Colorado Spins for January

1)  Halden Wofford & the Hi Beams, Live @ Hodi’s  (C)
2)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco  (C)
3)  Turn 4, What You Do About It  (C)
4)  Lionel Young Band, On Our Way To Memphis  (C)
5)  Longest Day Of the Year, Turn Into the Ground  (C)
6)  SHEL, When the Dragon Came Down  (C)
7)  Honey Gitters, Poor Gitters’ Almanack  (C)
8)  3 Twins Broadband, Whodunit  (C)
9)  Cary Morin, Sing It Louder  (C)
10) Chris Kennison, Simply Steel  (C)
11) Constitution, Wrestling With the Daylight  (C)
12) Great American Taxi, Paradise Lost  (C)
13) John Oates, Mississippi Mile  (C)
14) Cassie Taylor, Blue  (C)
15) Fierce Bad Rabbit, Live and Learn  (C)

Album Spins for January

1)  Various Artists, This One’s For Him: Tribute to Guy Clark
2)  Halden Wofford & the Hi Beams, Live @ Hodi’s  (C)
3)  Black Keys, El Camino
4)  Ruthie Foster, Let It Burn
5)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco  (C)
6)  Turn 4, What You Do About It  (C)
7)  Sarah Jarosz, Follow Me Down
8)  Catie Curtis, Stretch Limousine On Fire
9)  Hayes Carll, KMAG YOYO (and other american stories)
10) Blitzen Trapper, American Goldwing
11) Lionel Young Band, On Our Way To Memphis  (C)
12) Little Willies, For the Good Times
13) Longest Day Of the Year, Turn Into the Ground  (C)
14) Shel, When the Dragon Came Down  (C)
15) Steve Cropper, Dedicated

Song Spins for January

1)  Joan Osborne, “Shake Your Hips”
2)  Black Keys, “Gold On the Ceiling”
3)  Shel, “Ruby Slippers”  (C)
4)  Blitzen Trapper, “Fletcher”
5)  Mayer Hawthorne, “Long Time”
6)  Patti Fiasco, “Nobody’s Girl”  (C)
7)  Ruthie Foster, “Everlasting Light”
8)  Shins, “Simple Song”
9)  Black Keys, “Little Black Submarines”
10) Blind Pilot, “We Are the Tide”

As always, please let us know if you have any questions, comments or suggestions.  Otherwise, we volunteers will just keep doing what we’re doing to the best of our abilities. DJ@krfcfm.org

Americana reviews provided by 88.9FM KRFC’s own Scott Foley, host of Routes and Branches, Saturdays 4-6pm.

>  Gretchen Peters, Hello Cruel World
Peters actually emerged from the Colorado folk scene several years ago, and has since become a celebrated writer, primarily for mainstream country sorts (most successfully penning the frequently misunderstood “Independence Day”  with Martina McBride.  Like Matraca Berg, Peters only occasionally issues albums under her own name, though they’re typically critically lauded.  I would actually liken her music to a storyteller like Tom Russell, with whom Peters released a 2008 album of duets.  She is joined here by musicians Viktor Krauss, Will Kimbrough and Byron House, as well as vocalists Kim Richey and Rodney Crowell, with whom she sings a duet for the album’s highlight.  Gretchen Peters will tour through Denver (and Carbondale) in April.  Recommended.
Produced by:  Doug Lancio, Gretchen Peters and Barry Walsh
Label:  Scarlet Letter
File Under:  Americana

>  Cam Penner, Gypsy Summer
The Canadian singer-songwriter and his 4th album was the subject of a nice piece on NPR recently, ” … his parents owned and ran an illegal roadhouse and his grandfather made and sold his own moonshine within a small Manitoba Mennonite town.”  Penner balances the gruff with the gentle, with lyrics exploring some of the Big Questions and a guitar that could whisper or buzz depending on the song.  Like much Canadian americana, there is a definite folk side to Penner’s music as well.
Produced by:  Cam Penner
Label:  Self
File Under:  Americana

>  Ruthie Foster, Let It Burn
Foster is one of those blessedly difficult to categorize artists, who sounds at home in every genre.  Of the 13 cuts on this new album, she has written only three, with typically wide-ranging covers from writers from Black Keys to Adele, with June Carter and David Crosby in between.  Recorded in New Orleans, Foster’s sixth album (fifth studio) is her most intimate yet, focused on her rich vocals, paired with William Bell on one track and Blind Boys of Alabama on four more.  Fully soulful, from blues to gospel and folk.
Produced by:  John Chelew
Label:  Blue Corn
File Under:  Americana

>  James Low Western Front, Whiskey Farmer
From the band, “The band may reside in the lush climes of Portland, Oregon, but their musical watershed is sourced by Nashville and Bakersfield.  Their sound shuffles, grooves and sweats with the best of them, begging to be played through the in-dash stereo of a pickup truck.”  A couple nice, dusty songs that could merit air love, featuring a couple of Portland’s most respected backing musicians, including producer Coykendall and Lewi Longmire.
Produced by:  Mike Coykendall
Label:  Union Made
File Under:  Americana

>  Kelly Pardekooper, Yonder
Iowa City native Pardekooper recently relocated to sunny Los Angeles, but brings along much of the imagery and spirit  on his sixth album.  He also borrow’s Iowa’s Bo Ramsey to produce the CD and add electric guitar throughout.  To quote No Depression’s website, “Kelly’s new album Yonder is some of the best Americana folk-country-blues-rock-roll-soul-rumble I’ve heard in a while.”  Like Bo’s other friend and cohort, Greg Brown, there is a gruff and bluesy nature to Pardekooper’s voice, as well as his electric guitar.
Produced by:  Bo Ramsey
Label:  Leisure Time
File Under:  Americana

>  Various Artists, This One’s For Him: Tribute To Guy Clark
This remarkable treasure has been years in the making, bringing together a perfect storm of participants to pay tribute to the music of the legendary Texas songwriter.  Absolutely nobody messes around with Clark’s songs, with all contributors offering reverent takes on his masterpieces (rather than “interpretations”).  Where this could come off as stale and boring, you’ll have to trust me that it truly doesn’t.  There are weeks of great tunes for your shows, from artists such as Steve Earle, James McMurtry, Patty Griffin, Joe Ely, Robert Earl Keen, etc etc etc.  One of the best tribute albums issued in recent years and Recommended.  (ps.  every single track is already entered in Spinitron.  If you can’t find it, you’re probably doing it wrong).  (ps, too  Sadly, the promoter only sent us the CDs and poorly printed notes without a proper case.  I’ll try to track one down, but keep an eye open for an unassuming and nondescript package).
Produced by:  Tamara Saviano & Shawn Camp
Label:  Icehouse
File Under:  Americana

Best of 2011 lists are everywhere this time of year. Here’s one reflecting our local tastes in music. As always, we welcome your requests and music tips. Send what you’d like to hear to dj@krfcfm.org, 970-614-KRFC, @KRFCDJ on Twitter or Facebook.com/KRFCradio.

