Category: Batkhi Dahn

Thursday Morning Music Shuffle – Joy and Sorrow Mix

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It’s my birthday, and I’ll cry if I want to…

My Birthday Week continues.  Last night included two stops along the way.  Week 2 of the Jason Ringenberg January Jam residency rolled on… This week guest was Peter Cooper with Chuck Mead joining Jason and Peter for a rendition of The Louvin Brothers classic, “The Christian Life”.  Ringenberg really seems to be enjoying this residency – I know I sure am… Next week’s guest is Tommy Womack!

From there, I headed to Mad Donna’s Loft where I caught the tail end of Simon Reid’s set which sounded great, and then witnessed two rocking sets from the always awesome Renee Wahl (who will be releasing some new music soon!) and Brian Langlinais (who will also be releasing some new music soon!). Both Renee and Brian were backed by top notch bands.

Now the “crying”: two late nights in a row has worn me out, but I will press on… tonight, the fine folks at The Basement East were kind enough to schedule the grand opening of their new Pub for my birthday.  So, I will be hanging out there this evening. The party begins at 6:00 with some awesome folks doing wicked cool covers beginning at 8:00.

On to the shuffle:

“Emma” by Youngstrr Joey

In what is either a moment of serendipity or a moment of cruel irony, the first song in my birthday shuffle is by an artist named Youngstrr (sic) Joey.  This is some really cool music out of Glascow. From a forthcoming album called Grilled Wiig (sic). 

“Black Bruce Wayne Interlude” by Rich Robbins

A brief interlude from THE Black Bruce Wayne himself!  Off of Nimbus.

“Barracuda” by Heart

Back in the day, I used to get pissed off at “Classic Rock” radio because some of my favorite “new” music was not being played on the radio.  To be honest, a lot of what was called “Classic Rock” back in the day was dreck.  But some of it was truly classic.  I put this song squarely in the classic category.  Rock and Roll!

“Pinyin” (Auto-Tune Version) by Batkhi Dahn

Our last listen to the newest single from Batkhi Dahn.  This is the Auto-Tune version of “Pinyin”.  I do not usually recommend auto-tune, but… this…

“Fairweather Friend” by John Cale

From the solo debut by the former Velvet Underground member.  This is the only song on Vintage Violence that was not written by Cale.  The song was written by the legendary Garland Jeffries.

“Ode to Joy” by Joe Jackson

This is the final track on Joe Jackson’s latest album, Fast Forward.  Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!

“Sunny Sadness” by Luke Saxton

A very long and beautiful song by this 19 year old singer-songwriter from York, UK.

“Everybody Knows” by FADES

And we close out today’s shuffle with our first listen to some new music from London.  FADES are an alt-rock band, they are releasing a self-titled EP in March.  I am digging it so far.  The only video I could find is a cover of The Waitresses’ “Christmas Wrapping”.  Enjoy! Merry Christmas!

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VIDEO PLAYLIST


Featured Friday Morning Music Shuffle – MIDI Version Mix

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In the wee hours of the morning, I posted my review of “Shoreline Sessions” a new EP and video project from Weapons of Minor Disruption which features Rob from #E2TG favorite The Danbury Lie. Please check it out. It is really cool (that is the short version of my review, btw).

Last night another of those quintessential East Nashville musical happenings.  Hanging out in a kind of funky, kind of divey space with awesome people (many of them incredible musicians) listening to top notch music.  Last night, it was the East Room with Kent Eugene Goolsby, Lew Card, and Joey Kneiser and the Living Flames.

Tonight, #E2TG Artist of the Year Jon Latham is playing a FREE show at Soulshine Pizza beginning at 7:00.  It is a wrap up to his being Local Artist of the Week for Lightning 100.

On to the Featured Friday Shuffle….

“Anyone’s Game” by Leapfrogtown

Leapfrogtown are a London based band.  This song is from their forthcoming album Dreaming on Public which is due out in a few weeks.  This was my first listen, and I really dug this.  Expect more….

“Pinyin” (MIDI Version) by Batkhi Dahn

So far, we have played the Instrumental Version, the regular version, and now the MIDI version.  One more version of the latest Batkhi Dahn single to go. Autotune version coming soon. 

“Soft Apocalypse” by Smokey the Firebear

Between the Weapons of Minor Disruption review, the Batkhi Dahn song, and now this one – it is kind of like Connecticut day around here.  I have never been to Connecticut.  Seems like I need to remedy that.  “Soft Apocalypse” is rough mix from the album Ohm Atlanta which is due out in February.  The rough mixes have been taken off of Bandcamp in anticipation of the release of the completed album, but there is a ton of music and sounds still out there. Including the CD version of BNGFKR for the incredible price of just $420 (only six remaining – they are going fast… okay probably not).

“Shot in the Dark” by Le Folli Arie

Le Folli Arie are a Prog-Pop band from Milan.  A very interesting sound that I like quite a bit.  Check them out.

