ALBUM REVIEW: Writin’, Singin’, Fiddlin’, and ‘Rattlin’ Bones’ with Bronwyn
When the needle drops on Bronwyn’s latest record, Rattlin’ Bones, one thing that hasn’t changed and is quickly evident is the linchpin of her music: the incendiary fiddle playing, which is on full display straight through from the album’s opener (and lead single), “Sticks and Stones,” to
THE READING ROOM: Ashley Khan’s ‘Days of Miracle and Wonder: Paul Simon and the Trials and Triumphs of Graceland’
Forty years ago, on August 25, 1986, Paul Simon released his seminal album, Graceland. On it, Simon collaborated with a number of South African musicians, including Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Vusi Kumalo, Bakithi Kumalo, and Ray Chikapa Phiri, among many others. As music historian Ashley Khan (A Love Supreme) points out
ALBUM REVIEW: Phoebe Bridgers Makes Her Razor-Sharp Return With 'Lost Weekend'
Waiting six years between records when you’re at the height of your powers might be like shooting yourself in the foot, but not for Phoebe Bridgers, whose cultural presence somehow looms even larger since the release of Punisher all the way back in 2020. This is, in large part,
THROUGH THE LENS: Gerry Milnes & The State of Traditional Music In West Virginia
While West Virginia flies under the radar for most people for most things, it is known around the world for its traditional roots music. This week’s column highlights Gerry Milnes, the 2026 recipient of the National Endowment of the Arts Bess Lomax Hawes National Heritage Fellowship. Established in 2000,
BONUS TRACKS: Dolly Parton's AMERICANAFEST Award, New Sierra Ferrell Track, Bandcamp Friday, and More Roots Music News
The Americana Music Association announced yesterday that Dolly Parton will be awarded with the Lifetime Achievement Award during the 2026 Americana Honors & Awards. The ceremony will take place at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville during this year's AMERICANAFEST and Parton will accept the honor via video.
Sierra
“That’s What Hope is For” —Steve Earle, Songwriting, and Music that Changes the World
Sometimes, Steve Earle worries people think he’s stopped writing songs.
At 71, Earle’s one of the most prolific writers alive today — best known for songs like his first hit, “Guitar Town,” his generational bootlegging outlaw ballad, “Copperhead Road,” and the traditional Irish music influenced “Galway Girl.” But Earle’