 

COLORADO ALBUM SPiNS for 2011

1) John-Alex Mason, Juke Joint Thunderclap (C)
2) Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore, Saints & Sinners (actually released in July ’10) (C)
3) Finnders & Youngberg, FY5 (C)
**KRFC Presents Finnders & Youngberg Jan 5th @ Byllynsgate Ball. more >>>
4) Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco (C)
5) Devotchka, 100 Lovers (C)
6) Fierce Bad Rabbit, Spools Of Thread (C)
7) Musketeer Gripweed, Dyin’ Day (C)
8) Halden Wofford & the Hi Beams, Sinners & Saints (released Aug ’10) (C)
9) Big Head Todd & the Monsters, Big Head Blues Club (C)
10) Holler, Gratitude (C)
11) Bonnie & the Clydes, Bonnie & the Clydes (C)
12) Grant Gordy, Grant Gordy (released April ’10) (C)
13) Danielle Ate the Sandwich, Two Bedroom Apartment (released July ’10) (C)
14) Wendy Woo Band, Austerity (C)
15) Cary Morin, Sing It Louder (C)
16) Lionel Young Band, On Our Way To Memphis (C)
17) Nathaniel Rateliff, In Memory Of Loss (released March ’10) (C)
18) Great American Taxi, Paradise Lost (C)
19) John Oates, Mississippi Mile (C)
20) John Common, Beautiful Empty (C)

 

ALL ALBUM SPiNS for 2011

1) Decemberists, King Is Dead
2) John-Alex Mason, Juke Joint Thunderclap (C)
3) Robbie Robertson, How To Become Clairvoyant
4) Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore, Saints & Sinners (actually released in July ’10) (C)
5) Finnders & Youngberg, FY5 (C)
6) Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco (C)
7) Devotchka, 100 Lovers (C)
8) Fierce Bad Rabbit, Spools Of Thread (C)
9) Tedeschi Trucks Band, Revelator
10) Musketeer Gripweed, Dyin’ Day (C)
11) Paul Simon, So Beautiful Or So What
12) Robert Plant, Band Of Joy (another 2010 release)
13) Various Artists, Rave On Buddy Holly
14) Emmylou Harris, Hard Bargain
15) Hayes Carll, KMAG YOYO
16) Hot Tuna, Steady As She Goes
17) Halden Wofford & the Hi Beams, Sinners & Saints (released Aug ’10) (C)
18) Middle Brother, Middle Brother
19) Imelda May, Mayhem
20) Marcia Ball, Roadside Attractions
21) Fleet Foxes, Helplessness Blues
22) Dave Alvin, Eleven Eleven
23) Big Head Todd & the Monsters, Big Head Blues Club (C)
24) Holler, Gratitude (C)
25) Lindi Ortega, Little Red Boots

ALL SONG SPiNS for 2011

1) Middle Brother, “Portland”
2) John-Alex Mason, “Gone So Long” (C)
3) Patti Fiasco, “Nobody’s Girl” (C)
4) Devotchka, “100 Other Lovers” (C)
5) Hayes Carll, “KMAG YOYO”
6) Secret Sisters, “Big River”
7) John-Alex Mason, “Riding On” (C)
8) Robbie Robertson, “He Don’t Live Here No More”
9) Fleet Foxes, “Helplessness Blues”
10) Jessica Lea Mayfield, “Blue Skies Again”
11) Musketeer Gripweed, “River Callin’” (C)
12) Robert Plant, “Angel Dance”
13) Civil Wars, “Barton Hollow”
14) Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore, “Keep It Clean” (C)
15) Hot Tuna, “Angel Of Darkness”
16) Paul Simon, “Dazzling Blue”
17) Decemberists, “Calamity Song”
18) Finnders & Youngberg, “Red Mountain Pass” (C)
19) Florence & the Machine, “Not Fade Away”
20) Holler, “Gratitude” (C)

>  Longest Day of the Year, Turn Into the Ground     COLORADO MUSiC!

Very strong alt.country debut CD from a Boulder band of whom Greensky Bluegrass blurbs, “It’s not every day that you hear a band that is able to preserve the best of Americana while bringing a whole new sound to the game.”  Guitarist and vocalist “t. mule” wields one of the gruffest voices in recent memory, contrasted with a smart and witty lyrical touch that works to lift TLDOTY above the alt.country fray.  Glimpses of blues, grass and jam throughout make this an impressive and recommended debut.  The band will unleash their CD in Fort Collins on the 31st at an Avogadro’s Number show with the Honey Gitters.
Produced by:  Jason McDaniel & TLDOTY
Label: Mulewax
File Under:  Americana / Local

 

 

>  Jesse Manley, Devil’s Red  COLORADO ARTiST!

Just goes to show you …  I received this fine album a couple months ago.  It lived on my dusty old desk until this week, when I decided to clear things away.  I sorted CDs a bit, coming across a few that I wanted to re-preview, just in case.  Like Jesse Manley’s fine album.  Manley is a talented Denver folk/pop musician, with a voice somewhere between Jeff Finlin and Colin Meloy, and a musical sensibility not unlike those two.  Manley and his producer Willey play just about every instrument on the album, with nice arrangements featuring occasional mando, banjo, lap steel and “Baldwin Fun Machine”.  Why I didn’t respond to this CD immediately I might never know.  But here it is now, and it deserves your attention (prob’ly sooner than later).
Produced by:  Dave Willey w/Jesse Manley
Label:  Self
File Under:  Rock / Local

 

 

>  Crags, Big Divide   COLORADO ARTiST

An interesting trio from Durango that manages to bring to mind bands like Missing Persons or Motels as filtered through a contemporary garage ethic.  Singer and songwriter and guitarist Tracy Ford wields an effectively deadpan voice, appropriate for the band’s subtle sense of humor.  The album’s production adds nothing to the barebones guitar / bass / drum lineup, lending to the project’s definite DIY aesthetic.  Depending on the light in which it’s all viewed, listeners might also detect a slight “cowpunk” influence, especially on the title track.
Produced by:  Tracy Ford
Label:  The Crags
File Under:  Local / Rock

 

 

>  Tom Hagerman, Idle Creatures  COLORADO ARTiST

>  Tom Hagerman, Water Music

Devotchka’s multi-instrumental wizard Tom Hagerman is releasing these two instrumental albums simultaneously (just to make everyone else feel lazy and unproductive).  While they’re both truly impressive works, Water Music is certainly more experimental and will have more of a difficult time finding its way into our playlist (nevertheless, I thought to add it to our collection just because … ).  You’ll likely hear hints of Hagerman’s contributions to Devotchka’s sound on Idle Creatures, where he primarily sticks to violin.  Nevertheless, it’s not a Devotchka album, being more of a collection of chamber-pop string arrangements, spiced liberally with more exotic world influences.  It’s actually beautifully done stuff, typically short pieces for small ensemble, but accessible enough for anyone who appreciates acoustic string music. There’s a definite element of the macabre to Hagerman’s work, as evidenced in titles such as “Happy Music For Sad Children” or “Granny Old Wound”.  Pieces that I’ve bulletted might even fit into a Mix show (please preview though).  Recommended (Idle Creatures).
Produced by:  Adam Selzer
Label:  Tom Hagerman
File Under:  Local / Classical?

 

 

>  Poison Oaks, Pine

Leader and fiddler Laura Cortese calls this project a “folkestra”, crowded with 16 contributors.  In addition to Cortese and her fiddle, there are members of bands Uncle Earl, Small Ponds, Joy Kills Sorrow, Crooked Still and more.  Their music could best be described as indie-folk, with a strong emphasis on mass vocals and bright instrumentation.  This 5-track EP takes the classically trained acoustic sounds of bands like Crooked Still and adds a respectful bit of indie noise to the proceedings.  It’s just the kind of music you might imagine Dennis playing on his fine Monday Afternoon Mix (hint, hint).
Produced by:  Matt Malikowski
Label:  Poison Oaks
File Under:  Rock

 

 

>  Candi Staton, Who’s Hurting Now?

