Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Stumps Mix
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Sadler Vaden has a great gig - playing guitar for Jason Isbell, and he makes some pretty awesome music on his own, too. Opening for American Aquarium at The Basement in Nashville, Vaden was backed by a fellow Isbell bandmate on keyboards, Steelism's drummer, and the bass player for Sheryl Crow, and they heated up a cold, dreary Monday night.
Headliners, American Aquarium were the artist with most tour dates in 2014 according to Bandsintown app. I understand they are expected to play even more dates in 2015. They have a new album, Wolves, due out in February, and they treated a sold out Nashville crowd with a healthy dose of their signature high energy Alt-Country/Rock and sad songs. If this ends up being the last live music I see in 2014, it was a heck of a way to end the year!
This year seems to be winding down. It has been a year of changes and challenges and growth of the kind I thought I was incapable of experiencing let alone surviving. I have good feelings about 2015, and I hope you will join me for what is sure to be an interesting year. There are tons of new albums on the immediate horizon and as always new and old music to be discovered/rediscovered. This is the last proper shuffle of 2014, but I think maybe the year isn't over yet. There may be a surprise shuffle and maybe even a "Band of the Year" post coming up. Peace!
A great Monday night at The Basement with Sadler Vaden opening for American Aquarium.
Sadler Vaden has a great gig - playing guitar for Jason Isbell, and he makes some pretty awesome music on his own, too. Opening for American Aquarium at The Basement in Nashville, Vaden was backed by a fellow Isbell bandmate on keyboards, Steelism's drummer, and the bass player for Sheryl Crow, and they heated up a cold, dreary Monday night.
Headliners, American Aquarium were the artist with most tour dates in 2014 according to Bandsintown app. I understand they are expected to play even more dates in 2015. They have a new album, Wolves, due out in February, and they treated a sold out Nashville crowd with a healthy dose of their signature high energy Alt-Country/Rock and sad songs. If this ends up being the last live music I see in 2014, it was a heck of a way to end the year!
This year seems to be winding down. It has been a year of changes and challenges and growth of the kind I thought I was incapable of experiencing let alone surviving. I have good feelings about 2015, and I hope you will join me for what is sure to be an interesting year. There are tons of new albums on the immediate horizon and as always new and old music to be discovered/rediscovered. This is the last proper shuffle of 2014, but I think maybe the year isn't over yet. There may be a surprise shuffle and maybe even a "Band of the Year" post coming up. Peace!
Monday, December 29, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Move over Captain America Mix
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I would like to preface today's shuffle by saying that a big pet peeve of mine are people of a certain age who loudly decry "music these days" and who pine for some different era. They usually "prove" their point by referencing some trendy pop act of today and offer up for comparisons sake some legend of a different era who has stood the test of time. It is not only the logic that is faulty, but such statements are a sign of laziness. There is a ton of great music being made "these days" - far more than even this music blogger than cover. So my advise to those who would rant in the manner mentioned above is either 1. Seek out music - there are far more ways to do this than there ever were or 2. Shut up and admit that you are unwilling to do so and that you prefer the music of your younger days.
All that being said, music has a special power to evoke... music which was an integral part of the formative years of our lives does hold a special place. It is in that spirit that I offer up today's shuffle which a total throwback to my days of yore.
I would like to preface today's shuffle by saying that a big pet peeve of mine are people of a certain age who loudly decry "music these days" and who pine for some different era. They usually "prove" their point by referencing some trendy pop act of today and offer up for comparisons sake some legend of a different era who has stood the test of time. It is not only the logic that is faulty, but such statements are a sign of laziness. There is a ton of great music being made "these days" - far more than even this music blogger than cover. So my advise to those who would rant in the manner mentioned above is either 1. Seek out music - there are far more ways to do this than there ever were or 2. Shut up and admit that you are unwilling to do so and that you prefer the music of your younger days.
All that being said, music has a special power to evoke... music which was an integral part of the formative years of our lives does hold a special place. It is in that spirit that I offer up today's shuffle which a total throwback to my days of yore.
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
#E2TG Christmas Closeout
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So, I ended up with 21 Christmas songs left on my playlist and since I'm out of shuffles, And since, I don't want to have Christmas music left over after the Holiday is over, I thought I would post a special Evening Shuffle of music from my commute home. This will take care of 13 songs. Special thanks to PopaTunes aka David Horton for thinking of me - as he often does and sending me the mixtape of vintage Christmas songs. A most interesting collection - I must say.
I'm not going to comment on these songs, I'll just post the playlist since i managed to find all 13 songs on YouTube and let you listen at your leisure. These songs range from the sublime and spiritual to the silly and groovy, Something for almost everyone. Enjoy! And Happy Christmas and Peace on Earth to all no matter what you do or don't celebrate.
I intend to post the remaining 8 songs over on the Ear to the Ground Facebook page in a little bit. So if you haven't, now might be a good time to head over and give the page the old "Thumbs Up!"
So, I ended up with 21 Christmas songs left on my playlist and since I'm out of shuffles, And since, I don't want to have Christmas music left over after the Holiday is over, I thought I would post a special Evening Shuffle of music from my commute home. This will take care of 13 songs. Special thanks to PopaTunes aka David Horton for thinking of me - as he often does and sending me the mixtape of vintage Christmas songs. A most interesting collection - I must say.
I'm not going to comment on these songs, I'll just post the playlist since i managed to find all 13 songs on YouTube and let you listen at your leisure. These songs range from the sublime and spiritual to the silly and groovy, Something for almost everyone. Enjoy! And Happy Christmas and Peace on Earth to all no matter what you do or don't celebrate.
I intend to post the remaining 8 songs over on the Ear to the Ground Facebook page in a little bit. So if you haven't, now might be a good time to head over and give the page the old "Thumbs Up!"
PLAYLIST
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Mambo and Lasso Santa Mix
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This is the last morning shuffle of the week, I am taking a few days off wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a joyous time...
This is the last morning shuffle of the week, I am taking a few days off wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a joyous time...
Monday, December 22, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Endings for Beginning in Dm Mix
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So, it's the penultimate post before Ear to the Ground takes a few days off for Christmas. I'm just saying this because I like using the word penultimate. Anyway, today's shuffle is a good one, and I hope you enjoy.
So, it's the penultimate post before Ear to the Ground takes a few days off for Christmas. I'm just saying this because I like using the word penultimate. Anyway, today's shuffle is a good one, and I hope you enjoy.
