Top Picks Archives - Page 24 of 34

Review: ‘Hourglass’ – Murray McLauchlan

McLauchlan’s greatest relationship on this album is with the pedal steel – his beautiful lyrics and vocal melodies set to soaring pedal steel is what makes this album truly stand out. It is a deep record that explores current affairs such as systematic racism and economic disparity. The Juno Award winners 20th studio album is perhaps his finest. Songs such as Pandemic Blues acts as a comfort to all as it acknowledges the suffering and loneliness the pandemic has caused so many. The simplicity of the lyrics puts life into perspective and helps the message become more easily digestible. If You’re Out There Jesus addresses McLauchlan’s atheism but considers what he’d say to God if he was religious. The sparse production makes way for his raspy vocals that are filled with emotions of desperation and doubt as he tentatively explores the notion of God and Jesus. Again, the pedal steel is McLauchlan’s friend on this one. The album concludes with the bright, positive vibes of Wishes, a stand out track on the album that simply states what McLauchlan would like from the world, many of the things he lists ring true for most of us making it another relatable and thought provoking song. The album feels much like a simple request of what we need to do better as a society all set to swooning pedal steels and arpeggiated acoustic guitars. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘Hourglass’ – Murray McLauchlan Read More »

Review: ‘A Sweet Relief Tribute to Joey Spampinato’

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Editor

Joey Spampinato, the founding member of rock band NRBQ, is currently struggling with health issues and financial difficulties associated with those health struggles. As such a talented group of musicians have come together to raise funds by showcasing just what an incredible songwriter Spampinato is. The album features artists such as Bonnie Raitt and Los Lobos who both cite Spampinato as an inspiration within their own work. However, it’s Buddy Miller and Jim Lauderdale’s tribute to the bassist and songwriter that jumps out at me. They cover How Will I Know, originally released in 2013. Their rendition both pays homage to the original whilst making it their own and the pair’s vocals sound great together. Concluding the album is a previously unreleased song performed by Joey Spampinato himself and wife Kami Lyle called First Crush. The vocal melodies are gorgeous, both singers sing almost in a whisper and the arrangement makes it feel quite intimate. All funds from this fabulous album will go to the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund which provides financial assistance to musicians who are struggling to make ends meet due to illness or age-related issues. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘A Sweet Relief Tribute to Joey Spampinato’ Read More »

Review: ‘Razor Blade Smile’ – Emily Duff

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Editor

Duff’s latest record shows off her songwriting capabilities with catchy chorus’, sung by earthy vocals, set to a high end groove driven production. Whether it’s the rockabilly shuffle of Flying Paper planes, the stripped-back, longing sound of Feelin’ Alright, or the sultry tones of Don’t Hang The Moon, Duff injects emotion into each song as the lyrics pour out. Meanwhile, the rock-leaning title track ramps up the energy and introduces us to Duff’s feisty side, there is more freedom in her gritty vocals on this track as she adapts to the urgency and emotion of the song. However the stand out for me comes in the form of Done and Done which lets the organ, a sound we often hear in classic country records, play a central role within the song. The production feels nostalgic and supports Duff’s mix of rock n roll and country-soul along with her vocal technique throughout the album so credit must be given to Eric ‘Roscoe’ Ambel, who produced the record. Concluding with the 6/8 time Nicotine and Waiting, which is lyrically one of the strongest on the album – it paints a vivid picture in the listeners mind – the album is Duff’s finest to date. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘Razor Blade Smile’ – Emily Duff Read More »

