ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER TIME: INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS MUSIC IS INCREDIBLE

I was fortunate to catch a special running on Showtime this weekend about the Coen Brother's new movie "Inside Llewyn Davis", along with a concert "Another Day, Another Time", promoting the artists and music within the movie.
The movie is "loosely" based upon folk singer Dave Von Ronk, and the music scene in late 1961 in New York just before Bob Dylan hit the stage. Per music director T Bone Burnett, the lead character in the movie is not solely based on Von Ronk, but a compiliation of many similar artists at the time.
The Coen Brothers did a great job finding lead actor Oscar Isacc. I was immediately drawn to him when I heard his rendition of the classic "Hang Me Oh Hang Me". Isaac's soulful voice and finger picking guitar are a perfect combination.
The artists performing here are a vast list of great musicians including Marcus Mumford, The Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile, and even Justin Timberlake continues to impress with his durability performing well here.
The concert also features Dave Rawlings and Gillian Welch, The Avett Brothers, Jack White, Patti Smith, Rhiannon Giddens, The Milk Carton Kids, and Lake Street Dive. Each did a great job, hopefully introducing many to how beautiful the purity of music can be without techno enhancements.
One quote from the movie I loved...and it is the last words as the concert footage ends..."If it isn't new...if it isn't old...then it must be folk". Count me among the folk music lovers. Check this movie and concert out if possible.

ODD THINGS TO HAVE CAME OUT OF GARTH'S BIG SHOW

OK...sadly I must admit..I was among those left with nothing better to do the other night than to turn on the Garth Brooks live Vegas show. It was much like a car wreck..you know the kind where you try not to look..but you can not help but stare at it? While you can not dispute Garth has talent as an entertainer...I have been hit and miss on his musical career...and never quite got over the fact he flat out stole Todd Snider's cult classic "Beer Run" without even asking or paying a penny.
Anyway, Garth tried to take us on a trip down through his musical roots. I thought this might be interesting...just to see what he had to say about the entire Chris Gaines appearance. Funny....that was not mentioned at all.
The odd thing was another thing he did not mention at all as well. Of course, I could have missed it...or it was cut on the live broadcast...but there was no mention of Chris Ledoux. Not much attention is given to Ledoux, and I thought that was one thing Brooks had done well in the past...and would once again here.
One other thing...I hate it when a musician decides to turn his hits into short compilations...and then allows the audience to sing most of the song without him. Hey, you want to hear the musician play the song...sing the song...not part of it and move on..but all of it...and hopefully by himself and on key!

GRASCALS NEW RELEASE WORTHWHILE

I have been guilty of not being on the Grascals bandwagon in the past. While I enjoy the raw talent they possess, I have often criticized their latest releases as being to clean or over-produced for bluegrass music.
What I enjoy about bluegrass is the energy. It is pure...driven from the instrumentals or vocal harmonies...and include lyrics that I can relate to in every day life. The Grascals have been pushed to the top of the bluegrass charts for a few years now, and get the most recognition. This is perhaps why I have not been fully behind them...there are so many other similarly talented bluegrass groups and musicians out there that never receive half the recognition a Grascals release does.
With their latest release titled "When I Get My Pay", they still have a few songs that shine a bit too brightly...the "American Pickers" song with guest Dierks Bentley perhaps leads this group...but there are a few songs here that deserve to be heard by any bluegrass fan.
The title cut which leads off the record is a good one. Most people can relate to the troubles of being broke come pay day...and the harmonies here are tight. With Kristen Scott Benson driving the beat on banjo throughout the record, there are some toe tappers that will have you playing this one again and again.
What perhaps stands out to me as the best song on the record, is the poignant "Silver Strands", written by Sharon Higgins, Billy Smith, and Terry Smith, who of course plays base and sings harmony for the Grascals. This touching song resonates within me...and I am sure you will enjoy it. Jamie Johnson and Terry Eldridge do a great job with the vocals, and Danny Roberts mandolin along with Jeremy Abshire on fiddle make this one a keeper.

