Here, in no particular order, are some of my favorites from 2011. Here’s to more great music in the back half! HERE WE REST, JASON ISBELL & THE 400 UNIT Isbell continues to mature as a songwriter, exploring the more soulful and acoustic side of his Alabama music heritage. Which isn’t to say that he […]
Monday Morning Video: Greg Behrendt on music reviews
The Twangville posse has been catching up on The Onion’s Summer Music Issue. It reminded me of this equally entertaining bit from comedian Greg Behrendt. Greg Behrendt – Indie Rock Fans
Blackie and the Rodeo Kings – Kings and Queens
Not so long ago when someone said the latest record from a group was more “radio friendly” it meant they’d sold out and gone from what made them unique to something more appealing to the mainstream, at least as judged by some nameless, faceless A & R guy. Â But with most people listening to music […]
Mayer’s Playlist From June 2011, Part 2
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: Queen of the Minor Key, by Eilen Jewell It is perhaps fitting that Dave Alvin and Eilen Jewell have just released new albums. Both are flagbearers of American roots music, adept at a wide array of styles but imbuing everything that they do with integrity and authenticity. Jewell is often compares […]
Monday Morning Video: Dave Alvin on the Fourth of July
Is there any doubt what song would be this week’s Monday Morning Video? Here’s a truly special performance that finds Dave joining brother Phil last year in Chicago.
Gillian Welch – The Harrow & the Harvest
As practically everyone who reads this blog is aware, it’s been 8 years since one of Americana’s most acclaimed artists, Gillian Welch, has released an album. Â With all the anticipation, Team Twangville decided to do the more-is-better approach and give you a variety of thoughts on the record. Â I’ll start with my reaction… Miles […]
Mayer’s Playlist for June 2011, Part 1
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: Eleven Eleven, by Dave Alvin It’s hard to believe that this Alvin’s first full album of new songs since 2004’s Ashgrove. Not that he hasn’t been active; Alvin has put out a series of live albums that showcase gems from his songbook with a variety of musicians and arrangements. I, however, […]
Dan Hubbard and the Humadors – The Love Show
It wasn’t that long ago when someone asked me “Why doesn’t anyone make Rock n’ Roll” anymore?” Like many folks, he quit looking for new music after he graduated college, and was now trying to search the radio for new Rock n’ Roll. If he asked that today, I would give him a copy of […]
Monday Morning Video: New Matthew Ryan
The title about says it all. Later this summer Matthew Ryan will officially release I Recall Standing As Though Nothing Could Fall. And as the definition of “release” continues to get blurry, you can purchase a digital download of the full release now. Buy it here. And as a special bonus, here’s a stripped down […]
Readers’ Pick: My Morning Jacket, “Circuitalâ€
READERS PICK: MAY 2011 Twangville readers picked My Morning Jacket‘s Circuital as their favorite album of May 2011. If there’s anyone out there redefining classic rock it’s Jim James and My Morning Jacket. Circuital the band’s sixth LP takes me back to 70’s era Pink Floyd where sound was used to paint vivid pictures of […]