Despite soul and gospel singer-songwriter Staton’s impressive resume, she has been relatively inactive over the past two decades, aside from a series of gospel recordings.  Originally released in Europe in 2009, Who’s Hurting was never released stateside until now, owing to label politics.  Produced by Lambchop’s Mark Nevers, it is an excellent collection of rootsy southern soul and americana, featuring some worthy covers and a couple Staton originals.  Tracks span the spectrum, from a reinterpreted tune Staton cowrote with Groove Armada to covers of Bonnie “Prince” Billy, Chris Smither and more.  There’s even a moving take on Mary Gauthier’s acclaimed “Mercy Now”.  Staton has been writing and recording since 1969, and it’s nice to finally see this album released domestically.  Recommended.
Produced by:  Mark Nevers
Label:  Honest Jons
File Under:  Soul

 

 

>  Dale Watson, Sun Sessions

Dale tells the story of how he was heading for a show in Memphis, and placed a call to the venue en route.  When the venue told Dale that they did not have him on their schedule, he decided to head over to the legendary Sun Studios with his Texas Two and record an album.  He goes on to relate how he wrote six songs on the way to Sun.  Everything here is pure Dale, so he does no covers, but explains how he “channels the heart and soul of the hillbilly / rockabilly / rock ‘n roll universe” on his new recording.  True to the tradition, these songs are typically sub-3 minute deals, with a couple not even reaching two.
Produced by:  Dale Watson
Label:  Red House
File Under:  Americana

 

 

>  Michelle McAfee, Up In the Air

Singer-songwriter / guitarist McAfee actually grew up in Nederland, and cut her musical teeth here as a young woman, before heading to Nashville for a successful career as an inhouse songwriter (and then to Oregon).  McAfee brings some of those tunes to her debut release, produced by the stellar slide guitarist David Jacobs-Strain, a fellow Oregonian who also plays and sings throughout.  Like Anne McCue or Kathleen Edwards, McAfee is a worthy guitarist, with an obvious lyrical gift.  There is a nice interplay between McAfee’s twang-friendly voice and Jacobs-Strain’s slide on these tunes, which rarely climb above a gentle pace.  One might find a comparison between this album and the recent collaboration between Kelly Joe Phelps and Corinne West.
Produced by:  David Jacobs-Strain
Label:  Awake Now
File Under:  Americana

 

 

>  Amelia White, Beautiful and Wild

This is the Brooklyn artist’s fifth CD of gritty, graceful alt.country.  I’ve been a fan of White’s for several years, mapping her somewhere between Eliza Gilkyson’s unexpectedly expressive voice and Lucinda Williams’ ability to write about the cracks in life’s sidewalks.  I’d also compare her to Alejandro Escovedo, in an effort to escape the gender trap when it comes to comparisons.  Like Escovedo, White’s music can be tough and aggressive, bringing to mind urban scapes and life’s rough edges.  Especially like Gilkyson’s later material, however, she can achieve a balance by telling these stories in a beautiful voice.  Extra points for an adventurous take on Roxy Music’s “More Than This”!  Recommended.
Produced by:  Marco Giovino
Label:  Amelia White
File Under:  Americana

 

 

>  Sugar & the Hi-Lows, Sugar & the Hi-Lows

Sugar & the Hi-Lows are actually made up of two successful Nashville singer-songwriters, Trent Dabbs and Amy Stroup.  The results add a soulful, slightly retro R&B feel to their americana, with Dabbs and Stroup sharing lead atop a bed of Dabbs’ tasty electric guitar.  In light of obvious comparisons, Sugar & the Hi-Lows are more loud fun than Civil Wars, and less self-consciously clever than She & Him.  One would hope that this very fun exercise proves to be more than a one-off side project for the artists involved.
Produced by:  Jeremy Bose
Label:  Milk Glass Music
File Under:  Americana

 

 

>  Folk Uke, Reincarnation

This odd album is the product of the collaboration between a handful of progeny from renowned parents.  The primary work is performed by Amy Nelson (Willie’s girl) and Cathy Guthrie (Arlo’s daughter), with additional contributions from Shooter Jennings and Casey Kristofferson (Kris’ offspring).  Yes, both Amy and Cathy do play uke throughout, but it’s their deep, backwoods harmonies that carry this release, along with their truly unusual sense of humor as demonstrated on nearly every quirky cut (altho it seems to have been toned down a bit since their debut EP that featured cuts like “Shit Makes the Flowers Grow” and “Motherfucker Got Fucked Up”).  Despite the emphasis on simply having a good time, these are talented folks, with beautiful, classic voices.  Dads Willie and Arlo actually appear on a “dueling guitars” solo on one cut.
Produced by:  Abe Guthrie & Folk Uke
Label:  Folk Uke
File Under:  Americana

 

New to Our Holiday Shelves  (briefly)

 

>  She & Him, A Very She & Him Christmas

This holiday collaboration between Zooey Deschanel and M Ward undoubtedly fulfills the sweet quotient for your winter season.  The retro spirit that has dominated their work together is very present here, especially in Deschanel’s vocals and Ward’s guitar work.  Ward even get a lead vocal on one cut, and a duet vocal on “Baby It’s Cold Outside”.  While standards rule the setlist, I appreciate the inclusion of a couple Brian Wilson originals.  Among my favorite holiday offerings for the year.
Produced by:  M Ward
Label:  Merge
File Under:  Holiday

 

>  Various Artists, This Warm December Vol 2

Toasty holiday treats from Jack Johnson and his labelmates from Brushfire Records.  Featuring artists such as G Love, Matt Costa, Zee Avi and Johnson himself, some on originals, some on less originals.
Produced by:  Various
Label:  Brushfire
File Under:  Holiday

 

>  Mark O’Connor, An Appalachian Christmas

A diversity of string-related things, including some bluegrass, some country and a bit of classical.  Actually, a nice assortment, with vocalists ranging (widely) from Jane Monheit to Renee Fleming (and Alison Krauss being all feathery in between).  Mark O’Connor’s versatility is impressive.
Produced by:  Various
Label:  OMAC
File Under:  Holiday

 

>  Vanessa Peters, Christmas We Hoped For

Texas-based artist does quite a nice job on an album that mixes trad with originals.  Peters has a voice that works well with holiday stuff, and which there’s a good amount of trad here, Peters’ arrangements are thoughtful and hardly rote.
Produced by:  Rip Rowan & Vanessa Peters
Label:  Vanessa Peters
File Under:  Holiday

 

>  Mandy Barnett, Winter Wonderland

Singer Barnett has had a relatively minor country music career, and is perhaps best known as the voice behind the stage production Always … Patsy Cline.  These holiday standards were obviously inspired by artists like Cline and producer Owen Bradley, with classic arrangements and vocals.  It marks Barnett’s first solo recording since 1999.  As producer and voice behind Winter Wonderland, Barnett certainly has the sound down, bringing to mind a definite time in the history of country music.  Her voice is so evocative, and given the early buzz that surrounded her as a youngster, one might wonder why she hasn’t recorded more to date.
Produced by:  Mandy Barnett
Label:  Rounder
File Under:  Holiday

 

>  Donna Ulisse, You Cannot Stay Here / You Will Be Delivered

Bluegrass vocalist Ulisse offers this 2-song CD, a promissory note towards a full album to come (some day).  Both songs are originals, and beautifully well done, addressing characters in the Bible’s manger story.
Produced by:  Keith Sewell
Label:  Hadley Music Group
File Under:  Holiday

 

 

>  Skaggs Family, Skaggs Family Christmas Volume 2

A CD / DVD  package, only half of which will probably be of use to programmers.  Say what you want about Ricky Skaggs, he is a true professional.  These are fine arrangements of contemporary and classic holiday tunes, mostly with a bluegrass or country slant.  While Skaggs himself is everywhere, he allows his family to take lead on several tracks, and they seem to have inherited much of Ricky’s golden touch.
Produced by:  Father Skaggs
Label:  Skaggs Family Records
File Under:  Holiday

 

 

>  Michel LeGrand, Noel! Noel!! Noel!!!

An odd project that features conductor Michel LeGrand and his orchestra performing “AN ALBUM OF THE GREATEST CHRISTMAS SONGS” with a curious assortment of vocalists.  Jamie Cullum is appropriately upbeat on “Let It Snow” and Teddy Thompson and Rufus Wainwright carry a lush take on “White Christmas”.  Carla Bruni, Mika and Madeleine Peyroux show up and practice their French.  Out of nowhere comes Iggy Pop, whose “Little Drummer Boy” makes Bob Dylan’s manic holiday album from last year sound heavenly.
Produced by:  Sylvain Tallet
Label:  Verve
File Under:  Holiday

 

 

>  Various Artists, My Favorite Gifts

A fairly non-traditional benefit album from the folks from North Carolina’s Ramseur Records.  Matter of fact, there’s nary a standard here among the tracks offered by David Wax Museum, Jessica Lea Mayfield, Avett Brothers and more.  Tunes are universally rootsy and a bit understated, with a couple cuts not necessarily even obviously holiday songs.  A good alternative for programmers who would like to acknowledge the season without breaking out the jingle bells and the ho-ho-hos.
Produced by:  Various
Label:  Ramseur
File Under:  Holiday

Albums reviewed by KRFC’s own Scott Foley, host of Routes and Branches.

