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Robert Plant, Soulfood,
Peter Martin
InTune: CD Reviews | by Anthony J. W. Benson
Mighty Rearranger, by Robert Plant and the Strange Sensation [www.robertplant.com]
Once the mighty voice of rock legend Led Zeppelin, Robert Plant continues to make
vital music. From the late '60s to the beginning of the 21st century, Plant has always
been a somewhat elusive, beguiling and mystical figure, who has maintained his unique
voice, literally and creatively, to represent his eclectic musical vision. On his
new CD, Mighty Rearranger, Plant packs some the sonic muscle of old, along with Middle
Eastern textures that have captivated his attention for so many years. The feeling
of otherworldliness that slithers through this recording is a perfect counterpoint
to the exuberant raw power that his talented new band, the Strange Sensation, radiates.
Songs such as "All the King's Horses," "The Enchanter" and the
brilliant "Shine it All Around" are intriguing, lyrically engaging and
well produced. Aging gracefully at age 56, Plant is showing the younglings of the
world how it's done. Mighty Rearranger is a latter day career peak for Plant. On
"Shine It All Around," he sings, "These are the days of my life/ Bright,
strong and golden." It will be exciting to see and hear how much further he
can climb. Highly recommended.
Guitar Meditations Vol. II, by Soulfood, featuring Billy McLaughlin [www.soulfoodmusic.com]
Guitar Meditations Vol. II follows the acclaimed musical formula and successful footsteps
of its best-selling predecessor, Guitar Meditations. Yet, on this engaging outing,
the sound is more expansive and fully realized. Joining the original team of guitarist
extraordinaire Billy McLaughlin and Soulfood are mastermind DJ Free, keyboardist
Peter Schimke and guitarists Dan Schwartz and Ron Cohen (Emmy® Winning composer
of Ra Music fame), who collectively create a very special recording. Brimming with
tranquil and meditative songs such as "Into the Light," "Endless World"
and "Looking for the Good," Guitar Meditations Vol.II supplies the welcomed
and peaceful soundscape your ears desire.
In the P.M., by Peter Martin [www.maxjazz.com]
Respected Jazz label Maxx Jazz has high musical standards that are reflected in its
continual release of superior product, showcasing today's hottest jazz talent. Peter
Martin is a gifted musician whose well-developed piano skills are amply displayed
on his welcomed second release for MaxJazz, In the P.M. His fellow musicians are
a wonder to behold, with Ruben Rogers' impassioned bass playing supple and pure,
and drummer Greg Hutchison's prestigious talent and authoritative presence is evident
throughout, especially on the enticing opening track "Never Let Me Go."
Highlights include creative interpretations of Stevie Wonder's classic "If It's
Magic," Cole Porter's "You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To" (complemented
with a stylish guest vocal by Erin Bode), and Peter Martin's own well-crafted composition
"The Answer." There is a driving force that propels the music of this impressive
recording ever forward, and its sonic propulsion is gratefully never ambling or hurried.
That force is Peter Martin, and his remarkable CD In the P.M. is perfect anytime.
Please send all CDs and DVDs for review to: Anthony J.W. Benson, c/o InTune, P.O.
Box 1152, Longmont, CO 80502. Submitting product does not guarantee review. All submissions
will not be returned.
Anthony J.W. Benson is the founder of injoi Music, a unique forum for artistic
and creative development. His 29-year career in the entertainment industry has encompassed
varied horizons, from artist management and production to involvement with international
multi-media events and concerts. Anthony served as the director of A&R for the
respected record label Tambourine Inc. He is available on a select basis for consultations
and welcomes new projects. He may be reached at: anthony@injoi.com
Copyright © 2005 Anthony J.W. Benson. All rights reserved.
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