James McMurty may not be the most prolific songwriter – he’s released two albums in the past 11 years – but he sure is consistent. His catalog is rock solid, a songwriter’s songwriter who tells brilliant character-driven stories that accompany well-crafted melodies. And don’t forget that he is one heck of a guitar player – heavy on the substance, light on the flash.
Here are two gems from the McMurtry canon. “Too Long in the Wasteland” hails from his debut album while “Canola Fields”, up for “song of the year” at this year’s Americana Music Awards, is from his latest, the outstanding The Horses and the Hounds.
McMurtry is making up for lost time due to Covid with an extended tour through the Northeast and Midwest (tour dates). Catch him when he comes to your town and enjoy plenty of music, stories, and good times.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.