Country Fried Rock  show

Country Fried Rock

Summary: There was a time, not too long ago, when a road-trip across America meant channel surfing and cultural discovery. Drivers would hear the music morph as the view outside their windshield evolved. Accents would change. The food at roadside diners had a local flavor. These days? Not so much. Massive commercial radio behemoths have gobbled up the airwaves and churn out the same “mainstream” music from town to town. Corporate rock, commercial country and top-40 pop sound frighteningly similar. Discovery? Adventure? The spirit that once defined American radio is all but gone. It is into this musically bleak reality that a match has now been struck. Enter Country Fried Rock, a one-hour, weekly radio road trip that features some of the most exciting off-the-radar artists talking about, and playing, the music that moves them. From legendary veterans like James McMurtry to newcomers playing clubs and sleeping on couches, each episode features an in-depth conversation that explores motivations, fears and victories as America’s truest musical artists unpack their own tunes and the songs that inspire them. The sounds may range from bluegrass to indie-rock, but the heart beats true. Host and producer Sloane Spencer has been on-the-air at major radio stations for over a dozen years and is every bit as passionate about great music as she has ever been. You can hear the experience in her easy, conversational style. This unapologetic lover of all things “musically real” turns up the volume on Delta Blues, Western Swing, Rock & Roll, Singer-Songwriter, Folk, Honky-Tonk, R&B, soul, Gospel and many other Made-in-America treasures. “Rock and roll and country are really amalgams of so many incredible indigenous styles,” Spencer explains. “You don’t have to dig too deep to find a sort of creative spring that seems to feed all of these things.” Tapping that spring is what Country Fried Rock is all about. Each fully-licensed episode contains the eclectic, educated conversation of the best NPR programs, with top-drawer production and charisma of major commercial shows. “This is no fly-by-night podcast,” Spencer explains. “Each show is produced to the highest standards, is fully licensed with the PRO’s and Sound Exchange and is ready for air.” Her first 100 episodes are in the can and have featured acclaimed artists like Dawes, Joe Pug, Courtney Jaye, James McMurtry and many more. Now, after years of prep on college and satellite radio, Spencer’s musical adventure is ready for prime-time. The show is currently available for syndication on college, commercial, public and satellite radio and is looking to expand across America. “I appreciate and respect mainstream radio for what it is,” she adds, “I still work in that environment, but when I see thousands of people of all ages packing into clubs and festivals to enjoy this kind of music it lights me up. There is obviously a market for authentic American music and radio is not really reaching those people. That’s what Country Fried Rock is all about.” If you remember the romance of radio road trips, or if you’re too young for all that and just wish your iPod could introduce you to exciting new music and let you eavesdrop on the kinds of conversations that happen among artists at late-night diners after gigs, Country Fried Rock is for you. If your job is to make your radio station sound interesting, or if you’re just a fan of great music, come on in. You can smell the soul in the air as the door closes behind you and your mouth begins to water. Everything is better when it’s country fried, right?

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 The Delta Saints #1316 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 30:47

The Delta Saints hail from Nashville, not the Delta, but their "New Orleans Rock and Roll" heats up dance floors, even in the notoriously non-dancing Music City. After two self-funded EPs, the band turned to crowdfunding to finance a full-scale, cohesive album with the luxury of several days in the studio to complete Death Letter Jubilee. Since the release, The Delta Saints have had two extensive tours in Europe to promote the album as well as scores of US dates. The band tours constantly, playing fun, dance-filled shows for exuberant fans. Liner Notes The Delta Saints Death Letter Jubilee John Lee Hooker "Boom Boom" John Lee Hooker - Boom Boom 80 Essential Tracks The Black Cadillacs All Them Witches My Morning Jacket For A Decade Of Sin Dirty Guv'nahs "New Years Day" Demo from the Cabin Sessions EP, available from the band Here's their latest album, Somewhere Beneath These Southern Skies Video Podcast

