Wishes do come true. Four years ago I wrote about the debut solo album from Steep Canyon Rangers’ banjoist and frequent lead singer, Graham Sharp. I finished the post expressing a hope that, as much as I like the Rangers, the record wouldn’t be his last solo effort. Well, just out is another release from […]
Southern Avenue – Family
If you’re looking for a prescription to help get by in these darkish times, perhaps some unbridled optimism to offset the rancor that is so prevalent today, then Southern Avenue’s new Family might be just what the doctor ordered. When blues guitarist Ori Naftaly left his native Israel to compete in the International Blues Challenge […]
Jon Cleary on Fixing a Broken Tine and Keeping A Diary
New Orleans singer-pianist Jon Cleary talks about his favorite employment agreement, playing freeform jazz at his first gig, and the inspiration for his first song (just don’t ask him what the song means).
Monday Morning Video – Alejandro Escovedo and the Rant Band
Alejandro Escovedo pays tribute to Ian Hunter by inviting Hunter’s band to perform a trio of legendary Mott the Hoople songs: “All the Way From Memphis”, “Drivin’ Sister”, and “I Wish I Was Your Mother”. This is some serious classic rock and roll.
Readers’ Pick: Turnpike Troubadours – Price of Admission
You picked Turnpike Troubadours – Price of Admission as your favorite new release for the week of April 11, 2025.
Sierra Hull on Tour Bus Breakdowns and Always Finding New Hills to Climb
Mandolin virtuoso Sierra Hull recalls the bribe that got her to take the stage for the first time and talks about taking time to stop and smell the roses.
Monday Morning Video – John Prine
Last week marked five years since John Prine left us, leaving behind a songwriting legacy that continues to inspire. Here are two Prine classics, “Lake Marie” and, accompanied by Bonnie Raitt, “Angel From Montgomery”.
Readers’ Pick: Kier Byrnes & The Kettle Burners – Before The Fall
You picked Kier Byrnes & The Kettle Burners – Before The Fall as your favorite new release for the week of April 4, 2025.
Grey DeLisle – The Grey Album
Back in the 60’s Nashville country music was feeling the pressure from honky-tonk hits coming out of Bakersfield, and from the blues-rock edge the Brits were putting on pop. So the A-list producers decided to replace the fiddle and steel guitar with orchestra strings and the nasally vocals with polished choruses. The resultant sound became […]
Studio Spotlight/Cowboy Technical Services Recording Rig, Eric Ambel
This month we’re talking with Eric Ambel who was kind enough to do our interview. I originally knew about Eric from his guitar slinging with Steve Earle but then learned of his prowess with The Del-Lords, The Yahoos and Joan Jett. These days he may be found on stage with Boston’s Sarah Borges or in […]