Friday, December 19, 2014
Friday Afternoon Music Shuffle - What's So Funny Mix
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I took the day off work and barely saw the morning.... so no traditional shuffle but I did run an errand earlier and shuffled a few tunes.... Plus I had some other things to share:
I took the day off work and barely saw the morning.... so no traditional shuffle but I did run an errand earlier and shuffled a few tunes.... Plus I had some other things to share:
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Like a Freebird Wheel Mix
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Today's subtitle is a tribute to the mind-blowing weekly party that goes down every single Wednesday night at Fran's Eastside Tavern in East Nashville, Tennessee. Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury have been doing this thing since July or so, and I've only missed a couple. When it began, Darrin would play for an hour or so and then Tim would take over and then they would play together at the end of the evening. In time, drummer David Strayer began sitting in and then (when he returned from an extended time up North) Cameron Carrus joined in on the upright bass, and the Fran's Eastside Super High Band was formed. Now-a-days, Tim begins playing sometime before 8:30 (I don't think I've ever made it there before he began) and the band joins in as they arrive. Darrin plays (with Tim playing guitar). Singer Luella Wood has been known to serenade us with a few songs each night, and at various times Trombones, additional guitars, and other assorted folks have joined in the party. Special guests have been known to show up including singer/songwriter legend Dave Dondero and last night Nathan Kalish and the Lastcallers. It's a seriously fun night and if you can handle the copious amounts of second-hand smoke, you should come on out if you are in the area.
Last night's show ended the traditional "Freebird" and "Wagon Wheel" one-two punch which Darrin Bradbury managed to lyrically mash-up in the manner of our subtitle.
On to the shuffle:
Today's subtitle is a tribute to the mind-blowing weekly party that goes down every single Wednesday night at Fran's Eastside Tavern in East Nashville, Tennessee. Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury have been doing this thing since July or so, and I've only missed a couple. When it began, Darrin would play for an hour or so and then Tim would take over and then they would play together at the end of the evening. In time, drummer David Strayer began sitting in and then (when he returned from an extended time up North) Cameron Carrus joined in on the upright bass, and the Fran's Eastside Super High Band was formed. Now-a-days, Tim begins playing sometime before 8:30 (I don't think I've ever made it there before he began) and the band joins in as they arrive. Darrin plays (with Tim playing guitar). Singer Luella Wood has been known to serenade us with a few songs each night, and at various times Trombones, additional guitars, and other assorted folks have joined in the party. Special guests have been known to show up including singer/songwriter legend Dave Dondero and last night Nathan Kalish and the Lastcallers. It's a seriously fun night and if you can handle the copious amounts of second-hand smoke, you should come on out if you are in the area.
Last night's show ended the traditional "Freebird" and "Wagon Wheel" one-two punch which Darrin Bradbury managed to lyrically mash-up in the manner of our subtitle.
On to the shuffle:
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Fairytales and Other Legends Mix
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I'm short on time and don't really have much preliminary banter... so let's just get to the shuffle - we have a good one today!
I'm short on time and don't really have much preliminary banter... so let's just get to the shuffle - we have a good one today!
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
A Very Ear to the Ground Christmas
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To tell the truth for a variety of reasons, my Holiday spirit has been lacking this year, but nothing gets me pumped up for the Yule Season more than hearing some brand new Christmas songs from some of my favorite artists.
Now, these songs may still come up in a Shuffle soon, but with the number of posts before Christmas dwindling fast, I thought I would dedicate a special post... so jump past the break and listen to Christmas Ear to the Ground style.
To tell the truth for a variety of reasons, my Holiday spirit has been lacking this year, but nothing gets me pumped up for the Yule Season more than hearing some brand new Christmas songs from some of my favorite artists.
Now, these songs may still come up in a Shuffle soon, but with the number of posts before Christmas dwindling fast, I thought I would dedicate a special post... so jump past the break and listen to Christmas Ear to the Ground style.
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Tilt-a-Whirl Mix
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Well! The impromptu debut of Ear to the Ground Presents: at The Building last night was a huge success or at least a hell of a lot of fun with some awesome music. Thanks to Darrin Bradbury for doing all the leg work, and to The Western Shore, Sarah Potenza, Jon Latham, and Darrin and The Fran's Eastside Super High Band for bringing the awesome tunes. Hopefully, this will be a semi-regular thing in 2015.
Let's jump into the shuffle... shall we?
Well! The impromptu debut of Ear to the Ground Presents: at The Building last night was a huge success or at least a hell of a lot of fun with some awesome music. Thanks to Darrin Bradbury for doing all the leg work, and to The Western Shore, Sarah Potenza, Jon Latham, and Darrin and The Fran's Eastside Super High Band for bringing the awesome tunes. Hopefully, this will be a semi-regular thing in 2015.
Let's jump into the shuffle... shall we?
Monday, December 15, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - The Drifting Mix
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I am thinking about starting a new weekly post or something promoting the #E2TG recommended shows around Nashville each week. I have not decided upon a format or anything, but if you have suggestions or events for consideration, hit me up.
In the meantime, get ready to kick off the last full week before Christmas with a pretty awesome show at The Building in East Nashville tonight. It is Open Road Monday. Doors open at 7:00 with music starting at 8:00. The show features The Western Shore, Sarah Potenza, Darrin Bradbury and Jon Latham. An open mic follows so bring you guitars and songs down and dig it. The BLDG is BYOB or you can cross the patio to Drifter's BBQ and bring something back. The Building is at 1008 #C Woodland Street right behind Drifter's. Come out for some Ear to the Ground recommended musical offerings..
"The Drifting" by The Torn Images
"Harmless Sparks" by American Aquarium
"Runnin' Away" by Heather Powell
"Car Cleveland" by John Lurie
"All I Do is Wonder" by D.C. Bloom
"Shores" by Lindsay Ellyn
"It's Too Late to Live in Austin" by Grant Peeples and the Peeples Republik
"Trim Your Tree" by Jimmy Butler
"Samson in New Orleans" by Leonard Cohen
I am thinking about starting a new weekly post or something promoting the #E2TG recommended shows around Nashville each week. I have not decided upon a format or anything, but if you have suggestions or events for consideration, hit me up.
In the meantime, get ready to kick off the last full week before Christmas with a pretty awesome show at The Building in East Nashville tonight. It is Open Road Monday. Doors open at 7:00 with music starting at 8:00. The show features The Western Shore, Sarah Potenza, Darrin Bradbury and Jon Latham. An open mic follows so bring you guitars and songs down and dig it. The BLDG is BYOB or you can cross the patio to Drifter's BBQ and bring something back. The Building is at 1008 #C Woodland Street right behind Drifter's. Come out for some Ear to the Ground recommended musical offerings..
"The Drifting" by The Torn Images
The opening track from the new album by California Indie Rock artist Briand Arabaca aided by some other California Indie rock musicians. Check it out.
"Harmless Sparks" by American Aquarium
I really dig this song off of the album Burn. Flicker. Die. It's been playing quite often on my music player. It may just be my favorite track on this album which is full of great songs.
"Runnin' Away" by Heather Powell
I'm about 90% sure this was a song that I already featured that got added back when I had my playlist delete incident. If so, you may have missed it or like me, you may be very happy to hear it again. This is from Believe it to Life. Her latest album, A Haze of Grays and Blues is due out in early 2015 on the True Groove label out of New York City.
"Car Cleveland" by John Lurie
I am a huge fan of director Jim Jarmusch. This track comes from the Soundtrack of Jarmusch's 1984 film Stranger Than Paradise which stars John Lurie who also wrote the music for the film.
"All I Do is Wonder" by D.C. Bloom
This may well be one of the most beautiful songs I've heard in a long time. It is listed as Unreleased on his ReverbNation page. If this is still the case, I hope it will end up on album soon. In the meantime, head over to his Website and signup.