“Sinking Ship” by Killing Kuddles

Of late, I have been rocking my Killing Kuddles swag around East Nashville. He has been a favorite around here for a long time and continues to be.  This is a single released last year that I think you will like.

“Harperia” by vod

We featured the instrumental version of this political song from Canada.  Here is the version that features the vocal abilities of Gabriel of The Gabriel Construct whose album Interior City was featured heavily here a couple of years ago.  I could not find a video for this song, so in the Video Playlist below you will find footage from the live debut of The Gabriel Construct from last October. 

“Get It” by Daphne Willis

A ridiculously infectious and upbeat song from Nashville singer-songwriter Daphne Willis.  It is the title track of her recent EP. So, do like the title says – get it!

“Alien’s Trip” by Le Folli Arie

We close with another cool track from Le Folli Arie.

VIDEO PLAYLIST

Monday Morning Music Shuffle – The Pills Ain’t Working Mix

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I am back after an extended time away…  When I last posted, storms were on the horizon for Nashville and that appears to be the case today six days later. In fact, as I look out the window, the rain has started.

This is always an odd week.  Christmas is over, New Years Eve is still a few days away. There is a sense of winding down of the old year and anticipation of what is to come.  In my office, there are many people out this week.  The overall pace of life seems just a wee bit slower.  But, here at E2TG, we keep pushing to the end.  We have more “Earies” to hand out and more shuffles to be shared.

The “Connections” Award. 

The premise:  Although, I don’t always explicitly state it, one of the central themes of Ear to the Ground has always been the thread of connectivity that runs throughout all music.  The Shuffle (which to me is more than random) can often serve to highlight those connections. When songs that seem to be incongruous are placed together, they can often serve to reveal previously unseen connections. These connections come in all different forms and can be difficult to explain.  Long time readers may recall a post I made a few years ago when I shuffled together the then new records by Imperial Rooster and Black Jake and the Carnies.  These two bands came from different regions of the U.S. and were not even aware of each others existence but I found connections.

The Award:  So for this award, I thought about artists/bands who have come into my consciousness who have no visible connection but who speak to me in very similar ways despite their obvious differences.

1.  Tim Lee 3/Bark – A long time favorite of #E2TG, I first encountered TL3 via Couch by Couchwest.  They are based in Knoxville and have roots in Jackson, MS. As I have gotten to know Tim and Susan Lee, I have discovered their deep connection to much of the music I listened to growing up.  To illustrate, I found out not too long ago, that Tim Lee produced or co-produced Will and the Bushmen’s Gawk album which has been a favorite of mine for a long, long time.  In 2015, Tim and Susan celebrated their vinyl anniversary (33 1/3 years) with the release of a new Tim Lee 3 album (331/3) and the very first EP from Bark.  I was lucky enough to see both configurations live in 2015.  The music of both bands manages to sound both fresh and familiar to me.

2. Susan James – A couple of years ago, I got the opportunity to hear and write about Susan’s then new album, Driving Toward the Sun.  Susan is based in Southern California. At the time, I saw where D.J. Bonebrake of X (one of my all-time favorite bands) had acted as emcee for a CD release show for an earlier album.   In 2015, Susan James released Sea Glass which marked a departure from the Americana feel of her previous two releases.  Sea Glass is a wonderful example of California pop music.  Several times on the album, the Paisley Underground sound is evoked very effectively.  It is an album I want to hear over and over. 

Just to put too fine a point on my premise, Tim and Susan Lee have some very deep and personal connections to the original Paisley Underground scene of the 1980s which is evoked so well on Susan James latest album.

On to the shuffle:  I am going to be shuffling from the “Featured  Music” playlist for the three days I am at work this week.  Trying to get through some of 2015’s featured music to clear some room for the many new releases expected in early 2016.

“Taste the Ceiling” by Wilco

So, I think I read somewhere that Wilco front man Jeff Tweedy did not know that there was a new Star Wars movie imminent  when naming the band’s latest album.  The album, which was initially offered as a free download, made many top ten lists for 2015.  I enjoyed the album as I have much of Wilco’s long and extensive catalog.

“More and More” by Bob Margolin

Another track from the new album by Steady Rollin’ Bob Margolin. The album is called My Road.  This is real deal blues music folks!

“Love to a Ghost” by Brandy Zdan

Nashville singer-songwriter Brandy Zdan recently released her self-titled debut solo album.  She was previously a member of the duo Twilight Hotel and the band The Trishas.  I was pleased to find a sampler from her new album on Noisetrade.  Check it out and if you dig – pick up the whole album at the usual spots.

“Pinyin” (Instrumental Version) by Batkhi Dahn

We may be done featuring the Batkhi Dahn Chritmas EP, but we still have several more songs in our playlist.  This is the instrumental version of the latest single. 

“Call Out Mellobird” by The Jackals

Another track from People, the latest album from Edinburgh band The Jackals.

“In the End” by Ilana J

Another listen to the highly listenable debut EP, Free Fallin’ from the Ground Up.  Ilana J is from Birmingham (not Alabama).

