AHI One of my AMA highlights was hearing AHI preview his forthcoming album Prospect. The setting was his producer Paul Mabury’s home studio, nestled in the mountains south of Nashville. A handful of us sat in the studio with AHI, Mabury, and several of the musicians who appeared on the album. In between listening to […]
Americana 2021: Mayer’s Picks (Part 1)
The Americana Music Association Conference and Awards made a welcome return from the virtual world this year. The annual event showcased several hundred artists who collectively illustrate the breadth of the Americana umbrella. Going back through the schedule to consider the highlights is always a frustrating experience. Not only is it tough to feature just […]
Sean Rowe on Tour Foraging and Trusting His Instincts
Singer-songwriter Sean Rowe talks about finding inspiration in Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger” and why he doesn’t like the sound of new guitar strings.
Monday Morning Video – The Accidentals
Michigan’s The Accidentals continue to shine brightly. They have just released the Vessels, the latest in a brilliant string of releases since they began their careers while still in high school. This gem is from their early 2021 release, Time Out Session 1.
Dar Williams on Symbolism, Hotel Coffee, and Learning New Technology
Singer-songwriter Dar Williams recalls working at a gardening store, talks about going on an “apologetic charm offensive” when she breaks a guitar string, and explains why her 2013 Prius is “more of a symbolic plug-in”.
Wesley Stace on Busking, Bingo, and Eating Well on the Road
Songwriter and author Wesley Stace talks about the freedom of touring in his car and starting his career as a busker covering Loudon Wainwright, John Prine, Steve Goodman and John Hiatt songs.
Bob Schneider on Love Shoes and the Value of Having a Good Name
Singer-songwriter Bob Schneider talks about weekly rehearsals at Austin’s Saxon Pub, Holiday Inn Express breakfasts, and working at a t-shirt shop.
Bonus Monday Video – Tom T. Hall & Don Everly
We lost two giants in the past few days – Tom T. Hall and Don Everly. Let’s celebrate their legacies in video fashion. First, a 1970 Everly Brothers tv appearance. The segment is a bit hokey but it speaks to the depth of the talent that Don and his late brother Phil possessed. Then, Tom […]
Darrin Bradbury on “Chevy Van Halen” and Why He Doesn’t Look Back
Singer-songwriter Darrin Bradbury talks about the NJ open mic scene, delivering antique furniture, and why expectations are like assumptions.
Mayer’s Playlist for Summer 2021
Foregone Conclusion, Zach Schmidt (from the Boss Dawg Records release Raise a Banner) Zach Schmidt has been waiting awhile for the release of his sophomore full length album. Not Chinese Democracy long, but long enough. Schmidt recorded the album, backed by producer Sadler Vadan and the 400 Unit (yes, that one), then saw the album […]