Toby Jones Talks Music

Stars On 45 released a medley of hits by The Beatles in 1980, followed by an album-length 16-minute version on their Long Play Album LP, featuring 30 songs originally made famous by the band.

I may have gone a bit overboard… 26 new 7" singles added to the collection 😅There’s just something really fun about them. Great artwork, quick listens, and that classic vinyl feel without the commitment of a full album. What did I find? And the big question: how much damage did I do to my wallet?

Sometimes it's enough to listen to an album, focus on the album itself, look through the liner notes, enjoy the album artwork, and perhaps even admire other albums by that artist, or indeed other artists in your collection... This is all about the joy of being surrounded by my favourite things in my life, my albums.

Not just another music biopic… Michael is more than that, telling a compelling story of Michael Jackson’s rise to fame while celebrating everything that makes music so great!Michael - The story of pop superstar Michael Jackson -- from his extraordinary early days in the Jackson 5 to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fuels a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.

Mckenna Grace’s Bittersweet 16 embraces a pop-punk direction, setting it apart from the more introspective tone of her fantastic Autumn Leaves EP. It blends commercial pop with punk and rock influences, but does retain that emotional core, albeit with slightly less impact than Autumn Leaves.

John Denver’s Back Home Again offers a collection of songs that can feel like a comfort blanket, while also delivering poignant and profound reflections on life, and living - especially striking in today’s fast, dopamine-fuelled world.

On The Threshold Of A Dream, the third in a run of seven classic Moody Blues albums, was my introduction to the band and provided the gateway to many more albums in their catalogue. In this video, I share the story of how I discovered it.

Tap Root Manuscript (1970) was Neil Diamond’s most experimental - and riskiest - album to date. After hinting at gospel influences in “Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show” and “Holly Holy,” he fully commits here, devoting the second side to an African-inspired folk suite. The first side features four originals and a cover, including his breakthrough hit in the UK, “Cracklin’ Rosie.”

Sailing To Philadelphia, released in 2000, marks Mark Knopfler's second solo studio album, following up Golden Heart, released four years earlier in 1996. I'm listening to these albums as part of the Studio Albums 1996-2007. In this video, I examine whether Sailing To Philadelphia is a good follow-up to Golden Heart, and whether it's an album worth listening to in its own right.

"Touching You, Touching Me" was the final release of the 1960s for Neil Diamond, his third album with Uni Records, and his second of 1969 after "Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show". Released after the success of "Sweet Caroline" and "Holly Holy", this album can be seen as the label trying to capitalise on the success of these two singles. However, does the entirety of "Touching You, Touching Me" retain the consistency of these two singles, and how does it compare to the first release of the year, as well as 1968's "Velvet Gloves And Spit"?

Golden Heart, Mark Knopfler's first solo studio album, released in 1996, was an album that I didn't get much from on my first listen back in 2022.Revisiting this album in 2026 - in a different mood, coming at it from a different angle - has made me appreciate it far more. In this video, I discuss why Mark Knopfler's 'Golden Heart' album is working for me at the moment.

Is Roger Whittaker’s 1986 autobiography — “So Far So Good: The Autobiography of a Wandering Minstrel” worth reading?Quoted from the back of the book: "The revealing autobiography tells the story of Roger Whittaker's early life in Kenya, military service during the Mau Mau troubles, and the long struggle for recognition which culminated in Roger Whittaker's present success. Written in collaboration with Roger's wife, Natalie, the book discusses frankly the pressures on home and family that face all stars and how this couple has surmounted them — So far, so good".

If you’re someone who falls into the trap of flitting between albums without digesting too much – or are new to music collecting, the experience of listening to complete albums rather than just singles or greatest hits, or are simply curious about my experience, then stay with me as I tell all.

Recorded live at the iconic Greek Theatre in 1972, Hot August Night captures Neil Diamond at his best. Backed with his largest band to date, including a 35-strong string orchestra, this incredibly live album transforms already beloved songs into an unforgettable musical experience.From the prologue transitioning into “Crunchy Granola Suite” to the desperation of “I Am... I Said" and the rousing encore "Soolaimon / Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show", the performance feels bigger and often bolder, richer, compared to studio counterparts.Whether you already love this album or are listening for the first time, Hot August Night provides an essential listen to allcomers.00:00 Introduction01:55 The journey to Hot August Night14:03 How I discovered Hot August Night for the first time 16:42 How this album sold18:24 The main themes - why it’s so great27:23 Side-by-side, track-by-track review42:20 The 40th anniversary reissue additions 43:57 Summary/close Shilo Live 1967 on 'Popendipity': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98mxTslGjbsBBC Live In Concert 1971: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8x88avsme-0

Beautiful Noise, 50 years old in 2026 - being released in 1976 - is in my view, Neil Diamond's greatest studio album, enhanced by Robbie Robertson's production, a solid, consistent collection of songs with an attention to detail for the album 'art form' from its artwork, conceptual feel to the - literal - celebration of 'beautiful noise' with its range of instruments.

