"An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose."
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"An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose." |
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Archive 2011
Listen Up to This One's For Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark!
Available December 6, This One's For Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark (Icehouse Music) is a loving tribute celebrating Clark’s 70th birthday. The double CD includes 30 tracks by 33 Americana artists who are friends and colleagues of Clark or who have been influenced by his remarkable compositions including Rodney Crowell, Lyle Lovett, Joe Ely, Shawn Colvin, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, James McMurtry, Emmylou Harris & John Prine, Patty Griffin, Ron Sexsmith, Rosanne Cash, Steve Earle, Vince Gill, Jerry Jeff Walker, Robert Earl Keen, and more. Guy Clark’s poetry resonates deeply with his fellow songwriters. “Guy’s songs are literature,” says Lyle Lovett, among the venerable artists who eagerly gathered for This One’s For Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark. “The first time I heard Guy Clark, I thought it made everything I’d heard up to that point something other than a song. His ability to translate the emotional into the written word is extraordinary.” Produced by GRAMMY-winning Tamara Saviano and frequent Clark co-writer, Shawn Camp, CLICK HERE to preorder your copy today (just in time for the holidays!) THIS JUST IN: Performing Songwriter is currently streaming part of This One's For Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark, and you can register to win your very own copy! Only 10 lucky folks will win, so CLICK HERE to register NOW!
CLICK HERE for more about This One's For Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark
James McMurtry Offers Free MP3 In Support of Occupy Movement
The singer-songwriter is giving away mp3s of his iconic political masterpiece "We Can't Make It Here" (from his award-winning Childish Things). Fans are encouraged to use the free mp3 of "We Can't Make It Here" to create videos supporting the Occupy movement. CLICK HERE to download the FREE MP3 (Radio: CLICK HERE to download the FCC-Friendly Radio Edit) For the FIRST TIME in SEVEN YEARS, CLICK HERE to download the ACOUSTIC MP3 Send your stories and videos to mcmurtrysite@gmail.com, or post to the James McMurtry Facebook Page. The best of the best will be featured HERE, on James McMurtry's website. CLICK HERE to read McMurtry's recent blog about the Occupy Movement. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: CLICK HERE to check out James McMurtry's recent Daytrotter Session.
CLICK HERE to purchase Live in Europe
Kinky Friedman : Lighting Candles For America, City By City
That's right, Kinky has embarked on his 'Hanukkah Tour of 2011.' Kinky will be visiting the midwest, west and southwest all through December. CLICK HERE for tour dates and be sure to catch Kinky LIVE. In January, on the heels of his collaboration with Billy Bob Thornton, Kinky will sit down with Willie Nelson and begin what's sure to be an extraordinary new book. Stay tuned for details on that as well as his upcoming "Southern Discomfort Tour" (Feb 2012), when The Kinkster plans to launch his new Man In Black Tequila. CLICK HERE for more about Kinky Friedman
Happy Holidays From Jenni Finlay Promotions!
Hope your holiday season is a bright one. Remember to give great music to your family and friends this holiday. CLICK HERE to purchase albums by James McMurtry, Gurf Morlix, Slaid Cleaves, Mike McClure, Danny Barnes, Rod Picott, Owen Temple, HalleyAnna, Matt The Electrician, and many more!
For a limited time, CLICK HERE to purchase the Jenni Finlay Promotions tote bag. Let us help carry the weight of your world (including your tunes) with this heavy-duty, multi-purpose bag. The perfect gift for everyone on your list! Mike McClure On the Road
Mike McClure hits the road, in support of his brand new release, Fifty Billion (available HERE). Check out the tour dates below and don't miss a show near you: 12/9 Stephenville, TX Bostock's 12/15 Joplin, MO Crazytown 12/16 Washington, MO Otis Campbell's
12/17 Tulsa, OK Cain's Fifty Billion is still climbing the charts, #19 on the International FAR Report, #18 on The Roots Rock Report, and bubblin' under on the Americana Music Chart.
CLICK HERE to purchase Fifty Billion Danny Barnes Buzz
Danny Barnes has received glowing reviews and incredible response for his latest release, Rocket. CLICK HERE to check out this amazing review of Danny Barnes' Rocket in No Depression. CLICK HERE to see what All Music Guide has to say. The innovative Danny Barnes won't put out just one release at a time....if you LOVE Rocket, check out the companion discs:
Angel (Solo Acoustic) Poison (Demos)* *also available on cassette
CLICK HERE to purchase Rocket
HalleyAnna Charms Folk World
HalleyAnna is wowing the Folk and Roots world with her debut release, The Country, which has received acclaim from around the globe. CLICK HERE to see what folks are saying (and be sure to add your comments to the "Buzz" page as well!) HalleyAnna was recently the cover feature of John Conquest's International 3rd Coast Music Magazine. CLICK HERE to check it out. Lone Star Music Magazine raves, "HalleyAnna adds her voice to those many Texans that just have to sing for the song's sake, and she's getting it right from the get-go."
CLICK HERE to purchase The Country Ring in the Holidays with Dawes
THIS JUST IN: Dawes' Nothing is Wrong came in at #8 on Paste Magazine's 50 Best Albums of 2011, #5 on American Songwriter's Top 50 Albums of 2011. Dawes is sure to be on many more Top 10 lists this year. Stay tuned to find out!
Dawes will kick off a whirlwind holiday tour this month! This Saturday, December 3rd, they will perform at Levon Helm's Midnight Ramble. On December 5th, they take the stage at Beacon Theatre in New York City for WFUV's Holiday Cheer (which will also feature Mavis Staples and Head and the Heart.) On December 9th, Dawes comes to Austin, for KGSR's 21st Anniversary Party. Watch Dawes' acoustic performance on Baeble Music HERE, and try your hand at a chance to win a signed Nothing is Wrong from the band HERE.
Mark your calendar: Be sure to catch Dawes on Conan O'Brien December 15th (TBS).
CLICK HERE to purchase Nothing is Wrong
Lauren Shera Supports the Indie Record Store
Lauren Shera's remarkable Once I Was A Bird can now be found in the coolest indie record stores across the country! Support your local purveyor of music and visit one of these great shops:
Amoeba - Hollywood and San Francisco Cactus Records - Houston Decatur CD - Decatur, GA Dimple Records - Sacramento Disc Go Round - Corpus Christi Disc Exchange - Knoxville Easy Street - Seattle Everybody's Records - Cinncinati Exclusive Records - Wisconnsin Fingerprints - Long Beach, Ca Grimey's - Nashville Homer's - Omaha Johnny's Records - Darien, CT Music Millenium - Portland, OR Newbury Comics - Boston OZ Music - Tuscaloosa Park Avenue CD - Orlando, FL Plan 9 - Richmond, VA Princeton Records - Princeton, NJ Rasputin's - Berkeley Record Exchange - Boise Salzer's - Ventura, Ca Schoolkids - Ralegh, NC Silver Platter's - Bellvue, Wa Twist & Shout - Denver, CO Waterloo Records - Austin, TX Zia Records - Arizona If you can't make it to one of these groovy stores, CLICK HERE to purchase Once I Was A Bird
Have a Greezy Holiday!
Kick off the holiday season the Greezy Way! CLICK HERE to listen to Greezy Wheels' "Have A Greezy Holiday" to get into the holiday groove. In the true Greezy holiday spirit, Greezy Wheels will be devoting most of their energies to helping others this month. First, on December 11th, catch them at Saxon Pub, where they will be participating in the cd release party for drummer John Bush's new holiday compilation, The Candlelight Carols. All proceeds will benefit the Candlelight Ranch.
On December 18th, Greezy Wheels will join Ponty Bone and many more at Jovita's for In The Name Of The Dame, a benefit concert for Traci Lamar Hancock. This will be the first of several concerts for Traci to help defer her enormous medical expenses. Greezy Wheels encourages you all to give back, reach out, and lend a hand this holiday season. And stay greezy, friends! CLICK HERE to purchase Gone Greezy
Catch Slaid Cleaves LIVE This Month
Slaid Cleaves has scheduled a select number of intimate, acoustic shows this month. A GREAT gift for all of your favorite Slaid Cleaves fans, check out the dates below, and get your tickets today: 12/3 Austin, TX Cactus Cafe
12/8 Houston, TX Mucky Duck (with Jimmy LaFave and Sam Baker) 12/16 La Grange, TX The Bugle Boy
12/17 Port Aransas, TX Third Coast Music 12/23 Austin, TX Armadillo Christmas Bazaar CLICK HERE to purchase Sorrow & Smoke - Live at The Horseshoe Lounge
What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? Make your New Year's plans TODAY, and ring in 2012 with these great Jenni Finlay Promotions artists: Saturday, December 31st:
Matt The Electrician Houston, TX Anderson Fair
Dawes Minneapolis, MN The Varsity Theatre (Sold Out) Greezy Wheels (Cleve and Sweet Mary) Austin, TX Evangeline Cafe Jason Eady Gruene, TX Gruene Hall Shelley King Austin, TX Baker's St. Pub and Grill (Sherlock's South Austin)
Sara Hickman Houston, TX Kolanowski House Concert Sunday, January 1st: Walt Wilkins and the Mystiqueros Gruene, TX Gruene Hall (4pm) 2012 Will Be A VERY Good Year! Stay tuned for stellar upcoming releases in 2012: >> Ben Kweller Go Fly A Kite: CLICK HERE for your special sneakpeak >> Lincoln Durham The Shovel vs The Howling Bones: CLICK HERE and download you FREE MP3 (before you can buy it!) for a limited time. >> Sons of Bill Sirens: CLICK HERE to watch a LIVE video of one of the new songs from the upcoming album.
Also coming in 2012: Ray Wylie Hubbard, Charlie Shafter, Joe Pug, Jon Dee Graham, and many more!! Wish I Was In Austin: A 70th Birthday Tribute to Guy Clark The live show also celebrates the double CD-set This One's For Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark, to be released on December 6, 2011 to celebrate Clark's 70th birthday.
CLICK HERE for tickets. Kinky Friedman: Lighting Candles For America, City By City
With Kinky's Hanukkah Tour 2011 kicking off on November 29th in Fort Worth, the media world is about to explode with all things Kinky. His long-awaited book, co-written with Billy Bob Thornton, Billy Bob Talks - How To Make A Movie Out Of Your Life And A Life Out Of Your Movie, is now scheduled to hit the shelves in early 2012, and the even longer-awaited co-write with Willie Nelson, The Troublemaker, is now set to come out in mid-2012.
To prove that he is the true Jewish troubadour, Kinky has also announced another series of dates for February, the Southern Discomfort Tour, which will take Kinky throughout the south and southeast. During this stretch, Friedman will officially unveil his Man In Black Tequila (his tribute to Zorro, Palladin and Johnny Cash.)
DON'T MISS IT: You have TWO opportunities this winter to catch Kinky Friedman in Texas. Support the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch in Salado, TX.
November 26th Salado, TX The Springs Music Hall (w/ BJ Thomas)
December 17th Salado, TX The Springs Music Hall (w/ Rodney Crowell and Billy Joe Shaver)
For more about Kinky Friedman, CLICK HERE
Pre-Order Danny Barnes’ Rocket Now / Out Everywhere Nov. 8
November 8th marks the release of Danny Barnes' new album, Rocket! Pre-order NOW to win a custom Danny Barnes model Bishline banjo, an Estes E-Kit Rocket, a skateboard with Danny Barnes custom artwork, an old-school cassette boom box, t-shirt with album themed artwork, and more! In the typical innovative style of Danny Barnes, the album is available in three configurations (Rocket- Studio/CD, Angel - Solo Acoustic Banjo w Vocals/CD, and Poison - Demos/Cassette). Spread the word and tell your friends!
CLICK HERE to pre-order your copy of Rocket
Dawes Takes the World By Storm
CLICK HERE to check out the stellar Billboard article about DAWES. CLICK HERE to see Dawes perform LIVE on VH1. Dawes is hitting the road this fall, co-headlining a nationwide tour with their friends Blitzen Trapper (featuring special guests Belle Brigade & Smoke Fairies). CLICK HERE for tour dates. For the occasion, both bands are offering a free EP download and exclusive t-shirt/ticket bundles HERE
CLICK HERE to purchase your copy of Nothing is Wrong
Communion Tour Kicks Off
The debut Communion North American Tour is off and running! The tour features London's Matthew & The Atlas, Grammy-nominated The David Mayfield Parade, and our own up-and-coming folk artist, Lauren Shera. Check out the brilliant feature in Stereo Subversion HERE. CLICK HERE for dates, tickets, and more info! As part of the Communion experience, each of the touring artists learn and perform one of the other's song. Check out the following videos:
Matthew & The Atlas "I Just Might Pray" (originally by The David Mayfield Parade) The David Mayfield Parade "Once I Was a Bird" (Originally by Lauren Shera) Lauren Shera "Within The Rose" (originally by Matthew & The Atlas) CLICK HERE to purchase Once I Was A Bird Slaid Cleaves - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge Slaid Cleaves' Sorrow & Smoke - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge continues to receive national and international praise and acclaim. CLICK HERE to read the recent interview in No Depression. CLICK HERE to check out his tour schedule and don't miss a show near you!
