Record Reviews

BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ NEW BLOOD WOUNDED BIRD 1780 (Barcode: 664140178021) ~ USA ~ Brass Rock Recorded: 1972 Released: 2005 5th album by US Jazz-Rock icons Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, which marks the departure of lead singer David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist (replaced by Jerry FisherFind albums by this artist) and a period of frequent personnel changes in the group. In spite of the negative (to say the least) critics and dwindling sales, BS&T were till a superb group, which was completely unparalleled in their ability to mix rock rhythms with intricate jazzy arrangements and deliver time after time some uplifting and spirited performances. Fisher handles the vocals very well and although his vocal abilities lack the magic of David’s timbre, he handles the songs with taste and feeling. Swedish guitarist Georg WadeniusFind albums by this artist adds a rockier dimension and the brass players kick ass as usual. Call me a sucker, but I just love this stuff. Since ColumbiaFind albums on this label lacked the brains (and balls) to reissue this stuff, I am grateful to Wounded BirdFind albums on this label for bringing this superb music back to life and circulation. It has not dated a bit and still gives me the thrills, and I hope others can rejoice as well.

Updated: 18/04/2020Posted:

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS? OMNIVORE 518 (Barcode: 810075112894) ~ USA ~ Brass Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2023 This is an absolutely sensational live archive album by the iconic American Brass Rock / Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded in June / July 1970 during their Eastern European tour behind the Iron Curtain, organized and sponsored by the State Department, which included shows in Zagreb, Yugoslavia / Bucharest, Romania and Warsaw, Poland. The shows were filmed and recorded for a documentary, and remained lost for over fifty years, finally to be re-discovered and now released This CD is the soundtrack of the documentary. The album presents ten tracks, most of which were recorded during the final concert in Warsaw. The material originates mostly from the second, eponymous BS&T album from 1968 and the debut album “Child Is Father To The ManFind albums with this title” from 1967. The lineup includes vocalist David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Lew SoloffFind albums by this artist and Chuck WinfieldFind albums by this artist, trombonist Jerry HymanFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Fred LipsiusFind albums by this artist, keyboardist / trombonist Dick HalliganFind albums by this artist, guitarist Steve KatzFind albums by this artist, bassist Jim FielderFind albums by this artist and drummer Bobby ColombyFind albums by this artist. The sound quality and the music are absolutely stellar and every second of this album is absolutely sensational. The strength of the material, the arrangements and the virtuosic performances are some of the best musical moments ever caught on tape. Despite the fact that this music was recorded fifty-three years ago, it easily swipes away almost anything recorded since, and remains completely unique. This version of BS&T was a one-time collection of completely compatible musicians, which together were able to produce an incredibly intelligent, sophisticated and everlasting music. Overall, as far as archival albums are concerned, this is probably the best one in a decade, if not two. They don’t make music like this today or even anything remotely close to it, and listening to this album proves how deeply in trouble we are today with today’s music and Culture in general. I can’t imagine any serious music lover not having this Masterpiece in their collection, can you?

Updated: 11/05/2023Posted: 11/05/2023

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

CHASE ~ CHASE / ENNEA / PURE MUSIC BGO 842 (Barcode: 5017261208422) ~ USA ~ Brass Rock Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2008 The US Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble ChaseFind albums by this artist is perhaps the least known among its contemporaries like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, ChicagoFind albums by this artist or even FlockFind albums by this artist, but I personally loved them very much and kept them in my memories all these years. It is therefore a joyful occasion to see their complete recording legacy being reissued and available again. Led by brilliant trumpeter Bill ChaseFind albums by this artist, who came to fame as the lead trumpet in Woody HermanFind albums by this artist´s HerdFind albums by this artist, known to deliver some of the strongest high notes ever played on this instrument, and who also played with other orchestras led by such famous leaders like Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist and Stan KentonFind albums by this artist. By the late 1960s Bill Chase became somewhat bored by playing Big Band scores and decided to plunge full steam ahead into the invigorating world of Jazz-Rock Fusion. He collected a group of young but highly experienced young players, who shared his vision, creating the nine-piece band Chase. Signed with EpicFind albums on this label, the band recorded 3 brilliant albums, included here, before Bill Chase and three other members of the band tragically perished in a plane crash, putting an end to one of the most promising bands of the time. Chase included a four-trumpet front line, backed by a rocky rhythm section (keyboards, guitar, bass & drums) and a lead singer (Terry RichardsFind albums by this artist, who has a voice quite similar to David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist). This unique lineup brings together the better of the two worlds – Jazz and Rock – creating a superb mixture, which only very few contenders seemed to possess. Most of the material is composed by Bill Chase, with a few classic songs getting a fresh arrangement. All three albums are equally brilliant, with the last one being the most mature and richly orchestrated, with expanded improvised solos and mostly instrumental. Bill Chase delivers several of his high-pitched solos, which leave the listener completely breathless. All in all listening to these albums in a row is an exhilarating experience, hitting right where it counts! This music aged extremely well and today, some 35 years after it was recorded, is still some of the best stuff you can let into your ears – absolutely essential!

