While many buzzed-about-blog-bands are typically the laptop-toting, electronic, shoe-gazers, or the hipper-than-thou indie act that may or may not have hints of The Band in their sound, the occasional rootsy, folk driven band eeks through and creates a stir. The Avett Brothers (who were at Ramseur Records before going with Rick Rubin for their upcoming […]
Mayer’s Playlist for March/April 2009, Part 2
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: Broken, by Todd Thibaud Thibaud is a roots rock everyman, routinely cranking out hearty workingman’s music. His latest continues his streak of satisfying releases. Thibaud is at his best when he takes on the emotional conflicts of people grappling with their everyday lives. His lyrics capture their internal conflict yet keep […]
Mayer’s Playlist for March/April 2009, Part 1
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: Debris, by Michelle Malone Pity me, I almost missed this release. Fortunately fate intervened and I’ve now got my lead candidate in the summer album derby. Malone’s blend of Southern rock and blues, with the occasional folk and acoustic rock interlude, are the perfect accompaniment for sunny summer days. And lest […]
Sara Watkins
When you heard about Nickel Creek prior to their break up most of the focus was on mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile. Although Sean Watkins’ guitar work also collected a following. In fact, Watkins and Thile have had similar solo success. Since they parted ways, Thile has garnered praise with the Punch Brothers and Sean Watkins […]
Old Settler’s Music Festival Highlights
While my colleagues have regaled you with tales and reviews of the annual over-indulgence in Austin known as South by Southwest, I’ve found myself over the past few years gravitating to the far, far less heralded (and far, far less crowded) Old Settler’s Music Festival a couple of weeks later in the month. Beating out […]
Ronnie Fauss – New Songs for the Old Frontier: Vol. 1
SXSW 2009: The Video Companion
For more Twangville SXSW coverage click here.
Springsteen Gets Socially Distorted
Bruce Springsteen unleashed his inner punk with special guest and Twangville fave Mike Ness of Social Distortion last week in L.A. This is the sound of four guitars a blazin’. Click here for a bigger fix of Social D. Thanks to Between Love and Like for the tip-off.
SXSW 2009: The Sounds (part 3)
The Damnwells The Damnwells burst right out of the gate with the rocking “55 Pictures†from their exceptional new release. The set was electric as the band veered from brawny rockers to moody ballads. Almost as entertaining was the young girl – I’m guessing 4 years-old – who jumped on stage to join the band. […]
Record Store Day This Saturday!
Get ready for Record Store Day this Saturday, April 18th. Started in 2007 to promote independent record stores, it has grown into a celebration of independent music and the hearty souls that support it. Across the country and around the world Independent Record Stores will be hosting special in-store performances. You’ll likely find me at […]