If you've never been to the Horseshoe Lounge or seen Slaid Cleaves perform, listen to Sorrow & Smoke and you'll get the picture, loud and clear. Sorrow & Smoke - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge, captures the best of the Cleaves catalog, all wrapped up in the warmth of his live show. CLICK HERE to purchase Sorrow & Smoke - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge
Mike McClure - IN STORES TODAY
At long last, the highly anticipated Fifty Billion is AVAILABLE NOW! CLICK HERE to order your copy today! Mike McClure's Fifty Billion is soaring up the charts, making a giant 200 spot leap this week on the Americana Music Chart.
???Musically speaking, Mike McClure is a master of all trades. Artist, musician, songwriter, producer, mentor...these are his collection of hats he wears with a style all his own. McClure was a founding member of The Great Divide. In 1995 they brought their own special brand of 'Red Dirt' to a national audience when they inked a deal with Atlantic Records. After a long and successful career with the band, McClure set out to do his own thing and formed the Mike McClure Band in 2004 with band mates Tom Skinner and Eric Hansen. McClure’s massive library of original songs is a thing of legend, and many of his gems have been commandeered over the years by a slew of other artists, from Garth Brooks to Cody Canada. As a songwriter and producer, McClure has collaborated with many other stellar artists including Cross Canadian Ragweed, Stoney LaRue, Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Scott Copeland, Johnny Cooper, Whiskey Meyers, Jerry Jeff Walker, Lloyd Maines, the Turnpike Troubadours and The Damn Quails. ?Fifty Billion offers an original and genuine sound that is McClure’s calling card and validates his reputation as the consummate music man whose boundless talent operates like a machine. One listen to Fifty Billion or any of McClure’s previous releases makes apparent that he could have never done anything else.
CLICK HERE to puchase Fifty Billion Bobby Long On Tour CLICK HERE to purchase A Winter Tale
Matt The Electrician Featured in Documentary
In May of 2010, Matt The Electrician joined 11 other songwriters from Denmark, Iceland, Norway, the Faroe Islands and Austin, Texas, at a 16th century castle in Denmark for three days of intensive co-writing. They were paired up in to groups of two's and three's and were given three hours to write and record a new song. In this short time, the songwriters wrote 21 songs to be performed at SPOT music festival in Aarhus, Denmark. Somehow the perfect combination of culture, language, time, place and personalities created an experience that changed these musician's lives forever. Holly Bronko captures it all on film, in the documentary, "All I Know," The Castle Sessions, which was recently featured in the Austin Film Festival. CLICK HERE for the trailer. Matt will tour Denmark this month, opening for Poul Krebs:
11/3 KOLDING GODSET 11/4 HERNING FERMATEN 11/5 ÅRHUS TRAIN 11/10 SØNDERBORG SØNDERBORGHUS 11/11 VEJLE TORVEHALLERNE 11/12 ESBJERG TOBAKKEN 11/17 GREVE PORTALEN 11/18 ODENSE MAGASINET 11/19 SVENDBORG BORGERFORENINGEN 11/24 KØBENHAVN AMAGER BIO 11/25 ÅLBORG SKRÅEN 11/26 FREDERIKSHAVN DET MUSISKE HUS CLICK HERE to purchase Accidental Thief
HalleyAnna Buzz
HalleyAnna's The Country is receiving international attention - Already #15 on the Roots Music Report, check out what folks are saying about this incredible debut: "HalleyAnna is a unique, refreshing voice and sounds like nobody else; however, if I had to make comparisons, I'd say that the knockout country soul of "So Heavy" (my favorite track) is reminiscent of Tift Merritt's best record, "Tambourine" - Warren Catlett, Radio Free Americana "Hearing HalleyAnna always makes me happy. she's like sunshine in a beautiful package. every song she writes or sings is great, and her voice really, really sends me, and reminds me of so many of the great records i loved growing up." - Walt Wilkins, Songwriter "HalleyAnna, is country with a distinctive Texas independent attitude." - Jim Beal Jr., Hector Saldaña and John Goodspeed "HalleyAnna is not another Taylor Swift wanna be. With her powerful voice and emotional songs, it's more like Tracy Chapman meets Dolly Parton...yea, hard to imagine, so you've got to buy the CD and take a listen. But don't miss seeing her live for the full experience!" - Anne Walls, Austinsongz CLICK HERE to purchase The Country
McMurtry Heads North to Alaska
For the first time in almost 20 years, James McMurtry will tour Alaska in a rare and intimate solo setting. Solo, McMurtry performs material from deep in his catalog, and debuts brand new songs - sometimes for the very first time. You may hear material you may have never before heard live. Check out the dates below, and get your tickets early:
11/17 Homer, AK Down East Saloon 11/18 Talkeetna, AK Latitude 62 11/19 Anchorage, AK Sydney Lawrence Theatre at Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 11/20 Palmer, AK Vagabond Blues CLICK HERE for all McMurtry tour dates. CLICK HERE to read McMurtry's latest blog, "What Happened to the Border," about his recent experience at the US/Canadian border. CLICK HERE to purchase Live in Europe
Greezo Extendo
Greezo Extendo, Greezy Wheels' follow-up EP to Gone Greezy has already hit the Americana airwaves! Listen for it on a station near you, and CLICK HERE to receive your FREE download (exclusively available at www.greezywheels.com). Just in time for the holidays, be sure you grab your copy of, "Have A Greezy Holiday" to make all of your holiday events complete! CLICK HERE to purchase Gone Greezy Across the Borderline - Canadian Tour
Just back from successful showcase performances in Canada, super-duo BettySoo and Doug Cox continue their "(some parts of the) World" Tour in Canada this month. Tour dates are also in the works in Holland, Germany, England and of course, the U.S. CLICK HERE for a show near you! CLICK HERE to watch the latest video of Across the Borderline LIVE. CLICK HERE to check out the recent reviews of Across The Borderline CLICK HERE to purchase Lie to Me Stay Tuned for Charlie Shafter Charlie Shafter brings a refreshing combination of old school rock and country blended seamlessly with a modern indie pop vibe, an Alternative Americana if you will. With early influences such as The Band, Tom Waits and Leon Russell it’s no wonder he is writing music with a wisdom beyond his years. Music veteran Ray Wylie Hubbard, not one to be easily impressed, signed on to produce Shafter’s upcoming self titled record due to his skilled songwriting, which Hubbard describes as “uncomplicated, yet complex, profound and always with a purpose.” Whether you catch him playing an acoustic set or with his full band his engaging sound will make a believer out of you too. Stay tuned for his debut release in early 2012!
Listen Up to Danny Barnes! Danny Barnes has come to redefine the banjo’s perceived image in an eclectic career for which genre definitions have merely been a polite suggestion. From his early days as the driving force behind the impressive Austin-based Bad Livers (a band of pioneering Americana missionaries), through a prolific solo career (which marked the development of his trademark 'folkTronics' project, a startling approach that incorporates digital technology and various effects pedals to stretch the tonal range of the instrument), Barnes has always listened to his proudly offbeat inner voice. On Rocket, Barnes continues to push the envelope and reinvent the wheel with the creation of the 'Barnjo'; a prototype of a hard body electric banjo with pickups that allow him to showcase his love for rock and roll, and his passion for melding genres together in a style that is quite frankly, all of his own making. “The label ‘true original’ gets bandied about too often these days, but Danny Barnes deserves it.” – PASTE MAGAZINE
“An eclecticism that’s nothing less than endearing and simultaneously visionary.” – ALL MUSIC GUIDE “One of the most wildly inventive musicians on the planet” – AUSTIN AMERICAN STATESMAN Dawes - VH1's Featured Artist of the Month
Dawes has been named VH1′s “You Oughta Know” band of October! In celebration, the band performed an intimate show at VH1′s Times Square offices in NYC. Catch this performance and more on Dawes’ VH1 page, and watch the NEW music video for “Time Spent in Los Angeles.” Dawes is hitting the road this fall, co-headlining a nationwide tour with their friends Blitzen Trapper (featuring special guests Belle Brigade & Smoke Fairies). CLICK HERE for tour dates. For the occasion, both bands are offering a free EP download and exclusive t-shirt/ticket bundles HERE CLICK HERE to purchase Nothing Is Wrong
Best of Times Available Nationwide NOW
Sara Hickman has always been dedicated to her community - musical and otherwise. As the State Musician of Texas, Sara used her enthusiastic efforts to help illuminate the importance and value of the arts in school. In response, more than 30 Texas music legends including Willie Nelson, Rhett Miller, Shawn Colvin, Robert Earl Keen and dozens more have come together to both pay tribute and add to her philanthropic endeavors with Best of Times - The Songs of Sara Hickman. Sales of this compilation CD, available nationwide, will benefit Theatre Action Project (TAP), a non-profit that brings art, music and theatre to the schools of Central Texas.
CLICK HERE to purchase Best of Times Kinky Friedman: Lighting Candles For America, City By City That's right, Kinky hits the road again this holiday season, on his 'Hanukkah Tour of 2011.' Beginning November 29th, Kinky will be visiting the midwest, west and southwest. CLICK HERE for tour dates.
On the road, Kinky will be selling his latest book, hawking tour posters and touting the impending arrival of his new, high grade, top shelf tequila. Perhaps more importantly, Kinky will finally be stepping into the twenty-first century with a new Kinky iPod Nano containing hundreds of his recordings and readings, and Kinky Jump Drives, each of which will hold three complete Kinky Friedman audio books (all read by Kinky himself). Limited editions of each will be available exclusively on the tour.
To promote and celebrate these new products and tour, stay tuned for a new Kinky "single" (a hilarious and poignant reading from one of the audio books) to be released to radio just in time for the holidays. An official signing party will occur after each performance, at which Kinky vows he will sign "anything but bad legislation." THIS JUST IN: You have TWO opportunities this winter to catch Kinky Friedman in Texas. Support the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch in Salado, TX.
November 26th Salado, TX The Springs Music Hall (w/ BJ Thomas)
December 17th Salado, TX The Springs Music Hall (w/ Rodney Crowell and Billy Joe Shaver)
For further info on the 'Hanukkah Tour' and all things Kinky, CLICK HERE
Lauren Shera Joins Communion Tour This Fall
Communion is the brainchild of Mumford & Sons’ Ben Lovett, his close ally, Kevin Jones, and renowned producer Ian Grimble. Born out of a London basement bar in 2006, Communion very quickly became the home to some of the U.K.’s most accomplished and praised young musicians, as well as the go-to team for promoting and encouraging fresh, emerging talent in London and beyond. Built solely on a freedom of expression, an ear for a tune and a celebration of exactly what the live music experience should be all about, Communion and its broad-minded, ever-evolving family have made light work of discovering and nurturing what MOJO calls a “new generation of songwriter.” The debut Communion North American Tour, in association with Daytrotter, will kick off on October 18 across nineteen dates in North America. The tour will feature London’s Matthew & The Atlas (longstanding members of the Communion family and regular Mumford & Sons tour buddies), Ohio born and Grammy-nominated The David Mayfield Parade and our own up-and-coming folk artist, Lauren Shera. CLICK HERE for dates, tickets, and more info! CLICK HERE to purchase Once I Was A Bird Across The Borderline Buzz Check out what folks are saying about the folk super-duo, Across the Borderline (featuring BettySoo and Doug Cox):
"BettySoo's voice is the perfect combination of strength, vulnerability and clarity while the sound of Cox's resophonic guitar shifts from delicate to strong. It is just perfect." - Americana-UK (10 stars) "BettySoo's voice is gorgeous -- soulful, tender and Cox's playing so sympathetic...BettySoo and Doug Cox absolutely nail it!" - Maverick Magazine (Live Show Review) "Although there are only the two of them on the CD, the album has a surprisingly full sound - the opening track...grabbed me immediately. There are no bad cuts on Lie To Me." - Country Music People (UK) (4 stars) "...the gauntlet has been thrown down and the benchmark set." - Flyin Shoes CLICK HERE for more quotes, reviews, and testimonials. CLICK HERE to purchase Lie To Me
Matt The Electrician Tours Japan
Matt The Electrician will perform across Japan with Scrappy Jud Newcomb and Bruce Hughes. CLICK HERE for the tour info, and check out the shows below:
10/14 Yokohama, Kanagawa Thumbs Up (Solo) 10/15 Kamakura, Kanagawa Cafe Goatee (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/16 Nasu, Tochigi SHOZO Ongakushitsu (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/17 Takaoka, Toyama Clover Hall (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/18 Kanazawa, Ishikawa Mokkiriya (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/19 Shizuoka, ShizuokaNouvelle Vibe (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/21 Matsuyama, Ehime Cafe Bleu (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/22 Koshien, Hyogo Joe-Guy (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/23 Nose, Osaka Cafe Kiyu (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) 10/25 Yokohama, Kanagawa Thumbs Up (w/ Scrappy Jud Newcomb & Bruce Hughes) CLICK HERE for Matt The Electrician's most recent DAYTROTTER SESSION.
