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.

CD Review: Girls Guns and Glory - Good Luck

This week I was able to catch up with an old friend, Chris Hersch, who I originally met when he was the banjoist for Oneside. When that band met their fatal end, he was acquired on waivers by Ward Hayden, who along with Paul Dilley (bass) and Josh Kiggans (perccussions) comprise the roots rock-country band Girls Guns and Glory. They tour constantly and fortunately the band route several times into the Washington D.C. area - this time at Georgetown's Gypsy Sally's. On any given evening you are bound to hear a range of music from Hank Williams or Chuck Berry to original songs that play tribute to country music's past - no contemporary Nashville pop here. I'm definitely a homey, but Chris plays a wicked guitar and Ward possesses a vocal style that matches that old time country sound. And these were all on display at Gypsy Sally's; who would have thought this sound came from a group of guys from Boston.

As a bonus, after the show Ward treated me to a copy of the band's latest release Good Luck, which I have listened to continually over the last two days.  The CD contains almost all original material reflecting a more rockin' side - perhaps due to producer Eric “Roscoe” Ambel - who has also produced albums for Steve Earle and The Bottle Rockets. The first track, All the Way Up To Heaven, is a perfect example of this new sound - very tight, sharp vocals, and a unique mixture of rock and country. Be Your Man picks up the pace with some serious guitar; then some are pure fun (Shake Like Jello, Built for Speed), whereas others are serious ballads (One of These Days, Centralia, PA).  The later I remember hearing live and pays tribute to Chris and Paul's home state of eastern Pennsylvania and the abandoned coal mining town.The last three tracks are my favorites, the cover Rockin' Chair Money, UUU, and It's Your Choice - particularly this last song. Each are completely different but all integrate a tight sound and chemistry that the band seems to have developed over the past few years. Can't wait for their next stop to DC, until then Lucky Star remains in the CD cycle. Pair with Boston's Bully Boy Distillery. Cheers.

CD Review: Clay McClinton - Bitin’ at the Bit

I've been listening to Clay McClinton for a few years now enjoying his rootsy-soul vocals that, at times, resemble his father Delbert McClinton - but mostly chart a separate path. And that trend continues with his upcoming release Bitin’ at the Bit - incorporating a style or sound that McClinton calls Texas gumbo. And there's a lot going on in these songs - some rock, alt-country and country ballads, blues, and plenty of Tex Mex.

The CD was reproduced by esteemed producer-songwriter Gary Nicholson who also co-wrote most of the material with McClinton. The exceptions are his father's Victim of Life’s Circumstances in which Delbert shares vocals, the oldie Just Dropped In - to See What Condition My Condition was In, and the bluegrass tune Poison Love. The backing band is worth the price of the CD in itself. McClinton and\or Nicholson have some friends as they acquired the services of guitarists Kenny Vaughan, Dan Dugmore and Colin Linden; percussionists Lynn Williams and Tom Hambridge; and bassist Steve Mackay — along with members of Clay’s touring band Jon Sanchez on guitar and Ed Friedland on bass. Then there's the role played by Joel Guzman on the accordion and organ - adding that Tex-Mex flavor to many of the songs.

The first two tracks Wildflowers and Stories We Can Tell are two upbeat, catchy songs that seem to be tributes to his native Texas and to life as a traveling musician. The next two tracks Beer Joint and Sound of a Small Town reflect simpler times with the former finding a partner in the cleverly written Hydrated: "I'm no nutritionist, but there's corn in alcohol and plenty of water in beer". You may recognize What a Little Bit of Love Can Do which was featured in the film, “Crazy Heart" and sung by Jeff Bridges. And don't miss the last track, Bound For Glory - which McClinton delivers in a powerful and soulful manner. This may be my favorite track - particularly with Guzman's contributions.

Bitin' at the Bit is scheduled for the February 18th 2014 release.  You cab probably grab an early copy at one of McClinton's performances - 'cause its worth getting now. Pair with some good Texas beer from Live Oak Brewing Company.

Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band Announces the Big Damn Roots Revolution Tour

We look forward to this tour from the Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band.

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 13, 2014) – Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band is happy to announce The Big Damn Roots Revolution Tour, which will take the band throughout the U.S. this winter and spring.

With a reputation for their incendiary live shows, it seemed only natural for the Big Damn Band to hit the road again in support of Between the Ditches, their latest album. But this time, The Rev, Breezy & Ben will unleash their ferocious roots/blues explosion to the masses alongside some of their favorite artists for what is sure to be an unforgettably evening of roots music. Conceptualized by none other than the Reverend Peyton himself, The Big Damn Roots Revolution Tour is a musical event that will showcase today’s top roots artists in a whole new light.

