June was a great month for new music with great new offerings from Roman Candle, the Bottle Rockets, the Yayhoos, and a remarkable collaboration between Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint. July is shaping up to be just as good with a host of solid releases.
Americanitis, Will Kimbrough (7/25)
Known primarily as a side-man and producer for the likes of Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider, Adrienne Young and others, Kimbrough has quietly established himself as an exceptional singer-songwriter. He’s the American Neil Finn: a clever wordsmith with a sharp wit (“my head’s in the oven but I’m just scrubbin'”). His latest takes a political turn but is filled with the melodies and guitar prowess that are a Kimbrough hallmark.
On his blog, Kimbrough writes about the song “Pride,†a centerpiece on the new album : “Could not help but notice the duality of bumper stickers, post 9/11. A lot of gung ho, a lot of religion. Drive By Truckers would call it “The duality of the Southern Thingâ€. I call it Americanitis. We want Jesus AND guns.â€
The Rise and Fall…, Butch Walker and the Let’s Go Out Tonites (7/11)
Butch is back with one of two albums promised for 2006. Although not quite as consistent as his earlier Letters (a Twangville top disc from 2004), it is notable for its emphasis on rock with a touch of glam. The guitars lead the way on this energetic collection of dirty pop – a perfect summer album.
So Far, So Good: The Best of the Paul Thorn Band Live, Paul Thorn (7/11)
What better introduction to Paul Thorn than this combination live dvd and cd? Backed by a crack band, Thorn travels the road similar to John Hiatt and John Prine, spinning tales of the South in a satisfying mix of folk, rock and country. Thorn is the consummate entertainer – his between song banter is both humorous and engaging. Both cd and dvd include versions of “Hammer & Nailâ€, highlighted in last month’s playlist.
Live At Montreux 2005, Steve Earle (7/11)
A surprise release from a Twangville favorite finds Earle performing solo in Europe last year. Featuring a diverse selection of songs from throughout his impressive catalogue, I’m most intrigued to hear the acoustic takes on his highly political and angry 2004 release, The Revolution Starts Now.
Enough Rope, Chris Knight (7/11)
Often compared to Steve Earle and John Mellencamp, Knight writes stories of the deep South like few other artists. His songs are filled with distinct characters who struggle to make sense of their lives and the challenges that they face. Knight’s voice possesses enough twang to give the tales an authentic air.
Personality, The Sleepy Jackson (7.25)
Luke Steele is one of the more eccentric characters in rock. One minute he’s crooning an acoustic ballad, the next minute it’s a furious rocker reminiscent of Midnight Oil. Behind it all, however, are some great hooks and a true talent.
Up With the Sun, Alex Woodard (8/1)
A SXSW discovery from a few years back, Woodard has transitioned from electric-driven power pop to acoustic pop over his past few albums. His melodies are pristine and his lyrics delicate; this is a great cd to spin on a lazy summer Sunday afternoon.
For more new releases, visit the Twangville release calendar.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.