Butterboy: Tribute

Showing posts with label Tribute. Show all posts

Thursday, July 24, 2025

Golden Earring - George Kooymans Tribute [2000-2017] (9 x CDs) GEORGE KOOYMANS R.I.P.

GEORGE KOOYMANS R.I.P.

Golden Earring - George Kooymans Tribute [2000-2017] (9 x CDs)

Born on March 11, 1948, in The Hague, Netherlands, George Jan Kooymans was a founding member, guitarist, and songwriter for Golden Earring, one of Europe’s longest running and most successful rock bands. Alongside childhood friend Rinus Gerritsen, Kooymans formed the group in 1961 originally called The Tornados, later renamed The Golden Earrings, and eventually Golden Earring

Kooymans’ guitar work and songwriting were central to the band’s identity. He penned “Twilight Zone”, their biggest U.S. hit, which reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Album Tracks chart. His riffs and melodic instincts also powered classics like “Radar Love” and “When the Lady Smiles”, helping the band achieve international acclaim.

Beyond Golden Earring, Kooymans released solo albums (Jojo in 1971 and Solo in 1987) and collaborated with artists like Frank Carillo and Dutch supergroup Vreemde Kostgangers, showcasing his versatility and deep musical curiosity.

In 2021, Kooymans retired after being diagnosed with ALS, a neurodegenerative disease. Golden Earring disbanded shortly after, honoring their bond as an irreplaceable quartet. He passed away on July 22, 2025, at age 77, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, integrity, and unforgettable sound. Kooymans was known not just for his talent, but for his humility a “quiet force” who let the music speak. His influence continues to echo through rock history.

A profound loss for music, George Kooymans was the heartbeat of Golden Earring and a towering figure in Dutch rock. His songwriting, guitar work, and quiet intensity helped shape the sound of generations, from the driving pulse of "Radar Love" to the haunting narrative of "Twilight Zone." His artistry went beyond riffs, it was about mood, movement, and meaning.

Thank you, George, for the music, the memories, and the magic. Your legacy will echo forever. (B)

Included in this tribute are the following albums:

Golden Earring - The Devil Made Us Do It [2000] (4 x CDs)
Golden Earring - The Long Versions [2008] (2 x CDs)
Golden Earring - Non-Album Tracks 1-3 [2017] (3 x CDs)

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Track lists

Golden Earring - The Devil Made Us Do It [2000]

