One of the things I find so intriguing about music is how an artist, citing the same influences as their peers, can nonetheless produce a totally unique sound. Current Nashville residents Adrian + Meredith exemplify that on their latest album, Bad For Business. Listing unsurprising inspirations like Bruce Springsteen, Nina Simone, and Aretha Franklin, the […]
AJ Lee & Blue Summit – I’ll Come Back
Although not as well known as what’s happening in the Rockies or Appalachians, there’s a strong bluegrass scene in the northern California Bay Area. The most famous product of that community right now is undoubtedly Molly Tuttle. But there are several other emerging talents, notably AJ Lee and her band, Blue Summit. In fact, Lee […]
Bob Schneider on Love Shoes and the Value of Having a Good Name
Singer-songwriter Bob Schneider talks about weekly rehearsals at Austin’s Saxon Pub, Holiday Inn Express breakfasts, and working at a t-shirt shop.
Monday Morning Video – John Hiatt “Slow Turning”
Sharing this performance not because John Hiatt is a masterful songwriter (although he is) but rather for a particular lyrical reference. Now I’m in my carI got the radio downAn’ I’m a’yellin’ at the kids in the back‘Cause they’re bangin’ like’a Charlie Watts This performance, featuring Sonny Landreth (tucked away in the back on slide […]
Tim Easton – You Don’t Really Know Me
Nashville-based singer-songwriter Tim Easton is releasing his new album, “You Don’t Really Know Meâ€, tomorrow August 27th. It is no doubt some of his finest work, which is saying a lot for someone with a highly acclaimed 20-year career under his belt. It is also his most personal album. Although it seems trite to call […]
Rob Waller of I See Hawks in LA on Waffle House and Cobra Kai
Singer and guitarist Rob Waller of I See Hawks in LA talks recalls a memorable day job and having to climb out a window to escape from his first gig.
Afton Wolfe on The Hustle Economy and Embracing Inconveniences
Nashville musician Afton Wolfe talks about his perfect first gig, an after-hours party at Baskin Robbins, and what music does best.
Monday Morning Video – Mavis Staples & Friends
Let’s continue with the “and friends” theme that we started last week. Next up is a three-fer from the great Mavis Staples. First, a 1988 performance of the Staples Singers classic “I’ll Take You There” that features Dr. John and Jeff Healey. Second, a 2011 backstage rehearsal of the Band’s “The Weight” with Wilco and […]
The Northern Belle’s “Kaleidoscope Dream” – A Twangville Premiere
Earlier this year Norway’s The Northern Belle honored John Prine with an exquisite version of the late singer-songwriter’s “Summer’s Endâ€. Now that summer really is coming to an end, the group is marking the occasion with the release of a new mini-album called The Women In Me. The album’s opening track really sets the tone for the collection. […]
“Indiana” – A Premiere from Ward Hayden and the Outliers
Boston’s Ward Hayden has never been one to pull his punches, especially in recent years. On the band’s forthcoming Free Country, he directs it somewhere unexpected: at the state of Indiana. We’ll let Hayden explain: This is the meanest song I’ve written. I’ve spent 15 years of my life touring and traveling the country. I […]