BOTTLE ROCKETS CD SET YOU TRULY NEED

Bloodshot Records is releasing a great music package on November 19th that any true music lover will enjoy. The Bottle Rockets hit the music scene in the early 90's. Their style was unlike any other, and soon garnered a large following mostly by word of mouth...and other artists who knew a good thing when they heard it. This deluxe two CD set containing digitally remastered and expanded editions of the Roots Rock band's seminal releases The Bottle Rockers (1993) and The Brooklyn Side (1995). The package includes 19 previously unreleased tracks from the era these original recordings were made, along with an exhaustive 40 page booklet detailing the band and the scene, at the time. Both albums (including all 19 bonus tracks) have been painstakingly remastered by famed producer and musician Eric "Roscoe" Ambel.
This is a vast collection of music that needs to be heard. Brian Henneman's versions of "Indianapolis" and "Thousand Dollar Car" have long been among my favorites. With this release you get acoustic and full band versions of select songs...which allows you to dig deeper and hear the true roots of this legendary music.
The Bottle Rockets have been compared to ground breaking alt-country groups such as Uncle Tupelo, Whiskeytown, or Drive By Truckers. However, I truly feel that comparison falls short of what the Bottle Rockets accomplished during these times. Their music had much more depth, diversity, and true life within it.
You get it all here...from acoustic...to alt-country...to even a Jim Morrison/Jimmi Hendrix/The Doors full out blitz. Attempting to fully review such a release here is unfair. This is a plethora music that deserves to stand on its own and be heard...and enjoyed. Trust me...you will fully.

HAVE OUR MUSIC OPTIONS CHANGED FOREVER?

With the growth of such internet options as Spotify, have our options on choices of ownership in music changed? ITunes also is yet another of these ventures which offer music on line, without anything physical to touch such as a CD or record. Will my cd collection become much like the 8 track tapes of the past..useless?
I have yet to enter the 21st Century on many levels. In fact, I could say I am holding onto the 40's,50's,and 60's fairly hard by trying to increase my vinyl record collection. However, even today when I find new music I wish to purchase, I think CD...not download. I want to read the liner notes...see who wrote the songs I enjoy. I have found so many new artists through the years by doing just that...seeing who wrote the song and doing some research to find more from them. With the age of downloads, where does this research become possible? Will the songwriter live anonomously? That irritates me...for it is the writer who deserves much praise in my opinion.
So...I am curious...am I the only one? How have you managed to adjust? What avenues do you use today and enjoy most? I need help...and hope to hear from others on this subject.

CMA AWARD SHOW ALWAYS "INTERESTING"

I must admit, I try to watch the CMA Award show each year just to see what they are passing off as "country music" today. I honestly never listen to public radio, only hear an occasional song while passing through a store or friends house. So, the CMA's allow me to catch up...and normally laugh at what they are awarding these days in Nashville.
Last night was not disappointing, although I must admit I was pleasantly surprised with George Strait winning the Entertainer Award, plus the good rendition of "He Stopped Loving Her Today" by Strait and Alan Jackson in honor of George Jones.
The musical performances were hit and miss for me, enjoying the Kasey Musgraves song perhaps best. While I also enjoyed The Zac Brown performance with Dave Grohl, it was far from what I would call country music, but very entertaining. Also must give a nod to Jason Aldeans performance as well, it was tolerable. As for the Eric Church song...well...lets just say I see why he was fired as an opening act for going too long. The poignant moment with Luke Bryan seemed a bit forced and disingenuous to me.
Finally, there were three "uncomfortable" moments which I must address. The Taylor Swift/Alison Krauss/Vince Gill/Sam Bush acoustic version of "Red" was embarrassing. The vocals for Krauss and Gill were not even audible...wonder if this was intentional so you could not compare Swift's vocals with the talented duo. Speaking of duos, the matching of Keith Urban and Miranda Lambert was not good. While each has talent, they do not mesh at all. Then there was the train wreck with Hunter Hayes and Jason Mraz. I was surprised to see Mraz, his talents are exceptional but not country. Same could be said of Hayes...but leave out the "talent" part. He was so far off key it hurt. Even Mraz could not wait for it to be over.
Once again, I watch these shows...see who is awarded for what...shake my head...and say "These people could not hold a candle to the talents of Chris Knight". Then I close my eyes and see the image of Charlie Rich burning the award announcement of John Denver many years ago as Entertainer of the Year...and say "Charlie, wish you were here to burn a few more".