"Shores" by Lindsay Ellyn
Okay, New York, you better enjoy Lindsay while you have her because Nashville wants her back! I have this feeling (and I am not the only one) that 2015 is going to be a big year for Lindsay. She has new music coming out in the new year, and I've been lucky enough to have heard some of it performed live... get on board the Lindsay express early or else I will tell you that I told you so. This one his from her Shores EP.
"It's Too Late to Live in Austin" by Grant Peeples and the Peeples Republik
Another song that has been coming up fairly often on my music player. A great song that references a midnight show of James McMurtry and his band. Another one from the awesome album, Punishing the Myth.
"Trim Your Tree" by Jimmy Butler
With a hat tip to David Horton (Popa Tunes) we offer up another highly suggestive and inappropriate Christmas song from days of yore. This song from the album, "I'm Gonna Lasso Santa Claus." Mojo Nixon covered this song in the early 90s on his album Horny Holidays.
"Samson in New Orleans" by Leonard Cohen
And we close things out with a song from the latest album from Leonard Cohen - called Popular Problems.
VIDEO PLAYLIST
Saturday, December 13, 2014
A Rare Saturday Night Shuffle - Amazon Music Mix
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"Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor..." (Mozart) by Denis Matthews , Vienna State Opera Orchestra from Big Mozart Box
"Electric Lash" by The Church from Seance
"Effigy" by Urge Overkill from Rock and Roll Submarine
"Summer" by Katie Herzig from Walk Through Walls
"Bright Stars Burning" by Hey Marseilles from Lines We Trace
"Rock n Roll" by Feedtime from Loss Opportunity Sampler/Shovel
"Tree by the River" by Iron and Wine from Kiss Each Other Clean
"Find It" by Family of the Year from Loma Vista
"Divertimento in B-flat Major for 2 Horns and Strings, K.287: IV. Adagio" (Mozart) by English Chamber Orchestra, David Blum conducting from Big Mozart Box
"Lost in My Mind" by The Head and The Heart from The Head and The Heart
I am bored and amped up on caffeine and messing around with a bunch of music I have saved to my Amazon Music Cloud. So here you go.. I'm guessing this is kind of what they call live blogging... so yeah...
"Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor..." (Mozart) by Denis Matthews , Vienna State Opera Orchestra from Big Mozart Box
'cause sometimes I just feel like listening to classical music... is that okay with you?
"Electric Lash" by The Church from Seance
Way back when, I bought this cassette "Survival" Sampler that came in an olive green rations can with handy dandy survival guide liner notes and a bunch of cool music of the day including this one which I have loved ever since.
"Effigy" by Urge Overkill from Rock and Roll Submarine
This was the first single from the band's 2011 album, there first since 1995.
"Summer" by Katie Herzig from Walk Through Walls
Nashville Indie Pop artist Katie Herzig warms a long cold winter with this song about Summer.
"Bright Stars Burning" by Hey Marseilles from Lines We Trace
Orchestral Folk/Pop from Seattle. A jaunty number from their 2013 album which is their most recent.
"Rock n Roll" by Feedtime from Loss Opportunity Sampler/Shovel
Some Australian post-punk rock n roll...from 1987 or so"Well All Right" (Buddy Holly cover) by Kid Rock from Rave On
I hope this is the only Kid Rock song in my collection. Keeping just because it's a Buddy Holly cover... bleh...
"Tree by the River" by Iron and Wine from Kiss Each Other Clean
I can never remember which one is Iron and which one is Wine...
"Find It" by Family of the Year from Loma Vista
Who votes for these things?
"Divertimento in B-flat Major for 2 Horns and Strings, K.287: IV. Adagio" (Mozart) by English Chamber Orchestra, David Blum conducting from Big Mozart Box
What can I say, I am a sucker from cheap classical downloads with tons of music on them...
"Lost in My Mind" by The Head and The Heart from The Head and The Heart
I can never remember which one is The Head and which one is The Heart... oh, I used that joke already... I guess I'm just lost in my mind....
VIDEO FUNTIME SUPER PLAYLIST SHUFFLE THING
Friday, December 12, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Lament Mix
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It's been quite a week of shuffles and the beat goes on... I've been really tired this whole week, so if letters just starts scrolling across the screen as I type this, someone wake me up. We have a good one for youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu... sorry...
It's been quite a week of shuffles and the beat goes on... I've been really tired this whole week, so if letters just starts scrolling across the screen as I type this, someone wake me up. We have a good one for youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu... sorry...
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Doing the Horizontal Mix
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A frustrating morning commute - made all the better by an eclectic ten song shuffle... enjoy...
A frustrating morning commute - made all the better by an eclectic ten song shuffle... enjoy...
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Loot in the Boot Mix
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Hey ho! It's Wednesday. We have a pretty fun shuffle today - 11 songs strong with some real curveballs and some real treats. Scroll down or click through for the music:
Hey ho! It's Wednesday. We have a pretty fun shuffle today - 11 songs strong with some real curveballs and some real treats. Scroll down or click through for the music:
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Carry the Day Mix
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In just nine songs, with just seven different artists represented, we manage to cover a pretty wide range of styles today.... and even spread some Christmas.... er... cheer?????
In just nine songs, with just seven different artists represented, we manage to cover a pretty wide range of styles today.... and even spread some Christmas.... er... cheer?????
Monday, December 8, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Middle Man Mix
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I am more convinced than ever that I did not delete my playlist (as mentioned Friday) through some incredibly bone-headed clumsy ass maneuver. No, it appears that my phone is possessed. My cell phone contract ended in November, and my now two year old phone has developed a mind of it's own. It has begun initiating screen touch activities all on it's own... typing (and sending) gibberish text messages, taking pictures, opening applications, etc. I think it knows that it's days are numbered.
So, until I get a new phone, any activity which comes from me should be suspect. Including this post... am I writing this or is my phone writing this?
I am more convinced than ever that I did not delete my playlist (as mentioned Friday) through some incredibly bone-headed clumsy ass maneuver. No, it appears that my phone is possessed. My cell phone contract ended in November, and my now two year old phone has developed a mind of it's own. It has begun initiating screen touch activities all on it's own... typing (and sending) gibberish text messages, taking pictures, opening applications, etc. I think it knows that it's days are numbered.
So, until I get a new phone, any activity which comes from me should be suspect. Including this post... am I writing this or is my phone writing this?
Friday, December 5, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - No Safe Harbor Mix
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In a moment of extreme clumsiness, I accidently deleted the entire "Current Music" playlist from my phone. Thisis was the continually evolving playlist that I use used to create the morning shuffles you have all come to love so much. I'm not sure how it happened, but as far as I could tell there was no "Undo" button, so I set about to spend a couple of hours attempting to cobble together a new "Current Music" playlist from my memory. I also took advantage of this minor disaster to add some Holiday-themed music to the mix. In the course, I know I forgot some songs (which you will never know about - except that I am telling you) and I am pretty sure I added back some songs that have already been featured (which you will only know about if you have been paying very close attention - in which case, I thank you and beg your patience).
