Remembering Charlie Daniels – Americana Pioneer

Charlie Daniels

Charlie Daniels singer, songwriter, bandleader, multi-instrumentalist, philanthropist and Country Music Hall of Fame member died Monday from hemorrhagic stroke in Nashville. He was 83 years old.

We all know about Daniels’ most famous for Grammy-winning cross-genre hit song “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” from the 1979 Charlie Daniels Band album “Million Mile Reflections.” The song became even bigger with its inclusion on the soundtrack for the hit movie ‘Urban Cowboy,’ in which Daniels makes an onscreen appearance with his band playing along with the recorded song during the film’s dance contest scene.

Before making the leap into stardom Daniels was a Music Row session musician playing guitar, bass, mandolin and fiddle as needed for the session. often working for his friend, producer Bob Johnston whom he had befriended after meeting on the Ft. Worth club scene . Several of these Johnston-led sessions were for Bob Dylan albums during 1969 and 1970, most notably playing guitar and bass guitar on on Bob Dylan’s 1969 LP ‘Nashville Skyline’ which Danials told Billboard he almost wan’t included.

“They had built the nucleus of that studio band around him with the other two albums he had done in town, ‘Blonde On Blonde’ and ‘John Wesley Harding.’ But the guitarist they wanted [Wayne Moss] could not make the first session because he was already booked elsewhere. So Bob Johnston called me and got me to fill in for him, and Dylan liked what I was doing. I was getting ready to leave but he didn’t want me to leave and asked me to stick around and I wound up doing two more records with him in ‘Self Portrait’ and ‘New Morning.’ But it was happenstance that I was on those initial sessions for Nashville Skyline.”

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Daniels inclusion in these sessions provided other opportunities outside of Country Music.

Producer Pete Drake convinced Ringo Starr to move his ‘Beaucoups of Blues’ sessions from the U.K. to Nashville by telling Starr that within a week Drake’s musician friends could produce more than an albums worth of material. Perhaps recalling those later Beatles recording sessions Ringo reportedly thought this was an ‘impossible’ feat and might have been swayed by witnessing the quickness of the sessions, which had been common for Nashville Country music sessions for years.

Daniels recalled the sessions as “pretty typical Nashville sessions. You know, three songs in three hours. It was go in, sit down and work. Here’s the songs, here’s the chords, let’s get it done. It was not a Beatles-type leisurely session. It was work.”

Starr, apparently convinced, said of the sessions, “We did the album in two nights. … I was only there three days recording. I’d learn five songs in the morning and I’d go and record five songs that night. It was really good.”

This led to the most unlikely gig in Daniels’ career, playing with Leonard Cohen.

Daniels recalled in his biography ‘Never Look At The Empty Seats.’ “When Bob Johnston brought Leonard Cohen to Nashville to record an album, I have to admit that I knew very little about him and was completely unfamiliar with his music.Leonard was a totally different kind of artist than any I had ever worked with. His music was sensitive and haunting, and the imagery of his lyrics was abstract and poetic, like a Georgia O’Keeffe painting. … When I first heard ‘Bird on the Wire,’ I didn’t know what to think. Here was a truly unique artist, and his songs were so delicate that one out-of-place guitar lick could bend it out of shape. When you worked with Leonard, you had to listen closely and get in sync with what he was trying to convey. You had to interpret it in the same musical frame he was operating in. Sometimes it only called for a well-placed note or two, sparse but meaningful. I know that sounds philosophical and stilted, but so was Leonard’s music. You needed to be in a certain frame of mind, and it was a challenging but satisfying experience.”

Daniels / Leonard

Following the release of the album, ‘Songs From A Room’ (1969), Cohen invited Daniels to join him on tour. “I was asked to be part of the backup band that would be called The Army. It was a different kind of band, mostly acoustical instruments with no drums. We needed to surround Leonard with delicate, genteel sounds. For a bang, slam, redline graduate of thirteen years of honky-tonk and rock and roll, it would be a learning experience.”

Daniels went on to help found the Southern Rock sound that then influenced bands like The Drive-By Truckers and Blackberry Smoke

Though the Americana and roots music community never really warmed up to Daniels, mainly due to his outspoken conservatism and the communities general liberal slant, in 2006 Charlie Daniels received the First Amendment Center / Americana Music Association “Spirit of Americana Free Speech Award” at the 5th Annual Americana Honors & Awards at the Ryman Auditorium ceremony.

Record Store Day 2018: Our Top 11 Americana/Roots Picks

It’s that time of year again. Time to raise your dead ass out of bed at the crack of dawn to stand in a line in the elements outside your favorite record still for limited-edition vinyl delights. Record Store Day follows behind the blooming of Spring and like it the selections bursts with bounty. Or something. It’s good, really good.

The DIY movement that nearly single-handedly resuscitated the vinyl format is back on Saturday, April 21. New releases, obscure releases, re-releases, picture discs, colored discs, die-cut discs…it’s all there for a sometimes hefty price. But it’s cheaper than buying it later on ebay for 3-times the original price.

Here are a few choice Americana and Roots music nuggets from the list (found in its entirety here) Highlights include Bobbie Gentry’s Live at the BBC in its first official release, Johnny Cash’s 5oth Anniversary edition of his watershed release ‘ At Folsom Prison’ and Uncle Tupelo demos from their genre-defining ‘No Depression.’

So, get to your favorite indy record early on April 21nd (I’ll be at Good Records in Dallas) and share those great finds with me on Instagram and Twitter.