 Hymn For Her #1315 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 28:42

Hymn For Her left their vintage 1961 Bambi Airstream in dry dock and headed to Detroit. This transition also appears in the rock sound on their new album, Lucy and Wayne's Smokin' Flames, which resembles their live performance more than their previous album may have indicated. This family duo travels with their young daughter, who can be found rocking out on stage with her parents or asleep in the kick drum case. Following a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign, Hymn For Her raised funds to promote the record, bottle a custom banana hot sauce, and put out a limited vinyl release. If you get a chance to see Hymn For Her live, you should not miss their show. Buy Hymn For Her Presents Lucy & Wayne's Smokin' Flames HERE on Amazon and HERE on iTunes. Liner Notes Hymn For Her Lucy & Wayne's Smokin Flames [Explicit] Lucy & Wayne's Smokin' Flames Hot Sauce is currently available from them at shows. Johnny Lowebow is the cigarbox guitar maker from Memphis who gave them their first (cursed?) cigarbox guitar. He is also an underground legend in the handmade instrument world. Homeward Bound: A Loving Tribute to John-Alex Mason The White Stripes AutoRip (Vinyl with automatic mp3 download) The White Stripes Alias Punch, the band of the hot sauce guys, only in the online version of this program A New Shade Of Blue MPE Band The previous folk trio with whom Lucy & Wayne toured for many years Gold Please scroll down below the video to find the podcast, which you may download for free, or subscribe to it on iTunes. Video

 Adam Klein & The Wild Fires #1314 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 29:54

Adam Klein & The Wild Fires latest album, Sky Blue DeVille, travels further down the rock road for the songwriter, as each record meanders more in that direction. Klein's music ranges well beyond his native Athens, Georgia, though--in fact, his last record was written and recorded in Mali.  The former Peace Corps volunteer has returned to Mali several times to maintain his friendships and connection to the nation, and the album from his last trip there, Dugu Wolo--just before the tensions with Islamist extremists escalated to the devastating level they have--will see wider release when the accompanying documentary is released.  Sky Blue DeVille is a full-fledged rock record.  In true Athens fashion, Klein has called upon friends in music over the years to contribute their talents to his projects, ranging from Randall Bramblett to David Blackmon to John Neff--keeping the Athens music circles intersecting. Buy Sky Blue DeVille HERE on Amazon and HERE on iTunes. Liner Notes Adam Klein & The Wild Fires "Sky Blue DeVille," "Goodnight Nobody," "Where Our Love Is" Sky Blue DeVille You should definitely check out Adam Klein's previous album from Mali, that was only in limited release, Dugu Wolo.  I absolutely love this album. Randall Bramblett "Roll" His new album, Bright Spots, will be released on May 14, 2014. Here is the CD pre-order for Bright Spots or here for Bright Spots on vinyl Bright Spots. Drivin N Cryin "Scarred But Smarter" One of the best rock songs ever written. Scarred But Smarter Kenney Blackmon String Band "Yew Piney" The Singing Tree Blackmon is most known for his fiddle contributions for Jerry Reed, Widespread Panic, and R.E.M. The KBSB album is really interesting--his wife, Noel Blackmon, culled lost songs from field recording sheet music and books, several of which are believed to be the first modern recordings of these songs (explanation adapted from album notes). They are dynamic live. After breaking his neck in a freak frisbee accident, it's pretty incredible to see him jam. Deer Tick "Main Street" available on AutoRip Vinyl here Divine Providence. (AutoRip means you get an automatic mp3 album download and the vinyl is shipped to you right away.) Deer Tick is headlining the Twilight Americana Festival in Athens this month.