So, the new "Current Music" playlist is a couple of hundred songs short of what I deleted (I will add more as I remember), but I like to think of it as a leaner and meaner playlist. So, behold....
In a moment of extreme clumsiness, I accidently deleted the entire "Current Music" playlist from my phone. This
So, the new "Current Music" playlist is a couple of hundred songs short of what I deleted (I will add more as I remember), but I like to think of it as a leaner and meaner playlist. So, behold....
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - DCCC Mix
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Made it to 800! You are currently reading the 800th post since I transferred the blog from Posterous (RIP) to Blogger. Also, assuming a few of you read this or some other post, Ear to the Ground will reach a milestone number of pageviews (aka one with a bunch of 0's).
It seems appropriate that this milestone (of a sort) post, contains a pretty random shuffle of some cools songs - including artists we've never featured, some old favorites, covers, pop culture references, and more. We do this just about every day.
In honor of post 800, I thought I would attempt to start a new hashtag meme - #twt (three word Thursday).
Made it to 800! You are currently reading the 800th post since I transferred the blog from Posterous (RIP) to Blogger. Also, assuming a few of you read this or some other post, Ear to the Ground will reach a milestone number of pageviews (aka one with a bunch of 0's).
It seems appropriate that this milestone (of a sort) post, contains a pretty random shuffle of some cools songs - including artists we've never featured, some old favorites, covers, pop culture references, and more. We do this just about every day.
In honor of post 800, I thought I would attempt to start a new hashtag meme - #twt (three word Thursday).
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Girl in Me Mix
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ICYMI - be sure to read my review of Deena's album Rock River.
Today's shuffle could have been subtitled "My Ever Changing Shuffle"... just saying
ICYMI - be sure to read my review of Deena's album Rock River.
Today's shuffle could have been subtitled "My Ever Changing Shuffle"... just saying
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Deena - Rock River (Ear to the Ground Review)
Bloggers note: I wrote this review a couple of months ago - already long past when the album was released and too long after I received it. I saved it, looking for the right time to post it, but you know what. There isn't a right time. I just re-read what I wrote and it's all true (as I see it). So, late-ish on a Tuesday night in early December, I am posting this and I will post links on my Facebook and all that, and I really hope you read it, but more importantly, I hope you will give this record a listen.
Ear to the Ground reviews Rock River the most recent album by Deena.
Review after the jump.
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Full Grown Man Mix
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In the middle of posting this, I heard about the passing of Rock and Roll legend Bobby Keys. The long-time Rolling Stones saxophonist was a resident of Nashville at the time of his passing, and I had the great pleasure of seeing him and his band play a free lunch time show at the downtown Public Library in the summer of 2013. RIP Bobby Keys...
In the middle of posting this, I heard about the passing of Rock and Roll legend Bobby Keys. The long-time Rolling Stones saxophonist was a resident of Nashville at the time of his passing, and I had the great pleasure of seeing him and his band play a free lunch time show at the downtown Public Library in the summer of 2013. RIP Bobby Keys...
Monday, December 1, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Burn Thru Mix
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We are back after an extended holiday break... hope everyone is well.. I am short on time today, so let's jump into the shuffle...
We are back after an extended holiday break... hope everyone is well.. I am short on time today, so let's jump into the shuffle...
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Gratitude Mix
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Short and Sweet.In spite of Because of all of the difficulties of this year, I am more aware than ever of the reasons I have to be grateful. In a randomly shuffled way - that will be my focus today....
Short and Sweet.
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Pitch Black Mix
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As with many people, my mind is consumed with thoughts of what has happened and is happening in Ferguson, Missouri and what it says about us as a nation - as human beings.... I am not one of those who thinks he has all the answers... in fact there are just a few things I think I know.... repeated and systemic injustice creates situations where violence flourishes. Violence and Hate are never the answer. Peace and Love always are the answer. Justice must proceed peace. We are one world and one people. We really need to work on losing this idea of them vs. us.
Coincidently, we begin today's random shuffle with a cover of Gil Scott-Heron song, but not the one I've seen others posting today...
As with many people, my mind is consumed with thoughts of what has happened and is happening in Ferguson, Missouri and what it says about us as a nation - as human beings.... I am not one of those who thinks he has all the answers... in fact there are just a few things I think I know.... repeated and systemic injustice creates situations where violence flourishes. Violence and Hate are never the answer. Peace and Love always are the answer. Justice must proceed peace. We are one world and one people. We really need to work on losing this idea of them vs. us.
Coincidently, we begin today's random shuffle with a cover of Gil Scott-Heron song, but not the one I've seen others posting today...
Monday, November 24, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Mister Jarmusch Mix
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The first of only three shuffles this week before I head off for Thanksgiving. We have to cover as much ground as we can in a short time... We begin with a relatively short (7 song) shuffle that manages to cover a wide range - geographically, musically, lyrically, and thematically.
The first of only three shuffles this week before I head off for Thanksgiving. We have to cover as much ground as we can in a short time... We begin with a relatively short (7 song) shuffle that manages to cover a wide range - geographically, musically, lyrically, and thematically.
Friday, November 21, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Live My Life Mix
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So another week of Ear to the Ground Shuffles comes to a close. I am a bit short on time so I thought I would try something... a 3 Words post. I will attempt to comment on each song using just three words. This may be more time consuming than writing a long post, but here goes nothing...
Have a great weekend!
So another week of Ear to the Ground Shuffles comes to a close. I am a bit short on time so I thought I would try something... a 3 Words post. I will attempt to comment on each song using just three words. This may be more time consuming than writing a long post, but here goes nothing...
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Anarchy in the Shuffle Mix
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Ear to the Ground doesn't follow rules - not even our own rules. Does that make us anarchists?
Ear to the Ground doesn't follow rules - not even our own rules. Does that make us anarchists?
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Roots Reality Mix
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I had the great pleasure last night of venturing to one my favorite spots in East Nashville - The Family Wash for their regular Tuesday night Short Sets, and I got to see Joe Nolan perform. He has been featured a couple of times recently here at E2TG, and it was great to hear him play live and to finally meet him in person...
Due to some unforeseen and unfortunate events, I am shorter than usual on time for today's shuffle... So let's do what we can with what we have to work with... a stunningly diverse and awesome shuffle today...
I had the great pleasure last night of venturing to one my favorite spots in East Nashville - The Family Wash for their regular Tuesday night Short Sets, and I got to see Joe Nolan perform. He has been featured a couple of times recently here at E2TG, and it was great to hear him play live and to finally meet him in person...
Due to some unforeseen and unfortunate events, I am shorter than usual on time for today's shuffle... So let's do what we can with what we have to work with... a stunningly diverse and awesome shuffle today...
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Yacht Mix
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Last week, one of the daily shuffles was heavily weighted toward Blues music. Today, things turn more in a Country direction. Of course this is Ear to the Ground, so it's never cut and dry...
Last week, one of the daily shuffles was heavily weighted toward Blues music. Today, things turn more in a Country direction. Of course this is Ear to the Ground, so it's never cut and dry...