The Allman Brothers Band – ‘Live At The Atlanta Pop Festival, July 3 & 5, 1970’

DETAILS
Format: 4 x LP
Label: Legacy
Quantity: 3000
Release type: ‘RSD First’ Release

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The Allman Brothers Band was one of Georgia’s top live acts still looking for a break when they were hired to open the three-day Atlanta International Pop Festival. The band’s Southern-blues style, bolstered by jams that stretched to epic lengths, won over audiences–and two days later, after legends like Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Winter and B.B. King took the stage, the Allmans were invited back for a second set. Recorded nearly a year before At Fillmore East established them as one of America’s hottest bands, fans can now discover these landmark nights in Allman Brothers Band history with this individually numbered, limited edition box set, available on vinyl for the first time and packaged in an oversize slipcase with an eight page booklet of photos and liner notes.

7/3/70 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Statesboro Blues 1.3 Trouble No More 1.4 Don’t Keep Me Wonderin’ 1.5 Dreams 1.6 Every Hungry Woman 1.7 Hoochie Coochie Man 1.8 In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed 1.9 Whipping Post 1.10 Mountain Jam Part I 1.11 Rain Delay 1:14 1.12 Mountain Jam Part II 7/5/70 2.1 Introduction 2.2 Don’t Keep Me Wonderin’ 2.3 Statesboro Blues 2.4 In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed 2.5 Stormy Monday 2.6 Whipping Post 2.7 Mountain Jam

Dickey Betts – Dickey Betts Band: Live At The Lone Star Roadhouse

DETAILS
Format: 2 x LP
Label: RockBeat Records
Quantity: 1400
Release type: ‘RSD First’ Release
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Dickey Betts may not have had the name but he was a co-founder and the ongoing heart and soul of the Allman Brothers. With the deaths of Duane and then Gregg, Dickey slipped into semi-retirement. This show was recorded in August, 1978 with his back-up band, Great Southern, at the Lone Star Roadhouse in New York City and simulcast on WLIR on Long Island. Dickey Betts and Great Southern riffed on some of the Allman Bros. best known hits: “Blue Sky”, “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed”, “Jessica”, Statesboro Blues”, “One Way Out”, “Southbound” and other gems. Dickey is backed by Warren Haynes- guitar/vocals, Johnny Neel- keyboard/vocals, Matt Abts- percussion and Marty Privette- bass. Special appearances by Rick Derringer, Jack Bruce and Mick Taylor. It was just announced that Dickey was embarking on his first tour in some time, touring with his son Duane sharing lead guitar..

Disc 1: Blue Sky, In Memory of Elizabeth Reed, Duane’s Tune, Jessica
Disc 2: Statesboro Blues, One Way Out, Rock ‘n Roll Hoochie Coo, Spoonful, Southbound

Bobbie Gentry – Live at the BBC

DETAILS
Format: LP
Label: UMC
Quantity: 1200
Release type: ‘RSD First’ Release
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This LP is sure to be highly collectable for fans. No BBC material featuring Bobbie has ever been released (and only Ode to Billie Joe has leaked on YouTube as it featured in a BBC doc about songwriters) so these recordings are completely unfamiliar to fans.

Side 1: (1) “Mississippi Delta”, (2) “Papa Won’t Let Me Go To Town With You”, (3) “I saw An Angle Die”, (4) “Ode To Billie Joe”, (5) “Mornin Glory”, (6) “Ace Insurance Man”
Side 2: (1) “Niki Hokey/ Barefootin”, (2) “Penduli Pendulum”, (3) “Recollection”, (4) “Sweet Peony”, (5) “Greyhound Going Somewhere”

Johnny Cash – At Folsom Prison: 50th Anniversary Legacy Edition

DETAILS
Format: 5 x LP
Label: Legacy
Quantity: 2500
Release type: RSD Exclusive Release
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“Hello… I’m Johnny Cash.” With those four words, The Man In Black solidified his legend as outlaw country pioneer with two spirited sets recorded at Folsom State Prison in 1968 and released as At Folsom Prison, one of the most acclaimed live albums of all time. This special box set includes both full concerts, including performances by June Carter, Carl Perkins and The Statler Brothers. This numbered deluxe package, featuring individually designed LP jackets packaged in a deluxe hardshell slipcase with an eight page, 12″ x 12″ booklet, and also includes a bonus 12″ single featuring previously unreleased audio of Cash and friends rehearsing at the El Rancho Motel in Sacramento, CA the night before the concerts.

Steve Earle & The Dukes – Live From The Continental Club

DETAILS
Format: 2 x LP
Label: E-Squared
Quantity: 2000
Release type: RSD Exclusive Release
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Side 1 – 1. Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way 2. Guitar Town 3. Hillbilly Highway 4. My Olf Friend The Blues 5. Someday 6. The Devil’s Right Hand Side 2 – 1. Baby’s Just As Mean As Me 2. Dominic Stree/The Gallway Girl 3. Little Emperor 4. Aquainted With The Wind 5. Down THe Road Part II 6. Copperhead Road Side 3 – 1. So You Wanna Be An Outlaw 4. Looking For A Woman 3. Goobye Michaelangelo 4. Dim Lights , Thick Smoe (And Loud, Loud Music) 5. Amanda Side 4 – 1. Fixin To Die 2. Hey Joe 3. Johhny Come Lately 4. Wild Thing

Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives – Way Out West – Desert Suite (Trip One)

DETAILS
Format: 12″ Vinyl
Label: Superlatone Recordings
Quantity: 1200
Release type: RSD Exclusive Release
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(Trip One) is the first in a series of Desert Suite releases. Marty and His Fabulous Superlatives have reached back into the vault and let loose some of their favorite collaborations and B-Sides. Deseret Suite (Trip One) features guest appearances from Merle Haggard, Don “Juan” Maddox. It also features a never before released track called “Rattle and Roll” which is produced by Mike Campbell (Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers).