 The Howlin’ Brothers #1313 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 19:23

I met The Howlin' Brothers in the parking lot at the Family Wash in East Nashville during Americana Music Festival in 2012. I had seen them a couple of times at the Station Inn, and mistakenly thought they were from North Carolina. As we chatted in the parking lot, Ian Craft told me that they had just finished recording a new album that would be released in the Spring of 2013. Happily for The Howlin' Brothers, their new album, Howl, had some additional support as the band was signed to Brendan Benson's label, Readymade Records. With Benson's direction in the studio and his support for their vision with their music, The Howlin' Brothers have expanded the sounds they bring to their old time music, but have not strayed from who they are. The band still plays Layla's Bluegrass Inn and the Station Inn regularly, but they are now able to be on the road more and are a treat to see perform live. When you see them, ask them to dance. Buy Howl from The Howlin' Brothers digitally HERE on Amazon or HERE on iTunes. Listen to the entire radio program right here. The free podcast can be downloaded at the bottom of this page. Liner Notes Howl by The Howlin' Brothers Brendan Benson "What I'm Looking For" The Alternative to Love Benson's label, Readymade Records, wisely signed the band. Joshua Black Wilkins "Woman Like This" Wilkins has taken the photographs for several of our recent album covers, including Sarah Gayle Meech. Old Crow Medicine Show Carry Me Back "Steppin' Out" Willie Dixon "Chicago Allstars Boogie" Young Hines Give Me My Change "Just Say No" Wood & Wire "Mexico" Willy Mason "Restless Fugitive" Tony Rice Muleskinner Blues "Muleskinner Blues" Video Ad

 Sarah Gayle Meech #1312 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 21:00

Sarah Gayle Meech looks like a nouveaux rockabilly woman, but her music is straight up traditional country. Her debut album, One Good Thing, shares Meech's original tunes with an amazing backing band and stellar studio musicians. Just try not to dance while you listen. Don't let the A-list players distract you, though, because Meech's live show brings the energy that fills the gap in instrumentation changes from recorded versus live. Buy One Good Thing from Sarah Gayle Meech HERE ON AMAZON or HERE ON iTUNES. You can download the free podcast at the bottom of this page. Please note that this is the unedited version of the show, so some of the lyrics may not be appropriate for all audiences. Liner Notes Sarah Gayle Meech One Good Thing "One Good Thing," "No Angel," "Sad and Lonely" The .357 String Band Lightning From The North "Lightning from the North" Compadre band. Bob Wayne Till the Wheels Fall Off "All My Friends" The lyrics reference cocaine, heroin & lsd use. I left the lyrics intact to contrast the traditional country music in this song with the surprisingly straightforward lyrics about hard drug use. People love or hate Bob Wayne, but he seems to be pretty honest about the lives a lot of people live, without judging them. I don't know if it's a persona or character or real, but this song works. Buck Owens The Instrumental Hits "Buckaroo"  Meech plays regularly at Layla's Bluegrass Inn and Robert's Western World on Broadway, mixing her original tunes with Buck Owens and Loretta Lynn covers. Hank III Rebel Within "Gettin' Drunk and Falling Down" I've always avoided listening to any of Hank III's music because he can't seem to let the rebel flag go away. I'm a lifelong Southerner, and I don't care about the "Heritage Not Hate" argument because it DOES represent hate. Move on, Shelton. Your music is sometimes really great. Quit being your own caricature. Get rid of the stupid stars and bars.  That said, his long-time player and producer, Andy Gibson, is the thread connecting many of these bands. Bobby Bare 16 Biggest Hits "Numbers"  Grant Johnson is currently on tour as Bare's lead guitar player.  He has also been heard on this radio show in the Derek Hoke program. Scott Chism and the Better Half Long Haul Steady "Jet N Dewdrop's Farm"  I chose this one because of the Chris Scruggs connection. Matt Woods (Country Fried Rock alum) The Matt Woods Manifesto "Beating Down My Door" One of the best songwriters I know.  Woods was one of the other bands on the lineup in Illinois in 2013. Hillbilly Casino Tennessee Stomp [Explicit] "The Ballad of Psycho Steve" (ft Dale Watson) On Watson's upcoming EP, Hillbilly Casino is his backing abnd and Meech does backing vocals and a duet. I chose this song for the connection to the rest of this album, and the BR 549 Chris Scruggs connections, and Geoff Firebaugh, who co-wrote this tune. The G-ddamn Gallows Seven Devils [Explicit] "7 Devils" Another compadre band. Video Ad