Monday, November 17, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Jack Chick vs. Twin Peaks with a Twist Mix
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I had a great night hanging out with a bunch of friends at a venerated Music Row bar and watching about a dozen or more of those friends make awesome music....
We have a delightful shuffle today with some cool songs and some cool pop culture references. The shuffle contains old and new music of differing genres and points of view all existing in some semblance of harmony on my phone's music player. If these songs can all keep along, why can't we?
I had a great night hanging out with a bunch of friends at a venerated Music Row bar and watching about a dozen or more of those friends make awesome music....
We have a delightful shuffle today with some cool songs and some cool pop culture references. The shuffle contains old and new music of differing genres and points of view all existing in some semblance of harmony on my phone's music player. If these songs can all keep along, why can't we?
Friday, November 14, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Hollerin' Mix
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First things first: The Grey A have a brand new video for their timely song "Dumb Fool". It's a fun film noir style video which includes our old friend Howard Rabach pounding on a table. Check it out here:
Second of all, I had a great time seeing Darrin Bradbury and The Fran's Eastside Super-High Band deliver a stellar set at The 5 Spot last night.
Careful readers will recall that back in September yours truly had two reviews featured on the No Depression website. One was for The Grey A's album My Country and the other was for Darrin Bradbury's album Motel Oatmeal.
Now there is another coincidental connection between the two - if you look at picture above, at the extreme right of the picture - kind of in the shadows on the picture is Trombone player Diego Vasquez who joined the Super-High band last night and also played with The Grey A when I saw them at The Stone Fox (and played on The Grey A album I believe).
Finally, I need to announce that there are big, big things in store for #E2TG in the coming new year. (Translation: I am basically punting the last month and a half of 2014 so expect nothing from me until after New Years by which time I hope you will have forgotten that I promised "big, big things")
Seriously, the Shuffles will continue unabated... well mostly unabated.... well just somewhat abated... well at least occasionally unabated...
First things first: The Grey A have a brand new video for their timely song "Dumb Fool". It's a fun film noir style video which includes our old friend Howard Rabach pounding on a table. Check it out here:
Second of all, I had a great time seeing Darrin Bradbury and The Fran's Eastside Super-High Band deliver a stellar set at The 5 Spot last night.
Careful readers will recall that back in September yours truly had two reviews featured on the No Depression website. One was for The Grey A's album My Country and the other was for Darrin Bradbury's album Motel Oatmeal.
Now there is another coincidental connection between the two - if you look at picture above, at the extreme right of the picture - kind of in the shadows on the picture is Trombone player Diego Vasquez who joined the Super-High band last night and also played with The Grey A when I saw them at The Stone Fox (and played on The Grey A album I believe).
Finally, I need to announce that there are big, big things in store for #E2TG in the coming new year. (Translation: I am basically punting the last month and a half of 2014 so expect nothing from me until after New Years by which time I hope you will have forgotten that I promised "big, big things")
Seriously, the Shuffles will continue unabated... well mostly unabated.... well just somewhat abated... well at least occasionally unabated...
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - This is the Blues Mix
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Nashville - come out tonight to The Five Spot in East Nashville at 9:00pm for an awesome show. The Harmed Brothers, Charlie and the Foxtrots, and #E2TG favorite Darrin Bradbury who will be backed by the star-studded (and stud-starred) Fran's Eastside Super-High Band!
Apologies to Tim Carroll (who by the way is part of the aforementioned Super-High Band) for appropriating the title of one of his songs for the subtitle of today's shuffle. The song isn't in the shuffle, but it came to my find, when I heard the high concentration of Blues numbers in the first part of this morning's shuffle.
Shuffle Up!
Nashville - come out tonight to The Five Spot in East Nashville at 9:00pm for an awesome show. The Harmed Brothers, Charlie and the Foxtrots, and #E2TG favorite Darrin Bradbury who will be backed by the star-studded (and stud-starred) Fran's Eastside Super-High Band!
Apologies to Tim Carroll (who by the way is part of the aforementioned Super-High Band) for appropriating the title of one of his songs for the subtitle of today's shuffle. The song isn't in the shuffle, but it came to my find, when I heard the high concentration of Blues numbers in the first part of this morning's shuffle.
Shuffle Up!
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Takes Brains Mix
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Back at you with another shuffle after a day off. Made it to four different venues last night to see friends play music. Two downtown, two on the eastside. Heard a couple of great songwriter circles - one with Taylor Alexander of the band Young America and one with Lindsay Ellyn. Hustled to the East Nashville - Logue's Black Raven Speakeasy to catch the last part of Amelia White's set and a moving set from the incomparable Julie Christensen, and then drove a few block down Gallatin Pike to catch the tail end of a set from Darrin Bradbury and the Fran's Eastside Super-High Band (Tim Carroll, Cameron Carrus, and David Strayer). As Lindsay said, the hustle is real...
Today's shuffle is long on great music, but I am short on time... so check it out, google if you need to and enjoy our little video approximation.
Back at you with another shuffle after a day off. Made it to four different venues last night to see friends play music. Two downtown, two on the eastside. Heard a couple of great songwriter circles - one with Taylor Alexander of the band Young America and one with Lindsay Ellyn. Hustled to the East Nashville - Logue's Black Raven Speakeasy to catch the last part of Amelia White's set and a moving set from the incomparable Julie Christensen, and then drove a few block down Gallatin Pike to catch the tail end of a set from Darrin Bradbury and the Fran's Eastside Super-High Band (Tim Carroll, Cameron Carrus, and David Strayer). As Lindsay said, the hustle is real...
Today's shuffle is long on great music, but I am short on time... so check it out, google if you need to and enjoy our little video approximation.
Monday, November 10, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Handle With Care Mix
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Monday. And we have another shuffle that demonstrates many of the best qualities of what makes our daily shuffles so special (and they are special....) - we have a collection of excellent songs - a few mini-almost-themes running through some of the songs, a fairly diverse collection of styles but nothing terribly extreme (by our standards). Let's do it!
Monday. And we have another shuffle that demonstrates many of the best qualities of what makes our daily shuffles so special (and they are special....) - we have a collection of excellent songs - a few mini-almost-themes running through some of the songs, a fairly diverse collection of styles but nothing terribly extreme (by our standards). Let's do it!
Friday, November 7, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Wild Winnebago Mix
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Had a good time at The Western Shore CD Release party thing last night. Charlie and Kalee sounded great, the right-wrong Isaac was awesome, and it is always a great joy to see and hear Aaron Lee Tasjan.
Well, we made it to Friday, and I think I am still breathing, so that has to be a good sign.
Had a good time at The Western Shore CD Release party thing last night. Charlie and Kalee sounded great, the right-wrong Isaac was awesome, and it is always a great joy to see and hear Aaron Lee Tasjan.
Well, we made it to Friday, and I think I am still breathing, so that has to be a good sign.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Slow Drive Mix
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Okay... I'm tired - physically and emotionally drained, but I got a shuffle and it's a good one... so let's do this thing!
Okay... I'm tired - physically and emotionally drained, but I got a shuffle and it's a good one... so let's do this thing!
