REVIEW: JEFF GOLDBLUM & THE MILDRED SNITZER ORCHESTRA: THE CAPITOL STUDIOS SESSIONS

4/5

Life Finds A Key.

Who's better? This writer started an impromptu, this one or that one, movie star debate game on a wet afternoon in Starbucks yesterday. Pacino or Dr Niro? Stallone or Schwarzenegger? Tom Hanks or Denzel Washington? Julia Roberts or Sandra Bullock? Bill Murray or Jeff Goldblum? Etc, etc. People got involved. Customers. Baristas. It got fun. It got heated. And oh just for the record if of interest. It goes Pacino, Stallone, Hanks (just), Roberts (yeah I've seen 'Gravity', but put the brilliant Bullock in 'Notting Hill's or 'Pretty Woman' and it just ain't the same) and how you gonna even ask me that? Murray or Goldblum? Santori times or "must go faster"? That would be like a mother or father being asked to choose their favourite child (it probably wasn't me). And I couldn't tell you which etcetera was better...sorry. But point is like Michael Jackson or Prince there are no two actors like the oddball beautiful Bill and Jeff. And this year's vocal 'Isle Of Dogs' co-barks are no two the same. These marvellous misfits who in middle-age have found their perfect place in cult legend and iconic popularity are two of the fact that in their own individual inspirations they are each one of a kind. But still these canine character friends share more than a bone and an affinity for the weird and wonderful like they do Wes Anderson. As a matter of fact like Scarlett Johansson or Will Smith before them they've both made music and as of right now cut their own jazz albums. And who else to bring this great genre back to cool, laid back, trumpet blaring life than Jeff? He brings-like he does with everything he does-that effortless, personified 'je ne sais quoi', which we should just fittingly term...'Goldblum'. You know what it is.

The Goldblum standard is here and it glitters like lounge lights on your glass of whiskey, or the sequins of your loves dress. It's little surprise this renaissance man of his own time has made music like this behind the keys. Jeff is jazz. Behind the notes. On his own random tangent that is part of a much grander scheme that all just works in its own wonder of a way. This man's music is no great secret any more either like fellow modern day legend Morgan Freeman's blues bar in New Orleans (which you know this writer is going to try and hit up when he visits Louisiana next week during his tour of the United States). You could imagine him hosting a night like this in his own place every night of the week he wasn't wining and dining with the finest of friends. Ever since appearing on U.K. chatty talk show host Graham Norton's Friday night show in London, backing up soul sensation Gregory Porter on piano so good the 'Nat King Cole And Me' great had to keep up with him, we've wondered and wished upon an album. And now it's here. As in linking up with Mildred Snitzer's outstanding orchestra for some sessions in the La, La, Land, city of stars, L.A.'s iconic Capitol Studios, Goldblum glows. Giving us something even more stunning than the skyscraping concerts some artists do on the top of this Record buildings peak after recording and cutting their own album. And when the offbeat flirt brings a Hollywood host of his famous friends to the end of his piano to play with, this man ad-libs and talks up the in Hollywood heaven crowd in something so rhythmic we even think he could sing over that perfect playing. But he saves that all for the best of the best. As Jeff being Jeff knows and shows that even though he is the center stage it ain't all about him. And in covering some of the greatest standards with his own timeless signature. Jazz is back with Jeff who never left like it was all meant to be. Life really does find a way.

Haharawrahah! Only his iconic 'Jurassic Park' laugh that has turned into everything from a memes and gifs to an incredible YouTube song (that if isn't what plays (with him on piano may I add) for the first dance on my wedding day then frankly I haven't found my one, true love) is missing in this deluxe evening edition delight. Something as legendary as his Astley, Rick rolled, 'Take On Me' take on the turn around vine. His packaged lunchbox table slap. The fact that he's classically said, "must go faster" in two iconic, blockbuster movies. C'mon! You know which ones, "thank you very much". Or that iconic, shirt open Dr. Ian Malcolm pose that has turned into a box changing pop viynl, works of great Instagram renaissance art and a "must go faster" hallmark headlined, valentine's card for one of the ex Mrs. Tim Harvey's. Not to forget a larger than life sized statue that for a day in London dwarfed the Big Smile's legendary Tower Bridge. But fear not his version of his "in 'Jurassic Park', scary in the dark" made-up lyrics to the John Williams classic theme is here like being scared you're going to be eaten. In instantly recognisable, its own legend, sing-a-long glory, ad-libbed (as good as his off-script, improvised, cheque paying 'Ragnarok' riffs in 'Thor' three) with Sarah Silverman. Yes that's right. Sarah Silverman. The comedian whose just got her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is actually an amazing actress if you didn't know (see her serve herself in 'Battle Of The Sexes'...no I mean really see it). Who according to Jeff that night (and some lady she coincidentally met in the lavatory) has a look of Amy Winehouse about her. Here getting her Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga on with Jeff, cheek-to-cheek with the hilarious, classic off the cuff, linked up rendition of 'Me And My Shadow' and the inspired interlude introduction beforehand. Where he mid-song even enquires about the safety of leaving butter (I can't believe it) out the fridge overnight for the sake of spreadable softness. I'm with you on that one Jeff (can I call you Jeff?)...butter side down. That's the stuff of dreams that speaks to me right there. Never since Beethoven have we witnessed classical compositions such as this...and the funny thing is, you think I'm joking. Gentlemanly flirting up a storm for show with Haaayley Reeeinhart for Nina Simone's simmering 'My Baby Just Cares For Me' too, everyone's favourite has it all. Icon Imelda May smouldering on the warm 'Come On-A-My House' and the 'Straighten Up And Fly Right' standard. Whilst the collar smart Goldblum loosens up and takes off his cool as he lets loose like his GQ styled tie. His keys are Alicia accomplished for all the songs in the key of Mr. "Life Finds A Way'. From the off Broadway, timeless magic of New York in the fall with, 'Nostalgia In Times Square'. All the way to the exotic evoking 'Canteloupe Island', via a 'Caravan' of love. Reworking knockout classics like 'Don't Mess With Mister T' perfectly and 'Gee Baby (Ain't I Good To You)' (YES!) perfectly this is something we're glad entered his mind. Jeff gives us something that makes our wish come true of wanting to know what it feels like to be free. This man is the definition of that with his definitive career path. He even lights up the darkness of Dinah Washington's 'This Bitter Earth' (how Max Richter gives this even more shadow for 'Shutter Island' and the haunting 'Handmaid's Tale' break Elizabeth Moss video, walking around the lonely late night streets of Toronto is tortured testament to the songs bruised beauty) like only he can or have right to do without sacrificing the songs soul. Because all joking and fondness aside this is real music and artistry with every intention from Jeff. Who joins dudes with the same name like Bridges in bridging the Hollywood gap between movies and music. Showing true showmen and the greatest of them (oh hey Hugh) can do both seamlessly and perfectly. This refreshing sip of jazz bar beauty may be the best thing you've heard this year since, "did you hear Jeff Goldblum makes jazz music? Imagine if he made an album"! Your welcome. And we're not worthy Grandmaster maestro. Must go again. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

