We start with Penguin Cafe Orchestra, an avant-pop band led by English guitarist Simon Jeffes. Co-founded with cellist Helen Liebmann, the band toured extensively during the 1980s and 1990s. The band's sound is not easily categorized, having elements of exuberant folk music and a minimalist aesthetic occasionally reminiscent of composers such as Philip Glass. Here's the haunting Telephone and Rubber Band, which I first heard in the Australian film Malcom (1986) from their second LP Penguin Cafe Orchestra (E.G. 1981). Brilliant.
Next up, New York no-wavers and alt-rock combo Sonic Youth, with Cotton Crown (originally titled Kotton Krown), from their fourth studio LP, the classic Sister (SST 1987)
The Stone Poneys were a folk-rock trio featuring the young Linda Ronstadt. Their biggest hit single, a cover of Michael (Monkees) Nesmith's Different Drum (Capitol 7" 1967) controversially didn't feature the other two members and was Linda's first hit. This was a ploy by the record company to separate Linda and promote her as a solo artist ditching the two men. This was typical record industry action in the 60s, one of the commonest reasons record companies are so loathed.
Wilco is an American rock band based in Chicago. The band was formed in 1994 by the remaining members of alternative country group Uncle Tupelo after singer Jay Farrar's departure. This is the excellent Pot Kettle Black, from their fourth studio LP Yankee Hotel Foxtrot (Nonesuch 2002), though the band self-released it in late 2001 after theirr then record label Reprise refused to release it.
We conclude with London's second wave punk band with reggae influences The Ruts. We conclude with their debut single In A Rut (People Unite 7" 1979) and the official video for third single Something That I Said (Virgin 7" 1979). Until next week ... Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Warm Winter Solstice, Happy Holidays to you all.
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