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Hopefully, Lemmy is having a celestial beer somewhere… RIP
DISCLAIMER: For one of the first times (if not the first times) in E2TG history, I actually composed part of this post in advance. Over the long holiday weekend, I took time to go over the “Earies” and tried to figure out a game plan for my last three posts of the year (two “Earies” and Artist of the Year). When I figured out what I wanted to do for today’s final “Earie” before the AofTY, I knew it was going to be time consuming and so I wrote the next bit in advance.
FURTHER DISCLAIMER: Both yesterday’s and today’s shuffles produced head smacking moments of remembering artist deserving of “Earies”. I can only beg forgiveness for any and all omissions. Despite how it may appear, I do most of #E2TG posts by the seat of my pants. *I know shocking* and to boot, I often have a very disorganized mind. It’s part of my charm… Anyway, let’s jump right into the last “Earie” before the “Golden Earie”….
(this next bit was written on Sunday and editing since then)
Now, we have reached the penultimate E2TG 2015 Award. Tomorrow, I will unveil the 2015 Artist of the Year. As I frequently write and say, I find it very fortuitous that through a series of unfortunate events that I would have never volunarily chosen to end up in the place I am at the moment I arrived. Arrived without travelling… sure, but it has been a journey. Finding myself smack in the middle of the East Nashville music community in the middle part of the second decade of the 21st Century, I am keenly aware of what a moment I am experiencing. You might think I would be jaded or disillusioned by now, and you would be partially correct. I have been jaded and disillusioned many times, and certainly if you look for them or focus on them, there are plenty of reasons to be jaded and disillusioned by the state of music. But, there are causes for hope. The obvious examples that people will mention – Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton, Sturgill Simpson… sure but it goes way deeper and way beyond that. The level of excellence here is incredible. Songwriters, guitar players, bassists, drummers, pedal steel players, photographers, music writers, bookers…. the list goes on,
Now, do not get me wrong East Nashville (or maybe more precisely the other side of Nashville) is not a perfect situation. I have made off-hand (kind of) joking comments about the Nashville Conundrum – referring to the sheer volume of incredible volume of awesome live music and the impossible choices this creates. Choices between two or more shows going on at the same time, choices between going out or staying in to get my own work done or to rest and recover. For a music fan, it is an excellent problem to have – for musicians – not always. It is, I think, a pretty well known fact that some of our community’s best spend a significant amount of time on the road because that is where there is money to be made. Nashville/East Nashville is home base and the spirit of collaboration and community keeps them coming back, but shows that would be events in another city are easily overlooked or passed over here in Nashville.
I do not propose or make any claim to a solution to the monetary issues facing the musicians these days. It seems to me to be a complicated equation. The amount of artistic freedom and autonomy made possible by advancements in technology vs. the increasing difficulty of getting music fans to spend money on independent music. Honestly, it can be discouraging even for someone not directly impacted by it. But, for me it just drives me harder to spread the word about music of substance that needs to be heard more widely and supported.
All that wordiness to say, I am giving the final “Earie” before Artist of the Year to the community of artists who have become a part of my life over the last year and a half. I am going to call out a few people by name, and ommissions are inevitable. In a hypothetic sense, this last “Earie” will be represented by a giant sized “Ear” right smack dab in the middle of 5 Points. You know, that weird intersection of 11th and Woodlawn and those other streets.
1. Aaron Lee Tasjan – I had to single out Aaron Lee for reasons which should become obvious if they are are not already. I had heard about Aaron Lee Tasjan before I actually heard him. The first time I heard him play guitar was on the same day that I met Darrin Bradbury. He was backing up Tim Easton at The 5 Spot. Later, he did a residency at that bar, and I finally got to hear him do his own songs. To say, I was blown away would be an understatement. In fact, I think it took me some time to fully grasp how amazing he was as a songwriter. His mixture of humor, cultural references, and emotional resonance is incomparable. Over time, I learned more about his history and got to meet him and found him to be a really nice guy. The other thing he is – which to me typifies this community, is generous. In 2015, as he began to garner more and more (well deserved) attention, ALT (as he is known) seemed to work even harder at lifting up his fellow musicians and writers. His album, In the Blazes, was one of my most highly anticipated releases and yet it still managed to surprise me. It is a rock and roll record, it is a alt-folk record, it is a alt-country record – it shows off his abilities as a songwriter and as a guitarist.
