc on an Arizona ranching community. Researchers trying to keep the rabbits from overrunning the area have blundered into creating countless furry, hungry, hopping monsters. These bunnies no longer crave carrots. And mmmm, those ranchers sure look tasty. It's an all-out war -- humans versus their formerly cuddly, long-eared fellow mammals. The 70s brought us tons of horrors involving murderous mutant creatures, such as bears, whales, sharks, hogs and dogs. But who expected bunnies to pose a threat? This movie has a 50s B-movie sensibility, which makes it more fun. Adding to your viewing pleasure is a surprisingly terrific cast, including Janet Leigh, Stuart Whitman, Rory Calhoun, DeForest Kelley and Paul Fix. After viewing this one, you'll never again look at the Easter Bunny without a trace of wariness. The new Scream Factory Blu-ray release, courtesy of a new 2K scan from original film elements, makes the rabbits' eyes and teeth even more vividly scary. Bonus features include new audio commentary tracks. Beware the rampaging rabbits!

"OF UNKNOWN ORIGIN"
Enjoy being creeped out? Then you'll have fearful furry fun with this 1983 Canadian-American horror flick, shot in Montreal, but set in New York. It's now available on Blu-ray from Scream Factory. The images are chillingly crisp, thanks to a new 2K scan from the interpositive. The plot involves a Wall Street exec who relishes the comfort of his stylish Manhattan brownstone. His idyllic home life is shattered however, when an oversized rodent invades. The man obsesses, engaging in all-out war with his devilish intruder. The battle takes over his life. In a darkly comical scene, he ruins a dinner party with his discourse on rats, which his guests find disgusting. Sharply directed by George P. Cosmatos ("Rambo: First Blood Part II," "Cobra," "Tombstone"), this psychological thriller serves up plenty of suspense and some very effective scares. But it's the performance of Peter Weller ("Adventures of Buckaroo Bonzai" and "RoboCop") that really makes the movie interesting. His performances are always complex and quirky enough to make any of his films well worth watching. New extras include an entertaining interview with actor Louis Del Grande, a chat with writer Brian Taggert and another with the executive producer. And you definitely don't want to miss an audio commentary with Cosmatos and Weller.

"THE RETURN OF SWAMP THING"
Yes, pollution can come back to haunt you! "The Return of Swamp Thing" has returned, looking better, and swampier than ever, courtesy of MVD Rewind's new Blu-ray/DVD release. It benefits from a 2K high-definition transfer. Directed by Jim Wynorski ("Piranhaconda"), this is a colossally campy comic book adaptation. It's horror/action with tongue planted firmly in cheek. Who needs Ant-Man? We've got Plant-Man. He's a scientist who had been working to save the environment, transformed into the monstrous-looking, leafy, but still noble Swamp Thing. Dick Durock wears the swampy costume. Though Louis Jourdan probably wonders how he ended up here after his dapper days in lavish MGM musicals like "Gigi," he's menacingly fun to watch as the villainous scientist. Heather Locklear may be enduring her own real-life horror story at the moment, but she shines here with lines like, "Why can't men be more like plants? I mean, you can stroke a plant and it doesn't get the wrong idea." The new two-disc special edition offers tons of bonus features, including new interviews, a new commentary track that features the director and even a couple of Greenpeace PSAs.

