The latest single from California’s New Earth Farmers is uplifting in both melody and spirit. Sure, the lyrics are somewhat forlorn but not without a sense of buoyancy. The song pays tribute to a life dedicated to music, closing with a sentiment likely shared by artists and listeners alike: “The music’s still going and I […]
JD Clayton on Tour Van Tetris and Committing to His Craft
Arkansas-born singer and songwriter JD Clayton talks about playing for his grandparents at a Starbucks while in college and why he chooses quality over quantity when it comes to tour food.
Monday Morning Video – Abraham, Martin, and John
Originally recorded by Dion in 1968, this song has taken on a life of its own. Here are some classic performances, courtesy of Ray Charles, Emmylou Harris, and Dion.
The Burnt Pines – Don’t Look Down
If there’s one thing the pandemic cemented in the music industry it’s that technology has enabled production of great records without the players ever being in the same room ala the “recording session” process of yesteryear. A fine example of that is The Burnt Pines, an indie folk group with members based in both the […]
Erik Huey on Velvet Elvis Paintings and Roadie Work
Erik Huey of the Surreal McCoys talks about touring in the “Family Truckster”, his happy place (Cowboy Technical Studios), and the mishap that happened at his band’s first gig.
Monday Morning Video – Darling West and Lissie
American singer-songwriter Lissie teams up with Norwegian duo Darling West for this stellar performance of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams”.
Chip’s Best of Americana 2022
First off, year-end lists are hard to do. Especially rank ordering, which becomes murky as you proceed down the list. That being said number one was a no brainer for me. Marcus King’s “Young Blood” was addictive start to finish with his blues-tinged 70’s arena rock. Below is the rest of my list: 2. Old […]
The Twangville Early 2023 Release Preview
Out of the Heart of Darkness by L.A. Edwards (6 January) L.A. Edwards kick of the year with an often brooding but always engaging song collection. Although the group hails from California, they make a mighty fine heartland rock sound. I’m Not Crying, You’re Crying by Whitehorse (13 January) The Canadian duo of Melissa McClelland […]
Mayer’s Picks – Best Songs of 2022, Part 2
I posted my list of favorite from the first half of 2022 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. Paranoid Heart, John Fullbright (from the Blue Dirt Records release The Liar) “Well maybe […]
Kevn Kinney on Tour Van Maintenance and Why He Used to Love Band Rehearsals
Kevn Kinney of Drivin N Cryin talks about opening for the Black Crowes and the Violent Femmes and an old day job working as a carpenter.