CLICK HERE to purchase Accidental Thief Walt Wilkins WINS IBMA Song of the Year
Congratulations go out to Walt Wilkins! "Trains I Missed" (written by Walt Wilkins, Gilles Godard & Nicole Witt) was awarded "Song of the Year" at this week's International Bluegrass Music Awards. The song was performed live at the awards show (held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN) by Balsam Range, who received two additional IBMA nominations - Emerging Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year for Trains I Missed. Here's to you Walt...and to the 'moments we find ourselves right where we're suppose to be!'
CLICK HERE to purchase Diamonds in the Sun (featuring Walt Wilkins and the Mystiqueros version of "Trains I Missed)
CLICK HERE to purchase Agave Listen Up to Mike McClure!
Musically speaking, Mike McClure is a master of all trades. Artist, musician, songwriter, producer, mentor...these are his collection of hats he wears with a style all his own.
McClure was a founding member of The Great Divide. In 1995 they brought their own special brand of 'Red Dirt' to a national audience when they inked a deal with Atlantic Records. After a long and successful career with the band, McClure set out to do his own thing and formed the Mike McClure Band in 2004 with band mates Tom Skinner and Eric Hansen. McClure’s massive library of original songs is a thing of legend, and many of his gems have been commandeered over the years by a slew of other artists, from Garth Brooks to Cody Canada. As a songwriter and producer, McClure has collaborated with many other stellar artists including Cross Canadian Ragweed, Stoney LaRue, Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Scott Copeland, Johnny Cooper, Whiskey Meyers, Jerry Jeff Walker, Lloyd Maines, the Turnpike Troubadours and The Damn Quails.
Not one to sit back on his laurels, Mike has now added a new hat to his collection - Record Label Head. The Mike McClure Band’s brand new album 50 Billion will be released on 598 Recordings, McClure’s upstart indie label formed this year with partner Chance Sparkman. 50 Billion offers an original and genuine sound that is McClure’s calling card and validates his reputation as the consummate music man whose boundless talent operates like a machine. One listen to 50 Billion or any of McClure’s previous releases makes apparent that he could have never done anything else.
CLICK HERE for more about Mike McClure Bobby Long International Tour
Acclaimed British singer-songwriter Bobby Long returns to the road this fall both state-side and in Europe, playing over 40 shows in support of a new EP, The Backing Singer. The 5-song EP (available exclusively at shows) was recorded in a NYC church with producer Jesse Lauter (Low Anthem) and features guest vocals by The Secret Sisters, Cat Pierce (The Pierces) and singer/songwriter Dawn Landes.
CLICK HERE to purchase A Winter Tale
HalleyAnna's The Country NOW Available on iTunes
At last - HalleyAnna's The Country is available on iTunes! CLICK HERE to purchase your copy now. The Country is jumping up the charts, currently #26 on the Folk Roots Music Report. Get connected and stay up-to-date on all things HalleyAnna: Follow her on Twitter, Become a fan on Facebook, and get all your music need fulfilled on ReverbNation.
Catch HalleyAnna LIVE in your town! "...country with a distinctive Texas independent attitude." - San Antonio Express-News " With the nearly bottomless pool of talent in the Austin scene, it’s tough sometimes for even the most gifted to make their stand. But this strong debut by HalleyAnna shows she has the backbone, songwriting chops and musical craftsmanship she’ll need to take her place alongside the heavy-hitters of the Texas troubadour game." - Standard Examiner (Ogden, UT)
"Hearing HalleyAnna always makes me happy. She's like sunshine in a beautiful package. Every song she writes or sings is great, and her voice really, really sends me, and reminds me of so many of the great records I loved growing up." - Walt Wilkins
CLICK HERE to purchase The Country
Slaid Cleaves Soars Up Charts
Slaid Cleaves' Sorrow & Smoke - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge is currently #14 on the National Americana Chart (and CLIMBING), and #6 on the International Freeform American Roots Report. Slaid Cleaves, ever the consummate singer/songwriter of Americana, brings to life characters that create the ever changing tapestry of the world around us. Sorrow & Smoke - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge, captures the best of the Cleaves catalog, all wrapped up in the warmth of his live show. Cleaves returns from the UK to tour the Northeast this month. Check out the dates below for a show in your neck of the woods: 10/7 Framingham, MA Uncommon Coffee 10/8 Damariscotta, ME Darrows Barn Performance Center (at Round Top) 10/9 Ogunquit, ME Jonathan's 10/12 Larchmont, NY Watercolor Cafe 10/13 Northampton, MA Iron Horse 10/14 New York, NY Naked Soul 10/15 Chatham, NJ Sanctuary Concerts 10/16 Stony Brook, NY University Cafe 10/18 Arlington, VA IOTA Club and Cafe 10/19 Philadelphia, PA Tin Angel 10/20 Staunton, VA Mockingbird 10/21 Ashland, VA Ashland Coffee and Tea 10/22 Durham NC 40 Acres Concerts 10/23 Charlotte, NC The Evening Muse 10/25 Dallas, TX Rock House Films CLICK HERE to purchase Sorrow & Smoke - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge
Greezy Wheels Follows Up A Hot Summer With A Hot New EP, Greezo Extendo
Yes, it was a very hot summer in Texas, but it was even hotter for the Wheels, who charted for the first time in their career and then stayed on the charts all summer long. To make it a celebration for everyone, the band will make all four tunes available for free downloads (ONLY at their website) through the rest of the year. At the end of the year, they will be put back in the Greezy vault.
On October 10th, Greezy Wheels will release Greezo Extendo, three brand new cuts plus a remake of their Austin holiday hit, "Have A Greezy Holiday," into the wild! Listen for it on your favorite Triple A and Americana radio station. This will be the first national release for the holiday tune, which has gotten solid regional play for nearly a decade.
Catch Greezy Wheels at the Texas Book Festival on October 22nd, their last scheduled performance until the holiday season kicks into gear.
CLICK HERE to purchase Gone Greezy Ray Wylie Hubbard On The Road with Joe Walsh Ray Wylie Hubbard will make two special appearance with the great Joe Walsh this month. This dynamite combo will appear at Bass Concert Hall in Austin, TX on October 11th, and Verizon Wireless Theatre in Houston, TX on October 12th. If you're within a 500 mile radius, don't miss out on what's destined to be the "MUST SEE" show of the year!
If you could ask Ray Wylie Hubbard anything about his songs or songwriting, what would you ask? If you'd love to get his behind-the-song perspective on the inspiration and imagery, here's your chance: CLICK HERE with your questions for Hubbard, and he may answer them in his blog. CLICK HERE to purchase A. Enlightenment, B. Endarkenment (Hint, There Is No C.)
James McMurtry Featured on New Release - Dark River: The Songs of the Civil War
In observance of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, Blue Corn Music proudly presents the Dark River project, a unique anthology of public-domain songs from the Civil War era, impressively re-imagined by a diverse collection of A-list Austin singer/songwriters, including-to name a few - James McMurtry, Slaid Cleaves, Eliza Gilkyson, Jimmy LaFave and Jon Dee Graham. CLICK HERE to purchase your copy today.
Jenni Finlay Promotions Celebrates Five Years On Thursday, August 11th, an impressive lineup of national talent, including James McMurtry, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Will Sexton, Joe Pug, HalleyAnna, Matt the Electrician, BettySoo, and Owen Temple took the stage to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Jenni Finlay Promotions. I could write a THOUSAND words, but instead, CLICK HERE for pictures!
CLICK HERE for more about Jenni Finlay Promotions
Bobby Long Releases New Single
In anticipation of his upcoming US tour, Bobby Long unleashes his single, "Dead and Done" this month. Listen for it on your favorite radio station. CLICK HERE to see his live/acoustic performance of "Dead and Done" (via Burberry Acoustic). Since its release, Bobby Long’s debut record, A Winter Tale, has received widespread critical acclaim, The Wall Street Journal describes it as, “a spirited, thoroughly enjoyable folk-blues collection featuring his gritty singing and well-crafted songs,” while the Los Angeles Times asserts, “…a sound that’s redolent of many classic folk recordings as well as contemporaries like Damien Rice and Mumford & Sons.” CLICK HERE for upcoming tour dates, and don't miss a show near you!
Slaid Cleaves Takes The World By Storm
It only took Slaid Cleaves' new release, Sorrow & Smoke - Live at the Horseshoe Lounge, a mere two weeks to crack the TOP 40 of the Americana Music Chart. Currently # 30 on the National AMA Chart, #6 on the International FAR Report (and climbing!), this incredible double-disc live album is already a top favorite among fans and critics. Sorrow & Smoke will be available everywhere Tuesday, September 6th, but CLICK HERE to pre-order your copy today.
Slaid hits the road this month, performing across the West Coast. CLICK HERE for details.
Check out some of the early reviews for Sorrow & Smoke:
"...full of stories and songs that will make any listener a fan of his music." - Meridian Record-Journal
"Sorrow & Smoke puts listeners in the big middle of the Slaid Cleaves live action. That's a good place to be." - Jim Beal Jr, San Antonio Express-News
"Whether you are a fan or just seeking some new and sophisticated music in the folk tradition, Sorrow & Smoke: Live At The Horseshoe Lounge is an album for you." - Blogcritics
Follow Matt The Electrician From Alaska to California
Matt The Electrician has spent the summer traveling around the nation, performing his amazing live show and collecting new friends and fans everywhere he goes. Check out the schedule below and be sure to catch Matt when he's in YOUR neck of the woods:
9/2 Ketchikan, AK Arctic Bar
9/3 Ketchikan, AK The North Tongass Community Club 9/9 Sisters, OR Sisters Folk Festival
9/10 Sisters, OR Sisters Folk Festival
9/11 Sisters, OR Sisters Folk Festival 9/14 Eugene, OR Cozmic Pizza
9/15 Portland, OR The Woods 9/17 Philomath, OR Harris Bridge Vineyard 9/18 Redding, CA Vintage Wine Bar 9/20 Arcata, CA CenterArts/Humboldt State University 9/22 Sacramento, CA Scaramento Has Soul Benefit 9/23 Seaside, CA The Alternative Cafe 9/24 San Francisco, CA KC Turner House Concert Series 9/26 Felton, CA Don Quixote's International Music Hall
Dawes Fall Tour and FREE Offer
CLICK HERE to check out this incredible video of the great Jerry Douglas perform with Dawes (during their latest tour with Alison Krauss and Union Station). Dawes is hitting the road again this Fall, co-headlining with their friends Blitzen Trapper (featuring special guests Belle Brigade & Smoke Fairies). For the occasion, both bands are offering a free EP download and exclusive t-shirt/ ticket bundles. Visit Dawes' website for more info and ticket links CLICK HERE for tour dates. CLICK HERE for Dawes' recent World Cafe appearance.
HalleyAnna's The Country Available This Month
HalleyAnna's brand new release, The Country, will be available September 20th. But if that's too long to wait, for a limited time, she's offering a FREE MP3 DOWNLOAD of "Tonight!" - CLICK HERE to get yours Today!
HalleyAnna's first full-length album, The Country, produced by Corby Shaub (Ryan Bingham), is rich with honesty and emotion that is as refreshing as it is unique. The Country celebrates HalleyAnna's songwriting skills, as well as some of Americana's most talented musicians. CLICK HERE to stay up to date on all things HALLEYANNA.
James McMurtry Canadian Tour
James McMurtry will take to the Trans-Canada highway this month, performing across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. He returns stateside where he and his band will continue on their epic tour, teaming up later this fall with Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit for an incredible co-bill. CLICK HERE for all tour dates, and don't miss a show near you.
James is giving away a FREE MP3 this month. Join the McMailing list on www.jamesmcmurtry.com, and grab your free copy of his LIVE version of "We Can't Make it Here" (and be the first to receive info, updates, and special offers direct from James McMurtry.) Lauren Shera Once I Was a Bird
Shera’s brand new record, Once I Was A Bird, is in stores NOW! CLICK HERE to purchase. Shera's beautiful Once I Was A Bird has listeners hanging on every word! The album’s lush sounds and beautiful temperament are complimented with guest performances by Abigail Washburn, and Kristin Hersh (Throwing Muses). CLICK HERE to watch Shera's video for "Endless Sea," (recently featured as the AOL Spinner Video of the Day). Check out Lauren Shera LIVE from Paste HERE.
“… a special, fresh spin on classic folk…” - Consequence of Sound
"A major talent lying in wait....Her world-weary ruminations exude wisdom far outpacing her years on this planet" - My Old Kentucky Blog "poignant, introspective songwriting" - Direct Current Lincoln Durham Hits The Road
Lincoln Durham has just finished his next release, The Shovel vs The Howling Bones (due out January 2012), and has plans to hit the road this month. A musician's musician, Lincoln captures the grit and grove of the great blues and roots legends that came before him. Ray Wylie Hubbard raves, "If you dig Son House and Townes Van Zandt... Lincoln Durham is your man. Don't come no cooler." If you haven't seen Lincoln Durham perform LIVE yet, CLICK HERE to find a show near you.
