Steve Lukather- Bridges – I was chatting with Steve Lukather about his latest solo albumwhen he said, “Look, I know what you are going to ask: If David Paich and Joseph Williams are both heavily involved with Bridges, why is this not a Toto album?”

I laughed at his remark, explaining that wasn’t my question. Bridges sounds like a Steve Lukather album to me. Many Toto members, past to present, appear but Lukather’s stamp is unmistakable.

 “When I See You Again,” has driving rhythms (featuring Simon Phillips on drums), urgent vocals and slashing guitars. Combining the directness of his earlier solo work and the melodic flair of Toto, “When I See You Again” represents the work of an iconic legacy artist not willing to rest on his laurels.

“Burning Bridges,” written with Stan Lynch, David Paich and Joseph Williams, is a bluesy falling shuffle with prominent Fender Rhodes and touches of organ and synth. Simon Phillips returns on a song that would have been a good fit on any Lukather solo album. Despite the inclusion of Paich and Willaims on keyboards and vocals, the music sounds more like Los Lobotomys than it does Mindfields.

It’s not Toto yet Lukather delivers some of his best music in years. 

Cidny Bullens: Little Pieces 

Cidny Bullens’ new album Little Pieces is a musical gem that beautifully intertwines with the narrative from his autobiography, TransElectric: My Life as a Cosmic Rock Star. This album is a captivating journey filled with heartfelt lyrics and incredible melodies.

“Healing the Break” is a poignant ballad that touches the soul with its heartfelt lyrics and emotional delivery. “The Gender Line,” also the name of Cidny Bullen’s short documentary, features Rodney Crowell. This standout track not only highlights Bullens’ musical talents but also delivers a powerful message about identity and self-acceptance. It’s a remarkable collaboration that leaves a lasting impression. 

“Little Pieces” offers a personal and moving musical experience that intertwines with the compelling narrative of TransElectric: My Life as a Cosmic Rock Star. Cidny Bullens’ artistry shines brightly in this exceptional work.

Taali- Taali 

Labeling these thirteen tracks from acclaimed singer-songwriter Taali Billig (who goes by Taali) as eclectic is a disservice. Taali, who composed all the songs, produced them with Brian Bender, and handled the vocal and string arrangements, has created a sometimes mystifying yet often stunning collection of work. The songs reflect introduction, isolation, and triumph. “Did We Die,” which sets the rollercoaster in motion, is a stark, chilling account of an honest confrontation with death. “Anywhere” tales on the leap into a new world with a nuanced and tender view. “Did We Survive” culminates Taali’s journey but raises new ones. Taali, with her crack band, paints outside the lines, which makes the album so engaging and brilliant. 

DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION – CELESTIAL SONGS (POP): A captivating musical journey that combines Geoff Downes’ rich synth work with Chris Braide’s emotive vocals. Downes Braide Association weaves intricate arrangements and thoughtful lyrics on Celestial Songs to create an immersive experience that transports listeners to a realm of sonic exploration. The tracks blend electronic elements with progressive rock sensibilities, resulting in a harmonious fusion that resonates on multiple levels. Each song seems to tell a unique story, painting a vivid picture through its melodies and harmonies. The result is a testament to the artistic synergy between Downes and Braide, offering a tapestry of sound that’s both intriguing and musically satisfying. Though not a prog album per se, these complex yet hook-rich songs, stellar players and timeless arrangements shows how the partnership between Geoff Downes and Chris Braide continues to grow with each subsequent release. Check out the “Keep On Moving” and “Clear Light,” if you don’t believe me.

DUDU TASSA AND JONNY GREENWOOD – JARAK QARIBACK (FUSION/WORLD): This collaborative album by Duda Tassa, an acclaimed Israeli artist, and Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead fame is a captivating musical journey that beautifully marries Tassa’s Middle Eastern influences with Greenwood’s experimental proclivities. The album’s fusion of traditional Arabic sounds and modern electronic elements creates a unique sonic landscape that is both mesmerizing and thought-provoking. The project was produced by Tassa and Greenwood and features soulful vocals, coupled with Greenwood’s intricate arrangements, resulting in a collection of tracks that is rich in emotion and atmosphere. The duo cast a small but diverse group of musicians and utilizes singers such as Safae Essafi on the song “Ahibak” to create an enchanting and melodic series of songs. The seamless blending of different cultural elements showcases the artists’ incredible ability to bridge gaps and create something truly extraordinary. This LP is a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration and artistic innovation, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking music that defies boundaries and embraces diversity. Check out “Djit Nishrab,” sung by Ahmed Doma; and “Lhla Yzid Ikhtar,” which features Dudu on vocals. Jarak Qaribak is a rewarding journey.