CD1

01 Golden Earring - Please Go 2:57

02 Golden Earring - That Day 2:28

03 Golden Earring - If You Leave Me 2:16

04 Golden Earring - Daddy Buy Me A Girl 2:41

05 Golden Earring - Don't Run Too Far 2:14

06 Golden Earring - In My House 3:56

07 Golden Earring - Sound of The Screaming Day 2:51

08 Golden Earring - Together We Live, Together We Love 3:09

09 Golden Earring - I've Just Lost Somebody 3:05

10 Golden Earring - Dong-Dong-Diki-Digi-Dong 3:01

11 Golden Earring - Just A Little Bit of Peace in My Heart 5:21

12 Golden Earring - Where Will I Be 3:52

13 Golden Earring - Another 45 Miles 4:45

14 Golden Earring - Back Home 3:52

15 Golden Earring - Holy Holy Life 3:57

16 Golden Earring - She Flies on Strange Wings 7:22

17 Golden Earring - Buddy Joe 3:49

18 Golden Earring - Stand By Me 4:31

19 Golden Earring - Radar Love 6:24

20 Golden Earring - Instant Poetry 4:57

CD2

01 Golden Earring - (Kill Me) Ce Soir 6:17

02 Golden Earring - Sleepwalkin' 5:01

03 Golden Earring - To The Hilt 3:06

04 Golden Earring - Bombay 3:52

05 Golden Earring - Just Like Vince Taylor 4:33

06 Golden Earring - Movin' Down Life 3:33

07 Golden Earring - Weekend Love 4:15

08 Golden Earring - I Do Rock 'n Roll 3:43

09 Golden Earring - Long Blond Animal 3:37

10 Golden Earring - No for an Answer 4:13

11 Golden Earring - Slow Down 4:45

12 Golden Earring - Twilight Zone 7:56

13 Golden Earring - The Devil Made Me Do It 3:23

14 Golden Earring - When The Lady Smiles 5:39

15 Golden Earring - Clear Nite, Moonlight 3:25

16 Golden Earring - N.E.W.S. 5:19

17 Golden Earring - Something Heavy Going Down 4:38

CD3

01 Golden Earring - Quiet Eyes 4:03

02 Golden Earring - Why Do I 4:43

03 Golden Earring - They Dance 5:08

04 Golden Earring - My Killer, My Shadow 4:07

05 Golden Earring - Turn The World Around 5:32

06 Golden Earring - Going to The Run 3:57

07 Golden Earring - Temporary Madness 3:34

08 Golden Earring - Pouring My Heart Out Again 4:01

09 Golden Earring - I Can't Sleep Without You 3:30

10 Golden Earring - Another 45 Miles 3:47

11 Golden Earring - As Long as The Wind Blows 4:32

12 Golden Earring - Hold Me Now 3:43

13 Golden Earring - Johnny Make Believe 4:44

14 Golden Earring - Angel 3:42

15 Golden Earring - This Wheel's on Fire 4:00

16 Golden Earring - Burning Stuntman 4:04

17 Golden Earring - Paradise in Distress 5:45

18 Golden Earring - Yes! We're on Fire 4:55

CD4

01 Golden Earring - Things Go Better 2:46

02 Golden Earring - She Wont't Come to Me 2:31

03 Golden Earring - It's Allright But I Admit it Could Be Better 3:42

04 Golden Earring - Day & Night (George Kooymans) 4:12

05 Golden Earring - Did You Really Mean It! (Barry Hay) 4:40

06 Golden Earring - Lucky Number 5:54

07 Golden Earring - I Need Love 6:29

08 Golden Earring - Hard Bargain (Gerritsen & Van Dijk) 3:58

09 Golden Earring - Give Me Back My Feelings 4:52

10 Golden Earring - Gimme A Break (Rock Version '86) 3:45

11 Golden Earring - The Devil Rides Again Tonight (George Kooymans) 4:25

12 Golden Earring - My Favourite Spot (Barry Hay) 6:17

13 Golden Earring - Time Warp 4:33

14 Golden Earring - Don't Stop The Show (Live Acoustic'93) 2:29

15 Golden Earring - Murdock 9 6182 (Live) 3:25

16 Golden Earring - Yellow and Blue (Live Acoustic '95) 3:09

17 Golden Earring - Try A Little Tenderness 3:54

18 Golden Earring - Miles Away From Nowhere 3:26

19 Golden Earring - Last Blast of The Century (Live) 4:40

Golden Earring - The Long Versions [2008]

CD1

01 Golden Earring - Radar Love 6:22

02 Golden Earring - Twilight Zone 7:49

03 Golden Earring - Just A Little Bit of Piece in My Heart 5:18

04 Golden Earring - Back Home (live) 5:42

05 Golden Earring - She Flies on Strange Wings 7:20

06 Golden Earring - Kill Me (Ce Soir) 6:10

07 Golden Earring - Sleepwalkin' 4:59

08 Golden Earring - Just Like Vince Taylor 4:33

09 Golden Earring - Weekend Love 4:14

10 Golden Earring - Long Blond Animal (live) 4:44

CD2

01 Golden Earring - When The Lady Smiles 5:38

02 Golden Earring - Clear Night, Moonlight (live) 5:56

03 Golden Earring - Something Heavy Going Down 4:35

04 Golden Earring - Quiet Eyes 4:06

05 Golden Earring - My Killer, My Shadow 6:09

06 Golden Earring - Turn The World Around 5:31

07 Golden Earring - Eight Miles High 18:57

Golden Earring - Non-Album Tracks 1-3 [2017]