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Ice Cream, Candy, Balloons, and Magicians Mix
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Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Mystery Train Mix
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I realize that I have a music problem, but there are far worse problems to have... I know because I've had those, too. Music, though, man! Music has this amazing ability to make you forget your problems or remind you that you are not alone with your problems or just to make you feel good for the 3 minutes or so that the song goes on. Music also has brought me together with some amazing people.
Today, we have a most excellent shuffle which has helped me through a not so excellent morning.... Now, I want to share it with you...
I realize that I have a music problem, but there are far worse problems to have... I know because I've had those, too. Music, though, man! Music has this amazing ability to make you forget your problems or remind you that you are not alone with your problems or just to make you feel good for the 3 minutes or so that the song goes on. Music also has brought me together with some amazing people.
Today, we have a most excellent shuffle which has helped me through a not so excellent morning.... Now, I want to share it with you...
Monday, November 3, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - What's He Building? Mix
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Time to ease into a new week, a new month, and for some of us a new time structure - as Daylight Savings Time ends and Standard Time begins. It's Monday... Let's do this shuffle thing...
Time to ease into a new week, a new month, and for some of us a new time structure - as Daylight Savings Time ends and Standard Time begins. It's Monday... Let's do this shuffle thing...
Friday, October 31, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Cobwebs and Twisted Dry Bones Mix
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So... for those who love Halloween, you will notice the way I mashed up some song titles from today's shuffle into a Halloweeny sounding "Cobwebs and Twisted Dry Bones" subtitle for this shuffle. For those who dislike Halloween, there are no real Halloween-themed songs in this shuffle.
Boo!
So... for those who love Halloween, you will notice the way I mashed up some song titles from today's shuffle into a Halloweeny sounding "Cobwebs and Twisted Dry Bones" subtitle for this shuffle. For those who dislike Halloween, there are no real Halloween-themed songs in this shuffle.
Boo!
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Potential Energy Mix
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Okay pre-writing disclaimer... I'm just not feeling particularly verbose today. So, expect some short, sharp comments... but who knows what will happen when I get started... What's fun about the randomness of the shuffle process is that it often does far better than I ever could arranging a fine mixture of divergent tunes into a pattern which at once defies and expands the conscious minds ability to understand the complexity of music as a part of human interactions. Did I say, I wasn't feeling verbose? Oh well....
Okay pre-writing disclaimer... I'm just not feeling particularly verbose today. So, expect some short, sharp comments... but who knows what will happen when I get started... What's fun about the randomness of the shuffle process is that it often does far better than I ever could arranging a fine mixture of divergent tunes into a pattern which at once defies and expands the conscious minds ability to understand the complexity of music as a part of human interactions. Did I say, I wasn't feeling verbose? Oh well....
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Protective Leather Skin Mix
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Let's see.... So apparently, Foo Fighters are playing at The Ryman on Halloween.
Last night, I got hang out with some awesome songwriters and talk music and the movie Road House, plus hear some of them do what they do best. I also hopped over to the Mercy Lounge to finally see Dogs of Oz live. They were awesome, and I hope to see a longer set from them soon. Here is a picture.
Let's get to the shuffle -
Let's see.... So apparently, Foo Fighters are playing at The Ryman on Halloween.
Last night, I got hang out with some awesome songwriters and talk music and the movie Road House, plus hear some of them do what they do best. I also hopped over to the Mercy Lounge to finally see Dogs of Oz live. They were awesome, and I hope to see a longer set from them soon. Here is a picture.
Let's get to the shuffle -
Monday, October 27, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Working Up a Sweat Mix
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I need to give some credit where it is due.... About a year and a half ago, based upon a suggestion from the enigmatic and amazing The Danbury Lie, I began compiling a daily Video playlist based upon my daily shuffle. Before that I just posted videos with the song, but my hope was to create an easier listening experience.
Now, due to the newishness and/or obscurity of some of the music I feature - as well as the vagrancies of what is available on You Tube, sometimes I can find the exact song, sometimes I can find a different song from the same artist or a different version of the same song, and sometimes I just have to punt.
Anyway, I mention this today because many of videos in the playlist today are not the exact song I listened to during my morning commute. It's still a fine video playlist, and I hope you like it.
I should also say that we don't really do theme shuffles here at #E2TG - we used to, but whatever... still by the laws of randomness and selective playlist creation, we do have some Halloween themed songs...
Shall we...
I need to give some credit where it is due.... About a year and a half ago, based upon a suggestion from the enigmatic and amazing The Danbury Lie, I began compiling a daily Video playlist based upon my daily shuffle. Before that I just posted videos with the song, but my hope was to create an easier listening experience.
Now, due to the newishness and/or obscurity of some of the music I feature - as well as the vagrancies of what is available on You Tube, sometimes I can find the exact song, sometimes I can find a different song from the same artist or a different version of the same song, and sometimes I just have to punt.
Anyway, I mention this today because many of videos in the playlist today are not the exact song I listened to during my morning commute. It's still a fine video playlist, and I hope you like it.
I should also say that we don't really do theme shuffles here at #E2TG - we used to, but whatever... still by the laws of randomness and selective playlist creation, we do have some Halloween themed songs...
Shall we...
Friday, October 24, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Your VooDoo Mix
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If you haven't already, please go "Like" the Ear to the Ground: A Music Blog - Facebook Page. And then like, comment, and share to keep all the fun posts coming to your news feed. Like last need, we cleared out the 10 oldest songs from our active playlist via a Facebook-only posting frenzy. It was fun.
Now, it's Friday and we have a shuffle to end all shuffles (for the week)...
If you haven't already, please go "Like" the Ear to the Ground: A Music Blog - Facebook Page. And then like, comment, and share to keep all the fun posts coming to your news feed. Like last need, we cleared out the 10 oldest songs from our active playlist via a Facebook-only posting frenzy. It was fun.
Now, it's Friday and we have a shuffle to end all shuffles (for the week)...
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Fool Who Knows Mix
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Of late, one of the musical highlights of my week has been the Wednesday night Tim Carroll/Darrin Bradbury extravaganza at Fran's Eastside Tavern. Just having the opportunity to see this two talents in a casual/laid back setting has been amazing, and it has been fun to see this thing grow into a bit of a happening. If you live near Nashville and can stay up late and handle a whole lot of smoke, you should come out. Last night, those who showed up and stuck around were treated to the added bonus of a short set from David Dondero - who NPR's All Songs Considered called one of the best living songwriters. I can tell you based on what I heard, they were not exaggerating in the least.
On to the shuffle---
Of late, one of the musical highlights of my week has been the Wednesday night Tim Carroll/Darrin Bradbury extravaganza at Fran's Eastside Tavern. Just having the opportunity to see this two talents in a casual/laid back setting has been amazing, and it has been fun to see this thing grow into a bit of a happening. If you live near Nashville and can stay up late and handle a whole lot of smoke, you should come out. Last night, those who showed up and stuck around were treated to the added bonus of a short set from David Dondero - who NPR's All Songs Considered called one of the best living songwriters. I can tell you based on what I heard, they were not exaggerating in the least.