Travels With Charlie Tour
On January 1st, 2010, Charlie Faye pulled out of her hometown of Austin, Texas, to embark on a modern bohemian adventure. In 10 months, Charlie made her home in 10 different towns; starting a new band in each town, performing live and recording a new song. Charlie's tour was more like John Steinbeck's famous meandering road trip with his dog than a musician's mad dash across the country. Instead of landing in a city, playing a show, then taking off the next day, Charlie spent a month getting to know the people and personality of each place she made her home. At the end of the year, Faye had a beautiful tapestry of songs she put together for her brand new album, Travels With Charlie. Featuring members of Calexico, The Eagles, Lil' Band O' Gold, Navarro (Carole King's band from the 70s), Malcolm Burn (Emmylou Harris), Warren Storm, Dave Way (Michael Jackson), Paul Bryan (Aimee Mann), Brian MacLeod (Sheryl Crow, John Hiatt), Ian Moore (Jason Mraz), Kenny Vaughan (Lucinda Williams), Will Sexton, and Chris Scruggs, Travels With Charlie is AVAILABLE NOW.
Charlie hits the road this month. CLICK HERE for tour dates and be sure to catch Charlie Faye LIVE when she travels to your town.
CLICK HERE for Charlie Faye's recent LIVE performance on KUT-Austin.
Across The Borderline Heads Across the Pond
As part of their "(some parts of the) World" Tour, the super-duo, Across the Borderline (Featuring BettySoo and Doug Cox) travel to the UK this month, for an intensive 15-day tour. Check out the tour dates below, and don't miss Across the Borderline LIVE:
9/9 Buckingham - Radcliffe Centre with Sam Baker
9/10 Barnsley, House Concert
9/11 Clerkenwell / The Appletree / Come Down and Meet the Folks
9/12 BBC Radio2 with Bob Harris
9/13 House of Mercy (taping) London / The Green Note, Camden
9/14 Chichester / The Chichester Inn
9/15 Songs from the Shed with Jon Earl / The Afternoon Show, BBC Radio Bristol
9/16 Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Live Theatre with Sam Baker
9/17 East Yorkshire, Beverley, House concert
9/19 Leicester, The Musician
9/21 Edinburgh, Scotland / House Concert
9/22 Kilbarchan, Scotland, The Old Library
9/23 Glasgow, Scotland - Laurie's Acoustic Music Bar
9/24 Saltburn Community Theatre, Saltburn-by-the-Sea
9/25 Hawick, Scotland - Heart of Hawick auditorium
"Simply perfect"...CLICK HERE to read the stellar AmericanaUK review of Across The Borderline's Lie to Me.
Rod Picott Shoots New Video
Rod Picott is currently shooting the upcoming video for "Welding Burns." Stay tuned for details and release date. Picott continues his Cross-American tour this month - CLICK HERE for a show near you.
Check out what folks are saying about Welding Burns: "The beautiful but bleak tales speak eloquently to working class hardships today" - Nate Dow/ Boston Herald
"A fantastically deep and layered album that manages to get better with each listen...on our shortlist for best albums of 2011" - Matt Bjorke /Roughstock "No current country star can top Rod's commitment to zero in on the body-battering and spirit bruising experiences of the skilled laborer-especially on his new album, Welding Burns"- Jewly Hight/Nashville Scene "Everything Picott touches turns to gold here" - Jason MacNeil/Country Standard Time "This is quite simply another blue collar classic from Maine's finest songwriter"- Arthur Wood/Maverick Magazine UK "An album for our times" - The Irish Times UK
Listen Up To Slaid Cleaves! In 1991, when Slaid Cleaves moved from Portland, Maine to Austin, Texas, he landed mere blocks from the notoriously seedy Horseshoe Lounge. Though, as he points out on his new live album, "It was many years of drivin' by before I worked up the courage to come in through the door." It didn't take long for curiosity to get the best of him and in 2000, Slaid memorialized the 46-year-old beer joint, releasing the popular "Horseshoe Lounge," on his breakout CD Broke Down.
...Now, 20 years after his Southwest migration, Slaid Cleaves is releasing his very first live album - a double disc, no less - titled Sorrow & Smoke: Live at the Horseshoe Lounge. Sorrow & Smoke fully conveys the spirit of an intimate yet jovial crowd ...Clinking beer bottles. Laughter. Sing-alongs. Good-natured heckling... and captures, quite perfectly, Slaid's incredible live show.
Jenni Finlay Promotions Celebrates 5th Anniversary
On Thursday, August 11th, an impressive lineup of national talent, including James McMurtry, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Will Sexton, Joe Pug, Matt the Electrician, BettySoo, Owen Temple will take the stage to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Finlay’s notable Americana and Triple A radio promotions company, Jenni Finlay Promotions, at Cheatham Street Warehouse in San Marcos, TX. Sponsored by top Americana station, KNBT, tickets are available NOW! On August 11th, Join KNBT for a LIVE REMOTE at Cheatham Street Warehouse from 5-7pm (featuring a FREE performance by Lincoln Durham)
Then, starting at 8:30, stick around for:
Owen Temple BettySoo
Ray Wylie Hubbard
Matt The Electrician Will Sexton Joe Pug James McMurtry CLICK HERE to purchase tickets today!
Dawes On Tour With Alison Krauss
Dawes hits the road this month, supporting Alison Krauss. If you're within a 300 mile radius, this is a must-see show:8/2 New York, NY The Beacon Theatre 8/3 New York, NY The Beacon Theatre 8/5 Gilford, NH Meadowbrook Pavilion 8/6 Mashantucket, CT MGM Grand Theatre 8/9 Bethlehem, PA Musikfest 8/11 Cary, NC Koka Booth Amphitheatre 8/12 Asheville, NC The Biltmore 8/13 Atlanta, GA Fox Theatre 8/19 St Augustine, FL Augustine Amphitheatre 8/20 Ft. Lauderdale, FL - AuRene Theatre 8/21 Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall 8/25 Memphis, TN Orpheum Dawes' latest release, Nothing Is Wrong, continues to soar up the charts, currently #17 on the Americana Chart, and is the Uncut Americana Album of the Month. According to Glide Magazine: "If the phenomenon of 'The Next Big Thing' remained in our age of Internet ephemera, Dawes would be the most likely candidate." With over 10,000 records sold in the first two weeks, it's not surprising. Check out what folks are saying:
"Dawes are an incredible young band. Their singer, Taylor Goldsmith, is a brilliant songwriter with very hip lyrics. He and his brother Griffin have one of those great familial harmony blends. You can't mention a record that the guys haven't listened to." - Jackson Browne "Most promising purveyors of new-school country folk...so authentically vintage" - Rolling Stone
"Wise beyond their years, nodding back to the folk-infused past of West Coast rock'n'roll (Neil Young, CSNY, Eagles) but refreshing it with a modern discordance that's pure Silverlake slack rocker." - Spin
Lincoln Durham Unveils Title of Next Release
The wait is almost over! Lincoln Durham is currently adding the finishing touches to his upcoming release, The Shovel vs The Howling Bones (due out January 2012). With a resonator, a slide and an old Gibson j45, his acoustic blues are sure to pull the darkness into the light. Once you hear the haunting voice and gripping grooves, you'll know that Lincoln Durham is exactly what we've been waiting for. CLICK HERE to check out Lincoln's recent MusicFog performance. CLICK HERE to read the recent feature in Twenty Something Magazine. CLICK HERE to catch Lincoln LIVE.
"If you dig Son House and Townes Van Zandt... Lincoln Durham is your man. Don't come no cooler."
-Ray Wylie Hubbard Lauren Shera Celebrates Once I Was A Bird
Shera’s brand new record, Once I Was A Bird, is in stores NOW! CLICK HERE to purchase. The album’s lush sounds and beautiful temperament are complemented with guest performances by Abigail Washburn, and Kristin Hersh (Throwing Muses). Already taking Americana, Triple A, and Folk radio by storm, listen for Once I Was a Bird on a station near you. CLICK HERE to watch Shera's video for "Endless Sea," recently featured as the AOL Spinner Video of the Day. CLICK HERE to watch her recent Paste Magazine performance. Shera will be celebrating her amazing release at the legendary Kuumba Jazz Center in Santa Cruz on August 26th. CLICK HERE for tickets. CLICK HERE for all Lauren Shera's tour dates. “… a special, fresh spin on classic folk…” - Consequence of Sound
"A major talent lying in wait....Her world-weary ruminations exude wisdom far outpacing her years on this planet" - My Old Kentucky Blog "poignant, introspective songwriting" - Direct Current Matt The Electrician Hits the Road
Matt The Electrician hits the road for a Northeast-Midwest tour this month. Check out the dates below, and don't miss a show near you:
8/2 Northhampton, MA Iron Horse Music Hall 8/3 Cambridge, MA Club Passim 8/4 Portland, ME One Longfellow Square 8/5 New York, NY The Living Room 8/6 Easton, MD NightCat 8/7 Washington, DC The Mansion 8/11 San Marcos, TX Cheatham Street Warehouse (JFP 5th Anniversary Party) 8/13 Austin, TX Threadgills (w/ Joe Pug) 8/16 Farmington, MO Bauhaus Kaffee 8/17 Chicago, IL Schuba's Tavern 8/18 Livonia, MI Trinity House Theatre 8/19 Iowa City, IA The Mill Restaurant 8/20 St. Paul, MN Gingko Coffeehouse 8/21 Duluth, MN Amazing Grace Bakery & Cafe 8/22 Madison, WI High Noon Saloon 8/23 Noblesville, IN House Concert 8/25 Boulder, CO Backforty Presents 8/26 Englewod, CO Moe's Original BBQ & Bowl 8/27 Castle Rock, CO Music On The Mesa House Concerts 8/28 Carbondale, CO Steve's Guitars 8/29 Ogden, UT Mojo's 8/30 Boise, ID The Reef Ray Wylie Hubbard In The Studio
After an phenomenal performance at Levon Helm's Midnight Ramble, Ray Wylie Hubbard is chompin' at the bit to record his highly anticipated upcoming record. Hubbard will be going into the studio this month. Schedule to be released in February 2012, stay tuned for details!
If you could ask Ray Wylie Hubbard anything about his songs or songwriting, what would you ask? If you'd love to get his behind-the-song perspective on the inspiration and imagery, here's your chance: CLICK HERE with your questions for Hubbard, and he may answer them in his blog. (The only questions that won't be passed along are: How can I get one of my songs to Ray so he will A.) Give it to Willie B.) Write the verses to this great chorus I have. Hint: (There is no C)). Listen Up To HalleyAnna!
Singer-songwriter HalleyAnna grew up around many of the legends of Americana and folk music, deep in the heart of Texas. HalleyAnna began playing music as a child alongside her brother and sister, looking up to female performers such as Emmylou Harris and June Carter. She got her start playing bars and coffeeshops around Austin at the ripe age of 12, and shortly after, began opening up for acts such as Todd Snider, Slaid Cleaves, and Hayes Carll. Soon, she got a feel for playing honky-tonks and dancehalls, where her keen songwriter's eye collected the characters and stories she'd sing about down the road.
HalleyAnna’s first full-length album, The Country, produced by Corby Shaub (Ryan Bingham), is rich with honesty and emotion that is as refreshing as it is unique. The Country celebrates HalleyAnna's songwriting skills, as well as some of Americana's most talented musicians. Featuring her band, The Tennessee Volunteers (HalleyAnna on vocals and guitar, her brother, Sterling Finlay on bass, Bryan Mammel on keys, Kullen Fuchs on lead guitar and trumpet, Jesse Ebaugh on steel guitar, and Dees Stribling on drums), The Country also features Corby Shaub on electric guitar and mandolin, Brady Black (Randy Rogers) on fiddle, and Ricky Ray Jackson (The Happen-Ins) on the steel guitar. Watch for it at the end of this summer. Rod Picott Welding Burns Buzz
Rod Picott's latest release, Welding Burns, is jumping up the charts, already #34 on the national Americana Music Chart, #4 on the International FAR report, and #32 on the Roots Music Report. Picott continues his tour, criss-crossing the United States this month - CLICK HERE for a show near you. Check out what folks are saying about Welding Burns: "The beautiful but bleak tales speak eloquently to working class hardships today" - Nate Dow/ Boston Herald
"A fantastically deep and layered album that manages to get better with each listen...on our shortlist for best albums of 2011" - Matt Bjorke /Roughstock "No current country star can top Rod's commitment to zero in on the body-battering and spirit bruising experiences of the skilled laborer-especially on his new album, Welding Burns"- Jewly Hight/Nashville Scene "Everything Picott touches turns to gold here" - Jason MacNeil/Country Standard Time "This is quite simply another blue collar classic from Maine's finest songwriter"- Arthur Wood/Maverick Magazine UK "An album for our times" - The Irish Times UK Rave Reviews for BettySoo and Doug Cox (Across The Borderline)
Across the Borderline blew everyone away at the 2011 Vancouver Island Music Fest. Folks were all abuzz about the super-duo, dubbing BettySoo and Doug Cox the take-home performance of the event. Across the Borderline has been receiving praise and acclaim around (some parts of) the world as they continue their "(some parts of the) World Tour." CLICK HERE to read the rave review in The Austin Chronicle. Check out their recent LIVE performance at The Cactus Cafe HERE. BettySoo and Doug Cox head across the pond for an intensive UK tour in September. CLICK HERE for tour dates. And just in case you still don't have your very own copy of Lie To Me, CLICK HERE to purchase today. "BettySoo has made a name for herself with calm stage presence, a powerful and versatile voice and deceptively relaxed rhythm guitar hand. Doug Cox can play the resophonic inside and out, but he plays it with such taste and control that the acoustic delivery of just two people, rhythm guitar, slide guitar, and voice was quite enough. Wow!" - JW McClure, Victory Music Charlie Faye Announces Travels With Charlie Tour
On January 1st, 2010, Charlie Faye pulled out of her hometown of Austin, Texas, to embark on a modern bohemian adventure. In 10 months, Charlie made her home in 10 different towns; starting a new band in each town, performing live and recording a new song. Charlie's tour was more like John Steinbeck's famous meandering road trip with his dog than a musician's mad dash across the country. Instead of landing in a city, playing a show, then taking off the next day, Charlie spent a month getting to know the people and personality of each place she made her home. At the end of the year, Faye had a beautiful tapestry of songs she put together for her brand new album, Travels With Charlie. Featuring members of Calexico, The Eagles, Lil' Band O' Gold, Navarro (Carole King's band from the 70s), Malcolm Burn (Emmylou Harris), Warren Storm, Dave Way (Michael Jackson), Paul Bryan (Aimee Mann), Brian MacLeod (Sheryl Crow, John Hiatt), Ian Moore (Jason Mraz), Kenny Vaughan (Lucinda Williams), Will Sexton, and Chris Scruggs, Travels With Charlie will be available later this month.
