Lush ★★★★ Gala 4AD. CD/DL/LP Shoegazing pioneers’ early-career ...

2025 has been a breakthrough year for soul gospel sensations ANNIE & THE CALDWELLS . A major new album, the patronage of David Byrne and ecstatic live shows have expanded their base beyond West Point, Mississippi to the global stage. Catching up with the Southern matriarch, her husband, daughters and goddaughter in Nashville, Stephen Deusner hears how their mission to spread joy to their audiences is the culmination of a lifelong dream. “I have to smile and tell God thank you because He could have chosen anybody to do this.”

Fondly remembered this month...

30 JACKIE MITTOO Reggae Magic SOUL JAZZ ...

IN the rear of her stationary motor-taxi, a young milliner reached up a careful gloved hand to pat her black-felt cloche, snug on her smart, fair curls. Constance Smart had been sitting patiently for

Deep Purple’s longest-serving guitarist Steve Morse on the records, artists and gigs of lasting significance to him.