ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: I Recall Standing As Though Nothing Could Fall, by Matthew Ryan If I needed proof as to why Matthew Ryan is among my favorite songwriters, I needn’t look any further than his explanation of his latest release: It wasn’t my intention to make a gloomy album. I know it will be […]
Readers’ Pick: BoDeans, “Indigo Dreamsâ€
READERS PICK: JULY 2011 Twangville readers picked Indigo Dreams by the BoDeans as their favorite album of July 2011. If you’ve never heard the 90s hit wonder “Closer To Free” you must be living on Mars or a country awfully close to the red planet. Featured as the theme song to Fox’s hit show “Party […]
Fall 2011 Release Preview
It is hard to believe that summer is nearly over. How do I know this? I was at a music club on Saturday that had changed over their Sam Adams tap from Summer to Octoberfest. Talk about jumping the gun! Anyway, the next few weeks will unleash an abundance of great new music just in […]
Listen Up: Rave On Buddy Holly
When Buddy Holly died in a tragic plane crash in 1959, the world lost a tremendous musical talent. Only 22, Holly demonstrates a depth of talent rivaled by few in rock history. As important, he inspired generations of rock artists who now return the favor with a wide-ranged tribute to the rock legend. The sheer […]
Mayer’s Picks: The Best of 2011, So Far (The Songs)
Stacy C’Mon, Maxim Ludwig & the Santa Fe Seven This song has held a permanent place on my music rotation since I first saw Ludwig and crew light up an afternoon crowd with it at SXSW. It’s simply impossible to not get caught up in the sheer enthusiasm of the “na na na” chorus. Audio […]
Mayer’s Picks: The Best of 2011, So Far (The Albums)
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
Really Rockin’ in Boston: A Special Playlist
Here’s the latest installment of my playlist series highlighting the latest and greatest in New England music. Zero, Sea Monsters (from the Q-Dee Records single Zero b/w Don’t Make Me Wait) It’s about time that we let you in on a little Boston secret. They’re called the Sea Monsters and for over three years they’ve […]
Mayer’s Playlist from May 2011
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH: I’ll Never Get Out of This World Alive, by Steve Earle Steve Earle could perhaps be America’s most honest songwriter. When one listens to his albums there is never a doubt what he is thinking. Whether railing against George W. Bush (“Little Emperor”) or pledging his love (“Every Part of Me”) […]