2. Tim Easton – the mentor and a driving force behind the Campfire Propaganda movement. His experience and wisdom has helped to push these younger songwriters forward, and their influence seems to have revitalized this long-time East Nashville presence. The celebrate his 100th published song, Easton began posting a song a day for 100 days. He is at the tail end of this marathon project.
3. Zach Schmidt – One of the brightest lights in the East Nashville community. Schmidt has an album in the can that will be released in 2016. He has all the attributes of a classic male country music star, and his songs manage to deftly walk the line between tradition and innovation. Watch for Zach Schmidt in 2016.
4. Nellie Marie Clay – Originally from Oklahoma, Clay made her way to Nashville after spending a few years in the far reaches of Alaska. Like Zach Schmidt, she brings a new energy to traditional sounding roots music. Her distinctive drawl and the twanginess of her music made her a force to be reckoned with. Her new album I Never Did What I Shoulda Done is excellent,
5. Megan Palmer – Besides being a go to side musician for the likes of Darrin Bradbury, Tim Easton and others, Palmer is an excellent songwriter in her own right. Her performace of one her best songs, “Knife Twister” backed by an all-star backing chorus that included Julie Christensen, Nellie Marie Clay and others was a highlight of the year. She has a new album ready to go in 2016. It will be worth your while to check it out.
6. Brian Wright – Probably a half dozen of my favorite musical moments of 2015 involve Brian Wright. A powerhouse guitar player, an unequaled songwriter, and a supporter of his fellow musicians. If you ever get the chance to see Brian Wright live – in any configuration, do not miss out!
7. Carl Anderson – Anderson came to Nashville by way of Charlottesville, VA. His album, Risk of Loss, is one of the best of 2015. Such amazing songs.
8. Other songwriters: Andrew Leheay, Lilly Hiatt, Tim Carroll, Tommy Womack, Kiely Schlessinger, Luella Wood, Bob Lewis, Allen Thompson, Russell Thompson, Amelia White, Adrian+Meredith Krygowski, Dave Coleman, Ariel Bui, Yosi Mesbah and so many more. Covering music that can be described as country, alt-country, folk-country, not country, roots rock, alt-folk, rock, blues-rock, jam band….etc. I tend to shy away from putting labels on music (though I understand that for artists it is a necessity sometimes). I think of it as excellent music. Traditionally, Nashville has been known as a town of songwriters, and even though the quality of writing on “the Row” can be called into the question – that tradition lives on around campfires, on porches, and in clubs around the city but concentrated in East Nashville. (And by reference, I include some of the amazing writers who have already won “Earie” Awards)
9. The musicians – once you have a song, the next step is to bring that song to life. And, although that can be done by just the writer and an acoustic guitar, when the song is developed and augemented by the help of some of the best musicians in the world, the results can be amazing. Many of the writers I mentioned are also amazing musicians who frequently back up other writers (Brian Wright, Megan Palmer, and ALT stand out). When you go out and hear music in Nashville, one thing you begin to notice is some of the same faces showing up again and again playing behind a very diverse mix of musical styles. Justin Amaral, Aaron Shafer-Haiss, Steve Ebe, Raun Shultz, David Strayer, Daniel Seymour, Cameron Carrus, Adam Kurtz, and many many more. Some of the above named front their own projects and some do not, but they are all part of the lifeblood that makes this new Music City what it is.
10. The non-musicians – Musicians and songwriters are the reason this scene exists but it would not run if it were for the photographers, managers, bookers, writers, publicists. and behind the scenes folks. I want to call out Stacie Huckaba, Mary Sack, Terry Rickards, Sue Havlish, Karen Leipziger (who is also a songwriter and musician as I recently learned), John McCollum. Skip Anderson, Heather Lose, Randy Fox, and many more.
11. Bands – I should probably mentioned some of the amazing bands who call Nashville home. Covering an incredible diverse range of syles and sounds, Year of October, Dogs of Oz, Turbo Fruits, Blackfoot Gypsies, Humming House, Benchmarks, Fendrick and Peck, and many more.
2016 is going to be an amazing year, and the “Earies” will be back for their second season. But, I’m not quite done with 2015. The Artist of the Year for 2015 will be revealed tomorrow. Stay tuned.
back to live posting Now for the penultimate regularly scheduled shuffle of 2015!
“Heaven’s Gonna Have a Honky Tonk” by Dale Watson
I’m gonna dedicate this one to Lemmy. I think heaven’s gonna have a pretty bitchin’ rock show… I’ll just bet Lemmy and the Ramones are playing “R.A.M.O.N.E.S.” right about now.