On Repeat: 'My Baby Just Cares For Me', 'Me And My Shadow', 'Nostalgia Of New York'.

PLAYLIST REVIEW: RM-MONO

4/5

Mono's Tones.

Whoopi Goldberg literally just gave BTS the very shirt off her back. The K-Pop sensation that have even made Psy's 'Gangnam' last season's style are in London on the BBC's Friday night talk show hosted by the hilarious and heartfelt Graham Norton. And everyone in attendance are screaming in a One Direction unison that points to the nostalgia of the first time four fabulous lads from Liverpool graced the stage of the Ed Sullivan show. These 'Idols' have just performed their big hit with showstopping chereography. Without needing superstar guest feature queen Nicki Minaj. And now they're all on the couch with 'Gone Girl's' Rosamund Pike and more of Hollywood's elite. Talking so much in near perfect translation that there isn't even time for Norton's sought after, popular red-chair flipping segment. Because nobody wants to see this squad walk. Everyone is in their gang, in soldier march, army unison. As Harry Connick Jr. syly snaps a selfie. Whilst 'Fifty Shades Of Grey' leading man heartthrob Jamie Dornan asks if he can be a new member of the group as Jimin is at home resting off a dance related injury. There may not be seven of them tonight, but there's a billion served worldwide for what may just become the best boy band of all-time. Giving both style and more substance to the fast food world of pop music in this Spotify digital age. Fan boys and girls across the globe want these guys album for real. There's a reason they are more than the best boy band since the Backstreet Boys and it has nothing to do with just how good they look or sing. These guys are on the cover of TIME right now. And they even spoke at the United Nations. You ever seen Justin Bieber do that?! It's because their genuine and sincere 'Love Yourself' message from the album of the same name is more like a movement that has given them this legion of real world followers. Watching and mimicking their every move like a dance, far more than the tomorrow too late, too gone, Twitter trending age. 'Sister Act' legend Goldberg was so moved by this chorus she unbuttoned her shirt that matched the beauty of the boys kimono's and handed it to the grateful recipients. Explaining that the piece of clothing-her own design-was all about movement and people. Giving it in heartfelt thanks to all the joy these boys are bringing to the world. Because after all the only way to erase pain is with joy. The only way to turn hate is with love. Which she saw in these young men in this very moment she became the newest member of the BTS army.

Bang Tan Boys leader RM may just be the most famous face in the world right now. The leading man of everything entertainment. Don't believe us? Just watch! It was once Bruno Mars uptown, but now it's this young soul from Seoul. Not new Los Angeles Lakers franchise superstar King LeBron James. Or Hollywood and 'Atlanta' movie and music star Donald Glover AKA Childish Gambino. Because this is more than America. Dreams aren't just made in California anymore. They belong just as Far East as they do in the wild west. And whether it be the neon temple culture of Japan, from the modern all the way back to the traditional. Or the 'Crazy Rich Asian' money of China and this year's biggest movie. Their influence is as present as it is correct. It's not all about the United States. For every comic-book there's manga. For ever Pixar, anime from studios like Ghibli. And now this young man and his squad are waving the flag for South Korea in a country that gives us hit movies Hollywood has no need or even right to remake. Like the zombie horror whose drama could actually move you to tears in 'Train To Busan' (and it's amazing animated prequel 'Seoul Station'). Or ones that could take on both 'Atomic Blonde' and 'John Wick' combined in 'The Villainess' (there's your crossover right there). Meaning so much for a country who has so much against it. From their neighbours in the oppressing North. To the suicide rates in the South. Especially amongst youngsters and especially amongst young males that has reached epidemic levels of more than a national concern. We all tragically remember what happened at the end of last year to the late, great Jonghyun of Shinee. This is for him. My friend. And everyone we have lost to depression. RM and BTS teaching and telling the soul of their native South Korea and every boy and girl around the world to love themselves and keep doing so is exactly what this world falling to negativity like a Trump tweet needs right now and forever more. These are the most powerful men in the world. More than entertainment. As they have the right to practice what they preach in a political arena. But this isn't that. No politics as usual. This is all about the personal. And helping the public regain purpose in their private lives. Without shame or blame. Showing joy comes with pain. Something beautiful comes out of struggle. And light comes out of the shadows. Showing we can all rise from the trap of the four walls of our mind. Or the thoughts of the world in kind. You can call him artist. You can call him idol.