Between the Ditches has been received with enthusiasm since its debut at #1 on the iTunes Blues chart week of release. They’ve received critical raves in the US and internationally, video play from CMT and MTVu, charting at both college and Americana radio and inclusion in the hit Showtime series Shameless starring William H. Macy.

Roaring out of the southern Indiana foothills, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band plays a brand of Americana and Blues that stands alone - Delta blues and hillbilly fervor combine with musical acuity sharp as razor wire. Their new album Between The Ditches is a chronicle of this lifestyle. Since it arrived in August, excellent reviews have appeared in publications like Vintage Guitar, Classic Rock Magazine, Alternative Press and Living Blues. Their fifth album celebrates the growl of a good truck engine, the fiercest passion for their country home and the importance of family.

Weds Feb 19 – Nashville, TN – Exit/In
Thurs Feb 20 – Lexington, KY – Cosmic Charlie’s
Sat Feb 22 – Memphis, TN – Newby’s
Sun Feb 23 – Little Rock, AR – Juanita’s
Tues Feb 25 – Tulsa, OK – Tulsa Shrine
Weds Feb 26 – San Antonio, TX – Sam’s Burger Joint Music Hall
Thurs Feb 27 – Dallas, TX – Gas Monkey Garage
Fri Feb 28 – Austin, TX – The Belmont
Sat March 1 – Houston, TX – Warehouse LIVE
Fri March 7 – Denver, CO – Bluebird Theater
Weds March 12 – Minneapolis, MN – Cabooze
Fri March 14 – Chicago, IL – Reggie’s Rock Club
Sat March 15 – Ferndale, MI – Magic Bag Theatre
Sun March 16 – Cleveland Heights, OH – Grog Shop
Sat April 5 – Kansas City, MO – Middle Of The Map Fest
Sat April 12 – Clarksdale, MS – New Roxy Theatre
Fri May 2 – St. Augustine, FL – Gamble Rogers Folk Festival
Sun May 25 – Logan, OH – Duck Creek Log Jam
Sat June 14 – Delton, MI – Buttermilk Jamboree
Sat August 2 – Mammoth Lakes, CA – Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza
Sat August 9 – Kokomo, IN – Kokomo Pavillion

Stay connected for the latest:
http://www.bigdamnband.com
http://www.twitter.com/bigdamnband
http://www.facebook.com/bigdamnband

For more information, please contact:
Jamie Coletta – (323) 790-0990 – jamie@sideonedummy.com

Album Review: Chase Gassaway - Certain Circles

If I ever found the courage to write songs, Chase Gassaway, would be the songwriter I would try to emulate; he is the antithesis of the mindless pop-country crap now in fashion. His upcoming release - Certain Circles - is a must listen as it contains songs with meaning, songs that lead to self-inspection, and songs that inspire.  Coming at the beginning of a new year when most of us review the previous year and seek to make changes in the new, this Austin based musician provides some lessons. There are self-inspecting words such as: "when the conversation in your heart makes you question everything you are" or "I think I'm overrated, I have no excuse, nothing seems to make me inspired.." or  "when the ship goes down, who will you save, ...will the lifeboat hold all of your silver or all of your gold?"

Then there are the clever lyrics - "I don't need fast machines or TV screens if I have you" or "I've got stories that you will never know, some of them are mine, some of the better ones I stole" or "its got its bruises, everyone was earned, sometimes getting hurt is the only way you learn".

But there is also hope - "we can turn this thing around" and my favorite "there is nothing wrong for feeling good - everybody cries and everybody should but there's nothing wrong for feeling good". I couldn't have said it better myself. And I can't get the opening track Turn This Thing Around - out of my mind - great advice throughout the entire song - show them what you are worth and we can turn this thing around.

All these observations are wrapped in a folksy-pop sound that make the lessons entertaining.  Look out for the January 21st release. I'll be revisiting this CD throughout the year to see how I'm fairing. Pair with Austin based Argus Cidery. Cheers.

PBS History Detectives Investigate Music History

While working out I watched an interesting episode of History Detectives on PBS. The basic modus operandi of the show is that take an item of potential historical significance and research its importance and authenticity.The episode I watched was titled Duke Ellington Plates and focused on whether printing plates found in a Brooklyn dumpster were the original plates for publishing Ellington's "Take the A Train." The investigation starts with the history of Ellington and his band, the composition of Take the A Train.", and explores the financial burdens required to support Ellignton and his co-horts. Very interesting - take a look. And while browsing the History Detectives site, I saw more musically inclined episodes such as Bob Dylan Guitar, Frank Zappa Collage, & Beatles Autographs. I'm hooked.