CD1

01 Golden Earring - Chunk of Steel 2:22

02 Golden Earring - That Day 2:30

03 Golden Earring - The Words I Need 2:13

04 Golden Earring - If You Leave Me 2:17

05 Golden Earring - Waiting for You 2:26

06 Golden Earring - Things Go Better 2:47

07 Golden Earring - Rum and Coca-Cola 1:51

08 Golden Earring - Daddy Buy Me A Girl 2:42

09 Golden Earring - What You Gonna Tell 1:43

10 Golden Earring - Don't Run Too Far 2:16

11 Golden Earring - Wings 2:07

12 Golden Earring - Sound of The Screaming Day 2:53

13 Golden Earring - She Won't Come to Me 2:33

14 Golden Earring - Together We Live, Together We Love 3:09

15 Golden Earring - DongDong-Di-Ki-Di-Gi-Dong 3:02

16 Golden Earring - Wake Up - Breakfast 2:49

17 Golden Earring - Where Will I Be 3:54

18 Golden Earring - It's Allright But I Admit it Could Be Better 3:40

CD2

01 Golden Earring - Another 45 Miles 4:46

02 Golden Earring - I Can't Get A Hold on Her 6:18

03 Golden Earring - Holy Holy Life 3:56

04 Golden Earring - Jessica 4:35

05 Golden Earring - Stand By Me 4:32

06 Golden Earring - The Song is Over 4:55

07 Golden Earring - Instant Poetry 4:57

08 Golden Earring - Lucky Number 5:55

09 Golden Earring - Babylon 4:16

10 Golden Earring - I Need Love 6:29

11 Golden Earring - Can't Talk Now 3:30

12 Golden Earring - Only A Matter of Time 2:31

13 Golden Earring - I Do Rock 'N Roll 3:44

14 Golden Earring - Triple Treat 3:55

15 Golden Earring - Annie 4:43

CD3

01 Golden Earring - King Dark 3:35

02 Golden Earring - Shadow Avenue 3:54

03 Golden Earring - Something Heavy Going On 4:40

04 Golden Earring - Gimme A Break 4:18

05 Golden Earring - You Gun My Love 4:00

06 Golden Earring - Time Warp 4:34

07 Golden Earring - Steam Roller 4:56

08 Golden Earring - Madame Zou Zou 3:45

09 Golden Earring - So You Want to Be A Rock 'N' Roll Star / L.A. Woman 4:14

10 Golden Earring - Try A Little Tenderness 3:55

11 Golden Earring - Burning Stuntman 4:04

12 Golden Earring - Mood Indigo 4:15

13 Golden Earring - Miles Away from Nowhere 3:26

14 Golden Earring - Yes, We're on Fire 4:56

15 Golden Earring - Gypsy Rose 3:23

16 Golden Earring - Adrenaline 4:51

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Music weaves itself into the fabric of our emotions, dances through the corridors of memory, and whispers to the soul of who we are. Sharing these stories deepens the connection, turning the experience into something timeless and profound.

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Wednesday, July 23, 2025

OZZY OSBOURNE TRIBUTE R.I.P.

OZZY OSBOURNE TRIBUTE R.I.P.

Ozzy Osbourne wasn’t just a rock icon, he was a force of nature, a voice that roared from the depths of Birmingham and changed the soundscape of music forever. As the frontman of Black Sabbath, he helped forge the thunderous architecture of heavy metal, giving it menace, mysticism, and emotional grit. With his unearthly howl and hypnotic stage presence, Ozzy turned rebellion into ritual, and every performance into a reckoning.

From "War Pigs" to "Paranoid," Black Sabbath captured a generation’s unrest, and Ozzy’s presence, haunting yet deeply human, made it unforgettable. He embodied vulnerability wrapped in distortion; chaos laced with charisma. Later, in his solo career, he became even more indelible, unleashing classics like Crazy Train, Mr. Crowley, and No More Tears, songs that showcased his theatrical spirit and melodic brilliance.

But beyond the music, Ozzy was mythic in his contradictions: outrageous yet endearing, troubled yet transformative. Fans didn't just hear him, they felt him, saw reflections of their own chaos in his. My connection to Sabbath as a younger man mirrors what many experienced: a gateway into something darker, deeper, and more honest.

Ozzy leaves behind more than albums, he leaves a legacy of unapologetic authenticity, a celebration of outsiders, and a reminder that from the ashes of madness, beauty can rise.

Thanks for the music, Ozzy. May your echoes never fade. (B)

I am sharing two sets as a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne.

Black Sabbath - The Ozzy Osbourne Years [1991] (3 x CDs)

If you’re looking for the purest hit of heavy metal’s original magic, The Ozzy Osbourne Years compilation is your potion of choice. Released by Castle Communications in the early '90s, this set gathers six full albums from Black Sabbath (1970) through Sabotage (1975) all fronted by the one and only Ozzy Osbourne. And let’s be honest: Ozzy wasn’t just the face of Sabbath, he was the strange, swaggering soul of it.

What makes this collection special isn’t just the sheer weight of riffs and eerie atmosphere it’s Ozzy’s voice cutting through like a laser in a fog. Whether he was wailing through War Pigs, invoking dread in Children of the Grave, or luring you into the psychedelic swirl of Planet Caravan, Ozzy made darkness sound poetic. The remastered audio in this Castle box set gives his vocals fresh bite, haunting, human, and weirdly lovable.

