This has already been quite a year for songs. Here are just a few of my favorites from the first half of 2016.
Unbroken Hearts and Call the Doctor, Austin Lucas (from the Last Chance Records release Between the Moon and the Midwest)
Lucas tells his tale of life in the music business, set to a classic 1970’s country sound. An anthem for anyone pursing a dream in spite of the obstacles that arise along the way.
Just Another River Town, Grant-Lee Phillips (from the Yep Roc Records release The Narrows)
Phillips vividly captures the ebb and flow of small town life, the richness of his voice set and a wailing slide guitar adding wonderful texture to the story.
I Didn’t Know, Bob Woodruff (from the Steel Derrick Music release The Year We Tried To Kill The Pain)
Woodruff somehow makes heartbreak sound cheerful on this fine piece of Americana.
Needed, Robbie Fulks (from the Bloodshot Records release Upland Stories)
I’ve got to admit that this one slipped by me on my first listen to Fulks’ latest release. The talented singer-songwriter serves up a quiet and moving reflection on his own life before offering some touching wisdom to his children. Better late than never, right?
Settlin’ or Sleepin’ Around, Trapper Schoepp (from the Xtra Mile Recordings release Rangers & Valentines)
This song is either an ode to free love or a chronicle of twenty-something indecision. Either way, it’s among the catchiest songs that you’ll hear this year. Plus cowbell.
All or Nothing, Waco Brothers (from the Bloodshot Records release Going Down in History)
One of today’s best bar bands take a break from singing their own fine songs to cover one of rock history’s greatest bar bands. What’s not to like?
The Only Thing, Brian Whelan (from the Line in the Sound release Sugarland)
The L.A.-based songwriter and guitarist will suck you in with the killer hook that propels this driving rock song.
Livin’ in a Bitch of a World, 7Horse (from the self-released Livin In a Bitch Of a World)
An anthem for turbulent times. “I’m alive and well and livin’ in a bitch of a world.”
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.