“Little Meghan Kelly” by Fendrick and Peck

Fendrick and Peck are a hard travelling, neo-traditionalist folk duo currently residing in Nashville.  They released Lucky Penny this year, and it is one of my favorites of the year.

“Pills” by Carl Anderson

Speaking of favorites, we close out this shuffle with another track from Risk of Loss – which is definitely among my top ten albums of 2015  (if I made such a list).  Carl Anderson is another Nashville artist having moved here from Charlottesville, VA.

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Wednesday Morning Festivus Music Shuffle – Pretty Girl Dancing to Jugband Music Mix

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Happy Festivus!  Stay tuned for the traditional airing of grievances and feats of strength.

You know, even though I have been featuring some holiday/Christmas/Winter/Red Cup themed music for the last few days, I honestly have not been in the spirit of the season.  Maybe it the fact that it is almost 70 in Nashville and tornados are possible later today or maybe it is just the realities of current life.  However, last night, I attended the Ornaments Christmas Show (it was actually their 14th performance this season) which featured the music of Vince Guaraldi from A Charlie Brown Christmas.  The night also featured Holiday music from Tom Mason and the Blue Buccaneers  and a Tuba Christmas.  There was so much great music and great vibes present that I found myself- wholly against my will caught up in the Spirit. 

It also helps that today will be my last day of work for four days and I get to leave early today!!!!

The “Earies” continue with the “Wind Comes Sweeping Down the Plain” Award.

The premise:  I don’t think I’ve ever been to the state of Oklahoma (my parents lived there a short time before I was born). And other than the musical and some college football games, I’ve never given it much thought. (no offense – I really don’t think much at all about anything).  In 2015, however, it seems like I kept hearing awesome music from artists who call Oklahoma home. 

The Award:

1.  I would be severely remiss if I did not give an “Earie” Award to John Moreland.  His album, High on Tulsa Heat, was a break-through and definitely among the top tier of best albums of the year.  Throughout the year, I was fortunate enough see him perform live a few time, and each and every time, he managed to give me goosebumps and stir my heart and soul.  At Americana Fest, Moreland managed to mostly silence a packed out Mercy Lounge and garnered a very rare AMA Showcase encore.  

2.  Dan Martin. I met Dan Martin at a David Olney residency at The 5 Spot earlier this year, and I got hold of his CD Hoka Hey, and it quickly became one of my favorite albums of 2015.

3. Levi Parham and John Calvin Abney.  These two amazing singer-songwriters blew me away when I saw them perform during the Campfire Propaganda residency at The 5 Spot.  Actually, I kind of feel like their is a definite psychic link between Oklahoma and East Nashville. 

4.  Samantha Crain:  I saw Samantha Crain perform as part of an incredible round at the Bluebird Café earlier this year.  She combines excellent songs with a unique voice.  There was some hope that she would make it back to Nashville this month or so, but it did not pan out.  Hopefully, we will see her here again in 2016.

Next, we wrap up our Red Cup Season Playlist!  Best to everyone no matter what you celebrate and if you are struggling with anything during this season remember you are not alone. Peace!

“somerkersfees” + “stille nag” by velodrones

We finish up velodrones Christmas EP with lovely versions of Christmas Carols.

“Blanket” + “Fantasy” + “Stocking” by Batkhi Dahn

We wrap up the Batkhi Dahn Christmas EP with three songs.  “Blanket” refers to the thing you place under the tree. I’ve always called it a “skirt” but I will defer to the New Englanders since they actually might have snow this season.   

“Barbeque” + “Closer Now Than Ever Before” + “Brothers” + “Hole in the Washtub” from Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas

We roll through the last four songs from the Emmet Otter Jugband Christmas.  The two-tapping Barbeque, the two songs which were mashup yesterday, and the equally toe-tapping Hole in the Washtub.   I just noticed that Hulu has the special, so maybe I will watch it all tomorrow.

“O Come, O Come Emmanuel” by Milktooth

Nashville band, Milktooth – who we have featured in the past, released a lovely version of this Carol along with a  powerful and moving video (which is in the Video Playlist below).

“Winter’s Lie” by Angela Easterling

“Earie” Award winner Angela Easterling released a season song.  It is a gorgeous song.

“The Earth Stood Still” by Future of Forestry

And we finish off the Future of Forestry Advent Anthology with this song.  I think this is an original song – or at least I have not heard it before and I could not find anything in a brief search to indicate it is not a Future of Forestry original.  A really lovely song.

 

VIDEO PLAYLIST

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Monday Morning Red Cup Season Music Shuffle – Grandma Otter Mix

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I have to just admit right now that I’m really not feeling it today. Whatever “it” is.  The approaching holiday with everything surrounding it, the fact that this is the shortest day of the year, and that fact that it is a grey and rainy day here in Nashville…   But, I will press onward…  rest assured…

The “Earies” are getting down to the wire.  Our last six awards are forthcoming. It is getting difficult to decide which award to post.  Do I save one for right toward the end or do I go ahead and post it now… who have I forgotten… what should I call this or that award… but I don’t really have time for all that existential overthinking…

Consider this the counter-point to the “All the Young Dudes” award – kind of… I will call it the “Southern Women Showcase”  Award focusing on some of the excellent music I came across this year that happened to come from female artists who either live in or originated the southern part of the United States) (or both)….