Sure, some shorter instrumental pieces didn’t make the cut (Fluff, Orchid, FX among others), but what’s here is the core Sabbath experience: raw, unapologetic, mythic. It’s like riding a hearse through a thunderstorm with the amps cranked. Castle’s version isn’t perfect, but for fans of Ozzy’s golden years, it’s a love letter. The eerie artwork, thoughtful liner notes, and the crushing track list all pay tribute to the man who didn’t just sing metal, he became it. (B)

Ozzy Osbourne – Best Ballads [1997]

Released in 1997 as an unofficial compilation, Best Ballads showcases a deeply introspective and melodic dimension of Ozzy Osbourne’s legendary catalog. Far from the heavy riffs and dark theatrics of his Black Sabbath days, this collection highlights Ozzy’s emotional reach his ability to touch hearts as much as he rattled cages.

Tracks like “Mama, I’m Coming Home” and “Goodbye to Romance” speak directly to themes of regret, redemption, and longing. These aren’t just power ballads, they’re confessions wrapped in haunting melodies. “See You on the Other Side” opens the compilation with a bittersweet meditation on loss and transition, while “Close My Eyes Forever” (featuring Lita Ford) adds a duet drenched in gothic beauty.

What makes this compilation special is its vulnerability. Ozzy’s distinctive voice, cracked, expressive, and strangely comforting, carries a rawness that makes even the most lushly arranged songs feel intimate. The unofficial nature of the release adds a bootleg charm, as if these tracks were lovingly gathered by fans who saw past the myth and into the man.

For anyone who’s ever found solace in Ozzy’s softer moments, Best Ballads is a gem, a reminder that even metal gods feel deeply (B)

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Track lists

Black Sabbath - The Ozzy Osbourne Years

CD1

01 Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath 6:21

02 Black Sabbath - The Wizard 4:24

03 Black Sabbath - Behind the Wall of Sleep 3:37

04 Black Sabbath - N.I.B. 6:08

05 Black Sabbath - Evil Woman 3:24

06 Black Sabbath - Sleeping Village 10:44

07 Black Sabbath - Warning 3:33

08 Black Sabbath - War Pigs 7:54

09 Black Sabbath - Paranoid 2:49

10 Black Sabbath - Planet Caravan 4:25

11 Black Sabbath - Iron Man 5:54

12 Black Sabbath - Hand of Doom 7:09

13 Black Sabbath - Fairies Wear Boots 6:11

CD2

01 Black Sabbath - Electric Funeral 4:48

02 Black Sabbath - Sweet Leaf 5:04

03 Black Sabbath - After Forever 5:27

04 Black Sabbath - Embryo 5:01

05 Black Sabbath - Lord of This World 5:26

06 Black Sabbath - Solitude 5:02

07 Black Sabbath - Into the Void 6:12

08 Black Sabbath - Wheels of Confusion 8:00

09 Black Sabbath - Tomorrow's Dream 3:07

10 Black Sabbath - Changes 4:42

11 Black Sabbath - Supernaut 4:43

12 Black Sabbath - Snowblind 5:28

13 Black Sabbath - Cornucopia 3:51

14 Black Sabbath - St. Vitus Dance 2:26

15 Black Sabbath - Under the Sun 5:49

CD3

01 Black Sabbath - Sabbath Bloody Sabbath 5:46

02 Black Sabbath - A National Acrobat 6:16

03 Black Sabbath - Sabbra Cadabra 5:57

04 Black Sabbath - Killing Yourself to Live 5:41

05 Black Sabbath - Who Are You 4:11

06 Black Sabbath - Looking for Today 5:00

07 Black Sabbath - Spiral Architect 5:30

08 Black Sabbath - Hole in The Sky 4:00

09 Black Sabbath - Symptom of The Universe 6:29

10 Black Sabbath - Am I Going Insane (Radio) 4:17

11 Black Sabbath - Thrill of it All 5:54

12 Black Sabbath - Meglomania 9:42

13 Black Sabbath - The Writ 7:45

Ozzy Osbourne – Best Ballads

01 Ozzy Osbourne - See You on The Other Side 6:14

02 Ozzy Osbourne - Mama, I'm Coming Home 4:15

03 Ozzy Osbourne - Revelation (Mother Earth) 6:11

04 Ozzy Osbourne - Killer of Giants 5:42

05 Ozzy Osbourne - Time After Time 4:21

06 Ozzy Osbourne - Ghost Behind My Eyes 5:12

07 Ozzy Osbourne - You're No Different 5:03

08 Ozzy Osbourne - Fire in The Sky 6:25

09 Ozzy Osbourne - Tonight 5:52

10 Ozzy Osbourne - Old L.A. Tonight 4:53

11 Ozzy Osbourne - So Tired 4:00

12 Ozzy Osbourne - Goodbye to Romance 5:34

13 Ozzy Osbourne - Road to Nowhere 5:14

14 Ozzy Osbourne - Close My Eyes Forever (feat. Lita Ford) 4:45

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Monday, July 14, 2025

Strawbs - Selected Discography [1969-2006] (26 x CDs) DAVE COUSINS R.I.P.

