The Ted Hawkins story is among the most unique in American music. The Biloxi Mississippi native spent years as a street busker, most notably serenading passers-by on Venice Beach, CA while perched on a milk crate. He was “discovered” several times but never found significant success. His graveled voice and insistent guitar were his calling […]
Rebekah Rolland – Seed & Silo
Music sometimes does a really good job of building a visual image for the listener. Â On her debut solo album, Seed & Silo, Rebekah Rolland paints a number of vivid pictures inspired in part by her experience as a National Parks Artist-In-Residence. There’s the pioneering homestead from Willa Cather’s Midwest on Hole In the Earth. […]
Newport Folk Fest 2018 Feature – Artist You Should Know: Hiss Golden Messenger
Ever had that moment when you discover a musical artist and you’re just hooked? I’ve been listening to talented artists for a long time but when I come across someone new whose amazing music opens my eyes, I immediately go into a phase. When I started “studying” for Newport Folk Fest this year I found lots […]
Monday Morning Video – a Brent Best Double Play
One of the great things about spending time in Dallas has been the opportunity to see some of the local legends, not the least of which is Denton’s Brent Best. I saw him two weeks ago and he played this tremendous unreleased gem called “Footnote.” What’s not to like about a chorus that goes, “I […]
Monday Morning Video – Flagship Romance
Ok, so last week’s selection was somber, albeit moving. Let’s start this week at the other end of the spectrum. Flagship Romance is the duo of Shawn Fisher & Jordyn Jackson. They offer up some inspiring life lessons in “Scare Yourself,” from their most recent release entitled Tales from the Self-Help Section.
Mayer’s Picks – The Best of 2018 (So Far), the Songs
Here are some of my favorite songs this year. An eclectic lot to be sure. The Fold, Brent Cowles (from the Dine Alone Records release How To Be OK Alone) Easily my favorite song so far this year. Cowles confronts anxiety and self-doubt with a determined and uplifting anthem. Tough Folks, American Aquarium (from the […]
Monday Morning Video – A.J. LeGrand
This certainly isn’t the most uplifting song by which to start the week. Nonetheless it is a wonderful introduction to Texas singer-songwriter A.J. LeGrand. LeGrand is a masterful storyteller, filling his songs with colorful rural characters who try to balance big dreams with arduous realities. There are many more poignant tales to be found on […]
Mayer’s Picks – the Best of 2018 (So Far), the Albums
It’s been a good year for music so far this year (and the rest of the year is looking quite nice, too). Here, in no particular order, are some of my favorite releases from the first half of 2018. HOW TO BE OK ALONE by BRENT COWLES Cowles shares a debut solo full-length that is […]
Monday Morning Video – The Soulful Side of Langhorne Slim
Langhorne Slim has firmly established himself as one of the leading, albeit criminally lesser-known, lights of roots Americana. The beauty and honesty in his songwriting is captivating; the passion of his live performances, whether solo or full band, is exhilarating. Part of what sets him apart is the soulfulness that infuses his music. Here are […]
Mayer’s Playlist for Spring 2018, Part 3
Easy Ways, Andrew Duhon (from the self-released False River) Andrew Duhon is an old soul. One can hear it both in the warmth of his voice and the captivating charm of his songs. The New Orleans singer-songwriter bridges pop, folk and a touch of jazz into a sound that is gloriously captivating. Some of his […]