“THE JAZZ SINGER”

This rarity, a 1959 NBC special, stars Jerry Lewis in a dramatic role previously played by Al Jolson and Danny Thomas, later by Neil Diamond. Until now, it had only aired once and was available just as a bootleg from a kinescope. This new release presents the show in a restored, color version, direct from Lewis’ personal archives. The comic gives an impressive, moving, relatively restrained performance. The colorful supporting cast includes Eduard Franz, Molly Picon, Alan Reed and Anna Maria Alberghetti (who co-starred with Lewis in “Cinderfella”). More than a curiosity, this is a great piece of television history.

“CINEMATIC TITANIC LIVE: WAR OF THE INSECTS”

A year-and-a-half was too long to wait for a new Cinematic Titanic extravaganza. The gang is back with a vengeance, verbally assaulting the buggy science-fiction flick “War of the Insects” (AKA “Genocide”). They take a dried-out turd of a movie and turn it into a fresh, steaming pile of hilarity. The satiric jabs come in fast and furious fashion. Joel Hodgson, Trace Beaulieu, Mary Jo Pehl, J. Elvis Weinstein and Frank Conniff have perfected the zany, clever, comedic art form they pioneered with ‘Mystery Science Theatre 3000.” Grab this one and get ready for guffaws galore.

“POUND OF FLESH” Available on DVD and Blu-Ray, this movie works as social commentary, as well as detective story. The most convincing, compelling performance comes from Malcolm McDowell, as a college Shakespeare professor who moonlights by procuring co-eds for politicians and businessmen. Also in the cast are Angus Macfadyen, Timothy Bottoms and Dee Wallace. The film was written and directed by Tamar Simon Hoffs, mother of The Bangles’ Susanna Hoffs.

“X - THE UNHEARD MUSIC”

This new, restored version of the outstanding documentary includes added footage and bonus interviews with John Doe and Exene Cervenka. Since their late ‘70s emergence from the L.A. punk scene, X has been one of rock’s most influential and important bands. Available on Blu-Ray, as well as DVD, this release puts the X phenomenon in context, exploring the era and the Southern California surroundings. It reveals much about the band members, both in terms of personality and creativity. There are electrifying performances, including a cover of “Soul Kitchen” with The Doors’ Ray Manzarek. But the candid, off-stage moments are equally riveting.

“COLIN QUINN: LONG STORY SHORT”

On DVD and Blu-Ray, this comedy special represents a new peak for Quinn, previously known for his work on “SNL,” MTV’s “Remote Control” and Comedy Central’s “Tough Crowd.” Conceived as an off-Broadway production, directed by Jerry Seinfeld, the show chronicles the rise and fall of empires, proving how history repeats itself. Very funny and very perceptive, Quinn’s one-man show is a triumph. Even if you caught this on HBO, you should pick up the disc for the extras, especially a commentary track that has Quinn and Seinfeld riffing back and forth.

THE DOORS - “L.A. WOMAN (40TH ANNIVERSARY)”

Let’s get right down to the essential question - for Doors fans who have every previously released version of this classic album, is it essential to run out and purchase this new double CD? Answer: Absolutely! The second disc is filled with alternate takes, showing the band’s studio dynamic and the paths the songs flow along as they evolve. The rawness, flubs and casual conversation give the listener a fly-on-the-wall sensation. It’s a priceless insight into the making of the boozy, bluesy album. There’s also a newly discovered tune, “She Smells So Nice.”

DION - “TANK FULL OF BLUES”

Through every period of Dion DiMucci’s remarkable career - Belmonts’ doo-wop, iconic rock ‘n’ roll, message folk, Christian and blues - his distinctive voice delivers each lyric with the utmost honesty and emotional power. His latest album surges with potent blues-rock that has a timeless appeal. With words that are revealing, perceptive and clever, Dion pours his heart into each song. The authenticity of his vocals could make you believe that the Bronx is adjacent to the Mississippi Delta. The closing track, the spoken “Bronx Poem,” offers Dion’s cascade of wisdom, confession, brotherhood and gratitude. Other highlights include “I Read It (In The Rolling Stone)” and the rollicking “I’m Ready To Go.” This vibrant septuagenarian remains as relevant and soulful as ever.

PABLO CRUISE - IT’S GOOD TO BE LIVE”

This is an entertaining bargain that includes a live performance bonus DVD and new versions of “A Place In The Sun” and “Love Will Find A Way.” The ‘70s California pop band still sounds great and this set is a lot of fun.

