Every now and then I run into someone I work with living my own dream, to play in a band. This time around its John Mahlinha drummer of DC act, city-state. The band lists The Cure, Interpol, Joy Division, Radiohead, Versus, British Sea Power and Coldplay as influences on their MySpace page. I can’t help […]
Mayer’s Playlist for January 2006
1. A Way to Say Goodbye, Mike Viola (from the album Just Before Dark) An achingly beautiful ballad recorded live in an LA club, with captivating vocals from Inara George. 2. You Made Your Bed, Daddy (from the album Daddy at the Women’s Club) Featuring the mighty Will Kimbrough and partner in crime Tommy Womack, […]
Notable Releases: January 24, 2006
Patty Hurst Shifter, Too Crowded on the Losind End (Evo Recordings) The first of several anticipated releases this quarter, North Carolina’s Patty Hurst Shifter deliver solid rock and roll with a touch of the South. The band delivers some tear-stained ballads but is at its best with in-your-face rockers. (See my earlier preview here.) Cat […]
New Releases from Robert Pollard & more
The beginning of the year, new release yawnfest tapers down this week with a few new releases. — T.O. My hopeful pick of the week for January 24, 2005: Robert Pollard From a Compound Eye (Merge) indie, rock Other notable releases include: Patty Hurst Shifter, Too Crowded on the Losing End (Evo) alt-country The Gourds, […]
Mayer’s Picks for ’06
Streets of New York, Willie Nile It’s hard to believe that it has been over six years since Willie last released an album. He is an American original, crafting some of the most refreshing rock anthems around. Don’t believe me? Check out the impressive list of others endorsing him on his web site. (Expected release: […]
Mayer’s 2005 Picks: The Songs
Here, in no particular order, are my favorite songs from 2005. Washed by the Water, Will Hoge (available for download at Hoge’s web site) In a song as inspiring as it is inspired, Will Hoge leads a gospel revival for New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. “Down here we are washed by the water, the […]
Mayer’s 2005 Picks: The Albums (pt. 2)
The countdown to the #1 album of 2005 continues… 7. Mr. Hollywood, Jr., 1947, Michael Penn It’s hard to decide which is more impressive, Michael Penn’s intelligent lyrics or his pop music sensibilities. On his first album in five years, Penn leaves little doubt that both are in peak form and that the combination is […]
Mayer’s 2005 Picks: The Albums (pt. 1)
With another year behind us, we at Twangville poured through our cd players and iPods to pick our favorites of 2005. Over the next week I’ll be highlighting my favorite albums and songs from 2005, culminating with a preview of some highly anticipated 2006 releases. 14. Den of Thieves , The Trews This was a […]