Songwriters, pickers, rockers, and everything in between. That’s what Newport Folk gets you. Many favorites are back. Jason Isbell, armed with tunes from his new record, “Weathervanes,” will be back again. In addition, Gregory Alan Isakov will be returning for his particular brand of folk and ambient songwriting. Billy Strings will be back too. He’ll […]
Devon Gilfillian on Diversity, Eating Clean, and Charlie Treat’s Basement
Nashville-based soul singer Devon Gilfillian talks about getting hit by a drunk driver, how his first band got its name, and the importance of putting together the right team.
Jesse Daniel Edwards on Granola Bars and His Old 1974 VW Pop Top Van
Nashville-based Jesse Daniel Edwards talks about his song “Meatloaf, Corn & Potatoes”, his approach to eating while on tour, and making peace with his guitar.
Taken For a Ride – a Premiere from Nathan Mongol Wells
Our introduction to Dallas musician Nathan Mongol Wells came via his rock band Ottoman Turks. Their 2019 debut delivered some fun cowpunk and their 2021 follow-up rocked with a harder edge. His forthcoming solo debut, however, showcases his gentler side. Among the better examples is the ballad “Taken for a Ride”. A pedal steel gives […]
Monday Morning Video – Carson McHone and Julianna Riolino
Last week I shared a video from Daniel Romano’s Outfit. This week let’s enjoy a pair of solo gems from Outfit members Carson McHone and Julianna Riolino. First up is McHone’s “Hawks Don’t Share” from her 2022 release Still Life. Then it’s Riolino, backed by the Outfit, covering Fairpoint Convention’s “Come All Ye” segueing into […]
Readers’ Pick: Dale Watson – Starvation Box
You picked Dale Watson – Starvation Box as your favorite new release for the week of July 7, 2023.
Marina Rocks – Texcentric
Marina Rocks calls Texas home. She embraces its whole self, warts and all, and takes you on a musical journey through it on her latest record, Texcentric. Starting as a child in the state capital, her mother encouraged her musical exploration at an early age, with not just the gift of a guitar but also […]
Mayer’s Playlist for Summer 2023
Tumbleweed, Jeremie Albino (from the Good People Record Co. release Tears You Hide) While Jeremie Albino may tease with 30 seconds of old-time pickin’ on album opener “Dance With Me”, he very quickly brings out the good time – and rowdy – fun that defines Tears You Hide. “Angeline”, the first full track, finds the […]
Jeff Black on Field Parties and Getting Paid to Drive
Singer-songwriter Jeff Black talks about working in a contract business, never missing a gig due to a tour vehicle breakdown, and another cup of coffee.
Samantha Fish on Pizza, Hannah Montana, and New Orleans
Blues artist Samantha Fish talks about how Miley Cyrus helped her get her first gig, her first live record, and curating a style in the age of social media.





