Being a sought-after sideman has its advantages. One of those is that when you do your own album, you can pull in favors to fill out the band. Ben Balmer strikes gold in that vein on his latest record, Honky-Tonk Macbeth. The instrumental additions to Balmer’s solid singer-songwriter compositions fill the room with layers of […]
Dar Williams on Symbolism, Hotel Coffee, and Learning New Technology
Singer-songwriter Dar Williams recalls working at a gardening store, talks about going on an “apologetic charm offensive” when she breaks a guitar string, and explains why her 2013 Prius is “more of a symbolic plug-in”.
Tony Kamel – Back Down Home
They say you can never go home. Clearly that’s more about the time than the location, but I’ve seen both be possible. Tony Kamel, front man for the Grammy-winning Wood & Wire, seems to be one of those exceptions. At the urging of iconic Texas musician and producer, Bruce Robison, Tony has just released his […]
Monday Morning Video – Mavis Staples “The Weight”
Love this version of “The Weight” performed by Mavis Staples and the Jools Holland Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. A mighty big voice + a mighty big band = one powerful performance.
Spencer Cullum on French Fries and Playing Less Notes
Pedal steel guitarist Spencer Cullum talks about the crème de la crème of touring machines, working at a blood bank, and his dogs cameo appearance on his new album.
Mike and Bob Delevante on Truck Stops and Good Intentions
The Delevantes talk about their legendary New Year’s Eve parties and playing “Foggy Mountain Breakdown”
Martin Sexton on His Last Day Job and Finding Great Food While on Tour
Martin Sexton talks about thumpy, muted guitar tones and why he switched his solo tour vehicle from a Land Cruiser to a Suburban.
Adrian + Meredith – Bad For Business
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.