In this video, we take a deep dive into the 2023 Autumn Leaves EP from Mckenna Grace — my favourite new find of 2026 so far, a collection of songs that I can't stop playing.Released in October 2023, this 5-track EP explores themes of love, loss, and self-reflection, blending soft, gentle arrangements with personal, honest and relatable storytelling. Mckenna delivers an experience that feels raw, intimate, and relatable.In this review, we’ll cover:• Overall sound and production• Lyrics and emotional themes• My relationship with this EP• PLUS my thoughts on the new 'Twisting The Knife' single in collaboration with Ice Nine Kills

Kenny Rogers' 1982 album, Love Will Turn You Around, features the title track which went to #1 in the US and Canadian country charts and also featured in the film 'Six Pack'. I bought this album a few months ago from a charity shop, and had only played it once. After listening to it far more intently over the past week, I feel more invested in each of the tracks and enjoy listening to this album.

In today’s review, we’re diving into On A Day Like Today, the 1998 album from Bryan Adams. This album shows Adams leaning into a more polished, mature style - without completely abandoning his arena-rock roots.The album nicely blends heartfelt ballads with radio-ready rock anthems. We’ll break down the individual songs and how this record fits into Bryan Adams’ broader discography.Is this an underrated gem in his catalogue? Watch to find out!

Elvis Presley in Concert: Baz Luhrmann's EPiC is a 2025 documentary film about Elvis Presley directed by Baz Luhrmann. In today's episode, I discuss my thoughts on this follow-up to the 2022 fictionalised story of the life of Elvis, starring Austin Butler and Tom Hanks.

In this video, we take a critical look at Love at First Sting — the massively successful 1984 release that many fans consider a classic. But does it really live up to the hype?Coming off a great four-album run — Taken By Force, Lovedrive, Animal Magnetism and Blackout — the band started to stagnate on Love At First Sting. Safer, more commercial, and less inspired.We discuss:⚡ Why “Rock You Like a Hurricane” carries the album🎸 The shift toward a radio-friendly sound🎤 Whether the songwriting feels repetitive or formulaic🔥 How it stacks up against Lovedrive, Animal Magnetism, and Blackout⭐ Final verdict: classic… or just carried by one mega-hit?While there are strong moments, this record leans heavily on its biggest single, leaving the rest of the tracklist feeling inconsistent compared to the energy and atmosphere of previous albums.Is Love at First Sting overrated? Or am I being too harsh? Drop your thoughts in the comments 👇

Why do album reissues change names?You buy an album… only to realise it exists under two or three different titles and completely different artwork. Same album. Different name. Instant confusion.In this video, I show some records in my collection that are reissues, and why this trend is driving collectors like me slightly insane. If you’ve ever looked at two albums by an artist, wondering, “Wait… isn’t this the same album?” — this one’s for you.

In today’s review, we’re diving into Boss Man / The Best of (1972) by Charlie Rich — a fascinating snapshot of the early career of one of country and soul’s most underrated voices. Before the success of Behind Closed Doors, Rich was already blending country, blues, rockabilly, and soul into something uniquely his own. This compilation highlights that raw, genre-bending period .From the dated “Big Boss Man” to the vulnerability in his ballads, this collection captures an artist still evolving but already somewhat distinctive. In this video, I share:- My first impressions of the album- Standout tracks and performances- How it compares to his later, more polished hits (does it hint at what's to come with 'Behind Closed Doors')- Whether it’s essential listening

Even after several listens, I find myself putting Nebraska back on. No big production. No arena-rock energy. Just Bruce, a guitar, and some pretty heavy stories.Today I’m talking about why this album keeps pulling me back — and why it might be Springsteen’s most powerful record.

The Seekers were an Australian folk-pop group that rose to international fame in the 1960s. Led by singer Judith Durham, they blended folk and pop with clean harmonies and became one of the first Australian acts to break big overseas. Their hits include “I’ll Never Find Another You,” “A World of Our Own,” and “Georgy Girl.” They were known for their wholesome image, strong melodies, and huge global popularity before splitting up in 1968 (with later reunions).In this episode, I provide an overview of their hit singles and albums, as well as my journey with this group.

Judas Priest returned to a more intense, in-your-face sound with 1988's Ram It Down, after the synth-heavy Turbo before it. I really enjoy Turbo; however, I haven't had the same experience with Ram It Down on past listens. I decided to revisit Ram It Down in the last week, and in this video, I discuss where I think this fits into the Priest catalogue.