VARIOUS ARTISTS: “CHIMES OF FREEDOM: THE SONGS OF BOB DYLAN HONORING 50 YEARS OF AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL”

An astounding collection of music, to benefit one of the worthiest of causes - Amnesty International, an organization that battles injustice on a global basis. The four-CD, 73-track compilation features a wide stylistic array of Dylan interpretations, encompassing new studio recordings, as well as several previously unreleased live tracks. In addition to natural choices like Joan Baez, The Dave Matthews Band, Jackson Browne, Steve Earle, Patti Smith, Kris Kristofferson, Lucinda Williams, Elvis Costello, Billy Bragg and Pete Seeger, the delightfully diverse and surprising roster includes such artists as My Chemical Romance, Adele, Marianne Faithfull, Angelique Kidjo, Diana Krall, Raphael Saadiq, Pete Townshend, Mariachi El Bronx, Bryan Ferry, Bad Religion, Jeff Beck, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Evan Rachel Wood, Maroon 5, and Taj Mahal.

ELVIS PRESLEY - ELVIS COUNTRY: LEGACY EDITION”

This new double-CD release includes two complete 1971 Elvis albums, “I Was Born About 10,000 Years Ago - Elvis Country” and “Love Letters From Elvis.” You also get six bonus tracks. The studio jam, “A Hundred Years From Now,” is one of those gems. The performances range from fiery to sensitive to overwrought. But there are enough real winners here, such as “Whole Lotta Shakin” and “Where Did They Go, Lord,” to make this a must-have. In addition to Elvis’ one-of-a-kind voice, listeners can revel in James Burton’s always tasty guitar licks.

JANIE FRICKE - “COUNTRY SIDE OF BLUEGRASS”

A hitmaker in the 1980s, Fricke continues to please her country fans. On her latest album, she adds a delicious bluegrass flavor to her greatest hits. Highlights include “You Don’t Know Love,” “She’s Single Again” and “It Ain’t Easy.” She puts her stamp on classics like “Ring of Fire,” as well. Her vocals brim with feeling.

VONDA SHEPARD - “SOLO”

Shepard has earned a fervent following with her stunning vocals. Now you can enjoy them unadorned, on her new album, “Solo.” The results are strikingly lovely. Accompanied only by her piano, she dazzles with such gems as “Soothe Me,” “Baby Don’t You Break My Heart Slow” and riveting cover of “Walk Away Renee.” Even in this “Idol” age, no frills no studio bells and whistles are required. There’s nothing more powerful than a heartfelt vocal. And Shepard delivers, time and time again. With unobtrusive help from her husband, super producer Mitchell Froom, she delicately fashions an intimate listening experience with this new record.

VARIOUS ARTISTS - “THE AFRICA PROJECT” CD/DVD

This beautifully conceived project demonstrates what a wonderful unifier music can be. Filmmaker Joe Baker, the founder of the Bay Recorders Organization, utilizing his vast experience in field recording, brought together the songs and musicians of Africa and North America, bridging the cultures and traditions of both continents. The results, recorded in South Africa, Ghana and the U.S., are uplifting, exhilarating and consistently fascinating. A spectrum of voices and instruments creates unique interpretations of African native songs, as well as such material as “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” and “I’ll Fly Away.” Proceeds from sales go to Ghana Initiative for Valued Education (G.I.V.E., www.giveghana.org) and Amajika Performing Arts Education (NCD Foundation, www.tunokwe.com). Original creations also came out of the collaborations. The album is accompanied by a compelling DVD, detailing the process of realizing this ambitious project. For more information, or to order, go to www.bayrecorders.org/tap.

MR. GNOME - MADNESS IN MINIATURE”

The wildly imaginative Cleveland husband-and-wife duo, singer/guitarist Nicole Barille and drummer/keyboardist Sam Meister, returns with a mesmerizing new album. With inventive arrangements and instrumentation, clever effects and intriguing compositions, Mr. Gnome recklessly dances across genre tightropes, touching upon prog, art rock, punk, metal and pop. weaving in plenty of wonderful weirdness throughout. Like Barille’s voice, the music displays miraculous depth, dynamics and diversity.

ARETHA FRANKLIN - “KNEW YOU WERE WAITING”

This collection offers “The Best of Aretha Franklin 1980-1998.” It’s a strong and soulful reminder of the power of her later work. There are Grammy winners here, like “Freeway of Love” and the title track, a duet with George Michael. A teaming with Whitney Houston is among the other high points, as is the sassy “Who’s Zoomin’ Who.” There are tracks with The Eurythmics, Elton John, George Benson and Michael McDonald. But, of course, it’s the Queen of Soul herself whose thrilling vocals rule.

VARIOUS ARTISTS - “GOLDEN GATE GROOVE: THE SOUND OF PHILADELPHIA, LIVE IN SAN FRANCISCO 1973”

If you like time tripping, you’ll enjoy this extraordinary concert. Recorded at the Fairmont Hotel during CBS Records’ 1973 company convention, it presents the pride and joy of ‘70s Philadelphia - The O’Jays, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes (featuring Teddy Pendergrass), The Three Degrees and Billy Paul. The MFSB Orchestra (including Leon Huff on piano and Thom Bell on organ), provides a lushly soulful soundscape. It’s cool to hear live versions of such iconic tunes as “Me and Mrs. Jones,” “If You Don’t Know Me By Now,” “Back Stabbers” and the ever relevant “When The World’s At Peace.”