 Bex Marshall #1311 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 21:22

Bex Marshall's latest album, House of Mercy, reflects both the songs on this record, and the actual name of her home-recording studio-record label-life. She is a noted slide guitar player, who also loves the resonator (dobro) and banjo, and manages to bring in those sounds to a cohesive, roots rock record.  I am always interested when a British musician melds what we think of as American sounds into music that becomes its own, rather than being imitative.  Marshall's songs and production combine for a rollicking  album, and her reflection on what led to it--heard in this week's radio program--is worthwhile for anyone seeking a lifetime playing music, or fans who like it real. Click HERE to listen and buy this record, or here to buy on iTunes. Radio Show Liner Notes Bex Marshall House of Mercy House of Mercy is not just the title track and album, it's also the name of the house where Bex and Barry live, their record label and recording studio, radio station and more.  Marshall lives a life of music. I was not able to find a legal mp3 to purchase of Bex's "Uncle David's" band, The Marauders' minor hit, "That's What I Want." I also was not able to confirm whether "Uncle David" is known as "Charlie Harper" of the UK Subs or not. If you have more information, please clarify! I think this is a video for the correct band. I did find a song on a garage rock compilation by a band of the same name, but I cannot confirm if it's the same people or not. It's a pretty cool tune, though, and a fantastic compilation. Storm in the Garage on Amazon Brigitte de Meyer Rose Of Jericho on Amazon Joan Armatrading Greatest Hits on Amazon One of the best British blues vocalists around. I used to listen to "Drop the Pilot" on WRAS Album 88 all the time. Hayseed Dixie Nicotine and Alcohol on Amazon Hayseed Dixie are not just the beloved bluegrass covers of AC/DC tunes or tributes to hillbilly love, they are also noted players and the sons of Don Reno, of Reno and Smiley. Stevie Ray Vaughn live The Essential Stevie Ray Vaughan And Double Trouble on Amazon doing "Superstition."  A great example of amazing blues working well with other styles of music. Israel Nash Gripka Barn Doors and Concrete Floors on Amazon Video Ad // //

 Samantha Harlow #1310 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 30:18

Samantha Harlow's debut full-length record, Love Letters, brought together her songs with a stellar Nashville team, including co-producer, Kenny Vaughn. While studio and stage notables like Jen Gunderman, John McTigue, Mike Shannon, Wes Burkhart, Simon Roper and background vocals from Derek Hoke fill the sounds, Harlow's songs maintain their simple, sad essence. Love Letters is a bit melancholy lyrically, yet it steers clear of tear-in-my-beer tunes or man-hating anthems. The production separates this record from singer-songwriter folk, but it easily falls back into a solo or trio for live interpretations of the songs. Look for Harlow to tour more throughout the summer and expand her reach, as her songs and performances develop and grow. Liner Notes Samantha Harlow Amazon: Love Letters Harlow's debut record follows up two independent EP's.  Co-produced with Kenny Vaughn, and backing vocals from Country Fried Rock alum, Derek Hoke.   iTunes: Love Letters Gillian Welch Amazon: Revival One of Harlow's "dream tours" to support or collaborate.  iTunes: Revival Roger Miller Amazon: All Time Greatest Hits An inspiration to many songwriters!  iTunes: All Time Greatest Hits Julie Lee Amazon: East Nashville Christmas Harlow would like to tour with her friend, Julie Lee.  I chose this tune with Mike Farris because it was a nice blend of their voices on a traditional tune I happen to like.   iTunes: An East Nashville Christmas Booker T. and the MG's Amazon: Green Onions and Other Hits  Harlow has a great story about interviewing the Stax Records house band bass player, who played on this specific recording of this song.  iTunes: The Best of Booker T. and the MGs (Remastered) Joe Fletcher and the Wrong Reasons Amazon: White Lighter Harlow has been on the road with Fletcher in the past.  iTunes: White Lighter Dale Watson Amazon: One More Once More - Dale Watson's Honky Tonk Swing Album Great dream line-up to open or sing with him! iTunes: Carryin' On Video Ad // //

