The Soulful Mavis Staples and Loveblock 2013 Pinot Noir

This is the second consecutive vintage of Loveblock Pinot Noir 2013 ($37, 14%) that I've received as a sample and this New Zealand wine captivates me. The grapes are grown in Loveblock's high altitude "Someone’s Darling" Vineyard (Central Otago), which owners Erica and Kim Crawford have had accredited with  Sustainable Winegrowing (SWNZ). The wine is powerful, yet classy; exhibits fresh fruit, yet dusty herbs; and finishes with bright acids, yet smooth tannins.  A very complex wine that's a gem to drink. Another gem is R&B gospel singer Mavis Staples.  With each sip of the Loveblock, Staples's soulful, smooth, yet dusty vocals seemed to emanate from the wine, whether the gospel sound of One True Vine or the soulful R&B of Livin' On A High Note. And when the band breaks out the electric guitar and horns while she's singing gospel, that captivates me as well. And by chance Staples is traveling through New Zealand and Australia this spring. Cheers.

Album Review: Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds - The Weather Below

If you're planning on attending Floydfest this year, then get a preview of one of the scheduled artists, Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds, through their latest release The Weather Below. Produced by Ryan Hadlock and recorded at Bear Creek Studio just outside Seattle, WA; the album's rock and soul tinged sound merits a listen. The attraction starts with Arleigh Kincheloe's sultry and powerful vocals and is augmented by vibrant horns (Phil Rodriguez (trumpet), and Brian Graham (saxophones)). Then the harmonica (Jackson Kincheloe) merges with the guitar (Sasha Brown) and blends seamlessly with the bass (Josh Myers) and drums (Dan Boyden). Just check out Don't Be Jealous. That's a tight track. So is Cold Blooded - love the opening guitar riff.  The title track, Borderline, We Need A Love, and Catch Me If You Can are also favored songs. Pair with NYC's Kings County Distillery - home to an awesome band - Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds.

Album Review: Retro Soul from Major And The Monbacks

I've always had a soft spot for bands with horns and that trend has continued with the eight-piece band Major and the Monbacks. After performing together for seven years, they have finally come around to recording their debut, self titled album (release date May 12th). And it's a good one.  There's horns a plenty, a sophisticated sound, high energy dance tunes, and tight vocal harmonies. While in high school in Norfolk, VA, twin brothers Neal (guitar, vocals, keys) and Cole (bass) Friedman formed the precursor of what would eventually become Major and the Monbacks with classmates Michael Adkins (guitar, vocals, harmonica, keys), Harry Schloeder (guitar, vocals, keys), and Tyler Wes (percussion, hype). Nate Sacks (saxophone), Bryan Adkins (drums), and Aaron Reeves (trumpet) round out the eight pieces. Pair this excellent album with Norfolk's Smartmouth Brewing Co. Cheers.

• I Can Hardly Wait - slow start to the album, then.....
• Somedays - an instant classic; best track
• Annabelle - starts slow but gradually gains a full head of steam
• Don't Say A Word - hear a little JJ Grey in this one
• She Don't Knock - sophisticated soul
• Sunshine - vocal harmonies abound in this pop song
• Be My Baby - starts with 1950s do whop pop; leans towards Holy Ghost Tent Revival
• Magnolia - notice the keys and guitars
• Fool - there's some St. Paul and The Broken Bones
• I Do - fast pace finale

Album Review: Anthony Gomes - Electric Field Holler

I love blues guitar, thus I also love Electric Field Holler, the latest release by Canadian born, Chicago trained, bluesman Anthony Gomes. Not only does this release rock, but Gomes' gritty vocals add texture and depth. The opening track, Turn It Up!, is an autobiographic history through his mentors; debut CD, Blues in Technicolor; and showcases his rockin' 6-string guitar. Blues traditionalists may lament the rock n' roll sound; but I completely digg it. Whiskey Train, Blueschild, and Tilt-A-Whirl also highlight this guitar prowess, well, you could probably pick any song for that. Pair with Toronto's Steam Whistle Brewing to ride with freight train of an album. Turn It UP! Cheers. 

