Reviews Archives - Page 46 of 74

DISClaimer: Male-Female Duos Find Musical Homes in Americana

September 17, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

It’s Americana week here in Music City.
For some reason, this genre has lately been specializing in male-female duos. Perhaps in emulation of The Civil Wars, Shovels & Rope, Brennen Leigh & Noel McKay, Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, Over the Rhine and the like, we have a plethora of such teams on tap today — Carolina Story, Grace & Tony, Danika Holmes & Jeb Hart and Hardin Burns.
One of them, Grace & Tony, wins the DisCovery Award. They are married Nashvillians, and their last name is White. He is the brother of John Paul White of the aforementioned Civil Wars. Grace plays banjo and mandolin and is influenced by bluegrass. Tony plays guitar and comes from a rock background. No wonder they sound so refreshingly different.
The Disc of the Day prize goes to the enduringly great Lucinda Williams.
JIM LAUDERDALE/The Day the Devil Changed
Writers: Jim Lauderdale; Producer: Jim Lauderdale; Publishers: Ginger Dragon/Bug, SESAC; Sky Crunch (track)
-Jim Lauderdale was making Americana music before the genre even had a name. Fittingly, the award-show host was the artist who christened this week. He did so with a Monday-morning preview (at SESAC) and a Monday-evening premiere (at Bongo Java) of a new documentary about him. That film, The King of Broken Hearts, features this dramatic ballad, as well as its already well known title tune. Both can also be found on his new, 20-track CD, I’m a Song. This performance vividly illustrates that country’s loss is Americana’s gain, for it is a masterfully mournful, honky-tonk moaner. The album also features duets with Lee Ann Womack, Patty Loveless and Buddy Miller. Let a word to the wise be sufficient.

Lucinda Williams

LUCINDA WILLIAMS/Big Mess
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Highway 20 (track)
-If Lauderdale is the father of Americana, Lucinda Williams is the mother. She was the first artist created by the genre to earn a Gold Record, and she remains a touchstone troubadour for all who have followed her. Her next project is a double album titled Down Where the Spirit Meets the Bone. It is due September 30, but you can preview this soul-soaked track on her website now. Bluesy, groovy and goose-bumpy, this is one righteous slab of sound.
DANIKA HOLMES & JEB HART/Black Swan
Writers: D. Holmes/J. Hart; Producer: Jeb Hart; Publishers: none listed; Red Schoolhouse
-She’s the singer, and he’s the dexterous acoustic guitarist in this charming, lo-fi folk duo. The song is catchy, and her singing style is ear tickling. Jeb also teaches music, and I can hear that he has a lot to offer.
THE LOUDERMILKS/Everybody Knows You
Writers: A. Edwards; Producer: The Edwards Brothers & The Loudermilks; Publishers: Alchamash, ASCAP; You Know What
-This acoustic band hails from North Carolina. Its debut CD features this tuneful, gently swaying ode to an admired one who can break your heart.
CAROLINA STORY/When I Was A Boy
Writers: Ben Roberts/Emily Roberts; Producer: Blake Chancey; Publisher: Stitched Together, BMI; True Bearing
-Ben and Emily Roberts are a Nashville couple who are balancing their career as traveling troubadours with the impending birth of their first child. That’s why this sweetly sung bit of parental advice is so timely. The extremely likable sound of Carolina Story debuted on the Grand Ole Opry in June. Congratulations to all “three” of you.
GRACE & TONY/November
Writers: Grace & Tony; Producer: Lloyd Aur Norman; Publishers: none listed; Rock Ridge (track)
-I like these folks. The duo’s songs are structured unusually, with checkerboard rhythm shifts and choruses sung with full-throated harmonies. The excellent production expertly mixes multiple percussion, steel, accordion, banjo, guitar, bass and even a dash of trumpet on one track. Different is good. Well worth your attention.
HARDIN BURNS/Down the Deep Well
Writers: Jeannie Burns/Andrew Hardin; Producer: Andrew Hardin & Gabriel Rhodes; Publishers: Jeannie Mary Rachel/Alligator Farm, BMI; Ithaca (track)
-Vocalist Jeannie Burns was previously in The Burns Sisters. Partner Andrew Hardin brings a Texas drawl to the proceedings, as well as sterling lead-guitar lines. On the title tune to their collection, they fret and worry over their mental states while a steady, relentless rhythm shoves them forward. Simple, yet enormously compelling.
DAVID G. SMITH/One House
Writers: David G. Smith; Producers: Blue Miller; Publishers: Alrose, BMI; DGS (track)
-The title song and first track on this Nashvillian’s CD expertly combines social commentary with a solid, bluesy groove. He pleads on behalf of the 99 percent of us for a world of peace, justice and stability. In addition to producer Blue Miller, the CD includes contributions from such talents as Jelly Roll Johnson, Larry Franklin, John Catchings and Mary Gauthier. Haunting sonics.
AMY BLACK/Alabama
Writers: Amy Black; Producer: Lex Price; Publishers: Got My Dime, SESAC; Reuben (track)
-With a sturdy harmony vocal by Will Kimbrough, this anthem to Dixie sounds like an instant classic. Amy’s This Is Home Nashville CD has been out for several months now, but singer-songwriters this solid are timeless.
BEN GLOVER/Oh Soul
Writers: Ben Glover/Mary Gauthier; Producer: Neilson Hubbard; Publishers: Carpe Vita Creative/Mary Gauthier, PRS/ASCAP; Carpe Vita Creative
-This Irish artist is now a Nashville resident. His fourth CD, titled Atlantic, features this lightly throbbing lament of a man who has lost his emotional compass. His soulful voice has just a touch of rasp, and he builds his song into a gospel-tinged epic with the help Lo Carter and April Rucker. Essential listening.

DISClaimer: The Boys Are Back In Town

September 10, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

Phillip Fox Band

Groups are in the spotlight today.
The bands bearing the names of John D. Hale, Phillip Fox and Josh Abbott have three of the best discs of the listening session. Plus, we have an audio reunion of the Girls Next Door.
Fittingly, The Phillip Fox Band is one of the day’s award winners. This mostly bearded foursome worked some 175 dates last year in and around its native Ohio, and the practice shows on its debut CD, Heartland. A tip of the hat and a DisCovery Award to this group.
The Disc of the Day prize goes to Darius Rucker, for being so gosh-darned addictive sounding.
MIKE & DORIS MERRITT/Love Will Get You Through Times of No Money
Writers: Sam Lorber/Tim DuBois/Jeff Silbar; Producer: Ron Hemby; Publishers: Warner Bros./Bob Montgomery, ASCAP; Palomino (track)
-Doris knows this song well. In 1986, when she was Doris King and a member of Girls Next Door, it became the group’s first country hit. Now it is a standout track on her new country-gospel CD Detours, and guess who have reunited to sing it with her anew? That’s right, and her former partners Cindy, Diane and Tammy harmonize just as smoothly with her as ever. This well-produced album is recorded with Doris’s minister hubby, but it is not a collection of duets. Rather, each of them has solo outings.

Darius Rucker

DARIUS RUCKER/Homegrown Honey
Writers: Darius Rucker/Charles Kelley/Nathan Chapman; Producer: Frank Rogers; Publishers: Universal/Cadaaja/30A Getaway/Kobalt/Songs of Universal/Art in the Pain, ASCAP/BMI; Capitol (CDX)
-It has a cool, funky backbeat, plus a jaunty attitude. The sexy joy of the whole thing is irresistible, because it is as catchy as can be.
KACEY JONES/You’ve Tried the Patience Out of Me
Writers: Kacey Jones/Denise Stiff; Producers: Kacey Jones and Duane Sciaqua; Publishers: Zamalama/Scared Stiff, BMI; IGO
-Darkly bluesy. Sung in Kacey’s low register, the song means business as a female fed-up kiss-off. Deliciously drawling, languidly rolling and full of terrific guitar twang.
RICK PATTERSON/Good For Me Deer
Writers: Rick Patterson; Producer: Rick Patterson; Publishers: RDP, BMI; RDP Music
-The comparisons to hunting deer and collecting a female trophy (”with a big nice rack”) are beyond insulting.
BILLY RAY CYRUS/Like A Country Song
Writers: Tammy Hyler/Shaye Smith; Producers: Tammy Hyler & Shaye Smith; Publishers: Melody Roundup/Bluewater, BMI; Melody Roundup
-Wryly humorous. Everything is going wrong in his life — the wife, the household, the relatives, the truck, the dog. No wonder, “My life is turning out just like a country song.” The laid-back delivery and no-hurry instrumental pace are nice changes of pace for him.
EASTON CORBIN/Baby Be My Love Song
Writers: Jim Collins; Brett James; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Publishers:Music of Cal IV/Tractor Factor/WB/Songs of Brett/External Combustion, BMI/ASCAP; Mercury
-Artistically, it’s been pretty much steadily downhill ever since 2009’s “A Little More Country Than That.” This doesn’t reverse the trend, although it is blandly listenable.
GARTH BROOKS/People Loving People
Writers: Lee Miller/Chris Wallin/busbee; Producer: Mark Miller; Publishers:Warner Tamerlane/Writers of Sea Gayle/Red Cape/29 Cent Hamburgers/Ole/BMG Platinum/Hello I Love You/Jam Writers Group, BMI/ASCAP; RCA/Pearl
-It’s been a very long time since we were hippies and thought idealistic lyrics like this were meaningful. Nevertheless, he is singing well.
PHILLIP FOX BAND/You Are The Girl
Writers: Phillip Fox/Matthew Hexter; Producers: Joe Viers, Phillip Fox & Jonathan Kampfe; Publishers:New Damn Book/LEMILOE, BMI; New Damn Book
-They have a beefy, full-blooded country-rock sound, and the lead singer delivers with plenty of moxie. The song title is somewhat buried, but otherwise, this is a band with a great deal of promise.
JOSH ABBOTT BAND/Hangin’ Around
Writers: Josh Abbott/Josh Osborne/Shane McAnally; Producer: Keith Stegall; Publishers: Warner-Tamerlane/Victory Bells Ring Out/One Little Indian Creek/Songs of Black River/Universal/Smack Ink, BMI/ASCAP; Atlantic
-I have been a big fan of this group throughout both of its previous indie-label releases. Its graduation to major-label status retains most of its strengths — a hooky song, strong vocals and an imaginative arrangement. Radio ready.
JOHN D. HALE BAND & JASON BOLAND/Devil In Disguise
Writers: Gram Parsons/Chris Hillman; Producer: Cody Braun; Publishers: Irving, no performance rights listed; Camel Ranch
-Breezy, classic-sounding, California-style, country-rock music. Even though it has a spotless Texas pedigree.

DISClaimer: Comeback Kids

September 3, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

Trisha Yearwood

The trend of this listening session is the return of fondly remembered voices.
Greeting us with comeback records are Grand Ole Opry members Trisha Yearwood, Hal Ketchum and the duet team of Ricky Skaggs & Sharon White. Welcome all three of them with your arms wide open, because they all sound simply sensational.
So much so, that I’m splitting the Disc of the Day award into three parts. Our Male Vocalist winner is Hal Ketchum. Our Female Vocalist winner is Trisha Yearwood (with some harmony help from Kelly Clarkson). Our Vocal Duo winners are Ricky Skaggs & Sharon White.
The DisCovery Award goes to lead singer Taylor Cain and her younger harmonizing sister Madison and baby brother Logan, who are billed as The Cains Trio.
THE HELLO STRANGERS/What It Takes To Break A Heart
Writers: Larissa Chace Smith/Brechyn Chace; Producer: Steve Ivey; Publishers: The Hello Strangers, SESAC; IMI (track)
-Bluesy, rhythmic and completely captivating. The rockabilly groove is spiced with acoustic passages and quasi-shouted vocal moments. Feisty females on the rampage.
SONIA LEIGH/Put It In Your Pocket
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Willing To Fly
-The good-time groove never lets up for a second. There’s not much of a melody, and like so much of today’s country, it repeats its title and chorus hook over and over the way pop songs do, rather than developing a sustained lyric.
RICKY SKAGGS & SHARON WHITE/Forever’s Not Long Enough
Writers: Bob DiPiero/Keith Sewell; Producers: Ricky Skaggs & Sharon White; Publishers: Sony-ATV Tree/Coburn/Keith Sewell, BMI; Skaggs Family
-Despite being named the CMA Duo of the Year in 1987, these two have never recorded a duet album until now. Their Hearts Like Ours CD will drop on Sept. 30, but this track is available now as a download. It is a fantastically catchy bopper with a dandy electric-guitar twang. Both of them are singing splendidly, the production is as hooky as can be and the song has hit written on it. Play and believe.

The Cains Trio

THE CAINS TRIO/Be Yourself With Me
Writers: Billy Lawson/Taylor Cain/Ed Hill; Producer: Billy Lawson; Publishers: Catch the Boat/Red Vinyl/Monroe Hill, ASCAP/BMI; DayStreet
-These three Alabama siblings have a sweet, sunny, soothing sound. There’s a gentle, folk-y quality to this clean, clear production, and the song has a lovely, lilting melody. Ear tickling.
TRISHA YEARWOOD & KELLY CLARKSON/PrizeFighter
Writers: Jessi Alexander/Sarah Buxton/Ross Copperman; Producer: Mark Miller; Publishers: Party of Five/Kobalt/Big Red Toe/Bux Tone/Big Loud Bucks/EMI Blackwood/Songs By Red Room/Sony-ATV, ASCAP/BMI; RCA/Gwendolyn
-Goosebumps and thrills. Yearwood has one of those voices that shakes me right down to my core, and she nails this soaring rocker to the wall. That Clarkson’s soprano harmony can shadow her note for spectacular note is a sure sign that you are in the presence of singing royalty.
SKYLAR ELISE/You’ll Never Understand
Writers: D. Scott Miller/Amanda Williams; Producer: D. Scott Miller; Publisher: none listed; SM (track)
-She sings well, the song is well constructed, and the steel-guitar work is exemplary. But the rhythm section drags like it is walking through molasses.
RAY JOHNSTON BAND/More Crown Than Coke
Writers: Ray Johnston/James Slater/Django Walker; Producer: Erik Herbst; Publisher: RJB Entertainment, BMI; RJB (track)
-This laid-back drinking song feels as mellow as a booze buzz at sundown. Recommended.
HAL KETCHUM/I’m The Troubadour
Writers: Hal Ketchum; Producer: Jimmy LaFave; Publisher: Boxadore, BMI; Music Road (track)
-The title tune of Hal’s comeback CD is a rollicking, r&b-flavored statement of purpose. Love the shave-and-a-haircut backbeat, the organ flourishes and his drawled, saucy, soulman delivery. This thing cooks with gas.
EILEEN ROSE/Queen of the Fake Smile
Writers: Eileen Rose; Producer: Eileen Rose & The Legendary Rich Gilbert; Publishers: none listed; Holy Wreckords
-This singer-songwriter has apparently been around for awhile, but I believe the new Be Many Gone collection is my first hearing of her. It kicks off with this plain-spoken, mid-tempo ditty. It’s probably not “produced” enough for country radio, but Americana programmers might want to give her spare sound a spin.
ADRIAN DUFFY & THE MAYO BROTHERS/Storm Breaking
Writers: none listed; Producer: Matt Kemp; Publishers: none listed; Symphony Ray
-The group is an Irish country outfit whose previous records have picked up airplay in Canada, Britain and the U.S., as well as its homeland. This pleading, heartfelt ballad has a lustrous, layered, dreamy instrumental arrangement that is extremely pleasing. I’ve liked these guys before. I wish they’d send me a whole album one of these days.

DISClaimer: Country Music Stages A Comeback

August 27, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

Country music stages a comeback this week.
Apparently, there are still a few record makers out there who cherish our honky-tonk traditions. One of them is our DisCovery Award winner, James Carothers. His CD is titled, of course, Honky Tonk Land.
There’s also an Ernest Tubb tribute album in this stack of platters. How could it be anything but country, country, country?
The trio of big stars on tap today are solidly country, too, albeit in modern ways. My applause goes to all three, Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley and Lee Brice. Deciding among them for a Disc of the Day award was simply impossible. So I am giving it to a guy who marries tradition to electronics with striking results, Sturgill Simpson.
SARA BETH/Nowhere With You
Writers: Ashley Hewitt/Dean Sams/SaraBeth Swagerty; Producer: Dean Sams; Publishers: Onjarose/Last Song Standing/Clear Box/Delta Pearl, ASCAP/BMI; Circle S (track)
-This sweet and pleasant, languidly paced ditty goes down smoothly.
STURGILL SIMPSON/The Promise
Writers: Farrington/Mann/Floreale; Producer: Dave Cobb; Publishers: Songs of Kobalt, BMI; High Top Mountain
-Many in the media are hailing this Nashvillian as a “savior” of country music. His resonant baritone has echoes of Waylon, but his extraordinary style is all his own. If you know this song from its days as a 1988 pop hit for the British dance act When In Rome, you’ll be stunned at how he transforms it into an earthy, yearning country love ballad. Esquire, Rolling Stone, The Washington Post and other elite commentators are calling Simpson’s Metamodern Sounds in Country Music CD the country album of the year. You’ll get no argument from me. The singer-songwriter is nominated as Emerging Artist of the Year at next month’s Americana Music Awards.
BLAKE SHELTON/Neon Light
Writers: Andrew Dorff/Josh Kear/Mark Irwin; Producer: Scott Hendricks; Publishers: Songs of Universal/Moreendorffin/Global Dog/Book of Spells/Green Vinyl, BMI/ASCAP; Warner Bros.
-Honky-tonk heartbreak brought right up to date with a sensational groove and brilliantly clever lyrics. Absolutely irresistible.

James Carothers

JAMES CAROTHERS/New Country Singers
Writers: James Carothers; Producer: none listed; Publisher: James Carothers; BMI; JC (track)
-If this doesn’t make you smile, you must not be listening. It seems that the depressing drinking in his hang-dog life doesn’t quite match up to the beer-and-babes lyrics he hears today’s country singers warbling. This boy is a stone-country singer, and his song is as catchy as can be. Play it.
BRAD PAISLEY/Perfect Storm
Writers: Brad Paisley/Lee Thomas Miller; Producers: Luke Wooten/Brad Paisley; Publishers: House of Sea Gayle/Words & Music/Warner-Tamerlane/The Country and Western, ASCAP/BMI; Arista (track)
-The echoey guitar flourishes are heavenly, as Brad continues to dazzle as a player. Beyond that, the song is a melodic dream of being lost in love. In a word, wonderful.
AL BRAKE/Hot Pink Lady
Writers: Al Brake; Producer: Bob Bullock; Publishers: none listed; AB (track)
-This Canadian came to Nashville to record his self-titled CD. But all the professional surroundings in the world can’t disguise his thin, too-sharp, breath-challenged voice.
LEE BRICE/Drinkin’ Class
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Curb (track)
-If this isn’t a monster hit, I’ve never heard one. Every nine-to-fiver in America is going to raise a glass to this anthem. Apparently, it is already a sensation with audiences at Lee’s shows. I can certainly hear why.
QUENTIN REDDY/Moonlight Ride
Writers: Rob Crosby/Brice Long/Quentin Reddy/Darren Crow; Producer: Bart McKay; Publishers: Golden Vault/Wadmalaw/The Song Factory/Wordspring/Blongsongs/Q Factor, BMI/SESAC/SOCAN; On Ramp (track)
-This fellow has already achieved a measure of notoriety by competing on CMT’s “Big in a Small Town” TV competition in Canada. To translate that into U.S. radio prominence, I think it’s going to take a song that’s a little less generic than this.
TONY BOOTH/Walking The Floor Over You
Writers: Earnest Tubb; Producers: Jim Loessberg/Justin Trevino; Publishers: Unichappell, BMI; Heart of Country
-I love this Lone Star State label. Its latest CD is a tribute to Ernest Tubb called Thanks a Lot Texas Troubadour. Country vet Tony Booth kicks it off with a sprightly, bopping rendition of ET’s signature song. Other participants on this thoroughly enjoyable and totally country package include Johnny Bush, the late George Jones, Dottsy, Darrell McCall, Dolly Parton, Norma Jean and Georgette Jones.
JIM PHOTOGLO/Halls of My Heart
Writers: Jim Photoglo; Producer: Jim Photoglo; Publishers: Griffin Pie/Haber; ASCAP; Grifftone (track)
-Photoglo’s songwriting catalog includes such evergreens as “Fishin’ in the Dark” (The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band), “Hometown Honeymoon” (Alabama) and “Honky Tonk Heart” (Highway 101). This is the title tune of his latest solo CD. It is a heartwarming salute to Elvis, The Beach Boys and The Beatles that wafts with nostalgia and stardust. His evocative, tender, tenor voice sounds younger than yesterday. Recommended without reservation, especially if you’re looking for songs with true class. Also, it is exquisitely produced.

DISClaimer: A Radio Slot For The Good Ol' Boys

August 20, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

Jason D. Williams

The good ol’ boys are back in full force.
With this week’s announcement that Taylor Swift’s next album is completely aimed at pop listeners, that leaves us with exactly two major female solo country stars, Carrie and Miranda. They are, coincidentally, current duet partners, so that opens up one more radio slot for a male.
How much longer can this go on?
On the plus side, we have some very worthy newcomers to report this week. One is Casper McWade. A Google search revealed that he is from Oklahoma and that his band is called The Honky Tonk Rebels. All I really know is that he is a sensational country vocalist and that his “Whiskey” song is a gem. What he needs is some first class representation, publicity and promotion.
Daniel Lee is also making his debut this week. He shows definite promise. And then there is our DisCovery Award winner, handsome, 21-year-old, Texas native Chase Bryant. Lend him your ears as well.
It has been way too long since we’ve heard from Jason D. Williams. The wild man wins the Disc of the Day prize.
BERNIE NELSON/If I Know Blue
Writers: Bernie Nelson/Jess Brown; Producer: none listed; Publishers: Dumpster Diver/Jess Brown; ASCAP/BMI; If I Know Blue
-I remain a big, big fan of this big, big talent. Nelson is best known for writing successes for others, and if you want a helping of his latest should-be hits, check out his new Blue CD. This title tune is the best George Strait ballad that superstar never recorded. Heart touching and oh-so country. If you’ve ever loved a dog, prepare to get choked up.

Chase Bryant. Photo: Justin Nolan Key

LENNY COOPER/Lights On
Writers: L. Cooper/J. Spillner/J. Sciullo/T. Wood; Producers: J. Sciullo; Publishers: Riley Payton/DJKO Phivesttarr/Average ZJS/Nettwerk Arias/Revel In It/Burn Card, SESAC/BMI; Average Joes
-Cooper is back with another stack of back-road, mud-digger ditties. The first single from his The Grind CD is this drawled drinkin’ song. In brief, he’s still rocking after “last call,” so he doesn’t care what time it is. The song is more spoken than sung, but with this guy, it’s the attitude that counts.
BILL WENCE/Songs That Make Me Think About You
Writers: Nathan Adam Johnson; Producers: Bill Wence/Joe Funderburk; Publishers: Fortunate, ASCAP; 615 (track)
-Decades after beginning his career, Wence is still out there playing piano behind Bobby Bare and Wanda Jackson. Also, in addition to being a prolific record promoter, he is still making records, himself. This title tune to his latest is a jaunty, beach-y bopper.
RAY STEVENS/Swing Down Chariot/Swing Low Sweet Chariot medley
Writers: traditional; Producer: Ray Stevens; Publisher: Ray Stevens Music (arr.), BMI; Clyde/Gaither
-At age 75, Stevens has been on a tear lately. His memoir, Ray Stevens Nashville, is selling well, and he’s back on disc with a gospel collection. The latter kicks off with this toe-tapping arrangement of two standards that are already lively. One of the most remarkable things about it is the fact that the chorus that backs him and adds so much to the arrangement is evidently comprised of his own, multi-tracked self.
PHILIP CLAYPOOL/Come On Back Home
Writers: Philip Claypool/John Swatner; Producer: Michael Lloyed; Publisher: Heyday/Swat, BMI; Heyday (track)
-The title tune of Claypool’s latest is an uptempo country bopper. The song might be lively, but the lyric is a yearning plea for a lover to return. Listenable.
JASON D. WILLIAMS/Hillbillies and Holy Rollers
Writers: Jason D. Williams/Dale Watson; Producer: Dale Watson; Publishers: none listed; Rockabilly (track)
-Considering how much this charming ball of energy’s sound harkens back to the classic days of rockabilly music, it comes as a surprise to learn that his new CD is the first he has recorded at Sun Studios in Memphis. The title tune is a rollicking honky tonker embellished by his Jerry Lee -style piano flourishes and confident, echo-chamber vocals. As the title suggests, it is equal parts church and barroom. Ya gotta love this guy.
CASPER McWADE/Whiskey
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Cabin Creek
-I like his resonant baritone delivery, and the song is well crafted. The pace drags just a little. But the release’s biggest problem is its lack of information. I’d like to know who this guy is and who wrote the song, and the packaging offers zero about either one.
DANIEL LEE/Backwood Tobacco
Writers: Daniel Lee/Lynn Hutton/John Henderson; Producer: Shannon Houchins & Noah Gordon; Publishers: Daniel Lee/House of Sea Gayle/Words & Music/Bug/Murrah/BMG, BMI/ASCAP; Average Joes
-Like everything else on this label, this rocks strenuously. For a change, however, the label’s disc features someone who can actually sing. An extremely promising debut. Keep it up.
SILO ROAD/4 Quarters
Writers: Broome/Swindle; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed, BMI; Cabin Creek
-Incompetently recorded. Find a producer.
CHASE BRYANT/Take It On Back
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Red Bow (ERG)
-I am told this youngster put on a fine show during CMA Music Fest. At any rate, he’s now being featured in Teen Vogue and is making his Grand Ole Opry debut on Friday. His single is an upbeat, nostalgic ditty that recalls young love to the accompaniment of a catchy rhythm track, rippling banjo, snazzy electric guitar breaks, occasional electro effects and some harmonizing backup singers. Clap hands and sing along.

DISClaimer: Joe Nichols Wins Disc of the Day

August 13, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

The story today is told by the newcomer females.
Three of them are vying for the DisCovery Award—Ashley Barron, Olivia Lane and our winner, Risa Binder. She may be a newcomer, but she’s a smart cookie. Her 5-track Nashville EP contains songs penned by Matraca Berg, Lauren Lucas, Marc Beeson and other top-drawer talents. And Luke Wooten has given her the best-produced recording of this entire listening session.
Last week, we had one of my favorite male country singers in our spotlight, Chris Young. This week, we have another, the equally splendid Joe Nichols. He takes home the Disc of the Day prize.
Another trend of the day was folks doing double duty by working in different departments. You’ll find Ilya Toshinsky here producing Olivia’s disc and playing guitar on Risa’s. Tyler Farr is present as both a singer and as the co-writer of the Brushville single.
BRUSHVILLE/Baby’s Got Her Boots On
Writer: Tyler Farr/Houston Phillips/Cole Taylor; Producer: Kyle Lehning ; Publisher: Sony-ATV Tree/Make It a Bucket/Mount It/Universal/No Bridge, BMI/ASCAP; Brushville (track) (www.brushville.com)
—This Illinois five-piece band was smart enough to enlist one of Nashville’s finest producers when it came to town to record. But I don’t know that I’d have chosen this word-y song for a single.
TEA GOANS/Nobody Wins
Writer: Kris Kristofferson; Producer: Terry Choate; Publisher: EMI Blackwood/Resaca, BMI; Crosswind (CDX) (615-467-3860)
—Goans remains one of my favorite current female country singers. She gives this a fine, moaning, honky-tonk balladeer interpretation. But Brenda Lee’s throaty 1973 version remains definitive.
RHETT WALKER BAND/Here’s to the Ones
Writer: Rhett Canipe/Kenny Davis/Joe Kane/Paul Moak; Producer: Paul Moke; Publisher: Sony-ATV/Ships in a Bottle/Give Me Analog/Grizzly Blue/Universal/Brentwood Benson/Paul Moak, SESAC/ASCAP; Essential (CDX) (www.therhettwalkerband.com)
—I think it’s meant to sound stirring and inspirational. Despite its earnest, blue-collar intentions, the country rocker never seemed to connect with me. This sort of thing has been done better by others in the mainstream rock field.
CLINTON GREGORY & IRA DEAN/You Can’t Hide High
Writer: Tommy Curry/Jayce Hein/Dennis Knudson; Producer: Larry Beaird; Publisher: Chubu/Busy at Play/Melody Roundup/Bluewater, BMI; Melody Roundup (CDX) (www.melodyroundupmusic.com)
—He’s secretly growing weed at home. But as soon as he fires it up, “You can’t hide high.” Your eyes are red, you’re laughing like a loony, and you’ve got the munchies. Goofy fun for stoners everywhere. Stay tuned for the ad libs at the end: “I feel like we’re smoking Willie Nelson’s brain” and the like.
T. GRAHAM BROWN & VINCE GILL/He’ll Take Care of You
Writer: Dan Penn/Gary Nicholson/Donnie Fritts; Producer: Mark L. Carman & T. Graham Brown; Publisher: Sony-ATV/Dan Penn, BMI; MCM (CDX) (www.tgrahambrown.com)
—As you might guess from those writer credits, this has a Southern-soul vibe. And of course, blue-eyed soulman Brown is just the singer for this kind of song. Gill proves to be just as bluesy during his turn at the mic. Groove soaked and audio seductive. Get down with it.
ASHLEY BARRON/It Might Get Loud
Writer: Pat Kelley; Producer: Bobby Zoppi; Publisher: none listed; AB (track)
—The title tune to this gal’s CD is just barely produced. She sings okay, but it sounds like a demo.
TYLER FARR/A Guy Walk Into a Bar
Writer: Melissa Peirce/Jonathan Singleton/Brad Tursi; Producer: Bill Catino & Julian King; Publisher: Platinum Molly/East Pass/Nashvistaville/Disney/Super Big/Jett/Big Machine/Songs of Big Deal/BMG, BMI/ASCAP; Columbia
—Nicely written, with a catchy chorus that loops back on itself. I could have done without the inappropriate, arena-rock guitar solo, but as long as you focus on Farr’s distinctive, furry-rasp vocal, this is a dandy effort. Hit bound.
OLIVIA LANE/Steal Me Away
Writer: Olivia Lane/Lee Thomas Miller/Ilya Toshinsky; Producer: Ilya Toshinsky; Publisher: Liv Write Play/Warner-Chappell/It, SESAC/BMI/ASCAP; Big Spark (www.olivialane.com)
—Rousing. She’s a filly breaking out of the starting gate at a full gallop. Both her vocal and the production are super sunny. Well worth your radio spins.
JOE NICHOLS/Hard to Be Cool
Writer: Rob Hatch/Jason Sellers; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones; Publisher: Legends of Magic Mustang/Big Loud Bucks/Sony-ATV Cross Keys/Becky’s Boy, SESAC/ASCAP; Red Bow (track) (www.joenichols.com)
—This guy gets me every time. On this outing, he’s tearing it up on an asphalt track, roaring with the throttle wide open. “She’s so hot, it’s hard to be cool,” he sings while the rhythm track pounds away relentlessly. Get up and dance!
RISA BINDER/Gotta Have You
Writer: Phil Barton/Emily Shackelton/Victoria Banks; Producer: Luke Wooten; Publisher: HoriPro/Liz Rose/Rare Spark Media Group, no performance rights listed; Warehouse (track) (www.risabinder.com)
—She sings with striking country clarity, and the superb production mixes her up front and center. The propulsive, gripping arrangement is an arrow pointed straight at the sun. The melody is beyond hooky. Prepare to fall in love.

DISClaimer: What's In A Name?

August 6, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

Chris Young

I think I’ll make a record and bill myself as Garth Brooks.
That’s kind of what our DisCovery Award winner is up to. Here’s the story. Nashville’s Brian Collins is an established country singer who has recorded for Mega, ABC/Dot, RCA, Primero and other labels. He made the charts 15 times between 1971 and 1984. He had a top-10 hit in 1974 with his version of “Statue of a Fool,” and his top-25 hit version of “That’s the Way Love Should Be” became an even bigger hit song for Dave & Sugar in 1977.
He also wrote and originated “Hello Texas,” which Jimmy Buffett sang on the multi-million selling soundtrack of Urban Cowboy. This Brian Collins is a previous ACM nominee for New Male Vocalist of the Year, is known as a Texas “Ambassador of Good Will” and recorded a CD as recently as 2013.
I imagine he’ll be quite surprised to learn that there is a man from Georgia who is launching his country career as, that’s right, Brian Collins. THAT Brian Collins can keep his DisCovery Award, as long as he agrees to alter his billing. You see, his name is already spoken for in the world of Country music.
There is no controversy about my choice for the Disc of the Day prize. Chris Young RULES.
J. MICHAEL HARTER/Holy Cowgirl
Writers: J. Michael Harter/Scott Harter/Earl Bud Lee/Scott Laurent/Bruce Wallace; Producer: none listed; Publishers: Anozira/Caroline Lane/We’re Working/2121/Ole, ASCAP/BMI; GMV/Anozira
-This rocks. The track has a serious bass undertow and a snarling guitar line. This super propulsive single also has a dance remix, which I totally understand. I only wish his white-boy vocal had more grit or passion.
THE SECRET SISTERS/Rattle My Bones
Writers: Brandi Carlile/Tim Hanserorth/Phil Hanserorth; Producer: T Bone Burnett; Publishers: Southern Oracle/WB, ASCAP; Cracker
-The album’s title is Put Your Needle Down, and it grabs you from the first notes of this opening track. It’s a rockabilly romp with “Everly Sisters” harmonies and a chugging, joyous bed of rhythm. Normally consigned to the backwaters of Americana, this duo takes a major step forward by getting Cracker Barrel distribution. So kudos to the Sisters, as well as to the retailer for gaining instant hip cred. As cool a sound as you’ll hear this year.
EILEEN CAREY/Bottle Your Crazy Up
Writers: Eleen Carey; Producer: none listed; Publisher: RolleyCstr, BMI; RoleyCstr
-It’s feisty-female ditty with a bopping arrangement. She isn’t an earth-shattering vocalist by any means, but gets points for energy, effort and good intentions.
CHRIS YOUNG/Lonely Eyes
Writers: Johnny Bulford/Jason Matthews/Laura Veltz; Producer: James Stroud; Publishers: Warner-Tamerlane/3JB/Fresh Baked Cookies, BMI; RCA (track)
-What a dreamboat. He watches her walk into the bar, sit down next to him, give him a look and he’s off and flirting. Chris turns the charm meter up to 10 on this throbbing roadhouse romance. He also sings his fanny off.
JAKE WARD & MELISSA BROOKE/Hit The Road
Writers: Jake Ward; Producer: none listed; Publisher: none listed; JW
-He sings well, in a pleading Texas tenor. She shadows him in flawless harmony, then takes a soulful verse on her own. The breezy arrangement and gentle pace contrast nicely with the heartache-to-hope lyric. You waft along with it, but alas it ends too abruptly.
MARTINA McBRIDE/All My Friends
Writers: Charles Scott Boyer, Jr.; Producer: Don Was; Publisher: Chappell, ASCAP; Rounder (track)
-Rounder’s resident rock legend Gregg Allman is the subject of a multi-artist tribute CD and DVD. The lone country female in the cast is Martina. Maybe that’s why they gave her the title tune, this soulful, bluesy ballad. Recorded live in Atlanta earlier this year, the discs also feature country’s Trace Adkins, Vince Gill, Zac Brown, Brantley Gilbert and Eric Church, plus Nashvillians John Hiatt, Jimmy Hall, Keb Mo and Warren Haynes. The whole package sounds like warmth and love.
KELSEA BALLERINI/Love Me Like You Mean It
Writers: Kelsea Ballerini/Josh Kerr/Lance Carpenter/Forest Glen Whitehead; Producer: Forest Glen Whitehead; Producer: none listed; Black River (track)
-She has a sweet, pert vocal delivery that’s endearing. Her song bops in all the right places, and the lyric rattles rapidly. Catchy and promising.
JOHN COWAN/Things I Haven’t Done
Writers: none listed; Producer: John McFee; Publishers: none listed; Compass (track)
-His seering, soulful tenor voice defined an era with Newgrass Revival. Then he embarked on a series of always-gripping solo efforts. Cowan sings lead for The Doobie Brothers now, and the band’s John McFee is behind the board for the singer’s Sixty CD. It leads off with this rhythmic slab of nostalgia and contemplation that rolls along smartly. The album includes guest spots by Leon Russell, Rodney Crowell, Chris Hillman, Bernie Leadon, Alison Krauss, Sam Bush, Huey Lewis, Bonnie Bramlett, Ray Benson, Jim Messina and more. Plus, Cowan interprets such fantastic classics as “Devil Woman,” “Run for Your Life” and “Miss the Mississippi.” Get in line pronto for its Aug. 26 street date.
BRIAN COLLINS/Never Really Left
Writers: B. Collins/T. Buppert; Producers: Mills Logan/Brian Collins; Publishers: Blue Light, SESAC; Blue Light (track)
-Not to be confused with the Texan Brian Collins who charted 15 times in the 1970s and 1980s, this Georgia boy has a confident, ultra-youthful, splendidly airy, superbly listenable country-rock approach that is just about irresistible. Dynamic and driving. Welcome to the party. Change your name.
OLD DOMINION/Shut Me Up
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; OD
-Members of this band are noted for writing tunes for Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan, The Band Perry (”Chainsaw,” “Better Dig Two”), Keith Urban, Scotty McCreery, Craig Morgan (”Wake Up Lovin’ You”), Jake Owen, Steve Holy, Chris Young (”Neon”) and others. But they have the goods to become stars, themselves. This fizzy, guitar-driven, relentless sizzler deserves to become a massive radio favorite. Sign this band. Now.

DISClaimer: The Summer Doldrums

July 30, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

Thomas Rhett

Is this what they mean by the summer doldrums?
I found nothing today that you can’t live without. Sure, there are plenty of pleasant prospects. But there’s precious little that will stop you in your tracks.
The most beautifully sung record in today’s stack of platters is unquestionably the Ray Price/Martina McBride duet. If you must have a major-label effort on the front row of your playlist, make it the Thomas Rhett single. Those two can share the Disc of the Day award.
We have encountered almost everyone in this column before. I was particularly glad to hear from Mark McKinney, Lucas Hoge and Ray Scott again. All three of them continue to impress. Our new faces are Native Run, to whom we present a DisCovery Award.
RAY SCOTT/Drinkin’ Beer
Writers: Ray Scott/Tony Mullins; Producer: Dave Brainard; Publishers: Songs of Universal/Rayality/T. Mullins, BMI/ASCAP; DeciBel (CDX)
-His deep-macho delivery remains riveting. The hopping, bopping, dobro-laced track is a merry, grinning delight. Eminently programmable.
MONTGOMERY GENTRY/Headlights
Writers: Wendell Mobley/Tony Martin/Bob DiPiero; Producer: Michael Knox; Publishers: Warner-Tamerlane/Fonde Mountain/Sony-ATV Tree/Casa Jaco/Love Monkey, BMI; Blaster
-Bro-country, delivered with the volume turned up to 10. Headache inducing.
CANAAN SMITH/Love You Like That
Writers: Canaan Smith/Brett Beavers/Jim Beavers; Producers: Brett Beavers/Jimmy Robbins; Publishers: BMG Gold/Skinny Fat Nashville/BMG RM/BMG Platinum/Music of Big Deal/Stalefish/Sony-ATV Tree, ASCAP/BMI; Mercury (CDX)
-Listenable and engaging. His youthful tenor is a perfect fit for the ultra-romantic lyric.
RAY PRICE & MARTINA MCBRIDE/An Affair To Remember
Writers: Harold Adamson/Harry Warren/Leo McCarey; Producer: Fred Foster; Publishers: Twentieth Century/EMI Catalog/EMI Feist, ASCAP; AmeriMonte (CDX)
-The lush string section, clear keyboard notes and glistening harp playing create a cloud-like setting for these two heavenly voices. Taken from Price’s farewell CD, this is ballad singing at its finest. The song was the lustrous theme of a 1957 Cary Grant/Deborah Kerr cinema romance and a pop hit for its soundtrack singer, Vic Damone.
THOMAS RHETT/Make Me Wanna
Writers: T.Rhett/Bart Butler/Larry McCoy; Producer: Jay Joyce; Publishers: EMI Blackwood/Cricket on the Line/Bill Butler/Hondo Creek, BMI/SESAC; Valory Music
-A sexy Southern summer sound with forward momentum to spare.
JODY LYNN/The World’s Out Dancin’
Writers: Ian Golightly/Alan Fender; Producers: Jack Gale/Jim Pierce; Publisher: Lovey, BMI; Playback (track)
-She’s country, country, country. The sprightly track scampers along on its tippy toes while her slightly-flat, belting delivery gasps to keep pace.
DOLLY PARTON/Lay Your Hands On Me
Writers: Jon Bon Jovi/Richie Sambora; Producer: Kent Wells; Publishers: Universal PolyGram/Bon Jovi, ASCAP; Dolly/Sony/WEA
-Dolly covers Bon Jovi! Her sanctified vocal performance of the 1989 rock hit is solid and almost manages to vanquish a too-busy, too-electrified track.
LUCAS HOGE/Flip Flops
Writers: Lucas Hoge/J.D. Wood; Producer: none listed; Publishers: House of Hoge/Different Day/ASCAP; Reviver
-Innocent, small-town kids head for their first time at the beach in this charming and bubbly ditty. In case you were wondering, “flip flops” rhymes with “bikini tops.”

Native Run

NATIVE RUN/Good On You
Writers: Rachel Beauregard/Bryan Dawley/Steve Moakler; Producers: Luke Laird/Native Run; Publishers: Internal Combustion/Songs of Creative Nation/Warner-Tamerlane/Rachel Beauregard/Dawley/Nan Jam/Songs of Kobalt, BMI; Show Dog
-The voices of this male-female duo are somewhat colorless, but the overall vibe is unmistakably jaunty, happy, sunny and warm. The track mixes acoustic instruments with beefy rhythm effectively.
MARK McKINNEY/Maybe We Should
Writers: Mark McKinney; Producers: Mark McKinney/Eric McKinney; Publishers: none listed; MM
-I like his husky, ingratiating and personable singing a lot. He sounds like somebody you’d like to share a beer with. His romantic come-on in this song is equipped with smiles and gentle persuasion. This boy has the goods.

DISClaimer: A Session Full of Surprises

July 23, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

Disc of the Day winners Florida Georgia Line

Hats off to Maddie & Tae for delivering a feisty female romp that slaps down the “bro-country” genre. A salute to Jake Owen for making a left turn into soulful ballad territory. A nod to rocking newcomers The Cadillac Three.
The Disc of the Day award goes to Florida Georgia Line for taking on a song of surprising substance.

DISCovery winner Danika Portz visits MusicRow.

And speaking of surprises: The DISCovery Award belongs to Danika Portz. I can’t remember the last time I heard a new artist with this much creativity at her fingertips.
THE CADILLAC THREE/Party Like You
Writer: Jon Nite/Jimmy Robbins/Jaren Johnston; Producer: Dann Huff & Justin Niebank; Publisher: EMI April/Jon Mark Nite/Universal/Extraordinary Alien/Sony-ATV/Texa Rae, ASCAP; Big Machine
–Rocking and Southern sexy. Getting loaded in the bar with a dancing doll driving him wild. The relentless track drives like there’s no tomorrow.
JAMES HOUSE/Everytime It Rains
Writer: J. House/M. Bradford; Producer: James House & Michael Bradford; Publisher: none listed; Victor House
–House’s new CD includes his versions of hits he’s written for others—“Ain’t That Lonely Yet” (Dwight), “A Broken Wing” (Martina) and “In a Week or Two” (Diamond Rio)—plus new gems like this dramatic, brooding outing. He still sings like a bird.

Maddie and Tae

MADDIE & TAE/Girl in a Country Song
Writer: Aaron Scherz/Maddie Marlow/Taylor Dye; Producer: Dann Huff & Aaron Scherz; Publisher: Big Music Machine/Super Big/Big Machine, BMI/ASCAP; Dot
–Fabulous. They have the guts to sass every “bro-country” cliche out there. She hates her tight cut-offs, her bikini top and being called pretty little thing, hottie or baby. Not to mention being whistled at, shaking her money maker and being invited to ride along in the pickup truck. Bonus points for the lively tune, the catchy track, the saucy harmonies and the overall wit. I guarantee you will smile.
DUSTIN LYNCH/Where It’s At
Writer: Cary Barlowe/Zach Crowell/Matt Jenkins; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones; Publisher: none listed; Broken Bow
–The “Cowboys and Angels” man is back. The lead single from his forthcoming CD is a bopping romance ditty with a sunny disposition.
DANIKA PORTZ/Greatest Show on Earth
Writer: none listed; Producer: Steve Mitchell, Danika Portz & John Willis; Publisher: none listed; DP
–The imaginative “circus” production touches are matched by terrifically inventive songwriting and a highly accomplished, sweet/tart vocal. There’s a bonanza of creativity on parade here. Essential listening.

