December 2024

BES Album artwork website

Review: Black Eyed Sons – Cowboys In Pinstriped Suits

The Black Eyed Sons are back; but with a new name. Previously known as The Quireboys, the rock outfit have charged back into our lives with this instantly catchy album offering. First track ‘Lie To Me’ includes some too often underappreciated harmonica, which we are big fans of – in fact, there’s enough harmonica on this album to fill our boots! Guy Griffins rock vocal line on ‘Autumn Reigns’ gives a nostalgic, comforting side to the track, not completely out of line with the season itself. The title track steps in with ‘three chords and the truth’, showing exactly what Black Eyed Sons are aiming for with their renewed lineup in tow. Killer electric guitar riffs that you’d find in any rock show, lots of harmonies and stadium-filling drums. Overall, what a way to re-write their names in the history books!  Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Steve Knightley website

Review: Steve Knightley – The Winter Yards

Knightley’s album delivers an emotionally charged collection, starting with ‘Transactions,’ a beautifully written tribute to the downtrodden, addressing key issues in the UK, including immigration, identity, and the Post Office Scandal. ‘The Ride (The Winter Yards)’ offers a reflective, lockdown-inspired track, while ‘If You Come Back’ boasts a captivating guitar line, with a groove that oozes swagger. ‘I Tried’ brings a touch of melancholy, adding emotional depth to an already diverse album. ‘Requiem’ impresses with acapella harmonies, infusing the traditional ‘The Parting Glass’ with haunting beauty. ‘I’ll Never Forgive You’ echoes Nick Cave’s influence, while ‘The Mermaid (The Wedding Song)’ showcases Knightley’s lyrical wit. Closing with the moving ‘A Song for Wickham,’ this album is a well-rounded, poignant masterpiece.    Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Ricky Valido website

Spotlight: Ricky Valido

Your latest album, ‘A Collection of Songs’, presents a unique blend of traditional and contemporary country sounds. Where do you find yourself getting inspired most often?  Inspiration comes from personal experiences, my environment, and the people around me. I often pull from the juxtaposition of the modern world and vintage sounds that inspire me. Growing up near the Florida Everglades influenced my music deeply. Its beauty and wildness shape my perspective as an artist. While my music draws on my own life and experiences, my new project, ‘Dear Everglades’, will focus more on nature itself, particularly the Florida Everglades. This project dives into environmentalism, conservation, and how our relationship with nature shapes us.  The title suggests a compilation rather than a single concept. Can you share how the tracks came together and if there’s a common theme or thread linking them?  While ‘A Collection of Songs’ might sound like a compilation, there is a thread tying it together. Each track reflects different stages of my life, blending personal stories with metaphor and fiction. The songs move between emotional, reflective moments and upbeat, traditional country vibes. At its core, it’s about authenticity—each song tells a part of my story. The diversity in style reflects my range as a writer and performer.   ‘I Miss You Mama’ is one of my personal favourite cuts from the album, showcasing your versatility perfectly. How do you decide which direction to take with each track, both musically and lyrically?  Each song dictates its own direction. Sometimes it starts with the music, while other times it begins with a lyric or a feeling. For ‘I Miss You Mama’, the lyrics came from a personal place—it’s a tribute to my mother and great-grandmother. I wanted the arrangement simple to allow the message to come through. The story blends fiction with real emotions, depicting an outlaw on the run while reflecting my family connection. This song is personal and cathartic, both a tribute and an emotional release.  How does ‘A Collection of Songs’ reflect your musical journey up until this point, and in what ways do you feel it represents your growth as an artist?  This project is a culmination of my journey so far. I’ve blended traditional influences with a contemporary sound, pushed myself to experiment, and incorporated honky-tonk, bluegrass, and rock into my music. ‘A Collection of Songs’ represents my growth as a writer and performer. While I’m proud of this project, I’m even more excited about what’s next. ‘Dear Everglades’ will be a concept album tying my love of nature with artistic exploration. The shift to a more focused approach reflects my evolution, and I’m eager to see where this chapter takes me.    Which track on the album was the most personal for you to write or record, and why?  ‘I Miss You Mama’ was the most personal track to write and record. It channels my love and loss of my great-grandmother. Writing it was emotional, and the recording process was cathartic. I felt a need to honour maternal figures, and the song resonates with those who have lost loved ones. The emotional vulnerability is something I’m proud of—it’s a piece of my heart I’ve shared with the world.  Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com  

