Talking Book, released in 1972, is a gem among gems from Stevie Wonder’s classic period. Innovative instrumentation played by Wonder, fantastic vocal arrangements and classic songs including “Superstition” and “You Are The Sunshine of My Life”, make this my favorite of Wonder’s twenty six albums. Hear why on the Slang Of Ages Podcast.

Fantastic new arrangements with a great band and Jose James’ vocals. How can this not be great? Add into it Erykah Badu’s gifts as a lyricist and you have yet another great Jose James album. Sure he’s a gifted composer but his arranging and vocals talents are just as formidable. I can't wait to get my vinyl! Favorite track: Gone Baby, Don't Be Long (feat. Ebban Dorsey).

José James - vocals, bells, singing bowl, Bali metal tongue drum

Ebban Dorsey - alto saxophone (tracks 1, 2, 4, 5)

Diana Dzhabbar - flute, alto saxophone (tracks 1, 3, 7)

BIGYUKI - piano, fender rhodes, wurlitzer, hammond B-3, synthesizers

Ben Williams - bass

Jharis Yokley - drums

Neil Young releases his first Geffen Records album (and part of his $1 million per album commitment) but it's not quite what the label or fans were hoping for. Young’s attempt to demonstrate communications difficulties ( inspired by his therapy work with his son who has cerebral palsy) stands up better in 2023 than it did in 1983. Check out episode #2 as I discuss Trans.

Welcome back! Season 4 starts with British singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading’s 1988 masterpiece, The Shouting Stage. Never heard of Joan? The Basseterre born singer is the first Black British singer to enjoy international fame and continues to be a significant presence in the music world.

Preston and returning guest Joe Williams revisit concerts by Prince, David Byrne, St. Vincent, Ozomatli and other acts you may or may not heard of.

Special thanks to supporters Rolando Guzman, Vinicio Cifuentes, Mark Anthony K, Cheryl Frazier,Susan Frazier and Joe Williams.

In this special edition of the Slang of Ages podcast trumpeter, producer and composer Michael Leonhart talks to Preston on his work with rapper JSWISS, his Michael Leonhart Orchestra album The Norman Suites and Steely Dan.

The Season Three finale features a chat with Deborah Holland rekindled their working relationship with Stanley Clarke and Stewart Copeland, resulting in the two new tracks, “Can You Tell Me” and “Ordinary”.

The songs will be released digitally on November 18 and will be available on all streaming platforms. They can also be purchased via Bandcamp at: https://animallogic1.bandcamp.com/

Preston welcomes back Mark Anthony K for the penultimate episode of Season 3. They discuss Yes, 1980 release, Drama. Check out Mark’s music at projektgemineye.com.

Sharon Robinson is a Grammy award winning writer. She’s a producer and a phenomenal vocalists. In a call back to episode 1 of this season, Ms. Robinson discusses her latest project, “My Time with Leonard Cohen”.

American Icon, Nobel prize recipient and voice of a generation has 39 albums under his belt. Some are not great, mot are good and a few, like Oh mercy (1989) are pure magic.