"ELIS"
A household name in Brazil, singer Elis Regina lived a remarkable, tragic life and it's been brought to life in vibrant fashion by the biopic "Elis." Now available on DVD from Cleopatra Entertainment, the film, directed by Hugo Prata and written by Luiz Bolognesi and Vera Egito, it recreates the exciting music scene and oppressive political atmosphere of Brazil in the 60s and 70s. The society, particularly within the arts community, was growing more adventurous, while a military dictatorship did all it could to quell freedom and true creativity. Elis had gained renown as a child performer, but the film covers her teen years through her 1982 death at age 36. Her voice was always amazing, bursting with honest emotion. But her stage presence was stilted early on. We see her blossom into an amazingly dynamic performer. She becomes a superstar in her country. But fame and fortune don't satisfy her. And the always frank Elis rankles the military regime by making harsh comments while she's in the spotlight overseas. There's a harrowing scene in which she's interrogated and her baby is threatened. Coerced into performing at a military event, she's then scorned by some of her Leftist friends. She doesn't want to be a role model. She can't stand having her choice of songs censored. All she wants is to sing, unencumbered.The crumbling of her two marriages adds to her inner torment. She adores her children. But there's still some aching, undefined void. She turns to substance abuse as an escape. In front of the microphone, every ounce of her soul pours out -- all the joy, yearning, desire, anger, outrage and pain. And it's the music sequences that give the film its great spirit. The biopic works so well, because of the sensational performance of Andréia Horta as Elis. She captures the vocalist's energy, charisma... and anguish. She nails the Elis gestures, expressions, movements, distinctive laugh. The film explores an artist's gift, compulsion and torment. And its music makes the journey riveting.

"BANG! THE BERT BERNS STORY"
When this outstanding documentary emerged, earning acclaim at film festivals, we wrote in our PCC review:

He wrote songs like “Piece of My Heart,” “Tell Him,” “A Little Bit of Soap,” “Look Away,” “Here Comes The Night,” “Everybody Needs Somebody to Love,” “Hang on Sloopy,” “Brown Eyed Girl,” “I Want Candy,” “Twist and Shout” and “Shout!” He produced such classics as “Under The Boardwalk.” But Bert Berns doesn’t often get the public recognition he deserves. Last year, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award. “Bang! The Bert Berns Story,” a fascinating new documentary about the man, is now available through Apple Music and iTunes. The “white soul brother” was the son of Russian-Jewish immigrants. Berns had a damaged heart, due to a bout with rheumatic fever during his teens. With his physical activities curtailed, Berns turned his energy to music. Because of his health issues, he felt a sense of urgency. He had to accomplish great things and do it quickly. Doctors predicted his life would be short. He packed a lot of living — and creating — into the time he had. He had a darkness lurking that would stir an emotional power into his songwriting. Bringing Cuban rhythms to R&B and rock ’n’ roll music, Berns, a true innovator, had a huge effect on the 50s and 60s music scene, both in the U.S. and the U.K. He wrote and/or produced hit after hit. Artists who benefited from his genius included Solomon Burke, Garnet Mimms, Erma Franklin, The Drifters, Van Morrison (with and without Them), The Isley Brothers, The McCoys and Janis Joplin. British Invasion bands The Beatles, The Animals and The Rolling Stones covered his songs. Berns was responsible for much of Atlantic Records’ success, when the company was struggling after the exit of Ray Charles. (Atlantic partner Jerry Wexler ends up being the film’s villain.) Berns, with a blazing drive, eventually founded his own label, Bang Records. Neil Diamond established himself there. With plenty of music business people ready to rip-off associates, Berns befriended mobsters who didn’t hesitate to help protect his interests. He would let nothing stand in his way, but he was beloved by his peers. Among those interviewed for this documentary, over the course of eight years, were songwriting legends Mike Stoller, Brooks Arthur, Jerry Ragavoy, Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich, plus Brenda Reid of The Exciters, Betty Harris, Cissy Houston of the Sweet Inspirations, Van Morrison, Ronald Isley, Ben E. King, Keith Richards, Paul McCartney, record executives and family members, including Berns’ widow and daughter, as well as music journalist Joel Selvin, who wrote the Berns biography “Here Comes The Night.” Steven Van Zandt narrates the documentary. The film, directed by the subject’s son Brett Berns and Bob Sarles, is compelling from start to finish. Berns’ heart finally failed him in 1967. He was 38. But he leaves behind an incredible legacy. This fine film gives us a far better idea of just how much of a lasting impact he made on the music world.