Album Review: Anders Osborne and North Mississippi Allstars or N.M.O. - "Freedom & Dreams"

Southern bluesmen Anders Osborne and North Mississippi Allstars have teamed up as N.M.O. and released an new album: Freedom & Dreams. I mean just image, two of the best guitarists, Osborne and Luther Dickinson, playing the guitar together as they did in the Southern Soul Assembly tour with JJ Grey and Marc Broussard. According to Dickinson, "Freedom and Dreams is extremely honest and captures NMO's relaxed chemistry so well, most of these songs did not even have a proper count off or beginning. We were interested in combining Anders' singing and songwriting with NMA's groove and aesthetic to create something unique that neither of us could do without the other — a type of modern Southern folk rock." And they get pretty close to this. There is obviously great guitar work; soulful vocals, and Cody Dickinson on drums - pretty tight. You can hear for yourself as the album is streaming on Osborne's site. I think the album hits its stride in the middle with Shining (Spacedust), Brush Up Against You, and Annabel - this being my favorite track. On Saturday (Feb 21), I'll be pairing N.M.O. at the Jefferson Theater (Charlottesville, VA) with Champion Brewing Company and on Monday (Feb 23) at The Birchmere (Alexandria, VA) with Port City Brewing Company. Cheers.

Album Review: The Nightowls - Good As Gold B-Sides

Seems like just a short while ago that I first learned of Austin's favorite soul, funk, Memphis horns, Motown styled The Nightowls through Good As Gold. On September 9th, the band will release a followup EP:  Good As Gold B-Sides, and believe me, it's as enjoyable as its companion. There are just four tracks, and front man Ryan Harkrider and the remaining eight members of The Nightowls make you long for more. Nobody Ever Wants to Leave is my favorite track, Austin's new theme song; but the bluesy soulful Either Way is close behind. The horns are the highlight throughout - I'm mean, what's not to like about that sound. Once again pair with Austin's music friendly brewery, Thirsty Planet Brewing. Cheers.

Album Review: Mingo Fishtrap - On Time

I just went through a streak of music that just really didn't match my palette, so it was a great refresher to receive the latest from the Austin based funk-soul band Mingo Fishtrap.  "On Time" is timeless, classic 60's and early 70s soul and funk. The horns are uplifting, searing guitar, tight harmonies - what is not to like. Actually if this CD doesn't move you, emotionally and physically, then somethings wrong with you. "Mingo Fishtrap are Roger Blevins, Jr. on lead vocals and guitar; Dane Farnsworth on vocals, organ, and keyboards; Chip Vayenas on vocals and drums; Mikel Urdy on percussion; Roger Blevins, Sr. on bass; Steve Butts on trumpet; Dan Bechdolt on tenor and alto saxophone; and Zol Waterhouse on trombone".  I want to see these guys with JJ Grey & Mofro. Time to click the repeat button; I'm feeling Uncle Billy's Brew & Que with these guys, but they will also be at Wolf Hills Brewing Company in Abingdon next weekend. Cheers.

Austin is Truly Weird and Blessed with The Nightowls - Good As Gold

I've been listening to several bands lately with a might horns section and another one falls in my lap courtesy of Austin based The Nightowls. In early December they are releasing Good As Gold and if you enjoy a mix of Motown and Memphis - this CD is for you. In fact, listening transports one back to the 60's and 70's where The Nightowls could easily assimilate into the great Soul and R&B bands of that time. Frontman Ryan Harkride provides that classic era's vocals along with harmonies from Tara Williamson and Ellie Carroll. But it's the band's vibe that entraps me- the encompassing of keyboards, guitar, bass, and horns that get ya bouncing in your seat - at least in the car. At a club would be much more preferable and the band will celebrate their CD release show December 7th at Stubb's BBQ.  Pair with Austin's music friendly Thirsty Planet Brewing. Cheers.

