Author: Matthew Greenwald

Matthew Greenwald has had a busy and checkered 20-year career as a musician, music journalist and general raconteur. Retiring for several years, CultureSonar resurrects him for better or worse. His current musical adventures call themselves The Mojo Two, based in San Clemente (but a safe distance from Nixon’s former Western White House).

by Matthew Greenwald February 11, 2018 Comments0

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Isaac Hayes Invokes the Spirit of Memphis

If all you know is “Theme from ‘Shaft’,” get schooled on this incredible catalog.

by Matthew Greenwald February 2, 2018 Comments2

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The Beginning of the Stones, the End of the Yardbirds

Two new box sets reveal previously unheard moments (‘cause the early screaming got in the way).

by Matthew Greenwald December 25, 2017 Comments0

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Christmas Is Always Better With “Linus and Lucy”

“Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown!” The sweet story behind Vince Guaraldi’s recording of our favorite holiday soundtrack.

John Lee Hooker

by Matthew Greenwald November 27, 2017 Comments0

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John Lee Hooker’s “King of the Boogie”: 100 Years in the Making

Rare tracks coupled with guest appearances from Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana make this 5-CD box-set a worthy tribute to the legendary bluesman.

beatles mono albums

by Matthew Greenwald October 7, 2017 Comments1

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One Track Mind: The Beatles in Mono

Mono reissues can be a total re-discovery of the music you know, especially when it comes to The Beatles catalog.