The Boston Americana scene took a hit when singer-songwriter Jabe Beyer relocated to Nashville. Whether leading his own band, performing with roots-bluegrass outfit The Benders, or bending his guitar strings for artists ranging from Todd Thibaud to Bow Thayer, Beyer had firmly established himself as a rising talent. While Beyer hasn’t released any new music […]
Win Big: Paul Kelly
What is it about Australia and New Zealand? Per capita, they’ve got some of the most talented and enjoyable musicians in the world. Neil Finn and Tim Finn (from Splitz Enz to Crowded House and the solo stuff in between) to Kasey Chambers to You Am I. And then there’s Paul Kelly. Kelly himself best […]
Monday Morning Video: The Peacemakers
Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers have a well-earned reputation are one of the most fun live bands touring today. In a moment of indecision, I couldn’t decide which of these videos to post. So, what the heck, I’ll post ’em both. The first is “Fonder and Blonder,” a tune from Clyne and drummer P.H. Naffah’s […]
Do It Again: Reuniting the Kinks
Public television in Boston showed an edited version of Do It Again, a movie about the Kinks, last night. The story revolves around Geoff Edgers, a Boston Globe reporter who sets out on a quest to reunite the legendary British band. Along the way, Edgers interviews artists ranging from Sting to Peter Buck to Robyn […]
Win Big: Lydia Loveless & Eilen Jewell
This year has seen a number of impressive releases from women artists. At the top of the list stand Eilen Jewell and Lydia Loveless. Each, in their own way, recalls the musical spirit and individuality of Loretta Lynn. Jewell is the more traditional of the two, breathing fresh air into a classic country sound, while […]
Monday Morning Video: The Latebirds
I caught these guys a few weeks ago and was mightily impressed. This talented group of musicians from Finland know how to bring it live. Wilco fans, in particular, should take note. The band mines similar musical ground and features Wilco guitarist Nels Cline as a guest on their latest release. For more info on […]
Listen Up: Lydia Loveless
The Lydia Loveless experience begins before one even listens to a note – the cover art is an illustration of a red-headed girl chugging from what appears to be a gas can. If that isn’t an indication of what is to come, I’m not sure what is. Loveless is a spit-fire 21-year-old from Columbus, Ohio […]
Mayer’s Playlist for August 2011, Part 2
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: The Duke & The King, by The Duke & The King I’ll admit to not knowing much about the Duke and the King. I was aware that Simon Felice had moved on from the Felice Brothers and had formed this new outfit, but little more. Let’s just say that I’ve corrected […]
Monday Morning Video: Neil Young, Hurricane Edition
Those of us on the East Coast of the US spent the weekend preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Irene. She has now come and gone, but not without leaving her mark. Here’s to you, Irene.
Mayer’s Playlist for August 2011, Part 1
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: I Recall Standing As Though Nothing Could Fall, by Matthew Ryan If I needed proof as to why Matthew Ryan is among my favorite songwriters, I needn’t look any further than his explanation of his latest release: It wasn’t my intention to make a gloomy album. I know it will be […]