“South of the Border”: The Sexual Politics of Autry and Sinatra
I was listening to a Gene Autry record yesterday--by the way, if you don’t own any Autry recordings you should get your hands on some. I know I had heard him sing “South of the Border” (recorded in 1939) at some point, but I hadn’t thought too much
The Holy Trinity of John Hartford
John Hartford is one of the most unique and creative artists in American music history. Frankly, I consider a distaste for John Hartford bordering on a character flaw. Among other things, I look at the venerable fiddler, banjoist, and songwriter as a unifying force for traditional music fans of differing
Ben Hall - Ben Hall!
Every Monday morning, I post a review on an attention-grabbing album submitted via ReviewShine, and this week I've had the privilege to review Ben Hall's debut album, Ben Hall!.
Guitarist Ben Hall is a native of Okolona, Mississippi. His Merle-Travis-style of guitar playing has won many
Jimmie Rodgers, the Blue Yodel, and a Young America
I recently read Nick Tosches’s Country: The Twisted Roots of Rock 'n' Roll (New York: Da Capo, 1984), and his great work inspired me to revisit the recordings of Jimmie Rodgers. I was intrigued with the mysteries I found buried in those old recordings. I know that
The great untold story of the New Orleans gospel genius Raymond Myles
Raymond Myles was like a comet shooting across the sky. He was here one minute: brilliant, incandescent and unmistakably unique. And then, just as quickly, he was gone.
A TASTE OF HEAVEN: The Heartbreak Life of Raymond Myles, Gospel Genius of New Orleans
takes us on Raymond's dramatic
Review of Buddy Miller's Majestic Silver Strings
I was excited awhile back to read on No Depression that Buddy Miller was making an album with the great jazz guitarist Bill Frisell. Majestic Silver Springs, released this month, also features guitarists Marc Ribot and Greg Leisz and vocals by a number of artists, including Patty Griffin, Julie Miller,