Read more >>>

Colorado Spins for November

1)  Constitution, Wrestling With Daylight  (C)
2)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, Live and Learn  (C)
3)  Lionel Young Band, On Our Way To Memphis  (C)
4)  Honey Gitters, Poor Gitters’ Almanack  (C)
5)  Great American Taxi, Paradise Lost  (C)
6)  John-Alex Mason, Jook Joint Thunderclap  (C)
7)  Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore, Saints & Sinners  (C)
8)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco  (C)
9)  Cary Morin, Sing It Louder  (C)
10)  Cassie Taylor, Blue  (C)
11)  Finnders & Youngberg, FY5  (C)
12)  Devotchka, 100 Lovers  (C)
13)  Holler, Gratitude  (C)
14)  Longest Day of the Year, Turn Into the Ground  (C)
15)  Turn 4, What You Do About It  (C)

Album Spins for November

1)  Constitution, Wrestling With the Daylight  (C)
2)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, Live and Learn  (C)
3)  Lionel Young Band,  On Our Way To Memphis  (C)
4)  Tom Waits, Bad As Me
5)  Steve Cropper, Dedicated
6)  Crooked Still, Friends Of Fall
7)  Honey Gitters, Poor Gitters’ Almanack  (C)
8)  Maria Muldaur, Steady Love
9)  Pieta Brown, Mercury
10)  Ry Cooder, Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down
11)  Great American Taxi, Paradise Lost  (C)
12)  John-Alex Mason, Jook Joint Thunderclap  (C)
13)  Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore, Saints & Sinners  (C)
14)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco  (C)
15)  Wilco, Whole Love
16)  Blitzen Trapper, American Goldwing
17)  Carolyn Wonderland, Peace Meal
18)  Chris Kennison, Simply Steel  (C)
19)  Gillian Welch, Harrow & the Harvest
20)  Blind Pilot, We Are the Tide

Song Spins for November

1)  Crooked Still, “We Can Work It Out”
2)  Deer Tick, “The Bump”
3)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, “Rich Man”  (C)
4)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, “You”  (C)
5)  Holler, “Gratitude”  (C)
6)  John-Alex Mason, “My Old Lonesome Home”  (C)
7)  Middle Brother, “Portland”
8)  Sallie Ford & the Sound Outside, “Poison Milk”
9)  Tom Waits, “Satisfied”
10)  Blind Pilot, “Keep You Right”

Lists compiled by KRFC’s own Scott Foley, host of Routes & Beanches. For more lists visit his blog >>>

or check out The Colorado Sound blog from KRFC’s own Chris K. >>>

Bluegrass albums reviewed by KRFC’s own Andrea Bradstreet, co-host of Rocky Mountain Breakdown.
CROWE BROTHERS
BRIDGING THE GAP
RURAL RHYTHM
Comments: This CD is aptly titled because the Crowe Brothers (Wayne and Josh) combine the traditional sound of brother duets with a modern sensibility and influence. The vocals are superb reminding the listener of the legendary Louvin Brothers, Jim & Jesse, and the Whitstein Brothers sound without being imitative. The material is warm and diverse at the same time. There is a feeling of ease while listening to this recording. Producers: Josh & Wayne Crowe, Steve Thomas and Steve Sutton. Highly recommended.

THE MISSY WERNER BAND
THREE KINDS OF LONESOME
MISSY WERNER MUSIC
Comments: This is the second recording we have received from Missy and it has a fuller sound than the first. Her band is great and it is nice to hear this artist record with her touring band. The material has the traditional song structure and instrumentation, but has a contemporary style that makes this CD fresh. Missy has a wonderful voice and she performs 2 duets, one with Frank Solivan II and one with Chris Jones. Both are very enjoyable. The last 2 cuts are tributes to the Lynn Morris Band and the Bluegrass Cardinals. Producer: Jon Weisberger. Highly recommended.

BEN LEWIS
BLACKBEARD’S DREAM
BEN LEWIS
Comments: Ben Lewis is from Manitou Springs, CO and describes this release as “Progressive Bluegrass from the Subconscious” and “a new album of psychedelic progressive Bluegrass”. I get the progressive part, but not the psychedelic influence. But, I was in my 20‚s during the 1970‚s. Nuff said. Ben has gathered several other Colorado Artists to record this CD of all original material. He is an exceptional instrumentalist focusing on the fiddle. This recording debuted at #13 on the Colorado Roots Music Radio Airplay chart the week of its release. This release is a very worthwhile self-produced effort by Ben. Highly recommended.
Chris K had added this as a private CD and since I think it should be in our library, I’ve re-designated it as Bluegrass in Spinitron. It still has the LOCAL flag.

LAURIE LEWIS
SKIPPIN‚ AND FLYIN‚
SPRUCE & MAPLE MUSIC
Comments: Laurie Lewis has produced a tribute to Bill Monroe focused more on the man, than just on his music. She has blended original tunes with more well-known material, but tweaks those tunes to suit the recording. Laurie is an incredibly prolific songwriter and performer. Her ability to choose songs that showcase her talents and those of the band is second to none. The supporting musicians are long time friends of Laurie‚s and you can hear it in the songs. She has one of the most beautiful and expressive voices in Bluegrass music today. Her range is phenomenal on this CD. Highly recommended.

BEARFOOT
AMERICAN STORY
COMPASS RECORDS
Comments: Bearfoot seems to re-invent the sound of the band with each new release. This CD has a fresher sound and that observation may be the result of Nora Jane Struthers‚ arrival. Her smooth, lovely voice and incredible songwriting talents blend beautifully with the rest of the band. The band sounds more cohesive without being monotonous. This recording has all original band material that ranges from very traditional sounding tunes to very progressive tracks. That makes this CD especially suited for Morning Mix shows. Some of the cuts have a very tasteful and understated use of percussion that is not distracting from the rest of the song. Producer: Brent Truitt. Highly recommended.

MONROEVILLE
MONROEVILLE
MONROEVILLE RECORDS
Comments: Monroeville is a group of musicians who have blended traditional sensibilities with contemporary style. The talent throughout is superb and the material is a mix of lesser known tunes and original material. This music isn‚t your Grandpa‚s Bluegrass. There are a few cuts that are recommended for DAY MIX shows and they are marked as such. Cia Cherryholmes (formerly of Cherryholmes) lends her perfect vocals to 2 cuts. Producers: Jim VanCleve and Monroeville. Highly recommended

PAUL WILLIAMS & THE VICTORY TRIO
SATISFIED
REBEL
Comments: Paul Williams & the Victory Trio have stuck to what they do best ˆ Bluegrass Goxpel. The material is traditional gospel and so is the presentation. Paul Williams is really somewhat of legend in Bluegrass circles and even though he is in his 70‚s, his voice is clear, strong, and spot on. He plays a mean mandolin too. Producer: Paul Williams. Highly recommended for Bluegrass Gospel lovers.

SNYDER FAMILY BAND
STAGES
MOUNTAIN ROADS RECORDINGS
Comments: This recording is aptly titled “Stages” because it sounds like this family band has made a significant leap in their talent offering. Samantha does much of the lead singing. She is also a fine fiddle player ˆ she is only 12 years old. Zeb is 16, sings lead and harmony, plays guitar and mandolin and takes an occasional turn on bass from dad, Bud. Laine (Mom) sings some harmony vocals. Samantha and Zeb have voices that are solid and as they mature, their vocals will be equal to their considerable instrumental talent. The real strength of this recording is the incredible instrumental talents of Samantha and Zeb. They sound like seasoned veterans on their chosen instruments. Their intonation, flow, and mastery belie their young years. Producer: Snyder Family Band. Highly recommended.

