Here, in no particular order, are more favorites from 2021.
Mayer’s Picks – Best Songs of 2021, Part 2
I posted my list of favorite from the first half of 2021 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. What’s The Matter/Ft. Walton Wake-Up Call, James McMurtry (from the New West Records release […]
Mayer’s Picks – Best Albums of 2021, Boston/Dallas Edition
I’m fortunate to be able to explore and enjoy the music scenes of two cities – Boston and Dallas. Artists from both metropolitan areas have released some exceptional music this year. Here are a few favorites. Love it local. DEEP IN THE HEART OF TEXAS Sunset Diner by Brandon Callies Callies chronicles a painful break-up […]
Mayer’s Picks – Best of 2021, the Albums
10. Obviously by Lake Street Dive Glorious smooth and silken pop, a mix of songs earnest and spirited – Obviously is another gem from Lake Street Dive. Key Tracks: Hypotheticals, Hush Money, Same Old News, Nobody’s Stopping You Now, Anymore 9. Vessel by The Accidentals Sav Buist and Katie Larson shift away from their folk […]
Mayer’s Playlist for Winter 2021
One Step Ahead of the Law, Stash (from the self-released Walk the Walk) Stash – the trio of Ted Russell Kamp, Joey Peters, and Rich McCulley – announce themselves with one hell of a rock album. Well, country rock in all its glory. While I lean towards the rockers like the fiery “Catch Me If You […]
Mayer’s Playlist for Fall 2021, Part 2
Cityview, The Accidentals (from the self-released Vessels) With the addition of drummer Michael Dause the Accidentals have expanded their musical palette into full-on rock territory. Songs like opener “Count the Rings”, “Rollercoaster” and “Slow and Steady” bristle with an electric guitar and bass fueled energy. That said, the group also mine familiar acoustic cello and […]
Eleanor Buckland on Soundcheck Tricks and Her Dolly Parton “Co-Write”
Singer-songwriter Eleanor Buckland of Lula Wiles, who has just released a solo album, talks about working as a nanny and competing in the Franklin County Fair Fiddle Contest when she was in the 2nd grade.
Monday Morning Video – Stephen Kellogg’s Thanksgiving
It’s been a few years since we’ve shared Stephen Kellogg’s ode to – and hopes for – Thanksgiving. This seems like a good year to share it again. Oh Thanksgiving, the harvest draws to a closeRedemption is a bugle humility composedSweet forgiveness, thawing across frozen groundCasting light eternally, carrying its sound
Ian Jones on Acrylic Fingernails and Hiring a Producer
Singer-songwriter Ian Jones talks about getting hooked on applause at his first gig and being a general contractor (and using the experience to build his home rehearsal space).
Monday Morning Video – Jack Ingram
Last week was long and this week is shaping up to be even longer. Jack Ingram’s “I’m Drinking Through It” may be about dealing with heartbreak but seems like a suitable anthem for the week.