Now the documentary is finally available on DVD. It was worth the wait. The 64 minutes of bonus footage includes more McCartney and Richards, as well as interviews with Andrew Loog Oldham, Brooks Arthur, Solomon Burke and The Strangeloves! There's a great sequence with back-to-back snippets of McCartney and Isley reflecting on "Twist and Shout, commenting on one another's versions. Oldham and Richards offer perceptive opinions on how Berns affected the about-to-explode British scene. Betty Harris spontaneously delivers an incredibly soul-stirring a cappella "Cry to Me." A touching segment with Berns' daughter Cassandra is another highlight. There are lots of juicy, informative tidbits here, enriching the overall Berns experience and adding insights into the record business of that era.

Visit www.bangthebertbernsstory.com.

CDs

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE - "EVENTUALLY IS NOW"
When it comes to pumping out power-pop that's melodic, memorable, meaningful and immensely appealing, New Orleans-based The Junior League is definitely in a league of its own. The album, musically rich and diverse, gets off to a buoyantly pleasing start with "Teenage Bigstar," which wistfully mentions The Beatles and The Monkees, as well as the two bands referenced in the song's title, groups that took a 60s sensibility and gave it a modern flair, just as The Junior League has done on its albums. You can bask in the warmth of the tune and the supple, surf-style harmonies. As front man/songwriter Joe Adragna sings, you're never all alone, because "Music is your friend." Songs like "I Only Want to Begin Again" are wonderfully catchy and well crafted. "Someday" is a charmer that will have your head bopping. Several lovely, lush ballads decorate the album. The hauntingly beautiful "The Wrong Kind of Blue" benefits from not only sweetly soaring strings, but a cool, brief Duane Eddy-type twangy guitar break. Dramatic emotion surges through "The Strength of the Hurricanes." On every number, production and arrangements perfectly complement Adragna's deeply affecting songwriting. And his expressive vocals are strong throughout. The material doesn't hide from melancholy or yearning, but it also uplifts with ample joy and jangle. With a little help from such talented friends as Scott McCaughey of The 5 Minus, Adragna has created another outstanding album. This is indie pop-rock at its finest. Surely Adragna must break through to mainstream recognition eventually. And eventually should be now.

CLARA BELLINO - "UNEXPECTED"
As expected, Clara Bellino's new album "Unexpected" proves to be irresistible. A native of France who moved to California in her teens, Bellino has become one of the Bay Area's most consistently pleasing and accomplished singer-songwriters. The album's title is apt, however, because it brims with wonderful little musical surprises. "El Crepusculo" undulates with an enticing Latin rhythm and Bellino's lovely vocal is equally magnetic. Her charming harmonies contribute to the number's charm. And the fine, flowing guitar work of Matthew Charles Heulitt, reminiscent of Carlos Santana, adds another dimension. Bellino's lovely, girlishly beguiling voice, accompanied by her acoustic guitar, is all that's needed to make the disarming, unplugged "Leave It to Me" thoroughly engaging. The album closes with a full mix version of the song, which has a rare resonance. Hope shines through in "I Came Here," as Bellino sings, "I came here to give my dreams a place to blossom; I came here to cast away what's best forgotten; And I came here to look beyond my small horizon; That's why I came here." The lyrics reveal a journey through struggle and sorrow, finding on the other side, renewal and optimism. That number utilizes a full band sound with a satisfying blend of ukulele, banjo, and pedal steel, among other instruments. Sax, keyboard horns and harp add to the soulful splendor of "Un Enfant," which was written by Jacques Brel and Gerard Jouannest. Bellino's own "Talking with Angels -- A Song for Bobby Sharp," is a moving tribute to the late singer/pianist/songwriter ("Unchain My Heart"), with whom Bellino collaborated when he was in his eighties. Paul Eastburn's mandolin work enhances "Echimakko." Bellino's disarming, rhythmic vocal is a key ingredient among the jazzy pleasures of the Jacques Datin/Robert Gall tune "Pense a Moi." I expect that you'll want to hear these captivating tracks again and again.

