More cowbell

The latest series of Daryl's House (Darryl Hall's fantasy/vanity project where, going back to 2007, he's been curating some of the greatest songs and songwriters in his 'shed') is probably, in my humble opinion, the best yet; or if not the best, certainly the most varied and therefore the most rewarding. Hall's musical chops know no bounds and so scattergun in nature is his thirst for music, it matters not a jot who knocks on his door - he'll welcome any waif or stray carrying an instrument case.

I've chosen three from the clutch of episodes that were broadcast in November and December last year. Glenn Tilbrook (Ep. 85) is a natural for this sort of format. But even he says on camera that unlike the looseness of his regular band Squeeze, slotting into Daryl Hall's crack band of musical heavyweights made him tighten up considerably. Look at the way he glances over at Hall, as much for reassurance, seemingly, as an unspoken "I hope to fuck you're coming in with the second verse."

Glenn Tilbrook & Daryl Hall - Hourglass (2023)

Next up is Howard Jones (Ep. 87). By his own admission he tells us that he started his musical journey relying almost exclusively on drum machines, sequencers and keyboards. Watch in sheer amazement then as the band tear What is Love a new one. This is such a joyous performance. When Jones is giving his post-match interview I don't think he can quite believe what has just happened.

Howard Jones & Daryl Hall - What is Love? (2023)

I know Robert Fripp (Ep. 90) didn't write Heroes. Daryl Hall knows Robert Fripp didn't write Heroes. But it was Fripp's guitar that, many say, carried Bowie's 1977 anthem. This is special. Even Robert Fripp knows it was special. You can see he's quite humbled at the end.

Robert Fripp & Daryl Hall - Heroes (2023)

So there you go. I'd heartily recommend you dig out the full episodes and watch them in their entirety. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Let me know what you think.

...

Blue Eyed Soul

Blue Eyed Soul was a lazy catch all phrase that some music hack coined back in the sixties to describe anyone with white skin having the audacity to sing rhythm and blues or soul music.
And everyone from Rod Stewart to Adele, via Paul Young and Mick Hucknall, has subsequently been burdened with the tag. It should be redundant now, but you will still see a rake of compilation albums bearing the name, and flyers too for various club nights; as the duty roster included the likes of George Michael and Spandau Ballet, you'd know to leave your parka on the coat hook and your scooter in the garage. Northern Soul it is not.

One of the names (well, two to be precise) constantly mentioned when Blue Eyed Soul gets a name-check is Hall & Oates. Their take on all things soulful was never anything less than luxurious. It all sounded so effortless. And frighteningly good, too: Kiss on My List was just about as good as it got.

Here's a version Daryl Hall did as part of his Daryl's House series - a couple of octaves lower and a tad slower, I think it shades the original.

I don't need a reason why

Call that a beard?

This is a beard

Billy Gibbons may well be able to play the guitar better than me. He may even be able to grow a mightier beard than me. 

However, I wouldn't fancy his chances if we went head to head chowing down a bowl of Heinz tomato soup.

Daryl Hall and Billy Gibbons: 'Sharp Dressed Men Man'

Can we still be friends?

For anyone not familiar with Daryl's House, Daryl Hall gets out his little black book, picks up the phone and asks his musical mates to come round to his and play a few tunes in the den. A couple of microphones are set up, a rudimentary camera and before you know it they're making sweet sweet music. Here's what happened when Todd Rundgren swung by, guitar in hand, and rang the front door bell.

It's Time I Took a Holiday

I'm slipping anchor for a few days. This monkey's been falling out of too many trees lately. Be back before you know it. Leave a message after the beep.