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.

The Highballers - New Album and CD Release Party at IOTA

I've been falling The Highballers for a couple years now - completely enjoying their old school country sound and chuckling over entertaining lyrics and song titles. The Washington DC based band is back again with a new self titled CD and plenty more songs of drinkin', unruliness, and remorse plus great guitar work and vocal harmonies. This CD helped me through two long plane rides and a couple of stern looks as I laughed and sung the melodies to hushed passengers. I mean, who can't sing and laugh to I Need My Ass Kicked or Can't Stop Drinkin'.  Then listen to the beautiful vocals of Lula's Gone and the more serious songs such as  King of the Plains or Love Will Find You - classic country and harmonies.  Here's a pretty cool animated video of the former that should entice you to attend their CD Release Party at IOTA Club in Arlington, VA next Saturday January 11th. Pair with Catoctin Creek Distilling Company Roundstone Rye Whiskey.

The Grammy Nominations & Categories To Follow

The 2014 Grammy Nominations were just announced and their are several friends of MyJoog.com and artists we've covered in the past nominated.  While viewing the categories we skimmed over some that we were interested in (Rock, Gospel) all the way down until we found #45 Best American Roots Song.  You can forget about the Pop divas and so called Country stars; here are the outstanding artists we care about.And special congratulations to artists we covered this year such as Della Mae, The Greencards, The Boxcars, Jim Lauderdale, Tim O'Brien & Darrell Scott. Who's your favorite?

45. Best American Roots Song

• Build Me Up From Bones
• Sarah Jarosz, songwriter (Sarah Jarosz)
• Label: Sugar Hill Records
• Invisible
• Steve Earle, songwriter (Steve Earle & The Dukes (& Duchesses))
• Label: New West Records; Publisher: Exile On Jones St. Music
• Keep Your Dirty Lights On
• Tim O'Brien & Darrell Scott, songwriters (Tim O'Brien And Darrell Scott)
• Track from: Memories And Moments
• Label: Full Skies Records
• Love Has Come For You
• Edie Brickell & Steve Martin, songwriters (Steve Martin & Edie Brickell)
• Track from: Love Has Come For You
• Label: Rounder; Publishers: LA Films Music/Brick Elephant Music
• Shrimp Po-Boy, Dressed
• Allen Toussaint, songwriter (Allen Toussaint)
• Track from: Songbook
• Label: Rounder; Publishers: Screen Gems-EMI Music Inc/Marsaint Music, Inc.

46. Best Americana Album

• Old Yellow Moon
• Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell
• Label: Nonesuch Records
• Love Has Come For You
• Edie Brickell & Steve Martin
• Label: Rounder
• Buddy And Jim
• Buddy Miller And Jim Lauderdale
• Label: New West Records
• One True Vine
• Mavis Staples
• Label: Anti Records
• Songbook
• Allen Toussaint
• Label: Rounder

47. Best Bluegrass Album

• It's Just A Road
• The Boxcars
• Label: Mountain Home Music Company
• Brothers Of The Highway
• Dailey & Vincent
• Label: Rounder
• This World Oft Can Be
• Della Mae
• Label: Rounder
• Three Chords And The Truth
• James King
• Label: Rounder
• The Streets Of Baltimore
• Del McCoury Band
• Label: McCoury Music

48. Best Blues Album

• Remembering Little Walter
• Billy Boy Arnold, Charlie Musselwhite, Mark Hummel, Sugar Ray Norcia & James Harman
• Label: Blind Pig Records
• Cotton Mouth Man
• James Cotton
• Label: Alligator
• Get Up!
• Ben Harper With Charlie Musselwhite
• Label: Stax
• Seesaw
• Beth Hart & Joe Bonamassa
• Label: J&R Adventures
• Down In Louisiana
• Bobby Rush
• Label: Deep Rush Records

49. Best Folk Album

• My Favorite Picture Of You
• Guy Clark
• Label: Dualtone
• Sweetheart Of The Sun
• The Greencards
• Label: Darling Street Records
• Build Me Up From Bones
• Sarah Jarosz
• Label: Sugar Hill Records
• The Ash & Clay
• The Milk Carton Kids
• Label: Anti Records
• They All Played For Us: Arhoolie Records 50th Anniversary Celebration
• (Various Artists)
• Chris Strachwitz, producer
• Label: Arhoolie Records

Who Wants Some Whiskey Kisses from Erica Blinn?