 Sam Doores #1309 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 21:24

Sam Doores collaborates in recording and performing, making creative and practical decisions that allow his songs to reach as many audiences as possible. Whether Doores is playing solo, with his band, in a duo setting with a stompbox, or as part of Hurray for the Riff Raff, the versatile musician and songwriter is adding more to his professional toolbox. Doores' influences range from Hank Williams and Woody Guthrie, to knowledge by necessity with a weekly four-hour gig just off Bourbon Street in New Orleans--fusing the music of Allen Toussaint, old R&B, swamp pop, and traditional country with Irish barroom tunes. Such a diverse setlist allowed him to develop his own skills and sounds as he crafted and improved his own songwriting. Liner Notes Sam Doores + Riley Downing and the Tumbleweeds Holy Cross Blues   ON ITUNES Holy Cross Blues - Sam Doores, Riley Downing & The Tumbleweeds  This record is an interesting collaboration between the two songwriters, like a recorded song swap. Hurray for the Riff Raff Look Out Mama  ON ITUNES Look Out Mama - Hurray for the Riff Raff  Doores often opens for and/or plays with HFTRR, another fantastic New Orleans band. The Pogues If I Should Fall From Grace With God [Expanded] (US Version)  ON ITUNES The Pogues  Doores tells a funny story about playing a weekly four-hour gig in an Irish pub just off Bourbon Street in New Orleans--and his year spent in Ireland. Hayes Carll Kmag Yoyo (& Other American Stories) [+Digital Booklet]  ON ITUNES Hayes Carll  One of Doores' favorite persons with whom to tour. Alabama Shakes Boys & Girls  ON ITUNES Alabama Shakes  Doores has been on the road with the Alabama Shakes, as well as recorded at the Bomb Shelter. Morgan O'Kane Pendulum   ON ITUNES Morgan O'Kane  Label-mate and friend, and good co-touring partner. Spirit Family Reunion I Want to Be Relieved   ON ITUNES Spirit Family Reunion  A band you should try to catch live. Andrew Combs Worried Man  ON ITUNES Andrew Combs  Another friend and tour partner. Video Ad // //

 Rachel Brooke #1308 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 20:46

Rachel Brooke's visual aesthetic reflects her musical vision. The songwriter from Michigan views her projects conceptually, from the presentation to the sound. A faded photograph in a diner led to the theme for her most recent release, A Killer's Dream.  While stretching across the country spectrum, Brooke's songwriting is generally dark, bubbling up from her more challenging emotions and processed through her lyrics.  Her bubbly giggle and friendly demeanor belie the noir within her songs. Listen to the Entire Radio Program Liner Notes Rachel Brooke A Killer's Dream Lonesome Wyatt A Bitter Harvest Bessie SmithThe Complete Recordings Pokey LaFarge Riverboat Soul//