DAVID PARMLEY & CONTINENTAL DIVIDE
CHURCH HOUSE HYMNS VOLUME II
DP&CD RECORDS
Comments: David Parmley & Continental Divide have compiled a wonderful all Gospel recording of mostly familiar tunes. The singing is pure and expressive. The CD is dedicated to David‚s Great Grandfather who donated land for a church that is still in use today in Wayne County, Kentucky. The roots of Bluegrass Gospel music are presented in a touching and sincere way. Producer: David Parmley & Continental Divide. Recommended for those of you who enjoy genuine Bluegrass Gospel.

ETHAN HUGHES
SEARCHING FOR A HOME
PATUXENT
Comments: Ethan Hughes is an incredibly gifted Dobro player and has a wonderful voice as well. He wrote 2 of the tunes on this CD. Ethan was at KRFC when Darren Beachley & the Legends of the Potomac came to do Live @ Lunch. Mike Auldridge couldn‚t travel at that time and Ethan stepped in during that tour. So, his credentials are quite solid for a 20 year old. The songs are very good and this CD is highly recommended. Producer: Tom Mindte

IVAN ROSENBERG & THE FOGGY HOGTOWN BOYS
THE HOGTOWN SESSIONS
VOLE-O-TONE RECORDS
Comments: Ivan Rosenberg (from Washington state) has teamed up with the Foggy Hogtown Boys (Canada) to record songs that take you on a journey through the early times of Bluegrass music. The sound is definitely a bit organic, but not rustic. There are a few originals by Ivan and many tunes that are familiar. The last cut on the recording is an ode to “honey buckets” so you may want to preview it before you decide to play it or not. Recommended. Producer: Ivan Rosenberg

JUNIOR SISK & RAMBLERS CHOICE
THE HEART OF A SONG
REBEL
Comments: This recording is a slice of expertly played and soulfully sung music carved straight from the center of tradition. The material includes a few standards, 4 originals, and lesser-known songs. The singing is superb and the drive of Jason Davis‚s banjo ties everything together in one excellent recording. Producers: Wes Easter and Ramblers Choice. Highly recommended.
DALE ANN BRADLEY
SOMEWHERE SOUTH OF CRAZY
COMPASS
Comments: Dale Ann Bradley has won the International Bluegrass Music Award for Best Female Vocalist 3 times and this recording is a perfect example as to why. Her voice can be powerful, tender, expressive, and thrilling. She wrote 3 of the tracks too. She has found a home at Compass records and Alison Brown is the producer. Dale Ann stays incredibly busy with touring with her own band and singing on several other recordings. Steve Gulley is a favorite singing partner and her back up band on this recording includes Steve, Sierra Hull, Pam Tillis, and Stuart Duncan as well as Alison Brown on Banjo. Highly recommended.

LEE MARCUS
GRANDPA‚S POND
LEE MARCUS MUSIC
Comments: Lee Marcus was the banjo player for Wayne Taylor & Appaloosa and has stretched out to make a fine CD. I didn‚t get much information with the CD, but guests include Cia Cherryholmes, Jim VanCleve (Mountain Heart), Josh Schilling (Mountain Heart), Christian Ward, Wyatt Rice, Aaron Ramsey, and Jason Moore (Mountail Heart). The material‚s credits are not provided so I don‚t know whether there are originals on this recording. Producer: Lee Marcus. Recommended.

FRANK WAKEFIELD
A TRIBUTE TO BILL MONROE
PATUXENT
Comments: Frank Wakefield doesn‚t just admire Bill Monroe ˆ he studies the Father of Bluegrass. Frank has put together a fine group of traditional Bluegrass performers to present his tribute to Bill Monroe. Audey Blaylock and Tom Ewing (former Bluegrass Boy) do most of the lead singing and Michael Cleveland shines on fiddle. The tunes are all familiar and performed in the style they were originally performed. The liner notes and pictures are especially nice. Produced by Tom Mindte. Highly recommended.

HANK BOWMAN
LONELY
HANK BOWMAN MUSIC
Comments: Hank Bowman is a singer songwriter and he wrote 9 of the tracks on this recording. His lyrics take you along on journeys to loneliness and beyond. The talent is solid all the way around. The rest of the tracks are songs written by Shawn Camp and Paul Craft, Sting, Peter Rowan and others. This debut CD from Mr. Bowman is a good effort and exposes his songwriting skills to the listener. Producer: Russell Johnson. Recommended.

C.W. MUNDY
ROAD TRIP: CROSSING BORDERS
MOON SURF RECORDS
Comments: C.W. Mundy is an artist (fine arts painter) who is also a fine musician and songwriter. All tracks are originals and quite diverse. Twelve of the 16 cuts are instrumentals and they are in different styles. The musicians and vocalists on this CD are great and really bring out the unique material. Some of the artists are familiar to Bluegrass fans including, Randy Kohrs, Scott Vestal, Jim VanCleve, Jeff Autry and Alice Vestal (on vocals). There are some cuts that are highly recommended for Day Mix shows and they are marked on the CD. Producers: C.W. Mundy and Scott Vestal. Highly recommended.

MOODY BLUEGRASS
TWO∑MUCH LOVE: A NASHVILLE CELEBRATION OF THE MOODY BLUES
BUNNY RAE RECORDS
This CD is NOT a compilation.
Comments: David Harvey (formerly of Colorado Springs) produced the first Moody Bluegrass CD and has taken lots of time to produce this second recording. The first Moody Bluegrass CD was mainly different bands doing covers of the Moody Blues songs. “Two∑Much Love” is entirely different and is much better. There is a core group of musicians with guest singers. Members of the original Moody Blues appear on this recording as well. Tim O‚Brien does a great job of lead singing on “Dear Diary”. The material that was made famous by the Moody Blues is presented in a style that incorporates Bluegrass instruments and arrangements, but doesn‚t sound hokey. Day Mix DJs take note: this CD is fun too! Highly recommended.

Rock & Americana albums reviewed for KRFC by Scott Foley, host of Routes and Branches.

You Me & Apollo, Cards With Cheats

FoCo resident Brent Cowles is basically a one-man band on this 2nd CD under the You Me & Apollo moniker.  Out in July (and available for a free Bandcamp download), this is one of my favorite CO releases of the year. Cowles writes far beyond his experience, with a voice and style akin to M Ward, or a dustier Brett Dennen with just a touch of soul.  Like Nathaniel Rateliff, much of Cards is quiet and understated, only to explode occasionally into Cowles’ powerful vocals and full band.  Despite the namedropping, it’s refreshingly original stuff that deserves a wider listenership.
Produced by: dunno
Label: River Jones Music
File Under: Local / Rock / Americana (COLORADO MUSIC)

 

Constitution, Wrestling With the Daylight

This Fort Collins quartet calls its brand of music “americana soul”.  Driven by Darren Radach’s mandolin and Matt Mahern’s soulful vocals, the songs on Constitution’s new release are quick to like and hard to forget.  Mahern’s writing has a quick humor, with frequently clever turns of phrase and an unexpected outlook.  There’s an ease and comfort that carries through this entire recording, everything laid-back and friendly.  Also featured are Ben Prytherch on acoustic bass and Peter Knudson on percussion, and Greta Cornett adds some trumpet to my favorite track.
Produced by: Darren Radach
Label: Constitution
File Under: Americana / Local  (COLORADO MUSIC)

 

Honey Gitters, Poor Gitters’ Almanack

The Fort Collins band’s second CD of grass-inspired jamming will grow quickly on listeners’ ears.  While a couple tracks stick closer to bluegrass conventions, the 4-piece enjoys their departures, adding electric guitars, drums and extended instrumental breakdowns to their mix. Even a take on Louisiana-ish sounds.  Especially worthy are Greg Simms’ electric guitar arrangements, which define the Gitters’ sound on this new CD.
Produced by:
Label: Honey Gitters
File Under:  Americana / Local  (COLORADO MUSIC)

 

Kentucky Parlor Pickers, Barn Burner

You might not guess by their moniker, but this edgy string band trio is actually from Denver.  Their debut CD has been out for a couple months, but is new to our library.  Like Legendary Shack Shakers, the Pickers have a definite edge to their alt.country, as well as a welcome sense of humor.
Produced by: Mark Thomas
Label: Self
File Under: Americana / Local  (COLORADO MUSIC)

 

——–

 

Doop and the Inside Outlaws, What Am I Supposed To Do?