Updated: 18/04/2020Posted:

CD 2 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ A BLUES FOR THE NEW WORLD ANTOINETTE 680889031328 (Barcode: 680889031328) ~ CANADA ~ Brass Rock Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: keyboardists Lou PomantiFind albums by this artist and Rob GusevsFind albums by this artist, guitarists Bernie LeBargeFind albums by this artist and Peter MuellerFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul LeLongFind albums by this artist and others, and featuring a brass section, which manages to create a sound ambience very close to the original sound of BS&T. The album presents thirteen original songs, all by Clayton-Thomas. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the ninth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The songs present the diverse musical spectrum and although mostly soaked in Blues, include also Soul, Rock and other elements. Clayton-Thomas revisits his Blues roots and his songwriting is strong as ever. He sings brilliantly and with a great feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish with the classic Brass Rock sound being as exciting as it can get, never failing to create the atmosphere the many fans of the genre enjoy! After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 12/08/2020

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ AURORA JUSTIN TIME 211 (Barcode: 068944021123) ~ CANADA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: keyboardist Doug RileyFind albums by this artist, who also produced the album, guitarists Rob PiltchFind albums by this artist and Jake LangleyFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist and drummer Terry ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve songs, three originals by Clayton Thomas and the rest mostly classic Jazz standards except for one Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist song, all superbly arranged for the intimate Jazzy climate this album offers. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the fourth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album is a tribute to the Jazz balladry and is a reminder of his work at small Jazz clubs, being his first recording in an intimate Jazz quartet setting. He shows that he is able to feel perfectly comfortable in this idiom, proving again his remarkable diversity. The songs are beautifully played by the quartet and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish. These are undoubtedly some of the fines songs ever written and sung by Clayton-Thomas they prove how eternal and lasting they are, losing nothing of their original power and beauty. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 23/08/2020Posted: 23/08/2020

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ BLOODLINES DCT 2000 (Barcode: 660355351228) ~ CANADA ~ Brass Rock Recorded: 1998 Released: 1999 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a huge team of over two dozen musicians, including some BS&T cohorts: trumpeters Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist, Lew SoloffFind albums by this artist and Tony KlatkaFind albums by this artist, trombonist Dave BargeronFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Fred LipsiusFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mike SternFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary FooteFind albums by this artist, drummer Brian DelaneyFind albums by this artist and many others. The album presents twelve songs, all of which were written by Clayton-Thomas. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the second of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album is the closest in style and sound to the album recorded with BS&T. The songs are beautifully arranged in the Brass Rock style and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb instrumental performances from start to finish. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride. My copy is autographed and includes a ticket stub from the concert where he signed the album. Overall, this is an absolutely sublime example of David Clayton-Thomas as a vocalist and songwriter, one of the greatest talents to emerge on the American (well Canadian) scene in all time. Absolutely classic and indispensable in every collection of his recordings, but admittedly very difficult to find.