Side A: 1. The New Step It Up and Go (featuring Don Juan Maddox) / San Joaquin Boogie / TB Blues (featuring Merle Haggard) Side B: 1. Rattle and Roll

Uncle Tupelo – No Depression– Demos

DETAILS
Format: LP
Label: Legacy
Quantity: 3000
Release type: RSD Exclusive Release
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Released in 1990, Uncle Tupelo’s debut album No Depression was a genuine milestone in American rock and roll, a striking fusion of traditional folk and country with post-punk innovation and hardcore ferocity. For the first time on vinyl, fans can hear Jeff Tweedy, Jay Farrar and Mike Heidorn’s legendary demo tape Not Forever, Just For Now, recorded in 1989, plus a demo of “No Depression” recorded a year earlier.

Side A 1. Outdone [1989 Demo] 2. That Year [1989 Demo] 3. Whiskey Bottle [1989 Demo] 4. Flatness [1989 Demo] 5. I Got Drunk [1989 Demo]
Side B 1. Before I Break [1989 Demo] 2. Life Worth Living [1989 Demo] 3. Train [1989 Demo] 4. Graveyard Shift [1989 Demo] 5. Screen Door [1989 Demo] 6. No Depression [1988 Demo]

Hellbound Glory – Pinball (Junkie Edition)

DETAILS
Format: LP
Label: Black Country Rock
Quantity: 500
Release type: RSD Limited Run / Regional Focus Release
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A Record Store Day exclusive collector’s edition of the 2017 release, “Pinball [Junkie Edition]” features the entire album, and a very special version of a previous Hellbound hit, “Better Hope You Die Young”, performed by Tanya Tucker (feat. Leroy Virgil) and produced by Shooter Jennings. All on limited edition toxic green vinyl, with all-new artwork that continues the story from the first album cover. To top all of that off, the collector’s item will include a CD and download of everything, plus demos from they years that led to the pinnacle that is Hellbound Glory’s “Pinball”.

Side A. 1. ‘Merica (The Good Ole U.S.A.) 2. That’s Just What I Am 3. Six Strings Away 4. Vandalism Spree 5. Sun Valley Blues #3 (Bloodweiser) 6. Empty Bottles Sid B 7. Pinball 8. Delta Dawn 9. Hellbound Blues 10. You Better Hope You Die Young (featuring Tanya Tucker) 11. Blue Yodel Number 5 (California Blues) CD & DOWNLOAD CARD TRACKS 1. Hellbound Blues (Demo) 2. Empty Bottles (Demo) 3. Pinball (Demo) 4. Vandalism Spree (Demo) 5. Hellbound Blues (Hellbound AF Remix)

Mandolin Orange – Mandolin Orange Plays Cover Songs

DETAILS
Format: 12″ Vinyl
Label: Yep Roc Records
Quantity: 1400
Release type: ‘RSD First’ Release
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Mandolin Orange Plays Cover Songs is an EP of five classic covers reinterpreted by the Chapel Hill, North Carolina folk duo Mandolin Orange. Side A includes three traditional folk songs. Side B includes a cover of Gregory Alan Isakov’s “Amsterdam” and a cover of Bob Dylan’s “Boots of Spanish Leather”.

Side A: 1) Jordan is a Hard Road to Travel (Traditional) 2) Silver Dagger (Traditional) 3) Little Margaret (Traditional)
Side B: 1) Amsterdam (Gregory Alan Isakov cover) 2) Boots of Spanish Leather (Bob Dylan cover)

Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit – Live at Twist & Shout

DETAILS
Format: Vinyl
Label: New West Records
Quantity: 3000
Release type: ‘RSD First’ Release
MORE INFO
A six song EP recorded live at Twist & Shout in Denver, CO in 2007.

1 – Grown, 2 – Goddamn Lonely Love, 3 – Hurricanes And Hand Grenades, 4 – Danko/Manuel, 5 – Outfit, 6 – Into The Mystic

The Lone Bellow – Live at Grimey’s

DETAILS
Format: 10″ Vinyl
Label: Masterworks
Quantity: 2500
Release type: RSD Exclusive Release
MORE INFO
individually numbered, purple marble vinyl 10″ recorded live at Grimey’s New and Preloved Music in Nashville. This Record Store Day 2018 release includes two tracks from their latest album Walk Into A Storm and two never-before-recorded tracks: “Jessica” and “Lovely in Blue”

Side One: “May You Be Well” “Is It Ever Gonna Be Easy”
Side Two: “Jessica” “Lovely in Blue”

KHYI 100th Episode Contest – Wynonna & The Big Noise

Wynonna & The Big Noise

Seems like only yesterday I was introduced to the KHYI morning DJ Chuck Taylor at the 18th annual Texas Music Revolution at South Fork Ranch. Soon after he and general station manager Joshua Jones asked to do a casual morning segment featuring a song of my choice as well as live shows I’d recommend. Oh and happenings at this little blog and on my sundry social media.

Coming up on our 100th episode of our little segment, Twang Nation Radio, and I am here to tell you it’s been a great ride. We’ve celebrated extraordinary music, solemn moments for passing legends and celebrated the miracle that is Nashville hot chicken.

Chuck has become not just an associate and parter in sonic escapades but a friend. I’m in awe of his tireless commitment to sharing great music and making KHYI the preeminent roots music stations in North Texas, In short, he kicks ass.

Enough of the weepy bits and on to the swag!

