PREMIERES

Leslie Tom’s Ain’t It Something, Hank Williams is not your typical tribute record. It’s a 10-track reflection of Leslie’s own journey in life, thoughtfully—and often playfully—intertwined with Hank Williams-inspired tales of addiction, love, heartache and loss. “A part of all of us died, too, the day he passed away,” she croons on “Mr. Williams,” spotlighting […]

For the past decade, John Calvin Abney has made a name for himself as a solo artist and sought-after sideman. He’s toured as lead guitarist for fellow Oklahoman John Moreland, recording with him on his last two acclaimed albums, and in between, the prolific Abney found time to add another impressive record to his own […]

Minor Characters is a rock band in the truest sense. As lifelong Chicagoans, the men in Minor Characters carry with them that very American blend of wistful angst and ever striving hope. After their last record, the full length Voir Dire released in 2014, they collectively experienced more of the former. “Getting that out was […]

Charlie Overbey may be a lifelong Californian, but his songs are steeped in the timeless traditions of the American South. After years of touring the world supporting acts ranging from David Allan Coe and Blackberry Smoke to Social Distortion and Motorhead, Overbey slowly amassed a collection of introspective original songs that transcend the endless rock […]

Upon first listening to Bonnie Montgomery, it’s easy to mistakenly assume that you’ve stumbled upon a long-buried track by a legend from the golden era of country western music. Such is the artistry of this Arkansas native and silver-voiced songstress. Her story is of her journey, but she presents it through a folk/bluegrass/country perspective that’s […]

Ventura Skies is an unexpected return from a songwriter who just a few years ago thought he might never make another album again. But a romantic breakup and the death of his father to cancer coaxed music out of Noah Lamberth as he dealt with the loss & hurt. “The best way to deal with […]

Jackson, Mississippi’s Young Valley offers points of view from three songwriters: fraternal twins Zach Lovett and Dylan Lovett, and Spencer Thomas. Each of them bring a different perspective to the table, and present their lyrics with musical styles from traditional country to southern-tinged rock ‘n’ roll. Since the release of their debut album No Filter […]

Bridging both genres and generations with original music steeped in the history of its influences, Hood Smoke’s sonic narrative illustrates timeless stories using beautifully simple melodies set to a rhythmic foundation built firmly from the bass up. Since the release of their debut album, Laid Up In Ordinary (2012), Chicago’s Hood Smoke has continued to […]

No offense, but the funk scene these days leaves much to be desired. Many of the acts that are out there now rely heavily on uninspired tributes and bland grooves that may showcase plenty of technique but lack any kind of soul. Sure, it may be fun to dance to when you’re high, but it […]

After Janiva Magness added a 2016 Grammy nomination to her 26 Blues Music Award nominations — with seven wins, including Entertainer of the Year — she might have taken at least a short rest on her laurels. Instead, one of the preeminent voices in contemporary American roots music has raised the bar for herself. This […]

With seven distinct personalities, Juice distills rock, r&b and hip-hop into a signature sound with a flavorful kick of electric violin, rich harmonies, honest lyrics, and festival-worthy choruses. The Boston septet—Ben Stevens [lead vocals],Christian Rose [violin, vocals], Kamau Burton [acoustic guitar, vocals], Daniel Moss [guitar], Michael Ricciardulli [guitar], Rami El-Abidin [bass], and Miles Clyatt [drums]—perfects […]

You’ve never heard anything quite like Big Little Lions. Well, that’s not exactly true. Helen Austin and Paul Otten, who comprise this intriguing duo, occasionally echo elements of artists who came before. Helen’s vocals ring with a strength that recalls the late Dolores O’Riordan at her most passionate. Their songs might bring to mind some […]

When the world was first introduced to up and coming Australian singer/songwriter Joel Taylor in 2017, he debuted with his double single Two Sides. His unique blend of American soul music with modern touches driven by his deeply, emotional and soaring voice made his presence known as one of the new and exciting faces in […]

Blending rock, folk, soul and jazz, NYC outfit Elk City have garnered something of a cult following  that started back in the early 1990s and hasn’t used its safe word yet. From humble, noisy beginnings to a sonically rich sound that is full of depth and detail, Elk City’s soundscapes encompass galaxies while retaining intimate […]

With the clarity of vision of a millenial, the old soul of a troubadour, and the timing of a stand-up comedian, John Craigie’s live shows have his rapidly growing audiences hanging on every word. The humor that runs throughout his songs and the narratives that accompany them touch on embarrassing iPhone photos, Election Night 2016, […]

Austin-based indie rock band Midcentury could be described as a group that straddles the line between nostalgic and post-modern music; their sound is crisp and new age, yet, it is reminiscent of indie and classic rock with hints of 80s synth pop. The band members came to Austin from all across the country and found […]

When artists have a certain degree of laudable talent in their arsenal, expectations can be quite high whenever they endeavor to branch out on their own. Good thing Tim Jones and Leroy Powell, the dynamic songwriting and performing tandem known collectively as Whiskey Wolves of the West, knew just how to harness the chops they […]

Marmalakes is the Austin duo of Chase Weinacht (guitarist/writer) and Josh Halpern (drummer/producer), lifelong friends whose spirited intensity leaps from their recordings. Since the band’s beginning, they’ve worked in various projects (Shearwater, Palo Duro, Here Cinema) but always return to write songs together. An affinity for high energy performances and strategic pop nuance has found […]

Just when you think American roots music should be relegated to the dusty confines of a purist’s museum, it will surprise you with a paradigm shift. Take Marty O’Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra — passing through tradition, the quartet stumbled upon innovation, proving that old souls can be creatively fresh. The Santa Cruz, California-based […]

The Fleeting Ends are a group of Philadelphia native musicians that have reformed and reclaimed the name after the original lineup parted ways in 2014. Frontman/guitarist/songwriter Matt Vantine took off for San Francisco after the group split and began establishing himself as a solo act. Upon returning home in 2017, he met singer-songwriters Michael Kahana […]