To add insult to injury, this Detroit collective’s second CD was called Everett Belcher …  Anyhow, Doop is Don Duprie, who has drawn together a loose group of Detroit roots types for what is actually a fine effort.  I suppose this could best be termed “working class roots rock”, blue collar stuff with a nice sense of a tune.  Think Mellencamp a’la Rain On the Scarecrow with well-done pedal steel throughout.  Especially nice is a duet Doop does with singer Alison Lewis on “Not Too Late”.
Produced by: Jim Diamond
Label: Blood River
File Under: Americana

 

 

Pert Near Sandstone, Paradise Hop

Is there something in thewater of the Land of 1,000 Lakes that makes them enjoy their bluegrass hard and fast?  The St Paul quartet’s fourth studio album will find a place in the heart of fans of Duluth’s Trampled By Turtles.  All four members play and sing, populating each song with fiddle, banjo, mandolin and other trad favorites but flitting between bluegrass and something faster and looser, often within the same tune.  A couple trad songs, but mostly original (in all senses).  Whereas earlier releases might’ve sounded less consistent, Paradise Hop tightens it all up nicely in terms of writing, play and production.  A good number of playable tracks here (one of those that I couldn’t stop marking up …).
Produced by:  Matthew Zimmerman
Label: Pert Near Sandstone
File Under: Americana

 

 

Damn Quails, Down the Hatch

Last week we debuted a new CD by Mike McClure, on his new 598 Records label.  Here, McClure produces the promising debut recording by Gabriel Marshall and Bryon White, the Damn Quails.  Like much of Oklahoma’s red dirt country scene, Damn Quails’ brand of americana is well-produced and arranged, mid-tempo pieces spiced with fiddle, harmonica, pedal steel and more.  Both gentlemen trade off lead vocals for a bit of variety, and blend well together when harmonizing.
Produced by:  Mike McClure and Joe Hardy
Label:  598 Records
File Under: Americana

 

 

Hoots & Hellmouth, Salt

The Philadelphia band’s fourth album (counting an EP earlier this year) somewhat abandons the “stomp” which characterized their earlier work.  Also, the man known as “Hellmouth” has left to become a school teacher (Mr Hellmouth, I assume).  With a more expansive sound and a couple new group members, there remains a nice roots element to the band’s music.  There’s also a bit more emphasis on songcraft and lyrics, with the vocals of Sean Hoots more out front and center.  Will likely appeal to fans of “neckbeard” bands such as Dawes, Blitzen Trapper, Mumford & Sons, etc.
Produced by:  Hoots, et al.
Label: Hoots & Hellmouth
File Under: Rock

 

Kitty Daisy & Lewis, Smoking In Heaven

Third album from the NW London siblings with a thing for antique instruments, equipment and sounds.  When these three talented Durhams were younger, there was a novelty to their act.  Now that they’re a bit older, they’re able to rise above the novelty status, writing most of their own tunes and handling all but a few instrumental duties.  The trio roams through a musical landscape of blues, jazz, boogie-woogie and rockabilly.  trading lead vocals and songwriting responsibilities.  There remains a definite retro quality, but with artists like Adele, Duffy and Nick 13 making strides there’s also something relevant to KD&L.
Produced by: KD&L Durham
Label: Verve
File Under: Rock

 

 

Zoe Boekbinder, Darling Specimens

I like this blurb from her website:  “Zoe has an affinity for mason jars, rusted metal, Dolly Parton, sea creatures, botanical drawings, dilapidated barns, chocolate, avocados, broken hearts, port wine, and the open road. She went to clown school and wants to own a farm someday. Her last name is pronounced “book-binder”, like a person who binds books.”  Doesn’t tell you much expect that there’s quirk aplenty here.  Boekbinder has played with Dresden Dolls and Ditty Bops, which won’t surprise a listener.  A more helpful bit from her site:  “a heartrending and tousled collage of auxiliary percussion, haunted horns, theremins, and strings.”  Both charming and a sinister.
Produced by: several folks …
Label: Extropian
File Under: Rock

 

 

Various Artists, Lost Notebooks of Hank Williams

Like any other self-respecting legend, when Hank passed so many years ago, he left a briefcase full of lyrics in his wake.  With help from Bob Dylan, producer Mary Martin selected a dozen of these unfinished tunes and paired them with a dozen songwriters who completed the songs.  Contributors run the gamut from Dylan to Lucinda and Merle, from Dylan (Jakob) to Levon Helm and Sheryl Crow.  All approach their respective songs with a reverence that makes this a very country-leaning record.  While I’ve tagged a couple standout cuts, it’s all very playable.
Produced by: Mary Martin
Label: Columbia
File Under: Americana

 

 

Deer Tick, Divine Providence

Deer Tick has always teetered on the brink of a full-raging kegger.  On Divine Providence, the band abandons any pretense to songwriterly dignity and dives into the beer-drenched chaos.  Perhaps Middle Brother enforced a bit too much discipline for John J McCauley III, whose voice has always been ragged but here gives Shane McGowan a run for his money.  Having said that, it’s not an entirely negative thing since Deer Tick’s abandon has always been a big part of their charm.  Like McGowan or Paul Westerberg, an unhinged McCauley can still write a great song.  It’s only unfortunate that a couple of the better tracks feature prominent obscenity.
Produced by: Adam Landry and Justin Collins
Label: Partisan
File Under: Rock

 

 

Mike McClure, Fifty Billion

One of the bigger names on what was Oklahoma’s Red Dirt scene, McClure is probably better known as a producer for bands such as Cross Canadian Ragweed.  While he began his recording career as a member of The Great Divide, he has nurtured a solo career over the space of nearly a dozen albums, most a bit more polished and varied than much Red Dirt fare.  On this new effort, McClure often comes off sounding a bit like Fred Eaglesmith, albeit with layered vocals and horns here and there.
Produced by: Joe Hardy
Label: 598 Records
File Under: Americana

 

 

Honey Honey, Billy Jack

Just two folks:  Suzanne Santo on lead vox, violin and banjo, and Ben Jaffe on seamless harmony, guitar and lots more.  From LA, Honey Honey make excellent music together, a strain of americana that brings together Nashville’s tuneful country, Laurel Canyon’s folk-rock and an edginess that comes from living in LA.  Santo is a truly appealing vocalist, her allure strengthened by Jaffe’s backing vocals, dovetailing so perfectly and yet so naturally.  I believe this is Honey Honey’s second or third release, and it should vault them deservingly towards the spotlight, a’la Civil Wars.  Recommended.
Produced by: Raymond Richards
Label: Lost Hwy
File Under: Americana

 

 

Greensky Bluegrass, Handguns

The fourth album from the “new-grass” band from Kalamazoo, who won the Telluride Bluegrass award in 2006.  Even moreso than their previous efforts the excellent Handguns is a genre-bending affair, deserving of lots of hyphenated attempts at classifying an album that spans from Railroad Earth-style jamming to something more akin to the Avetts.  Each member of the quintet is a quality musician, though my award goes to Anders Beck’s steel contributions.  One of the better albums I’ve heard in recent weeks.  Greensky Bluegrass will join KRFC for a show at Hodi’s on the 28th of October.  Recommended.
Produced by: Greensky Bluegrass
Label: Big Blue Zoo
File Under: Americana

 

 