KINKY FRIEDMAN - "CIRCUS OF LIFE"
Yes, he's a successful novelist and a former candidate for the office of Governor of Texas. But at his core, Kinky Friedman is a singer-songwriter. And one of the best. His style, wit and heart have always shown a disarming distinctiveness and honesty. With courage, candor and originality, he first began courting controversy in the early 70s, fronting his Texas Jewboys band. His songwriting ranged from hilarious to heartbreaking. His latest, "Circus of Life," Friedman's first full album of all-new original songs in 40 years (2015's great "Loneliest Man I Ever Met" was mostly covers), is remarkably compelling. It's filled with wry and knowing observations. There's a unique, rugged authenticity to both his worldly, well-worn vocals and his perceptive lyrics. Friedman can be poetic, ironic or clever. But poignancy is the primary component of the new record. And there are plenty of pretty melodies. These songs reflect Friedman's gentle, compassionate, sentimental side. The title track, "Circus of Life," is Friedman at his most eloquent and moving. The accordion of Augie Meyers (Sir Douglas Quintet) and the mandolin of Joe Cirotti help bring a tear to your eye. "Jesus in Pajamas" is an example of how Friedman can simultaneously be both wonderfully amusing and deeply serious. Kinky indeed. Also among the most memorable numbers are "Song About You," "Me & My Guitar," "Sister Sarah" and "Back to Grace." "Autographs in the Rain (Song to Willie)" is a touching and upbeat homage to his friend Mr. Nelson. It chugs along genially. Willie's long-time harmonica player Mickey Raphael plays on the album. Friedman operates an animal shelter and, on the album, he sings of a three-legged dog named Freedom and a stray kitten called Spitfire. He and his guitar tell stories that will make a lasting impression on listeners. At 73, the Kinkster remains an important voice.

BETTY BUCKLEY - "HOPE"
Betty Buckley, who can currently be seen on two television series -- CW's "Supergirl" and AMC's "Preacher" -- is renowned as "The Voice of Broadway." She's now in rehearsals for her starring role in the first National Tour of the Tony-winning revival of "Hello, Dolly!" But Buckley is also a powerhouse in concert. No one can surpass her, when it comes to delivering a song with maximum dramatic impact. And the versatile performer proves that once again with this, her 18th album. This live recording is filled with wonderful songs. She brings her distinctive touch to standards, but also reaches into the Americana, pop and rock realms. The album opens with an intriguing cut, "Ectopia," originally recorded in the 80s by world/jazz combo Oregon, which features Paul McCandless. From the acclaimed theater composer Jason Robert Brown comes the stirring "Hope." Buckley sings it with a radiant strength. She really cooks on the edgy rocker "Don't Take Me Alive," one of two Walter Becker/ Donald Fagen numbers here. Buckley creates musical magic with Lisa Loeb's "Falling in Love." She gives an exquisite rendition of Joni Mitchell's "Shades of Scarlett Conquering." On "Dope Island," guitarist Oz Noy contributes a tasty, twangy guitar riff that would have been right at home on any of Chris Isaac's moodier recordings. That's one of three T Bone Burnett tunes on the album (he co-wrote "My Least Favorite Life" with Rosanne Cash and Lera Lynn). Burnett produced Buckley's fine 2014 album "Ghostlight." Buckley's pianist/arranger/music director Christian Jacob offers beautifully nuanced playing on J.D. Souther's "Prisoner in Disguise," which is quite different from Linda Ronstadt's interpretation. Jacob's piano perfectly complements Buckley's deeply affecting vocal. Among the other high points are the exhilarating "I Feel Lucky" (Mary Chapin Carpenter and Don Schlitz) and a serenely lovely version of "Quiet," which was penned by Paul Simon. Buckley closes with a sensitive, emotive "Young at Heart." Throughout, Buckley's performance is extraordinary -- moving, transcendent and inspiring. She sprinkles entertaining spoken snippets into the proceedings, including an anecdote about Gilda Radner, adding to the listener's enjoyment. But it's her singing that makes Buckley so mesmerizing. Her vocalizing demonstrates true artistry. You can read PCC's interview with Betty Buckley here: http://www.popcultureclassics.com/betty_buckley.html

