Album Review: Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers - Loved Wild Lost

Anyone ever listen to the Van Sessions (usually covers of iconic songs) on Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers YouTube site? Well you should. And these sessions are a good introduction to the 1960's folk-pop sound infused with a little rock, country, and blues from their latest album, Loved Wild Lost. Bluhm's soulful vocals elevate the songs, whether they are soft ballads, easy listening country, funky blues, or straight rock. Me and Slim and Hearts Gets Tough are examples of the later where The Gramblers (Tim Bluhm, Deren Ney, Dave Mulligan, Steve Adams, & Mike Curry) strut their stuff. This is one tight outfit. Mr. Saturday Night is one of my other favorites and listen to the end to hear Bluhm's sweet vocals in High Neck Lace and Heavy Hey Ya. She is quite impressive. Pair with San Francisco's 21st Amendment. Cheers.

Album Review: Elle King - Love Stuff

Here's a very interested album I found while perusing the New York Time's Press Play; Elle King's Love Stuff. Part, rock, part, pop (I won't call it Power Pop because it's more sophisticated then that); I found this album completely enjoyable. King comes through with her raw vocals, punk delivery, great guitar work, and even the banjo takes center stage on a few songs. I Told You I Was Mean portrays these attributes in a jazzy - bluesy setting. American Sweetheart is a song that seems better than anything Katy Perry sang during the Superbowl. Want to hear the banjo? Start with Kocaine Karolina. The album concludes with See You Again, which we hope is the case with King's career. We recommend pairing "Love Stuff" with Brooklyn Oenology, a great spot to enjoy New York wine and spirits. Cheers.

Album Review: Punch Brothers - The Phosphorescent Blues

The Punch Brothers have always been a leading force in progressive bluegrass and in their latest album, The Phosphorescent Blues, they are expanding the boundaries - perhaps too far. No one can ever question the musicianship of Chris Thile (mandolin),  Gabe Witcher (violn), Noam Pikelny (banjo), Chris Eldridge (guitar), Paul Kower (bass) and with the album having been produced by T Bone Burnette, the musicianship is tight. However, for my tastes, the songs are too pop-ish and theme, if there is one, too disjointed. It's not until Boll Weevil, when the group returns to their bluegrass roots, is there a song I enjoy. Fans of the Punch Brothers will no doubt add this one to their collection, but I'm waiting for a more bluegrass feel. Cheer.

Album Review: The Vespers - Sisters and Brothers

It's been a long time since I first heard The Vespers when they opened a show for Cadillac Sky. The young quartet has just released their third album, Sisters and Brothers - which I listened to a Brite Revolution.The title is relevant since the band is comprised of two pairs of siblings - the Cryar sisters and Jones brothers.  The band started out as a roots folk band with some bluegrass; but their latest expands into more of a rock-pop sound. A perfect example is "Cynical Soul" with it's acoustic instruments, but pop melodies. I like how the album begins, with the slow opening in "Break the Cycle" and "Signs" has a rockin' Black Keys feel. I suspect one power-pop song that will be popular is "You Leave Me" - but for my tastes - I like the old Vespers sound. Cheers.

Album Review: Graham Colton - Lonely Ones

One of the regular shows I try to catch at Jammin' Java, my local music joint, is Graham Colton. Colton always attracts a good crowd and can guarantee an entertaining performance every show. He's back on tour (February 23rd at J.J.) in support of his just released CD, Lonely Ones. I purchased the full release yesterday and after listening for the entire day see that this former singer-songwriter has transitioned to a larger sound. Think of the psychedelic orchestration of The Black Keys paired with soft melodies of previous Colton releasess. The first track Mixed Up is where I got the Black Keys reference, and it continues with the next track, Born To Raise Hell, an interesting story of a serial killer - wrapped in many la la las. Hands Untied showcases both the larger sound balanced with a catchy melody that continues with the rest of the release. Taking a detour from my alt-country ways, I really enjoyed this CD - nice job Graham. Been pairing with a big Cabernet Franc from CrossKeys Vineyards & Estates. Cheers.

Album Review: The Farewell Drifters - Tomorrow Forever

While driving through the Shawangunk Wine Trail, exploring New York wine and beer, I listened to The Farewell Drifters soon to be released CD, Tomorrow Forever. Both the wine trail and music were new territory, musically because this is less a traditional bluegrass effort that I have become accustomed to by the band and more a refined acoustic pop CD. Normally I would turn away, but the bands vocal harmonies are as soothing as seeing the snow covered Shawangunk mountains. Just listen to Brother - my favorite track -  that and Bring 'em Back Around - the most rockn' song of the release. The songs are all original, written by Joshua Britt and Zach Bevill (Clayton Britt and Dean Marold round out the band), and is a nice listen, perfect for country roads.  Plus it's nice to heard guest fiddler Eamon McLoughlin again. Looking forward to seeing the band January 28th at Gypsy Sally's in Washington DC. Pair with Brimstone Hill Winery or Baldwin Vineyards Chardonnay.