Updated: 08/06/2023Posted: 08/06/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ BLUE PLATE SPECIAL NOT ON LABEL 196 ~ CANADA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996 This is a live in the studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded after an almost decade long pause following his previous solo album "ClaytonFind albums with this title". He is accompanied by a bunch of great players, including guitarists Larry DeBariFind albums by this artist and Andy AledortFind albums by this artist, organist Doug RileyFind albums by this artist, pianists Matt KingFind albums by this artist and Glenn McClellandFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Rob PaparozziFind albums by this artist, bassist Mike DuClosFind albums by this artist, drummer Jonathan PeretzFind albums by this artist, percussionist Mark QuinonesFind albums by this artist and a four player strong brass section. The album presents ten songs, for of which are originals by Clayton-Thomas and the rest are mostly Blues classics by Albert CollinsFind albums by this artist, Willie DixonFind albums by this artist, Albert KingFind albums by this artist and others. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the first of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album is a wonderful opportunity for Clayton-Thomas to revisit his Blues roots, which he does singing brilliantly and with a great feeling. His idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish, especially guitar and organ work. This is a classic Blues-Rock environment, which in the hands of capable musicians like these ones never fails to create the atmosphere the many fans of the genre enjoy! After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to return to this album after not listening to it for over 20 years – it is as fresh as it sounded when I heard it for the first time!

Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 08/08/2020

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ CANADIANA ANTOINETTE 039911033821 (Barcode: 039911033821) ~ CANADA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: keyboardist Lou PomantiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Eric St-LaurentFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist, drummer Ben WittmanFind albums by this artist and others, and featuring brass section and string section on selected tracks. The album presents thirteen songs, all by Canadian songwriters, as diverse as Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist, Gordon LightfootFind albums by this artist and others and one original song by Clayton-Thomas. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the eleventh of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album is a tribute to the Canadian contribution to Pop / Rock songwriting, which is obviously very significant artistically. The songs are beautifully arranged and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 12/08/2020

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ COMBO ANTOINETTE 0001 (Barcode: 061297459018) ~ CANADA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015 This is an album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist. Coming back to his early days in the Jazz clubs of his native Toronto, before he moved to NY, he returns to his musical roots of Blues and Jazz. He is accompanied by a combo, which includes pianist Mark KieswetterFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist, drummer Ben RileyFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Coleen AllenFind albums by this artist and guitarist Ted QuinlanFind albums by this artist. Female guest singers are featured on two stacks. The material comprises of Blues, Soul and Jazz standards. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the tenth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. Despite his age (he was 73 when this music was recorded) Clayton-Thomas is still a remarkable singer, who lost nothing of his ability to interpret songs in his very unique way and to express his feelings with the same intensity he was able to when he was in his twenties. The choice of material is obviously less demanding than what he was up against when fronting BS&T, but his performances are every bit as heartwrenching. Blessed by one of the most idiosyncratic voices in music history from the 1960s on, Clayton-Thomas is a phenomenon, way beyond simple nostalgic memories. It is wonderful to hear one of the heroes of my youth still alive and kicking, with Artistry that is able to keep him ahead of most of the contemporary vocalists, leaving a cloud of dust behind. For listeners who love true Jazz / Blues vocals, a bit "old school" perhaps but still vibrant and unique, this album is an absolute must. Unadulterated pleasure from start to finish!

Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 20/06/2020

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS REPERTOIRE 2300 (Barcode: 4009910230022) ~ CANADA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 2006 1st album by Canadian vocalist David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, famous for his role as lead singer of the great American Jazz-Rock pioneers Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist. Clayton-Thomas left Blood, Sweat & Tears in 1971 to pursue solo career, of which the recording of this album was the first step. Three albums later, he returned to front and lead Blood, Sweat & Tears from 1975 on, touring and occasionally recording with them as well as recording solo albums in the decades since. In many respects this debut solo album was a continuation of the work Clayton-Thomas did with Blood, Seat & Tears, utilizing his superb vocal powers to express his sensitive delivery to the max. The album includes an excellent selection of beautiful songs, both ballads and up-tempo numbers, all tastefully arranged with orchestral and brass sections comprising of the best available studio musicians and sung brilliantly. For me Clayton-Thomas always possessed one of the most distinct and magnificent voices ever and I could never get enough of his singing, although some critics have often ridiculed him cruelly – well as usual, most critics are completely deaf anyway. For people who love Blood, Sweat & Tears this is an absolute must, others might perhaps discover a gem they have been missing in their life? Wholeheartedly recommended!