This is an older Dale Watson song which was included on his latest album, Call Me Insane which is definitely one of the best albums of the year and one of my favorire
“Windows Fogged Up in Your Pickup Truck” by The Paisley Fields
The Paisley Fields are a alt-country band from Brooklyn that boasts two opera trained singer and a prolific songwriter who happens to be gay. They have an EP that was released this year, but this is an older song of theirs.
“Tread Carefully” by The British IBM
Man, I have really been digging Psychopaths Dream in Black and White. This is really British Indie music the way it was meant to be. Catchy as hell with just enough of an edge.
“The Frame” by Jon Latham
One of the most powerful songs on Real Bad News. Jon will be playing as part of Aaron Lee Tasjan’s killer band opening for Chris Knight at the Exit/In on New Year’s Eve. Boom 2015!
“Only the Young” by Indigenous Engines
From the Werewolves EP, by Indigenous Engines aka “Earie” award winner Andrew Adkins. A new Andrew Adkins is on tap for 2016!
“The Old Testament” by Man Named Pearl
Yeah, Man of Pearl should have won an “Earie”. Can I give them a special award now? It is my blog… ug… whatever…. seriously, Man Named Pearl is the nom de plume of Jesse Turits and part of the fantastic collective/thing called Mama Coco’s Funky Kitchen. This is from -Quietus Make- which I highly and forcefully recommend.
Well, it is time for the last shuffle before the long Thanksgiving weekend. I hope if you are travelling that you have safe travels, I hope you find a place of gratitude, I hope you remember those for whom the holidays are a painful or difficult time. I hope you do all the things you want to do. For my Canadian friends, you can like, #tbt tomorrow to Canadian Thanksgiving or whatever…
We have one more awesome featured music shuffle to see this work week off in style.
“Shut Up and Kiss Me” by Tim Lee 3
Long time friends of Ear to the Ground kick things off with a track from their album 331/3 which was a celebration of the vinyl anniversary of Tim and Susan Bauer Lee. Sometimes words just get in the way….
“Just Try Me Out” (Home Recording) by Tom Schreck
Nashville Outside, Tom Schreck released Added Glory, an EP companion to his two full length records, Outsider and Save Your Glory. The latter of those two records has a turkey on the cover, so maybe this holiday weekend would be a good time to get hold of all of Tom’s albums so you can join me in being grateful for such an amazing songwriter.
“Waitressing Sucks” by Jon Latham
Why bother with subtlety? This straightforwardly titled song, delivers some gut wrenching emotional power. From Real Bad News which is rightfully getting a lot of attention these days. Once you are recovered from the holidays, Jon Latham will be opening for the legendary songwriter Malcolm Holcomb at The Basement on December 4. Doors at 7:00p.m. You do not want to miss that show! As a Thanksgiving bonus, we present, a brand new Jon Latham video of a song he co-wrote with Darrin Bradbury called, “Kimberly Met Billy” which the good folks at Flour Sack Cape released this week. Enjoy.
“Night Sounds” by Brian Keenan
This is the first Ear to the Ground appearance by Brooklyn songwriter Brian Keenan. He just released what I believe is his second album called Fits and Starts. This was my first listen – more ahead. Dig it!
“Paper People” by The Foresters
Sun Songs, the latest album by Connecticut band, The Foresters, is a bold step forward. The band of brothers began making music after their father took them to a Green Day show a few years ago. While their early music, showed a definite influence of the pop-punk leanings of that band (which was all well and good), the band has matured and broadened their sound over the last couple of years, and Sun Songs represents a plateau of sorts for this particular stage of the journey. The maturity also highlights the fact that although the band members are still quite young, they are ready to be judged solely on their merits not as a “good band of young kids” but just as a “good band”. Sun Songs is one of my favorite albums of the year.
“My Mind” by Dan Coyle
Another great track from Dan Coyle 2009 album Random Thoughts and Incomplete Sentences. This is on the featured music playlist for a couple of reasons: 1. it is new to me and 2. It’s my playlist and I can put what I want on it. Oh and 3. It’s a great album.
“Second Sight (for Shlomo)” by Bosveld
Velbrand is the debut album by the Canadian band Bosveld which includes among it’s members Velodrones who has been featured on this sight before. This is envelope pushing folk music. I was first introduced to Velodrones through Valued Customer. Like that band, Bosveld manage to make experimental music accessible without compromising on the originality. It is not an easy feat. Bosveld have been known to go on bike tours around Canada. This album was recently featuring on CBC.