On to the shuffle---
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - The Unanswered Mix
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I discovered that there is another music blog out there called Ear to the Ground. I really don't have a problem with this... I mean for all I know they are perfectly decent folks who write about perfectly decent music. I do worry about my readers getting confused, so as a public self-service, I would like to use today's shuffle as handy guide how to tell #E2TG from any other blogs with similar sounding names.
I discovered that there is another music blog out there called Ear to the Ground. I really don't have a problem with this... I mean for all I know they are perfectly decent folks who write about perfectly decent music. I do worry about my readers getting confused, so as a public self-service, I would like to use today's shuffle as handy guide how to tell #E2TG from any other blogs with similar sounding names.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Monday, October 20, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Shorter Days Mix
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Welcome to Monday. Had a great weekend, and now it's time to face up to another work week. Here is a fine, fine collection of music graciously presented by my cell phone's music player on "Shuffle" mode. A video representation of the shuffle is presented at end of the post...
Welcome to Monday. Had a great weekend, and now it's time to face up to another work week. Here is a fine, fine collection of music graciously presented by my cell phone's music player on "Shuffle" mode. A video representation of the shuffle is presented at end of the post...
Friday, October 17, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - What I Do Mix
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It's Friday! Good time at Year of October's Nashville CD Release show for their new album Golden Days. You can check it out and purchase HERE !
Let's close out this work week in proper fashion with a nifty shuffle filled with cool tunes:
It's Friday! Good time at Year of October's Nashville CD Release show for their new album Golden Days. You can check it out and purchase HERE !
Let's close out this work week in proper fashion with a nifty shuffle filled with cool tunes:
Thursday, October 16, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Muddy Water Mix
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Last night, I made my weekly pilgrimage to Fran's Eastside Tavern on a rainy Wednesday night in East Nashville. Fran's on Wednesday is a bit hard to explain unless you've been there (and maybe even if you have). I haven't been to Fran's on any other night, so I am not able to say anything about those other nights. Just to keep in simple, Fran's is a dive bar, smoky beyond ever what you might expect from a dive bar, with cheap beer (cash only), regulars, a pool table, and the added tension of being in the midst of the East Nashville "scene". Most Wednesday nights, it is Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury holding court with original songs and a wildly unpredictable nature that has included a world-class trombone player, a Christmas Carole in early October, and the Music City Roots bus. With Tim Carroll on tour, Zachariah Red filled in last night - not an easy task - not an easy gig. Having missed much of Zach's set the last time I went to see him (it may or may not have involved my keys getting locked in my van) and having heard his demo EP, I was looking forward to this.
As I listened, the words understated brilliance came to my mind. But, I think it is more unassuming brilliance. A quiet personality - a calm, smooth delivery - definitely enjoyable. I don't know if this will make sense to anyone but me, but when Zach sang a Kris Kristofferson song, it came to me. When Kristofferson sang with the Highwaymen - Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson were such larger than life figures with legendary figures with such storied reputations for hard living... and it was not that Kristofferson wasn't larger than life and it wasn't that he didn't live just as hard... but relatively, he seemed unassuming to me. And, that is how I feel about Zachariah Red. His original songs are awesome and the brilliance hits you in subtle waves rather than in a massive attack.
And Darrin Bradbury... what can I say - it is fun to watch this amazingly talented guy really hit a stride and start to get some well-deserved recognition.
To the shuffle:
Last night, I made my weekly pilgrimage to Fran's Eastside Tavern on a rainy Wednesday night in East Nashville. Fran's on Wednesday is a bit hard to explain unless you've been there (and maybe even if you have). I haven't been to Fran's on any other night, so I am not able to say anything about those other nights. Just to keep in simple, Fran's is a dive bar, smoky beyond ever what you might expect from a dive bar, with cheap beer (cash only), regulars, a pool table, and the added tension of being in the midst of the East Nashville "scene". Most Wednesday nights, it is Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury holding court with original songs and a wildly unpredictable nature that has included a world-class trombone player, a Christmas Carole in early October, and the Music City Roots bus. With Tim Carroll on tour, Zachariah Red filled in last night - not an easy task - not an easy gig. Having missed much of Zach's set the last time I went to see him (it may or may not have involved my keys getting locked in my van) and having heard his demo EP, I was looking forward to this.
As I listened, the words understated brilliance came to my mind. But, I think it is more unassuming brilliance. A quiet personality - a calm, smooth delivery - definitely enjoyable. I don't know if this will make sense to anyone but me, but when Zach sang a Kris Kristofferson song, it came to me. When Kristofferson sang with the Highwaymen - Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson were such larger than life figures with legendary figures with such storied reputations for hard living... and it was not that Kristofferson wasn't larger than life and it wasn't that he didn't live just as hard... but relatively, he seemed unassuming to me. And, that is how I feel about Zachariah Red. His original songs are awesome and the brilliance hits you in subtle waves rather than in a massive attack.
And Darrin Bradbury... what can I say - it is fun to watch this amazingly talented guy really hit a stride and start to get some well-deserved recognition.
To the shuffle:
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Danglin' Mix
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Yet another rainy morning in Music City USA - home of the Ear to the Ground Morning Shuffle (patent pending but not really) and some other music related stuff, I guess... ;-)
Yet another rainy morning in Music City USA - home of the Ear to the Ground Morning Shuffle (patent pending but not really) and some other music related stuff, I guess... ;-)
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Mixed Up, Muddled Up, Shook Up Mix
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It's been dreary few days in Nashville, and my mood has matched the weather. Music always helps... Here is today's dose...
It's been dreary few days in Nashville, and my mood has matched the weather. Music always helps... Here is today's dose...
Monday, October 13, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Ain't Nobody Mix
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We are back on a rainy/overcast Monday morning here in Nashville with a short, but sweet mix of songs to get you through...
Click through the jump to the Shuffle
We are back on a rainy/overcast Monday morning here in Nashville with a short, but sweet mix of songs to get you through...
Click through the jump to the Shuffle
Friday, October 10, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Lost Some Kindness Mix
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Well - we made it through another week of shuffles. Let's blow it out and go out and live our weekends... shall we?
Shuffle comes next:
Well - we made it through another week of shuffles. Let's blow it out and go out and live our weekends... shall we?
Shuffle comes next:
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Smoke and Yard Sales Mix
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When you find yourself smiling at the improbability of your circumstance, you know that despite everything that may be wrong in the world and in your world, that at least for that moment everything is okay. For me, those moments seem often to be connected to music....
Click below to get to the shuffle (if required):
When you find yourself smiling at the improbability of your circumstance, you know that despite everything that may be wrong in the world and in your world, that at least for that moment everything is okay. For me, those moments seem often to be connected to music....
Click below to get to the shuffle (if required):
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Turtles, Roses, and Kisses Mix
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I failed to post a shuffle yesterday - I listened to a shuffle and it was a good one, but time didn't allow me to post - so the songs go back into the hopper and will come out in some other interesting combination.
Truth be told - life is unpredictable and pretty darn right amazing when you stop to pay attention to the seemingly random occurrences which are going on around you every day. Truth be told - I would never have placed my self voluntarily in the situation in which I currently find myself, but since I'm here... I have to say.... I'm right in the place that I am supposed to be...