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS / TEQUILA SUNRISE / DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS BGO 1424 (Barcode: 5017261214249) ~ CANADA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2020 This is a reissue of the first three solo albums by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist primarily known as the frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist. Although purist might contest that Clayton-Thomas made some recordings in Canada in 1965 and 1966, before joining BS&T, these were done with his early ensembles and were not solo albums, but were partly released in 1969 under his name, after his popularity soared due to the success of BS&T, but should not be considered as part of his solo career. The first eponymous album was recorded in late 1971 / early 1972 and released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label later that year. It presents ten songs, only two of which were written by Clayton-Thomas. The music was superbly arranged and included string and brass section and some top Jazz and studio musicians. The material spanned Blues, Soul and Rhythm And Blues, with the usual heartfelt vocals, which are amongst the finest ever on the Rock scene. The next album was recorded and released by the end of the same year (1972), also by Columbia. It was recorded by a much tighter ensemble of excellent instrumentalists and offers a Funky / Soul oriented feel. It presents eleven songs (one repeated twice) most of which are written by Clayton-Thomas. The third album, which was also eponymous but is often referred also as "Harmony Junction" to avoid confusion, was recorded and released the following year (1973) by RCAFind albums on this label. It features a similar team of musicians as the second album and presents ten songs, three of which are written by Clayton-Thomas. All three albums were excellently remastered and the third album is released here on CD for the first time. This set offers one bonus track, one side of a 1983 single. For me Clayton-Thomas always possessed one of the most distinct and magnificent voices ever and I could never get enough of his singing, although some critics have often ridiculed him cruelly – well as usual, most critics are completely deaf anyway. For people who love Blood, Sweat & Tears this is an absolute must, others might perhaps discover a gem they have been missing in their life? Wholeheartedly recommended! And of course five decades later David Clayton-Thomas is still recording albums and singing as magnificently as always!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 10/09/2020

CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ IN CONCERT: A MUSICAL BIOGRAPHY JUSTIN TIME 219 (Barcode: 068944021925) ~ CANADA ~ Brass Rock Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006 This is a live recording by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist. Recorded at the Toronto´s Opera House and supported by a superb eleven-piece band the sound and ambience recreates the heydays of his work with BS&T. The album presents twelve songs, some going many years back and other newer, most written by him, spanning his entire incredible career as performer and songwriter. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the fifth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. Born in 1941, Clayton-Thomas was sixty-four years old when this concert was recorded, but he sounds every bit as vibrant, powerful and energetic as I remember him from decades earlier, and his husky voice was every bit as enchanting as ever. The carefully selected material presents him as a diverse vocalist able to handle Blues, Rock and Jazzy vocalese with the same ease and elegance. The instrumental arrangements are truly refined and the band supports the vocals beautifully, creating a superb musical experience for the listener. Keyboardist Doug RileyFind albums by this artist, guitarist Bernie LaBargeFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul DeLongFind albums by this artist and percussionist Waleed AbdulhamidFind albums by this artist and the six-piece brass section work splendidly together and offer thrilling soli on the way. Overall this is one ass-kicking piece of first rate performance, which only a very few artists are capable of delivering, and one of the strongest live albums I have heard in years. I can´t imagine any Brass Rock, BS&T and David Clayton-Thomas fan not having this album in their collection, but no less importantly younger listeners should listen to this in order to understand what music is all about. Thank you David for this unadulterated piece of fun. God bless and remember that age is just a state of mind!

Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 27/06/2020

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ MOBIUS ANTOINETTE 549 (Barcode: 039911054925) ~ CANADA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: keyboardist Lou PomantiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Eric St-LaurentFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist (who also co-produced the album), drummer Larnell LewisFind albums by this artist and others including a small brass section. The album presents ten songs, all featuring lyrics by Clayton-Thomas and five also composed by him, two by Pomanti and one each by St-Laurent, Lewis and Koller. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the twelfth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album emphasizes Clayton-Thomas songwriting abilities, which are still remarkable, as much as his stamina and performing abilities despite his advanced age. The songs are beautifully arranged and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 26/09/2020Posted: 26/09/2020