1.  Tiffany Huggins Grant – A Jonquil Child from Smyrna, Georgia (now a Nashville resident). Tiffany released here stunning album, Jonquil Child early this year, and it serves as an excellent testimony to her extraordinary vocal abilities and her strength as a songwriter.  The album was produced and features guitar work from fellow “Earie” winner – Mark Robinson.

2. Amy Black – Although she recently relocated from Boston to the Nashville area, Amy Black grew up near (but apart from) the music mecca of Muscle Shoals, Alabama.   Her recent album, The Muscle Shoals Sessions includes classic and lesser known tracks recorded in that fertile ground – plus a few original compositions inspired by recording and being around that hallowed ground.

3. Angela Easterling – Hailing from South Carolina, Angela Easterling released the amazing, Common Law Wife this year.  The album is a showcase of her amazing abilities  as a singer/songwriter.  Coincidently (or whatever) both Easterling’s album and Amy Black’s album feature the guitar work of Nashville icon, Will Kimbrough.  

I was fortunate enough to see all of these talented artists perform live during 2015, and I look forward to what they each have in store in the future.

We have three shuffles before Christmas… so let’s have our second installment of the Red Cup Season Playlist shuffle.  Remember – I tried to pick a name for this playlist that could not possibly cause offense. Red Cup seemed like a pretty neutral thing….

Just as E2TG strives to cover music from as many different angles has possible, today’s shuffle pretty much does the same with holiday music. 

“Tree” by Batkhi Dahn

The opening track from the Batkhi Dahn Christmas EP.  This one is about that classic Christmas symbol – the Tree – oh Tannenbaum.  No, it is not that song.  To add this EP to your collection simply use the widget below.

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“Yancey Woodchuck’s Barbeque” from Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas

I’ve come to the realization that even though Emmet Otter was a Christmas special, the music was not particularly Christmasy..  This track records the moment when ol’ Yancey Woodchuck performs the song that Emmet and his Jugband were going to perform. Even though his performance was subpar, our heroes were forced to quickly rehearse an alternate song.  You may recall, they went with the Metallica song, “Enter Sandman”… I think – it’s been years since I’ve seen the show.

“The Bathing Suit She Wore” from Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas

What says the Holidays more than a song about the extremely large bathing suit once worn by your deceased Grandma Otter?  Not much, not much!

“Santa’Self (F*ck Your Christmas Party)” by Butch Walker

Thankfully, the Christmas party I attended this weekend was not like the one described in this song, but I do know what Butch Walker is talking about.  Some NSFW language unless you are wearing headphones or working from home.

“Little Drummer Boy” by Future of Forestry

“Carol of the Bells” by Future of Forestry

I just grabbed hold of  a holiday sampler from Future of Forestry on Noisetrade.  These are some lovely and original arrangements of some classic songs.

“kom alle getroues” (O Come All Ye Faithful) by Velodrones

“Bleibet meine freude/Bron van al my Vreugde” (Joy of Man’s Desiring) by Velodrones

In a moment of inattentiveness, I first played this now (seemingly) unavailable velodrones EP in the Summer last year,  before realizing it was some lovely experimental arrangements of Christmas tunes mostly sung in Turt Darren’s native Afrikaans.

“When the Mountains Part 2” from Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas

“Instrumental Theme” from Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas

We close out this Red Cup Season shuffle with two more tunes from Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas.  We have the reprise of a song we played last week, and we finish up with the Instrumental Theme from the beginning of the show.

Once again, because I knew I would not find most of the songs in today’s shuffle on You Tube, I have created a playlist of some of my all-time favorite Red Cup songs….

VIDEO PLAYLIST

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Wednesday Special Red Cup Morning Music Shuffle – Oil Up a Snake Mix

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Wednesday!  Well, thanks to about 500 of you, The Ear to the Ground Facebook page reached the 500 “Like” milestone late yesterday.  It really means a ton to me.  I promise bigger and better things for 2016.

I am running a bit short on time, but The “Earies” 2015 do continue on…   I decided to call this one the “Dirty Rice” Award – aka – the “Land of my People” Award. 

The premise:  Although, I was born in Tennessee and have lived all but about one year in this state, my roots are in the bayous of Louisiana, and I still feel a deep connection to that very unique and colorful state.  This year, I have been fortunate enough to write about two artists and albums with connections to Louisiana.  This seemed like as good a reason as any to link them for this award.

The Awards: 

Kevin Gordon – is one of the most respected songwriters around.  He has released a number of excellent albums, and his album Gloryland definitely raised the bar. In 2015, he released Long Gone Time, and with it, he managed to raise the bar even further.  Kevin Gordon is an incredible live act, and his music really captures the complicated realities of the post-Civil Rights era deep south.

