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As only they can, The Statesboro Revue insert a hefty dose of soulful, groovy goodness into their version of the holiday classic "Run Run Rudolph." Take a listen below.
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 Nashville, Tenn. (December 16, 2016) – Acclaimed singer-songwriter Sean McConnell celebrates the release of his new holiday song “Mary and Joe” today. Additionally, McConnell has released an acoustic performance video for the song. Watch the video here.
McConnell says, “I was taken with the idea of imagining Mary and Joseph as a modern day young couple, possibly shunned and poor and struggling to bring their baby in to a cold world without any means. I wanted the song to have some real blood and sweat and edges to it. It was really intriguing and emotional for me to explore the thought of these characters surrounded by a world of cheap cars, seedy motels, exit ramps, and dilapidated parking lot shacks. It was almost an exercise to see what would happen if I focused almost entirely on the human instead of the divine. It's a gritty and raw take on the Christmas story and I love that about it." 
Scott H. Biram will release a new album, entitled The Bad Testament, on February 24. This will be his 10th album overall and 6th with Bloodshot Records. His first since 2014's Nothin' But Blood, The Bad Testament lands somewhere west of the Old Testament and south of the AA handbook, straddling the chasm between sin and redemption. It’s a record of hard-grinding lost love, blues and deep, dark Americana.
PRE-ORDER LINK: https://www.bloodshotrecords.com/album/bad-testament Rolling Stone Country announced the release along with a premiere of a new song "Long Old Time", saying, "Biram evokes the haunted bluesmen and country singers of the past on the greasy blues number, singing as a man out of options and trapped by his bad decisions." Listen to the track after the jump.  Frontman Kevin Russell and co-producer Jimbo Mathus
throw a 12-track party with Tijuana Train Wreck Horns and Shiny Soul Sisters at Houston’s legendary SugarHill Recording Studios AUSTIN, Texas (Press Release)– Not too many years ago, Austin singer-songwriter Kevin Russell, the man behind the entity known as Shinyribs, had a revelation. He was discussing schoolteachers with his kids, and mentioned his first two were Miss Martin and Miss Gibson. That’s when he realized his destiny had been shaped decades ago, like the headstocks of his favorite guitars. In fact, Miss Gibson’s impact reached even further. The Beaumont, Texas, native remembers the moment his 7-year-old ears heard her pronouncement, “You are a writer.” He knew even then that he wanted to apply that skill to songs; she gave him the confidence to pursue that dream. Seven years later, he started strumming and composing, and now, on February 24, 2017, Shinyribs the man and Shinyribs the eight-person band are about to dose fans with the exuberant swamp-pop soul-funk of their fourth release, I Got Your Medicine. Tracked at Houston’s legendary SugarHill Recording Studios, it carries a New Orleans R&B vibe — with extra gris-gris added by Russell’s co-producer, Jimbo Mathus.  Courtesy: HBPR Nashville, TN — December 15, 2016 (Press Release)— Rising indie act Hudson Moore’s “Sand In The Bed” has been streamed over 1 MILLION times! The song took on a life of its own after being added to Spotify’s New Boots Playlist and has quickly become a fan favorite. The infectious, feel good song was co-written by Moore along with JT Hodges and Andrew Petroff for his critically acclaimed album GETAWAY.
Rolling Stone Country has named Moore one of “10 New Country Artists You Need To Know. “ Making the claim that Moore sounds like “one of those road-trip radio sweet spots where two great stations - in this case, modern country and Top 40 pop - weave in and out to create a unique sonic hybrid." "Sand In The Bed" has also become a crowd pleaser on the road with fans singing the words back to him in chorus. Moore recently wrapped a successful headline tour in support of his current album GETAWAY and performed to yet another packed house last night at Sam’s Burger Joint in San Antonio. With talents that reach beyond a triple threat, the multi-instrumentalist is confident and electrifying when he takes to the stage. Moore often plays multiple instruments during his set, and in fact, performed on over 11 instruments while recording his album in the studio - while bringing in a group of esteemed musicians to help round out the sound. Moore’s new single “Might As Well” already has early adds in Top 40 markets as we head into the holidays. Moore is looking forward to taking some time off this season to spend time with his family before heading back on tour where he will join Eli Young Band on tour later this month. As always, for me, a great album is one that stirs something deep and moves me emotionally; reaching in and drawing out feelings whether it's pure joy, big crocodile tears or something in between. Like last year, I listened to my fair share of albums, both for review and pleasure; so in order to narrow down the pool, there were no live albums, EPs, reissues, or compilations included in this list. The albums you find below all had that special something that drew me to listen to them consistently and repeatedly. Let me know if you agree, disagree, and, of course, what I might have missed.