But don't point fingers. The reserved, but most outspoken leader of BTS-especially on a global PR scale-may have billions screaming his initials with BTS, but sometimes he goes it alone. And this former 'Rap Monster' RM follows his first name self-titled mixtape with a new collection he calls a playlist like fellow rapper from Canada, Drake's 'More Life's and all that Spotify streaming 'Passionfruit'. This 'Mono' music (with white paper, pencil scrawled, 'If You're Reading This It's Too Late' like artwork) and it's seven seal tracks, sinning in regards to the middle of the night awake, headphones on, electro-pop, atmospheric dream, are a whole different tone than BTS' candy coated chart collection. Yet from artistic videos to poetic interludes and messages not so subtely hidden, these beautiful boys have always hinted towards this depth of character and lyrical dexterity. Truly facing himself as the man in the mirror of the whole world watching, RM bares to us his most personal and profound project yet. Alongside American greats like capital lyricist, Washington's Wale he professed his skills as a true hip-hop star on his first tape. But this playlist punctuates not only his pain, but his power drawn from all that and all ours too as he encompasses us all. If anyone doubted BTS or K-Pop wasn't real music with real feeling then they won't now. From South Korea to Japan and the rest of this former MTV generation planet. This is real music like O.D. Harry Styles' solo songwriting album people couldn't believe was him like it wasn't butter. The 'mono.' opener 'Tokyo' is the new anthem for the metropolis of the Far East and the neon illuminated world like Harajuku fashion. Bathed in bright light, big city loneliness like people watching at the crossing of Shibuya's iconic Starbucks. Singing, "Life is a word that sometimes you cannot say/And ash is a thing that someday we all should be/When tomorrow comes/How different it's going to be/Why do love and hate sound just the same to me?" And even in Korean none of the hurt or humility in RM's words are lost in translation. Especially when he collaborates with English synth duo big in Japan and all of Asia, Honne for his hometown 'Seoul' and it's lavishing lyrical video. Mapping the city streets of the South Korean capital to Honne's unmistakable produced sound. From the skyscrapers of a bright day, to the twinkling lights loneliness of night. As R.M. seeing love and hate as the same, mirrors 'I love you so' light and dark "I love you Seoul/I hate you Seoul" musings to a video that's camera work turns the city upside down on itself for 'Tron' like neon time lapse tunnels, to tableaus of sea sky beautiful blue. "This city's harmony, it’s so familiar to me" he laments over this legendary landscape. That all comes to a parked car, convenience store head as our narrator, staying up on a late night drive way past seven or eleven tells us he's leaving like he's living. Surprised? Dont be. Besides 'Everythingoes' like he says on the electronic, euphoric standout he warns with wisdom behind the Maxwell and Musiq Soulchild styled, titled tracks. Whilst trying to reassure us amongst our troubles and struggles, 'uhGood'. And then woefully waving a ''badbye' to a lost love he wishes would "kill (him) softly" like a timeless Fugees song. But there's light in the phoenix rise, "We gotta dance in the rain/Dance in the pain" of the night is darkest before the dawn 'Moonchild'. Like the young man he was watching from his window as he told the United Nations in his stirring speech. But on his windows pain all you have to do is hear and see the closer 'Forever Rain' on his glass pane to feel his so emphatically and empathetically. Hiding under his umbrella, whilst people are minding theirs. Screaming out his hurt, "When it rains I/Get a little feeling that I do have a friend/Keeps knocking on my windows/Asks me if I’m doing well/And I answer, I’m still a hostage of life/I don’t live because I can’t die/But I’m chained to something". In all its depth of darkness, but influential introspection for a modern world, head down, lost in their phones. Like under the umbrella of a scrolling downpour. Accompanied by the amazing, beautiful, black and white animation on a 'The House Of Small Cubes' heartbreaking scale for the music video. Which may win no Oscars, but could sure use a Grammy. If these guys get ignored at the next ceremony than the industry really doesn't know music like that ignorant drivel they said about women this year that doesn't even bare repeating. This is the most substance pop has had since Sia put on a blonde wig, turned around and sung to the chandeliers. And that ruling Australian wasn't American too. RM is clearly a man still dreaming awake, whilst we are in R.E.M. like 'Everybody Hurts'. Wishing he could sleep off the pain. But in this 'Mono' mood there's honest beauty in his vulnerability. Flesh and blood turning hurt into art. And baring his soul he shows so much heart in return over these beats. Now doesn't that sound like love to yourselves? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

On Repeat: 'Seoul', 'Tokyo', 'Forever Rain'.

REVIEW: CHRIS(TINE) & THE QUEENS-CHRIS

4/5

J'Adore Chris.

