Back in stock: Blues

Review: The 7" from Third Man Records features two previously-unreleased takes of the song 'Blind Willie McTell' with the a-side being totally exclusive to this Record Store Day Special. The b-side will also, in time, be included on Springtime In New York: The Bootleg Series, Vol. 16 (1980-1985). Session musicians Mark Knopfler, Mick Taylor, Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare all play on the tune which was the first one worked on during the Infidels album sessions. Bob Dylan's voice is at its whiny and idiosyncratic best here as his harmonica rings out, rolling drums set a slightly country-sousing groove and electric guitars flesh out the track.

Review: Swan Songs: The Singles 1976-1981 is an impressive 29-track collection that encapsulates Dave Edmunds' dynamic years on Swan Song Records, presented in a double-LP format. Launched by Robert Plant and the members of Led Zeppelin, the label welcomed Edmunds, whose retro rock revival style resonated with Plant's own musical inclinations. This compilation highlights every A and B-side from Edmunds' tenure, starting with the chart-topping 'Here Comes The Weekend', co-written with Nick Lowe. The tracks provide a nostalgic journey through a golden era of music with a blend of classic influencesifrom Chuck Berry to Rodgers & Hartiinfused with Edmunds' distinct sound. Listeners will find familiar gems, including 'Bad Is Bad' and 'Queen Of Hearts,' which were later popularized by Huey Lewis & The News and Juice Newton, respectively. With fresh mastering by Grammy-winner Michael Graves, this collection not only preserves the authenticity of the original recordings but also celebrates Edmunds' unique artistry. The packaging includes cherished picture sleeves and insightful liner notes as well making this package extra special.

Review: Emahoy Tsegue-Maryam Guebrou is an Ethiopian nun known for her unique solo piano playing. For three decades she lived a reclusive life with only rare performances, including one at the Jewish Community Center in Washington, D.C. in 2008. Featured here are recordings sourced from the '60s of her truly captivating performances and are deservedly reissued by the Portland, Oregon based Mississippi/Little Axe Records. Featured here are all original compositions available for the first time on vinyl beyond the original early editions, said to be near impossible to find.

Review: In October 1999, the Black Crowes performed with Led Zeppelin's legendary guitarist Jimmy Page in New York, Los Angeles and Worcester, leading to the live album Live at the Greek on TVT Records. However, due to contractual issues with Columbia, the album omitted Crowes' songs performed with Page. This collaboration sparked a summer 2000 tour with Page and The Who, highlighted by a standout show on July 10, 2000, at Jones Beach Theatre in Wantagh, New York. Featuring sixteen Led Zeppelin classics, Black Crowes tracks, and blues covers, this FM broadcast recording is a must-have for fans of these rock legends.

Review: Dark Horse Records has put together this limited edition pressing of Nina Simone's seminal debut studio album, Little Girl Blue, in honour of its 65th anniversary. Originally released in February 1959, this special pink vinyl reissue features a 12x12 insert with an introduction by Dhani Harrison and of course the record itself includes many an iconic track. Take your pick from the likes of 'My Baby Just Cares for Me' and 'I Loves You, Porgy' which showcase Simone's early brilliance and hint at her profound influence on music in the decades to come. This collector's item is a tribute to Simone's timeless sound.