Label: Hopeless Romantic Records Joyann Parker is a powerful musician, singer, and I have no doubt, human being. All three are evident on each track of her new album, Roots — an inspiring blend of blues, rock, soul, and Americana that showcases Parker’s multiple strengths as a vocalist. Parker creates and sustains the perfect balance … Continue reading
Lucky is the singer who writes her own songs. As Charlotte Morris proves on her new album Wild Child, the best music is made when the singer and the songwriter are one. One voice, one heart, one story at a time resulting in one stunning album. While is seems that Charlotte Morris must deserve credit … Continue reading
On his new album, The Song Is You, Matt Barber does something almost unheard of these days. He places the focus on the song rather than his interpretation of it. While this might confuse some listeners, it should be recognized as a sign of his trust in the material. He recreates a golden age of … Continue reading
In Book of Stories, arising from composition, improvisation, synergy, and truth seeking, Critical Response challenges the average listener to find a way in to the ideas that have inspired this album. If the listener is up to it, there are rewards to be mined. Even if the tracks don’t point the direction to a solution, … Continue reading
From a stellar lineup of Austin Texas musicians, the Alex Coke & Carl Michel Sextet‘s new recording, Emergence, expands jazz boundaries with a feast of sound. Talk about refreshing. Someone please make a modern day film noir. The soundtrack is already ready. Emergence, overflows with atmosphere, drama, and possible storylines. Shining with an unmistakable power … Continue reading
Label: Club 88 Records (distributed by The Orchard) When you’ve got friends like Mitch Woods, why not invite a few of them over and see (or in this case, hear) what happens. Lucky for us, what happened was Friends Along the Way, a double disc of true blues joy. It’s a Deluxe edition re-release of … Continue reading
Well, if it takes attending a live concert to really feel Tim McGraw’s profound artistry, then so be it. If only Tim McGraw’s recorded sound were as thrilling as the material he sings. For some reason, the quality of his performances on his new album, Standing Room Only, simply do not match the sublime songs. … Continue reading
“Ole” is a good thing when it comes to rock. “Lonesome” is an even better thing when it comes to blues. Ole Lonesome is an exceedingly good thing when it comes to Texas-based blues/rock. Their recent new release, Tejas Motel, delivers jet propulsion-level energy to the songs they perform. There’s a swagger that these songs … Continue reading
Label: Rumblestump Records Release date: September 8, 2023 The songs on Babel, the upcoming album from Jhett Black, are as much warnings as interpretations. The gritty baritone vocals of Jhett Black’s rise from the Southern gospel/roots ashes, a smoldering foundation that offers stability to the tales and instrumental diversions that complete the musical conversation. These … Continue reading
It’s turning out to be “that year” for William Beckmann. Grand Ol’ Opry debut? Check. The release of an incredibly impressive EP? Check. Now all he needs is to read this review and believe every word in it. If you’re reading, Mr. Beckmann, take this posting to heart and use it to fortify the confidence … Continue reading
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