Leave a memory of Twang Nation Radio, performers you’ve discovered, concerts you’ve found out about, times you wanted to punch me for bad-mouthing Sturgill Simpson, for a chance to win the latest awesome release from Wynonna & The Big Noise. Signed and on vinyl no less. REALLY!

One winner will be picked at random Sunday, April 24th, Wednesday, April 27th 2pm CST. THIS CONTEST IS INTENDED FOR LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ONLY.

Wynonna & The Big Noise is the rootsy release by Wynonna Judd and her cracker-jack band. Special guests include Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, Timothy B Schmit and Jason Isbell. It was produced by Wynonna’s hubby (and drummer) Cactus Moser, and includes songs written by the band, Julie Miller, Raphael Saadiq, John Scott Sherrill and Chris Stapleton.

Good luck, and thanks for listening/reading.

Hear John Paul White’s ‘Simple Song’ From Dave Cobb’s Upcoming ‘Southern Family’

Dave Cobb's 'Southern Family'

Grammy-nominee Dave Cobb mentioned during our interview that working with Shooter Jennings was the conduit to pitting him on the path of getting back in touch with his cultural roots and the music that draws from that rich soil. One body of work in particular was part of that reawakening. The Glyn Johns produced ‘White Mansions,’ a 1978 concept album spearheaded by Shooter’s dad Waylon featuring Jennings, Jessi Colter, John Dillon and Steve Cash ( Ozark Mountain Daredevils) and Eric Clapton played guitar on several tracks showed Cobb another side of country music/ As he put it “that’s the record that really got me. There’s something about the way it felt. It came at country in a very cinematic way, it’s very powerful.”

‘Southern Family’ is Cobb’s homage to that pivital album. ‘Southern Family’ is a compilation produced and conceived by the Producer of the Year Grammy-nominee and features many of his friends and collaborators – Jason Isbell, Zac Brown, Miranda Lambert, Morgane and Chris Stapleton, Jamey Johnson, Anderson East, Holly Williams, Brent Cobb, Brandy Clark, Shooter Jennings, Rich Robinson and John Paul White. Recorded in Nashville throughout the fall of 2015, the album features ten original songs and two covers including Morgane Stapleton with Chris Stapleton’s rendition of “You Are My Sunshine.” Out lining the textures that make up the Americana sound the songs rooted in country, blues, folk and rock.

Of his vision behind the project, Cobb comments, “Somebody said, ‘You should make a concept record,’ and I kind of giggled about it for a second. But, then I thought, man, wouldn’t it be amazing to have all my friends on one record and really find a common thread? Southern Family, about their mothers, grandparents, kids, siblings, these detailed stories about how they grew up and their families and the things that make them who they are.” He adds, “This really encapsulates Nashville right now. There’s something to it. There’s something in the air. There’s a lot of great things about Nashville. There’s something here that doesn’t exist anywhere else in my lifetime. I’m sure this happened in London in the ‘60s and California in the ‘70s and maybe New York in the late ’50s or early ‘60s. But I think, right now, Nashville is the home of music.”

Of his involvement in the project, John Paul White explains, “When Dave approached me about the project, I had a pretty large ‘Keep Out’ sign in my yard. He was in the Shoals working on Anderson East’s record, and came by to say hi. We’d never formally met. I told him I was a fan of his at the Americanas earlier, but that was the extent of our conversations. He eloquently laid out his master plan and sucked me right in. I was immediately intrigued by the framework, but was ultimately sold on it by his passion. I could tell that this album really meant something to him, and that meant something to me. I’m happy to say that it’s been a pleasure creating alongside Dave. I’m incredibly flattered and thankful to be involved with a project this unique, and with the caliber of musicians and artists that Dave has brought to the table.”

Dave Cobb—will be released March 18 on Low Country Sound/Elektra Records and is now available for pre-order (iTunes.)

Southern Family Track List
1. John Paul White “Simple Song”
2. Jason Isbell “God Is A Working Man”
3. Brent Cobb “Down Home”
4. Miranda Lambert “Sweet By and By”
5. Morgane Stapleton with Chris Stapleton “You Are My Sunshine”
6. Zac Brown “Grandma’s Garden”
7. Jamey Johnson “Momma’s Table”
8. Anderson East “Learning”
9. Holly Williams “Settle Down”
10. Brandy Clark “I Cried”
11. Shooter Jennings “Can You Come Over”?
12. Rich Robinson (featuring The Settles Connection) “The Way Home”

Hear John Paul White’s ‘Simple Song’ from ‘Southern Family’ below

Watch Out! Chris Stapleton: “Traveller” – David Letterman

Chris Stapleton: "Traveller" - David Letterman

Chris Stapleton has worked behind the scenes of Music Row for quite some time. He’s written hits for mainstream artists like Luke Bryan, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley. He’s also showed his melodic diversity by penning songs covered by Adele, Vince Gill and Sheryl Crow. He’s also up for Song of the Year at this Sunday’s Academy of Country Music Awards, for Luke Bryan’s “Drink a Beer.”

The man know his away around the craft to chart and to speak to the heart.

His first foray into the spotlight was as the lead singer and guitarist of the neo-bluegrass band The SteelDrivers from 2008–2010, where he was was nominated for three Grammy Awards as a member.

Chris Stapleton’s next act will be the release of his much anticipated debut “Traveler” (May 5th.) Not only will the album feature Stapleton’s tremendous talent but it will feature some of the best musicians going. If that weren’t enough for your hard earned dollar it’s notable that the album is produced by Dave Cobb, tha man at the boards for two recent stellar roots albums, Sturgill Simpson’s ‘Metamodern Sounds in Country Music’ and Jason Isbell’s ‘Southeastern.’

