Chris Smither - Keeping Acoustic Blues Alive

 I don’t have the slightest idea what drew me to Chris Smither or what caused me to give him a listen, but it was a wise choice. There just aren’t many people who do what he does, and that’s refreshing. So what does he do? He’s a finger style guitarist, (think Mississippi John Hurt or Lightnin’ Hopkins), and that’s worth listening to, but he also is a brilliant songwriter, and interpreter.

Bonnie Raitt recorded Smither’s “Love Me Like A Man” which has become one of her better known songs. He almost exclusively plays solo, accompanied by his own guitar and a “foot box” that serves that keeps the beat.

While other blues guitarist wonder too far into the land of the endless electric guitar solo, Smither’s playing serves to complement each song. Yet his playing is melodic and never self indulgent. There is no better example of his interpretive skills as his cover of Roly Sally’s “Killing The Blues.” Artists has covered the song multiple times, including John Prine, Alison Krauss and Robert Plant, and others. Smither’s version is superior, taken at a meditative tempo and a vocal that captures the melancholy lyrics. It’s a masterwork.

He has recorded for several labels and now that musicians have returned to touring; he is back on the road. Chris Smither has been recording and touring for over fifty years and in the process has written several songs that are brilliant examples of his unique qriting and playing style. Check out “Up On The Lowdown,” and “leave the Light On” among others.

Smither is worth discovering and a reminder that ofttimes the best music is rarely found on the airwaves but the clubs and small venues across the country.

 

Michael McDermott - "Willow Springs" (EXPLICIT)

                 

                

I admit it. I forgot about Michael McDermott. Since tending bar in the early 90s allowed me the luxury of playing whatever I wanted on the house stereo system, I kept McDermott’s debut release 620 Weed Street in heavy rotation. It was great to see a local artist sign a major label deal and receive airplay on WXRT. He soon appeared on MTV which played the video for his first single "A Wall I Must Climb.”

He earned his stripes in the Irish taverns and pubs in the Chicago area while he began writing songs. Influenced by local legend the late John Prine, among others he soon hit the big time and signed with Giant records.

Soon the ridiculous comparisons followed, the “new Springsteen” among others, as expectations exceeded reality. Subsequent releases, though critically hailed, failed to live up to the hype, and years of well-documented substance abuse dominated his once promising career. But despite personal issues, the music never stopped as the major label releases morphed into independent releases.

But rarely has a performer made such an impressive return to form. McDermott has been sober since 2014 and has released several stellar recordings in the last five years. He moved back to the south suburbs with wife Heather and his artistic rebirth has not gone unnoticed. The career upturn began with 2016’s Willow Springs, which reached #1 on the European Americana chart. Showered with critical accolades, the prolific songwriter released the follow up, Out From Under in 2018. Less than a year later Orphans was released, consisting of songs left off Willow Springs and Out From Under and older recordings. In June 2020, McDermott continued his run of great recordings with What in the World.

Since it appears live music venues are booking again, take the opportunity to see McDermott live. You won’t forget him.

Chicago's South Side Roots Revival

                                  

                                 

                   

                    

The South side of Chicago has never been a great place to play original music. On any given weekend live music venues are filled with cover bands. Give the folks what they want to hear. But in recent years things have changed as several roots based bands have recently emerged with recordings of original songs. Say hello to the new roots scene and its most prominent artists: South City Revival, The Railway Gamblers, Pat Egan and the Heavy Hearts, and the Liam Durkin Band.

South City Revival is comprised of Joe Pacelli (vocals, guitar), John Quinn (lead guitar, vocals), Mike Fitzgerald (bass), José “Pino" Perez on drums, and Brendan Linnane (lead guitar, pedal steel). They recently released their first full length CD “Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire.” Their lives shows have earned a devoted following. If you like your country with a kick, check ‘em out.

https://www.southcityrevival.com/

The Railway Gamblers, based in Evergreen Park, IL are led by prolific singer/songwriter Brendan Folliard (guitar, piano, harmonica, lead vocals), who alongside Matt Fricks (lead guitar), Sean Wilmsen (drums), and Dan Kane (bass), just released their fifth recording. Their self-described “Cosmic Americana” style of homegrown music has been attracting fans for several years. 

https://railwaygamblers.com/home

If you like your music with the volume turned up, look no further than Pat Egan and the Heavy Hearts.“Folk rock with 70s guitar swagger,” according to their Facebook page. Check out their 2019 release Love and Disruption." According to their Facebook page their recording was interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Hopefully things will resume and a new release will follow soon.

