One of the hallmarks of a good storyteller is the ability to take a big idea or topic and present it from the perspective of the individual participants. Â Instead of a political statement, you have a human interest piece and sometimes that’s the only way to start a civil conversation. Â American’s participation in military operations–war–has […]
Monday Morning Video: Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives
If ever there was an aptly named band, this is it. Although the name is an apt description of Marty Stuart himself, a country music mainstay for nearly 50 years. Way Out West, his latest album with the illustrious Superlatives finds him continuing to be a leading light among artists carrying on the tradition of […]
Readers’ Pick: Undivided Heart & Soul by JD McPherson
You picked Undivided Heart & Soul by soulful singer-songwriter, JD McPherson, as your favorite new release for the week of October 6, 2017. Poll Results New Releases BECK, Colors Did we miss something? If you feel a new release is missing from our current poll, please let us know in the comments. Readers’ Tops Summer 2017 RAY […]
David Ramirez – We’re Not Going Anywhere
If you haven’t heard of David Ramirez yet, this album might be the call. If you have, this one is a step forward. Unlike the brilliant understated “Fables,” “We’re Not Going Anywhere” is fleshed out and the arrangements only accentuate the emotions. In particular, Sam Kassirer, Josh’s Ritter’s piano player, produces and plays piano. He […]
Josh Ritter – Gathering
While it seems like things have gotten a bit quieter on the Josh Ritter front for the last few years, they’re every bit as relevant and moving. With his new album “Gathering,” Ritter finds himself slowing down the tempo in many cases but uses words and melodies to bring together the emotional punch. Tunes like […]
Monday Morning Video: More Petty
The outpouring of tributes to the late Tom Petty has been truly astounding, although certainly not surprising given the depth and brilliance of Petty’s catalog. Artists of every generation, not to mention every genre, have paid tribute with performances of Petty classics. Among the best of them have been the inspired sing-alongs from the crowds […]
Readers’ Pick: Angels Hear by Action Skulls
You picked Angels Hear by, Action Skulls, as your favorite new release for the week of September 29, 2017. Poll Results New Releases Did we miss something? If you feel a new release is missing from our current poll, please let us know in the comments. Readers’ Tops Summer 2017 RAY WYLIE HUBBARD, Tell The Devil I’m […]
Sweetwater String Band – At Night
From the first notes of the bow bouncing on the strings of the cello, you can tell this is going to be a different take on what you probably thought of as a string band. Â The instruments Sweetwater String Band uses are 3/4 of a traditional quartet; guitar, mandolin, bass. Â But instead of the fiddle, […]
Tom Petty (1950-2017)
Monday Morning Video: The Wild Reeds
The Wild Reeds delivered one of my favorite sets from this year’s Americana Music Conference, guitar-fueled and intense. Here they are performing “Capable” from The World We Built, their most recent album. How about the dueling guitars, accompanied by harmonium, that close out the performance? As a special bonus, you’ll also find their stellar cover […]