Seamlessly blending native French and our own English in the same sentences of the same lines of the same hook gives Chris(tine) and her Queens one of the greatest gifts in modern pop music. Like the ability to see Sia's pain in how she instrumentally pitches her voice. Or how Taylor Swift can turn a broken heart into a hit record. But even from a Japanese Breakfast to a London Underground there is no electro, experimental synth-pop quite like Christine and the Queens. Hearing Héloïse Letissier levitate and translate between music like she did 808 samples of Kanye West's 'Heartless' interpolated with Christophe's 'Les Paradis Perdus' is as pleasant a surprise as seeing the iron lady of the Eiffel Tower in a golden Paris night light up like a thousand flashbulbs that will end up taking that same picture. But this pansexual 30 year old from Nantes, France is mixing nothing up as she truly finds herself in 'Chris'. The formidable follow-up to the beautiful breakthrough, 'Chaleur Humaine' sees the gender fluid artist crop her locks, slick them back and scrawl out the 'tine' in her name to just be Chris and the Queens. Leaving the only confusion being to whether some of the lyrics to lead, lead strong single 'Girlfriend' are French or "pardon my French". But Chris saves the swearing for in Spanish in a world and time were we have gone from having international fans sing along to songs from the Beatles in perfect English, without translation. To us lost in singing the foreign phrases from international artists like uber famous, South Korean boy band BTS in the same word for word. And like Cash or King Cole making albums in different languages for different countries, the queens' 'Chris' gives us a French and English version of the same record. In a today where language like gender constructs just don't matter.

We've waited a long time to hear from something just like this. And going back to the future in the 80's synth of her 'Girlfriend', Chris sings and swings on a wrecking ball, "I'm gone in a flick, but back in a second/With salted skin, rash for no reason/Boys are loading their arms, girls gasp with envy/F-f-for whom are they mimicking endlessly?/Same old sadness in small lumps on my jaw/For lusting after is the usual freak show/May your girl come, birdie die under this spur/F-f-f-fingers angrily sunk on the jugular, then girlfriend" for all the pop princesses to take note. "Touché" indeed. This album also contains '5 Dollars'. No not some money back in the form of honest Abe, but another stellar single that goes for the scores, singing, "You’re eager and unashamed/I grieve by dying every night baby/Prove them wrong when you get 5 dollars" and dressing up another classic visual for the S&M inspired music video. But forget a safe word, things get real personal and worth more on 'Doesn't Matter (Voleur de Soleil)' with lasting lines like, "Lingering on when they kiss/Leaning towards this abyss/And of lately the only people I can stare/Are the unraveled ones with their hands laying bare" and the potently powerful, "Rage as a fabric, through and through/Like that gaze they used to do/'Cause the suicidal thoughts that are still in my head/Give her that awful side-smile when I lay in bed" showing so much substance beneath the synth style. As Chris takes depression and anger to personal task. Whilst the French 'La Marcheuse' gives even deeper meaning, singing, "J’vais marcher très longtemps/Et je m’en vais trouver les poings qui redessinent/J’vais chercher éhontément/Les coups portés sur moi/La violence facile". Even lost in translation you hear and feel every emotion as it gets into the blood in your blue veins.

Yet for those about to ask Google, we'll save the breath that does the effort of just keying it in as those lyrics mean, "I'm going to walk all the time/And I'm going to force the aggressive looks/I always go in front/I'm waiting to find/Easy violence" and literally so much more. There's depth to the decadence and mainstream defiance as Chris(tine) and the Queens show us that popular music need not be the bubblegum saccharine of those who would rather live their lives for mainstream acceptance, rather than their own individual stance, head and shoulders (word to the shampoo). As a matter of fact the only artist that stands a frame above this is the 'Masseducation' of miss St. Vincent. But with this soaring sophomore, statement album after a definitive debut, when these queens hit trip we'll know whether they become shooting stars sky-rocketing before they flame out. Or legends of music that will forever be timeless. Tracks like the outstanding opener in LCD Soundsystem like electro-funk reply, 'Comme Si' and the domestic violence cautionary tale of 'The Walker' further this notion. Whilst 'Goya Soda' fizzes and pops like ring pulls on shaken cans. But the worn word to the wise of 'Damn (What Must A Woman Do)' brings pure heartbreak over heart strings, pitching, "Let me mourn/The one that corrupted all/How cold she doesn't call, no calls, no calls/Just like before/I'm worn out but I want some more/Naked with opened door/Encore, encore". Stronger than the sweet soul of 'Humaine' and toned up with Cameo and Michael Jackson 'Dangerous' influences from 'What's-Her-Face' to 'Feels So Good'. There are sharper edges here like 'Make Some Sense' to the bolder 'The Stranger' in an album full of instant classics that become as readily recognisable as something you've heard for years by the second chorus. The raw pansexual energy, lust and sweat of this set is stunning. And much more freeing with purity in equality. As this queen of hearts becomes Chris, not only are we given one of the greatest albums of the year, but also one of the most defiant of the decade and most meaningful of her moment in the mainstream. An explosion of feminism, masculinity, sexuality and vulnerability that will touch you body and soul, skin to skin. Feel it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

On Repeat: 'Girlfriend', 'Comme Si', La Marcheuse'.