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ SAY SOMETHIN` ANTOINETTE 270427 (Barcode: 803057042722) ~ CANADA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 Fifty years after he first became an international star, Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, releases another solo album, proving not only that he is alive and kicking (literally), but also confirming his status as a sublime singer and lyricist. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the thirteenth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. This album finds him in a strict Blues-Rock setting, accompanied by a quartet comprising of keyboardist Lou PomantiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Eric St LaurentFind albums by this artist, bassist Marc RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Davide Di RenzoFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original songs, composed four each by St Laurent and Pomanti, one by Di Renzo and one by Canadian bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist, all featuring lyrics by Clayton-Thomas. The music is Blues soaked, and offers an excellent collection of melodies, but as the album´s title suggests, the main point of the album is a collection of bitter, painful and brutally expressive messages about politics, morality and other issues plaguing our contemporary society, mostly directed toward Canada´s southern neighbor. It is great to see (and hear) that Artists still have opinions, that they care and are able to think straight, exactly as it used to be when Clayton-Thomas was starting his career. Music used to be an anthem of social revolution and change, before it turned into moronic void. Of course probably no one these days really believes any more that music or Art (or philosophy or human creativity) can really change anything. We have turned into a gray mass of mindless zombies, beyond salvation. Overall this is a great album, which is both a great fun musically and a carrier of a message for those who are ready to hear. Well done David and God bless for trying - age is just a state of mind!

Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 23/06/2020

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ SOUL BALLADS ANTOINNETTE 776974318914 (Barcode: 776974318914) ~ CANADA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: keyboardist Lou PomantiFind albums by this artist, who also arranged all the music, guitarists Bernie LaBargeFind albums by this artist and Jake LangleyFind albums by this artist, bassists Scott AlexanderFind albums by this artist, George KollerFind albums by this artist and Rich BrownFind albums by this artist, drummers Larnell LewisFind albums by this artist and Mark KelsoFind albums by this artist, and featuring brass and string sections. The album presents twelve songs, all of which are classic Soul ballads written at the heyday of American Soul music mostly in the 1960s, originally sung by such great artists as Otis ReddingFind albums by this artist, Sam CookeFind albums by this artist, Curtis MayfieldFind albums by this artist and others. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the eighth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album is a tribute to the Soul balladry, which inspired him "to become a singer", as he states in the album´s liner notes. The songs are beautifully arranged by Lou Pomanti and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish. These are undoubtedly some of the fines songs ever written and sung by Clayton-Thomas they prove how eternal and lasting they are, losing nothing of their original power and beauty. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 21/08/2020Posted: 21/08/2020

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ SPECTRUM NOT ON LABEL ~ CANADA ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: guitarists Rob PiltchFind albums by this artist, Aidan MasonFind albums by this artist and Ted QuinlanFind albums by this artist, bassists George KollerFind albums by this artist and Rich BrownFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul DeLongFind albums by this artist and others including a full brass section. The album presents ten songs, seven of which are originals by Clayton-Thomas and the rest are standards. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the seventh of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album emphasizes Clayton-Thomas songwriting abilities, which are still remarkable, as much as his stamina and performing abilities despite his advanced age. The songs are beautifully arranged partly in the Brass Rock style and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 13/01/2021Posted: 13/01/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ THE CHRISTMAS ALBUM FONTANA NORTH 122003 (Barcode: 620673331524) ~ CANADA ~ Xmas Jazz Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: guitarists Gil ParrisFind albums by this artist, Jamie FoxFind albums by this artist and Gregg SullivanFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary FooteFind albums by this artist, drummer Brian DelaneyFind albums by this artist and others including a full brass section. The album presents fourteen Christmas songs in jazzy arrangements, none of which were written by Clayton-Thomas, but several are lesser known and rarely performed within that sub-genre. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the third of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album emphasizes Clayton-Thomas stamina and performing abilities despite his advanced age. The songs are beautifully arranged partly in the Brass Rock style and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb instrumental performances from start to finish. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 04/06/2021Posted: 04/06/2021

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DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ THE EVERGREENS FONTANA NORTH (Barcode: 620673318822) ~ CANADA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008 This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: keyboardist and arranger Doug RileyFind albums by this artist (a long time collaborator who died before the album was completed and to whom the album is dedicated), guitarist Bernie LaBargeFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul DeLongFind albums by this artist and others including a brass section. The album presents thirteen songs, all originals by Clayton-Thomas (a tongue-in-cheek in reference to the album´s title). The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the sixth of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album emphasizes Clayton-Thomas songwriting abilities, which are still remarkable, as much as his stamina and performing abilities despite his advanced age. The songs are beautifully arranged partly in the Brass Rock style and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish. After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.

Updated: 28/09/2020Posted: 28/09/2020

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend