The '70s (TV Soundtrack)
Reliving the 1970s has been a lot more fun than living through them. Who remembers the threat of presidential impeachment? Rising gas prices? Hey, wait a minute! This collection of memories from that maligned decade sounds pretty good, even if a bit obvious.
Sting: Brand New Day
There is a difference between being an inspired musician and an informed musician. Sting is the latter. As always, he surrounds himself with ultratalented artists: this time around Stevie Wonder, Branford Marsalis, James Taylor, guitarist Dominic Miller, and the prince of rai Cheb Mami, fill the roster.
Neil Young: Silver & Gold
Once prone to straying all over the map, Neil Young has contented himself of late alternating between country squire and convulsive rocker. Silver & Gold is an exquisite addition to Young's pastoral offerings.
Appalachian Journey / Ma, Meyer, O'Connor, Taylor, Krauss
With the help of some friends (James Taylor and Alison Krauss lend some vocal support), the trio of Yo-Yo Ma, Edgar Meyer, and Mark O'Connor have created yet another fascinating hybrid of chamber music and bluegrass.