With spring finally arriving in most of the country and summer just around the corner, it’s time to lighten up your playlist. The world is less about introspection in front of the fireplace and more about sunshine and flip-flops. Austinite Mike Donello, and his band The New Essentials, are genius at pulling off that casual […]
Taj Mahal – Savoy
At 80, Taj Mahal is more than an elder statesman for the blues. Like his namesake is to India, he is a national treasure. With the old-timey Savoy, Mahal revisits his youth while continuing his lifelong habit of never being pigeonholed in a particular style. After a run with Ry Cooder in an underrated band […]
The Rough & Tumble – Only This Far
One of my best finds at this year’s Folk Alliance was The Rough & Tumble, the musical duo of Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler . A couple based out of, well, let me get back to that, they have a modern folk, bluegrass-tinged sound that’s a little bit joyous and a little bit philosophical. On […]
Doug Levitt on Theme Parks and Traveling by Greyhound Bus
Singer-songwriter Doug Levitt talks about a co-write from his middle school years and his last proper, full-time gig.
Alexander Beggins of Wild Child on Hummus and Getting Stranded in Canada
Alexander Beggins of indie rock band Wild Child talks about the band’s approach to their first album and the importance of appreciating little moments and tiny victories.
Monday Morning Video – Annie Hamilton
Annie Hamilton was one of my favorite discoveries at this year’s SXSW. As this song illustrates, the melodic intensity of her music is captivating.
Mayer’s Playlist for Spring 2023, Part 1
Rockaway, Brian Dunne (from the Kill Rock Stars release Loser on the Ropes) Brian Dunne sets a clear tone for his latest album with its title. Loser on the Ropes chronicles life in a troubled world, focused on the personal rather than the geo-political. The characters in his songs are often taking stock of their […]
Logan Halstead – Dark Black Coal
Comfort is a small town in southwest West Virginia. As the saying goes, it’s a place to be from, not where you want to go. A kid growing up there knows from an early age they want out. But like a socio-economic black hole, that’s easier said than done. Poverty has a way of desensitizing […]
David Garza on His Tour Diet Closer and The Best “Job” Ever
Singer/songwriter/guitarist/producer David Garza talks about playing his 7th grade talent show and “PB&J”, the song.
Del Barber on Music Business Loyalty and Working on a Farm
Canadian singer-songwriter Del Barber talks about removing a skunk from his rehearsal space, sleeping in his car while on tour, and his band family.