This week on Radar, more great new music, and new to you music. ’90s power-pop kingmeister (a word that I apparently just invented), Matthew Sweet has a new album out on Omnivore titled, Catspaw. You’ll hear more of it in the next few weeks, but on this episode we begin at the beginning with the track, “Blown Away” which—if you love Matthew Sweet—is what you’ll want to hear.
Billie Joe Armstrong (that guy from Green Day) released his first ever solo album and it was the result of lockdown days. It’s a gallop and a romp through some of his favorite songs and – well, you’ll just have to tune in to see what classic song gets the Armstrong-treatment. The album on Reprise Records is titled No Fun Mondays because he apparently posted a new song each Monday during the pandemic.
Bobby Watson’s new album Keepin’ it Real (Smoke Sessions Records) does just that and also succeeds in imbuing strong, infectious melody in his compositions. Love him for his great sax jazz chops, admire him because of his longtime dedication to educating in the field of music.
You’ll also hear something new from the Avalanches and The Bee Gees, too! Have you been watching the HBO documentary? I haven’t finished it, but so far, so good. You’ll also enjoy music from two forthcoming interview subjects: A.J. Croce and Jim Keller who both have terrific new albums out.
The Kinks have a sprawling new reissue out in Lola Versus Powerman And The Moneygoround Part One (BMG). There’s a lot of new music on this reissue, but it—of course—doesn’t stop me from playing my favorite regular album cut. Also, on the reissue front, The Black Crowes will release the 30th anniversary reissue of their Shake Your Money Maker album, and on this episode you’ll get to hear the song that they originally intended to be their breakout single, but instead was shelved.
There’s more of course, but you’ll have to tune in to hear it. So, what are you waiting for? Click play!
Evan Toth is a songwriter, professional musician, educator, radio host, avid record collector and hi-fi aficionado. Toth hosts and produces The Sharp Notes each Saturday evening at 6pm and TVD Radar on Sundays at 5AM on WFDU, 89.1 FM. Follow him at the usual social media places and visit his website.
