Arms & Legs and Flowers, Ian Hunter (from the New West Records release Man Overboard) It’s no accident that Ian Hunter gets two mentions on this list. The legendary singer-songwriter is a true rock and roll poet, writing magnificent songs that combine simplicity with depth. “Arms & Legs” is an inspirational tribute to love built […]
Mayer’s Best of 2009 (the songs), Part 1
Give Me Tomorrow, Willie Nile (from the River House Records release House of a Thousand Guitars) Nile’s eternal optimism reigns supreme, most notably on this spirited testament to change and opportunity. “I’ve seen poison in the waters, heard the crying of the sea, I have heard your sons and daughters say what’s to become of […]
Kelly’s Top 25 for 2009
In year’s past, I haven’t done much a personal “Best-Of” list at year’s end. I have left that up to others, mainly due to the stress level inherent with such a task. This year, I contributed a list to multiple outlets, so I figure I would share my ballot with you here. What you see […]
Mayer’s Best of 2009
#1. LUCERO, 1372 Overton Park (Republic/Universal) The former residents of 1372 Overton Park in Memphis let loose a potent blend of classic rock anthems and horn-infused Southern soul. Fueled by singer-songwriter Ben Nichol’s gritty vocals and filled with lyrics about whiskey-filled nights and the mornings after, this one is a barnburner. (Twangville review here and […]
Mayer’s Playlist for Fall 2009, Part 3
I’ve got some catching up to do. A heavy travel schedule has kept me from my monthly playlist duties. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had the pleasure to visit some impressive places. Even better, I’ve had plenty of great new music to keep me company along the way. Well, it’s time to make up for […]
Mayer’s Playlist for Fall 2009, Part 2
I’ve got some catching up to do. A heavy travel schedule has kept me from my monthly playlist duties. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had the pleasure to visit some impressive places. Even better, I’ve had plenty of great new music to keep me company along the way. Well, it’s time to make up for […]
Mayer’s Playlist for Fall 2009, Part 1
I’ve got some catching up to do. A heavy travel schedule has kept me from my monthly playlist duties. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had the pleasure to visit some impressive places. Even better, I’ve had plenty of great new music to keep me company along the way. Well, it’s time to make up for […]
The Rock Hall @ 25: Night One (Part 2)
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary Concerts, Night One 29 October 2009 @ Madison Square Garden, New York City Headliners: Crosby, Stills & Nash; Paul Simon; Simon & Garfunkel; Stevie Wonder; Bruce Springsteen Guests: Jerry Lee Lewis, Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne, James Taylor, Dion DiMucci, Little Anthony & the Imperials, Smokey Robinson, John […]
Celebrating the Rock Hall of Fame: Night One
Tom Hanks may have kicked things off with a hearty “Hail Hail Rock and Roll,†but it was the legendary Jerry Lee Lewis (HoF inaugural class of 1986) who got the party started. The 74-year old was clearly showing his age yet still showed his spark as he knocked out a healthy version of “Whole […]
Slipping Through the Cracks 2009 (Round Up and Downloads)
All these records came out this year and have been piling up on my digital nightstand. They’re all good too. Enjoy the downloads, graciously provided by the artists/labels involved. Zach Seibert & the Red Wagon An Americana dream of atmospheric folk and country inspired rock and roll, Learning to Drown is Zach Seibert’s first real […]