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Black Eyed Sons website

Spotlight: Black Eyed Sons

The formation of Black Eyed Sons seems to be a celebration of both your personal connections and musical history. Can you tell us about how this new project came together?  It was nice to come out of a turbulent situation like The Quireboys and have the freedom to explore new influences whilst still honouring what the band had created and achieved in the past. To be able to collaborate with some of our guests really made the recording process a lot more interesting and inspiring.   Your debut album ‘Cowboys in Pinstriped Suits’ is generating a lot of excitement. What can fans expect in terms of sound and style on this record compared to your previous work with The Quireboys?  Thank you! We’re excited to be doing something new… I keep telling people we’re a new band with a long history… There’s a couple of tracks that are a nod to our old style but as this is a brand new project there was a lot more freedom to branch out, especially with different guests bringing their own styles to the table.  ‘Foolin Yourself’ features Steve Conte and Kyf Brewer from Company of Wolves. You’ve known Steve and Kyf since 1989. How has your relationship with them influenced the way this collaboration came together, both musically and personally?  I think Steve and Kyf probably have a lot of similar influences to us, even though we’re from different sides of the pond. I met them originally at Cherokee studios in Los Angeles whilst recording ‘A bit of what you fancy’. They were in the studio next door recording their debut. It was a crazy time back then, great memories… Their drummer, Frankie LaRocka, actually went on to become a successful A&R man and later signed another band of mine called Glimmer to Atlantic records back in 1999.  With the album due for release on 31st January 2025, how do you feel about introducing new material to your fans, especially with the upcoming launch event at The Lexington? What are you most excited about for the album’s release?  Excited and nervous at the same time. It’ll be almost 18 months since we last played in the UK, so it’ll be great to see some familiar faces in the audience. There are people flying in from the US, France, Sweden & Italy, that means a lot to us. We recently had our first rehearsals and all the songs lend themselves to being played live. We’ll be playing the whole record for the first time live ever. We’re very proud of the album and can’t wait for people to hear it. It’s the beginning of a new chapter.  Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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FKC salt lake city website

FOR KING + COUNTRY’s ‘A Drummer Boy Christmas’ Delights Fans

On 11th December, Maverick had the privilege of attending ‘A Drummer Boy Christmas’, the festive extravaganza from dynamic Christian rock duo For KING + COUNTRY. The show, brimming with feel-good energy, also celebrated the 10th birthday of FK+C’s beloved ‘Little Drummer Boy’, a young performer who takes the role of the titular character on stage. As the crowd celebrated the boy’s birthday with a raucous rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’, the boy beamed, heightening the sense of togetherness that encapsulated the sentiment of the season. The setlist featured a mix of classic Christmas carols and the duo’s own chart-topping tracks. Highlights included moving renditions of ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’, ‘Joy to the World’, and ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’, as well as the uplifting ‘Burn the Ships’ and the powerful ‘Together’. In between the music, Joel and Luke Smallbone engaged with the audience, reflecting on a charitable cause close to their hearts, adding a deeply personal touch to the evening. However, it was their performance of ‘Unsung Hero’—the title track from their latest album and film dedicated to their mother—that truly captured the heart of the audience. As the brothers sat at the front of the stage for this emotional tribute, there was not a dry eye in the room. With stunning visuals, angelic vocals, and a talented live band, ‘A Drummer Boy Christmas’ is a must-see for anyone looking to embrace the true spirit of Christmas. For those who can’t get enough of the magic, For KING + COUNTRY’s ‘A Drummer Boy Christmas (Live) The Cinematic Concert Album’ is available now.   To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Richard Lynch website