1. Sean McConnell (Self-Titled) The accomplished tunesmith (who has written too-numerous-to-count songs which others recorded) released his self-titled Rounder debut in July. The immaculately produced ten-song collection immerses the listener in McConnell’s honest, emotional songwriting and understated, flawless vocals on an album replete with poignant lyrics and unforgettable melodies that leave you with a palpable sense of McConnell’s gratefulness for the past, happiness with the present, and anticipation for the future. Although the incredibly moving stories are his, they are utterly identifiable and absolutely resonate. Fave tracks: "Running Under Water", "Beautiful Rose" 2. Ryan Beaver 'Rx' Another accomplished songwriter, Beaver's May release, anchored by the hopeful resilience of “Dark” and the melancholy nostalgia and idealism of “If I Had A Horse,” is a collection of songs that are lyrically and sonically compelling, interesting, effective, and universally relatable. Beaver, who co-wrote nine of the twelve tracks, brings insight to a myriad of emotions including sentimentality, innocence, and longing and merges them with a welcome, edgy frankness; successfully conveying sentiments to either male or female in “a-ha” moments that have you realizing he nailed it. Fave tracks: "Rum and Roses", "Gravedigger" 3. Elise Davis 'The Token' Released in September, Davis' The Token is a painstakingly honest look at the female struggles intertwining love, relationships, and commitment that, imbued with the matrix of emotions that often accompany those things, makes for a record that captures something raw, real and responsive that often hits too close to home. Fave tracks: "Pretty Girl", "I Go To Bars and Get Drunk" 4.Butch Walker 'Stay Gold' Not your average choice for an Americana/alt-country/country blog but hell, Walker's album is killer; lyric-driven pop/rock that's overflowing with infectious hooks, boundless energy and emotional ballads, including one with Ashley Monroe. Fave tracks: "Irish Exit", "Can We Just Not Talk About Tonight" 5.BJ Barham 'Rockingham' While Barham's songs for American Aquarium have always been personal and genuine - readily connecting with the listener - those traits have never been felt more strongly than on his solo effort which was released in August. Rockingham paints a picture of home - North Carolina, but really anywhere in small town USA - in substantive snapshots of the lives of the everyman and woman who reside (and try to get by) there with a dark realism, emotional depth, and authenticity that's unmatched. Fave tracks: "O' Lover", "Unfortunate Kind" 6. Kelsey Waldon 'I've Got A Way' Honest to God country music in a beautifully classic, truly traditional collection of ten songs (eight originals, and two covers) that showcase a woman who is independent, honest and assured, creating music that is meaningful, touching and timeless. Fave tracks: "You Can Have It", "I'd Rather Go On" 7. Lori McKenna 'The Bird & The Rifle' Incredibly impactful storytelling (and you'd expect nothing less from one of Nashville's most highly regarded songwriters), on ten tracks that mine the facets of relationships including love, heartache, and hope. Fave tracks: "Wreck You", "Old Men Young Women" 8. Randy Rogers Band 'Nothing Shines Like Neon' Released in January, RRB delivers an album of traditional country that includes both heartbreaking and swoonworthy ballads, a hint of the blues, and some rebel rousing barroom sing-a-longs with guest spots throughout from Jamey Johnson, Alison Krauss, Dan Tyminski, and Jerry Jeff Walker (as well as a tune penned with McConnell). The album's earnest, introspective lyrics, tender and spirited melodies, as well as precise musicianship, make it a record that shines brightly indeed. Fave tracks: "Tequila Eyes", "San Antone" 9. Jamestown Revival 'The Education of A Wandering Man' Good Lord this record. The Austin-based duo's latest will feed your spirit and soothe your soul with stories that detail the working man, the push and pull of love, and the desire for the road all the while blending blues, country, and soul in perfect proportion. Fave tracks: "Airliner", "Almost All The Time" 10. Reckless Kelly 'Sunset Motel' In their 20th year, Reckless Kelly continues to do what they do best on the recently Grammy-nominated (Best Recording Package) album. Balancing country and rock, their songs center around affecting songcraft, rousing and emotional melodies, and dynamic musicianship that never fails to satisfy. Fave tracks: "Forever Today", "One More One Last Time" Colin Hay Follows Banner Year with Definitive Solo Release, 'Fierce Mercy,' Due March 3rd12/15/2016  LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Fierce Mercy is an epic, cinematic step forward from singer-songwriter Colin Hay, most beloved for his intimate, confessional live shows but most widely known for being an influential and celebrated frontman. The range of artists who have chosen to cite him as a muse or who have found themselves on stage with him in the past year spans the genre landscape from heavy metal, to Americana, to Cuban rhythms and beyond. His inclusion as a playlist favorite from the likes of Metallica to The Lumineers reflects his continuing relevance and broad appeal.