REVIEW: PRINCE-PIANO & A MICROPHONE 1983

4/5

Paisley Piano

How many days? How long did it take before they took a blow torch to Prince's legendary vault of treasures? His hidden gems. His unreleased tracks and albums. His real music collection. Rumour has it that Prince once recorded an entire duet album with good friend and 'American Woman' live collaborator Lenny Kravitz (whose current, cool, calm 'Raise Vibration' album out this month also is the 'Let Love Rule' feeling of peace the whole world needs right now), only to tell him upon completion, "this is just for us"! Can you imagine Kravitz's jaw and cash drawer dropping reaction? But there's something beautiful and sacred about that. The fact that no matter how much we yearn and burn for it, we probably will never hear the soul these two spiritual artists worked on together, personally...and more importantly privately. Which is their right, not ours. And no matter what, it's still out there. And we mean in the musical ether for God's ears only. Not for public, vulturing consumption. Believe me, some things should just be left be. And if you really love the artist you claim ownership to in fandom, then there is something inherently not quite right about the grave-digging, cherry-picking, money-making off the music he probably never intended to release. Which now sees the light of day in a way which should have only been seen with his consent. Still, truth be told we have no idea of Prince's true feelings on this subject to judge his estate. We had a clue with what they did to Mr. Jackson with 'Michael' and his cease and desist reaction to his love symbol being used in his late friend and music rivals posthumous album artwork. Or the Superbowl Halftime Show ('Purple Rain' in the rain as he throws his bandana into the crowd so cool! Thank you musical Gods) legends beyond the grave thoughts of a hologram being used in sync with pop superstar Justin Timberlake's mid-February tribute. Turns out in the end the man who once started a rivalry with Mr. Rogers after the purple one asked how can sexy be back when it never left, performed a respectful tribute fit for a Prince as the city of Minneapolis lit up a beautiful, purple love symbol across the Viking's stadium and the streets of this Minnesota city. Yet still although we should all just let this great man rest in the peace he's earned and not be like these tabloids who still want to exploit the details of this mans death which in rights only belong to his family privately, just to sell newspapers. There's something about new music from this genius that we just want to at least hear even if the game is to be sold and not to be told. Just to keep this mans spirit alive. Even though we all know it could never die.

'Moonbeam Levels' set it all off on the '4Ever' collection of his ultimate greatest hits. Proving that the level of this stars cutting room floor edits could still shoot for the moon. But we already knew this from his B-Sides greatest best that even appeared in concert (most notably 'She's Always In My Hair' and the originals of superstar songs he wrote for others like Sinead O'Connor's, 'Nothing Compares 2 U') and the complete 'The Works'. And we always knew this day was going to come too where we would see the first full release album from a multiple artist discography load of work from a man who averaged an album for each year he was active in the music industry for over three dynamic, dominant, definitive decades. And you thought rap God, Tupac Shakur had a songbook to rival Dylan's. This real king of pop, Prince had it all in any genre and style. All the way down to the acoustics of the bare and beautiful, pen and paper songwriting origins. Forget two turntables and a microphone. All he needs is piano and I and one. And in tinkling ivories for some songs in the key of his life. Prince gets his 'How Come You Don't Call Me', Alicia and Elton John on. Chord progessive fitting in the fact that the artist was about to tour with just that one instrument and his voice before he died two tragic years ago in the same 12 months we lost a princess too, the beautiful Bowie, George Michael at Christmas, saw the Champ fall and got nothing but Trump and Brexit back in return. Beautiful in tribute in so far as in Paisely Park Prince was actually performing on piano after concerts, in private invite only gigs for his fans where all were welcome on multiple nights, despite multiple health problems, days before he died. There was no other way to set off this collection of life after death releases. And in '83, bridging the year gap between his breakout '1999' and his magnum opus 'Purple Rain', 'Piano & A Microphone, 1983' fits in perfectly. Where else could you hear a minute and change version of the eight wonderful minutes, 'Purple Rain' just as grand and a real and raw rework of the 'International Lover' closer off '99?

Stripped down to the bare minerals and as inspiringly intimate as the freedom of musicality and sexuality the M.F. Prince brought to the 80's like with the 'Virgin', Madonna. For all that's going to come out from this artist in the coming years, this is probably and essentially the closest we will ever get to Prince Rogers Nelson. From the opening "can we turn the lights down" request of the piano sharp highlight of '17 Days' there are no smoke and mirrors here. Just like the iconic, dark room, black and white captured flashbulb moment of the albums artwork and now collection classic cover. Featuring the man himself poignantly and pensive, albeit with strength looking into the good light of the make up mirror, with foundation, water and tissues on the ledge of the desk in front of him. In theatre they call this shot and moment 'The Half' (hour) before curtain call. It's arguably an artist at their most vulnerable, before they bare it all. And what better way to capture Prince's most purest performance than this? And in this nine track beauty featuring the signs of the early times of 'Strange Relationship' and the now lead single of his own classic cover of the spiritual 'Mary Don't You Weep', which has been done from everyone from the dear departed Aretha, to the Seeger Sessions of the Boss Springsteen with so much soul. There's so much gold here from the dust of Prince's purple piano. From 'A Case Of You' to 'Wednesday' and the title and album standout, 'Cold Coffee and Cocaine' that gives the visionary blues key to Ray Charles a run for their stimulating substance. But Trent D'Arby delicately floating finally in this cohesive collections closer 'Why The Butterflies', Prince asks his mother, "what's this strange, strange". And it's almost an echoed sentiment here. Because no matter how good and privileged it feels to hear new music from Mr. Nelson. It also feels a little intrusive and off...and not because of the nature of these real and raw demos that without polish are simply perfect. Take it this way, a 'Hit N Run' year before he died this writer somehow at the last ticket and time off work minute got to see Prince live in the greatest gig he'll ever see and has no cell phone away record of. One that also ended with the encore of a piano solo. All I have is a review and the words that could never do justice to the show that just went on from a showstopper on the envelope pushing top of his musical game (you should really hear the last, new music). One that looking younger than ever we had no idea was going to pass just a calender later. Like Ziggy we thought the symbol was going to live for ever. But in a way like Stardust he will...he's just gone on home to his home planet (thanks Daily Planet in 'Justice League'). But the morning after when I thought my review was going to meet poor writing criticism, it actually found an e-mail headed from "the offices of Prince". One graciously saying they actually, amazingly (thank you lord) liked what I wrote, would I use this official photo instead (erm...yes of course!) and would it be okay to use quotes from it on their website with of course a credit (now c'mon man...what do you think?). Now although hoax or no hoax I never saw my name in those official headline lights it doesn't quite matter. I can't help think to this day, "the offices"? Does this mean he saw my review?! Prince?! Does the 'Controversy' cover star even read his own press? I hope so. But now I'll never know. And in someways like the music we'll never hear, somehow that's alright with me. It's more fitting this way. More pure and beautiful that way. In some ways...it's just right. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Key Tracks: 'Mary Don't You Weep', '17 Days', 'Cold Coffee & Cocaine'.