Liam Durkin is a familiar performer to those who frequent Irish pubs on the south side of town. His powerful vocals and impressive guitar work is evident at his live performances. The Liam Durkin Band just released “Behind the Wheel,” and he is currently supporting its release with a busy touring schedule.

http://www.liamdurkin.com/home.html

It appears the restrictions placed on live music venues are finally easing. Check out these bands and show some support for these bands.

Tom Russell Band - Poor Man's Dream (1989)

                                                                

                     

 Rose Records was a record store on Wabash Avenue in downtown Chicago. There were several floors of recordings separated by genre. I always headed for one of the upper floors where the folk and country records were located. It was a music lover’s paradise. On one particular day, in the early 90s, I was reading the cover notes of Tom Russell's Poor Man’s Dream. I had not heard of Russell, but something told me to take a chance. It was a wise choice.

Tom Russell has produced several great albums over the course of his career, but I have chosen to write about Poor Man’s Dream since it was my introduction to his music. Released in 1990, it contains several of his best songs. “Blue Wing” co-written with Dave Alvin has become one of his standards. “Gallo Del Cielo,” a song that got the attention of Robert Hunter, Grateful Dead songwriter. The heartbroken inhabitants of “Spanish Burgundy.” This is a songwriter at the top of his game. 

Recorded in Norway where Russell frequently tours it features the guitar work of Andrew Hardin who subsequently toured with Russell for years as a duo. This album also features “Outbound Plane” which Russell wrote with Nanci Griffith and was a hit on country radio as performed by Suzy Bogguss.

Russell has built a successful career and has avoided the Nashville scene, or any other scene. He writes well-crafted intelligent songs detailing the American experience and has steadily forged a path of success by turning out great songs. He is also one of those rare artists who hasn’t made a poor record, and some are landmarks of the Americana music scene. The Man From God Knows Where explores the roots of his Irish and Nordic family history.  

In the pantheon of Americans music, Tom Russell is one pillar of artistic ingenuity. Check him out.

 

 

James McCandless - A Forgotten Chicago Treasure

                                                    

Chicago has had its share of accomplished singer/songwriters, most notably Michael Smith, Steve Goodman, and John Prine. But another artist, just as talented, was the late James McCandless. He passed away in 2013, but his music still deserves a larger audience.

 I first heard McCandless around 1990, at Fitzgerald’s night club just outside of Chicago. It was their Tuesday evening open mic. I sat at the bar as various aspiring musicians wandered in with guitar cases in hand. Others huddled in a corner talking shop or tuning up to prepare for their performance.

The proceedings began as the first gentleman slowly took the stage. He looked disheveled in his baggy pants and loose sweater. Then he played some of the best songs I had ever heard. Others in attendance seemed to know him, and I quickly learned I had been listening to James McCandless, a local songwriter.
He immediately stood out by the quality of his songs and his almost classical finger style guitar. The first chance I got, I drove to the Old Town School of Folk Music on Armitage and bought Out West Somewhere. I went to see him every chance I got, which was usually at Fitzgerald’s. He occasionally opened for a touring artist whose songs would usually pale in comparison.

I discovered his music just as he was about to release Sea of Freedom, another collection of stellar compositions. “Lily Langtry” which I have heard called one of the best songs written about celebrity. His own family history is the subject in “Springfield.” Irish musicians John William, Martin Hayes and Jackie Moran join Julianne Macarus to round out the instrumentation.

The music of James McCandless is intelligent, insightful, and will leave you wanting more. Hopefully, more artists will cover his songs in ther future. His wonderful songs are widely available on streaming services and at jamesmccandless.com     

                                                

Best Americana Albums

 What exactly is “Americana “music? It can be argued at length, but perhaps the best way to explain it is  to give my list of favorite recordings that I consider outstanding examples of the genre. Drum roll please...