“Ain’t Dead Yet” by Nellie Clay
Nellie Clay is a relatively new Nashville songwriter from Oklahoma by way of Alaska. I have been fortunate enough to see her live a number of times over the last month or so – including last Friday when she opened for Will Kimbrough’s CD Release show. She just released, Never Did What I Should Have Done. It has rapidly become a favorite of mine.
“Crocodile Tears” by Dale Watson
We close out the shuffle with another song from Dale Watson’s Call me Insane album. Watson has a distinctive outlaw country voice, and through his work with the Ameripolitan Music movement, Watson is dedicated to making authentic American music for the 21st Century.
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Been busy this week with writing and getting ready to write. There is a pretty good chance that I won’t have time to post a shuffle tomorrow or Friday, but if I can I will. In any event, expect some other kinds of posts to even things out. I am finally going to be getting out and about a bit tonight – at least that is the plan. And by the way, that “Nashville dilemma” that I have written about is still very much a thing. I’m already double booked on some live shows almost two months out. What a great problem to have.
“The Snake” by Al Wilson
Al Wilson was a soul singer born in Mississippi and later relocated to California. This song was a hit in 1968 and was produced by Johnny Rivers. Al Wilson died in 2008 at the age of 68.
“Sweet Release” by Hannah in the Wars
Hannah Curwood is from New Zealand but relocated to Great Britain and formed Hannah in the Wars. This song is the b-side to a single called, “Only Wanna Be”, and both songs can be found on the self-titled debut by the band – released earlier this year. Added from a submission – this was a blind listen today, and I really dig this.
“A Day at a Time” by Dale Watson
One more from Dale Watson’s acclaimed recent album, Call Me Insane. There is just something about Watson’s rich voice that I really love.
“EKG” by Wilco
The short opening track from Star Wars which was released for free digitally earlier this year and which is now being sold on CD and more recently vinyl.
“God and Money” by Ike Reilly
Our final track from the Ike Reilly mega download from Noisetrade, and one of my favorites. This one has been floating around the playlist for several months.
“Sing to the Mountain” by Elephant Revival
Elephant Revival released a combo live CD/DVD called Sands of Now. They are from Colorado and the live performance is from the Boulder Theater. Sands of Now came out in July, and we have been featuring songs from it for a few months now. One of a number of “Elephant” related bands which have combined to lead the website Klout to be convinced that I am an expert on Elephants. Hmm.. hit me up for your elephant related questions and problems… really don’t. #notanexpertonelephants.
“Self-Taught Learner” by Lissy Trullie
This one came to me via the Feel Bad for You mixtape – September edition. The song is the title track from a 2009 EP by this Washington DC born/New York based alternative singer songwriter.
“This is the Sea” by The Waterboys
And we close things out with the title track from The Waterboys’ 30 year old album, This is the Sea. This song probably resonates more today than it did when I first heard it . It is a stirring song of freedom and the fears and perils and exhilaration inherent in absolute freedom. “Once you were tethered, Now you are free.”
14 Years… I have read some really powerful things today about THAT day. What I remember is some sense of unity… if nothing else, for a moment or moments, many of us were united… if in nothing else, then in fear and confusion and uncertainty. In degrees and over time, that unity has mostly dissipated… into conspiracy theories and feelings about the events that followed about the need for security vs. the importance of freedom. I was at work, and getting my news in fits and starts on a slow internet connection and the radio.
What I remember… I was taking part in an drama workshop put on by the Parks Department. Of the course of the workshop, we learned acting techniques, but our main goal was to create an original production which would then perform. If I recall correctly, the second class was on September 11, 2001. The class was held as scheduled, though I remember thinking it might be cancelled, and we spent much of that class talking about what had happened. It was a pretty diverse group of people and there were a variety of different feelings being expressed, and of course, the day ended up greatly shaping the production we created. Our production included adaptions of Brecht’s The Good Person of Szechwan and Beckett’s Waiting for Godot – as well as some other elements – all subtly adapted to speak to the events of 9/11/2001.
I don’t know what THE lesson of that day is supposed to be… maybe it’s still too soon, or maybe there is not one lesson. For me, today at least, I am going to try to remember how fragile life can be and make the most of every moment and treat people with as much kindness as I can. I will probably fall short of that… I probably already have… but I am going to keep trying.
