I thought that I’d do something different this year and, with one exception, focus this list on songs that aren’t from my list of favorite 2017 albums (so far). Each of those releases, of course, could contribute songs to this list but let’s highlight some other faves of the year. Hope the High Road, Jason […]
Monday Morning Video – A Lesson for the Week
This video, from a 2013 performance in Germany, is making the rounds again. For the young bands out there, this is how it’s done. For everyone else, ain’t this the joy of music? And a bit more from the Bruce Springsteen glory of rock and roll file. ’cause once you get started, it’s hard to […]
Mayer’s Picks – the Best of 2017 (So Far), the Albums
It’s been a good year for music so far this year (and the rest of the year is looking quite nice, too). Here, in no particular order, are some of my favorite releases from the first half of 2017. BIG BAD LUV by JOHN MORELAND It’s not too late to get on the Moreland train […]
Back in the Saddle Again – a Special Twangville Playlist, Part 4
Sallisaw Blue, John Moreland (from the 4AD release Big Bad Luv) It speaks volumes when some of Americana’s leading lights are, pardon the pun, singing an artist’s praises. Such is the case with Oklahoma boy Moreland. Perhaps they are captivated with his profound storytelling, simple tales that overflow with emotion and meaning. Or maybe it’s […]
Monday Morning Video – K Phillips
There’s something about sitting outside listening to music on a hot summer night. All the better when the performer is someone like K Phillips. Dirty Wonder, his latest release, veers from straight-on rock to Texas red dirt country to hook-heavy pop, all with the soulful swagger that has become the singer-songwriter’s hallmark. Here’s a tasty […]
Back in the Saddle Again – a Special Twangville Playlist, Part 3
Battle Born, Matthew Ryan (from the self-released Hustle Up Starling) I tend to judge the quality of a year in part based on the caliber of new music unleashed within them. In that light, any year that we get a new album from Matthew Ryan is well on its way to being a good one. […]
Monday Morning Video – The Texas Gentlemen
Ready to get your jam on? Although they’ve only formally been a band a few years, The Texas Gentlemen have already proven themselves to be musicians of the highest order. Just ask folks like Leon Bridges, Nikki Lane, Paul Cauthen and Kris Kristofferson. They are just a few of the artists who have enlisted the […]
Monday Morning Video – The Vandoliers
I’ve been slowly exploring the Dallas music scene but I can say that the Vandoliers, my first local discovery, remain a favorite. Here’s a pair of videos to wet your whistle. The first selection showcases their punk rock roots while the second unleashes their penchant for Texas Red Dirt party music. What doesn’t quite come […]
Monday Morning Video – Sean Rowe
I’ve heard some of Sean Rowe’s songs over the years but never had the opportunity to see him live, something which I corrected last week. Now I’m not sure whether to regret what I’ve previously missed or look forward to the next time I can see him perform. I’m going with the latter. Anyone who […]
Monday Morning Video – Rod Melancon
Los Angeles-based singer/guitarist Rod Melancon likes to write songs about his formative years growing up in Louisiana. These are richly colorful tales, or more to the point vivid characters, often based on real people and occurrences. If his debut album from focused on the youthful innocence (and exuberance), his sophomore release takes on much darker […]