CLAUDIO SCOLARI, DANIELE CAVALCA & SIMONE SCOLARI - "NATURAL IMPULSE"
If you appreciate ingenious jazz, be impulsive and go get this album! This is the third album by the Italian trio comprised of Claudio Scolari (drums, percussion and synth programming), Daniele Cavalca (live synths, keyboards, piano, vibraphone, bass) and Simone Scolari (trumpet). With some telepathic sort of magic, they interact and intersect musically, exploring acoustic and electronic avenues. The music is remarkably both experimental and accessible. The album's opener, "Unknown Destination" is imbued with an appropriate sense of embarkation. A fun feeling of awe and excitement fills "American Skyscrapers," which contains rhythmically alluring vibraphone passages. Anticipation and a glimmer of wonder run through "Over the Horizon." "Chasing Inspiration" shimmers with a contemplative beauty. A playful simplicity works on "Natural Impulse," which utilizes only piano and drums. "Moon Mood" is wonderfully atmospheric with both world music and otherworldly music elements. There's a dramatic, inventive power to "Dear John." "Uptown Night Trip" is an evocative number, as is "Insomnia." The last stop on this terrific trek is "South Hemisphere," which has a vibrant sensation of awakening. With this completion, the listener will have a fulfilling consciousness of having shared a very special creative journey. Each of these original tunes, composed by Claudio Scolari and Daniele Cavalca, has carved out its own identity. The fresh, fluid album is impressive not only for its technique and daring, but for its emotional range and depth, as well.

BARRY GOLDBERG - "IN THE GROOVE"
Keyboard legend Barry Goldberg returns with his first solo record in nearly two decades. And it soulfully simmers and sizzles from start to finish. The album begins with the driving "Guess I Had Enough of You," with vocal by jazz great Les McCann (who co-wrote this smokin' number with Goldberg). The rest of the tunes are instrumentals. But Goldberg's Hammond B3 organ and Wurlitzer piano speak out loud and clear. He's backed by a bevy of outstanding musicians. They know how to get into a groove and work it. There's a great feel to the title track, "In The Groove." Goldberg reaches bluesy heights with Milt Bruckner's "Mighty Low," as well as Goldberg's "Ghosts in My Basement." The Huddie Ledbetter/Snooks Eaglin tune "Alberta" has a boogie bounce to it. "Tall Cool One" is cool indeed. Hot horn work complements Goldberg's keyboards on "The Mighty Mezz" (which Goldberg has dedicated to Mezz Mezzrow) and Doc Bagby's tune "Dumplin's." Sil Austin's "Slow Walk" has a saucy feel to it. Highlights also include the moody "Westside Girl," a rollicking rendition of The Cyclones' "Bullwhip Rock," and "Lazy," a great Johnny and the Hurricanes B-side. Astutely produced by Carla Olson, this new Goldberg album conveys the sense of fun and satisfaction the musicians must have had creating these groovy sounds! Goldberg is fondly remembered for his work with The Rides and Electric Flag, as well as collaborations with Bob Dylan, Steve Miller and, of course, the 1968 "Super Session" album with Al Kooper, Mike Bloomfield and Stephen Stills. This new work adds to his legacy.