“Montgomery” by The Vigilance Committee
We start off with another track from Exit a Hero from the Long Island based Progressive Rock band. I have been spinning this record for several months, and I am still liking the sound of it.
“I Owe It All to You” by Dale Watson
Call Me Insane but Dale Watson has made one of the best albums of the year. He is a real deal Traditional County singer who was once told he was too country for Nashville. Whatever! Driven by those comments, he eventually founded a whole new movement called, Ameripoitan (Outlaw Country, Honky-Tonk, Rockabilly, and Western Swing).
“Human Condition” by The Naddiks
Somehow this song seems like a good fit for 9/11. The Naddiks are a young, uplifting indie band from Australia. The record is called 21CB (21st Century Boy).
“The Spring” by Dan Martin
Just over a week ago, on the suggestion of my friend Mary, Dan Martin gave me a copy of his CD – Hoka Hey at the 5 Spot for the 1st Week of the David Olney Residency. I finally got to give it a spin over the weekend, and I really liked what I heard. This is the first track to appear in a shuffle, and more will be forthcoming. Dan Martin is from Oklahoma. The music is well-written, well played country influenced music.
“Cold Black Pitch” by The End Men
In just a couple of months, I will have known The End Men for 4 years. In 2013, I named them my Band of the Year, and everything they have done since has served to confirm that decision. Terms and Conditions, the album they released earlier this year, expands on their signature hard blues rock sound with Matthew Elia’s sax providing a strong counter-point to Matthew Hendershot’s Waitsian vocal growl and guitar godliness and Livia Ranalli’s powerhouse drums. Beyond all of that, they are generous and kind people. Oh, and they melt faces live!
“Piece By Pieces” by Indigenous Engines
Andrew Adkins is a busy man with a lot going on. He released two EPs this year under the Indigenous Engines moniker. This track is from Witches. A great song.
“Life is Hard” by Darrin Bradbury
The Bonus Track from The Story of Bob. Otherwise known as “The Ballad of Jack Kerouac, Lenny Bruce, and Daffy Duck”. Darrin was my 2014 Artist of the Year.
“Magnolia” by Pony Boy
From Pony Boy’s new album Blue Gold which was produced by the Adam Landry and Justin Collins – best known for their work with Deer Tick, Diamond Rugs, and T. Hardy Morris and to E2TG readers as the producers of Black Vincent. The song is a homage to the late Magnolia Electric Company frontman Jason Molina. It is a powerful, moving, and gorgeous song.
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Here we are at the end of the work week!
I had such a massively fun time last night at The Basement East. Two shows, six full band sets, seeing and hanging out with some of my favorite people. Music-wise: Nancy Terzian and the Leg Men, Stone Cupid featuring Julie Christensen rocked the early show. Lauren Farrah, Raelyn Nelson Band, Darrin Bradbury leading Hot Garbage (which included Margo Price on Drums and Andrew Leahey on Guitar), and Brian Wright closed the night with four very different but all incredible sets.
Onward, we have our second installment of the newly repurposed Featured Friday… enjoy!
“Middle” by Paul Zografi
We start out our last shuffle of the work week with another great song from Paul Zografi’s album Bright.
“Magnetized” by Wilco
We continue to dig into the recent surprise Wilco release Star Wars. “Magnetized” is the final song on the album.
“Whiskey” by Grumsling
“Whiskey” is the first track on Grumsling’s album Full Coverage. The song goes down easy and leaves a warmth in your belly… just like fine whiskey…
“Uniform” by The Poorhouse Says
Has anyone else noticed that the first four songs in today’s shuffle all had one word titles? The streak ends after this song, but a happy coincidence. as patterns go is one of my favorite albums of 2015 – delightfully understated and brilliant. The Poorhouse Says are a relatively long-running band from St. Louis.
“Great Highway” by Dog Without Warning
Dog Without Warning have been an #E2TG favorite for a few years. Great Highway is one of a handful of new songs the band has released in the last couple of months. As they seem to do at every opportunity, the band has once again reinvented their sound while maintaining their integrity of writing great songs. Great Highway comes off to me as a classic-sounding California rock song.
“The Deadly Depression of a Sad Salesman” by Bashful Hips
Word on the street is that Bashful Hips may be returning to Nashville. After our run of one word titles followed by a two word title, this one comes it at seven words! The music is unique and the songs are very good.