 Chicago Farmer #1307 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 25:30

Chicago Farmer plays Mid-Western folk music celebrating the work ethic and community support of the small towns dotting the flatlands. As the musical persona of Cody Diekhoff, his roots in a tiny town form a strong foundation for the art he continues to create as he has moved back and forth across Illinois, to Chicago and back, repeatedly--moving 12 times in 10 years! "Backenforth" consequently, is the mythical town that holds together the songs in his current record, Backenforth, IL. He was not escaping his small town early on, as much as he was being launched into the wider world with all 25 of the residents behind him. Relocating inspires Chicago Farmer to write, hence his frequent moving as he developed his songwriting and performing. After a decade as a folk musician playing the upper Mid-West circuit, his new album is the one that he hopes will bring his songs to wider audiences. With lyrics that play well to a barroom singalong, yet have a depth of reflection on the regular life of hard-working people that can easily be overlooked, Chicago Farmer's music focuses on accessible folk songs. With influences ranging from Hank Williams to Great American Taxi, Chicago Farmer has logged thousands of miles and hours honing his songs. For Backenforth, IL, he gathered his Hired Hands band, and recorded in affordable sessions, one or two songs at a time, then he would hit the road to earn some money, return and record another song or two, and repeat until the album was finished. For the first decade as a musician, Chicago Farmer was a full DIY solo venture, but he has recently added both management and a booking agent, freeing him up to play and write. One of the biggest advantages to finding management for him, was knowing that someone else with knowledge of the business always "has his back." Free song download here. Liner Notes Chicago Farmer Backenforth, Il Cory Chisel Old Believers Great American Taxi Reckless Habits Justin Townes Earle Nothing's Gonna Change the Way You Feel About Me Now Devil Makes 3 Do Wrong Right Hank Williams Gospel Keepsakes John Prine Bruised Orange Backyard Tire Fire Good To Be Video Ad

 Mary Gauthier #1306 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 29:44

Mary Gauthier played open mics, songwriters' stages, clubs, and theatres, but never recorded a live record before. The Louisiana native describes herself as a Southern folksinger, which led to "brand confusion" when she was still based in Boston.  Despite accolades from the industry, cuts by contemporary country stars, and the respect of other songwriters, she did not face the ultimate "game on" of creating a live album. When Gauthier finally decided that it was time to record live, she went to a musicians and artists retreat in Texas with a world-class recording environment and made Live at Blue Rock. Making a live record, though, is likely not Gauthier's bravest deed. That moment is probably reserved for the time she finished her first song, because until then Gauthier hid behind substance abuse and addiction in the kitchens of her restaurants, not even facing her admiring patrons at their tables. When she finally emerged from her own darkness--in a very public arrest for drunk driving on the opening night of her second restaurant location--Gauthier found the courage to complete a song, face the audiences, and cram those emotions into lyrics that kick you in the gut. Gauthier's lyrics and depth in songwriting contrast with her personable, accessible, yet still "cool kid" demeanor. In conversation, she is more like the insider who tells you not to grab coffee at ABC because it's better down the street at XYZ--then goes with you for a cup and to make sure you find the right place. By channeling the angst and pain that she freely discusses into songs that reach their raw emotion, Gauthier maintains "regular person" status and brings people along with her into her music instead of some lofty, superior air. Liner Notes Mary Gauthier Live At Blue Rock  Gauthier covers several of Fred Eaglesmith's songs in this set.  We chose a few for which she is known that she wrote or co-wrote. Steve Earle Music From And Inspired By The Motion Picture Dead Man Walking "Ellis Unit One"  From our conversation about Earle's activism against the death penalty.  I could have chosen Gauthier's song, "Karla Faye" as well, but I did not want the program to be too depressing. Fred Eaglesmith 6 Volts  I chose Eaglesmith's version of one of his songs that Gauthier covers, "Cigarette Machine." Woody Guthrie Woody At 100: The Woody Guthrie Centennial Collection "The Jolly Banker" Specifically because of our conversation about the role of the songwriter in commenting about society.  This collection just won a Grammy in 2013. Video Ad

 Old Man Luedecke #1305 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 26:56