TAMI NEILSON - "SASSAFRASS!"
If Wanda Jackson had been born 50 years later, she might well have become Tami Neilson. The New Zealand-based, Canadian-born singer-songwriter builds on rockabilly traditions, lacing them with soul and country flavors, and injecting them with a very modern, very welcome sass. There's a fiery feminist feel to this exciting album, which brings something fresh to the familiar foundations. The sultry "Smoking Gun" could be an anthem for the "Me Too" movement. The rowdy "Kitty Cat" upends stereotypes. "Bananas" good-naturedly slaps misogynists. "Manitoba Sunrise at Motel 6" is a moving ballad. Other top tracks include the defiantly delectable, brassy R&B rouser "Stay Outta My Business" and the lilting "One Thought of You," which sounds like it could be a standard. The exceptional album is not only fast-moving and fun, but thought-provoking, as well.

LYNNE ARRIALE TRIO - "GIVE US THESE DAYS"
Pianist/arranger/composer Lynne Arriale brings her own special finesse and flair to a sparkling collection of originals, as well as a pair of classic tunes. Arriale brings deep feeling to each and every note. There's a warmth and transcendence to such compositions as "Finding Home," Another Sky" and "Give UsThese Days." "Slightly Off Center" is more than slightly cool. Perfectly complementing her keyboard acumen are Jasper Somsen on double bass and Jasper Van Hulten on drums. They also bring a new dimension to Joni Mitchell's "Woodstock" and a gentle beauty to Lennon-McCartney's "Let It Be." Closing this fine album is a gorgeous rendition of the Tom Waits tune "Take It With Me, with guest Kate McGarry's exquisite vocal entwined with Arriale's pensive, poignant piano passages.

ANGELA HEWITT - "BEETHOVEN: PIANO SONATAS VOLUME 7"
For a sumptuous feast of classical piano mastery, turn to the magnificent Ms. Hewitt, who continues her exploration of Beethoven's sonatas. Displaying a full sense of the dynamics and colors the keyboard can convey, she takes the listener on a wondrous musical journey, capturing many moods. Hewitt brings out the subtleties and sensitivity, as well as the power and glory of Ludwig van's vibrant compositions. From the opening "Tempest" through "Quasi Una Fantasia," Op. 79 and the drama and loveliness of Op. 109, she discerningly and intelligently interprets these wonderful works. And she clearly pours her heart and soul into the performances. Each of these CD volumes, released on the Hyperion label, is accompanied by a booklet that offers insights into Hewitt's perspective on these pieces.

BOOKS

BUSTER KEATON IN HIS OWN TIME: WHAT THE RESPONSES OF 1920s CRITICS REVEAL
By Wes D. Gehring [McFarland; www.mcfarlandpub.com; 800-253-2187]
Many books have been written about Buster Keaton, one of the masters of silent cinema. But author Wes D. Gehring adds greatly to any in-depth discussion of the complex film artist with this new, scholarly work. It gives us a fresh perspective by exploring past critiques. As with all of Gehring's film-related books, it's remarkably well researched. In this one, Gehring delves deeply into how the film critics of Keaton's own time analyzed his films. It provides context for Keaton's creative force, noting how his contemporaries, such as Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd could be compared and contrasted. Incredibly inventive and daring, Keaton expressed absurdist, surrealist and existentialist sensibilities. Adhering to his artistic integrity, during his peak years he never pandered to the public's preferences. Keaton wasn't afraid to go dark... very dark. It was only when he finally relinquished artistic control for the supposed security of an MGM deal that he faltered. It was a tragic turn. That was in 1928. But earlier in that decade, he dreamed up and realized such masterpieces as "The General," "The Navigator," "Sherlock Jr." and "The Cameraman." Gehring gives us a far better understanding of the process and lasting comedic power of Keaton's comedic genius, clarifying why this filmmaker is so relevant today.

