Another of my favorite SXSW discoveries this year was the band Roanoke. “If You’re Gonna Leave” – from 2022’s Wolf Motel is a particular favorite. If you’ve seen it, tell me that this shouldn’t have been the theme song of the Amazon series “Daisy Jones and the Six”.
Mike Donello – Rendezvous
With spring finally arriving in most of the country and summer just around the corner, it’s time to lighten up your playlist. The world is less about introspection in front of the fireplace and more about sunshine and flip-flops. Austinite Mike Donello, and his band The New Essentials, are genius at pulling off that casual […]
Readers’ Pick: Eilen Jewell – Get Behind the Wheel
You picked Eilen Jewell – Get Behind the Wheel as your favorite new release for the week of May 5, 2023.
Taj Mahal – Savoy
At 80, Taj Mahal is more than an elder statesman for the blues. Like his namesake is to India, he is a national treasure. With the old-timey Savoy, Mahal revisits his youth while continuing his lifelong habit of never being pigeonholed in a particular style. After a run with Ry Cooder in an underrated band […]
The Rough & Tumble – Only This Far
One of my best finds at this year’s Folk Alliance was The Rough & Tumble, the musical duo of Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler . A couple based out of, well, let me get back to that, they have a modern folk, bluegrass-tinged sound that’s a little bit joyous and a little bit philosophical. On […]
Doug Levitt on Theme Parks and Traveling by Greyhound Bus
Singer-songwriter Doug Levitt talks about a co-write from his middle school years and his last proper, full-time gig.
Alexander Beggins of Wild Child on Hummus and Getting Stranded in Canada
Alexander Beggins of indie rock band Wild Child talks about the band’s approach to their first album and the importance of appreciating little moments and tiny victories.
Monday Morning Video – Annie Hamilton
Annie Hamilton was one of my favorite discoveries at this year’s SXSW. As this song illustrates, the melodic intensity of her music is captivating.
Readers’ Pick: Raveis Kole – In the Moment
You picked Raveis Kole – In the Moment as your favorite new release for the week of April 28, 2023.
Mayer’s Playlist for Spring 2023, Part 1
Rockaway, Brian Dunne (from the Kill Rock Stars release Loser on the Ropes) Brian Dunne sets a clear tone for his latest album with its title. Loser on the Ropes chronicles life in a troubled world, focused on the personal rather than the geo-political. The characters in his songs are often taking stock of their […]