Rock

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews the new album by REM: "Out of Time," which he says has a diffidence and reserve that sets it apart from the group's string of albums over the past ten years.

Rock historian Ed Ward looks back at some of the best soul music of the 70s. Rhino Records has just released a series of CDs collecting the best hits of that decade.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews the "Bob Dylan: The Bootleg Series," a three-CD set which covers three decades of Dylan's career. Tucker says it's interesting, but doesn't match Dylan's official albums.

Parker has been singing and writing songs for 15 years. He is known for his angry, biting lyrics. He's just produced his 14th album, "Struck by Lightning," which reveals Parker's new, mature perspective on life.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews two new solo albums, from Susanna Hoffs, a member of the Bangles, and from Alexander O'Neal. Both artists explore the theme of masculinity in their music.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews the singer-songwriter's "Night Ride Home," which he says is a return to the pop sound that marked her great, earlier albums.

Rock historian Ed Ward remembers the singer, whose legacy includes some excellent rockabilly masterpieces alongside his country and western work.

Baker had a series of hits in the 50s, among them "Bumblebee," and "Jim Dandy to the Rescue." During her hiatus from performing in the United States, she lived in the Philippines and booked concerts for American soldiers.

Rock historian Ed Ward plays some of the forgotten recordings released by the Apple Label. The label was started by the Beatles, whose members often produced those records.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews Graham Parker's new album, "Struck by Lightning." He says it breaks the singer's streak of flops.