If the songs on this EP sound vaguely familiar, it’s a very good thing. It could be because, with his debut EP Trace Nixon embodies an appreciation for the most recent glory days of traditional country music. He captures the essence of George Strait delivering an Alan Jackson song with all of the earnestness of … Continue reading
Unexpected Guests pairs a tight, traditional big band with 11 soloists from various genres—including symphonic, folk, Hawaiian, and rap—creating a fresh and eclectic sound. I particularly loved finding the adventurous Vince Gill contributing his vocal gifts to this project. It is inventive fusion of musicians and arranger Dan Radlauer’s dynamic style. One of the most … Continue reading
Sometimes a new release gets lost in the shuffle. But when it’s an album that I find myself playing over and over again, it’s only right that I share the good news. Rich Siegel’s It’s Always Been You is such an album. Released in September 2025, it offers a well-balanced set of songs that include … Continue reading
On track after track of Two Trains, Dave Keyes, a seasoned blues musician, really delivers, in both his piano playing and his vocals. The album captures the power of energetic blues piano at its finest. The first thing that stands out is that Dave Keyes surrounds and intertwines his performance with a stellar group of … Continue reading
It took one song (“S-C-A-M”) for me to decide I couldn’t wait to hear a second song. It took the second song (“Sunday Stroller”) to convince me that this CD was going to stay in my player for quite a while. That was days ago, and I’ve been in a very productive, great mood in … Continue reading
The strangest thing happened this weekend. The online service that distributes music to me for reviewing—a service which almost exclusively send me alt-country, blues, jazz, and other genres that could use a little online support—sent me the new Taylor Swift release. I could hardly believe it. Surely this is an artist who doesn’t need a … Continue reading
Live At Joe’s Pub, the new album from Lizzy & the Triggermen, would have made Joe Papp (whom the pub is named for) very happy. Why? Because it’s so good that it will likely inspire you to get out and listen to some live music. That’s about the nest you could say for a live … Continue reading
Good Crook, the latest album from Chris Vincent & The Raw Deals is very good indeed. The refreshing strength of Good Crook comes from its streamlined and powerful delivery of raw emotion. The album showcases Chris Vincent’s intimate, storytelling vocals and slide guitar, alongside the guidance of drummer Johnny Vidacovich and given dimension from Dean … Continue reading
Dierks Bentley’s four-song live release, The Sessions, features collaborations and classic country storytelling. The tracks are all strong, and balance each other to create a satisfying listening experience. They include a duet with Jordan Davis on “What Was I Thinkin’,” a cover of Keith Whitley’s “I’m No Stranger to the Rain,” Bentley’s own “Heartbreak Drinking … Continue reading
The title says it all. Heroes is a highly successful tribute to the musicians who have significantly contributed to Rick Keller’s growth as both a saxophonist and composer. The album is comprised of original compositions, each referencing the distinctive sounds and styles of eminent artists such as Miles Davis, Weather Report, Wayne Shorter, Joe Zawinul, … Continue reading
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