Review: ‘Wide Eyed Elk Ensemble’ – Fences

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Editor

Fences Wide Eyed Elk Ensemble ENCI Records 30/04/21 Christopher Mansfield AKA Fences is popular within the indie-folk world, releasing several successful albums since 2010. However, the Seattle native has just teamed up with GRAMMY award-winning bluegrass musician Billy Strings for his latest single ‘Globe’ which boasts a more acoustic feel to it as the pair’s vocals blend well together over the sound of the soft folk guitars. Written by Mansfield and Strings and co-produced by the pair, the detailed lyrics transport you to the world they perfectly describe. This latest single follows the release of his EP ‘Wide Eyed Elk Ensemble’. The five track record opens with the soothing sound of ‘Boot Height’, one of the singles from the EP. It features an interesting production, the effected banjo and reverb on the backing vocals are a particular highlight on the percussion based track. Meanwhile, the beautiful guitar tones in ‘Shape Shifter’ really bring the song to life whilst Mansfield delivers a wonderful vocal performance, that adds strength and depth to the weight of the lyrics. The record is punctuated with the slightly darker ‘My Pale King’ and concludes with ‘Fake Snow’, a gentle laid back track which features some lush, prominent female backing vocals which echo the lead vocals. The five track EP, that many would concur is over too quickly, takes you on a journey – Fences songwriting is simple yet personable and relatable whilst his melodies are calming and have a familiarity about them. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘Wide Eyed Elk Ensemble’ – Fences Read More »

Review: ‘Goodnight Riverdale Park’ – Suitcase Sam

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rochelle Mills

Suitcase Sam Goodnight Riverdale Park Curve Music Emerging from a somewhat mysterious background, this is the first full length offering from Canadian Suitcase Sam and is a major step forward from his two previous EPs, ‘Waiting On A Train’ and ‘Get It And Go’. Fusing country, blues, jazz and folk, ‘Goodnight Riverdale Park’ ought to elevate Suitcase Sam to the fringes of the country music premier league. His vocals have an ‘old timey or I’ve lost my false teeth’ feel which sometimes get rather drowned out by the excellent band and backing vocals. Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers influences abound and we could be listening to Hank’s Drifting Cowboys on Friday Afternoon which gets a second airing along with Tattered Shoes. The instrumental Maple Leaf Stomp has a gorgeous Charleston beat whilst Sam drifts into depression on the slow bluesy My, Oh My. Growing Up is a fine country rocking opening but the album generally focuses on Suitcase Sam’s drifting existence and The Grand Trunk Pacific Coast Railroad puts his life into perspective. Transport yourself back in time to when country music was real country music. By John Roffey To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘Goodnight Riverdale Park’ – Suitcase Sam Read More »

Review: ‘New Beautiful’ – Sherman Downey

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rochelle Mills

Sherman Downey New Beautiful Independent Sherman Downey delivers a record packed with positivity; ten tracks beautifully orchestrated to paint a picture of a world rediscovered. Downey’s melodies are quite captivating, his soft vocals speak directly to the listener whilst his choice of instrumentation feels very experimental. However it proves to be a success as Downey creates a rather unique space for himself. Shiftwork is a stand out track on the record and a prime example of the unusual production and arrangement that really gives Downey his own style. Fingerguns, despite its sombre feel, has a playful, child like lyrical theme to it whilst the funky production and the piano riffs in Romancer make this track the most bold on the record. Tracks like Long Goodbye help the record to lean slightly more into the country remit with its slight twang and clever lyrics. For the most part, it’s a cohesive collection of songs. Sherman Downey’s take on country-influenced folk-pop is incomparable. This is a record that takes you on a beautiful musical journey from start to finish and will have you coming away feeling refreshed. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘New Beautiful’ – Sherman Downey Read More »

Review: ‘A Better Word For Love’ – Ronnie Milsap

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rochelle Mills

Ronnie Milsap A Better Word For Love Black River Entertainment The album opens with the foot-tappingly good Honky Tonk tune Big Bertha which sees Milsap team up with Vince Gill for the song written by Carl Perkins, DJ Perkins and Randy Moore. Milsap received the special package from Carl Perkins’ widow, containing the last song the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer ever wrote. She knew Milsap would do it justice and Milsap knew Vince Gill was the man to collaborate with on the song about a Golf Club. The stand out track for me on this record is the Brent Maher, Allen Shamblin, Mike Reid penned This Side Of Heaven. The love song is beautifully executed by Milsap and the backing vocals in the chorus give it a slightly different dimension. The live rendition of Civil War which was actually recorded in 1993 is a real treat and has never been so timely. The song which begins with the light hearted theme of young siblings arguing and likening it to a civil war has a deeper message as it dives into political divides. The grit, power and passion in Milsap’s vocals is truly inspiring and its a welcome addition to the record. The production and again Milspa’s vocals, which have never been better, match the theme of the explosive Fireworks as the instrumental break down allows an unusual relationship to form between a horn section and pedal steel. To summarise Milsap brings the party with this upbeat, rocking record which feels like it’s come straight out of the honky tonk. The all-star line-up of songwriters coupled with Milsap’s fiery delivery brings this record to life. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘A Better Word For Love’ – Ronnie Milsap Read More »

