2010 is shaping up quite nicely, thank you. Here are ten upcoming releases whose arrival is eagerly anticipated at the Twangville general store.
FREEDY JOHNSTON, Rain on the City
(Release date January 12th)
Has it really been eight years since Johnston’s last album of originals? Johnston’s instrument of choice is an acoustic guitar, all the better to showcase his character-driven stories. (Bar None Records)
SPOON, Transference
(Release date January 19th)
Tense and edgy, yet always melodic – Spoon are the perfect band to get the 2010 dance party started. The indie wunderkins from Austin will undoubtedly build on the success of 2007’s Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga. (Merge Records)
PATTY GRIFFIN, Downtown Church
(Release date January 26th)
Patty Griffin wrapping her voice around a collection of gospel classics mixed with a few originals. Sounds pretty good, huh? Patty Griffin recording a gospel album in a Nashville Presbyterian church with producer Buddy Miller featuring guests ranging from Emmylou Harris to Raul Malo. Now that sounds extraordinary. (Credential Records)
JOE PUG, Messenger
(Release date February 16th)
It’s hard to believe that this will be Pug’s debut release (save for two solo acoustic EPs). For those who have caught at least one of Pug’s countless shows in 2008-2009, here is your chance to hear studio versions of some already classic Pug songs. (Lightning Rod Records)
JOHNNY CASH, American VI: Ain’t No Grave
(Release date February 23rd)
Another posthumous release from the rich archives of Cash’s sessions with American Recordings’ Rick Rubin. Ain’t No Grave will undoubtedly continue to build on Cash’s tremendous legacy. (American Records)
BUTCH WALKER, I Liked It Better When You Had No Heart
(Release date February 23rd)
Walker is on a roll the past few years, churning out some great albums that run the gamut from in-your-face glam rock to more reflective acoustic pop. His latest tends towards the latter with a touch of Southern California country thrown into the mix. (One Haven Records)
WILL KIMBROUGH, Wings
(Release date February 23rd)
Best known as a session guitarist and producer, Nashville’s Will Kimbrough is a gifted songwriter in his own right. His songs tend to be roots-based but have a pop sensibility that should make Simon Cowell jealous. (Daphne Records)
TED LEO, The Brutalist Bricks
(Release date March 9th)
Leo is the definition of independent musician, a free spirit who remains true to the punk ethic. He matches his musical intensity with lyrical depth and intelligence. (Matador Records)
DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS, The Big To-Do
(Release date March 16th)
The Truckers are bringing the rock show. ‘nuf said.
(ATO Records)
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PETER WOLF, Midnight Souvenirs
(Release date April 6th)
The J. Geils front-man returns with his seventh solo album, a cross-genre release reflect of Wolf’s studied pursuit of blues, country and rock. With guests including Shelby Lynne, Neko Case and the legendary Merle Haggard, we’re expecting the album’s country side to be well represented. (Verve/UMe Records)
See some of Eli’s anticipated 2010 releases here. And be sure to check the Twangville Release Calendar for additional upcoming 2010 releases.
Drive-By Truckers photo by Jason Thrasher.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.