Crooked Still, Friends Of Fall

Crooked Still celebrate their 10th birthday with this long EP (or short LP) of covers familiar and otherwise.  Aoife O’Donovan is surely one of the most lovely voices around, as evidenced on her wonderful take on Paul Simon’s “American Tune” or “Peace of Wild Things”, a Wendell Berry poem set to music.  There’s also a Beatles cut, John Hartford and just one original.  All are so carefully arranged and performed, Crooked Still are more reinterpreters as opposed to another cover band.  A fine collection.
Produced by: Crooked Still
Label: Signature Sounds
File Under: Americana

 

 

Nikki Lane, Walk Of Shame

Couple months ago, I entered a 4-song EP by Ms Lane into our library, and it’s since gotten a good deal of air love from our programmers.  Walk Of Shame fleshes out the promise of that first glance, offering two tracks from the EP and 9 new tunes.  Like the EP, the songs here are rooted in trad country, with Lane’s classic voice and dramatic arrangements.  To this, however, Lane adds echo and attitude a’la Sarah Borges or Neko Case.  With only a couple exceptions (including a Muddy Waters cut), Lane has written or cowritten most tracks, and deserves the attention her CD is receiving.
Produced by: Dave Cobb and Lewis Pesacov
Label: I Am Sound
File Under: Americana

 

 

Danny Barnes, Rocket

Barnes is best know as the versatile banjo virtuoso who fronted Bad Livers and played with everyone from Leftover Salmon to Butthole Surfers.  Rocket finds Barnes expanding ever more in the electric direction, playing what he calls the “bamjo”, a hardbody banjo with pickups.  On a handful of more rocking tracks, it’s not even recognizable as a banjo-hybrid.  Nevertheless, as he branches out,  Barnes shows himself to be more soulful and funky, and certainly more experimental than any other banjo player of which I am aware.  As a special bonus, there is a cover of T Rex’s “Bang a Gong”.  No matter your expectations, Barnes will exceed them here.
Produced by: John Alagia
Label: ATO
File Under: Americana

 

 

Ryan Adams, Ashes & Fire

I believe John entered this into the library last week, possibly even under Rock.  But I wanted to drop a belated commentary about Adams’ first serious work in a couple years.  It’s also his most basic and stripped down, focusing on little more than good songcraft.  There are no tracks that rise above a ballad or mid-range beat, with Adams’ honest and raw voice front and center in front of a very strong band.  Joining him are Benmont Tench, Greg Leisz, Norah Jones and more.  In addition to Jones, Mandy Moore and former Cardinal Neal Casal add vocals.  While the results are more subtle than most of what he has done in the past, there are some fine and stirring moments on Ashes & Fire.
Produced by: Glyn Johns
Label: Capitol
File Under: Americana

 

 

Red Molly, Light In the Sky

Seems it hasn’t been all too long since this stellar New York trio unleashed their James CD upon our library.  Light in the Sky replaces Molly Carolann Solebello with singer-songwriter and guitarist Molly Venter, but the musicianship and unreal harmonies are a constant.  While there are only three originals here, the Mollies do a fine job selecting covers, including a couple trax by Gillian and David, a Buddy and Julie and a couple Mark Erellis.  Especially strong is Abbie Gardner’s dobro, joined by guests Jonathan Byrd, Jake Armerding, drummer Ben Wittman and more. Wheras much of James fell firmly into the folk bin, Light in the Sky crosses over comfortably into country and bluegrass territory.  A fine recording.
Produced by: Red Molly
Label: Red Molly
File Under: Americana

 

 

Joe Henry, Reverie

There was a time when Joe Henry was a straightforward americana singer-songwriter; one among many (his early 90s albums featured the Jayhawks as his backing band). The five albums released since Scar often sound like a different artist; more akin to a much less bombastic Tom Waits, bringing the class of jazz and the suaveness of R&B into his mix.  Whereas some of the stuff Henry has released recently incorporate noise and rattle into his songs, Reverie strives to be a wholly acoustic affair, focused on Henry with little else beyond guitar or piano and standup bass.  It’s a frequently beautiful and elegant affair, with the artist’s true poetry like little else you’ll hear in popular music.  Which isn’t to say that everything will go over like gangbusters on radio.  Henry thrives on understatement, so don’t expect catchy beats. But by all means give this recommended disc a close listen.
Produced by: Joe Henry
Label: Anti
File Under: Americana

 

 

Verlon Thompson, Works

Thompson deserves to be more respected as a songwriter, but is much better known as a sideman, especially to Guy Clark.  He records solo albums infrequently, and on Works Thompson mixes more familiar tunes with new ones, both unaccompanied and with friends.  Like Clark, Thompson’s talent is in telling stories, with a ready sense of humor and pathos.  While the tracks featuring only Verlon and his guitar are a bit sparse for radio, there are enough more fleshed-out cuts among the 18 here that will fit in nicely on americana and folk-leaning programs.
Produced by: Verlon Thompson
Label: Victor Tango
File Under: Americana

 

 

Merle Haggard, Working in Tennessee

A nice surprise from Hag, now nearly 75 years old and long past his true prime.  At this point, few would blame him if he chose to assemble an album of covers or rerecordings.  Fortunately, Tennessee is more than just a victory lap, it’s a collection of new Hag songs, with only carefully placed guests.  While his voice has aged, it’s done so gracefully, and Haggard sounds perfectly comfortable, which is not to say he’s cruising here.  His umpteenth album features a couple excellent originals, songs which hold their own up against the man’s legacy.
Produced by: Merle & Lou Bradley
Label: Vanguard
File Under: Americana

COLORADO SPINS for OCTOBER

1)  Great American Taxi, Paradise Lost  (C)

2)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, Live and Learn  (C)

3)  Lionel Young Band, On Our Way To Memphis  (C)

4)  Holler, Gratitude  (C)

5)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco  (C)

6)  John-Alex Mason, Juke Joint Thunderclap  (C)

7)  Cary Morin, Sing It Louder  (C)

8)  Cassie Taylor, Blue  (C)

9)  Wendy Woo Band, Austerity  (C)

10)  John Oates, Mississippi Mile  (C)

11)  Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore, Saints & Sinners  (C)

12)  Spring Creek, Hold On Me  (C)

13)  Bare Bones, Bare Bones  (C)

14)  Devotchka, 100 Lovers  (C)

15)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, Spools Of Thread  (C)

 

ALBUM SPINS for OCTOBER

1)  Wilco, Whole Love

2) Great American Taxi, Paradise Lost (C)

3)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, Live and Learn (C)

4)  Lionel Young Band, On Our Way To Memphis (C)

5)  Maria Muldaur, Steady Love

6)  Holler, Gratitude  (C)

7)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco  (C)

8)  Ry Cooder, Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down

9)  John-Alex Mason, Juke Joint Thunderclap  (C)

10)  Cary Morin, Sing It Louder  (C)

11)  Cassie Taylor, Blue  (C)

12)  Steve Cropper, Dedicated

13)  Wendy Woo Band, Austerity  (C)

14)  Imelda May, Mayhem

15)  Robert Earl Keen, Ready For Confetti

 

 

SONG SPINS for OCTOBER

1)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, “Rich Man”  (C)

2)  Wilco, “Capitol City”

3)  Ry Cooder, “Humpty Dumpty World”

4)  Trombone Shorty, “Do To Me”

5)  Wilco, “Born Alone”

6)  Blitzen Trapper, “American Goldwing”

7)  Cary Morin, “Sing It Louder”  (C)

8)  Cassie Taylor, “Keys”  (C)

9)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, “Live and Learn”  (C)

10)  Fierce Bad Rabbit, “You”  (C)

Lists compiled by KRFC’s own Scott Foley, host of Routes & Beanches.

Read more News, Notes and Spins from around Colorado.