You will - after watching this video and checking out the latest CD Whiskey Kisses from Erica Blinn. The music is part pop-rock, part county, sometimes bluesy, and at times, jamming. My favorite track is Sexy Mess - which really showcases her band - The Handsome Machine - with plenty of rockn' guitar, harp, and drums.  They can also slow it down gracefully with Need Someone Tonight and How Lucky I Am. Then back to the her harp and some punk rock and Home. There's something for everyone with this CD. Did I say the harp and guitar rock? Pretty cool. Pair with a Greenbroad Leaf and Schlafly Bottleworks Session IPA.

On the Edge with Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen

After seeing Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen at Bristol Rhythm and seeing that banjo player Mike Munford was awarded the IBMA's Banjo Player of the Year, I decided to revisit On the Edge, released in the Spring 2013 in their Compass Records debut. Not sure why this CD got replaced in the regular cycle, it's one that should remain in close proximity to the player - all year round.  Solivan voice is much smoother in this release - displaying more emotion. This could be a result of highly passionate songs such as  Gone and On the Edge of Letting Go. And his mandolin is no slouch either. I don't know how anyone can play that instrument and Solivan is at his best. Munford shows off his talents throughout the CD, particularly in his M80 - a fast paced ride - and Bedrock.  Youngsters Dan Booth (bass) and Chris Luquette (guitar) round out the Dirty Kitchen gumbo with tight harmonies (see Wild Unknown and No Chance) as well as equilibrium and balance.  How else could the band cover The Box Tops classic The Letter and make it better than the original - and on hyperdrive. Pretty awesome stuff.  Pair with the closest winery to Solivan's Alexandria home -Paradise Springs Winery. 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.

First Look at Gypsy Sally's with Yarn & Blair Crimmins and the Hookers

A couple months back Gypsy Sally's opened in Georgetown with an incredible first month lineup. November has been no slouch either and I finally had no excuse to visit when our new friends Blair Crimmins and The Hookers  opened for old favs Yarn. We joined the hooker bandwagon in September after viewing their performance at Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion and a serious listen to their latest CD Sing-a-Longs. Yarn has been a staple musical diet since Floydfest, The Festy, Firefly Vodka, and Almost Home.  Seems like many folks had the same impression as me since the venue was nicely populated - more Yarnies then Hookers, but all saw a great night of music from both. The Hookers were tight, entertaining horns, some serious banjo and guitar work by Crimmins, and lyrics that won over the crowd. I heard one onlooker exclaim that "they've been transported to the French Quarter".   Yarn seamlessly opened bringing a stampede of diners to the dance floor where they remained the night dancing and singing to Yarn's now classic alt-country. A typical great set, this time, I believe, inspired by Andrew Hendryx's mandolin.   Looking forward to listening more to Shine The Light On with songs such as Angel Place That Halo, Bobby Weeks, and Take Me First. Cheers and pair with Breuckelen Distilling or New York Distilling Company Gin and Whisky.  Oh yea, I'll be a frequent visitor to Gypsy Sally's - great food; decent beer list; and solid lineups.

Yarn

Blair Crimmins and the Hookers

Dom Flemons is the "American Songster" and our National Musical Historian

We were fortunate to have Grace & Tony (check out their new CD November) invite us to Jammin' Java to hear them open for the very talented Dom Flemons of the Carolina Chocolate Drops.  Flemons bills himself as " the 'American Songster,' pulling from traditions of old-time folk music to create new sounds". I have no argument with that description; all it takes is attending one performance or listening to American Songster. In fact he is our National Musical Historian. Who else has mastered the banjo, guitar, harmonica, fife, bones, bass drum, snare drum and quills? Who else covers lost musicians from the first half of the 19th century like Flemons and brings them to life as his own. Who else can get my son's undivided attention for an entire hour - now that's talent. (Truth be told, The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band can as well). Pair with Music Maker Relief Foundation and brews from Mystery Brewing Company.

Album Review: Grace and Tony - November

This past Saturday I was invited to my local music joint Jammin' Java to hear husband and wife duo Grace & Tony as they opened for Dom Flemons (Carolina Chocolate Drops). The bio for Grace Shultz and Tony White suggests Punkgrass (She played bluegrass. He played punk..) to describe their music, but I think that undersells their wide repertoire of sound - gospel, bluegrass, folk, even Spanish styled guitar. That's how they started out the evening and unfortunately after a few songs they had to close out their set because of extremely tight time constraints.

Thus I revisited their upcoming CD November, that's due for a November 12th release. With the opening track Hey Grace, Hey Tony, you first notice the vocal harmonies, complete balance between sweet and earthy.  The title track and The Chamleon are my favorite songs, both interesting with plenty of finger picking, harmonies, and in the later, a surprise gospel styled sing-a-long.  Grassephomy and La Camera are other cool tracks - listen to the end.  Paired with DC Brau The Public™.