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 […]
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals Live at Ives Park (06.27.11)
It’s been 5 years since I first saw Grace Potter & the Nocturnals in concert. The 5 years has seen a lot of changes to the band, a couple of line-up changes, a couple of records, a slew of major festival appearances, and practical stardom thanks to appearances on VH1 and the Ellen DeGeneres show. […]
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
Tom’s Picks: Best of Spring 2011
Top 10 JASON ISBELL & THE 400 UNIT, Here We Rest [★★★★/4.455] His third album since parting ways with the Drive-by Truckers and second with band The 400 Unit. The album title, Here We Rest, takes it’s name from the original Alabama state motto. Like his former band, Isbell continually pays homage to his home […]
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 […]
Abbie Gardner- Hope
5 Years, 3 Red Molly records, a duo record with Anthony da Costa, and a passel of tour dates have passed since Abbie Gardner’s last solo record, the comparatively sparse Honey On My Grave. Hope represents the maturation of one of the best artists in Americana music today. With a confidence that can only be […]
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, […]
Dan Hubbard and the Humadors – The Love Show
It wasn’t that long ago when someone asked me “Why doesn’t anyone make Rock n’ Roll” anymore?” Like many folks, he quit looking for new music after he graduated college, and was now trying to search the radio for new Rock n’ Roll. If he asked that today, I would give him a copy of […]
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 […]