It doesn’t happen often, but on occasion a cover version can rival the original version. Here’s one of my faves in that category – Al Green laying claim to the Bee Gees’ “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart”.
Touchin’ Down in New England Town – a Special Boston Playlist
By My Lonesome, GA-20 (from the album Karma Chief Records release Live in Loveland) Just Because, GA-20 (from the Karma Chief Records release Crackdown) Blues band GA-20 have emerged from the pandemic with a vengeance. Their non-stop touring aside, they are releasing their second album in seven months. Both are tremendous showcases for the group’s […]
Monday Morning Video – Robert Randolph
I saw Robert Randolph a few weeks back when he joined New Orleans greats Galactic for a handful of shows at the legendary Blue Note jazz club. It was a welcome reminder of the funk and the fury that Randolph can deliver. Here are two rousing live Randolph and the Family Band performances from 2013.
Mayer’s Playlist for Jan/Feb 2023
Missing Someone, Jaimee Harris (from the Folk N Roll Records/Thirty Tigers release Boomerang Town) Harris’ eagerly awaited sophomore release has arrived – and it’s a beauty. What makes it even compelling is that its beauty isn’t easy. Harris fills her songs with difficult topics and troubled characters, digging into them with a thoughtful perspective. The […]
Ben Ellman of Galactic on Tipitinas, McCabe’s Guitar Shop, and “The Heavy Metal Hotel”
Saxaphonist Ben Ellman of New Orleans’ Galactic talks about a highlight of every tour and time spent working as a line cook at the legendary New Orleans music club that he and the band now own.
Bonus Monday Video – Paul Weller Covers Curtis Mayfield
Here’s Paul Weller and the Jam, well, kicking out some jams with his take on Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up”.
Monday Morning Video – Curtis Mayfield “Move On Up”
Let’s kick off the week with one of the greats – the late Curtis Mayfield performing his classic “Move On Up” at a festival back in 1987. Just move on upTo a greater dayWith just a little faithIf you put your mind to it, you can surely do it
Monday Morning Video – Abraham, Martin, and John
Originally recorded by Dion in 1968, this song has taken on a life of its own. Here are some classic performances, courtesy of Ray Charles, Emmylou Harris, and Dion.
Mayer’s Picks – Best Songs of 2022, Part 2
I posted my list of favorite from the first half of 2022 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. Paranoid Heart, John Fullbright (from the Blue Dirt Records release The Liar) “Well maybe […]
Mayer’s Picks – Best Albums of 2022, 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. LOVE THAT DIRTY WATER (BOSTON YOU’RE MY HOME) Crackdown by GA-20 Two guitars and a set […]