Last night, the singer-songwriter joined a long and prestigious list of country, Americana and roots musicins that have graced the stage of the Ed Sullivan Theater apperaing as a musical guest for the Late Show with David Letterman.

Stapleton performed the title song, wrapping his big Southern soul beautifully around his wife and collaborator Morgane’s accompaniment. Backed by a steady, smooth cadence by Derek Mixon on drums and JT Cure on bass, and, notably, the whining to and from of Robby Turner on pedal steel (To Letterman likening the the skill to flying a helicopter is probably not far off. )

It’s both sad and startling to hear this much soul and subtle beauty in country music.

Stapleton will open for Eric Church on April 30th in Boston. He will begin his solo tour tonight in Dallas and will perform at Good Records on April 18th for Record Store Day before continuing on tour.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YADQ6MhQuuU&feature=youtu.be

21 Performances To Catch at AmericanaFest 2014

The Hello Strangers perfrom at the Patterson Theatre in Baltimore

If you’re a fan of roots music there is only one place to be in the fall, and that’s Americanafest. The Americana Music Association will be presiding over this 15th Festival – along with its Conference and Awards Ceremony – in Nashville, September 16-21.

This is the premier industry event celebrating the music we love. Thousands of artists, fans and industry folks from all over the world will gather to talk biz, eat BBQ, drink local beer and, yes, hear the best music on the planet.

then get up the next morning and do it all over again (pace yourself, drink water!)

This year the increased the number of acts has grown to 160 (!) performing across 11 venues (!!) This might have given me more awesome choices, but I’ve yet to figure oy t that whole cloning myself thing. This makes seeing many performances, many happening at the same time, an impossibility.

But the upside is no matter where you find yourself you’re in for some of the best music going.

Over the years of attending this extraordinary event I’ve tried to dig deep in the bill and look for hidden gems that might I might miss on my initial scan. Some newer or more obscure performers are the ones that can often leave an impression and have fans talking for days after.

Though I like to see the big names as much as anybody, There are a few names that fly a little lower under the radar but will be well worth making time for.

See the full lineup here.

Caroline Rose – The Basement – Tuesday September 16, 2014 7:00pm – 7:45pm

Caroline Rose just came across my ADD addled mind and I’m better for it. Pop folk never sounded so fresh and vibrant.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4cAnRTrKD0

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John Moreland – High Watt – Wednesday, September 17, 2014 11:00pm – 11:45pm

There’s nothing fancy about a John Moreland performance. He sits alone, mostly with an acoustic guitar spinning rich tales of the human landscape. His sparse, concise yet elegant style has him counting Lucero and Jason Isbell as fans and having his songs showcased on the biker drama, Sons of Anarchy

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Hannah Aldridge – Fanny’s House of Music “Americana Ladies Night Line-Up” – Thursday September 18, 2014 5:30pm – 8:30pm

A voice of the ages that can be heard from two blocks over (unmiced) Aldridge beings the goods and more on her sterling debut “Razorwire.”

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Banditos – The Rutledge – Thursday September 18, 2014 9:00pm – 9:45pm

This Nashville-by-way-of Birmingham band is a potent blend of rock, country and soul that draws on many influences and squeezes greatness from every drop. Some of the tunes might seem “jammy” but they always right themselves and head straight for solid framework.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKzxzvyc35M

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Zoe Muth РListening Room Caf̩ РThursday September 18, 2014 10:00pm Р10:45pm

Zoe Muth’s sweetly plantive voice sings songs of hardscrabble love and life that can tear out your heart or rock your soul, often at the same time.

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Shinyribs – High Watt – Wednesday September 17, 2014 10:00pm – 10:45pm

Shinyribs is the pseudonym of The Gourds mastermind of madness Kevin Russell. Tightly arranged tunes, spiked with a heavy dose of whimsy, shows Russell reflecting a stew of influences from Bob Wills to the Texas Tornadoes.

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Jonny Two Bags – The Basement – Wednesday, September 17, 2014 11:00pm – 11:45pm

Sometimes punk rockers age and cross over to Americana. Sometimes their original band has always had a foot in the dusty road. The latter is the case for Jonny Two Bags. As the guitarist for the SoCal institution Social Distortion, Jonny Two Bags didn’t have to travel far to pull out his

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Whiskey Shivers – Station Inn – Thursday September 18, 2014 9:00pm – 9:45pm

Newgrass? Naw, how bout thrashgrass. Whiskey Shivers heats up the already hot genre by pulling in an audience and making a performance a communal celebration that will have you to leaving your troubles at the door. They’ve even caught the ear of fellow Texas genre-hopper Robert Ellis who has produced their upcoming self-titled album.

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Otis Gibbs – Station Inn – Thursday, September 18, 2014 10:00pm – 10:45pm

Otis Gibbs is what a musician looks like that refuses to compromise. His songs are instantly relatable and yet poetic.The man effortlessly exudes that ever elusive quality of authenticity.

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Hello Strangers – Two Old Hippies – Friday, September 19 6:00 PM – 7:00pm

Sisters Larissa Chace Smith and Brechyn Chace hail from the foot of the Appalachian mountains, due north of the Mason-Dixon Line , in Mercersburg, PA. They ended up in Austin where they worked their craft in the rich music scene helped hone their harmony-rich folk and roots rock spirit.

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Jonah Tolchin – Third Man – Friday, September 19, 2014 9:00pm – 9:45pm

Jonah Tolchin’s voice belies his years on earth. His neo-soul roots style transports you and breathes life into the past.

