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

* Various Artists, Listen To Me: Buddy Holly

On what would’ve been his 75th birthday year, this is the 2nd and most high-profile of the Holly tributes released to date.  Contributors include Stevie Nicks, Imelda May, Lyle Lovett and more.  There’s even some CO music here from The Fray.  And Eric Idle …  Compared to the earlier affair, arrangements here are truer to the originals, with only a couple notable exceptions.  While this might get us the reputation of playing way more than our share of Buddy Holly tributes, it’s got some truly worthy moments.

Produced by: Peter Asher (Executive)

Label: Verve

File Under: Rock

 

 

* Brigitte DeMeyer, Rose of Jericho

The long-awaited fifth CD from one of the genre’s strongest vocalists and songwriters.  With a voice as strong as Patty Griffin’s, DeMeyer’s mix is rooted here in the music of New Orleans and in gospel traditions.  She is joined by Will Kimbrough, Sam Bush, Mike Farris and more in a very satisfying collection; an album with both roots and wings.  Recommended.

Produced by: BM & Brady Black

Label: Self

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Bare Bones, Bare Bones

A strong new 6-song EP (their second) from the Denver roots quintet whose members have worked with such CO luminaries as Hearts In Space, Munly, Snake Rattle Rattle Snake and Nathaniel Rateliff.  Stylistically, Bare Bones falls closest to folk/rock, with much of the sound built around the violin of Frieda Stalheim.  They add just a touch of darkness to the music, a’la HEM, and should appeal to fans of Over the Rhine or Horsefeathers.

Produced by:

Label: Self

File Under: Americana / Local

 

 

 

* Ry Cooder, Pull Up Some Dust and Sit Down

You know an artist is setting out to make a political statement when his new album is being streamed online at  NPR’s Marketplace.  To his credit, Cooder has always been able to pull it off, surrounding his stance with tremendous musicianship that makes it far more than the opinion page set to music.  Like most of his recent music, Pull Up Some Dust borrows much of its groove from Latin music – percussion and language.  While Cooder invites some famous friends, it’s mostly just him and his son Joachim who have assembled these tracks.  Arguably his best effort since ’97s Buena Vista Social Club.  Recommended.

Produced by: Ry Cooder

Label: Nonesuch

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Nick Lowe, The Old Magic

At 61, seems Nick the Knife has been spending his last couple albums trying to convince us how old he is.  Having mastered punk, pub rock and new wave, Old Magic dwells in a rootsy brand of retro lounge pop, where sweet and languid ballads outweigh upbeat bits three-to-one.  Still, Lowe remains among the best classic pop songwriters, and even his quieter moments are often charming.  I suppose this is better than those elder statesmen who spend their albums trying to convince us how young they are …

Produced by:

Label: Yep Roc

File Under: Rock

 

 

* Robert Earl Keen, Ready For Confetti

On his sixteenth album, Keen once again walks the line between classic Texas story songs and throwaway good-time anthems.  He can seemingly do both with one hand tied, releasing Jimmy Buffet cheese here and Townes Van Zandt poetry in the next breath.  Confetti is both as good as his other recent albums, but also a reminder that he will probably never make another Gringo Honeymoon.  Fans will find lots to like, and let’s face it, nobody expects change from REK at this point.  To paraphrase the man himself, this road goes on and on …

Produced by: Lloyd Maines

Label: Lost Highway

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Dirt Daubers, Wake Up Sinners

Dirt Daubers’ debut features Colonel JD Wilkes and bassist Mark Robertson, both from Legendary Shack Shakers, and Wilkes’ wife Jessica on vox and guitar, applying much of the Shakers’ energy and irreverence to trad and original gospel music.  Tunes are short and fierce, stuff that churches might not recognize or claim as their own.  Wilkes’ vox and banjo are quickly recognizable, and Mrs Wilkes’ singing adds a nice touch to songs as both a backing singer and a lead.  Incidentally, since Dirt Daubers are touring with Legendary Shack Shakers this fall, seems the latter band hasn’t called it quits.

Produced by: Steve Mabee & Dirt Daubers

Label: Colonel Knowledge

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Reckless Kelly, Good Luck & True Love

Several bands estimate the sound that Reckless Kelly has perfected, but nobody comes close to RK’s rocking blend of red dirt country and TX roadhouse.  After stints at a couple high profile labels, the Brauns have chosen to release their fine new album on their own label.  They rock harder than most, and have a true sense of melody lacking in too many other acts.  Matter of fact, Good Luck is all about the electric guitars, with several tracks turned up beyond their typical levels for RK.  Recommended.