D.L. Duncan – A well respected blues musician and songwriter, D.L. “Dave” Duncan, released a self-titled album in 2015 that really captured the essence of the what the blues are all about. The album was partially produced in Lafayette, Louisiana which happens to be where my parents lived when they were first married.  Featuring an all-star cast of musical talent, the album has some of the most infectious blues grooves I’ve heard in a long time.

On to the shuffle: I have not downloaded a ton of Christmas/Holiday/Winter music this year, and so I had intended to wait until next week to break into that list, however, I did download a few more song last night, so I decided to kick things off today.  As I mentioned before, I struggled with what to call this playlist.  As creative as I can try to be, my playlist names are pretty unimaginative.  The main playlist from which most shuffles are drawn, is just called “E2TG”.  The Featured Friday playlist is called “Featured Friday”. When it came to this one though… I just was not sure.  I have not problem with Christmas, however, for the sake of accuracy, I knew that the list might included some songs some of the other holidays celebrated at this time of year.  I could have called it “Holiday Playlist” but I know the term, “Holiday” bothers some people.  Some songs are not about a holiday, but rather are just about the season of Winter.  Again, Winter playlist didn’t seem to work, because while the winter songs might be appropriate for a couple more months,  I really don’t want to hear about mangers and Santa and elves in February.  In the end, I decided to call this playlist the Red Cup playlist, because, who in the world could be offended by red cup?  Am I right?

“Garland”, “Christmas Creation”, and “Home” by Batkhi Dahn

New England just seems like the place for a good old fashioned Christmas. Even though I am a lifelong resident of the South, when I think traditional American Christmas, the images that form in my mind all correspond to what I think Christmas in New England is all about.  “Winter Wonderland” is not about Christmas in the South… that song in particular brings to my mind images straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting.   This year, there is a brand new EP of Christmas songs from Connecticut – the one of the southern most New England States. Christmas EP features the talents of Hayden and Evan Nork and songs about various aspects of the Christmas holiday.  One listen, and you can expect to have this one playing while you decorate your tree and house with maybe, say… Garland.

“Intro” (1st Interlude) from Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas

From the Jim Henson classic Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas was a 1977 Television special based upon a 1971 Children’s Novel.   Yesterday, I grabbed the soundtrack from Aquarium Drunkard.  Included a few Intro’s including this first snippet with the joke about Snake Oil Salesmen.   “Not many people want to oil up a snake.”

“Jingle Bell Jezebel” by Kevin Gordon

Next up, a holiday tune from “Earie” award winner, Kevin Gordon!

“Take Me Home for Christmas” by Karen Mav

Karen Mav is an incredible singer from Liverpool.   She recently put out this tune which really showcases her incredible vocal pyrotechnics.

“When the Mountains” from Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas

A lovely song from Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas.

“Light Shines Through” (feat. The Hoboken Holiday All Star Band) by Deena and Jon (from The Cucumbers)

Next up, a lovely holiday treat from Deena and John Fried who were both part of the New Jersey.  Joined by an All Star band – this is a great new holiday song.

“Intro” (2nd Interlude) from Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas

Next up, a second interlude from Emmet Otter and the gang.

“Too Early for Christmas” by Tom House

Another day, and another Tom House song.  This is a sort of Christmas song from Songs Like Dreams… More Like Blood.

“Snoopy’s Christmas” by American Scarecrows

American Scarecrows are continuing a long line of folk/country inspired Rock and Roll from Minneapolis.  Here they close out this shuffle with a song dedicated to the World War One Flying Aces, Snoopy.

 

VIDEO PLAYLIST

Note: Since I could not find videos for many of the songs featured in this playlist, I decided to post many of my favorite Christmas/Holiday songs of all time.  Enjoy!


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Featured Friday Morning Music Shuffle – Just the Same as Dyin’ Mix

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“Being afraid of living is just the same as dying.”  This line from Two Cow Garage seems like one of the most important for me to remember today.  More about Two Cow Garage and last night’s other great music is few…

First, the next 2015 E2TG “Earie” Award:

The premise:  “Kids these days.”  I write those words, but how did I mean it?  Was it said with exasperation, as it has been said for generations?  Well, in this case, that is not how it was meant. We live in a time of incredible possibilities – really!  Just thinking about music (keep in mind, I know next to nothing about the recording, mixing, mastering etc. process), the potential for DIY recording, distribution etc. seems pretty amazing.  But of course, availability of technology is just a part of the equation.  It is when and where ripe and fertile minds meet this “new” technology that things start to get exciting.  The driving force for me when it comes to music is the constant search for something new.  E2TG has always been (in part) a balancing act between incredible new music being made all over the globe  and maintaining a health appreciation and passion for the music that made the new music possible.  It’s about connections. Right?  Yes!  Some “kids” these days are using the tools of the day to make some really cool music, and sometimes, this exciting new music is forged by an appreciation of music way older than those who are making it.