Guitar Town - Steve Earle 

This was the record that put Steve Earle on the map. It rocks and has enough twang to earn some success on the country charts. Key tracks: “Fearless Heart,” “Someday”

Trace - Son Volt 

After the break-up of Uncle Tupelo, Jay Farrar released this stunning collection with new band mates as Son Volt. This 1995 release still holds up as an example of brilliant songwriting. Key Tracks: “Windfall” “Tear Stained Eye”

Poor Man’s Dream - Tom Russell

Tom Russell has flown under the radar for most of his career. He has produced one of the most impressive catalogues of any American songwriter and is still going strong. This 1989 record is a great introduction. Key Tracks: “Eyes of Roberto Duran” “” Blue Wing"

Time (The Revelator) - Gillian Welch

This contemplative 2001 release is a masterclass of understated excellence. Accompanied, as always by partner David Rawlings, this undoubtedly the high point of her career. Key Tracks: “April 14th (Part One)” “I Dream a Highway”

The Missing Years - John Prine

This alum is all over the place, stylistically. From folkie finger picking cuts “All the Best” to the radio friendly rock oriented “Take a Look at My Heart” produced by Tom Petty bassist, Howie Epstein, this includes several great songs and remains one of Prine’s bestselling albums. Key Tracks: “Picture Show” “Everything is Cool”

Out of California - Dave Alvin

Dave Alvin is Americana. After leaving The Blasters, he began a stellar career that includes this live recording. Armed with a full band, including the late Chris Gaffney, this encompasses everything from blues to straight ahead rock-and-roll. Key Tracks: “Out in California” “Blue Boulevard"

All These Dreams - Andrew Combs

This 2105 recording has been in steady rotation since its release. This Nashville based singer/songwriter has been compared to Glenn Campbell or Mickey Newbury for his countrypolitan sound, but don’t let the easy going vibe be taken lightly. Key Tracks: “Rainy Day Song” “Nothin’ To Lose”

Southeastern - Jason Isbell

The release that made everyone stand up and take notice. The former Drive By Trucker gave up alcohol and in the process became an artist who seems incapable of releasing a poor record. Key Tracks: “Elephant” “Cover Me Up”

Gloryland - Kevin Gordon 

 Gordon’s music has inherited the swampy sound of his native New Orleans. Several cuts were inspired by growing up in the South, as with the “Colfax/Step in Time.” This 2011 recording just never grows old. Key Tracks: “Pecolia’s Star” “Trying to Get to Memphis”

Tribute to Greg "Troop" Trooper

 

Greg Trooper, one our best singer/songwriter’s passed away January 15, 2017 at 61. Armed with his trademark Martin guitar and pork-pie hat, he left behind an impressive catalogue of songs and legions of fans in Europe and here in the states. Several artists, Vince Gill and Steve Earle among them recorded his songs. In one of his last performances, he opened for John Prine and joined him onstage for Prine’s “Paradise.” 

He died on this date three years and is greatly missed. I first heard Greg Trooper in 2003. Sugar Hill released his Floating record to rave reviews. I am one of the many fortunate fans who got to know “Troop,” through a mutual friend who booked him for a few gigs. He was fond of talking music, enjoying a glass of wine, and sharing all his great songs. He was also willing to discuss his inspiration and his admiration of other artists.

A native of New Jersey, “Troop” formed The Greg Trooper Band in New Your in the 90s, which featured Larry Campbell (Bob Dylan). He eventually moved to Nashville where he continued to release critically acclaimed records. These included Noises in the Hallway, produced by E Street Band bassist, Garry Tallent, and Popular Demons, produced by Buddy Miller. After moving from label to label, he released two more stellar recordings for the Sugar Hill label. He moved back to New York in 2009 and continued to tour, write and release records. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and tragically passed away in 2017.

Like any road warrior, he had plenty of stories.I once asked him about his popularity in The Netherlands. I had noticed he toured there at least once a year. He told a story about being invited to headline a festival. He brought a band and played the prime slot on the Saturday night of the festival. “It was one of those dream gigs. We just nailed it! And ever since I’ve had a steady audience there.”

Even a casual music fan would recognize that “Troop” deserved a much wider audience. Greg Trooper’s music is still readily available on all streaming platforms. Give him a listen. RIP Troop.