Produced by: David Abeyta, Willy Braun & Cody Braun

Label: No Big Deal

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Nick 13, Nick 13

Mr 13 is the lead singer and songwriter for the psychobilly band Tiger Army.  On his first solo CD, Nick tempers his billy tendencies with some honky tonk and americana, demonstrating a gorgeous, classic country voice.  He’s also recruited some friends, including producer/guitarists Greg Leisz and James Intveld, pedal steel whiz Lloyd Green, Sara Watkins and more.

Produced by: Greg Leisz & James Intveld

Label: Sugar Hill

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Kevin Dooley, Moonlight Highway

Not a whole lot of competition in Niwot for musical attention.  Resident Kevin Dooley has been practicing his craft for years now, something he calls “American Celtic” (I’m hearing more of the former than the latter).  Produced by Todd Adelman, Moonlight Highway bring to mind roots rock artists such as John Hiatt or David Olney (whom he covers here), with an expressive but gruff voice.  There are also covers of Robert Earl Keen, Tom Waits, Jimmy LaFave and more, alongside four originals.  A nicely done recording.

Produced by: Todd Adelman & Kevin Dooley

Label: Self

File Under: Americana / Local

 

 

* Whitehorse, Whitehorse

This project pairs two artists who have worked their way to prominence in the Canadian americana scene.  Married outside the studio, Whitehorse marks the debut studio pairing of Melissa McClelland and Luke Doucet.  Like their respective solo work, the songs here feature an edgy americana sound, buoyed by the appealingly paired vocals of the participants.  There is also a nice, straightforward duet on Springsteen’s “I’m On Fire”.

Produced by: Luke Doucet

Label: Six Shooter

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Blitzen Trapper, American Goldwing

One of my favorite releases of the year.  I’ve always been fond of the Oregon band’s efforts, flirting with combining Flying Burrito Bros alt.country, 70s country-rock and contemporary indie sounds.  On their new effort, they’ve finally found the perfect balance.  Programmers who have enjoyed Middle Brother or any of the bands that generated that super group (Dawes, Delta Spirit and Deer Tick) will want to give some airplay to this effort, which manages to sound retro and contemporary at the same time.  Recommended.

Produced by: Eric Earley & Gregg Williams

Label: Sub Pop

File Under: Rock

 

 

* Various Artists, Dark River: Songs of the Civil War Era

Well-worn trads are given new life from a strong assortment of primarily Austin, TX artists.  We could sing most of these tunes without a lyric sheet, but it’s nice to hear these new takes by the likes of Slaid Cleaves, Rich Brotherton, James McMurtry and more.  There’s also a CO connection in a nice collaboration between Celeste Krenz and our own Rebecca Folsom.

Produced by; Chuck Pinnell

Label: Blue Corn

File Under: Americana

 

 

* Andy Thorn & Friends, Fire In the Sky

While banjoist Thorn looks to North Carolina as home, he has been Boulder-based for the past five years.  During that time, Thorn has played most notably with Emmitt-Nershi Band and Leftover Salmon.  This new effort features several famous friends backing up Thorn on tunes ranging between grass and country.  Thorn’s expressive banjo takes center stage on most tracks, all of which he wrote (with the exception of a closing cover of G-n-R’s “Sweet Child Of Mine”).  A nicely produced collection.

Produced by: Andy Thorn

Label: Thornpipe

File Under: Americana / Local

 

 

* Trevor G. Potter, Curbside Vacancy

* Trevor G. Potter, Potter County & Points Far Beyond

These releases, 2006 and 2010 respectively, are added to our Local library courtesy of Greg Krush.  Potter has wandered across several states over the years, but now calls Steamboat Springs his home.  He has also served as a radio programmer here and there (and a park ranger and a brewmaster).  Potter sings his tunes in a slightly pinched, higher-than-average voice, somewhat recalling Jimmy LaFave, played with a band called Rural Wreckage. These are smart, well-produced pieces that deserve to find their way into our Colorado music rotation.  

Produced by: TVG and Steve Boynton

Label: Trevor G. Potter

File Under: Americana / Local

 

 

-Reviews contributed by Scott Foley, host of Routes & Branches.