J.R. Jones talks about finding a decent cup of coffee, working as a bread baker, and how the music industry is like a knife fight.
New Moon Jelly Roll Freedom Rockers, Vol. 2
Sequels are so often disappointing, but not this time. Last October, Stony Plain released a great set of jam sessions featuring blues masters Charlie Musselwhite and Alvin Youngblood Hart, together with former Squirrel Nut Zipper Jimbo Mathus, North Mississippi Allstars brothers Luther and Cody Dickinson and their father Jim that were recorded in 2007. Now, […]
Monday Morning Video – Buddy Guy
How ’bout some vintage blues to start the week? Here’s Buddy Guy performing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” and “My Time After Awhile” back in 1969.
Jorma Kaukonen on Managing a Gas Station and Waiting for the Next Big Thing
Jorma Kaukonen from Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna talks about why bus drivers have to be magicians, his rehearsal space, and modern roadside America.
Selwyn Birchwood – Living in a Burning House
I caught Selwyn Birchwood’s act a few years ago at the Philly Folk Festival (remember when we could go to festivals?), and I was immediately won over by the barefoot bluesman. Already an award winning guitarist, Living in a Burning House cements his credentials as one of the leading younger lights in the blues world. […]
The Twangville Early 2021 Release Preview
Happily, 2021 is upon us! Here are just a few forthcoming long-players that we are eagerly anticipating in the coming months. J.T. by STEVE EARLE AND THE DUKES (4 Jan) Steve Earle pays tribute to his late son – and raises funds to support the late artist’s wife and 3-year-old daughter – by recording a […]
Bill’s Blues-Based Best of 2020
Well, it’s over. We got through it, and, while it 2020 was a monster in so many ways, there were some choice blues albums that hit the street. Below is a dozen of my favorite blues (or ‘bluesy’) albums of 2020. Sonny Landreth – Blacktop Run. It’s a great album for when you’re on the […]
Dancing in the Streets of Hyannis – A Special Boston Playlist
Light a Candle, The Suitcase Junket (from the Renew Records / BMG release The End Is New) Matt Lorenz – aka The Suitcase Junket – has always had a penchant for great melodies, but he rachets it up a notch with a particular focus on sing-alongs with The End Is New. As notable, he continues […]
Mayer’s Picks – Best Songs of 2020, Part 2
I posted my list of favorite from the first half of 2020 back in July (here). Rather than replicate that list for my full year review, consider this a continuation — the best songs from the second half of the year. I Remember Everything, John Prine I Don’t Want This (Job Interview), Jackson Emmer (from […]
Mayer’s Picks – Best Albums of 2020, Boston/Dallas Edition
I’m fortunate to be able to explore and enjoy the music scenes of two cities – Boston and Dallas. Artists from both metropolitan areas have released some exceptional music this year. Here are a few favorites. Love it local. DEEP IN THE HEART OF TEXAS Quiet Lives by Garrett Owen Gorgeous and entrancing are the […]