DAVE COUSINS R.I.P.

Strawbs - Selected Discography [1969-2006] (26 x CDs)

Dave Cousins, who passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 85, was more than the founding voice of the Strawbs, he was their compass, their poet, and their enduring soul. From the band’s earliest incarnation as the Strawberry Hill Boys in 1964 to their final performance at Cropredy Festival in 2023, Cousins remained the one constant across decades of shifting lineups, genres, and cultural tides.

The Strawbs’ discography is vast, spanning 23 studio albums, 11 live albums, and numerous compilations and box sets. But taken as a whole, it’s not just a catalog, it’s a chronicle of Cousins’ artistic evolution. Early folk-rooted releases like All Our Own Work (recorded with Sandy Denny in 1967) and Dragonfly (1970) showcase his lyrical sensitivity and acoustic storytelling. By Grave New World (1972) and Hero and Heroine (1974), the band had embraced progressive rock, with Cousins’ voice guiding listeners through spiritual introspection and social commentary.

Box sets like A Taste of Strawbs (2006) and Halcyon Days (1997) offer a deeper dive into the band’s rarities, demos, and alternate takes, revealing Cousins not just as a performer, but as a meticulous craftsman. These collections highlight his ability to shape mood and meaning across formats, whether through the haunting “The Hangman and the Papist” or the elegiac “Ringing Down the Years,” his tribute to Sandy Denny.

Cousins’ songwriting was literary, often mystical, and always emotionally resonant. His voice, fragile yet commanding, became the band’s signature, threading through collaborations with Rick Wakeman, John Ford, and Dave Lambert. Even his solo work, like Two Weeks Last Summer (1972), echoes the Strawbs’ thematic depth.

The Strawbs’ albums and box sets now stand as a monument to Cousins’ legacy. They chart not just a band’s journey, but a life devoted to musical exploration, poetic truth, and cultural reflection. His passing marks the end of an era, but the music remains, rich, layered, and timeless.

Raise a glass of “vino collapse,” as he would say, and let the records spin. Dave Cousins may be silent now, but his songs still ring down the years. (B)

Included in this box are the following:

Strawbs - Strawbs - [1969]
Strawbs - Dragonfly - [1970]
Strawbs - Just a Collection of Antiques and Curios - [1970]
Strawbs - From the Witchwood - [1971]
Strawbs - Grave New World - [1972]
Strawbs - Bursting at the Seams - [1973]
Sandy Denny & The Strawbs - All Our Own Work - [1973]
Sandy Denny & The Strawbs - All Our Own Work: The Complete Sessions Remastered - [1973]
Strawbs - Hero and Heroine - [1974]
Strawbs - Ghosts - [1975]
Strawbs - Nomadness - [1975]
Strawbs - Deep Cuts (Remastered & Expanded) - [1976]
Strawbs - Burning For You (Expanded & Remastered) - [1997]
Strawbs - Deadlines - [1978] CD1
Strawbs - Deadlines - [1978] CD2
Strawbs - Heartbreak Hill (1978) - [1995]
Strawbs - Halcyon Days - The A&M Years [1998] CD1
Strawbs - Halcyon Days - The A&M Years [1998] CD2
Strawbs - Strawberry Music Sampler No.1 - (1969) [2001]
Strawbs - The Collection - [2002]
Strawbs Acoustic - Full Bloom - [2005]
Strawbs - A TASTE OF STRAWBS [2006] CD1 Eyes Wide Open
Strawbs - A TASTE OF STRAWBS [2006] CD2 Changing Places
Strawbs - A TASTE OF STRAWBS [2006] CD3 Inside Out
Strawbs - A TASTE OF STRAWBS [2006] CD4 Further Down the Road
Strawbs - A TASTE OF STRAWBS [2006] CD5 Tastebuds

This set was kindly shared with me by K. (Thanks to K)

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VA - From Another World, A Tribute to Bob Dylan [2013]

TRIBUTE

VA - From Another World, A Tribute to Bob Dylan [2013]

This is a unique compilation released by Bonsai Music, offering a global reinterpretation of Dylan’s songwriting legacy. What sets this album apart is its approach, featuring artists from diverse musical traditions who transform Dylan’s work into something entirely new.