Charlie hits the road this month. CLICK HERE for tour dates and be sure to catch Charlie Faye LIVE when she travels to your town. James McMurtry Pays Tribute to Guy Clark
James McMurtry recently recorded two stellar tracks ("Cold Dog Soup" and iTunes exclusive, "Out In The Parking Lot") for the forthcoming compilation, This One's For Him: A Tribute To Guy Clark (in stores November 1). The collection was lovingly produced by Grammy-winning producer Tamara Saviano (Beautiful Dreamer: The Songs of Stephen Foster) - who is also working with Clark on his definitive biography - and frequent Clark co-writer Shawn Camp ("Sis Draper," "Magnolia Wind"). The double cd will also include the recordings of Ray Wylie Hubbard ("Homegrown Tomatoes"), Terri Hendrix ("The Dark"), Rodney Crowell, Lyle Lovett, Kris Kristofferson, Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, and more. CLICK HERE for info and updates.
James McMurtry is currently gearing up to record a new release of his own. Stay tuned for details!
Owen Temple Featured at Frio River Fest
Owen Temple will be performing at the Frio River Fest held in Concan, TX this weekend (August 4-6). Fourteen songwriters will perform, including Adam Carroll, Jason Eady, John Evans, Kent Finlay, Mark Jungers, Brennen Leigh, The McKay Brothers, Roger Marin, Ruben Moreno, Michael O'Connor, Will Sexton, The Weedhawks, and Owen Temple. There are just a few remaining Two Day Passes that Temple has available through his website. The Two Day Passes include admission to Friday night's cabin acoustic songswap show (limited to 75 people) and Saturday night's multi-artist band show at House Pasture Cattle Company. CLICK HERE for details.
Listen Up To Lauren Shera! “… a special, fresh spin on classic folk…” - Consequence of Sound
"A major talent lying in wait....Her world-weary ruminations exude wisdom far outpacing her years on this planet" - My Old Kentucky Blog "poignant, introspective songwriting" - Direct Current CLICK HERE to purchase Once I Was A Bird
BettySoo and Doug Cox Across The Borderline - AVAILABLE NOW "Last night I got the chance to play "Dublin Blues" from Bettysoo and Doug Cox on the show. Kudos! This amazing rendition is the best single track I have played all year. And the entire album is this strong!" - John Bates, WTSR
"Across The Borderline is a beautiful collaboration...choice covers and great performances. The takes on Guy Clark's "Dublin Blues" and Doug Sahm's "Louis Reil" slayed me." - Warren Catlett/Radio Free Americana "‘Lie to Me’...is a song I simply can’t hear enough." - Doug Heselgrave/NoDepression
"If Cox and BettySoo don't collaborate more it would be a shame - no lie." - Jim Beal/San Antonio ExpressNews.
CLICK HERE to purchase Lie to Me
Celebrate Independence with Ray Wylie Hubbard
Ray Wylie Hubbard will be joining Willie Nelson at his iconic 38th Annual 4th of July Picnic, held this weekend at Billy Bob's Texas Fort Worth Stockyards in Fort Worth, TX. Other featured artists include Ray Price, Asleep at the Wheel, Billy Joe Shaver, and more! CLICK HERE for tickets and additional info. Hubbard will be going into the studio to start recording his new record in August. In stores February 2012, stay tuned for details.
CLICK HERE to purchase A. Enlightenment, B. Endarkenment (Hint, There Is No C.) Joe Pug on A Prairie Home Companion
Joe Pug was recently the featured artist on A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor. If you didn't catch it live, CLICK HERE to listen. A Prairie Home Companion is heard by more than 4 million listeners each week on some 590 public radio stations, and abroad on America One and Armed Forces Networks in Europe and the Far East. For a limited time, Joe Pug is offering up FREE SONGS on his website, www.joepugmusic.com. CLICK HERE to listen to and download 4 songs from the Nation of Heat EP and Messenger! CLICK HERE to purchase Messenger See How Far Dawes Has Come
In case you missed it - CLICK HERE to watch Dawes latest Late Show with David Letterman appearance, June 27th.
Dawes is soaring up the Americana Music Chart - currently #20 and CLIMBING. And their brand new record, Nothing is Wrong, is flying off the shelves! In just one week, Dawes landed in the #1 slot on Street Pulse's Daily Independent Retail Sales Chart, and made their debut on the Billboard Top 100 Album Chart coming in at #63 - with over 7,000 albums sold! CLICK HERE to check out their most recent Daytrotter session. They kick off their summer tour this month, making their rounds on the Canadian Festival circuit. They return to the US next month, joining forces with Allison Krauss with Union Station, Bright Eyes, M. Ward, and Brett Dennen. CLICK HERE for all Dawes tour dates.
CLICK HERE to purchase Nothing Is Wrong Come Aboard...With James McMurtry
Seven days of music, adventure, relaxation, and amazing moments await you on board the 5th Annual Cayamo Cruise. This vibrant journey through song, where songwriters and their most passionate listeners are brought together on vacation, sets sail February 5-12, 2012 on the Norwegian Pearl from Miami to Cayo Levantado, St. Maarten and St. Barts. Featured artists include Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Shawn Mullins, John Prine, Loudon Wainwright III, and James McMurtry. CLICK HERE for details.
McMurtry continues his epic summer tour this month in the Mountain States. CLICK HERE to catch James McMurtry in your neck of the woods. CLICK HERE to purchase Live in Europe Kick Off The Summer With Matt The Electrician
At long last, Matt the Electrician's 10th album, Accidental Thief is IN STORES NOW! CLICK HERE to purchase today! ?To kick off the Summer season, CLICK HERE NOW to enjoy Matt The Electrician's video for "All I Know" - the undeniable feel-good hit of the Summer! Check out what Matt had to say about writing "All I Know":
"I was co-writing with Therese Aune from Norway, and her songs tend towards the darker side of things, so I thought it would be fun to bring a snappy upbeat banjo-ukelele part to the table. After she came to terms with that, we started working lyrically, and something came up about family road trips, which apparently they also do in Norway, although instead of driving to Disneyland, they drive to Spain. So we wrote the verses together using imagery from our memories of those trips. Then I suggested the chorus, remembering that feeling, when you're like 11 or 12, and you don't really want to be on the family vacation, but you're also still pretty young, and you see that cute girl at the miniature golf place, and you fall in love on the spot, and you'll never see her again, or know her name, but it doesn't matter...in fact, nothing else matters but that feeling at that moment." CLICK HERE to purchase Accidental Thief Life Imitates Art - Rod Picott Broke Down
Note From Rod: "Broke Down cracked and shattered left my Jeep in Waynesboro VA and got ripped off by the car rental company after spending 6 hours changing out the radiator to find I also have a blown head gasket...a great tour comes to a tough end..."
We are hoping to help Rod raise the funds to repair the Jeep (still "cracked and shattered" in the middle of Virginia) and pay for the rental car thatgave him a bum ride. Rod's generous friends and fans have already raised more than $988. If you'd like to help, CLICK HERE to donate.
In spite of it all, Rod Picott continues to push forward, as he crisscrosses around the country, traveling and performing, collecting friends, fans, and followers everywhere he goes. His new release, Welding Burns, is currently #36 on Americana Music Chart, #31 on the Roots Music Report, and #4 on the Freeform American Roots Chart. CLICK HERE to watch his recent studio appearance on Voice of America. CLICK HERE to read the stellar No Depression review. CLICK HERE for a show near you. CLICK HERE to purchase Welding Burns Lincoln Durham New Release
The wait is almost over! Lincoln Durham is currently adding the finishing touches to his highly anticipated upcoming release (due out January 2012). CLICK HERE to check out Lincoln's recent MusicFog performance. With a resonator, a slide and an old Gibson j45, his acoustic blues is sure to pull the darkness into the light. Once you hear the haunting voice and gripping grooves, you'll know that Lincoln Durham is exactly what we've been waiting for. CLICK HERE to catch Lincoln LIVE.
"If you dig Son House and Townes Van Zandt... Lincoln Durham is your man. Don't come no cooler."
-Ray Wylie Hubbard CLICK HERE to purchase Lincoln Durham EP
Greezy Wheels Pick Up Steam CLICK HERE to purchase Gone Greezy
Owen Temple 4th of July Celebration and Giveaway
Two years ago, Owen Temple's fifth studio album, Dollars and Dimes, was released ahead of the Fourth of July weekend. Eleven songs about eleven characters, the concept album focused on hard times in different regions of North America. To celebrate the anniversary of the album's release (and the anniversary of its subject, America) all orders of his new album, Mountain Home, placed through OwenTemple.com in July will receive a bonus CD copy of Dollars and Dimes along with each order.
Mountain Home continues to receive international acclaim and praise. Currently #16 on the EuroAmericana Chart, No Depression raves, "Temple’s songs are sophisticated and enlightening, offering a view of the Texas west that’s akin to Dave Alvin’s meditations on mid-century California."
Owen takes to the highway this month, touring his home state of Texas. Check out the dates below and don't miss a show near you:
7/6 Austin, TX Threadgill's 7/8 Rocksprings, TX Private 7/9 Dallas, TX Sons of Hermann Hall 7/27 Fredericksburg, TX Hondo's 7/29 Houston, TX Heights Live 8/4 Concan, TX Frio River Song Festival 8/5 Concan, TX Frio River Song Festival 8/6 Concan, TX Frio River Song Festival 8/11 San Marcos, TX Cheatham Street Warehouse (Jenni Finlay Promotions 5th Anniversay Party) 8/20 Austin, TX Private 8/25 New Braunfels, TX Gruene Hall "Playing off North America’s regions, travel album delivers concept richly. It’s a perfect soundtrack for an Independence Day weekend." - Dave Hoekstra, Chicago Sun-Times
Gurf Morlix To Perform Vancouver Island Music Fest
Gurf Morlix is headed north for the Vancouver Island MusicFest July 8-11. The phenomenal lineup will also feature performances by Allison Krauss with Union Station, Randy Newman, BettySoo, Rodney Crowell, David Crosby..the list goes on and on! CLICK HERE for tickets and all festival information.
Gurf Morlix has been nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year for the 2011 Americana Music Awards! The 10th Annual Americana Music Awards will be held during the Americana Music Festival (October 12-15). Please check @americanafest on Twitter and become a friend on Facebook for further updates. Check out what folks are saying about Gurf Morlix's latest release, Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream HERE. CLICK HERE to purchase Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream
Lisa Morales' Beautiful Mistake
Lisa Morales just returned from the road, where she shared the stage with Hayes Carll. CLICK HERE to read the outstanding review of her latest release, Beautiful Mistake, in The Austin Chronicle.
Folks are still discovering this moving and poignant record. Check out the latest buzz about Beautiful Mistake: "This is one of the most beautiful records that will be released all year. An absolutely flat-out devastating and stunning work of art." - Richard Skanse, Lone Star Music Magazine
"Americana at it's finest!" - Shayne Hollinger, 95.9 The Ranch "Lisa Morales...proves that she can hold her own as both a singer and a songwriter. As if there were any doubt." - Tom Geddie, Buddy Magazine "Make no mistake, Lisa Morales' Beautiful Mistake is the masterwork of a songwriter taking life's tragedies - its disappointments and those desperate midnight-hour stares into the soul - and turning them into personally cathartic, yet universally reverberating songs." - Gleason Booth, Texas Music Extra "Morales proves that from some of our darkest moments come some of our finest!" - Chuck Dauphin, Music News Nashville Listen Up: Jenni Finlay Promotions Celebrates 5th Anniversary
On August 11, an impressive lineup of national talent, including James McMurtry, Will Sexton, Joe Pug, Matt the Electrician, BettySoo, Owen Temple, and more will take the stage to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Finlay’s notable Americana and Triple A radio promotions company, Jenni Finlay Promotions, at Cheatham Street Warehouse in San Marcos, TX. Tickets are available NOW! CLICK HERE to purchase.