About three years ago???? I was introduced (by Papa Tune’s – of course) to a young band of brothers from Connecticut called The Foresters.  At the time, I think only one of the brother was a teenager – the rest were pre-teens.  I made a joke that their average age was 10 3/4 but that their amps go up to eleven. (or something like that). The Foresters were a pop punk band – formed after the three brothers, named Nork, attended a Green Day concert and asked for a received instruments.  The early music was really good power, pop punk. Over the past couple of years, The Foresters have released a couple of EPs, recorded with and as several different side projects. The influences have expanded and diversified and the music has gotten more complex and better.  The band’s latest album, Sun Songs, finds the band reaching a new plateau – while the possibilities remain endless. A couple of years ago, the band were given the Hope For the Furure award by the Couch by Counchwest Music Festival. Well, the future is now, and The Foresters appear poised to find out what happens next – which at this moment is a 2015 “Earie”.  Actually, special mention for this award needs to go out to all of the artists on the band’s homegrown record label, Dord Music Group.

Congratulations to The Foresters – you are the 2015 “Kid These Days…” Award winners.

Last night was a quintessiential Nashville live music night – with some great shows going on in different venues.  Me, I hung out at The Five Spot.  Early, was a show featuring Fats Kaplin, Kristie Rose, Paul Burch, and more.  Later, I was introduced to my new favorite band.  They are called Red Collar from Durham, NC. They are a high energy, punk influenced band.  Austin Lucas – who I saw for the third time this year was as amazing as ever, and Two Cow Garage who I saw for the second time this year (and who barely made it due to mechanical issues) blew me away as they did the first time I saw them.

Tonight, I’m excited to see Jon Latham opening up for the legendary Malcolm Holcombe at The Basement (not East).

Now, we have a Featured Friday shuffle to close out the post-holiday work week.

“Darling Valentine” by Richie Owens and the Farm Bureau

2015 “Earie” award winning, Richie Owens and the Farm Bureau are up first in the shuffle with the first of a pair of songs today from Tennessee (the album and the state).

“Sweeten the Deal” by The Deadline Shakes

Another listen to infectious Glasgow band, The Deadline Shakes and a song from their album, Zealots.  

“L and N” by Richie Owens and the Farm Bureau

First of all, this title should have an ampersand rather than the word “and” but every time I use an ampersand I get really weird HTML formatting issues.  If anyone knows a way around that, shoot me a message – I’d prefer to get the song name right…  This is one of my favorite songs on the album Tennessee.

“Collateral Language” by Zaibatsu

A rocking instrumental – the last song on the album Zero from the Pregressive Rock band from Rome, Italy.

“Pinyin” by Batkhi Dahn

Batkhi Dahn is the brain child of Hayden Nork, the middle brother of the “Earie” Award winning The Foresters.  Pinyin is the latest single from Batkhi Dahn – this is the a-side.  There are some really awesome things happening here.

“This Broken Gall Bladder Wants to Kill Me” by Bashful Hips

This is the final song on Too Old for a Coming of Age Story – from experimental artist – Bashful Hips.

“Into Your Arms” by The Naddiks

This is our last track to post from the 21CB album.  The Naddiks are from Canberra. They have a new single called “Stop Listen and Love” which delivers an important anti-bullying message.  Look that up – we will get to that one soon.

“Used To” by Brian Keenan

Another listen to Fits and Starts the new album from Brooklyn singer-songwriter Brian Keenan.  I like this song a bunch.

“One of These Days” by Jeremy Nash

Another from Get Away Driver – from Nashville (via New York) singer-songwriter Jeremy Nash.

“If We Don’t Find Love Tonight” by Barney Goodall and The NightHawks

A first listen, and one I was very impressed with.  From Liverpool, this is some pretty cool, music which brings to mind Nick Cave or Tom Waits.  The video I found is of Barney Goodall doing a Wait’s song which gives me one more chance to plug the Tom Waits tribute and benefit tomorrow night at The 5 Spot. I will be there late – after Drivin’ ‘n’ Cryin’.

VIDEO PLAYLIST

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Featured Monday Music Shuffle – Fell Down on my Knees Mix

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Welcome back!  I trust everyone had an okay weekend… Winter seems to have put in an appearance here in Nashville with our coldest morning of the season…

Music around town is still heating up.   Friday night, I caught a trifecta of great shows.  Joey Kneiser had part one of his album release show at Grimey’s New and Used Music.  Great stuff, and be sure to check out his new album.  Next, Nellie Clay opened for Will Kimbrough downstairs at The Basement.  Nellie sounded awesome, and Will Kimbrough melted faces with his songs and his playing.  After that, I booked it across the river (following the lead of Mary Sack) to The Family Wash for Tommy Womack’s birthday show.  Tommy, who is well on his way to full recovery from his car accident at the beginning of the summer, pulled together an all-star band (Mark Robinson on guitar, Ross Rice on keyboards, Daniel Seymour on bass, Brad Pemberton on drums, and Lisa Oliver Gray).  They ripped through an impressive set that opened with a version of the Velvet Underground song, “Sweet Jane” and closed (before an encore) with Dylan’s “Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again”.  In between, Womack hit some of his best songs – like “Alpha Male and the Canine Mystery Blood”, “90 Miles an Hour Down a Dead-End Street”, and “Nice Day” and more.