Review: ‘Willing’ – Lady Nade

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rochelle Mills

Lady Nade Willing Independent Fresh from her recent UK Americana Award nomination, singer-songwriter, Lady Nade releases her third album. She has always been the kind of writer who has drawn influence from the things she has experienced and has taken solace in the therapeutic creative process. Upon listening to ‘Willing’ it is clear that once again Lady Nade has tapped into those experiences and emotions. As well as exploring the topics of loneliness and solitude, Lady Nade continues to explore themes of love, friendship and family on a record that boasts a simple production. Peace and Calm tells the story of her Grandad, she takes on a slightly theatrical tone to her voice when she wishes to emphasise an aspect of the story as she paints a clear picture in the listeners mind. Rock Bottom has a much more upbeat feel to it albeit with an accusatory tone to the lyrics though it is a welcome change on the 11-tack record and a stand-out track. Lady Nade’s soulful voice and use of expression is what makes this record special. Whilst her ability to tell a detailed yet relatable story is a gift. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘Willing’ – Lady Nade Read More »

Review: ‘Long Black River’ – J R Harbidge

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rochelle Mills

J R Harbidge Long Black River Mob Acoustic Recordings J R Harbidge’s sophomore album delivers memorable melodies and heartfelt lyrics. The country/americana artist hailing from the UK stays true to himself whilst packing the record with plenty of nods to the roots of the country genre. The highly produced record starts with Wrong Side of the Fight, the lead single off the album. The stubborn song focuses on the them of believing you’re in the right just for it to turn out you were wrong all along. JR’s vocals are soft, they have a wispiness to them but still have a strength about them in the opening number. You Saved Me Twice is a real highlight on the album, this is a prime example of Harbidge’s ear for a melodic hook and his ability to take a song somewhere unexpected, giving his songwriting a unique flavour. Meanwhile, the title track which brings the record to a conclusion demonstrates the multi-instrumentalist’s attention to detail when it comes to production and arrangement. The differentiation between each of the sections is so well thought out, allowing each verse and chorus to feel fresh whilst maintaining fairly smooth transitions. JR Harbidge has certainly arrived with his second album, cementing himself as one of the finest musicians and songwriters to come out of the UK country/americana scene in a very long time. If he wasn’t already on your radar, he certainly should be now. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘Long Black River’ – J R Harbidge Read More »

Review: ‘Rediscovered’ – Dulcie Taylor

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rochelle Mills

Dulcie Taylor Rediscovered Mesa/Bluemoon Recordings The record which revisits songs from the past twenty years is a real showcase EP which demonstrates an array of different styles of music that Taylor has tried her hand at. The sparse production of ‘Rediscovered’ gives Taylor’s raw vocals and songwriting room to take centre stage. The arrangement of the opening track Woman I Used To Be helps to build tension. The fan favourite has a touch of the blues as the angst of the song bubbles under the surface. First Kiss has a jazz element to it. Taylor’s smooth vocals are brought up in the mix and the addition of a solo saxophone in the chorus gives me goosebumps. The backing vocal harmonies take it to the next level. The acoustic country twang of Watch Me Hurt deals with heartbreak whilst Maybe concludes the album on a more positive country-pop vibe. It’s an eclectic collection of songs, some of which were first released back in 2004. Loyal fans will be delighted to hear some of these songs again as Dulcie Taylor rediscovers the stories behind them. To stay up to date on the latest country music news, please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Zoe Hodges, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Review: ‘Rediscovered’ – Dulcie Taylor Read More »