I posted my list of favorite from the first half of 2023 back in June (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. Whatever Helps You Sleep, Abby Hamilton (from the Blue Gown Records release #1 Zookeeper (of the San […]
Guy Forsyth Video Premiere – Rider
At the risk of mixing metaphors, Guy Forsyth started his journey washing dishes and mucking stalls in the musical kingdom of Austin. From those early days of busking on the UT campus he worked his way up to leading multiple bands and securing a residency at Antone’s, the throne room of Texas blues. Along the […]
Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia – Blood Brothers: Live in Canada
As reviewers, and volunteer reviewers at that, sometimes we miss things. More than a few times I’ve realized that some music I overlooked was actually pretty good, and I wanted to take a “Mulligan” by reviewing something well after its release. When Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia released their collaboration album, Blood Brothers, early this […]
Robert Finley – Black Bayou
Robert Finley is releasing his fourth album “Black Bayou”, but still there are a lot of people unfamiliar with him and his unusual backstory. In fact, Finley didn’t even take up music full time until he was in his sixties. This on the face of it doesn’t seem like the most opportune time in his […]
Save Me From Myself – a Premiere From Jonah Tolchin
Jonah Tolchin is an Americana artist in the truest sense of the word – one who relentlessly explores every musical crevice of the genre. From folk to rock and from country to blues, Tolchin has explored it all over the course of his career. Dockside, his latest album, goes deep into the blues. Tolchin travelled […]
Buffalo Nichols on Gas Station Hot Dogs and His Last Day Job
Blues artist Buffalo Nichols talks about saving money on tour and what happened on the ride home from his first gig.
Popa Chubby and the Beast Band – Live at G. Bluey’s Juke Joint NYC
Popa Chubby isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a guitar slinger to liven up your night, he just might be the guy. Born Ted Horowitz in the Bronx during the final days of the Eisenhower administration, Popa Chubby devoured the rock music that surrounded him in the late 60s and early 70s, Chubby […]
Bonus Monday Video – The Meadowlark Festival
Our friends at The Meadowlark Festival have something special cooking. Let’s start with the setting – the Stone Ridge Orchard and Farmers Market in New York’s Hudson Valley. Pick some apples (and maybe grab some cider…) as you enjoy a wonderful and eclectic weekend of music. Among their featured performers are renowned folk/blues singer-songwriter Chris […]
Samantha Fish on Pizza, Hannah Montana, and New Orleans
Blues artist Samantha Fish talks about how Miley Cyrus helped her get her first gig, her first live record, and curating a style in the age of social media.
Mayer’s Picks – the Best of 2023 (So Far), the Albums
Stand in the Joy by William Prince Stand in the Joy is the kind of album that you can get lost in – Prince’s voice and songs are as soothing as they are poignant. Best listened to with your eyes closed. Sweet Anhedonia by Ben de la Cour Sweet Anhedonia is richly textured and darkly […]