SUSAN ANDERS - “SWIMMER”

If you haven’t yet stumbled upon this album, seek it out. Anders proves to be a brilliant songwriter, summoning deeply personal lyrics that touch on the universal journey of life, as we struggle though trials and tribulations. Stylistically, she wends her way through pop, jazz and Americana sensibilities. Her vocals are beautiful throughout. Among the top tracks are “Love Beats Time,” “Astronauts,” “I Can’t Fix You,” ”I Forgot I Was Strong” and “Forgiveness.”

“ESSENTIAL ROSANNE CASH”

This double-CD collection is the perfect reminder of the fact that Rosanne Cash is one of our finest singer-songwriters. The tracks here reveal her life and soul as readily as her autobiography, “Composed,” does. Her vocals always carry the ring of truth, whether on her own unforgettable tunes, like “Seven Year Ache,” “Can I Still Believe In You” and “The Real Me” or on interpretations of John Hiatt’s “The Way We Make a Broken Heart” and Mickey Newbury’s “Sweet Memories.” Included are duets with Bobby Bare, Vince Gill, Rodney Crowell, Johnny Cash and Bruce Springsteen. All 36 of the songs here are essential listening, indeed.

DAVE STEWART - “BLACKBIRD DIARIES”

The British rock icon (Eurythmics) pays homage to Americana music, issuing original songs he recorded at Nashville’s Blackbird studios. The material is strong and includes “Worth the Waiting For,” which Stewart co-wrote with Bob Dylan. There are guest appearances by Stevie Nicks, Martina McBride, Colbie Caillat and the Secret Sisters. The result is roots music with a fresh feel. Stewart proves once again that he’s deserving of greater attention and acclaim.

“LET IT BE ROBERTA - ROBERTA FLACK SINGS THE BEATLES”

It’s been eight years between studio albums for Ms. Flack. We’d say it was definitely worth the wait. Her interpretations of Beatles’ classics are rich in surprises and delights. She doesn’t overpower the material, choosing to enhance the songs through nuance and soulful subtlety. The gently jazzy arrangements are thoughtful and varied. Among the most effective tracks are “We Can Work It Out,” the bluesy “Oh Darling” and “Here, There and Everywhere.” Beatle covers often prove disastrous. In this case, they’re sublime.

“KENNY OLSON CARTEL”

Best known as Kid’ Rock’s lead guitarist, Olson shows he could teach Kid a thing or two about rockin’ out. His debut album, “Kenny Olson Cartel,” bristles, displaying plenty of grit. “Rebel With A Cause” is an instant classic. The first single, “Up All Night,” is another winner. Olson can effectively use some subtle blues licks, as well as driving, edgy rock riffs. The rasp in dramatic lead singer Jon Nicholson’s voice adds urgency to ballads and ballsy tunes alike. He and Olson go soulful on “Wade in the Water.”

KATY BOYD - “PAPER HEARTS”

Originally from Menlo Park, Ca., Boyd gained acclaim in the U.K., especially through her teaming with Benny Wain. This new solo album provides an outstanding collection of Americana tunes. The exceptional singer-songwriter’s lovely voice is adept at delivering poignant and wistful expressions. She’s also a masterful storyteller, painting vivid, believable and moving scenarios in her lyrics. Among the great songs here are “Mama,” “Time Machine,” “I’ m Not Depressed,” “Can’t Find My Way Home,” ”Colors” and “Circus Folk.”

SCORPIONS - “COMEBLACK”

They’ve been around since 1965 and Germany’s premier metal band prove they never lost their ability to power their way through rock anthems. This new Legacy release includes new versions of such classic Scorpions’ tunes as “Rock You Like A Hurricane,” giving them a fresh energy. In addition, there are cool covers of such songs as “Tainted Love,” “Across The Universe,” “Ruby Tuesday” and “All Day And All of the Night.”

“IF YOU LIKE THE BEATLES...” BY BRUCE POLLOCK

“If You Like The Beatles... Here Are Over 200 Bands, Films. Records and Other Oddities You Will Love.” No doubt about it, if you have even a passing interest in the Fab Four, you’ll be enthralled by this fun book. It explores everything that influenced The Beatles, as well as everything on which they had an impact. It will inevitably lead to intrigued readers dashing off to dig up some of the records mentioned, eager to experience them first-hand. The list of cover versions of Beatle tunes alone is worth the price of admission. Did you know that Peter Sellers recorded “Can’t Buy Me Love”? Rock author/authority Pollock has assembled a highly entertaining book.