Best Recordings of 2020 - Lauren Mascitti God Made a Woman

 

It takes but a few seconds into God Made a Woman to know this is country music. Acoustic guitars, piano and a soft pedal steel humming in the background frame the introduction as Lauren Mascitti’s vocal draws you in.

Too many artists try to be too many things to too many people, so It’s refreshing to hear a “new” artist embrace the sounds of classic country music.  I say “new” because she has been releasing music for several years, but this release has gained her the attention and critical accolades she deserves.

Produced by Nashville veteran songwriter Shawn Camp, this release (along with appearances on American Idol), places Mascitti as one of the most engaging and talented performers in country music.

Mascitti is not a newcomer to the Nashville scene, but this is her most fully realized recording to date. Besides being a talented singer/songwriter, Mascitti works a night shift as a nurse and financed the recording herself. Its independence guarantees its disregard for any commercial trends in popular country music. She is joined on this record by Ricky Skaggs, pedal steel master Paul Franklin, guitarists Guthrie Trapp and Camp among others.

Her connection to the songs are obvious as her emotional yet restrained vocals add just the right touch to put these stories across. The title track has gained her a wider audience since she performed it on Idol. Another standout is “I Wanna Show You My Town.” Anyone who has taken a drive to show a loved their hometown or the old neighborhood will appreciate the details of the song. “Hello Sad Eyes” is inspired by her work as a nurse. She sings every cut with feeling and never over reaches for cheap sentiment.

Above all these are great songs, tastefully produced and sung by an artist embraces that is good about country music.

Best Recordings of 2020: Lori McKenna - The Balladeer

 

Lori McKenna has progressed from singing open mics in her hometown of Stoughton, Massachusetts, to writing hits songs for Tim McGraw (“Humble and Kind”), Little Big Town (“Girl Crush”), and others. Her success has pushed her to the top of sought after songwriters. Meanwhile, she has released her own recordings that have improved with each release. In 2020 she released her best record thus far with The Balladeer (CN Records).

These songs explore the experience of middle age with reflection and appreciation of what has been and what it is still to come. She writes from a refreshing point of view, that of a middle-aged woman who lost her mother at an early age, has been married to her childhood sweetheart for thirty years, and watched her own children grow into adulthood. This is not the usual subject for the often inane topics of commercial country music. Her music falls more into the singer/songwriter genre than country. There are no wailing pedal steel guitars or fiddles on The Balladeer. Acoustic guitars and piano lead the way, allowing the songs themselves to be the center of attention. Dave Cobb, celebrated Nashville producer, has kept the arrangements simple but appropriate to each selection. McKenna has an understated, empathetic tone to her voice that perfectly suits these songs.

There are many well-known songs that have dealt with friendship, “Lean On Me,” “You’ve Got a Friend, and countless others. It’s a challenge for any writer to deal with a well-worn subject, but she adds her own spin to “Uphill.” 

“Marie” is a touching song inspired by her sister, and “When You’re My Age” is a heartbreaking look at a mother worrying about her children in an ever changing world. Her voice soars in the chorus of “Two Birds” and finds the right touch of tenderness in “The Dream.” Lori McKenna has achieved a near perfect album with The Balladeer.

Best Recordings of 2020: Ray Wylie Hubbard "Co-Starring"

 

Ray Wylie Hubbard was destined to be remembered as the author of “Redneck Mother” that appeared on the late Jerry Jeff Walker’s best-selling Viva Terlingua. But somewhere  along the way he reinvented himself by embracing the blues influenced finger picking guitar style of legends such as Sam “Lightnin’ Hopkins. He subsequently produced several impressive recordings, The Grifter’s Hymnal and The Ruffian’s Misfortune’s among them. His 2020 release Co-Starring is his first release for Big Machine Records and is one of the finest releases of 2020.

Major labels don’t sign too many 74-year-old artists, especially someone who has never had a hit record. One might assume that teaming Hubbard with several well-known artists was a scheme hatched by the record company to gain a wider audience for a deserving artist. Regardless of whose idea it was or its motivation - it works. 