This isn’t a standard tribute album with straightforward covers. Instead, the selections showcase reinterpretations through world music influences, bringing fresh perspectives to Dylan’s lyrics and melodies. Expect renditions by Kronos Quartet, Taraf de Haïdouks, and Purna Das Baul, among others, blending folk, gypsy, classical, and indigenous sounds into Dylan’s compositions. The rarities in this collection lie in the reinterpretation styles, some songs take on entirely new rhythmic structures, emphasizing cross-cultural dialogue in a way few tribute albums attempt.

The compilation serves as a reminder that Dylan’s words transcend genres, borders, and traditions. His songs, deeply rooted in American folk and protest music, find new meaning when filtered through global storytelling traditions. It’s an immersive experience for anyone who enjoys hearing familiar songs transformed into something unexpected and thought-provoking.

For listeners intrigued by Dylan’s impact beyond Western folk and rock, From Another World presents a fascinating sonic journey (B)

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Track list

01 Eliades Ochoa - All Along the Watchtower 4:29

02 Bapi Das Baul - Mr. Tambourine Man 3:32

03 Taraf of Haidouks - Corrina, Corrina 5:37

04 Burma Orchestra Saing Waing - I Want You 3:05

05 Salah Aghili - Every Grain of Sand 7:49

06 Musicians of The Nile - Tangled Up in Blue 6:27

07 Divana - Jokerman 6:19

08 Kek Lang - Blowin' in The Wind 4:07

09 Trio Mei Li De Dao - I Want You 5:35

10 Lhamo Dukpa - With God on Our Side 7:19

11 Sayfi Mohamed Tahar - Man Gave Names to All The Animals 6:56

12 Kocani Orkestar - Rainy Day Woman #12 & 35 4:33

13 Aboriginal People Yolingu of Yalakan - Father of Night 2:47

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VA - Subterranean Homesick Blues, Tribute to Bob Dylan [2010]

TRIBUTE

VA - Subterranean Homesick Blues, Tribute to Bob Dylan [2010]

Subterranean Homesick Blues: A Tribute to Bob Dylan (2010) is a compilation album that reimagines Dylan’s iconic Bringing It All Back Home through the lens of contemporary artists. Released by Reimagine Music, this collection offers a unique take on the legendary songwriter’s early electric phase, transforming his classic tracks into fresh interpretations across genres.

The set stays faithful to the structure of Bringing It All Back Home, featuring reinterpretations of every track from the original album alongside additional selections. Expect a mix of alternative, folk, and indie perspectives, breathing new life into Dylan’s rapid-fire lyricism and groundbreaking compositions. Artists like Kronos Quartet, Thea Gilmore, and The Low Anthem contribute nuanced renditions that highlight the album’s timeless appeal while adding modern flourishes.

Standout moments include Jesse Malin’s take on “She Belongs to Me”, which infuses the song with a haunting, introspective edge, and Peter Mulvey’s “Love Minus Zero/No Limit”, showcasing a delicate, stripped-down approach. The collection also delves into Dylan’s political and surrealist lyricism, with tracks like “Maggie’s Farm” and “It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)” reinterpreted with new urgency.

This tribute isn’t simply a nostalgic homage, it serves as a conversation between past and present, proving how Dylan’s words continue to resonate across generations. Whether rediscovering classic tracks or hearing them in a new light, Subterranean Homesick Blues delivers a compelling journey into the heart of Dylan’s artistry. (B)

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Track list

01 Peter Moren - Subterranean Homesick Blues 3:31

02 Ane Brun - She Belongs to Me 4:46

03 Castanets - Maggie's Farm 3:40

04 Mirah - Love Minus Zero 3:46

05 Morning Benders - Outlaw Blues 4:00

06 Julie Doiron - On the Road Again 3:35

07 Asobi Seksu - Bob Dylan's 115th Dream 4:14

08 Helio Sequence - Mr. Tambourine Man 5:43

09 DM Stith - Gates of Eden 6:11

10 Franz Nicolay - It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding) 6:18

11 Sholi - It's All Over Now, Baby Blue 3:28

12 J. Tillman - If You've Gotta Go, Go Now (Bonus Track) 3:46

13 Sea Wolf - Sitting on a Barbed Wire Fence (Bonus Track) 4:23

14 Denison Witmer - I'll Keep it With Mine (Bonus Track) 4:13

15 Laura Veirs - Mama, You've Been on My Mind (Bonus Track) 2:36

16 William Fitzsimmons - Farewell Angelina (Bonus Track) 5:13

17 Will Dailey - California (Bonus Track) 3:15

18 Sholi - It's All Over Now, Baby Blue [Electric Version] (Bonus Track) 4:36

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VA - Blowin' In The Wind, A Reggae Tribute to Bob Dylan [2003]