Emily Hurd Brings Some Sanity to the Christmas Song Market

Chicago based singer-songwriter Emily Hurd started Christmas early this year by spending the month of October drafting ten original songs for her new Christmas CD, Any Given Day.  And I mean original. No overplayed Christmas or seasonal references here. Instead, we get her bluesy, soulful vocals reflecting on love and relationships - all wrapped around this glorious season. Take Glögg - a reference to mulled wine, but a song referring to a couple spending quality romance together. Or In the Spirit of Giving, a powerful song of the reconciliation of the soul. And we all want to believe in magic - Children Believe. Love Chain of Light as well. Did I mention the accompanying musicians: Gerald Dowd, Gregg Ostrom, and John Abbey.  Outstanding. In fact, this is such an enjoyable CD, I want to listen all year; you won't find it being boxed up with our other Christmas CDs and ornaments. Merry Christmas.

Classic Soul from The Right Now

There are time when I receive a music sample, give a listen, and so yea, okay; and then there are times when I receive a music sample, give a listen, and immediately have that Eureka moment. That's what happened when we first listened to Gets Over You from The Right Now.  Classic 70's soul - I'm talking Aretha style - and coming from Chicago - I'm expecting the Blues Brothers to be backing. Then, with the horns, I think I'm in Memphis. Regardless, The Right Now get it done; right now; starting with front women Stefanie Berecz; then guitarists Chris Corsale and Brendan O’Connell (plus keyboard); and finally the rhythm section of Greg Nergaard (bass), John Smillie (drums), Jonathon Edwards (baritone sax), and Jim Schram (tenor sax).

Take a listen to "I Can't Speak For You". Then 'Good Man". Then "Tell Everyone The Truth". Then "'Til It Went Wrong". If you are not hooked, then something's up.  I read that their live shows are unforgettable. Need to take a road trip to the Windy City - following this band this band is on the list. 

Some Diverse New Music - From Jazz to Funky Soul

We've recently received several new CDs and here's the lowdown. 

Its definitely time to get your boogie on when listening to T Bird and the Breaks - Never Get Out of This Funk Alive. This is one I'm dancing in my seat; whether driving, at work, at home; this is just a classic fun CD that exudes 70's soul and funk. Just listen to the title track or "Spread the Love". Plus, this is a 10-piece band - wait until you hear the sounds emanating from deep down in the tracks: percussion, keyboards, horns. And gotta love "Your Nasty Love".  Can't believe this sound comes out of Austin - forget about Americana - give me Funk.


Reed Turner got our attention with his new EP Side One: See How Far I Get. His songwriting immediately reminded me of Joe Pug, but he distinguishes himself through a unique finger picking style. His study at the Berklee College of Music has paid off, because this artist is talented. And this talent is immediately on display on the first track, "Beware the Hand". And "let's Roll" showcases some clever songwriting. And the last track, "Acrobats & Soldiers", is just powerful. I can't wait for Side 2.

At first listen, I didn't care for Big Trouble from The Dang-it Bobbys. But that opinion was a result of sitting in traffic for three hours trying to go 30 miles.  After multiple listens, I really came to appreciate the musicianship of this duo, Kris Bauman and guitarist Luca Benedetti. I think it started at "I Love You"; love the composition. Can't seem to categorize the sound, there's some Pop, some Bluegrass ("Whiskey Strut"), plenty of vocal harmony, and even a Tex-Mex sound in "Big Trouble". My favorites were the two instrumentals ("Roadkill Jerky" & "Whiskey Strut"), maybe because I'm not completely sold on the song writing - although the initial track, "Middle Ground", is clever. Yet, these are two to watch considering how nicely they can play their respective instruments.


Finally, I've been really digging the latest from the Joe Deninzon Trio, Exuberance. I listen to this during the work hours, and I tell you, the day flies by.  The trio consists of violinist Joe Deninzon, bassist Robert Bowen, and guitarist Stephen Benson. On occasion there's some gypsy jazz influence, but with Deninzon switching from electric to acoustic violin, also some classical and at times, americana-ish fiddling. In this CD, Bowen's bass plays a noticeable role whereas Benson's guitar sometimes lingers too silently. The guy can play - turn him up - just like the beginning of "Sun Goes Down". And listen to the end, "The Tourist" could be my favorite track.