Here, in no particular order, are some of my favorites from 2011. Here’s to more great music in the back half! HERE WE REST, JASON ISBELL & THE 400 UNIT Isbell continues to mature as a songwriter, exploring the more soulful and acoustic side of his Alabama music heritage. Which isn’t to say that he […]
Monday Morning Video: Greg Behrendt on music reviews
The Twangville posse has been catching up on The Onion’s Summer Music Issue. It reminded me of this equally entertaining bit from comedian Greg Behrendt. Greg Behrendt – Indie Rock Fans
Mayer’s Playlist From June 2011, Part 2
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: Queen of the Minor Key, by Eilen Jewell It is perhaps fitting that Dave Alvin and Eilen Jewell have just released new albums. Both are flagbearers of American roots music, adept at a wide array of styles but imbuing everything that they do with integrity and authenticity. Jewell is often compares […]
Monday Morning Video: Dave Alvin on the Fourth of July
Is there any doubt what song would be this week’s Monday Morning Video? Here’s a truly special performance that finds Dave joining brother Phil last year in Chicago.
Mayer’s Playlist for June 2011, Part 1
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: Eleven Eleven, by Dave Alvin It’s hard to believe that this Alvin’s first full album of new songs since 2004’s Ashgrove. Not that he hasn’t been active; Alvin has put out a series of live albums that showcase gems from his songbook with a variety of musicians and arrangements. I, however, […]
Monday Morning Video: New Matthew Ryan
The title about says it all. Later this summer Matthew Ryan will officially release I Recall Standing As Though Nothing Could Fall. And as the definition of “release” continues to get blurry, you can purchase a digital download of the full release now. Buy it here. And as a special bonus, here’s a stripped down […]
Monday Morning Video: Clarence Clemons
Rock and Roll is a little quieter and less soulful today. Rest in peace, Clarence.
Really Rockin’ in Boston: A Special Playlist
Here’s the latest installment of my playlist series highlighting the latest and greatest in New England music. Zero, Sea Monsters (from the Q-Dee Records single Zero b/w Don’t Make Me Wait) It’s about time that we let you in on a little Boston secret. They’re called the Sea Monsters and for over three years they’ve […]
Monday Morning Video: Charlie Chesterman and Scruffy the Cat
I went to a special benefit for Boston musician Charlie Chesterman yesterday. Chesterman is battling cancer and, true to form, was humble and appreciative of the crowd that turned out for the event. Over the course of the afternoon nine different artists and bands, most playing at least one Chesterman song, took the stage for […]
Mayer’s Playlist from May 2011
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: I’ll Never Get Out of This World Alive, by Steve Earle Steve Earle could perhaps be America’s most honest songwriter. When one listens to his albums there is never a doubt what he is thinking. Whether railing against George W. Bush (“Little Emperor”) or pledging his love (“Every Part of Me”) […]