TRIBUTE

VA - Blowin' In The Wind, A Reggae Tribute to Bob Dylan [2003]

Blowin' In The Wind: A Reggae Tribute to Bob Dylan (2003) is a roots reggae interpretation of Dylan’s songwriting legacy, released by Eurotrend. This compilation brings together a mix of reggae icons and contemporary artists, transforming Dylan’s folk narratives into rhythmic, island-inspired grooves. The selection leans into reggae’s natural storytelling tradition, with artists like The Abyssinians, The Mighty Diamonds, and Judy Mowatt breathing new life into Dylan’s compositions. Standout moments include Lehbanchuleh’s version of “Just Like a Woman”, offering a fresh, soulful take on one of Dylan’s most poetic ballads, and Bradley Brown’s take on “Forever Young”, which infuses warm brass and reggae beats into Dylan’s reflective lyrics. The arrangements emphasize fluid instrumentation, with Wayne Armond’s guidance shaping the album’s cohesive sound.

Among the deeper cuts, this set features Fourth Street Sisters covering "Mr. Tambourine Man", a unique perspective on the song’s drifting, dreamlike essence. Tracks like Sugar Black’s “You’re A Big Girl Now” and Mankind’s “Times They Are A-Changing” reveal how Dylan’s lyrics, originally rooted in folk protest, seamlessly adapt to reggae’s rhythm-driven storytelling.

More than a simple cover album, Blowin' In The Wind highlights reggae’s ability to transform Dylan’s words into something spiritually and socially resonant. It’s a refreshing take on familiar classics, proving that Dylan’s influence extends far beyond folk and rock. (B)

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Track list

01 Abyssinians - Blowin' in The Wind 4:28

02 Mankind - Times They Are A Changing 4:23

03 Mighty Diamonds - I Shall Be Released 3:56

04 Fourth Street Sisters - Mr. Tamborine Man 5:04

05 Lehbanchuleh - Just Like A Woman 4:04

06 Sugar Black - You're A Big Girl Now 4:25

07 Mello - Silvio 3:53

08 Chalice - Lay Lay Lay 4:57

09 Reggae Rockers - Don't Think Twice It's Alright 4:31

10 Bradley Brown - Forever Young 4:21

11 Reggae Rockers - The Mighty Quinn 3:31

12 Judy Mowatt - Knockin' on Heavens Door 4:08

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VA - Tangled Up In Blues, Songs Of Bob Dylan [1999]

TRIBUTE

VA - Tangled Up In Blues, Songs Of Bob Dylan [1999]

Tangled Up In Blues: Songs of Bob Dylan (1999) is an intriguing tribute album released by House of Blues, showcasing Dylan’s songwriting through the lens of blues legends. This collection reinterprets Dylan’s work with gritty, soulful performances, proving how naturally his storytelling blends with the blues tradition.

The lineup includes powerful renditions from artists like Taj Mahal, John Hammond, and Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson, each bringing their own distinctive style to Dylan’s lyrics. Rare gems emerge in tracks like James Solberg’s take on "Things Have Changed", offering a fresh spin on a later Dylan classic, and Kim Wilson’s version of "Down in the Flood", which injects raw blues energy into Dylan’s folk roots. The album leans into the emotional weight of Dylan’s lyrics, transforming familiar songs into expressive, guitar-driven showcases.

The production maintains an organic, live-in-the-studio feel, enhancing the authenticity of each performance. It’s fascinating how Dylan’s words, rooted in folk and rock, take on new depths when filtered through blues phrasing and arrangements.