Listen Up To Across The Borderline! Gurf Morlix Nominated for Americana Music Honors & Awards INSTRUMENTALIST OF THE YEAR
Congratulations, Gurf Morlix! Gurf is nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year for the 2011 Americana Music Awards! The 2011 Americana Music Award Nominees were announced at the Gibson Showroom in New York City, and featured special appearances by Rosanne Cash, Jim Lauderdale, and Levon Helm. If you are a member of the Americana Music Association, be sure to check your email for the ballot to VOTE! If you're not, CLICK HERE for information about how to become a member.
The 10th Annual Americana Music Awards will be held during the Americana Music Festival (October 12-15). Please check @americanafest on Twitter and become a friend on Facebook for further updates. Check out what folks are saying about Gurf Morlix's latest release, Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream HERE.
Matt The Electrician In Stores June 14
Matt the Electrician's highly anticipated new release, Accidental Thief, hits the shelves Tuesday, June 14th!
Until two years ago, Matt the Electrician had never tried co-writing. In 2009, Matt joined forces with The House of Songs (a collaborative songwriting exchange between Denmark and Austin, TX) and spent much of the next year co-writing songs with Danish musicians. He was subsequently invited, in May of 2010, to be a part of The Nordic Co-Writers, a three day intensive co-writing workshop at a 16th century haunted castle in the Danish countryside. The workshop brought together writers from Austin, Iceland, Norway, Denmark and The Faroe Islands in the name of collaborative creation. Six of the twelve songs on his new CD, Accidental Thief, are co-writes; and five of those were written at Engelsholm Castle, in Denmark. Continuing in the tradition of his last release, Animal Boy, the new CD was recorded at The Aerie Studio in Austin, TX in January of 2011, and co-produced by Matt and Mark Addison. Check out the video for feel-good summer song, “All I Know” HERE.
Owen Temple Buzz
Owen Temple's new release, Mountain Home, is receiving praise and acclaim around the world. No Depression raves, "Temple’s songs are sophisticated and enlightening, offering a view of the Texas west that’s akin to Dave Alvin’s meditations on mid-century California." CLICK HERE to read the Austin Chronicle review. CLICK HERE to read the Americana Roots review. Owen hits the road this month, performing around the great state of Texas (including the Frio River Song Fest with Will Sexton, Adam Carroll, Jason Eady, and more!) Check out the tour dates below, and don't miss a show near you: 6/1 San Marcos, TX Hill Country Knights Musicians in the Round @ Sacred Passages 6/2 Corpus Christi, TX House of Rock 6/10 The Woodlands, TX Dosey Doe 6/11 Bryan, TX Lakeside Icehouse 6/17 Goliad, TX Schroeder Hall 6/25 San Marcos, TX BIGFest @ Cheatham Street Warehouse 7/2 League City, TX JEBFEST @ Hugh & Jeff's 7/8 Rocksprings, TX Private 7/9 Dallas, TX Sons of Hermann Hall 7/27 Fredericksburg, TX Hondo's 7/29 Houston, TX Heights Live! 8/4 Concan, TX Frio River Song Festival at House Pasture Cattle Company 8/5 Concan, TX Frio River Song Festival 8/6 Concan, TX Frio River Song Festival at House Pasture Cattle Company 8/11 San Marcos, TX Jenni Finlay Promotions 5th Anniversary 8/20 Austin, TX Private 8/25 New Braunfels, TX Gruene Hall Greezy Wheels Pick Up Speed
After an amazing start at Americana radio, the early reviews on Greezy Wheels' Gone Greezy are just now coming in. Everybody is digging the new record. The Wheels are so excited, they're shooting a multi-camera live performance video at Austin's legendary Saxon Pub on the afternoon of June 12th, and they are returning to the studio in June to record an EP follow-up to the new CD. And, yes, rumors are in the wind about a return to the east coast and Levon's Midnight Ramble. Stay tuned!
"In what I can only describe as Dan Hicks meets Frank Zappa, “Gone Greezy” captures the delightful musicality, the endearing sense of humor, and the beautiful spirit of these people and the wonderful music they make. I dare you to listen to any of the songs on this album and hold back a smile or keep your foot from tapping. Superb record!" - Wildman Steve, Wildman Steve Internet Radio "Right off the bat, Lissa Hattersley takes command with the opening track Don't Come Home When You're Mad At Me. With a 1920s jazz quality to her vocals and the authority of a 1970s punk rocker, the energy in her voice will leaving you thinking “whoa, I'm glad I'm not that guy!” With track 2, we switch gears and Cleve Hattersley takes over vocals. Whereas Lissa's voice has a certain jazz appeal, Cleve's vocals have a nice bluesy quality to them. And as the principal writer, Cleve has a great knack for writing catchy hooks and riffs. Overall, Gone Greezy contains a lot of hits....." - Rusty Hogan, Americana Roots "Cleve Hattersley, the post-hippy child of beatniks, is the intellectual, writing clever, witty and sardonic lyrics, splitting the vocals with sister Lissa and ‘Greezette’ Penny Jo Pullus, and, in a fairly radical but effective departure, making them the center pieces of Americana-esque guitar and fiddle settings, the latter instrument, of course, played by the wonderful Sweet Mary..." - John Conquest, 3rd Coast Music "We LOVE them....very special!" - WMUD, Burlington, VT Listen Up to Dawes!
A self-described “American rock ‘n’ roll band,” the critically acclaimed Los Angeles-based Dawes represent everything pure and true about that fundamental delineation, four talented friends making music together, fueled by a shared belief in the power of their songs. Their highly anticipated album, Nothing is Wrong (ATO), set for release on June 7. With Nothing Is Wrong (featuring appearances by Jackson Browne and Benmont Tench), singer/guitarist Taylor Goldsmith, his brother Griffin on drums, keyboardist Tay Strathairn, and bassist Wylie Gelber – continue to master their blend of singer/songwriter reflection with folk, country, and AOR-inspired arrangements, all ringing guitars, soaring harmonies, and heartfelt melodies. CLICK HERE to check out Dawes' Daytrotter session. CLICK HERE to watch Dawes' video premier (via Paste). Dawes are on the road now - CLICK HERE for tour dates.
Rod Picott Debuts on FAR Chart at #1
Rod Picott's brand new release, Welding Burns, made it's debut on the Freeform American Roots Chart at #1! This week, he debuted on the Americana Music Chart's TOP 40! Welding Burns will be in stores June 7th, and Picott's hitting the road to celebrate. Be sure to catch Rod when he's in your neck of the woods:
6/3 Cabin John, MD Derick Moore House Concert
6/4 Scotch Plains, NJ Split Level House Concerts 6/5 Shirley, MA Bull Run 6/9 Ahsland, VA Ashland Coffee and Tea 6/11 Atlanta, GA Atlanta House Concert
6/15 Cape Girardeau, MO Dockside 6/16 Austin, TX Cactus Cafe (w/ Slaid Cleaves) 6/17 San Marcos, TX Cheatham Street Warehouse 6/24 San Marcos, TX BIGFest @ Cheatham Street Warehouse 6/25 Houston, TX Anderson Fair 6/26 Austin, TX Flipnotics 6/29 Oklahoma City, OK The Blue Door 6/30 Lubbock, TX The Blue Light
Best of Times Stellar Review "In conceiving an album meant as a fundraiser benefiting a favorite charity, specifically the most worthy Theater Action Project, Sara Hickman gives fans and newcomers alike something to savor, with more than three dozen songs spread across two discs, all of which have been culled from her catalog and covered by an impressive array of contributors."
CLICK HERE to read the latest review of Best of Times in No Depression.
Best of Times - this amazing collection of Sara's own songs, recorded by Texas music legends including Willie Nelson, Shawn Colvin, Brave Combo, and dozens more, benefits the Theatre Action Project. CLICK HERE for more info about Theatre Action Project.
James McMurtry Kicks off Summer Tour
James McMurtry is gearing up for his extensive summer tour with shows across the nation (with performances in California, Kentucky, Montana, Maine, New York, Colorado, Idaho, and more!) CLICK HERE for all tour dates, and don't miss a show near you.
In case you missed it: Check out James McMurtry's video for "Memorial Day" (off his recently re-released album, Childish Things) CLICK HERE to read the stellar reviews on McMurtry's Childish Things and Live in Aught-Three.
Bobby Long at Bonnaroo
Bobby Long will be performing at this year's SOLD OUT Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, held June 10th in Manchester, TN. Other featured performers include: Robert Plant & Band of Joy; Mumford & Sons; The Strokes; The Decemberists; Iron & Wine; Beirut; Gregg Allman; Buffalo Springfield (featuring Richie Furay); and many more! CLICK HERE to check out Bobby's performance on Philly's NBC 10! Show. CLICK HERE to see Long's LIVE performance of "Sick Man Blues" during BluesFest.
Listen Up To Matt The Electrician! Gurf Morlix's Blaze of Glory Gurf Morlix will tour the West Coast this month, performing and screening the celebrated Blaze Foley documentary, Duct Tape Messiah. CLICK HERE for tour dates. Check out what folks are saying about Gurf Morlix's Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream:
“Morlix's low gravelly laid-back growl is the perfect voice to interpret Blaze....late night listening for fans of Townes (Van Zandt)/Jon Dee Graham." - NoDepression.com
“Once you hear these songs so lovingly performed by Gurf Morlix in his inimitable way you'll know why Blaze Foley was considered a genius. This is one of the most poignant discs to cross this desk this year, and it is about time this artist got his due.” - AcousticMusic.com "It has been a long time in the making but it has been worth every minute of the wait." - Americana-UK
"...Foley's legacy is in good hands." - M Magazine
"Gurf Morlix puts himself inside these 15 songs as surely as if he’d been there when they were created. From the minimal backup to haunting vocals, Blaze Foley is alive again, there to rattle the funny bone and yank on your heartstrings. For someone who held himself together with duct tape, it’s amazing what an undeniable impact his music made." - My Daily Find
CLICK HERE for more!
James McMurtry Kicks Off Extensive Summer Tour James McMurtry is gearing up for his extensive summer tour with shows across the nation (with performances in California, Kentucky, Montana, Maine, New York, Colorado, Idaho, and more!) CLICK HERE for all tour dates, and don't miss a show near you.
In case you missed it: James McMurtry's "Bayou Tortous" was featured on the FOX-TV series, Bones. CLICK HERE to watch the full episode, entitled "The Finder."
McMurtry's "We Can't Make it Here" is still making waves - it was recently cited in The Nation's "Best Protest Song Ever." CLICK HERE to read more.
This month, when he is not on the road, you can catch James McMurtry in Austin for his regular solo/acoustic show at the Continental Club Gallery every Tuesday, and his renowned (full band) midnight show each Wednesday at Austin's legendary Continental Club.
Sara Hickman - The Best of Times
This past year, Sara Hickman had the honor of being named the State Musician of Texas by the State Legislature (yes, she's like the Bluebonnet or the Horny Toad).
Sara has always been compassionate and eager to help her fellow musicians - pulling them from the shadows into the spotlight. So naturally, Sara took this opportunity to do just that, creating the labor-of-love compilation, The Best of Times, that brought together numerous Texas artists and musicians - both known and unknown. They all came together to be a part of this tapestry of beauty and art and music. Soon after recording The Best of Times, Sara teamed up with the Theatre Action Project - a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing art, music and theatre to Central Texas public schools. Their team of professionally trained artists and educators work in partnership with schools and communities to lead unique and engaging arts programs which allow young people to learn critical life skills, gain tools for creative expression and have successful experiences that build self-esteem and confidence. In a selfless and generous move, Sara is giving 100% of the profits of the sales of The Best of Times to The Theatre Action Project, in the hopes that ALL central Texas schools have these opportunities. CLICK HERE for more info about Theatre Action Project.
Lisa Morales - In Her Own Words Recently, Lisa sat down to give a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process and making of her new record, Beautiful Mistake. Here's a sneak peak:
I Am The Weakest
I wrote this to tell my husband something was wrong with our marriage. Sat him down to read it to him. His reaction was, “the married women are gonna love it!”
Fool I Am
Inherited my grandmother's baby grand piano after my Mother died. I wrote this on it the night it was delivered!
Learn How to Pray
...I didn’t know what to do when we found out my Mom was dying. It’s very helpless. I grabbed a rosary and couldn’t for the life of me remember what to do. It was kind of like--oh great, I haven’t been much of a Catholic and here I want something!
I Wanna Be In Love
I think you have to get to a point in your life where you know what you want and you say it ................out loud.
CLICK HERE to listen to these amazing songs, for shows near you, and everything you'd want to know about Lisa Morales!