Jake Owen

JAKE OWEN/What We Ain’t Got
Writer: Travis Jerome Goff/Travis Meadows; Producer: Joey Moi; Publisher: Red Vinyl/Words & Music/Songs of Universal, BMI; RCA
–Jake tries on a ballad for a change. His aching delivery of its lovelorn lyric is right on the money. The simple piano accompaniment emphasizes what an expressive performance this is. Love it.
SCARLETTA/That’s Where You’re Gonna Find Me
Writer: none listed; Producer: TheTimeKeepers (Stefon Hamulak & Eric Torres); Publisher: none listed; Average Joes
–Congratulations. Scarletta lead singer Emilie Allan becomes the first female to sing a bro country song. She’s even volunteering to wear her Daisy Dukes for ya.
SHOOTER JENNINGS/Don’t Wait Up
Writer: Shooter Jennings; Producer: Shooter Jennings; Publisher: none listed; BCR
–Shooter’s new five-song EP is a salute to George Jones. His vocal delivery of its title tune is garbled, muffled and mush-mouthed, but has a certain quasi-psychedelic charm, thanks to a twinkling, trippy track.
FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE/Dirt
Writer: Chris Tompkins/Rodney Clawson; Producer: Joey Moi; Publisher: Big Loud Songs/Play Animal/Big Red Toe/Farm Town, ASCAP/BMI; Republic Nashville
–Swirling, atmospheric and completely involving. The song is marvelous, and their delivery of it drawls and soars. Play it again.
BRINLEY ADDINGTON/Middle of Nowhere
Writer: Ryan Hurd/Joey Hyde/Aaron Eshuis/Matthew McGuin; Producer: Phil O’Donnell & Aaron Eshuis; Publisher: none listed; BA
–For such a simple sentiment, it sure is a busy production.

DISClaimer: An Americana Review

July 16, 2014/by Robert K Oermann

With master song craftspeople David Olney and Mary Gauthier celebrating new record releases in these past few days, the signs are right for an Americana review session.
We’re breaking the Disc of the Day into three parts. In our female division, we crown Mary Gauthier, of course. It is also a given that David Olney wins the male sweepstakes. The group award goes to Dualtone’s esteemed Shovels & Rope.
I have never before heard of David White. But what a talent. He takes home this week’s DisCovery Award.
REAGAN BOGGS/On A Bad Note
Writers: R. Boggs/Producers: Eric Fritsch/Reagan Boggs; Publishers: Reagan Boggs, BMI; Reckless Bess
-The Reagan Boggs CD Quicksand leads off with this slow-burning neo-soul groover. She delivers its earthy lyrics of failed romance with a sultry sigh. She is backed by The Coal Men and co-producer Eric Fritsch, who sound as good or better as any band in town. Recommended.
DAVID OLNEY/When The Deal Goes Down
Writers: David Olney; Producers: David Olney/Mark Robinson; Publishers: Red Lilly, ASCAP; Deadbeet (track)
-The title tune of Olney’s latest collection is one of his passionate, darkly intense creations that manages to rock your body as well as stimulate your brain. If this man’s works aren’t already in your record collection, your Nashville songwriting education is remedial. You will not find a finer story teller about the mysteries of love, life and death. On Tuesdays, visit his website for his weekly “You Never Know” streams of singing and musing.
NORTH OF NASHVILLE/Eyes For Me
Writers: Jay Basiner; Producers: Jonathan Wyman & North of Nashville; Publishers: none listed; NON (track)
-Like, way-way north. “North” all the way to Portland, Maine, where this duo is headquartered. Their style has an “outlaw” country thump, yet is firmly rooted in acoustic fiddle music. Intriguing, if a little thin sounding.
MARY GAUTHIER/Another Train
Writers: Mary Gauthier/Ben Glover; Producers: Marty Gauthier/Patrick Granado; Publishers: none listed; ASCAP/PRS; In The Black (track)
-This is the tune Gauthier sang at her recent Grand Ole Opry debut (backed by Marty Stuart, Kathy Mattea and Radney Foster, no less). On her new Trouble & Love CD, the sad, languid ballad features Guthrie Trapp, Darrell Scott, Viktor Krauss and Beth Nielsen Chapman. Scott is also prominently featured on the brilliant, atmospheric, gospel-flavored “Oh Soul,” and Chapman co-wrote two of the collection’s songs. The McCrary Sisters and Ashley Cleveland (plus Scott) are singing on the stately heartbreaker “Walking Each Other Home.” Gauthier co-wrote that with newly anointed Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Gretchen Peters, as well as the stunning “When a Woman Grows Cold” and “How You Learn to Live Alone” (which was sung by Jonathan Jackson on Season 2 of Nashville). In addition to the Opry, Gauthier’s album has recently been in the spotlight on NPR’s “Fresh Air.” Buy this record.
DAVID WHITE/Midnight Shift at the Maplewood Methodist Church
Writers: David White/Ashley Gorley; Producers: David White; Publishers: Everytown/Music of Windswept/Bug/BMG Chrysalis, ASCAP; Footpath (track)
-White is a Brentwood-based pediatrician with a style of vocal delivery that echoes James Taylor and a grasp of story-telling song craftsmanship that is right up there with the best of Music City. He also has one heckuva address book, for his self-produced opus features a cast that includes Chris Thile, Stuart Duncan, Dan Tyminiski, Bryan Sutton, Paul Franklin and Jerry Douglas. This Long Roots CD is an awesome disc debut.
SHOVELS & ROPE/The Devil Is All Around
Writers: Shovels & Rope; Producer: Michael Trent; Publishers: Famous Nightclub/Noberta Jean, BMI; Dualtone (track)
-The duo’s new Swimmin’ Time album comes out on Aug. 26, but you can hear this preview of its opening track now on its website. They shout this journey of the soul in thrilling twin harmonies while backed by a punching rhythm section. Be among the first to get on board.
THE STATESBORO REVUE/Huck Finn
Writers: J. Mann/S. Mann; Producers: The Statesboro Revue; Publishers: none listed; Shalley/Vision
-The Mann brothers recorded their new CD in Nashville as well as back home in Texas. Its single is a loose-limbed, rambling outing that recalls a vintage track by The Band. Jaunty and highly listenable.
PETER COOPER/Opening Day
Writers: Peter Cooper; Producer: Peter Cooper; Publisher: Well Known, SESAC; Red Beet (track)
–Tennessean music writer Cooper also pursues a side career as a singer-songwriter. The title tune of his latest evokes the promise and hope that come with a new baseball season. The fact that we Pirates fans so often come to the fall in disappointment goes without saying. Sweetly sad and wonderfully evocative.
THE HANDSOME FAMILY/Spider
Writers: Brett Sparks/Rennie Sparks; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Carrot Top (track)
-Sloppy, simplistic string-band music for children.
BRIGITTE DeMEYER/Savannah Road
Writers: Brigitte DeMeyer/Will Kimbrough; Producer: Brigitte DeMeyer; Publisher: Brigitte DeMeyer; BDM (track)
-The title tune of DeMeyer’s disc is a bluesy Southern backwoods lament that raises goosebumps and lives in steamy nostalgia. Her supporting cast on this collection includes Jeff Coffin, Will Kimbrough, Guthrie Trapp, Michael Rhodes and The McCrary Sisters. Let a word to the wise be sufficient.