This collection stands out as more than a tribute—it’s a reimagining of Dylan’s influence, proving that his songs are endlessly adaptable. Whether rediscovering classics or hearing them in a completely new light, Tangled Up In Blues offers a compelling listen. (B)

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Track list

01 Taj Mahal - It Takes A Lot to Laugh 4:32

02 Mavis Staples - Gotta Serve Somebody 6:38

03 Isaac Hayes - Lay Lady Lay 5:36

04 R.l. Burnside - Everything is Broken 4:52

05 Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson - Pledging My Time 4:48

06 John Hammond, Jr. - I'll Be Your Baby Tonight 3:35

07 James Solberg - Ballad of A Thin Man 8:38

08 Alvin Youngblood Hart - Million Miles 6:32

09 Leon Russell - Watching The River Flow 3:39

10 Holmes Brothers - Wallflower 3:57

11 Larry McCray - All Along The Watchtower 4:28

12 Band - One Too Many Mornings 5:13

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Monday, July 7, 2025

VA - May Your Song Always Be Sung, The Songs of Bob Dylan Vol. 1+2 [1997-2001] (2 x CDs)

TRIBUTE

VA - May Your Song Always Be Sung, The Songs of Bob Dylan Vol. 1+2 [1997-2001] (2 x CDs)

May Your Song Always Be Sung: The Songs of Bob Dylan Vol. 1 (1997) and Vol. 2 (2001) are fascinating explorations of Dylan’s songwriting legacy, brought together by BMG Ariola. These tribute albums feature a diverse roster of artists reinterpreting Dylan’s work, offering fresh perspectives on songs that are often inseparable from Dylan’s own delivery.

Volume 1 opens with Michael Hedges’ atmospheric rendition of All Along the Watchtower, while José Feliciano gives a poignant take on Masters of War. The set is a mix of faithful tributes and ambitious reimaginings, including The Box Tops’ I Shall Be Released, a country-soul hybrid, and the rugged Subterranean Homesick Blues from Harry Nilsson. Rare gems surface in versions of Blind Willie McTell by The Dream Syndicate and Seven Days by Jimmy Barnes, songs not often covered and offering fresh angles on Dylan’s lesser-known catalog.

Volume 2 continues the journey with equally eclectic selections, featuring interpretations from artists across genres. These compilations are notable for bringing together mainstream and underground musicians, proving Dylan’s influence stretches far beyond folk and rock.

For listeners who appreciate well-researched, deep-dive collections, these albums deliver an intriguing mix of celebrated classics and overlooked treasures. These are solid examples of Dylan’s songs adapting to different voices over decades. (B)

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ALL

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Track lists

CD1

01 Michael Hedges - All Along the Watchtower 3:01

02 Josè Feliciano - Masters of War 4:45

03 Bobby Bare - Blowin' in the Wind 2:57

04 Phil Carmen - Chimes of Freedom 4:05

05 Steven Keene - Never say Goodbye 3:29

06 Zimmermen - Series of Dreams 5:38

07 Thomas Helmig - Memphis Blues Again 3:46

08 Jeff Healey Band - When the Night Comes Falling From the Sky 4:54

09 Jimmy Barnes - Seven Days 4:11

10 Carlene Carter - Trust Yourself 3:22

11 Rita Chiarelli - Highway 61 Revisited 4:36

12 Nilsson - Subterranean Homesick Blues 3:22

13 Sports - Ballad of a Thin Man 4:46

14 Hooters - All I Really Want to Do 3:56

15 Jennifer Warnes - Sign on the Window 2:45

16 Box Tops - I Shall be Released 2:48

17 Dream Syndicate - Blind Willie McTell 5:28

18 Gotthard - Mighty Quinn 3:17

19 Leningrad Cowboys - Knockin' on Heaven's Door 6:21

Vol. 2

01 Etta James - Gotta Serve Somebody 6:50

02 Articolo 31 - Come una Pietra Scalciata (Like A Rolling Stone) 4:12

03 Patti Smith - Wicked Messenger 3:48

04 Cowboys Junkies - If You Gotta Go, Go Now 3:08

05 Elvis Presley - Tomorrow is A Long Time 5:23

06 Barbara Gosza - Just Like A Woman 5:33

07 Nina Simone - Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues 4:52

08 King Candy - Simple Twist of Fate 3:28

09 Heartland - T.V. Talkin' Song 4:02

10 Gary Burton - I Want You 3:29

11 Steve Young - Don't Think Twice, It's Allright 4:09

12 Ann Christy - Walk Out in The Rain (live) 3:33

13 Odetta - Paths of Victory 2:26

14 Melanie - Sign on The Window 2:27

15 Kiko Veneno Con Juan Perro - Memphis Blues Again 4:36

16 Gerd Köster - Muse feife inne Wind (live) 3:49

17 Stone Country - Million Dollar Bash 2:17

18 Vacels - Can You Please Crawl Out Your Window? 2:35

19 Kenny Wayne Shepherd - Everything is Broken 3:55

20 Harry Belafonte - Midnight Special 3:45

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