Ringo Starr, Joe Walsh, Ronnie Dunn, Chris Robinson, and several more well-known musicians lend their talent. The results are impressive. This recording touches on several musical styles, including the rock and rolling “Bad Trick” featuring Ringo on drums and Joe Walsh on slide guitar. Ray Wylie will never be accused of taking himself too seriously, as evidenced by the honky-tonk classic “Drink ‘Till I See Double,” a duet with Elizabeth Cook with additional vocals by Paul Nelson. He also pays homage to a late blues legend with the gospel influenced “Mississippi John Hurt.” Ray Wylie Hubbard is included on the list of those labeled “Outlaw Country” and “Outlaw Blood” is a good example. He’s joined on the track by Ashly McBryde, another artist who possesses the ability to produce quality music and achieve commercial success.

Ray Wylie Hubbard is an Americana artist, blues, country, soul, and rock-and-roll to think about, to laugh and to dance along with. Co-Starring in a highlight of 2020.

Dion - "I Got Nothin'" featuring Van Morrison & Joe Louis Walker - Offic...

  

As we head into the last months of 2020 and look back at the year in music, several of the year’s best releases were from artists who reached their commercial peak decades ago. And while they may not sell millions of records anymore, many have put out the year’s best music. Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen produced widely heralded new music in 2020. But one artist whose career dates back to the early years of rock-and-roll made one of  2020s very best recordings. Dion DiMucci, the Wanderer himself, released Blues with Friends (KTBA) a collaboration with many top blues and rock musicians including Springsteen, Jeff Beck, Sonny Landreth, Van Morrison, Billy Gibbons (Z.Z. Top), Brian Setzer, and many more. 

When an artist releases an album full of guest stars, it’s often an attempt to add commercial appeal and move some units. It can lead to a mishmash of songs that don’t add up to a cohesive recording. That is not the case with Blues with Friends. 

Dion co-wrote every song here and the results reveal a songwriter who perhaps hasn’t gotten the credit he deserves. Produced by blues guitar slinger Joe Bonamassa, this record has been in regular rotation since its release in June. There are traditional sounding blues numbers here along with a couple of gorgeous ballads, notably “Can’t Start Over Again” with Jeff Beck adding an appropriate bluesy lead guitar. In addition, Dion who always stood out from the crowd for his gifted voice sounds fantastic in this set.

Van Morrison, an old friend, lends a vocal to “I Got Nothin’” and sounds right at home trading verses with Dion while Joe Louis Walker provides lead guitar. Paul Simon, fellow New Yorker, adds harmonies to “Song For Sam Cooke (Here in America), a definite highlight. 

Dion’s career has included his initial success as a leader of Dion and the Belmonts, dozens of solo hits in the early 1960s including “Runaround Sue,” and “The Wanderer.” After the British invasion changed the landscape of popular music, he struggled to find his place in a changing marketplace. He revived his career in 1968 with “Abraham, Martin and John.” He released several albums of singer/songwriter material but never regained commercial success. 

Recent years have seen the release of several blues based recordings, but he has reached new heights with “Blues with Friends.”

Best Recordings of 2020 - Jamie Wyatt Neon Cross

 

As 2020 mercifully staggers to an end, it’s time to decide the best releases of the last year. Marred by a global pandemic and the loss of several musical icons, including Jerry Jeff Walker, Billy Joe Shaver and John Prine, great music continued to be released by emerging artists. I listened to Jamie Wyatt’s Neon Cross (New West), constantly since its release on May 29. Never heard of her? Neither had I prior to this release. Produced by Shooter Jennings, son of Outlaw country music legend, Waylon Jennings, this is her second full length recording and it’s stunning.

It’s dominated by Wyatt’s unique voice and a healthy dose of pedal steel guitar. At times this is reminiscent of Tammy Wynette and old school "heart on your sleeve" country music. The quality Wyatt’s singing and songwriting sets it apart and rises above the rest.

Despite being her first release for New West records, she doesn’t play it safe. The up tempo title song would have made a great opening track, instead she opens with the gorgeous ballad, "Sweet Mess.” That’s followed by the intense and galloping beat of the title cut. Every song here is memorable and includes a duet with producer Jennings’ mother, Jessi Colter on “Just a Woman."

Great country music has always included an element of pain and struggle, and Jamie Wyatt bares it all. Addiction and even jail time are further evidence she has paid her dues. The rasp and pain in her voice makes it plain she that has lived these songs. Listen to the moaning pedal steel guitar that accompanies the heartbreakingly desperate plea in “Mercy.” Like any survivor, there is plenty of hope and even humor sprinkled through the eleven songs on Neon Cross.