I look at Neil Diamond's Three Chord Opera, released in 2001, an album which has signs of positivity with songs such as 'I Haven't Played This Song In Years', but doesn't deliver an experience like his classic material.

I review Turn Back the Clock, the classic 1988 debut album from Johnny Hates Jazz. This album produced timeless hits like “Shattered Dreams,” “I Don’t Want to Be a Hero,” and the title track “Turn Back the Clock.”I tell my story of discovering this band and how the album fits into the late-80s pop landscape. Does Turn Back the Clock still hold up today, or is it purely a nostalgic listen?

Paul Young featured as the subject of the latest '...At the BBC' programme broadcast in January 2026. I watched this and had a great time; here are my thoughts on this programme and Paul's early catalogue!

In this episode, I share my thoughts on Song Sung Blue, the musical drama inspired by the music of Neil Diamond. Starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, the film tells a heartfelt story about love, ambition, and the power of music to bring people together.I break down the soundtrack and whether the film lives up to the legacy of Neil Diamond’s iconic songs.

We all have too much stuff in our lives, and that applies (certainly for me) with music. In 2026, I'm keen to appreciate the music that I already have, and particularly those albums that I've only heard once - or possibly not at all.This is the start of a series where I discuss what I am currently revisiting and what I have taken from revisiting this collection of music. This time, it's the turn of Glen Campbell's 1977 album live from the Royal Festival Hall, backed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

We examine Neil Diamond’s On the Way to the Sky (1981), an album released in a shifting musical landscape. The album finds Diamond pulling back from the grand, arena-filling style that defined much of his late ’70s success.We break down the album’s polished but sometimes overly cautious production, its reliance on familiar melodic formulas, and lyrics that lean more toward comfort than challenge. While songs like “On the Way to the Sky” and “Yesterday’s Songs” show flashes of warmth and introspection, the ballad-heavy record often struggles to maintain momentum.Is On the Way to the Sky an underrated moment of maturity—or a safe, transitional release that lacks urgency? This review takes a clear-eyed look at where the album succeeds, where it falls short, and how it fits into Neil Diamond’s broader legacy.🎧 Let’s Talk Music Everywhere 👇📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584749973517🐦 X (Twitter):https://x.com/TJTalksMusic📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tobyjonestalksmusic/🎵 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tobyjonesmusic🎙 Listen to this (and my other content) in podcast form:🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AO9631Co0XI7ihfNRYnp7🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/toby-jones-talks-music/id1861103906

I go through 16 Bruce Springsteen studio albums, ranking them based on what works, what doesn’t, and which albums I keep coming back to the most. There are obvious classics, a few underrated favourites, and definitely some choices that might spark debate.If you’re a longtime Springsteen fan or just starting to dig into his music, this is all just one fan’s take — so let me know where you agree (or completely disagree) in the comments.Like the video if you enjoyed it, subscribe for more music rankings and discussions, and let’s talk Bruce 👇🎧 Let’s Talk Music Everywhere 👇📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584749973517🐦 X (Twitter):https://x.com/TJTalksMusic📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tobyjonestalksmusic/🎵 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tobyjonesmusic🎙 Listen to this (and my other content) in podcast form:🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AO9631Co0XI7ihfNRYnp7🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/toby-jones-talks-music/id1861103906

I've been listening to some vinyl compilation albums over the last week. Two of these are from Kenny Rogers, the first from his First Edition band (Star-Collection), the latter featuring re-recorded versions of some of his best-known First Edition songs, along with newer hits (Ten Years of Gold).

Unmasked, the 1980 album from KISS, is a slight change from 1979's Dynasty, side-stepping some of the disco elements to revert back to a rock sound with elements of the new wave sound. Although fans were not keen at the time of its release, the album has seen more positive retrospective reviews. Here is my take on KISS's Unmasked.

I'm A Writer, Not a Fighter, released in 1973, was the 3rd album by Irish songwriter Gilbert O'Sullivan. Following the success of 1972's Back To Front, with its UK Number 1 single 'Clair', this also featured a Number 1 with 'Get Down', along with 9 other tracks. This, in my opinion, is Gilbert O'Sullivan's best album - from a criminally underrated songwriter!In this episode, I discuss my love for this album and O'Sullivan's other work.

Neil Diamond's Melody Road, released in 2014, was the first Neil Diamond album that I discovered, and played quite a part in my music listening journey. In this episode, I tell the story of discovering this album and my thoughts on the individual tracks, particularly some of my favourites; First Time, Nothing But A Heartache, In Better Days and The Art Of Love.