what is everybody listening to right now

David Gray - White Ladder

As to the Chris Cornell solo recording cited by "Emily," I seem to recall reading somewhere that he was exploring/taking particular pains in an effort to produce a recording of exceptional sound quality. I haven't heard "Euphoric Morning," but I am curious as to whether there is anything special going on there---production-wise. I like rock and in my younger days that was pretty much all that I listened to. But rarely do I come across any new material that is truly well-produced, i.e., that sounds really good when played back on a quality sound system. Currently in heavy rotation are: Al DiMeola - "Orange and Blue," & "Kiss My Axe" (somewhat oldies but exceptional goodies). Elianne Elias - "Plays Jobim" & "Everything I Love," McCoy Tyner "with Stanley Clarke and Al Foster" - this Telarc DSD CD release is the absolute tops in production quality among all my recent acquisitions. Gives you that you-are-there/musicians are in-your room kind of experience. Lyle Mays - "Solo Improvisations for Expanded Piano."

Lately I've been frequently revisiting Ray Charles and Cleo Laine's fantastic collaboration on "Porgy and Bess". Also digging Bill Evans on "Waltz for Debby" (live at the Village Vanguard). Those are LPs. On CD, I've been listening to Ruben Gonzalez' CD (the terrific pianist from Buena Vista Social Club fame). Waiting for rotation time is Rickie Lee Jones' new CD -- I want to be able to devote my attention to it. Also, recently I've spun George Clinton's "Hey Man, Smell My Finger." It's not in heavy rotation -- I just love seeing the title of that CD!

Last couple of days bought couple of new CD's which are now heavy rotation, With KID A still thrown in. ' Riding with the King' By Eric clapton and B.B.king and Joni Mitchell's ' Both sides now'. Both very good CD'S with sound quality and musicall qual quite up there like Sterephile 4.5 stars. Joni Mitchell almost sounds like one of earlier James Bond movie theme. Her Voice is ceratinly endearing eventhough rough around the edges. While Riding with the King a perfect Uplifting Blues CD. Both highly recommended.

I am doing a lot of listening to Dave Weckl Band and Charlie Hunter. In case you are not familier with them, Weckl is an excellent jazz drummer and Hunter plays 8 string jazz guitar. 3 bass strings and 5 lead strings on the same guitar. He is incredible. You would swear there was a lead and a bass guitarist playing. Check him out!