Shooter Jennings does an excellent job of directing the songs and adding his vocal to “Hurt So Bad.” This a recording that will be remembered as one of 2020’s musical high points.[

Best Recordings of 2020: Arlo McKinley - Die Midwestern

 

Everyone loves an underdog. So the chances of a 40 year old singer/songwriter from Cincinnati releasing one of the best recordings of 2020 should be a cause for celebration. Most musicians have given up any hope of a career in music at 40. Fortunately, Arlo McKinley persevered and became the last artist signed by John Prine to his Oh Boy label prior to his death. Die Midwestern is one of the finest collection of songs in 2020. If McKinley was around in the 1980s, he would fit right in with mainstream rock-and-roll artists like Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, Tom Petty or Bob Seger. 

“Bag of Pills” has rightfully garnered attention as one of the standout tracks and was the song            that     convinced Prine to sign him. Selling pills so he can afford to take his girl out drinking is not the type of song you're going hear on commercial radio. This is old school, meat and potatoes music. These are not songs about driving a pickup to the beach. These are familiar subjects: love lost and found, pain and redemption, and the need to pick and leave in the hope of better things. But throughout is an underlying sense of hope and a search for something better. Die Midwestern immediately places Arlo McKinney among the more gifted songwriters on the Americana scene.

 

Jerry Jeff

It must have been 1984. Rick was a friend from work who was a little on the crazy side. He was a couple years older, and we shared a fondness for beer and good music. He lived in a double-wide out where the Play Land Amusement Park used to stand. It was there on a Sunday afternoon we were draining a 12 pack when he put on Ridin’ High a Jerry Jeff Walker record. I’ve been a fan ever since.  He wasn’t a what you would call a gifted singer, but he had his own unique persona. He wrote “Mr. Bojangles” which has become a standard in the repertoire of folkies everywhere, and a hit for The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. It fascinated me the more I learned about him and his story. Born Ronald Crosby in New York state he eventually moved to the Austin, Texas where he played a key role in the growing “Outlaw” country music scene. He was known as a man who rarely passed up a cold beverage, and his records were often wild affairs with songs that sounded like they were made up on the spot. Viva Terlingua is the best example of Jerry Jeff and The Lost Gonzo Band letting loose. In the middle of “Sangria Wine” his voice cracks while straining to reach the notes in the chorus, but records were not note perfect, but the spirit was there. He championed other talented songwriters by recording their songs. In the years since that Sunday afternoon, Jerry Jeff’s music has been a constant companion. Rick and I lost touch as friends sometimes do, and then I heard that he has passed away. I never found out why. And now Jerry Jeff has passed. But the music remains. 

My favorite Jerry Jeff story is told by fellow musician Todd Snyder. It’s on YouTube if want to track it down. Snyder had opened a show for Jerry Jeff. After closing a hotel bar, they were walking back to their hotel room at around 3:00am. Lo-and-behold, they heard someone on the deserted street playing “Mr. Bojangles.” They walked up and listened to the street performer while Todd Snyder debated on whether to tell this old man that the guy who wrote that song was standing right there. He decided not to. Jerry Jeff complemented the man and dropped a few bills into his guitar case.

 

https://youtu.be/m-CVpY4jRYI 

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DT6BzKftZkE

Overlooked Gems: John Stewart's The Phoenix Concerts

 

 

 

I don’t remember when I noticed John Stewart, but I know I waited far too long. About ten years ago, I bought California Bloodlines and experienced an incredible sense of discovery. Some have credited Bloodlines with being the first Americana record. I’ll leave that subject to others; I just want to let people know that if you love brilliant songwriters, and you haven’t done so yet, then check out John Stewart. While Bloodlines is an acknowledged classic, The Phoenix Concerts is an outstanding example of his early solo career and contains selections from Bloodlines.

John Stewart was already a veteran of the folk scene when he replaced Dave Guard, in The Kingston Trio in 1961. He brought with him proficiency on guitar, banjo, and the group recorded several of his original songs,. As the Beatles arrived and changed the musical landscape, the popularity of folk groups such as The Kingston Trio declined, and Stewart worked as solo artist. It was during this time that he wrote “Daydream Believer,” which became a smash hit for The Monkees. Commercial success eluded him, and he recorded for several major labels. 

