We’ll wrap up this go-around with a few more promising releases scheduled for early 2011. This is shaping up to be a mighty fine year for music. EDDIE SPAGHETTI, Sundowner (Release date 15 February 2011) This is a record that overflows with personality. Not that anyone should be surprised given the reputation Spaghetti has established […]
Coming Soon: 2011 Release Preview, Part 2
Without fail, there are always two random days each year that overflow with impressive new releases. Mark February 15th on your calendar for a bounty of musical delight. And if you are still catching up on 2010, you’ll find our Best Of 2010 lists here. KASEY ANDERSON, Heart of a Dog (Release date 15 February […]
Mayer’s Picks: Best Songs of 2010, Pt. 2
As Long As You Don’t Come Back, Justin Currie (from the Rykodisc Records release The Great War) Set aside a lyric that we all wish we had, or perhaps actually did, say at one point or another. What I most appreciate about this song is the unassuming, even playful, melody that accompanies the lyrical punch. […]
Mayer’s Picks: Best Songs of 2010, Pt. 1
Not So Sure and How Good You Are, Joe Pug (from the Lightning Rod Records release Messenger) Quite simply, I couldn’t decide which of these songs I liked better so called it a draw. Both are shining examples of Pug’s songwriting prowess: thoughtful lyrics, engaging melodies and a captivating performance. Down in the Bowery, Alejandro […]
Mayer’s Picks: Best Albums of 2010
#1. JOE PUG, Messenger (Lightning Rod) Pug may only be in his mid 20’s, but his songs reflect a timeless musical wisdom. A folk troubadour in the truest sense, he is equally skilled tackling social and political topics as he is at exploring the politics of romance. A powerful new musical voice has emerged. (Twangville […]
Love That Dirty Water: A Boston Playlist
Welcome to the second in a periodic series of playlists showcasing artists from my hometown of Boston. You Were Drunk, Rose Polenzani with Session Americana (from the self-released When the River Meets the Sea) Polenzani does a periodic showcase at the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge. It is quite the affair as she invites friends and […]
Mayer’s Playlist for October/November 2010, Part 2
ALBUM OF THE MONTH: Victims, Enemies, & Old Friends, by Doc Dailey and Magnolia Devil A strong Southern accent imbues Muscle Shouls musician Doc Dailey’s voice and music. His songs continue a rich Southern storytelling tradition, filled with characters struggling with the hands that they’ve been dealt. In album opener “Prove Me Wrong” Dailey strives […]
Mayer's Playlist for October/November 2010, Part 1
ALBUM OF THE MONTH: The Bottom of the Sky, by Bow Thayer and Perfect Trainwreck After listening to this release, it shouldn’t be a surprise to learn that Thayer has played with Levon Helm (although it was really the reverse – Helm played drums on Thayer’s 2006 release). They are kindred spirits, men whose music […]
Mayer’s Playlist From September 2010
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: Blood/Candy, by The Posies “Who’s got into that 80s radio?” ask the Posies at the start of “Licenses to Hide.” It is an appropriate question for a band whose first album dates back to that era. In a triumph of talent and perseverance over the music business vagaries, the Posies are […]
Mayer’s Playlist for August 2010, Part 2
ALBUM OF THE MONTH: Pimps and Preachers, by Paul Thorn Paul Thorn is the Mark Twain of Americana. Possessing an endearing folksy charm, he fills his songs with a potent and intelligent wit. Thorn’s lyrics are typically self-depreciating yet hopeful. A fine example is “I Hope I’m Doing This Right.” After several verses of reflection […]