RICKIE LEE JONES – PIECES OF TREASURE (JAZZ/POP): One would think that Rickie Lee Jones would no longer stir strong emotions after almost 50 years. Instead, her current release of jazz standards conjures the same feelings that I had when I first heard her self-titled debut in the late ’70s. Granted, Jones has released a few cover projects, some brilliant (1983’s A Girl and Her Volcano) and one godawful (1991’s flaccid David Was-produced Pop Pop). But. Jones is an artist in the truest sense, and never one to ignore her muse. Reconnecting with producer Russ Titelman at New York’s Sear Sound in the summer of 2022, Jones is joined by a tight band including Rob Mounsey on piano, guitarists Russell Malone and Jon Herington, bassist David Wong and drummer Mark McLean. They provide subtle and textured support to Jones’ still unique and expressive voice. Along the way, songs like “All the Way” and “Nature Boy” take on a new life. Each is born again through Jones’ interpretation, while Titelman keeps the playing loose and breezy. Add Pieces of Treasure to the list of classic Rickie Lee Jones albums. This is 10 pieces of musical gold.

DEREK SHERINIAN AND SIMON PHILLIPS – SHERINIAN/PHILLIPS LIVE (PROG ROCK): A captivating and electrifying masterpiece that showcases the exceptional talents of Derek Sherinian on keyboards and Simon Phillips on drums, along with Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal on guitar, and Ric Fierabracci on bass. Sherinian/Phillips Live takes listeners on a thrilling musical journey filled with energy, skillful performances, and impeccable chemistry among the musicians. “The Vortex” kicks off the album with a bang, immediately grabbing your attention with its infectious melodies and mesmerizing keyboard solos by Derek Sherinian. “Inertia” follows suit, showcasing the band’s ability to seamlessly transition between different moods and tempos. Sherinian/Phillips Live reaches its peak with the epic and captivating “Aurora Australis.” Clocking in at over 11 minutes, this epic allows each musician to shine individually while maintaining a cohesive and dynamic sound. Hopefully, a full-scale tour is in the works. If not, this collection will have to serve for now.

The Rufugees – California 

Combining three stellar singer-songwriters and great classic rock songs is not a guarantee of success. Fortunately, Cidny Bullens, Deborah Holland, and Wendy Waldman know how to deliver tasty arrangements and stellar vocals. Their album-length tribute to the Golden State is a primarily acoustic affair produced by Waldman and Abraham Parker. The tender covers of classic California rock songs run the gambit from the expected (Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth”) to pleasantly surprising (Sly and the Family Stone’s “Stand”). The arrangements superbly match the Refugees’ vocal talents, as Holland and Waldman’s acoustic guitars and Bullens’ mandolin sparkle. In the end, California provides an excellent gateway to their solo and group catalogs.

ALEXIS EVANS – YOURS TRULY (SOUL): Alexis Evans’s new album is authentic and compelling neo-soul. The writer, producer and composer gathered an energized band to enliven his compact and vivid stories. Evans’ 2019 album, I’ve Come a Long Way, was a perfect sophomore effort. Yours Truly doesn’t attempt to reinvent his formula. That’s fine, as songs like “What Is This Feeling” and “Let Them Loose” are emotional, descriptive and fun. Add to this formula Evans’ powerfully soulful voice and Memphis-inspired guitar work, and you have one of the best albums of the year.

PROJEKT GEMINEYE_WHAT LIES BEYOND

Projekt Gemineye returns with “What Lies Beyond”, an album that is fully contained, not continuing the themes from the three prior releases. The brainchild of Canadian hard-rocker Mark Anthony K, the album now available on colored vinyl, takes a slight turn with a pile-driving series of epic songs.

“Cyber-Wonderland” finds K with his guitars turned up to 11. He’s continued to hone his craft, with a bass guitar has an unmistakable treble feel which counters the snarling guitars. Mark Anthony K’s vocals are out front in the mix, highlighting his future vision.

At more than 11 minutes, “I’m Free” is a fantastic roller coaster. K starts with a delicate lead vocal accompanied by nuanced finger-picked acoustic guitars. The track develops with Billy Sherwood-like melodic bass and swirling drum paradiddles before the pace picks up, and Mark Anthony K steps forward with a towering lead guitar over a mountain of switching rhythms. At this point, K shifts his vocal approach from delicate to angry.

What Lies Beyond stands among Projekt Gemineye’s best work. Get the compact disc so you can get the bonus track, or better yet, order the limited-edition colored vinyl too.

Honorable mentions:

Percy Howard- The Stars and The Well- The California based singer songwriter delivers a series of fascinating compositions with intriguing arrangements touching on rock, R&B and jazz. Special guests Vernon Reid and Matt Chamberlain add a little spice to Howard’s strong compositions and powerful vocals. The results is an album which you must seek out. 

Yes- Mirror To The Sky- More than 55 years in music but the band still progresses. What’s old is new again with 9 strong songs, lively tempos and powerful lead via Al’s from Jon Davison. Mirror to the Sky is better than Yes fans deserve. 

Janelle Monae- The Age Of Pleasure- Streamlined yet artistic and funky. Monae delivers yet another must own album.