#TheStream B.T.W. I LIKE BTS! W.T.F.

Crazy Rich Idols.

(Our new column 'The Stream' debuts with a look at South Korean sensation and K-Pop megastars BTS)

Seoul power! When I'm not trying to get this writing dream off paper (yes...we have real jobs), I work in the retail record store HMV (yes...there are still some out there). And this year even though music isn't even the biggest seller (it's a sad day when Pop Vinyls sell more than actual vinyls), between the usual suspects of Ed Sheeran, Eminem, Post Malone, Lady Gaga, Adele, Andre Rieu and Hugh Jackman (ladies and gentlemen did you forget about that soundtrack you've been waiting for?) teenage girl after teenage mother have kept asking, "do you have any BTS"!

"I'm sorry madam! We're not that kind of store!"

Turns out BTS isn't text speak or a medical condition. But in fact a South Korean pop revolution of megastar idols that can even finally get that Psy 'Gangnam Style' song out your heads, hips and the lips of every party playlist requests (C'mon dad! Not again! You said last time ten chin poses ago). One so worldwide huge they are about to be the first K-Pop act to speak at the United Nations. And if you don't think much of that (and you really, REALLY should!) the guys from the Far East have just eclipsed the girl from Nashville. As the video for these idols new song 'IDOL' has just taken over Taylor Swift's youtube record by just...ya know 2.7...MILLION views.

Look what you made them do!

But you have to hand it to their legion of loyal Bangtan Boys squad of (st)fans and their patient, penniless parents. BTS C.D.'s (yes...we still sell these Spotify) have gone from tax like import prices to being sold alongside discounted merch and free posters that elict the same screams these boys produce that lies on the richter scale somewhere between One Direction and more needle leaning towards Beatlemania. You earned it BTS Army! And if you think they're huge here. Just imagine what they're like in their own country. Let alone continent...and the watching world.

Just see them on 'Ellen', Fallon or award show live featuring Hollywood stars like iPod kid, 'Baby Driver' Ansel Elgort with their smartphones out recording and posting like the fans they are. Because like it or not BTS are the pin up posterboys of the hashtag generation. Or should we say the top trend?! And refreshingly in a time where the all Chinese cast of 'Crazy Rich Asians' becomes the number one movie in the country, there's absolutely nothing Hollywood about it all. It's its own entertainment world of wonder. If you thought flicking through the hotel T.V. with Bill Murray in 'Lost In Translation' was weird and wonderful, then wait until you see these crazily colourful and chereographed, coated in candy popping, vivid visuals of music videos featuring digital giraffes, tigers and sharks OH MY!

And when they catwalk that fashion to those dance moves you'll be emulating like 'This Is America', if you thought Harajuku in Tokyo had style then you better shop again in the 24 opening hour city of Seoul. Because these kids look like they raided Prince's wardrobe when everyone else was blow torching his vault of music. Who else can pull off color combos and ruffles like this?! The artist formerly known as! And it's all coordinated like this perfect pop manufacturing. And this Bowie gender fluid look has a real positive message in a smaller world that's finally in some corners becoming more open. These guys dress how they feel...and they are heartthrob adored for it. How's that for respect? And guys if you have a problem with that you wouldn't if it was a gang of J-Pop girls with guitars living out your favourite anime fantasies...just saying!

And after finally adding them to the work playlist to "see" (it's only right) what they're like (normally I try and look cool with some Dylan or Black Keys) much to my co-workers shaking head dismay, I get it. This is why they're rapping (and they actually can...with formidable flow) with queen Nicki Minaj or throwing cakes with Steve Aoki on the dancefloor like "go shawty it's your birthday". As everyone around the globe sings and 'Idol Challenge' dances along, inspiringly without translation after decades of international countries lip syncing in English (except with artists like Johnny Cash and Nat King Cole who amazingly added to their countless catalogues and body of work by recording albums in multiple different languages) to their favourite pop songs. Barriers and borders have been broken. Influence is inspiring when it's not about what makes money, but what makes people happy.