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Marah – The Basement – Friday, September 19, 2014 9:00pm – 9:45pm

Marah are one of my favorite rocks bands, all ramshackle and passion fueled recklessness. Thier newest roots music production, ‘Mountain Minstrelsy of Pennsylvania’ takes all that’s great with the band and runs it through a copper wire od dark mountain folk.

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Cale Tyson РListening Room Caf̩ РFriday, September 19 Р10:00pm Р10:45pm

Nashville by way of Texas classic country and Townes Van Zandt influenced Cale Tyson’s musical path. Tyson’s latest EP, “High On Lonesome” reflects that legacy with hints of Gram Parsons, Guy Clark and Willie Nelson.

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Jamestown Revival – Mercy Lounge – Friday, September 19, 2014 10:00pm – 10:45pm

After seeing Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance, Jamestown Revival, at an LA Americana event honoring the Everly Brothers I was hooked. They arguably stole the show that night. This was a show that included Rodney Crowell and Bonnie Raitt get there early. JR might be somewhat off the radar but their popularity is growing.

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Cory Branan – High Watt – Friday, September 19, 2014 10:00pm – 10:45pm
Sharp songwriting and an aversion of the lazy trope has made Chuck Ragan and Lucero into fans of Cory Branan. Come see what all the fuss is about.


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Grace and Tony – Station Inn – Saturday September 20, 2014 8:00pm – 8:45pm

Grace and Tony come from a bluegrass and punk rock background respectively. Not just joining in matrimony they fused a hybrid style they describe as Punkgrass. Colliding the worlds of Charlie Poole and The Clash might have been a disaster for some, but they make it work thanks to a love of craft many of live performances in front of adoring fans.

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Lera Lynn – High Watt – Saturday September 20, 2014 9:00pm – 9:45pm

Texas-born Lera Lynn has a hard one to characterize. A little Dusty , a dash of Loretta, leads to a quality to her that make her rock-roots/soul style irresistible.

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Jason Eady – Mercy Lounge – Saturday, September 20, 2014 10:00pm – 10:45pm

Jason Eady’s is the odd man out here. He’s not Americana, he’s country..or at least he’s what country used to be , before it became Americana. Damn it just go see him!

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David Ramirez – The Rutledge – Saturday September 20, 2014 10:00pm – 10:45pm

Austin’s David Ramirez is the textbook definition of a troubadour. A songwriter hammering out hard tales with a guitar and a song. His extensive touring has gained him fans from coast to coast.

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Carolina Story РListening Room Caf̩ РSaturday September 20, 2014 12:00am Р12:45am

With the official demise of the Civil Wars I invite you to turn your wistfully romantic ears toward husband and wife dup Carolina Story (Ben and Emily Roberts.) Though they can get a little more country (read twang) than TCW the Arkansas couple can also plumb the depths of a forlorn soul.

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Joe Fletcher & the Wrong Reasons – The Basement – Sunday September 21, 2014 12:00am – 12:45am

Joe Fletcher’s solo debut ‘You’ve Got the Wrong Man,’ populated with soldiers, scammers, hangers-on, hellraisers, boozers and the woe-begone. Comparisons to Tom Waits would not be far off.

http://vimeo.com/98921881

Americana Music Association Releases First Half of 15th Annual AmericanaFest Bill

Americanafest

The Americana Music Association continues its tradition of showcasing some of the best in Americana and roots music by it’s partial roster of Americanfest performers released today.

Though the lineup doesn’t show any groundbreaking direction, I’m fine with that. There are lots of folks on the list that have been busting their hump for years and deserve this recognition rather then inserting acts to placate outsider accusations of one thing or another. Personally I’m happy to see Casa Twang favorites Howlin’ Brothers, Jamestown Revival, John Moreland, Lera Lynn, Marah and Ben Miller Band on the bill. And Texas is well-represented by Billy Joe Shaver, Sarah Jarosz, Jason Eady and Hayes Carll

The event is celebrating its 15th as the premier Americana event by welcoming 160 performers taking the stage at 11 venues including 3rd & Lindsley, The Basement, City Winery, High Watt, Cannery, Mercy Lounge, The Rutledge, Station Inn, Music City Roots, Downtown Presbyterian Church and Musicians Corner.

Three-time Americana Group of the Year, The Avett Brothers, will headline the event at Riverfront Parl on Saturday Sept. 20. Americana’s Music Festival & Conference registrations will have access. Tickets for the general public will go on sale Friday, June 27 at 10AMat www.ticketfly.com.

Check out THE Americanafest 2014 Spotify playlist.

The first half of Americanafest’s performing artist list includes:

Allison Moorer
Amy Ray
Angaleena Presley
The Avett Brothers
The Barefoot Movement
Ben Miller Band
Billy Joe Shaver
Black Prairie
Brennen Leigh and Noel McKay
Buddy Miller
The Cactus Blossoms
Carlene Carter
Caroline Rose
Chatham County Line
Chuck Mead
Danny & The Champions of the World
The Deadly Gentleman
Del Barber
The Deslondes
Doug Seegers
The Duhks
The Dustbowl Revival
Emily Barker & the Red Clay Halo
Ethan Johns
The Fairfield Four
The Grahams
Grant-Lee Phillips
Green River Ordinance
Greensky Bluegrass
Gregory Alan Isakov
Greyhounds
The Harpoonist & the Axe Murderer
Hayes Carll
Howlin’ Brothers
Immigrant Union
Israel Nash
Jamestown Revival
Jason Eady
JD Wilkes & the Dirt Daubers
Joe Henry
Joe Pug
Joe Purdy
John Moreland
Jonah Tolchin
Jonny Two Bags
Josh Ritter
Joshua James
Lake Street Dive
Lee Ann Womack
Leo Welch
Lera Lynn
Marah Presents: Mountain Minstrelsy
Marty Stuart
Matthew Ryan
McCrary Sisters
Nathaniel Rateliff
New Country Rehab
Oh Susanna
Otis Gibbs
Parker Millsap
Paul Thorn
Pete Molinari
Quebe Sisters Band
Rhett Miller
Robbie Fulks
Robyn Hitchcock
Rodney Crowell
Ruthie Foster
Ryan Montbleau
Sam Outlaw
Sarah Jarosz
Sean Rowe
Shakey Graves
Suzy Bogguss
Todd Snider & Friends
Tom Freund
Tony Joe White
Trigger Hippy (feat. Jackie Greene, Joan Osbourne, Steve Gorman, Tom Bukovac & Nick Govrik)
Whiskey Shivers
Willie Watson

