Arms & Legs and Flowers, Ian Hunter (from the New West Records release Man Overboard) It’s no accident that Ian Hunter gets two mentions on this list. The legendary singer-songwriter is a true rock and roll poet, writing magnificent songs that combine simplicity with depth. “Arms & Legs” is an inspirational tribute to love built […]
Mayer’s Best of 2009 (the songs), Part 1
Give Me Tomorrow, Willie Nile (from the River House Records release House of a Thousand Guitars) Nile’s eternal optimism reigns supreme, most notably on this spirited testament to change and opportunity. “I’ve seen poison in the waters, heard the crying of the sea, I have heard your sons and daughters say what’s to become of […]
Readers’ Pick: Top 10 Favorite Albums of 2009
Your picks are in! There were some surprises and several picks that you’ll see repeated among the Twangville Editors’ Picks of 2009. The votes started diminishing after the Top 10 so we’ve capped it at that. Well, technically 11 due to a tie at number 10. The initial list of candidates was chosen from our […]
Eli’s Favorites of 2009 (and some 2010 stuff too)
As the new year approaches, I’m getting more and more excited about what 2010 holds. So, I’m going to do a quick run down of some of the records I’m looking forward to in 2010…..and then my favorites of 2009. Joe Pug- Messenger This is probably my most anticipated release for 2010. Pug’s 2008 EP […]
Happy Holidays from the Twangville Posse
Our gift to you is a pair of holiday selections from two of our favorite artists. It’s better than a pair of socks and, really, did you expect anything else? (Yea, it’s only half the song but it clearly illustrates why we’re big Willie Nile fans…)
Shawn’s Top 20 For 2009
As you’ve no doubt figured out, in addition to the collective top 20 albums of ’09, each of us is sharing our own spin. Â So here’s my perspective on the best of the year. 1. Dave Alvin & the Guilty Women – eponymous: Perhaps my opinion is colored by having seen a couple of stellar […]
Kelly’s Top 25 for 2009
In year’s past, I haven’t done much a personal “Best-Of” list at year’s end. I have left that up to others, mainly due to the stress level inherent with such a task. This year, I contributed a list to multiple outlets, so I figure I would share my ballot with you here. What you see […]
Mayer’s Best of 2009
#1. LUCERO, 1372 Overton Park (Republic/Universal) The former residents of 1372 Overton Park in Memphis let loose a potent blend of classic rock anthems and horn-infused Southern soul. Fueled by singer-songwriter Ben Nichol’s gritty vocals and filled with lyrics about whiskey-filled nights and the mornings after, this one is a barnburner. (Twangville review here and […]
Todd’s Tops of 2009
With the end of another calendar year, comes the “Best Of Lists†galore from everyone from Oprah to Obama encompassing books, food, music, and who knows what else. So, since I have a space here on Twangville, I figured I’d throw my 2 cents worth in on the music side. I’m going second because I […]
Jeff’s Best of 2009
Robert Francis – Before Nightfall Ben Kweller – Changing Horses Justin Townes Earle – Midnight at the Movies Peter Bradley Adams – Traces Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit – self-titled Drive-by Truckers – The Fine Print Dave Rawlings Machine – A Friend of a Friend Patterson Hood – Murdering Oscar The Avett Brothers – […]