HALL AND OATES RELEASE IMPRESSIVE HITS

****
THE WEB GOSSIP
****



Daryl Hall



AT DARYL'S HOUSE --- When we last talked about the consummate artist Daryl Hall, he along with partner John Oates had just released a impressive comprehensive package called Do What You Want; Be What You Are (2009); a stunningly put together and researched compendium of 74 of their best known (and, little known tracks). With terrific liner notes by one the best writers out there, Roy Trakin, it was just a awesome package, that more than anything else, effectively re-introduced the legendary duo to the masses. As a closer-than-usual presence to the entire Hall & Oates sphere I was both surprised and delighted by what was included. I was around in the early days of their career; witnessing their quick succession of Top 10 pop hits, still essentially unrivaled to this day; their legendary battles with management (including the infamous Tommy Mottola); their dalliances with both Nile Rodgers and Arthur Baker; when they disbanded for the first time; and, when they returned as a duo; and, their current relationship with new manager Jonathan Wolfson. Yes, what a long, strange trip it's been. Daryl found a effective new medium with his-now syndicated show Daryl's House, where he's jammed with the likes of Todd Rundgren, John Mayer, Dave Stewart, Maxi Priest, Joe Feliciano, Matchbox 20's Rob Thomas; Dave Rzeznik; Booker T. Jones; and, Toots & The Maytals, among others. The show, a brilliant idea by the way, basically brought Hall full circle and re-invented him in the digital age … in every which way. It essentially made him fully relevant again; not that he ever was not relevant … but, you know this fame game ... one harsh mistress for sure. Hall's personal life was almost as cataclysmic as his music career. His lengthy relationship with Sara Allen not only resulted in some terrific songs (yes, Sara Smile was written for her - her sister Janna helped the duo pen “Kiss On My List.” Janna passed away in 1993) , but proved to be a combative one as well. Also, his best-friend, musical director, and, bassist, T Bone Walk died suddenly just as he began this new album. T Bone, who I knew and was a first class collaborator, was Hall's muse in the same way as John Oates was and is; he intuitively knew what Hall wanted and just so brilliantly was able to bring that to the fore. Hall's married these days (living in the Bahamas), with two step kids, one of whom sings on his brand new solo album entitled Laughing Down Crying; his first solo effort in 14 … after previous classic solo releases like Soul Alone; Sacred Songs; and, Three Hearts In The Happy Ending Machine. On the new album, Daryl sounds more centered and happier than I can ever remember. It was always an interesting dynamic with him: his perfect pitch made him a most valuable commodity, but I think at times he got a bit … cocky, shall we say. And, he was that good! I also think the fact that H&O were so big; for so long; and, it happened all rather quickly, it took a while before reality set it. That said, this new album is sensational. We immediately loved “Save Me,” not only for the unbridled happiness of it, but for its r&b feel; listen to that beautiful beginning; sweet soul indeed! The horns are just sensational (with Hall's ever present sax-man Charlie DeChant) and Hall's step-daughter March, supplying some terrific vocal assistance. It is, a great track. “Eyes For You (Ain't No Doubt About it)” almost reminds of “I Can't Go For That (No Can Do),” with its terrific keyboard harmonies. These two tracks immediately made me think yet again of the fact, that not only is Daryl an amazing singer; he's a terrific keyboard player and guitarist as well. Also, kudos must indeed go to guitarist Paul Pesco … who is just sensational here. He's played with everyone from Madonna to H&O and his musical communication with Daryl is immediately felt. And as Daryl has said in several interviews ... a logical follow up from T Bone. The one clear fact you can see all over the new collection is how the influences gleaned from Daryl's House have come fully into his current work. It's really a tremendous collection for sure; a pure realization of the almost-overwhelming talent from Hall; and, a solidly produced and written project. What a delightful gift as the year ends. One of the best of the year for sure!

****


Maria Bello


HELL ON TV --- We're three weeks into the new TV season … and, so far the casualties have been The Playboy Club and Free Agents; regrettably I haven't watch either, although the former Eddie Cibrian show I did have some interest in. I keep watching Maria Bello in Prime Suspect and am loving it. Last night was its third episode and the best of the lot. I hope it's a keeper. Fringe's third episode is tonight and the character of Peter Bishop (Joshua Jackson) has yet to return in the storyline. If he's not back tonight, the faithful (including I) may finally give up. HBO's George Harrison documentary was on this way and I am watching both parts this weekend. The reviews have been fabulous. Ben Stiller on this week's Saturday Night Live should be terrific ... and, watch for a possible Eddie Murphy cameo!


****


Clive Davis



JIVE, ARTISTA ADIEU – This morning it was announced that the veteran record labels Arista and Jive have been shuttered. Jive in its 20-year history, released hit records by the likes of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake. Arista was founded in 1974 by legendary-powerhouse Clive Davis and saw success with such artists as Whitney Houston, Barry Manilow, and Aretha Franklin. It also released classic albums by such artists as Billy Ocean and Alan Parsons; more recently they released albums by Usher and Pink. All the artists will be absorbed into the overall RCA records banner.


Photos By: RD/Orchon/Dziekan/Retna


DARYL HALL PHOTO BY: MARK MAGLIO

Comments