The 15th annual Americana Music Festival & Conference occurs September 17-21, 2014 in Nashville, Tenn. The 13th annual Americana Honors & Awards Show on Sept. 17 at the historic Ryman Auditorium.

Music Review: Sturgill Simpson – “Metamodern Sounds in Country Music” – High Top Mountain Records

sturgill-simpson-metamodern

On his 1962 masterpiece “Modern Sounds in Country Music” Ray Charles’ broke cultural and racial boundaries, straddled styles, grew his audience and made the charts.

Sturgill Simpson’s newest release tips a hat to that release but “Metamodern Sounds in Country Music” but it doesn’t break any boundaries that weren’t broke decade ago.

Simpson does fight against the current thinking that what’s old is bad. This is not new. Gram Parson’s did it in the 60’s and 70’s and the entire Americana genre is built on that premise. But just as Charles’ classic engaged country music as a lens to take a broader cultural view Simpson uses 70’s country gold as a review mirror to remind us what cultural beauty we’ve squandered.

Music City has always raced towards the shiniest object to gain market share and fill pockets. It’s charter is not historic preservation but cash accumulation. But that history is rich and fertile ground in the mind of Simpson, a mindful disciple that spans history and style with authenticity and a crooked smile.

That richness can be heard, and felt, in the songwriting.

The record opens as an old-timer, billed as “Dood” Fraley, announces the title album and then echoes off into infinite space.

Sunny psychedelic “Turtles All The Way Down” opens with a “Gentle On My Mind” feel with a twist “I’ve seen Jesus play with flames in a lake a fire that I was sanding in” “There’s a gateway in our mind that leads somewhere out there beyond this plane / Where reptile aliens made of light cut you open and pull out all your pain.”

“Tear in my Beer” this ain’t.

Drug use and mind expansion is not new in country music. Way before Willie and Snoop sang “Roll Me Up and Smoke When I Die.” and Kacey Musgraves , Ashley Monroe and Brandy Clark hitched a ride on the current weed bandwagon Kris Kristofferson was smoking his mind in “Sunday Morning Coming Down” (which Simpson references in “Life of Sin”) and Johnny Cash went on a murderous jag in “Cocaine Blues.”

But Simpson reflects a humanity in the mind alterations that grounds it and makes it relatable to even the straightest arrow.

Humanity is often dark, and “Life of Sin” takes a page from the book of Bakersfield and tells a leavin’ tale taht leads to drinkin’ and debauchery that raves like an prairie dust storm.

“Living the Dream” is a laid-back, Waylon-tinged cold reality lament of the futility of performing as you contemplate futility and “sit around and wait to die.”

“Long White Line” is a love song to the open road as a path away from hurt. “The Promise” is the most poignant track on the album. Simpson conjures loneliness and yearning in his softly, almost spoken, delivery as plucked guitar, drums, bass and stings build.

As you can guess this is not the feel good album of the summer. it engage human themes once prevalent in country music, misery. But not in th meost recent emo vairty of the emotion. this is misery as enlightenment. Angst as discovery.

“It Ain’t all Flowers” is a flashback kick in the teeth with “Are You Experienced”-style backtracking before giving way to a slow groover that slithers and seethes Southern sou.

Simpson’s voice is an expressive instrument in itself as if pleads and growls keening into hard-edge shapes and the occasional howl “oooHooooooo!” The band is on par with the level of excellence you’d expect from a Sturgill Simpson release. Kevin Black on bass guitar, Miles Miller on drums/percussion and backing vocal, Mike Webb on keyboards and
Dave Cobb plays. classical guitar/percussion. The stand out is Laur Joamets from Tartu, Estonia ranks up there with the finest interpreters of teh guitar I’ve had th honer of hearing.

Simpson doesn’t care to be country music’s savior but he’s willing to interpret it to make some damn fine new music an d fans are coming in droves. There’s a hunger for it.
Is “Metamodern Sounds in Country Music” groundbreaking? No.and it doesn’t need to be. It just remind us there still some gold in that there High Top Mountain

Official site

five_rate

Shovels & Rope To Release Sophomore Album “Swimmin’ Time” August 26

Shovels and Rope - Swimmin Time

Great news Twangers. The pride of Charleston, South Carolina, Shovels & Rope (Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent) release their sophomore album Swimmin’ Time (Dualtone Music) on August 26.

Swimmin’ Time is the highly-anticipated follow up to the band’s 2012 breakthrough debut O’ Be Joyful, which garnered unanimous praise from the press, followed on the heels by dozens of sold out shows, national television appearances, numerous year-end lists (including mine) booming album sales and major festival performances like Newport Folk, Lollapalooza and Sasquatch. Topping at all off the band also took home two of the top honors, Song of the Year (“Birmingham”) and Emerging Artist of the Year at the 2013 Americana Music Awards.

