Perfect for reminiscing on a solitary, rainy night in the city, the jazz combo backs Eliza Lumley in “Black Star” as she ascends up the scale, giving special attention to the top note, just as Radiohead’s lead singer, Thom Yorke did in his own unique way. This from singer Lumley’s brave effort, She Talks in Maths – Interpretations of Radiohead. Lumley strips down 11 songs from one of the biggest bands in the business, giving a fresh look on classics from The Bends, OK Computer, and Kid A. She Talks in Maths, however, may prove worthwhile to even those outside of the giant cult following Radiohead has earned. (more…)

You might ask why we’re reviewing an album from 2005. That would be a good question, and here’s our answer: We hope to introduce you to Tim Grimm, who will perform at a house concert in Blacksburg on Nov. 30. (more…)

The difference between Madonna and Annie Lennox is that, to maintain longevity, Madonna has to keep reinventing herself, while Annie Lennox remains relevant without having to don cowboy boots and feather her hair or update tired Abba tunes. Oh and Annie’s voice has been flawless since the Eurythmics began back in 1981, while Madonna herself makes fun of her earlier songs like “Borderline” and “Lucky Star.” (more…)

RoadRunner Records
2007

Envision this: an all-male band fronted by a pale woman with powerful operatic vocals and long dark hair, decked out in white corset-dresses, her wrists wrapped in ribbons—songs punctuated by hardcore guitars and dramatic choirs booming in the background. You’re thinking Evanescence, right? Maybe so—if they were from Holland and went by the name “Within Temptation.” Move over, Amy Lee; say hello to Sharon den Adel. (more…)

G$makr Music
2007
I’ve been criticized for liking a particular genre of rock/pop music. The general membership of this club over the years has consisted of Matchbox Twenty, Better Than Ezra, Gin Blossoms, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and myriad others. I’m putting Kill the Alarm and their new album Fire Away in that genre, and that means I like this New York City-based band. (more…)

OK, so this CD isn’t new, but it’s new to us. We recently stumbled upon local musician David Simpkins playing at the Radford Farmer’s Market and decided the guy was definitely worth checking out in more detail. (more…)