“I’m Through Hurting” by Dale Watson
Another track from Dale Watson’s Call Me Insane album. Watson has been making music for close to 40 years, and his latest album finds him sounding as good as he ever has – offering hope that the best is yet to come.
“Poseidon’s Daughter” by Susan James
Susan James’ new album, Sea Glass, finds the California singer-songwriter adding a page to the rich and storied California Pop Song lexicon. There is a delicate and subtle psychedelic vibe to this opening song. Or at least that is the feeling the song evoked in me.
“Don’t Wanna Fight No More” by Patrick Kinsley and A Fistful of Dollars
We close out the week’s music with a favorite song from Patrick Kinsley’s For a Thousand Miles album which I reviewed earlier this month. Kinsley’s music falls into a musical gray area that often gets labeled as Americana these days. Kinsley favors verse-heavy songs over choruses, but as in this song, he shows that he is capable of writing a mean hook when necessary.
From the album Exit a Hero – some most excellent, proggy sounding, Indie Rock out of Long Island, NY.
“Watching the Sun Go Down” by Kevin Gordon
We’ve started listening to Kevin Gordon’s forthcoming album, but this one goes way back to his 2005 album called, O Come Look At the Burning. We got it off a Noisetrade Sampler that this still available at that site.
“Trap Door” by Stars
Stars are from Canada. Their Facebook Page lists their genre as Melodramatic Popular Songs, Amazon lists it as Alternative Rock. E2TG doesn’t care too much for genres. Pretty upbeat fun sounding music.
“SGS” by Grumsling
Another track from our new friends from Oakland, California. Grumsling are one of my favorite “discoveries” of the year so far. This song is from their 7 song release from 2014 called Full Coverage
“Noise” by Jesse Terry
Connecticut based singer-songwriter Jesse Terry with a track from his latest EP called, The Calm and The Storm. This is one of those gorgeous songs that seems like it should have always existed. From some reason, it struck me that this song would not be out of place on Billy Joel’s classic Cold Spring Harbor – and I mean that as high praise.
“Pictionary” by APE MEN
“Edgy indietronica formed on the post Iron Curtain fringe of the European Union.” From their debut EP Zero which was released earlier this year. Pretty cool sounds… and a fun reminder of when me and my sister ruled at Pictionary the game.
“Destroy Me” by The Naddiks
The Naddiks are a high energy Alternative band from Canberra. This is the opening track from their EP called 21cb.
“Mama’s Don’t Let Your Cowboys Grow Up to be Babies” by Dale Watson
So far, the shuffle has moved between singer-song writers and alt/prog/indie bands from all over the world. Let’s bring this whole mess together as only E2TG can… with Dale Watson covering Tony Joe White’s answer to the Ed and Patsy Bruce song made famous by Waylon and Willie. This song is on Dale’s latest album Call Me Insane.
Last night was week 3 of 4 of the Kevn Kinney Residency at The 5 Spot in East Nashville. Each show has been unique and each show has been wonderful. Last night, Kinney was joined by Lydia Lunch (in what may or may not have been Ms. Lunch’s first Nashville appearance – she wasn’t sure). The combination/collaborations of Kinney’s songs with Lunch’s spoken word/poetry was different and brilliant. They were accompanied by Audley Freed on guitar and James Haggerty on upright bass. Definitely a one of a kind event.
“The Gay Day” by Atticus Floyd
We have another visit to Atticus Floyd’s album, Russell Stover Stole My Babbie. This is a mostly instrumental song (the track opens with a stuttered utterance of a single word). I am repeating the Neutral Milk Hotel cover video (in the Playlist below), because: a) it is a Neutral Milk Hotel Cover (and a good one) and b) because Atticus plays the singing saw on the song.
“Child Support Blues” by Adolphus Bell
I recently got a hold of some more music from the Music Maker Relief Foundation. In case you missed my previously posts, they are a great organization that helps support and preserve some of the living lesser know legends of Blues and roots music. Check them out. Adolphus Bell was a bluesman/one-man band. He passed away in 2013.
“Used and Abused” by Midnight Oil
Up next a track from Midnight Oil’s self-titled debut album which was recorded in 1977 and released in 1978. Because, why not?
“Whiskey Pick” by Lara Hope and the Ark-Tones
It never fails… first of all, I could not remember how I came to have this song on my playlist, and when I heard it, my first thought was – this is fantastic, David Horton (Popa Tune’s) needs to hear this, and then I did so research, and guess what – I got this song from him – on his Popakazooza Vol. 13 Mixtape. I should have known. You can’t get great music like this past the Popa very often. From their album, Luck Maker.
