The countdown to the #1 album of 2005 continues… 7. Mr. Hollywood, Jr., 1947, Michael Penn It’s hard to decide which is more impressive, Michael Penn’s intelligent lyrics or his pop music sensibilities. On his first album in five years, Penn leaves little doubt that both are in peak form and that the combination is […]
“Fresh” Picks for ’06
“They call me the seeker…” because I search low and high for great music. If your New Year’s resolution is to find that elusive gem — the undiscovered album that you won’t know how you lived without — the Discman’s Top 100 Albums can help. It has plenty of Twang, a little bang, and k.d. […]
Best Songs of 2005 (Tom’s Picks)
Here they are, my twenty favorite twang induced songs of the year. They are in no particular order of greatness, simply numbered in the order I burned them to disc. Enjoy! Playlist also available on iTunes. Wicked Twisted Road, Reckless Kelly (from the album Wicked Twisted Road) Texas country at its best from the Austin […]
Notable Release: Alejandro Escovedo
To tide his fans over until his next studio release, Austin legend Alejandro Escovedo released Room of Songs this past Tuesday. The album, recorded live in Austin earlier this year, features Escovedo on guitar backed by a string quartet. For fans, its a reminder of Escovedo’s musical diversity. For non-fans, its a welcome introduction to […]
More Notable Releases: 15 November 2005
Townes Van Zandt, A Private Concert (Varese) Says Steve Earle, “TOWNES VAN ZANDT is the best songwriter in the whole world, and I’ll stand on Bob Dylan’s coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that.” Who am I to argue? Bruce Springsteen, Born to Run: 30th Anniversary Edition (Sony) It would have been enough […]
Album Review: Randy Travis, Glory Train
At its roots, Glory Train is a positive and emotional recording that many will enjoy.