The energy that emnates from their power bar like lift of music will be streaming and surging on your next gym playlist. Replacing aggression with happiness. And forever at the risk of sounding corny isn't that what the world needs right now? As their 'Love Yourself' message isn't selfish in this selfie age...it's all encompassing. These young BTS men are crazy, sexy, cool like TLC without trying to be hard, intimidating or bullying. They're all inclusive and this is exactly what their country or we all need right now. With North Korea playing nuclear hot potato with that spud Trump and that whole side of the continent unaware of the beauty they are going to war with below. It's time for open eyes, minds and hearts.

And these positive male role models are what S. Korea also needs now desperately with depression and suicide rates over there soaring to epidemic levels. Especially tragically with young men and entertainers. You only have to look at late last year and the loss of the lead singer of Shinee, Jonghyun. A man who in spite of his sadness brought so much joy. Or this writer himself whose close friend from over there, having lost a brother a decade ago still feels that puncuated pain. This writer who now is also hopefully himself finally coming out the other side of the worst year of his life. We all need this and see who we've lost to tragedy in these boys' happiness and humanity. Coupled with their poetic lyrics about mental health that can help lift us out of this depression. It's positivity in a time of unfortunately the exact opposite. It's heart and soul from Seoul in a time and trending tide were we all need a little more hope. BTS I'm actually a fan. You yourself should be too. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

REVIEW: PETE YORN & SCARLETT JOHANSSON-APART (EP)

4/5

Found In Translation.

Coming into focus, back together again, great American singer/songwriter Pete Yorn thumbs the bridge of his nose between his eyes as he restlessly leans on the open window of American muscle. He pulls the sleeve of his suit jacket back to check the time on his elegant wrist watch and looks out of his passenger side window in polite impatience. And then there she is. Hollywood starlett Scarlett Johansson. Riding shotgun looking back at him like something cinematic on this long and swerving kaleidoscopic road. As if 2009 wasn't almost ten years gone next calender. Short bob rocking, singing about her "bangs growing too long" as she pulls the directions of a mascara wrote, alcohol smudged cocktail napkin out her diamond shining pocketbook purse. Her bottle green cocktail dress gleaming the same like the smashed glass on the back seat that twinkle like the stars in the back windows rearview. Carpool singing together about relationship woories and 'Bad Dreams' like it was the happiest song in the world. Air-drumming and swaying side to side in sing-along unison (with even a crazy to camera 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles' driver seat looking reference). All whilst turning the car radio tuner to a whole new beat and street, the She and Him of actress Scarlett Johansson and singer Pete Yorn reunite like M. Ward and 'New Girl' Zooey Deschanel are about to too. "Thanks for breaking up with me again" Johansson tells Yorn in the albums linear notes. Seems fitting.

They "broke up" in 2009 with these friends collaborative album 'Break Up'. When 'Back and Forth' singer Yorn phone call recruited Academy actress Johansson and femme fatale throwback Scarlett to work on a new album with him. Following her 'Lost In Translation' breakout to the movie mainstream of legendary legacy making leading ladies in 2003 when she was still a teen, Scarlett really came of age before the Avenging Black Widow days of Thor like blockbuster war dominance to 'Infinity' thunder. And her 2008 album of Tom Waits covers 'Anywhere I Lay My Head' showed she could beautifully go at it on her own, before Yorn called her up for their dual nine track album. One that birthed the instantly infectious, foot-stomping classic single 'Relator' and the solo Scarlett standout cover 'I Am The Cosmos', like Pete's own 'Someday' closer on a classic album as songwriting straight-forward as the timeless over a pad and pen cover. Now back with another classic one, their E.P. sister follow up to their 'Break Up' album, 'Apart' explores the aftermath of a broken relationship. But it almost has the fond, found feeling of a Sofia Coppola 'Lost In Translation' sequel reuniting with Bill Murray for Santori times in the Park Hyatt hotel (like the 'A Murray Christmas' Netflix special), or Johansson's return to the Tokyo neons for last years amazing anime adaptation, 'Ghost In The Shell'. And relating to 'Relator', 'Bad Dreams' reawakens the toe-tapping catchy opening single number.

"Worried I lost my car keys or that I said something wrong/Worried about the mess that's in my house, that's in my heart/Worried that I'll go crazy every time that we're apart" they sing in the chrome filter of traffic and night lights reflecting off their shimmering car for a standout single that shines like it does. And if that feels like something straight out of the flicks of a film then wait until you here the dual favourite on this half-album. 'Movies' feels exactly like one with Yorn's lasting lyrics, offset by Scarlett's smoky, smouldering vocals. Now their own trademarks like they are their own Ryan Adams or Norah Jones'. The out the gate permenance of the hook, "Take me to the movies/Take me where you're going/I don't want to live without you" as smoky and seductive as Scarlett singing "La-la-la-la-la, love you" in harmony with the outstanding opener 'Iguana Bird'. There's even an as red as romance, or this E.P.'s artwork cover remix to Pete Yorn's 'Tomorrow'; off his last acclaimed album 'Arranging Time' album on this five-track today. But it's the relationship ashes and dust stubbed out on 'Cigarello' that is cinematically, open-road and heart compelling and illuminating as a plugged in car cigarette lighter under the dash as Yorn years, "Cigarello in your eyes/Choking on the good goodbyes/We dream of better days". The whole EP has this same atmospheric feeling and need of wanting for more from the tracks and the tears of two unique artists in their own right. Finally back in each others collaborative embrace for after what feels like forever, but in an instant is brought back like they never left. We hope another decade doesn't age before these two decide to be apart no longer for even more songs. One good encore deserves another...together. And 'Apart'-even in its extended play half measure in comparison to the almost decade ago 'Break Up' L.P.-shows us sometimes the greatest love stories belong to the ones we lost. But like something that never really leaves us, will always hold close...forever. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

REVIEW: BEN HARPER & CHARLIE MUSSELWHITE-NO MERCY IN THIS LAND

4/5

Land Of Hope & Blues.