(t/y thecoloradosound.com)

COLORADO ARTISTS

* Mosey West, Vaca Money
Our first of two FoCo artists, the alt.country trio Mosey West was granted studio time and an EP release as victors of a contest sponsored by Marquee Magazine. Especially for a group that hasn’t played together for all too long, Vaca Money is a fine first effort. There is unexpected depth in the lyrics and arrangement of the five songs featured here. Between the whiskey-rough vocals, the buzzing electric guitars and the pedal steel, this is classic sounding stuff. Mosey West will present a CD release party on October 15 at Road 34.
Produced by: Mosey West & Evan Reeves
Label: Self
File Under: Americana / Local

* Kathryn Mostow, Rich Girl
Just in time for last weekend’s CD release party, Rich Girl marks Fort Collins’ Kathryn Mostow’s third studio effort. As she acknowledges in her liner notes, it is also her first album in seven years, having taken lots of time to move and begin a family. The results reveal the time and care she invested, as well as sparkling, clean production from John McVey. Mostow’s tunes often touch on personal stories, walking the line between contemporary folk and americana a’la Nanci Griffith. Mostow is also in excellent vocal form, able to raise goosebumps at the turn of a phrase.
Produced by: John McVey
Label: Self
File Under: Americana / Local

OTHER ARTISTS

* Tom Russell, Mesabi
Tacked onto the end of Mesabi is a stellar take on “Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall”, interpreted by Tom Russell, Lucinda Williams and Calexico. While the somewhat lengthy song is the highlight of Russell’s umpteenth album, Russell is such a worthy songwriter and storyteller that his own songs hardly pale by comparison. The inclusion of Dylan’s tune is also appropriate, given the fact that the album’s title refers to the Mesabi Iron Range of Minnesota, in whose shadow Robert Zimmerman was born. As with his other recent CDs, Russell here name-checks figures from throughout our popular history, as well as painting broad-stroke portraits of his beloved El Paso – Juarez borderlands. One of Russell’s finest efforts to date.
Produced by: Tom Russell & Barry Walsh
Label: Shout Factory
File Under: Americana

* Lera Lynn, Have You Met Lera Lynn?
Debut CD for this talented Georgia songwriter who took flight as a member of the folk-rock outfit Birds & Wire. Now on her own, she applies her sultry country voice to music she calls, “honesty, simple, sultry and dark.” The album was also mastered by Brian Lucey, who has worked most recently with Black Keys. One of the album’s stronger moments, “Good Hearted Man,” is ripe with profanity, so please be sure to play it from the “clean” single included. For fans of Neko, Jessica Lea Mayfield, Alela et al.
Produced by: Lera Lynn & CK Koch
Label: Slow Records
File Under: Americana

* RMutt, Leash On Life
While these Milwaukee bar rockers have been around since 1988, I only recently tripped across them online. Call it country- or roots-rock, electrified like DbTs and working class like Bottle Rockets, best served with canned beer. Even after all these years, this seems to be only the band’s fourth album. Their online bio says it all, “We’re a rock and roll band born in a pool of old tap beer in a Milwaukee basement in 1988. Watch for us in your local dive or juke joint.”
Produced by: Trevor Sadler
Label: RMutt
File Under: Americana

* Wood Brothers, Smoke Ring Halo
Released officially back in August, and available loosely before then, I’ve been trying to snag us a copy of this release for months. Now that the Wood Brothers have played through FoCo, here it is. Still, it’s worth the wait, a rootsier sound than they’ve ever demonstrated, and well produced by Jim Scott. What impresses me about Wood Brothers is that Oliver (from blues band King Johnson) and Chris (bassist from jazzers Medeski Martin and Wood) are able to bring skills from their day jobs to their collaborations, while managing to create an entirely new sound. Recommended.
Produced by: Jim Scott
Label: Southern Ground
File Under: Americana

* Pieta Brown, Mercury
Long before the release of this, Brown’s seventh album, she escaped the shadow of being “Greg Brown’s daughter”. Not just a gorgeous voice, she is also a strong writer (albeit having inherited Daddy’s “less is more” theory of wordcraft). Mercury was recorded, as all her albums, with guitarist, cowriter and producer Bo Ramsey, backed here by Mark Knopfler’s touring band (Knopfler himself adds guitars on one cut). The results are frequently sparse and bluesy.
Produced by: Pieta Brown & Bo Ramsey
Label: Red House
File Under: Americana

* John Prine, Singing Mailman Delivers
This double-CD set proves that Prine was brilliant from square one. On the 40th anniversary of his self-titled debut, Oh Boy releases these 1970 recordings, one live and one studio, set to tape before his debut was committed to vinyl. While the recording quality varies, especially on the live cuts, the song quality is undisputed. Almost all the songs eventually made it onto a formal Prine project, but it’s great to hear them this way, when the man was just a 24 year old postman.
Produced by:
Label: Oh Boy
File Under: Americana

* Megafaun, Megafaun
This North Carolina band is perhaps best known as the band Justin Vernon abandoned to become Bon Iver. Their third formal studio album (matter of fact, recorded in the studio where their former bandmate’s celebrated debut took form) continues their ongoing flirtation with the fringes of country- and folk-rock, fitting comfortably in the same musical bin as Band of Horses and My Morning Jacket, where banjos and harmonicas cross paths with studio wizardry and feedback. While a couple tracks dial up the spacey content, most are rooted in a post-American Beauty Dead vibe.
Produced by:
Label: Hometapes
File Under: Rock

* Jason Boland & the Stragglers, Rancho Alto
Truth is, a good deal of what falls into the americana bin is nothing more (or less) than true country music, ignored by the genre’s misguided mainstream. Over the space of 5 studio and 2 live albums, Boland has proven to be a special writer and a strong country vocalist, ghettoized into what remains of the Red Dirt movement. After a couple recent setbacks, their first album in 4 years is an especially good collection. Extra points for some nice fiddle and pedal steel moments.
Produced by: Lloyd Maines
Label: Proud Souls
File Under: Americana

-Albums reviewed for KRFC by Scott Foley, Host of Routes & Branches

Album Spins for September

 

1)  Ry Cooder, Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down

2)  Cary Morin, Sing It Louder  (C)

3)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco  (C)

4)  Robert Earl Keen, Ready For Confetti

5)  Robbie Robertson, How To Become Clairvoyant

6)  Robert Plant, Band of Joy

7)  Imelda May, Mayhem

8)  Moody Bluegras, Two … Much Love

9)  Musketeer Gripweed, Dyin’ Day  (C)

10) Brigitte DeMeyer, Rose of Jericho

11) Various Artists, Rave On Buddy Holly

12) Mary Flower, Misery Loves Company

13) Steve Cropper, Dedicated

14) Trombone Shorty, For True

15) Civil Wars, Barton Hollow

 

 

 

Song Spins for September

 

1)  Civil Wars, “Barton Hollow”

2)  Ry Cooder, “No Banker Left Behind”

3)  Alela Diane, “To Begin”

4)  Gillian Welch, “Scarlet Town”

5)  The Holler, “Gratitude”  (C)

6)  Ana Egge, “Bad Blood”

7)  Blood Orange, “Sutphin Blvd”

8)  Devotchka, “100 Other Lovers”  (C)

9)  Florence + the Machine, “Not Fade Away”

10) Imelda May, “Mayhem”

 

 

Colorado Artists for September

 

1)  Cary Morin, Sing It Louder

2)  Patti Fiasco, Patti Fiasco

3)  Musketeer Gripweed, Dyin’ Day

4)  Devotchka, 100 Lovers

5)  Papa Juke, Out of the Blues

6)  John Common, Beautiful Empty

7)  Bare Bones, Bare Bones

8)  The Holler, Gratitude

9)  Wendy Woo Band, Austerity

10)  3 Twins, 3 Twins Broadband

11) Cassie Taylor, Blues

12) Finnders & Youngberg, FY5

13) Kevin Dooley, Moonlight Highway

14) Fierce Bad Rabbit, Spools of Thread

15) Lionel Young Band, On Our Way to Memphis

16) Spring Creek, Hold On Me

Compiled by Scott Foley, Host of Routes & Branches on KRFC