Richard Lynch: Country Legend 

Richard Lynch’s journey through country music has been nothing short of remarkable. With a career that spans over four decades, Lynch has been steadfast in his commitment to preserving the traditional sound of country music at a time when the genre seems to be constantly shifting. From his humble beginnings in Lebanon, Ohio, to being inducted into both the Ohio Country Music Hall of Fame and the Independent Country Music Hall of Fame, Lynch has stayed true to his roots, and it’s this authenticity that makes his music resonate deeply with fans. We sat down with Richard Lynch to discuss his journey, the evolution of country music, his upcoming projects, and the importance of community.  Lynch’s deep connection to country music began early. “I grew up in a country music household,” he recalls. “My dad was an incredible singer and guitar player, and he was a true entertainer.” Lynch’s father, a musician himself, instilled in him an appreciation for authenticity. “He didn’t write songs, but his delivery of a song was so powerful. You couldn’t help but pay attention,” Lynch says. “He taught me to be true to yourself and to love what you do.” Lynch’s early life was filled with the sounds of traditional country music. “As a young boy, I was always surrounded by music,” he explains. “In our house, we’d listen to Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, and all the greats. That’s how I came to understand what country music really is.” Growing up in Lebanon, Ohio, Lynch was surrounded by small-town values, the kind that placed emphasis on hard work, faith, and authenticity. These values helped shape Lynch’s approach to life and music. “It wasn’t just about playing music,” he says. “It was about sharing a piece of who you are with others.” His experiences growing up were steeped in the same rich traditions that define country music, giving him an intimate understanding of the genre’s roots.  For Lynch, country music wasn’t just a genre; it was a way of life. “Growing up in Lebanon, Ohio, you could feel the heartbeat of traditional country music,” he shares. “It wasn’t about trends or commercial success—it was about telling real stories and speaking from the heart. That’s what I loved, and that’s what I’ve always wanted to do with my own music.” His upbringing laid the foundation for his steadfast commitment to keeping traditional country music alive. “Even though mainstream country music started to change and embrace pop influences, I never wavered in my love for the traditional sound,” he says. “I’m proud to play the kind of country music that still has heart and soul. That’s the kind of music that really connects with people.” Lynch’s passion for the genre hasn’t waned over time, in fact it only grows day by day. “I believe country music has always been about community,” he says. “Whether you’re on stage or off, country music has a way of bringing people together, of making them feel like they belong. It’s a sound that speaks to everyone, regardless of where they come from.”      Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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C2C Songwriters 2025

The CMA returns to the UK for C2C 2025

CMA Songwriters Series kicks off C2C London Featuring Darius Rucker as host, performing alongside Jessi Alexander, Wyatt Flores, Mickey Guyton, and Tucker Wetmore. The Country Music Association returns to the U.K. in March 2025 for C2C: Country to Country festival, featuring its critically acclaimed CMA Songwriters Series in London. As Country Music continues to see growing global popularity, with established stars setting new records and fresh talent gaining recognition like never before, CMA is honored to continue its mission of expanding the genre’s reach around the world. Serving as the official kickoff leading into C2C, the CMA Songwriters Series show at Indigo at The O2 in London on Thursday, March 13 will feature performances by Jessi Alexander, Wyatt Flores, Mickey Guyton, Darius Rucker and Tucker Wetmore. “We are so excited for the lineup of artists featured as part of this year’s CMA Songwriters Series in London,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA CEO. “It will be the first time that Mickey Guyton and Tucker Wetmore have ever performed in the U.K.; and we are honored to have our longtime friend, and U.K. fan favorite, Darius Rucker as our host for the evening.” Tickets for the CMA Songwriters Series will go on sale Friday, December 6.   To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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