Saturday, featured another really entertaining Mark Robinson Band show at The 5 Spot.  Back by Daniel Seymour and Rick Schell. Robinson showed off his incredible blues rock guitar chops.  Honestly, one of the best live bands around.  That was followed by a short trip over to the Family Wash – this time to catch Knoxville living legend, poet, and songwriter R.B. Morris. Morris also put together an amazing band  (Greg Horne on guitar, Daniel Kimbro on Bass, and Paul Griffith on drums).  Morris was in rare form as he tore through a set that besides his original music included covers of Leonard Cohen and Tom Waits.  Morris will be back in Nashville one week from this coming Saturday for the 10th Annual Get Behind Mule Tom Waits Tribute and Benefit for Second Harvest Food Bank.

To the shuffle – partially because Friday was so much fun and also because this is a short work week plus to help clear out some of my Featured playlist – I have made the executive decision to do all Featured Music shuffles this week.

“Crossroads” by Sara Syms

We open up the shuffle with Sara Syms bold take on the classic Robert Johnson song, “Crossroads”.  Syms adds her distinctive touch to the song, and as a result, it is a central part of her new album. 

“Pinyin” (DJ Mankiewicz Remix) by Batkhi Dahn

Batkhi Dahn from Connecticut has a new single called, “Pinyin”.  The download includes a few different mixes and versions of the song – including this one.  I continue to be amazed by the growth being shown by Batkhi Dahn and by all of the artists on the Dord Music Group label.  In the video playlist, we have a brand new video for Batkhi Dahn’s song, “Yip” which gives a good look into the mind of Batkhi Dahn mastermind, Hayden Nork. 

“3000 Miles” by James Tomberlin

Songwriter, James Tomberlin is greatly missed here in Nashville, but I, for one, and happy that he is pursuing his goals.  I am also very glad that Josh Morris managed to get James into the studio before he left to record this wonderful EP, “Still Life with Orange”.  This song is about a long distance relationship, and it shows off Tomberlin’s adept word play and songwriting.

“I Really Don’t Care” by Dan Coyle

Another track from Random Thoughts and Incomplete Sentences. This album and some other Dan Coyle music can be found on Noisetrade.

“Bright Spot in a Bad Year” by The Deadline Shakes

This is the lead track from the debut album by Glascow band, The Deadline Shakes.  It features some pretty infectious music.  Look for more from them forthcoming.

“Real Bad Low” by Sara Syms

Another great song from “Way Back Home”.  If you missed it, this might be a good time to read my review of the album.  HERE

“Goodbye” by Dan Coyle

Our second song of the day from Dan Coyle’s Random Thoughts and Incomplete Sentences.  Dan Coyle is a consistently great songwriter. The stuff on Noisetrade would make a good jumping on point if you want to check him out… which you should.

“Lay My Head Down Easy” by Tom House

Another track from Tom House’s album Songs Like Dreams… More Like Blood.  An authentic and original voice from a long time Nashville songwriter.

“Call” by New York Tourists

We close out with the a single from an alternative band that is neither from New York nor tourists.  I really like this song a lot.  It has been described as Queens of the Stone Age meets The Foals.  I will leave it up to you to decide if that is accurate.  It’s a really groovy song, though.  Check it out.

VIDEO PLAYLIST

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Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle – You, You Know I’m Right Mix

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I had a good time last night at The Basement East.  I got to see performances from two people I was first introduced to at the Safety Harbor Song Fest way back in late March – Chris Gelbuda and Daphne Willis.  It was the soft EP Release Show for Willis – whose new EP, Get It, will be released on Friday. 

Opening the show was Kyshona Armstrong.  She actually played the first Safety Harbor Song Fest in 2014.  She plays some wonderful acoustic soul music and was backed by an outstanding band.  I really enjoyed her set, and I will be on the lookout for more opportunities to see her again.

Daphne Willis played next back by yet another outstanding band.  I am always hesitant to assign genres when the artist/band does not.  I will say there is a real pop instinct to her music.  The overwhelming impression is energy, enthusiasm, and a very clear understanding and appreciation for the way her music sounds.  Chris Gelbuda, who co-produced her new CD, joined her for a couple of songs, and then was the next on the bill.

I found out after the set that Gelbuda and his band only got the chance for minimum rehearsal time before the show, but I can honestly say, that did not come across. Gelbuda is an accomplished producer (he produced the latest hit single for Meaghan Trainor) and a professional songwriter.  I was very impressed by the caliber of his songs. 

Unfortunately, I had to leave before the last act on the bill was done, but Sonia Leigh – playing with much of the band that accompanied Daphne Willis – sounded great.

On to the mid-week shuffle for your listening pleasure…

“Stupid Bird (This Time Next Year)” by Dean Fields

Another track from the Harvester Sampler.  This song relates the migration (leaving only return) to the similar effect small towns have on people.  I really like this one.