“Guilty of Myself” by Jesse and Noah
The first of two tracks today from Nashville brothers, Jesse and Noah from their album Driven Back. Look for a new song from them coming soon.
“Forever Valentine” by Dale Watson
A slow Country ballad from the latest Dale Watson album, Call Me Insane.
“You Satellite” by Wilco
Last week, Wilco, unexpectedly sent me a download link to their album – I assume because I am cool. What can I say, except that is Wilco!
One of the reasons I love Nashville, is the fact extraordinary musical moments can feel down right ordinary. For instance being at cool little dive bar on the East side for an early show that just happens to feature Kevn Kinney (drivin’ and cryin’) playing with a band he introduced as Sun Tangled Angel Revival (S.T.A.R.) which is a project he started in 2002. The band just happened to feature Sadler Vaden (currently in Jason Isbell’s band), Bryan Howard (of Cracker), and current drivin’ and cryin’ drummer, Dave V. Johnson. The band sounded great, and then a little more than half way through the hour and a half show, Audley Freed (Black Crowes, Sheryl Crow etc.) took the stage and there was some amazing guitar magic. Freed and Vaden together was simply out of this world.
After hanging out a bit at The 5 Spot for a little while, drive across the river for the Patrick Kinsley and a Fistful of Dollars album release show. I hope by now you’ve read my review of For a Thousand Miles and grabbed your copy. A singer-songwriter named James Roquemore opened the night, and I really like his songs and sound. Look for some music from him coming soon to the shuffle. Anthony Adams and the Nite Owls were up next and they brought the party to the party, they were followed by Kinsley and his band who sounded great, and the show was capped by local band Furious Primates – who I finally heard for the first time, and who I now consider myself a fan.
Well… I’ve run on at the mouth a bit, so let’s get to this morning’s shuffle….
“Better Man” by Leon Bridges
It is always a good thing when a relatively new artist starts getting some buzz and then manages to live up to the hype. That is my assessment thus far about Texas Soul and Gospel singer Leon Bridges. A really great way to start the morning.
“Corona” by D. Boon and Friends
I’m really not sure how I am just getting around to hearing the album D. Boon and Friends. The album features late Minutemen guitarist and singer in some rare recordings of Boon in various combinations including some live solo acoustic numbers like this version of the Minutemen song which was on their classic album Double Nickels on the Dime.
“Adult Diversion” by Alvvays
Another from the World Café Sessions download. The Canadian Indie Pop band performing the lead off song from their 2014 self-titled album. Trivia: Did you know Alvvays looks kind of like the work “Always”, but it is not the same word….
“Not Gonna Be Friends” by The Paisley Fields
From my inbox – this one has been in the playlist for a few months. The Paisley Fields are a self-described “queer country band”. This song is a great song about lost love.
“Can’t Admit It” by Lily and Madeleine
One more from World Café… They are a Indie Folk band from Indiana, and this song is on their 2014 album Fumes.
“Bug Ya for Love” by Dale Watson
Another from Watson’s brand new Call Me Insane album – kind of a disclaimer that probably fits a lot of guys…
“This is How We Make the Love” by Christopher Aaron Slade
One more from Christopher Aaron Slade… there is a wonderful infectious energy to his music. Danceable hard rock with sometimes suggestive lyrics. Sounds like rock and roll to me.
“Livin’ On” by 13th Floor Elevators
The Austin band fronted by Roky Erickson from their 1969 album (last by the original line-up). “Livin’ On” is one of only four to include Erickson. Music so far ahead of it’s time that it still sound innovative today.
“Hot Nights in Georgia” by Jason and the Scorchers
Kind of a counterpoint to the John Hiatt song we had in the shuffle earlier in the week… it does get hot down in the Deep South… “Makes me want to journey north to you…”
“Cruel” by Josh Morris
We close things out with Josh Morris with another song from his Green Fields EP. He just released a live in studio video for his song “Automobile” and we have that in the video playlist below.
As I stumble, unwillingly and unwittingly into another work week, I am grateful for a pretty sweet music shuffle to get things rolling… In this shuffle are some classics, some obscure stuff, and some pretty new stuff. It is all worth your attention.
“I’m in Love With a Girl” by Big Star
“I never travel far, without a little Big Star….” Never a bad way to start a week, the legendary Memphis band from their 2nd album Radio City. Power Pop at it’s absolute finest.