NORAH JONES-BILLY JOE ARMSTRONG FROM GREEN DAY COVER THE EVERLY BROTHERS

From our friends over at Americana Songwriters, comes this great clip from a November 25th release by Norah Jones and Billy Joe Armstrong from Green Day. At first , this may sound like an odd pairing, but give this a listen and see what you think.
To me, the sound is great..the mix is done exceptionally well...and they remained true to the song itself...which is always important when covering a classic.

So here it is...this release could be a good one.

http://www.americansongwriter.com/2013/10/track-review-billie-joe-armstrong-norah-jones-long-time-gone/

LIVE MUSIC UNLIKE ANY OTHER

My wife and I were blessed on Saturday evening...truly. We made the two hour trip from our home down to Louisville, Kentucky to witness what has to be one of the best live performances I have seen...ever. Tim O'Brien and Darrell Scott laid out 2 sets of music that was vibrant, energetic, and inspiring. These two will leave you shaking your heads at the immense talent they possess and show.
The Clifton Center is a great place to enjoy a show. It is a small auditorium that seats perhaps 300 people I am guessing...with 15 rows of seats on the main level and a small balcony area with 4-5 rows of seats. So, there is honestly not a bad seat in the house, plus you are extremely close to the stage.
The night began with even another great surprise. Old Man Luedecke, a two person acoustic band opened with some exceptional music. Chris Luedecke, the lead singer/banjo player opened the night with his own unique style of folk music. His vocals were exceptionally crisp, and the songs were sometimes humorous, but always very entertaining. I was not familiar with his music until this evening, but left with a couple of CD's...a hearty smile...hand shake...and another talented musician to check out further and follow for sure. Sometimes you hope the opening act is done soon, so you can see who you really wanted to...but that was not the case here. With each song, Luedecke was gaining an attentive audience, along with more fans.
Then came the main course. Tim O'Brien and Darrell Scott walked out upon the stage, each wearing small black hats...which we later learned were in honor of John Hartford. With only the two on the stage, and a line of string instruments behind them, you knew this would be special...but I honestly was not prepared for what I witnessed.
Tim O'Brien is a beast as a musician. He can play the banjo, mandolin, violin, or guitar equally well. His picking and finger work are enough to make the regular picker such as you or me want to either give up completely since we will never sound like that...or drive yourself crazy trying to even get close. He would pick up an instrument with each song and play so effortlessly but the sounds that he made were incredible.
When you add in his vocals, as well as the powerful vocals as well from Darrell Scott, who also can pick a guitar exceptionally well, you have quite a combination. Now throw in the fact the two are brilliant song writers also, and you get music that is so unique, it is breath taking.
The harmonies that each would add into the songs were incredible. You would think the two of them have performed together for decades...the each blend and enhance the other so well.
The acapella version of "House of Gold" brought the audience to its feet halfway through the show. It was inspiring how these two could compliment each other and pour their hearts and souls into their music.
I may never see another show in my lifetime as moving as this one. Tim O'Brien and Darrell Scott are simply an amazing combination that is second to none.

DARRELL SCOTT AND TIM OBRIEN DO IT AGAIN!

