R&B

1960 is not exactly considered a peak year for popular music, and there's no shortage of drivel in this collection, but there are also dozens of great songs from the likes of Roy Orbison, Sam Cooke, and Ray Charles.

We can argue about the wisdom behind the decisions to induct—or not induct—various artists into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. What seems undebatable is whether its annual induction ceremonies have been musically memorable.

Nyro’s music was superb from the word go, thanks to her soulful mezzo vocal work, intimate and poetic lyrics, surprising rhythmic inventions, and unique blend of pop,  Motown, doo-wop, rock, folk, jazz, gospel, and R&B.

...and just when you think things can’t get any hotter, Steve Van Zandt shows up to sing and play guitar on the show’s five final numbers.

Reviews of new albums, including Jimi Hendrix's Electrtic Lady Studios, Al Stewart's 50th-anniversary edition of Past, Present & Future, an Ike Turner collection, and more.

The Continental Drifters garner the spotlight, thanks to an anthology, a tribute album, and a bio. Plus, reviews of CDs from Phil Alvin, John Surge, and Bento Box Trio.

A new anthology features country rock pioneer Steve Young. Plus, reviews of CDs from Cat Stevens and Lightnin' Hopkins.

Reviews of an exhaustive Rascals box, plus Johnny Cash, Nektar, and more.

You’ll have to dig through a bit of fool’s gold to find it, but if you’re a fan of Joe Meek’s work and the so-called girl-group era, you will encounter some gems.

An anthology spotlights California's Laurel Canyon music scene. Plus, reviews of CDs from Robert Hunter, Roy Brown, Soft Machine, and Jay Gordon.