“Atlantic City” by Ben Arthur
Another track from Call and Response… Ben Arthur swings for the fences and answers the Bruce Springsteen song from Nebraska.
“When We Was Young” by Black Vincent
This has become one of my favorite albums of the year so far, and I really dig this track.
“Gum in Your Hair” by A Color Engine
A lost classic? Perhaps. As the long wait for the new Don Ryan album continues, we dive back into this release from his old band with Eric Burchfield of Elephant Goes West.
“Suboceana” by Tom Tom Club
“Boom Boom Chi Boom Boom!” We complete our revisit to the classic 1988 album by the band lead by the rhythm section from Talking Heads.
“Vigilantes” by The Vigilance Committee
Progressive concept album. This track really reminds me a lot of the Accomplices EP series from Gypsy West. And that is a very good thing.
“Tiene Cabeza de Palo” by Dale Watson
Another from Dale Watson’s new album, Call Me Insane, and a reminder why Google Translate is your friend.
“Walter Reed” by Ben Arthur
Our second Ben Arthur song of the shuffle – this one is an “answer” to the Michael Penn song, “Walter Reed” which is on his album Mr. Hollywood Jr, 1947.
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It’s Monday and man it sure is hot here in Nashville… you know what else is hot? Today’s shuffle! Hot off the presses… The #E2TG shuffle at it’s best – widely and wildly divergent styles and themes of music congregate on my music player on a weekday morning… enjoy!
“Bowling Green” by The Barefoot Movement
Another traditional tune from The High Road EP. A great way to start the week.
“Another Green World” by Brian Eno
At this point, it seemed like the shuffle might be going for some sort of “green” theme. It ended here… the title track from Brian Eno’s classic 1975 album. I would say chances are good that even if you aren’t a Brian Eno fan, you’ve likely heard this short instrumental piece.
“Gorilla Girl” by The Dead Milkmen
So far we’ve moved from traditional bluegrass music to ambient art pop and now onto whatever it is that The Dead Milkmen do… From Big Lizard in My Backyard. “I love my groovy Gorilla Girl.”
“Jonesin’ for Jones” by Dale Watson
And from a song about a girl who looks like an ape, do a fine bit of traditional country music in the form of a tribute to the late great George Jones.
“Blood Oranges in the Snow” by Over the Rhine
As the heat index breaks the triple digits for the second or third day in a row, it’s refreshing to hear a song about snow. Blood Oranges are pretty good, too. This is the title track from the 2014 Holiday album by Ohio folk/Americana band Over the Rhine. The first of what amounts to a mini-Ohio theme embedded in the shuffle.
“Ain’t That A Lot of Love” by Webb Wilder
I got to see Webb Wilder play with the Beatnecks a couple of weeks ago. He still packs quite a wallop. This is a cover of a song by Homer Banks and it was later covered by Simply Red (but you’d hardly know this is the same song). Webb makes the song all his own. From Hybrid Vigor.
“Modern Life” by Mothers
A slice of Modern Life from Mothers – another track from Panamanian Times.
“American Tan” by Aaron Lee Tasjan
Our second Ohio artist in the shuffle – although East Nashville claims him now! From the new EP, Telling Stories to the Wall. Dig it!
“I Woke Up in a Race Car” by Batkhi Dahn
So Batkhi Dahn founder Hayden Nork just finished middle school. Listen to this song and let that sink in. Hayden’s other band just released the second single ahead of their forthcoming album Sun Songs (which will be their third release).
“You or No One” by Chrissie Hynde
This is recorded for World Café and is the lead track from the debut solo album by The Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde. She was born in Akron, Ohio, and thus completes our Ohio mini theme (unless there are other Ohio connections that I missed – which is entirely likely). The album is called Stockholm and it was released in 2014. Kind of hard to believe that Chrissie had not released a solo album before then.
“Pax Romana” by The Great Game
The Great Game are an international band – their Hometown on Facebook is listed thusly: “Somewhere between south of Spain and North of Scotland, Passing through Prague and Antwerp.” The Great Game is the name of their debut record from which this track is taken.
“Glory, Glory” by Lindsay Ellyn
Lindsay Ellyn’s EP Out of Road is one of my favorite records of the year, and this may will be my favorite song from that record. At a time when it would appear from reading social media that everyone has everything figured out, it is nice to hear a song about good old fashioned doubts.
E2TG: MUSIC/WORDS 