Springtime For Kinky Tour
Musician, writer and former Texas gubernatorial candidate Kinky Friedman makes a rare Midwest and East Coast swing this spring. Check out the tour dates below, watch for Kinky in your city and listen for him everywhere!
5/1 Newport, KY Southgate House
5/2 Nashville, TN 3rd and Lindsley 5/3 Cleveland, OH Wilbert's 5/4 Toronto, ON St. Lawrence Center for the Arts 5/5 Milwaukee, WI Shank Hall 5/7 Berwyn, IL Fitzgerald's 5/8 Philadelphia, PA World Cafe Live 5/9 New York, NY Highline Ballroom 5/10 Easton, MD Avalon Theatre 5/13 Alexandria, VA Birchmere 5/14 Woodstock, NY Levon Helm's Midnight Ramble 5/15 Ringwood, NJ Live @ Drews House Concert 5/16 Piermont, NY The Turning Point Bobby Long Wows Australia
Bobby Long just wrapped up a two week Oz tour (including two performance at Byron Bay Blues Fest), where he won countless new fans, friends, and believers. Esquire Magazine named Long's "Who Have You Been Loving" (off his latest release, A Winter Tale) one of the 50 Songs Every Man Should Listen To. Long filmed a new video for new video for "Dead and Done" (to be released at the end of the month). Bobby Long will soon join Brett Dennon for dates in the North East. Be sure to get your tickets NOW for a Bobby Long show in your neck of the woods:
5/12 Dallas, TX Barefoot at the Belmont
5/15 Baltimore, MD Pier 6 Pavilion 5/17 Philadelphia, PA TLA (with Brett Dennon) 5/18 Boston, MA Royale (with Brett Dennon) 5/19 New York, NY Webster Hall (with Brett Dennon) 5/21 Washington, D.C. 9:30 Club (with Brett Dennon) This just in: Bobby has just been added to this year's Bonnaroo Festival (June 9-12)
Listen Up to Rod Picott!
Rod Picott is back with a beautifully crafted new CD. Picott's 7th release, Welding Burns is a fully realized songwriting marvel with characters so vivid the songs play like intimate 3 minute noir movies. Picott's ragged and soulful voice spins songs of loss, desire, rapture and work while pedal steel guitar winds elegantly throughout the album. Welding Burns is an album about scars of the skin and scars of the heart. Three songs, "Welding Burns," "Black T-Shirt," and "Rust Belt Fields" are co-written by Rod's longtime collaborator, Slaid Cleaves. Welding Burns is destined to be among your favorite records of 2011!
"Rod Picott's world weary songs glow with both self awareness and humility. The truth of who we are is slippery, hard to contain, and most people have very little interest in it. Nonetheless, it is the work of an artist to find that truth and show it to us in ways that we'll see it. Welding Burns, Rod's new collection of songs, is a fine example of an artist doing just that. The songs on this record reflect the realities of the time we live in, and they contain hard truths. The songs are both beautiful and disturbing, and are the work of an artist who deserves to be heard. I hope he sells a million copies." - Mary Gauthier
"Beautiful and heartbreaking songs-one of the best on the Americana and folk scene" - Slaid Cleaves Owen Temple In Stores Now
After two years of writing, recording, mixing, mastering, and designing (requiring the efforts of more than 25 brilliant artists), Owen Temple's brand new release, Mountain Home, is available NOW! To celebrate, Temple is offering a FREE MP3 DOWNLOAD on his website, www.owentemple.com. Folks are already buzzing about Owen Temple - "Austin's best kept secret." Mountain Home is soaring up the charts, and has been among Americana's Top 5 Most Added Titles for the two weeks since its radio debut. CLICK HERE to read the incredible review in No Depression.
CLICK HERE to purchase Mountain Home (for a limited time, 100% of profits on orders through Owen's website will go to the Jeff Davis County Relief Fund and to the State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund to help with the Texas Wildfire Relief Fund)
Ray Wylie Hubbard Grit and Groove Wrap-Up
Ray Wylie Hubbard's 3rd Annual Grit n Groove Festival was a magical day to remember, filled with incredible songs and powerful performers. Held on April 2nd at Whitewater Music Amphitheatre, Hubbard was joined by a funky group of friends and heroes, including Joe Walsh, Chris Robison, The Gourds, Tony Joe White, Teenie Hodges, Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights, The Trishas, Matt King, Charlie Shafter, and Lincoln Durham. Read Hubbard's recent blog about the show HERE.
Hubbard will hit the road this month, touring the midwest. Check out the dates below for a show near you: 5/5 Austin, TX Shady Grove
5/6 Dallas, TX The Granada Theatre 5/14 Temple, TX Azalee Marshall Cultural Activites Center 5/15 Spring, TX Texas Crawfish Festival 5/18 Fort Worth, TX 8.0 5/19 Fayetteville, AR George's Majestic Lounge 5/20 Van Buren, MO The River Center 5/21 Van Buren, MO The River Center 5/22 Memphis, TN Levitt Shell at Overton Park
Greezy Wheels Available NOW
The new Greezy Wheels release, Gone Greezy, is now available! With the upcoming in-store performance and CD release party at Austin's legendary Waterloo Records on May 17th (5:00PM), high profile concerts, and radio appearances all over central Texas, the Greezy Wheels are revving up to rock this summer! CD's can now be purchased at all the major web sites, including iTunes and CD Baby, or you can buy them direct through www.greezywheels.com. Better yet, come see the band at Waterloo on the 17th and buy them there. Or, if you just want to hear some of the best cuts, go to 'Sounds Greezy' at www.greezywheels.com. Seek and ye shall find! The word is already getting out on this record - CLICK HERE to read one of the first of many stellar reviews!
Dawes - Nothing Is Wrong
A self-described “American rock ‘n’ roll band,” the critically acclaimed Los Angeles-based Dawes represent everything pure and true about that fundamental delineation, four talented friends making music together, fueled by a shared belief in the power of their songs. Their highly anticipated album, Nothing is Wrong (ATO), set for release on June 7. With Nothing Is Wrong (featuring appearances by Jackson Brown and Benmont Tench), singer/guitarist Taylor Goldsmith, his brother Griffin on drums, keyboardist Tay Strathairn, and bassist Wylie Gelber – continue to master their blend of singer/songwriter reflection with folk, country, and AOR-inspired arrangements, all ringing guitars, soaring harmonies, and heartfelt melodies. CLICK HERE for more about Dawes >>BREAKING NEWS<< Kinky Friedman To Release Double Album Of All New Songs! The Kinkster has finally done it - he’s written new songs, and not just two or three, but thirty! And all his great friends, from Courtney Love to Bjork, have joined him on The Craft of the Songwriter, his first album of new songs since the seventies.
.....okay, we can’t even keep a straight face here - April Fool, y’all! No, Kinky still hasn’t written a new song, not since the me decade. Yes, he is touring this spring, but it’s a seventeen date tour of the midwest and east coast (‘Springtime For Kinky 2011’), and, yes, he is releasing an electronic single of "The Craft of the Songwriter," recorded live in Europe with Little Jewford. Not exactly a new song - or even a song, for that matter - but hilarious (and tres Kinky), nonetheless.
CLICK HERE for tour dates, watch for Kinky in your city and listen for him everywhere!
Listen Up To Owen Temple!
Mountain Home, the sixth studio record from Austin, Texas-based songwriter Owen Temple, is a beautiful collection of 10 songs that weave a tapestry of eccentric characters and rural landscapes. Recorded with producer Gabe Rhodes, the album has the feel of a live performance with amazing contributions from Charlie Sexton (Arc Angels, Bob Dylan), Bukka Allen (The Bodeans, Terry Allen), Tommy Spurlock (Delbert McClinton, Rodney Crowell), Rick Richards (Ray Wylie Hubbard, Gurf Morlix), Gordy Quist (Band of Heathens) and Jamie Wilson (The Trishas). Owen Temple is known throughout the US as a first-class songwriter and compelling performer. He is the winner of the B.W. Stevenson Songwriting Competition and finalist at the Kerrville Folk Festival's New Folk Competition. His previous records have received international praise, garnering airplay on radio stations throughout the US and abroad. Mountain Home, which captures the the stoic core of the desperate dreamer, is destined to be Owen Temple's strongest effort yet! CLICK HERE to pre-order Mountain Home Ray Wylie Hubbard’s 2nd Annual SXSW Grit ‘N Groove Hour with Billy Bob Thornton, Emmylou Harris, Jimmie Dale Gilmore & Slaid Cleaves
Texas Hill Country hero Ray Wylie Hubbard hosts an hour of music and conversation with Billy Bob Thornton, Emmylou Harris, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Slaid Cleaves, recorded during the recent SXSW Music Festival in Austin, TX, in the shed behind the home of Texas Music Office ambassador Casey Monahan. The 2nd annual “Grit ‘N Groove Hour” will feature intimate acoustic performances by Hubbard and Cleaves, and Harris and Gilmore will debut new music and discuss their forthcoming albums, while Thornton will talk about his new Willie Nelson documentary “The King of Luck” that premiered at SXSW. Tune into SIRIUS XM Outlaw Country (Sirius 63, XM 12) On-Air Time: Friday, April 1 8 pm ET. Rebroadcasts: Saturday, April 2 10 pm ET, Sunday, April 3 8 am ET; Monday, April 4 10 am ET; Tuesday, April 5 12 am ET. Ray Wylie Hubbard's 3rd Annual Grit n Groove Festival
Ray Wylie Hubbard's 3rd Annual Grit n Groove Festival will be held on April 2nd at Whitewater Music Amphitheatre. Once again, Hubbard brings together a funky groovin' line up featuring Joe Walsh, Chris Robison, The Gourds, Tony Joe White, Teenie Hodges, Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights, The Trishas, Matt King, Charlie Shafter, Lincoln Durham, and of course, the man himself - Ray Wylie Hubbard! CLICK HERE for tickets and details. Lisa Morales Buzz
CLICK HERE to see Lisa's recent performance at the International Folk Alliance Conference. CLICK HERE for tour dates, and don't miss a show! Check out what folks are saying about Lisa Morales' new release, Beautiful Mistake: "This is one of the most beautiful records that will be released all year. An absolutely flat-out devastating and stunning work of art." - Richard Skanse, Lone Star Music Magazine
"Americana at it's finest!" - Shayne Hollinger, 95.9 The Ranch "I suppose it's no mistake that this is a beautiful album." - Warren Catlett, Radio Free Americana "Lisa Morales...proves that she can hold her own as both a singer and a songwriter. As if there were any doubt." - Tom Geddie, Buddy Magazine "Make no mistake, Lisa Morales' Beautiful Mistake is the masterwork of a songwriter taking life's tragedies - its disappointments and those desperate midnight-hour stares into the soul - and turning them into personally cathartic, yet universally reverberating songs." - Gleason Booth, Texas Music Extra "Morales proves that from some of our darkest moments come some of our finest!" - Chuck Dauphin, Music News Nashville James Hyland and the Joint Cheifs New Video
CLICK HERE to watch the official music video for Hyland's "Lancelot and The Lady of Shalott" (off his latest, Celestial Navigation). CLICK HERE to check out James Hyland and the Joint Chiefs' video performance in Austin and don't miss his next live show. "If there's a betting pool for next big singer songwriter in Austin, James Hyland's name floats to the top." - Austin Chronicle Thanks to a huge fan response, James Hyland is extending the "Name Your Own Price" offer. CLICK HERE to purchase Celestial Navigation A Winter Tale Receives Critical Acclaim Since its release, Bobby Long’s highly anticipated debut record, A Winter Tale, remains on both Billboard’s Heatseekers and Folk charts (ATO Records). The album also continues to receive widespread critical acclaim, The Wall Street Journal describes it as, “a spirited, thoroughly enjoyable folk-blues collection featuring his gritty singing and well-crafted songs,” while the Los Angeles Times asserts, “…a sound that’s redolent of many classic folk recordings as well as contemporaries like Damien Rice and Mumford & Sons.” Long’s recent appearance at the 2011 SXSW Music Festival & Conference garnered even more critical attention—NPR Music’s Ann Powers reflects, “…the young folk singer Bobby Long, who spat out his songs as his hair flopped meaningfully in his face at a Friday night basement club gig, are lighting new fires under old clichés.” Long is currently in the midst of a nationwide tour in support of the record, including dates with Brett Dennen as well as part of the 2011 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival and the Dave Matthews Band Caravan in Atlantic City. CLICK HERE for a show near you!
