R&B

A book documents the history of an influential 1960s British TV music show. Plus, CDs from Solomon Burke, Sensational Country Blues Wonders, Paul Winter, and Felix Hatfield.

An excellent set of Bob Dylan covers by Emma Swift, plus country from Rachel Brooke, folk from Jordan Tice, and more Little Richard reissues.

Two Little Richard reissues show off his flamboyant personality without measuring up to his '50s heyday, plus excellent new releases from Jim Kweskin and Samoa Wilson and from Dirk Powell.

A 1950s reissue series features the Crests, Duprees, Rivieras, and Adam Wade. Plus, the soulful Adam Wade and blues-rock from Savoy Brown.

The Pretenders are back with a strong 10-song set, plus Sylvie Simmons, early doo-wop, and a band called Nocona.

Folksinger John McCutcheon delivers songs inspired by the pandemic. Plus, reissues from the Staples Singers and new music from LeRoux, the Wildmans and Anthony Geraci.

Teddy Thompson's first solo album since 2016 is a winner. Plus, a stirring release from the Alan Lomax archives; new CDs from Joe Ely, G.F. Patrick, and Gravel & Grace; and an Elliott Murphy movie.

Just in time for the 2020 Grammys, here is my annual list of top releases of 2019 (including Baroness, Lana Del Rey, Neil Young, Lizzo, and Slipknot).

A three-CD anthology showcases the Honeycombs, a British Invasion group. Plus, Wild Rabbit Salad, the Lil Smokies, and previously unheard work from the Righteous Brothers’ Bobby Hatfield.

A massive box set explores Pink Floyd’s post-1985 work. Plus, CDs from Seamus Egan and Big Mike.