They should have been nominated for a GRAMMY as well, but I digress….

Whereas a good deal of O’ Be Joyful was recorded on the road when time allowed, Swimmin’ Time was done at their home studio in Charleston, SC. Trent again producing. Swimmin’ Time features 13 new songs that “that maintain the elemental Shovels & Rope songwriting and sound while incorporating new ingredients to the mix. From the heady harmonies of “The Devil Is All Around” and the quirky “Mary Ann & One-Eyed Dan” to the epic beauty of “After The Storm” and the Waits-ian “Ohio” fans are sure to be pleased and pleasantly surprised by some of the chosen new paths and dark turns.”

Sounds cool. No?

Here’s a song that the band is doing on the road that will be on Swimmin’ Time

Jason Isbell Books 2014 Dates + 2 Ryman Shows

JasonIsbellBWbyMichaelWilson

Jason Isbell is at the top of his career and he’s headed all over this great nation (except Dallas!) Isbell is headed to the second leg of his tour to support his acclaimed “Southeastern.”

Isbell will kick off in Auckland, New Zealand on April 12th followed by Sydney Australia and a few more dates down under before hitting the states on April 25th in New Orleans to perform at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

And if that’s not enough (and it is) Isbell has some great openers. Tift Merritt, Holly Williams, Langhorne Slim, Amanda Shires and St. Paul & The Broken Bones.

5/27 – 5/28, 5/30 – 6/4, 6/7 Isbell supports Ray Lamontagne.
6/13 he co-headlines with James McMurtry and on 7/6 – 7/18 he supports Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss & Union Station (what?! no Willies Picnic?)

The tour ends back at the stop he played to a sold-out crowd last August, the historic Ryman Auditorium. This time for two nights, Friday, October 24, and Saturday, October 25. Smart money says both nights sell out so get ’em while you can.

A special fan pre-sale will launch at 10 a.m. CDT on Wednesday, April 9, and run until 10 p.m. CDT, Thursday, April 10.

Isbell and the 400 Unit your dates. Keep an eye on his official site for more dates and news.

Sat-Apr-12 Auckland, NZ Tuning Fork
Sun-Apr-13 Sydney, NSW The Factory
Wed-Apr-16 Melbourne, VIC Northcote Social Club *SOLD OUT*
Thu-Apr-17 Melbourne, VIC Northcote Social Club *SOLD OUT*
Fri-Apr-18 Tallarook, VIC Boogie Festival
Sat-Apr-19 Meeniyan, VIC Meeniyan Town Hall
Mon-Apr-21 Tyagarah, NSW Byron Bay Bluesfest
Fri-Apr-25 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
Sat-Apr-26 Indio, CA Stagecoach Festival * SOLD OUT*
Mon-Apr-28 Los Angeles, CA The Roxy *SOLD OUT*
Tue-Apr-29 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore *SOLD OUT*
Wed-Apr-30 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore
Sun-May-04 Memphis, TN Beale Street Music Festival
Wed-May-07 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL Live at The Lot @ The Player’s Championship
Fri-May-09 Birmingham, AL Alabama Theatre
Sat-May-10 Huntsville, AL Mark C. Smith Concert Hall at the Von Braun Center
Sun-May-11 Atlanta, GA Shaky Knees Music Festival
Tue-May-27 Portland, ME Cumberland County Civic Center
Wed-May-28 Shelburne, VT The Green at Shelburne Museum
Thu-May-29 Nelsonville, OH Nelsonville Music Festival
Fri-May-30 Boston, MA Blue Hills Bank Pavillion
Sat-May-31 Boston, MA Blue Hills Bank Pavillion
Sun-Jun-01 Canandaigua, NY Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center
Tue-Jun-03 Wallingford, CT Toyota Presents Oakdale
Wed-Jun-04 Columbia, MD Merriweather Post Pavillion
Fri-Jun-06 New York, NY The Governor’s Ball Music Festival
Sat-Jun-07 Camden, NJ Susquehanna Bank Center
Fri-Jun-13 Madison, WI THE KURT Music Event at The Majestic
Fri-Jun-20 Telluride, CO Telluride Bluegrass
Sun-Jul-06 Kansas City, MO Starlight Theater
Mon-Jul-07 Rogers, AR Arkansas Music Pavilion
Wed-Jul-09 Oklahoma City, OK Zoo Amphitheatre
Fri-Jul-11 Council Bluffs, IA Harrah’s Stir Cove
Sat-Jul-12 Chicago, IL Ravinia Festival
Sun-Jul-13 Detroit, MI Freedom Hill
Thu-Jul-17 Interlochen, MI Kresge Auditorium
Fri-Jul-18 Toledo, OH Toledo Zoo Amphitheater
Sat-Jul-19 Louisville, KY Forecastle Festival
Fri-Jul-25 White Sulphur Springs, MT Red Ants Pants Music Festival
Sat-Jul-26 Calgary, AB Calgary Folk Festival
Sun-Jul-27 Edmonton, AB Interstellar Rodeo
Thu-Jul-31 Bayfield, WI Big Top Chautauqua
Fri-Oct-24 Nashville, TN The Ryman Auditorium
Sat-Oct-25 Nashville, TN The Ryman Auditorium

4/12-4/17, 4/19 Tift Merritt Supports
4/28 – 4/30 Holly Williams supports
5/9 Langhorne Slim & The Law supports
5/27 – 5/28, 5/30 – 6/4, 6/7 supporting Ray Lamontagne, Belle Brigade opens
6/13 co-headline with James McMurtry
7/6 – 7/18 supporting Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss & Union Station
10/24 Amanda Shires supports
10/25 St. Paul & The Broken Bones support