“…rich and exceptionally well thought out while remaining raw.”—Philadelphia Inquirer
“…warm, husky voice, romantic folk-pop tunes and mature storytelling skills….”—USA Today The Coal Porters Plan California Tour in May Musician/writer/author/broadcaster Sid Griffin rose to fame in Los Angeles as leader of Island Recording Artists, The Long Ryders - one of the first bands of the alt-rock era to incorporate the influences of Gram Parsons and the Flying Burrito Brothers and the Byrds. Yet in recent years, he’s made his home in London, where he leads the Coal Porters. The band has played only a limited number of American shows since their formation in the ’90s. This spring, the Coal Porters will return to the scene of the crime — Los Angeles and the West Coast — where they will play three shows in the L.A. area, one in San Francisco and a coveted spot at the Stagecoach Festival on Sunday, May 1. 4/29 San Francisco, CA Hotel Crescent/Burrit Room Lounge
5/1 Indio, CA Stagecoach Festival (3 p.m. stage time) 5/2 Culver City, CA The Cinema Bar 5/3 Altadena, CA The Coffee Gallery 5/4 Echo Park, CA Taix, 321 Lounge Gurf Molix All A-Blaze
"Baby Can I Crawl Back to You" off Gurf's latest release, Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream, is among CMT's Top 20 Recommended Tracks. CLICK HERE to read this incredible review in My Daily Find. To date, Morlix has spent 2 full months at #1 on the Freeform American Roots Report, has hit #1 on the Euro-Americana Chart, and has been in the Top 10 of the Americana Music Chart for 10 weeks (and counting)! Gurf hits the road this month, performing in the southeast and midwest. Next month, he heads west for a run up the California coast. Check out the shows below, and be sure to catch Gurf Morlix the next chance you get:
4/15 Birmingham, AL Moonlight on the Mountain 4/16 Nashville, TN Douglas Corner Cafe 4/17 Chicago, IL Hideout 4/19 Charlotte, NC The Evening Muse 4/20 Durham, NC Casbah 4/21 Asheville, NC The Grey Eagle 4/22 Atlanta, GA Smith's Olde Bar 4/23 Carrollton, GA Lowell Opry House 4/26 Auburn, AL The Gnu's Room 4/29 Galveston, TX Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe 5/6 Santa Monica, CA McCabe's Guitar Shop 5/12 Colfax, CA Evangeline's 5/14 Winters, CA The Palms Playhouse 5/21 Austin, TX Greenhouse Concerts James McMurtry On The Air Around The World
James McMurtry continues to receive praise and accolades from around the world. CLICK HERE to read James McMurtry's latest narrative in Austin's Tribeza Magazine. CLICK HERE to watch James McMurtry recent interview and performance on Dallas' KXT. McMurtry's instudio performance at St. Louis' KDHX can be heard HERE. James McMurtry's "We Can't Make it Here" (off his recently re-released Childish Things) was featured as the Song of the Week on Iain Anderson Show on BBC Radio Scotland (which airs in over 150 countries) - CLICK HERE to tune in. James is gearing up for a West Coast Solo Tour later this month, but when he is not on the road, you can catch James McMurtry in Austin for his regular solo/acoustic show at the Continental Club Gallery every Tuesday, and his renowned (full band) midnight show each Wednesday at Austin's legendary Continental Club.
Ben Kweller on Tour with Pete Yorn
Ben Kweller hits the road again in February, touring with Pete Yorn. Check out the dates below for a show in your neck of the woods:
4/1 Seattle, WA Showbox 4/2 Vancouver, BC Commodore Ballroom 4/3 Portland, OR Wonder Ballroom 4/4 San Francisco, CA The Regency Ballroom 4/8 Las Vegas, NV Pearl Concert Theatre at the Palms Casino 4/9 San Diego, CA House of Blues 4/10 Anaheim, CA House of Blues 4/12 Tucson, AZ Rialto Theatre 4/14 Houston, TX House of Blues
4/15 Dallas, TX Granada Theatre
4/16 Austin, TX Stubb's Bar-B-Que
4/17 Oklahoma City, OK Diamond Ballroom 4/19 New Orleans, LA The Wellspring 4/21 Greenville, SC The Handlebar 4/22 Atlanta, GA Center Stage Theatre
4/23 Memphis, TN The New Daisy Theatre 4/26 Nashville, TN Wildhorse Saloon Graham Wilkinson Launches New Video Graham Wilkinson just released the official video for his brand new single, "Focus." CLICK HERE to check it out. Graham Wilkinson's last release, Yearbook, garnered international praise and popularity, earning Wilkinson fans and friends around the world. If you haven't discovered Graham Wilkinson yet, CLICK HERE for all upcoming LIVE tour dates, and don't miss a show near you! CLICK HERE to purchase Wilkinson's new single, "Focus"
Listen Up to Greezy Wheels!
Greezy Wheels. Legend. Three words that play together quite nicely, for Greezy Wheels truly is a legend, and their latest CD may well prove it, once and for all. In their first return to their guitar and fiddle based roots since their early Armadillo-era recordings for London Records, Gone Greezy delivers on the legend and promise of what was once called “progressive country” - the genre that spawned the likes of Willie and Waylon and Outlaw and Redneck Rock. The genre now called Americana. The quirky, yet somehow familiar songs, the dynamic vocals, the extraordinary slide and fiddle work - all speak to Ozarkian beginnings, mountain lilts and a greezy lifestyle. Gone Greezy is the very essence of Americana. Lifestyle is the very essence of Greezy Wheels. Greezy Wheels are the stuff of which legends are made.
CLICK HERE for more about Greezy Wheels The Best of Times Available NOW for Digital Download
As Texas State Musician of the Year, Sara Hickman is dedicated to raising awareness and funding for arts education programs in Texas schools. The Best of Times - this amazing collection of Sara's own songs, recorded by Texas music legends including Willie Nelson, Shawn Colvin, Brave Combo, and dozens more, benefits the Theatre Action Project. Physical copies of The Best of Times are available exclusively at Waterloo Records, but you can purchase your copy TODAY via digital download.
CLICK HERE to purchase The Best of Times Chris Gates Composes for New Film Gates is currently composing original music for Mike Dolan's new film, Dance With The One, an emotionally explosive thriller set in the troubled heart of Texas. CLICK HERE to watch his latest video of "Broken Hearts and Faded Pictures" (off his latest, Welcome to Gatesville). The highly acclaimed Welcome to Gatesville is the culmination of a process that started with a conversation back in 2006 between Chris and friends Jon Dee Graham and Ray Wylie Hubbard and continues now with Gates' solo debut. Recently, Chris sat down to give a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process and making of this incredible record. CLICK HERE to read.
Listen Up To The Best of Times! CLICK HERE for more details! CLICK HERE for more information about Theatre Action Project Check out what folks are saying about A Winter Tale: "...a sound that's redolent of many classic folk recordings as well as contemporaries like Damien Rice and Mumford & Sons." - Los Angeles Times "...warm, husky voice, romantic folk-pop tunes and mature storytelling skills..." - USA Today "...his old-before-his-time romanticism and strong rasp are real draws." Entertainment Weekly Jenni Finlay Promotions in Austin During SXSW Saturday, March 12 Wednesday, March 16 Thursday, March 17 Friday, March 18 Saturday, March 19 Sunday, March 20 Blaze Foley was a handful (to say the least), a bull in a china cabinet, an absolute life force all his own. He could go from being boisterous and loud to tender and sensitive in a heartbeat. Always one to push the line, his friends were few and far between, but those folks who could see past his rough exterior loved him unconditionally. Gurf Morlix was one of those friends. Of course, knowing Blaze as he did, when Gurf got the call about his murder, he wasn't really surprised. But he was (and has been ever since) heartbroken. Perhaps it was Blaze who inspired that unmistakable "Gurf" sound - that haunting empty sadness that Gurf adds so beautifully to every record he's ever been a part of. Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream is a labor of love that Gurf has always wanted to make. Years in the making, this record may be how Gurf is remembered for years to come. He used his magic touch, heart and soul, to create possibly the masterpiece of his career. The Coal Porters Make Hay in the USA "Americana at it's finest!" - Shayne Hollinger, 95.9 The Ranch James McMurtry Appears in New Film: Wanda The Wonderful James McMurtry hits the road this month, performing solo: Sara Hickman Stars in New Film Be sure to catch Sara Hickman LIVE: "If there's a betting pool for next big singer songwriter in Austin, James Hyland's name floats to the top." - Austin Chronicle Jenni Finlay Promotions at the Intertional Folk Alliance Conference Valentine's Cards Listen Up To Bobby Long! “Long is a master…" - Daytrotter “All his songs are like a well-orchestrated ballet of chord progressions and vocals that pluck at the deepest confined thoughts of your soul” - San Diego Entertainer Named 10 Artists To Watch in 2011 "With a little bit of Neil Young, the raw appeal makes Bobby undeniably easy to listen to." - New York Post Folk and Americana Albums to Watch for in 2011 - "Poised to be a darling of 2011" - NO DEPRESSION >>Be sure to catch Bobby Long on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Thursday, February 3rd<< Gurf Morlix IN STORES NOW: Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream “Morlix's low gravelly laid-back growl is the perfect voice to interpret Blaze....late night listening for fans of Townes (Van Zandt)/Jon Dee Graham." - NoDepression.com “Once you hear these songs so lovingly performed by Gurf Morlix in his inimitable way you'll know why Blaze Foley was considered a genius. This is one of the most poignant discs to cross this desk this year, and it is about time this artist got his due.” - AcousticMusic.com **Shows where Blaze Foley Documentary Duct Tape Messiah will also be screened** Jenni Finlay Promotions at Folk Alliance Wednesday 2/16 Thursday 2/17 Lisa Morales' Beautiful Mistake "Americana at it's finest!" - Shayne Hollinger, 95.9 The Ranch "If there's a betting pool for next big singer songwriter in Austin, James Hyland's name floats to the top." - Austin Chronicle And when he's not on the road, you can catch James McMurtry perform each week in Austin, TX. Every Wednesday, you can enjoy the James McMurtry Band at their renowned midnight residency at The Continental Club. On Tuesdays evenings, James perform in a rare solo/acoustic setting at The Continental Club Gallery. Plan your next vacation to Austin this month, and don't miss a show! Graham Wilkinson Heads South THIS JUST IN: On Saturday, February 5, we will celebrate the release of the much anticipated 38 track double cd of Sara's songs, Best of Times, recorded by Texas musicians at Austin's Paramount Theatre. The line-up includes Robert Earl Keen, Ruthie Foster, Patrice Pike, LZ Love, Colin Gilmore, Djembabes, Monte Warden & Colin Boyd, Christine Albert & Chris Gage, and many more! Both the Paramount event AND the cd benefit TAP to bring the arts back into schools.Tickets and/or info on the cd: www.bestoftimescd.com Sara Hickman wishes you a happy Valentine's Day, and would like to seranade you and your sweetheart this Valentine's weekend. Sunday, February 13th, Hickman will join Mady Kaye and a swingin' big band for a Valentine's Ball at Austin's Saengerrunde Hall. CLICK HERE for details. TODAY (Tuesday 2/1) at 2000 GMT, Sid Griffin will sit in for Stuart Maconie on the Radcliffe and Maconie Show in BBC Radio Two. This is heard throughout the UK and can of course be heard worldwide on the internet. Amongst other things, they will be discussing the world's protest songs. CLICK HERE to tune in! Check out what folks are saying about Jenni Finlay Promotions "I lean and rely on Jenni's relationships, diligence and deep focus to get our bands in for station visits, giveaways, and spins, which impacts the bottom line. Jenni plays an integral part to my overall tour marketing plan and is accountable all of the time; which is rare in radio these days." - Jon Salter, ATO Records "Jenni is a rootin' tootin' six gun shootin' winner. I'd recommend her to the Devil, himself, should he decide to take his show on the road." - Kinky Friedman CLICK HERE for more! Listen Up To Gurf Morlix! On February 1, 2011, Gurf is releasing a 15 song collection of Blaze's songs, called Blaze Foley's 113th Wet Dream. The cd will be released in conjunction with the documentary, Blaze Foley: Duct Tape Messiah, which has been 12 years in the making. Following the release, Gurf will be touring throughout North America together with the documentary screenings. Blaze, a colorful, but flawed character, was murdered in 1989 at the age of 39. Recording an album of Blaze's music is something Gurf's been wanting to do for more than 20 years. Now is the time. Gurf knows that Blaze's honest, heartfelt words will resonate with today's audience. Blaze is finally having the career he wanted. 2/14 Phoenix, AZ Marquee Theatre In the three years since the last Sisters Morales record (Talking to the River - produced by Los Lobos' Steve Berlin), their mother, Gloria, died after a difficult struggle with cancer. It was Gloria’s fight for her life that made Lisa re-examine her own. Beautiful Mistake finds her doing just that. Her writing on this album is unquestionably her best to date. Morales teamed up with longtime friend and bassist, Michael “Cornbread” Traylor to produce this gem, and together, they gathered a great cast of talented and soulful musicians (including Walt Wilkins and Dustin Welch) to pull out some of Morales’ best performances. An unlikely pair (one hails from the cadre of songwriters living in Austin, Texas, the other from the paradisical reaches of Vancouver Island, British Columbia) their friendship and musical respect were immediate, as they found countless familiar threads in the people and music they admired. “The touring and recording BettySoo and I plan to do is based on all the stories and songs we have each collected over years of being surrounded by great characters.” says Cox, “Lots of these songs are in danger of disappearing if they don't keep being sung. Keeping these songs alive is what we intend to do with Across The Borderline.” They plan to record their debut album this month. With two voices, a guitar and a Dobro, Across the Borderline gathers different places and sounds: low and high, north and south, hope and heartbreak. James Hyland's "American Son"
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