“Generic Bike Rider” by Batkhi Dahn

The return of Batkhi Dahn to the shuffle.  They have a new single out, but this is from the Plays 15 record.  This song is not about a name brand bike rider. Just so we are clear.

“City Kids” by Motorhead

What’s that? Why does Ear the Ground never have early period Motorhead in the shuffle?  The hell you say!  Ta-Da.

“The Bulrushes” (Bongos cover) by Tim Lee 3

When I came across this song a few weeks ago, and then discovered it was a few years old, I had to wonder why it took me so long to learn of its existence. Some of favorite people and E2TG favorites from Knoxville, Tennessee covering one of my favorite songs by one of the best bands of all time.  The song appeared on an benefit album for Hurricane Relief – I think following Sandy.

“The Hydra’s Heart” by The Unravelling

One of my favorite local songwriters has been posting lots of metal links today (that really doesn’t narrow it down much), but before I even knew that, this song came into the shuffle from the progressive metal band from Calgary, Alberta, Canada.  The lead track (I think) from Tear a Hole in the Collective Vision. ROCK!

“It’s All Gone Now” by Jeremy Nash

Nashville-by-way-of-New York singer-songwriter Jeremy Nash just released a new album called Getaway Driver.  I got to hear him do some songs in a round Sunday night at Bobby’s Idle Hour.  This is our first listen to Getaway Driver, and it will not be the last.  We start with the last track on the album because that is how our randomness rolls sometimes. I’ve just listened to a few tracks on the album, but I really dig what I’ve heard so far.

“Monterey” by The Milk Carton Kids

Monterey is the title track from the latest album by the folk duo, The Milk Carton Kids. The track came to us via those 100 World Café Session downloads we got back several months ago. It is a great performance of a gorgeous song.

“Collide” by Dan Coyle

Another track from Random Thoughts and Incomplete Sentences – the 2009 album of one of our favorites. 

“I Don’t Wanna Know” by Human Radio

We close things out with a favorite from the self-titled Human Radio record.  The band is working on a new album and playing some shows in Nashville and Memphis – including this Saturday at The 5 Spot. 

VIDEO PLAYLIST

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Thursday Morning Music Shuffle – My Dark Sense of Humor Mix

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How goes it? A bit overcast here in Nashville with some cooler temps on the way…

Tonight is week 2 of David Olney’s month-long residency at The 5 Spot in East Nashville.  Interested to see what he has up his sleeves this week after last weeks excellent start.

Let’s jump into the shuffle—

“Long Way ’round” by Fendrick and Peck

First up is the opening track and our second listen to Lucky Penny the new album my Nashville-based folk duo Fendrick and Peck. A great way to start my morning commute.

“XXX-Mas (Empty, Hopeless, Irritable, Anxious, Guilty, Tired)” by Bashful Hips

We have another track from Too Old for a Coming of Age Story. This too is the opening track.  An uplifting song… that I can relate to way too well…

“Mardi Gras in My Town” by Batkhi Dahn

Another Batkhi Dahn song to brighten our Thursday shuffle… This one goes back to the 4 song EP called 4 Song Delinquent EP.  Continuing a mini-trend of the day, this, too, is the opening track of that release.

“American Bigfoot” by Fangs and Twang

Ear to the Ground favorite Black Jake is about to reboot things with a new set of Carnies (or at least that is my understanding).  The most recent group of Carnies have a new project called Fangs and Twang.  If you, like me, always wondered what these particular Carnies would sound like without Jake, we have your answer.  This is the kind of heavy rock and roll that made this country great! 

“Ay Manzanita” by Susan James

We dig deeper into Sea Glass the stunning newish album by another long time E2TG fave…  this is just a gorgeous California Pop song…  

“R.L. Burnside (Sleight Return)” by Ted Drozdowski’s Scissormen

From Love and Life (and also available on the Noisetrade only EP, Stink Eye), comes a blues infested dream about an encounter with the late blues legend.  Drozdowski actually did spend some time with Mr. Burnside, so this is a dream with some basis in reality.

“Hair of the Dog” by Megan Palmer

One of East Nashville’s best.  Megan Palmer frequently backs up Tim Easton, she has also backed up Darrin Bradbury on occasion, and she is currently backing Amy Speace.  She does a great job backing all these folks, but if you get the chance to see her doing her own songs, please do not miss it.  I have fortunately had two opportunities recently (including Tuesday night’s round at the Bluebird).  This one goes back a ways, to a record she put out called Take You Away.

“Hot Freaks” (GBV cover) by Blitzen Trapper

You know what we have never had appear in a shuffle here at Ear to the Ground? A Guided By Voices cover by Blitzen Trapper.  Happy to say that we can cross that one off our hypothetical #E2TG bucket list…

“Lonely Without You” by Carolina Story

Last but certainly not least, we have Nashville duo, Carolina Story with a song that was on their 2013 EP called Chapter One.  Right now, you can go to Noisetrade and get Chapters One and Two and pay what you like.  

VIDEO PLAYLIST