I’m a sucker for a good story. Sure, there are plenty of great songs that aren’t much beyond a chant and a chord progression. But the ones that germinate in your mind to become a part of your worldview; they’re relatable in a way that goes all the way back Aesop. Someone who’s a master […]
Cat Clyde on Working at a Horse Farm and Learning As You Go
Cat Clyde talks about breaking down in rural Quebec, seeking out protein and carbs while touring, and her various rehearsal spaces.
Monday Morning Video – Erik Vincent Huey
Last week Erik Vincent Huey took over Lucinda’s in NYC’s East Village to celebrate the release of Fort Defiance, his latest album — and by “took over,” we mean he owned every inch of it. Backed by Baltimore rock band Starbelly and album producer Eric Ambel, the night turned into a glorious, screaming rock show. […]
Now & Then: Clay Street Unit’s Sin & Squalor and the reach of The Devil Makes Three
There’s a certain kind of roots record that doesn’t want to be reviewed so much as spilled. You know the type: beer-ring on the lyric sheet, boot-scuff on the melody, a chorus built to survive a room full of people talking over it until they suddenly aren’t.
Readers’ Pick: Clay Street Unit – Sin & Squalor
You picked Clay Street Unit – Sin & Squalor as your favorite new release for the week of February 13, 2026.
CJ Hooper – Over Yonder
CJ Hooper. That just sounds like the name of a country musician. Or maybe a high school football star being recruited by every school in the SEC. I don’t know if Hooper played football in high school, but he was Texas-raised before moving to his now-home in Washington state. More to the point, he just […]
The Band of Heathens – Country Sides
Country Sides the new release by The Band of Heathens marks their 20th anniversary as a band. The band was basically formed from a local collaboration that grew organically the old school viral way, by word of mouth. (There was no TikTok viral push available back then.) Over the last 20 years, The Band of […]
“American Healthcare Blues” – a Premiere from Chris J. Norwood & The Knockout Dragout
Everyone faces challenges in their lives, but few are as fundamental as healthcare—for ourselves, our families, and the people we care about. And healthcare in America has become a double hit: first, the health crisis itself; second, navigating a system that can throw haymakers when you’re already down. Chris J. Norwood & the Knockout Dragout […]
Craig Fort of Lightning Stills on Utilization Cooking and the Aftermath of Band Rehearsals
Craig Fort of Omaha, Nebraska’s Lightning Stills talks about his start in a hardcore punk band, being in the “investment” phase of his musical career, and the type of seats he has in his tour vehicle.
Monday Morning Video – Matt Charette
Early last week, Boston singer-songwriter Matt Charette showed up at his barbershop to find it underwater. Literally. An upstairs neighbor didn’t take proper cold weather precautions, a pipe burst, and water came pouring down into the shop. The damage was devastating. But Charette’s doing what DIY musicians do—skip the pity party, roll up the sleeves, […]