It was on RCA he recorded The Phoenix Concerts. Live albums are hit and miss affairs. They rarely contain the best versions of an artist’s songs, but this is an exception. The applause is unobtrusive and the between songs patter is kept to a minimum. If this was the only recording John Stewart released, his reputation would have been etched in the pantheon of talented singers/songwriters. The sheer number of memorable songs is stunning. You’ll find no filler in this double album. The band is flawless, and the arrangements never get in the way or overwhelm the songs. 

And there are so many memorable songs. There are too many to go into detail here, but have a listen to “Runaway Fool of Love.” It rocks with an infectious opening guitar lick and rolls into a sing-a-long chorus. How wasn’t this a chart success? Others are the touching “Last Campaign Trilogy,” "The Oldest Living Son" and the stunning “Kansas.” Stewart passed away in 2008, but left a rich catalogue of great songs they deserve a wider audience.

https://youtu.be/ObiX_v-R4HE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4z7f_jx1jM 

 

 

Over Looked Gems: Great Songs That Deserve an Wider Audience

 

                                                 

 

Tom Rush began his career playing folk clubs in the Boston area in the mid-60s. He grew into an accomplished songwriter as well as an unusually gifted interpreter. He’s credited to be one of the first to record songs by unknown artists such as James Taylor, Jackson Browne, and Joni Mitchell. His landmark album The Circle Game, released in 1968 includes songs by all those aforementioned artists. In 1970, Rush released a self-titled record that included his stunning recording of David Wiffen’s “Lost My Driving Wheel.” The recording features David Bromberg on dobro and Paul Griffin's haunting organ. 

It’s been said that all stories lead back to The Bible or The Odyssey. “Driving Wheel” owes a nod to its Homeric narrative of a man desperate to be with the one he loves. As with many great songs, it leaves a lot of the details for the listener to fill in. But this track has a profound feeling of pain and loneliness. It uses every instrument to augment the narrator’s plight. Bromberg’s dobro is spare, but each phrase is necessary. This could be the hungover character from Kristofferson’s “Sunday Morning Coming Down” facing another night of wondering why things lead to his painful plight. Rush’s vocal says so much yet manages to between being understated yet intense. A classic.

 

https://www.tomrush.com/
 

 

In Memory of John Prine

 

Last April a friend texted me the news that John Prine was dead. The Chicago area weather dawned gray, overcast, chilly morning. It has amused me in the past, at the grief expressed by members of the public, at a celebrity’s death. But this felt personal. I considered him a hero. He who grew up a few miles away. I bought every album, saw him live several times, and became frustrated at his lack of new material. He was admired by his peers who seemed more popular than ever. The Covid pandemic had brought the country to a standstill, I was frustrated by the new reality of working via Zoom, and outside the chilly winds of winter lingered, and John Prine was dead.

 Christmas, 1973, and I got what I had asked for - the new John Prine album, Sweet Revenge. My sister bought it for me, but not before she let me know how difficult it was to find. “Why couldn’t you have asked for the new Paul Simon album?” Why? Because everyone listens to Paul Simon. I wanted a John Prine record. I grew up on Chicago’s South side reading about the local folkies and singer/songwriters in the pages of the Sun-Times. Steve Goodman, Fred and Ed Holstein, Jim Post, and Bonnie Koloc were rising stars on the local scene. Then along came Prine.

I waited until everyone was in bed that Christmas night and huddled on the floor against the stereo console in our living room. I turned the balance all the way to one channel and listened to Sweet Revenge. And I listened and listened. While others my age were listening to Led Zeppelin, I set out to wear out the grooves of  Sweet Revenge. A Good Time was my favorite. There were so many..."Mexican Home," “Christmas in Prison,” “Please Don’t Bury Me.” I soon got hold of his first two records. I would play “Hello in There” just to hear those opening finger-picked chords. 

It’s been several months since his passing. Months filled with violence in the streets, leaders who have failed us, and the growing acceptance that our daily life will never quite be the same. More than ever, the world could use a little John Prine.