Credit late blues great John Lee Hooker for this perfect pairing. Hooker woke up one morning and decided that blues icon Charlie Musselwhite and multiple bandsman Ben Harper needed to cut an album together. So he made the necessary introductions and the rest my friends is beautiful blues history like John Lee's own legendary legacy. Now after the Grammy winning 'Get Up' album (and stellar standouts like the last waltz of 'We Can't End This Way' and the cowboy fedora of 'I Ride At Dawn'), it's time to get down on the dynamo duos new album 'No Mercy In This Land', for a world that needs that sort of peace right now. And what better than the spirit of the blues? That are as soothing to yearning or roadside wandering hearts like a tended whiskey slid over the bar and placed on top of a cocktail napkin at the end of a long and winding day. And in the catalogue of all the collaborations the epic, eclectic Harper has constantly created and curated (from his Fistful Of Mercy supergroup, to the gospel of the Blind Boys of Alabama or even his own mother Ellen for 'My Childhood Home'), between reuniting with the Innocent Criminals for 2016's 'Call It Like It Is' and the rumor of getting the Relentless7 band back together for the next go round, no one has quite left as indelible mark on Harper than the legendary blues muscle of Musselwhite. Charlie kisses the harmonica like the great love of his life. Whilst Ben meticulously and tenderly cradles his trademark slide guitar like a craftsman working a lathe. And together in soul they hone this music with all their heart, giving new color to the blues.

Looks like these two actually are looking twice with their second album. And after the traditional blues of 'When I Go' sets everything off like stomping feet, 'Bad Habits' shows the ever lyrical Harper writing more classic couplets that rhyme with the reasons the blues were born. "When a man gives you his hat/He's living on borrowed time/The shoe fit so I wore it/But I left one lace untied" the man who once told us "you have to live my life to get boots like these" warns as he sings and brings wisdom to what otherwise would be a life cliche. These creations continue on the blood and bone of 'Love and Trust'. That as Harper plays the slide like a harp with Musselwhite in harmonica harmony gives us gospel, writing, "Like a horse in a race/That doesn't want to run/An executioner who won't fire his gun/Like a boxer who won't take a swing/Like a prince/Who don't want to be a king/Haven't we suffered/Suffered enough/Now we're out here fighting/About some love and trust". As the man influenced by Marvin, Martin and all sorts of kings like B.B. refuses to muddy the waters of what's really going on. But the maverick man of modern music with more meaning doesn't just point fingers without turning them inward as he takes a few shots, some subliminal and some just straight on 'The Bottle Wins Again', yearning, "Broken hearts and broken dreams/Turns out they weigh the same/Passed down through generations/Like the family name/There's a gilded coat of arms/For those who heal from within/But tonight the bottle wins again". Then the beautiful ballad 'Found The One' really haunts the heart like the first dance of matrimony. Before it ends up being the last one too as the brooding returns to shoulder the pain of loss. This is the blues after all.

"Everybody says I love you/But not everybody lives I love you". "I could've held you more carefully/And I suppose you could've been there for me". "Choosing not to remember/Is no way to forget/That's just a losing bet". "These old streets of shame/Will they ever look the same/Will they remember our name"Just ask the dust". On arguably the most lyrical of all the laments on this disc for the record, Harper tells us a tale of 'When Love Is Not Enough' just mere seconds after 'Found A One' fades out. He pulls no punches after he's gut checked with a black eye from the blues. Back at the bar with a cup of blues poured to the brim the innocent criminal who once warned us "not to stand insincere at the side of my grave", brings those contrasting couplets back to the barstools bedside manner as he slams the shovel in. "Spend your whole life with one woman/Die and leave her your farm/The very next day she's on your best friend's arm/There ain't no worries/You can't drink away". Clicking with the spurs of those wild ones that still live in the old west the man who has now made the fedora his trademark is as rhinestone as the slicked back shirts of Musselwhite. And the pair play it again like Sam for the 'No Mercy In This Land' title-track as Musslewhite mourns, "Father left us down here all alone/My poor mother is under a stone/With an aching heart and trembling hands/Is there no mercy in this land". With a vivid vocal from behind the harmonica that aches and trembles with leather worn, brutual beauty of the very words he sings. All from a man who has been through it all and will tell us more than we will ever likely see. Harper gets clever for those who "learned to hustle, but never learned to dance" on 'Movin' On' as he rolls, "Won me in a poker game/Lost me in a bet/Then you got the nerve/To turn around and get upset". Before the beautiful blemishes of the slow-burn closer 'Nothing At All' really brings those bitter and sweet life lessons, that hauntingly and heartbreakingly never leave you like an inner scar only you can see. "This world's too hard to not have someone break my fall/We climb this world stone by stone/We love each other bone by bone/There are sins for which one just cannot atone/There's a price we pay/For the places we lay", Harper sings over strained strings and the man playing behind him in black that will always have his back 'till the bones. 'Get Up' got a Grammy. There will be the very name of this album if 'Land' doesn't at least lay the groundwork for another one. Whether an award or album for this trilogies conclusion. Lord have mercy. TIM DAVID HARVEY.