Old Man Luedecke may be new to US audiences, but the Canadian folk songwriter is well-known and lauded north of the border.  As his photo indicates, he is not old, but the music that captures his interest and influences his writing is old.  Luedecke references traditional music from the Smithsonian Folkways series, like the Red Clay Ramblers, but sounds more like a folked-out Paul Simon to me.  (Interestingly, Simon is never referenced, but I cannot get the vocal comparison out of my ears with this record.) Despite obscure literary references, Tender is the Night, is solidly present.  Although F. Scott Fitzgerald or even Jackson Browne may come to mind, Luedecke has never read that book nor has he heard to catchy tune of the same name--although his mandolin player sings it to him often.  (Luedecke says he is referencing Melville's Billy Budd who is referencing Keats and a reflection on Thomas Payne's "Rights of Man.")  Despite the heavy influences, the music is simple and accessible--producer, Tim O'Brien, gently decorated Luedecke's songs. While much more folk-y than most of the music we cover, the connection to the history of folk music and a modern reflection of it, tie  these songs to the rest of the catalog.  Luedecke's use of humor and the absurd, Biblical topics and modern life, demonstrate how traditional lyrical subjects continue to engage listeners. Liner Notes Old Man Luedecke Tender Is The Night Tim O'Brien Del Barber Headwaters Ramblin' Jack Elliott Sowing The Seeds - The 10th Anniversary "Don't Look Twice" Sam Cooke One Night Stand - Sam Cooke Live At The Harlem Square Club, 1963 Luedecke tells a great tale of buying a Carter Family album on the same day as this one--and realizing that he could more easily imitate the Carters than Cooke. Barbary Ghosts The Ghost of the William Grey Roger Miller Townes van Zandt Red Clay Ramblers Classic Old-Time Music from Smithsonian Folkways Video Ad

 Rich Mahan #1304 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 28:55

Rich Mahan blames Bobby Bare for his slightly naughty, humorous songs, but really, he just wants you to have fun and enjoy the music.  Mahan's debut solo record, Blame Bobby Bare, creates an auditory party--even if it's just a quick escape from your workday and stresses of life by cranking up the music.  Go ahead and dance around the office if you want. Mahan's own musical journey began with a middle school talent show, leading him to play guitar with bands ranging from jamband to Texas rock, and find a way to be in the music field in some way at all times.  The deconstruction of smaller imprints of major labels sent him from Los Angeles to Nashville, where Mahan found other creative communities forging their own DIY path apart from the current music mold. This independent trajectory, and intense pool of exemplary players and persons in the music industry, made Mahan's album possible.  From the analog recording and mixing choices, to the top-notch musicians who joined the project, Blame Bobby Bare represents not just where Mahan is now, but how his history has led him to this day--fun, slightly inappropriate, but something most people can relate to and enjoy--even if your mother never found...you know...in your room! Liner Notes Rich Mahan Blame Bobby Bare [Explicit]  From his days of contributing songs to Dr. Demento to now, Mahan's songs are fun, embracing some of life's bad decisions with gusto.  Please note that there are drug references in many of these songs. Shurman Still Waiting For The Sunset  A record from the Country Fried Rock alums, now out of Texas.  When they were all in Los Angeles, Rich Mahan was part of the band and contributed to several songs even when he was no longer in the band. Rainbow The Best Of Rainbow  Great big rock and roll. Bobby Bare Bobby Bare Sings Lullabys, Legends And Lies (And More) "Dropkick Me Jesus" This was a tough decision, as I really wanted to select one of the songs written by Shel Silverstein, "Qualudes Again," but there wasn't enough time. The Standells The Very Best Of The Standells "Dirty Water" I chose the original album version instead of the spruced up version you occasionally hear on classic rock radio. The Who Quadrophenia [Explicit]  "The Real Me" The most serious song in this week's radio show, but the emotion contrasts nicely with all the silly, fun, party music of the rest of the show. Boo Ray Bad News Travels Fast  This is a record from a Country Fried Rock alum, one that really should be part of a roots music collection. NOTE:  There are references to drug use in the 1960's and 1970's  in this conversation and some of these songs, specifically, a bit about Jimi Hendrix using drugs before the Monterey Pop Festival and by the musicians in The Last Waltz.  Some of the song lyrics also reference drugs, as evidenced by their titles. Video