Sometimes music can touch a person...strike them in the heart...sweep through their mind like a cool breeze in July...refreshing their hope that there is something to look forward to tomorrow. The latest release by Darrell Scott and Tim O'Brien titled "Memories and Moments" does exactly this and more.
I first became aware of this talented duo through there live record released a few years ago. I was of course familiar with each artist and their talents on their own, but was stunned by the tremendous harmonies I heard streaming from the speakers as I listened to this record. Of course I immediately searched for more...and found their original gem "Real Time", which has become a cult classic through the years.
On their new release, this duo keeps the same vibe going...lets have fun and play some REAL music. No reason to shoot for the moon...try to get things perfect... or mix in some new sound. Simply allow the music to flow openly and freely. Mission accomplished!!
This one has so many highlights, it would be much easier to just say buy it and thank me later. From the opening song "Time To Talk With Joseph", you realize that this is something unique and special. The tongue on cheek "Keep Your Dirty Lights On", describing the true impact the coal industry has on the liberal green movement, will captivate you.
When I first seen the list of songs on this record, I was immediately drawn to one of my favorites..."Paradise" by John Prine. I have always loved this song....like playing it..singing it...and hearing how others attempt to capture the essence of the song themselves. Imagine my surprise when I first listened to it here and heard none other than Prine himself singing the first stanza. They continue the song allowing each to sing a portion...then ending with Prine. Loved it.
I was so moved by their music, that I searched out a way to catch them live together on tour. That show is coming Saturday the 19th in Louisville, Kentucky. Looking forward to this very much.
If you love music...harmonies...good writing...get this one.

HANK III - YET ANOTHER STEP BACK?

Hank Williams III releases his new double CD this week. To be honest, I could not bring myself to purchase it after listening to a few songs, and researching some of the material.
While it may not be fair to pass judgement without listening to the entire record, there is a track record here and past history suggesting this is yet another step back in what should be a solid music career.
I had the great opportunity to interview Hank III about 5 years ago. He was very gracious, spoke openly and candidly about his music, his fight with his label, and wanting to control his music. Well, this is his second release since gaining that control, and to be honest I am disappointed.
I would like to make one thing quite clear...ANY music Hank III puts out is FAR AND BEYOND better than 95% of what comes out of Nashville today. It is real music...it does show his immense talent and fire to keep his music pure...yet the problem here is you know he can do so much better.
The songs on his new release stretch the realm of the listener due to the length of the songs, varying anywhere from 5 to 9 minutes in length. Within these songs lie the man and his great music...it is just the battle wading through the other carnage at times to find it that is the issue.
This is not a slam to Hank III or his music. As I said, the man has talent far and beyond the typical Nashville joke. Plus, you can not fault a man for carving out his own trail. After all, it is his music, he can certainly do whatever he wants with it. I only wish he finds peace within himself...a happiness that he realizes his music can stand alone...and sit down with his guitar...a mic...and record it. Just the man..a guitar...and a voice. Simple and pure. It would be something amazing.

OPEN MESSAGE TO TODD SNIDER - WE NEED YOU

I have been fortunate enough to meet...speak with...and enjoy many of my favorite artists over the years. None has meant more to me personally than Todd Snider. Todd is unique, he has the keen ability to speak to others with his music by using his talents in a variety of ways. He may be best known for his sense of humor, but there is so much more to him and his music. If you listen closely, you can feel the anguish of loss in his captivating "Play A Train Song". Todd is able to tell a story with his music unlike any other...happy, sad, or somewhere in between.
I recently was lucky enough to catch Todd's show in Bloomington, Indiana. From my front row seat I was able to enjoy a great show...but I left with something much more. Worry. You see, it is well known that many talents, including Todd, have had issues with drug abuse. Now I am not here to preach...I have no right to do so....but I can stand and say I am worried for a friend. At the show in Bloomington, Todd's eyes had this withdrawn hollow look. This was just over a month ago. Yesterday I heard Todd had to cancel a show last minute due to a back injury.
Now, as I stated before...I am no judge...so I am not here to place blame or fault...I only want Todd to know this. You are needed...not only by me but many others who enjoy not just your music but also the man. Sometimes this pressure gets enormous, and I have no idea how some cope, but I feel it is important at this time to stand up...and simply speak from my heart...Todd, I hope you are OK....if not find the help you need to get better. Life is precious....you are unique....and I for one enjoy the world much better with you in it.

