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Slanted Enchantments [2]
The erection and survival of the Indie record label, Drag City.
— Douglas Wolk, THE BOSTON PHOENIX
 
New Traditionalists [3]
Indie Label Bloodshot Records brings Alterna-Country music to life.
— Allison Stewart, THE BOSTON PHOENIX
 
World Party [4]
David Byrne's label, Luaka Bop, brings world music to the masses.
— Josh Kun, THE BOSTON PHOENIX
 
Pointing Ahead [5]
Local label signs Fairport Convention.
— Michael McCall, NASHVILLE SCENE
 

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Chief Priest of the Shrine [6]
The epic life story of Nigerian soul superstar Fela Kuti.
— David Lynch, AUSTIN CHRONICLE
 
Grandaddy Of 'Em All [7]
For a newish band, Grandaddy plays with the assurance of old-timers.
— Stephen Seigel, TUCSON WEEKLY
 
Avant Calling [8]
Blonde Redhead finds itself in the company of two large mainstream rock bands.
— Linda Laban, THE BOSTON PHOENIX
 

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Celebrating Satchmo [9]
Louis Armstrong's centennial is celebrated in a series of new reissues.
— Ron Wynn, NASHVILLE SCENE
 
Sister Act [10]
Sinead O'Connor returns to her old pop sound.
— Lois Maffeo, THE BOSTON PHOENIX
 
Jazz Tip [11]
Pucho and the Latin Soul Brothers.
— John MacCalkies, NEWCITY CHICAGO
 

ela Kuti has no real equal. The late Nigerian musician was a superconductor of social criticism and a hot fusion of musical muscle. Through head-swaying harmonies and memorable melodies, his message traveled past Nigeria's colonial-made boundaries, struggling from oppression while retaining a sense of humor and self-worth.

As record companies, jazz musicians, and music fans prepare to celebrate the centennial of the great Louis Armstrong, questions and controversies that were debated throughout his career are again being examined, and his music is being reissued.

The Boston Phoenix catches us up on three independent record companies that are marking significant anniversaries: Drag City, Bloodshot, and Luaka Bop.

Also, Sinéad O'Connor's new album illuminates the opposing forces at work in her, Blonde Redhead on the road in impressive company, and more.

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Boston Phoenix CD Reviews [12]

• Rose Polenzani
• Hefner
• Nerf Herder
• Chris Smither
• The Delgados
• Duke Heitger
• T-Model Ford
• B.B. King and Eric Clapton

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