The album is due out March 3, 2017 on Compass Records. Recorded in both Los Angeles and Nashville and mixed by Vance Powell (Chris Stapleton, Jack White) and Gordon Hammond (Buddy Miller, Don Williams), Fierce Mercy explores themes of love and loss, mortality, and even the odd UFO sighting, but always with the singular perspective and insightful wit that define Hay’s work. He has created a new classic in his impressive repertoire (this is his 13th solo release), using a palette of pop songcraft, Americana flourishes, and soundtrack-ready strings. Fierce Mercy is animated by its pensive, honest, and impassioned lyrics, and, Hay adds, by a sense of urgency felt deeply in the song “The Last to Know,” which introduces the album’s title concept of “fierce mercy.”  Multi-GRAMMY®-winning singer/songwriter to visit Museum's 200-seat Clive Davis Theater for special Q&A and performance on Monday, January 23, 2017 at 8 PM; Tickets on sale to general public starting December 22, 2016 at noon
(Nashville, TN and Los Angeles, CA Press Release) December, 2016 -- The Americana Music Association and the GRAMMY Museum® are thrilled to announce the kickoff of the 2017 Americana Series with An Evening With Rodney Crowell on Monday, January 23, 2017 at 8 PM. The multi-GRAMMY®-winning singer/songwriter will visit the Museum's 200-seat Clive Davis Theater for a conversation moderated by Scott Goldman, Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares. The conversation will be followed by a performance. "We are so excited to welcome Rodney Crowell to our theater for the first program of the year in our Americana Series," said Lynne Sheridan, Director of Public Programs & Artist Relations for the GRAMMY Museum® and member of the Board of Directors for the Americana Music Association. "Aside from being an incredibly talented songwriter and musician, Crowell's contributions to the music community and Americana genre are unmatched. We look forward to what will surely be an unforgettable evening of music and conversation." "We truly value our partnership with the GRAMMY Museum®," added Jed Hilly, Executive Director of the Americana Music Association. "This series has been fantastic and we are thrilled to kick off the New Year with the amazing Rodney Crowell." Tickets for An Evening With Rodney Crowell are $25 and can be purchased at axs.com beginning Thursday, December 22, 2016 at 12 PM PST/10 AM CST. All proceeds will benefit the education initiatives of the GRAMMY Museum®.  Courtesy: Webster PR NASHVILLE, Tenn. (December 14, 2016 Press Release) – Rebel Engine Entertainment recording artist Stephanie Quayle makes her national television debut on Fox & Friends this Friday, December 16. The Montana native will be performing her critically-acclaimed single, “Drinking With Dolly” as well as the holiday classic “White Christmas.” Quayle is celebrating topping the CMT Music 12-Pack Countdown with the “Drinking With Dolly” music video. Click here to download “Drinking With Dolly.”
Fox & Friends Dec. 16 6:00 AM (ET) Performance and interview set for the 8:00 AM (ET) hour Fox News Channel (Click here for local listings) The video for “Drinking With Dolly” premiered last month on CMT. To watch the video for “Drinking With Dolly” click here. Earlier this year Quayle announced a partnership with Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply. In addition to in-store appearances fans of Quayle will be able to see her Top Picks of the Month across all of Murdoch’s social media. This includes Quayle’s favorite boots, accessories, tops and jeans from the fashion apparel collection. Murdoch’s customers can see her favorite equine, farming, camping and firearms equipment featured in the store’s Top Picks. Quayle has been in the studio with producer Matt McClure recording new music for the much anticipated full project.mFor more information on Stephanie Quayle visit stephaniequayle.com and follow her on Facebook and Twitter.  Hosted by Branford Marsalis, the drama features a cast that includes
Nnenna Freelon, Marshall Crenshaw, Don Dixon, Skylar Gudasz, Django Haskins, newcomers Millie McGuire and Kirsten Lambert, and soundtrack contributions from Will Campbell, Scott Sawyer, Bill Frisell, John Brown & more CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Occasional Shivers is a brand-new old-fashioned radio play airing this holiday season on public broadcasting, created by Southern-pop icon Chris Stamey for WUNC-FM(Chapel Hill) and distributed nationwide by American Public Media. Set in New York in 1963, the one-hour musical drama tells the story of two young lovers who meet at a pair of Christmas parties. The music is newly composed but sounds straight-up torch song, in the tradition of the Great American Songbook. Featured performers include Nnenna Freelon (singing the title song), Marshall Crenshaw, Don Dixon, Skylar Gudasz, Django Haskins (The Old Ceremony) alongside exciting newcomers Millie McGuire, Kirsten Lambert, Eric Hodge, Walker Harrison, and Presyce Baez, all backed by a jazz orchestra that includes contributions from Scott Sawyer, Will Campbell, John Brown, and Bill Frisell. With characters such as society hostess Birdie McDavenish (“I Didn’t Mean to Fall in Love with You”), famed composer Paul Carter (“Intoxichoclification”), and aspiring songwriter Will Cassidy (“Manhattan Melody [That’s My New York]”), the play harkens back to an era, after West Side Storybut before the Beatles on Ed Sullivan, when jazz had gone from hot to cool and it looked like rock and roll was on its last legs. |
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