 Henry Wagons #1303 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 30:05

Henry Wagons must have watched a few too many Las Vegas television specials growing up. How else would the Australian songwriter developed a fascination with the showmanship of Tom Jones and Elvis? Add to the mix (literally) Wagons' obsession with vintage reverb sounds like the songs of Lee Hazelwood and Nancy Sinatra, and you end up with a record full of noir duets that is both retro and ethereal--without becoming too trippy. Henry Wagons' band, Wagons, reached Australian success, and roots music first-adopters may have heard either Wagons' tune "Willie Nelson" or "I Blew It." His album of duets with a variety of beautiful voices, Expecting Company, is his first with a wide-scale American release. Sonicly, this record maintains the over-the-top vibe of much of his songwriting, but the contrast with gorgeous singing from Jenn Grant, Sophia Brous, and Alison Mosshart (among others) brings this record to a new plane. Wagons' theatrics on stage and expansive recordings mirror his personality, as well. He is quite entertaining to interview, regaling tales of his cooking skills, his vision for music videos (some of which are extremely conceptual), and his love for ELO, the Electric Light Orchestra. While some people might tell these tales on themselves for the amusement alone, Wagons manages to share his genuine passion for these over-the-top antics, reflecting his love for them, not sarcasm, snark, nor superiority. Henry Wagons repeatedly mentions how thankful and grateful he is for the success he has had, in spite of his drive to fulfill his "egomaniacal vision." Just another self-deprecating line from Wagons himself! Liner Notes Henry Wagons "Expecting Company?" "I'm In Love with Mary Magdalene," "Give Things a Chance," "Marylou Two" Van Halen Diver Down "Big Bad Bill (Is Sweet William Now)" Elvis Presley Elvis: The '68 Comeback Special (Three-Disc Deluxe Edition) "Hurt" Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazelwood Nancy & Lee 3 "Barricades and Brickwalls" Wagons Rumble, Shake And Tumble "I Blew It" The Beatles Please Please Me "Love Me Do" Those Darlins Screws Get Loose "Screws Get Loose" Justin Townes Earle The Good Life "The Good Life" Video Ad Check out some live video of Henry Wagons as a trio in Atlanta recently, as captured by Atlanta Music Examiner:

 Ronnie Fauss #1302 | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 25:58

Ronnie Fauss is not ready to give up his regular life for music just yet, but the Texas songwriter continues to release new material frequently.  After several self-released EP's, Normaltown Records (an imprint of New West Records) made it possible for Fauss to record his debut full-length album, I Am The Man You Know I'm Not.  The cryptic title belies the straightforward folk songs, and the excellent players brought in for the recording expand the sound without overwhelming its simplicity. Fauss's singing voice is gravelly and reminiscent of punk rock crooners, so I was surprised by his soft-spoken voice on the telephone.  He is a deliberate person, answering questions carefully and completely.  He is not winging it.  This measured, precise approach to our conversation reflects his method of getting his music out to listeners; he looks at what can be reasonably accomplished, how to make it fun, and plans specifically to achieve his modest goals. For I Am the Man You Know I'm Not, Fauss brought some other layers to his project, including both PR and radio promotions partners.  These teammates helped bring his music to the attention of key radio programmers, bloggers, and music writers who might not otherwise have known of his music.  With the sheer volume of recorded music today, most media outlets--even small "new media" portals--rely on their trusted gatekeepers to help them filter the content.  For Fauss, this expansion team from his former all-DIY plan made a huge difference in the attention his album garnered. Liner Notes Ronnie Fauss I Am The Man You Know I'm Not  "I Don't See You," "Pistols in the Air," "The Last"  Slobberbone Straight Outta Boone County "Dark As A Dungeon"  Lilly Hiatt Let Down "Championship Fighter"  Gram Parsons The Complete Reprise Sessions  "Sin City"  Todd Snider East Nashville Skyline "Nashville"  The Wayward Sons "Gaslight" Guy Clark Old No. 1 "Rita Ballou" Willie Nelson Heroes "Roll Me Up and Smoke Me" (with Snoop Dogg and Kris Kristofferson) Video Keeping the Lights On // //

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