New CDs in stores today include a rock icon’s first release from his own record label, a toned-down country album from one of the genre’s outspoken patriots and the first half of a highly anticipated Rick Rubin-produced double disc.
“Magic Time,” Van Morrison (Exile): This is the impetus for the mini-tour that brings the Belfast Cowboy to Denver for the first time in a quarter-century. The sold-out show could be the Colorado concert event of the summer. Early reviews indicate the album, released on Morrison’s Exile Music Recording, underscores Morrison’s standing as one of rock’s most soulful, transcendent singers.
“HonkyTonk University,” Toby Keith (Dreamworks Nashville): It might not be evident from this CD’s cowgirl-cheerleader cover art, but this country music everyman reportedly showcases tempered maturity on his new album. Keith’s last album, “Shock ‘N’ Y’all,” was one of last year’s top sellers and could be a tough act to follow. The new album includes a duet with the legendary Merle Haggard.
“Mezmerize,” System of a Down (Columbia): This is the first half of what’s being billed as the “Mezmerize/Hypnotize” double album. The second disc is due later this year. Metalheads who caught the band’s kamikaze gig at the Ogden Theatre a few weeks ago were treated to some of the material from this Rick Rubin-produced project, but don’t worry if you missed out: This summer, System headlines a major U.S. tour with The Mars Volta and other guests booked into the lineup.
– Elana Ashanti Jefferson
