Concept albums aren’t a new thing, of course. You may see them less frequently than you used to but they’re still around. Alexander Wren puts a new twist on them, though, with his debut full length album, To Whom It May Concern,. It’s an open letter to the universe: a combination of love letter to […]
Kiss Off – a Special Twangville Playlist, Part 7
A few times over the years I put together a series of special playlists featuring my favorite kiss off songs. Despite what some may think, I’m really not that cynical. Rather, I just appreciate how some songwriters can tackle the topic with humor and bite. It’s kind of like a genre unto itself. There have […]
Monday Morning Video – Tristen
I’m a sucker for a great pop song and this is a classic toe tapper. Nashville’s Tristen performing “Glass Jar” from her 2017 release Sneaker Waves.
Mayer’s Playlist for Spring 2023, Part 2
Suicide of Town, Ben de la Cour (from the Julian Records release Sweet Anhedonia) There isn’t a lot of sunshine in Ben de la Cour’s music and Sweet Anhedonia is no exception. Heck, the album is titled after the condition of not being able to experience pleasure. But that’s part of the Nashville singer-songwriter’s magic […]
Monday Morning Video – Anthony Da Costa
Anthony Da Costa spends much of time as an in-demand side man, performing with everyone from Sunny War to Yola to David Wax Museum. Left to his own devices, however, he is quite the singer-songwriter. Here’s “Everybody Want’s Their Person”, captured live in Nashville last year.
Wilder Woods on Recording Band Rehearsals and Graduating to a Tour Bus
Bear Rinehart – aka Wilder Woods – talks about working as a jet ski technician, burning incense in his rehearsal space, and why hearing “no” doesn’t mean that you’re wrong.
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 […]
Darren Jessee on his J45 Guitar and Living Room Rehearsals
Darren Jessee talks about touring as a freelance drummer and his first sole songwriter credit for an official release.