OWEN TEMPLE - STORIES THEY TELL

Owen Temple continues his progression of great music with his new release entitled "Stories They Tell", which is out today Septemeber 24th. This followup to the astounding "Mountain Home" captivates you immediately from the opening guitar rhythm in "Looking For Signs" taking you on a journey of life and how it was meant to be.
There is nothing better than the purity of music itself...not trying to be flashy or unique in some creative way..but simply playing the music and allowing the lyrics to paint a vivid picture for the listener. Temple has captured this quality once again on this record.
Not straying far from his own Texas roots, Temple etches out "Make Something", which sounds as if fellow Texan legend Ray Wylie Hubbard just might have had some influence. The grit and dirt in this toe tapper is exceptional. Marty Robbins comes to mind while listening to the sensational "Cities Made of Gold". The title cut "Stories They Tell" would fit neatly within any Rodney Crowell release, with the vocal pitch and lyrics bringing him to mind.
With influences and comparisons such as that, how could one go wrong?
For me, there is one track that stands all alone on its own. "Homegrown" struck a chord within me that vibrates everytime I listen to it. It is well written, tells a story I can relate with, and Temple does an amazing job with it.
Highly recommend this one to any listener who loves the purity of music and the talent of an exceptional singer/songwriter.

ROBBIE FULKS - GONE AWAY BACKWARD

If you are unaware of who Robbie Fulks is, or never heard his music, please pay close attention...or perhaps it is too late for you so in that case go back to your Tim McGraw/Kenny Chesney collection and enjoy.
Robbie Fulks has been creating exceptional music for quite sometime. His latest release "Gone Away Backward" finds him once again on the Bloodshot Records label. I must admit I have been looking forward to this release very much after first hearing about it a couple of months ago. There is something within his music that captures my attention...be it his keen wit or his way of creating imagery I can relate to within his lyrics...I have long enjoyed his music. I have often tried to share my good fortune with others, and explain who Robbie Fulks is...or what his music is like. One of the first questions they often ask is "what song should I listen to of his". Well, I find that hard to answer since there are so many sides to his music. You have the wit of "I Told Her Lies"...the charm and force of "Rock Bottom" or "Barely Human"...and the stellar vivid imagery of "Cold Statesville Ground". I would be doing Robbie a disfavor by selling him short only selecting one or even two songs.
So, it was with much interest I waited for this new release..and also to read the reviews that were written on it. I wanted to wait a few weeks afterward to write my own, just to see what others were saying. What I found most interesting was people trying to tie the title in with the music, by saying he has gone back to his musical roots. Nothing could be further from the truth, since he never left them. Robbie Fulks has always relied on his own keen mind and creativity in his writing and music, regardless of any genre classifications you may try to attach, which is useless in my opinion. Pure music is just that, music that you can feel within you, written and performed by someone who is talented enough to make you think...or make you picture something within your own mind. Robbie continues to do just that with his new release.
Ultimately, there is nothing I can say that can describe what the music sounds like, or what the lyrics were trying to imply within any certain song. The only thing I can say is buy the record, see for yourself what I am trying to say. The music will have an impact upon you, and it is artists such as Robbie who deserve the support of listeners who enjoy music in its pure form. Buy it, sit back, and enjoy. Then tell me what struck you about it. That is what I enjoy about music and conversing...it is all open to the interpretation of the listener.

STURGILL SIMPSON - PURE MUSIC TO ENJOY

OK...time for me to kick it in gear and get this thing going on my own. I am here to promote REAL music...the type you can listen to and recall exactly where you were when you first heard it. The music that tells a story...turn it on...relax..and sing along.

HERE IS THE LINK:
http://sturgillsimpson.bandcamp.com/album/bastard-children


Sturgill Simpson has released one full length record entitled "High Top Mountain", and now has a 2 song sampler available on bandcamp that caught my attention. His vocals are strong...the music pure...and the lyrics stand up and grab you as well. Take a listen to these 2 songs...and lets spread the word on him...and all the others like him who are out there fighting and trying to make a living playing and singing from their hearts for the pleasure of doing it. The music they want to force feed us as country is horrible. Search out those like Sturgill and tell a friend or two.