RIVER OF TIME: MY DESCENT INTO DEPRESSION AND HOW I EMERGED WITH HOPE
By Naomi Judd with Marcia Wilkie [Hatchette Book Group]
With courage and candor, country music legend Naomi Judd has risen to the top of the best-seller lists with "River of Time," the story of her agonizing plunge into depression. As the book opens, Judd is contemplating a suicide leap. This moment took place in 2013, after she had, for decades, been one of the most iconic figures in the music world. She had successfully overcome the life-threatening years of Hepatitis C. Yet, despite psychiatrists and medications, depression and anxiety dragged her down, the result of a lifetime filled with trauma. Judd recounts a terrifying incident when, as a toddler, she was the victim of molestation. Adding to her insecurities was a neglectful mother. A teen pregnancy and the tragic loss of her brother around that same time further tested her. She faced raising two feisty daughters on her own. Somehow, through all the challenges, Judd's inner strength, determination and resilience carried her through. But even superstardom doesn't cure all ills. Judd understands the stigma of mental illness, but also realized the good she could do by revealing the darkness that had clouded her mind for so long. The hard cover version of "River of Time" inspired many people not to give in to their own depression or panic attacks. With a paperback edition now available, Judd's moving story will touch countless new readers, allowing many of them to find new hope, as well. It will encourage them to embark on their own journeys into self-discovery.

LET YOUR LOVE FLOW: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE BELLAMY BROTHERS
By David Bellamy and Howard Bellamy with Michael Kosser [DarBella Publishing]
The Florida-born Bellamy Brothers have been successful country-pop music artists for more than 40 years. Their huge hits include "Let Your Love Flow," "Sugar Daddy," "If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body" and "Redneck Girl." This new memoir offers entertaining stores of their lives and career. There's plenty of humor, but touching moments, as well. They've had a quite a journey, from humble roots to lasting stardom. Howard and David have very different personalities and have managed to give one another a beneficial balance. The autobiography reveals the peaks and valleys, displaying the duo's admirable qualities, while not shying away from their flaws. Fans will enjoy experiencing their trek with them through these pages.

CLAIRE TREVOR: THE LIFE AND FILMS OF THE QUEEN OF NOIR
By Derek Sculthorpe [McFarland; www.mcfarlandpub.com; 800-253-2187]
Claire Trevor was a versatile actress who etched memorable performances in numerous genres, beginning in the 30s. But it was in the 40s, that she ensured her screen immortality as the Queen of Noir. She had honed her talents on stage before working her way up in film. In cowboy programmers, she was often seen as the saloon girl with the heart of gold. But Trevor always found a way to go beyond the stereotype. Occasionally, she was given the chance to shine and she ran with it, as in her brief, but unforgettable, Oscar-nominated appearance in "Dead End." She appeared in tons of B films -- including comedies, crime dramas, musicals and even Shirley Temple vehicles -- before lifting her career to another level with her work opposite John Wayne in John Ford's 1939 classic "Stagecoach." Talented and attractive, with a husky voice and riveting eyes, Trevor could make an indelible impression. And her appealing personality made her popular with peers, as well as moviegoers. As the quintessential femme fatale in the realm of noir, Trevor enhanced such great films as "Murder, My Sweet," "Johnny Angel," "Crack-Up," "Born to Kill" and "Raw Deal." For her moving performance as an alcoholic former nightclub singer in 1948's "Key Largo," Trevor won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She was nominated again in 1954 for "The High and The Mighty." Author Sculthorpe gives us details on her films, including plot summations, production information and tidbits about the other actors and directors with whom she worked. Sculthorpe includes info on roles Trevor was up for and films she was attached to that never went into production. He even provides interesting Trevor quotes on such legends as Duke Wayne, Clark Gable and Ronald Colman. He also details her diverse television appearances, which include her Emmy-winning performance in "Dodsworth," opposite Fredric March. In every screen appearance, Trevor was convincing and compelling, often bringing more complexity to the role than was on the page. Though she doesn't get the same amount of attention (and never really sought it), Trevor deserves to be ranked among the elite actresses of her era, alongside stars like Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. She may not have been as showy a performer, but she gave countless memorable portrayals. Sculthorpe's well researched, informative biography should help to cement her deserved lofty place in cinema history.