A pretty sweet evening/night of music on both side of the river in Nashville on a Tuesday in October. Saw a song swap featuring two of my musical heroes from my college days - Bill Lloyd and Webb Wilder along with the always amazing Tim Carroll.
Crossed the river for some Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie and a Pint of fine beer to check out some amazing music including: Drew Kohl, Julie Christensen and her band, and the Dan Montgomery Band.
Let's do this shuffle thing - okay?
I failed to post a shuffle yesterday - I listened to a shuffle and it was a good one, but time didn't allow me to post - so the songs go back into the hopper and will come out in some other interesting combination.
Truth be told - life is unpredictable and pretty darn right amazing when you stop to pay attention to the seemingly random occurrences which are going on around you every day. Truth be told - I would never have placed my self voluntarily in the situation in which I currently find myself, but since I'm here... I have to say.... I'm right in the place that I am supposed to be...
A pretty sweet evening/night of music on both side of the river in Nashville on a Tuesday in October. Saw a song swap featuring two of my musical heroes from my college days - Bill Lloyd and Webb Wilder along with the always amazing Tim Carroll.
Crossed the river for some Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie and a Pint of fine beer to check out some amazing music including: Drew Kohl, Julie Christensen and her band, and the Dan Montgomery Band.
Let's do this shuffle thing - okay?
Monday, October 6, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Egg Cream Mix
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Some days, I like to provide a detailed and creative commentary of the connections which exist between seeming unconnected songs. Some times, though, I just like to let these songs sit together awkwardly at the table while I sit back with a conspiratorial smile on my face (even then I have no co-conspirator). Today seems like a good time for the latter.... enjoy the awkwardness, but remember that the connections exist even if we cannot see them....
Some days, I like to provide a detailed and creative commentary of the connections which exist between seeming unconnected songs. Some times, though, I just like to let these songs sit together awkwardly at the table while I sit back with a conspiratorial smile on my face (even then I have no co-conspirator). Today seems like a good time for the latter.... enjoy the awkwardness, but remember that the connections exist even if we cannot see them....
Friday, October 3, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle* - All Lies Mix
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*DISCLAIMER* This post is being written on Thursday night - I listened to the songs on my way home from work. Tomorrow promises to be a crazy/difficult day, and I'm not sure when I am going to post this, but I wanted to have it ready,,,,
*FURTHER DISCLAIMER* Also, I discovered that part way through the shuffle, the shuffle function got turned off so a part of this so-called shuffle was actually not a shuffle. I know. What can you believe in any more. It's all lies...
Actually, all lies are in the title. What follows is the truth - as I see it...
*DISCLAIMER* This post is being written on Thursday night - I listened to the songs on my way home from work. Tomorrow promises to be a crazy/difficult day, and I'm not sure when I am going to post this, but I wanted to have it ready,,,,
*FURTHER DISCLAIMER* Also, I discovered that part way through the shuffle, the shuffle function got turned off so a part of this so-called shuffle was actually not a shuffle. I know. What can you believe in any more. It's all lies...
Actually, all lies are in the title. What follows is the truth - as I see it...
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Searchlight Sneeze Mix
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Last night was another typical night in East Nashville - I heard an Americana artist who likes death metal and Taylor Swift (the awesome Todd Farrell), a folk song about Lynard Skynard and Van Halen (by the amazing Aaron Lee Tasjan), plus a stirring post-midnight rendition of "Silver Bells" via Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury.
Our shuffle today offers a stunning departure from the norm.... not that we really have a norm here at Ear to the Ground, but we do have a lot of new (to us) music. It's a short shuffle in terms of songs (two 7:00+ minute songs will do that), and we have two instrumentals. Shall we?
Last night was another typical night in East Nashville - I heard an Americana artist who likes death metal and Taylor Swift (the awesome Todd Farrell), a folk song about Lynard Skynard and Van Halen (by the amazing Aaron Lee Tasjan), plus a stirring post-midnight rendition of "Silver Bells" via Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury.
Our shuffle today offers a stunning departure from the norm.... not that we really have a norm here at Ear to the Ground, but we do have a lot of new (to us) music. It's a short shuffle in terms of songs (two 7:00+ minute songs will do that), and we have two instrumentals. Shall we?
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Puppies, Vultures, and Jackals Mix
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Details to follow:
We try to cover as much as we can in our all too brief time together... Today our shuffle begins with a Hall and Oates cover, heads to a Top Peoples Health Farm, a cover of a 80s New Wave song by an 80s Punk band, some of the minor lakes of Wisconsin, a prelude, some words of wisdom (and a barn with six red stripes), some Nashville-based ska-core music from Built for BBQ, a love story straight from a shitty motel room in New Orleans, a song about Tibetan sites for above ground putrefaction of human remains as a place of spiritual practice, some early period Style Council, and a song about Fast Cars by one of my new favorite Nashville songwriters.
Details to follow:
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Tuesday Afternoon Music Shuffle - Faraway Beach Mix
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Weird morning, got stuck in traffic so my Morning Shuffle would have been about 24 songs. So, I did an afternoon shuffle instead. The morning shuffle would have been epic, but I don't have time or energy to do it justice.
Here we go....
Weird morning, got stuck in traffic so my Morning Shuffle would have been about 24 songs. So, I did an afternoon shuffle instead. The morning shuffle would have been epic, but I don't have time or energy to do it justice.
Here we go....
Monday, September 29, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle -Saints and Monks Mix
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"Nikola Tesla perceived the earth to be a conductor of acoustical resonance." - Jack White from Coffee and Cigarettes a film by Jim Jarmusch
Watched two Jarmusch films this weekend plus made some good progress on my novel-in-progress.
We have a nifty shuffle for your Monday!
"Nikola Tesla perceived the earth to be a conductor of acoustical resonance." - Jack White from Coffee and Cigarettes a film by Jim Jarmusch
Watched two Jarmusch films this weekend plus made some good progress on my novel-in-progress.
We have a nifty shuffle for your Monday!
Friday, September 26, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Atomic Love Mix
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And we put another week of shuffles into the books... There is a lot of life out there, go and get you some... life that is...
And we put another week of shuffles into the books... There is a lot of life out there, go and get you some... life that is...
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Don't be Koi Mix
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All I can say is that life is probable sometimes, and although we don't always choose the things that happen (or maybe in some ways we do), what we do choose is whether or not to be fully present in those moments (to the best of our ability).
All I can say is that life is probable sometimes, and although we don't always choose the things that happen (or maybe in some ways we do), what we do choose is whether or not to be fully present in those moments (to the best of our ability).
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Silly Boys Mix
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We have a bunch of cool songs by some silly boys and one not so silly, but very talented woman. Let's go!
We have a bunch of cool songs by some silly boys and one not so silly, but very talented woman. Let's go!
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - High Hopes Mix
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FALL IS HERE! Not only that, there was an honest to goodness chill in the air this morning. Now, I've lived in Tennessee my whole like, so I know that we still have a few more rounds of heat to go, but today it is officially Autumn, and it feels like it so...
MUSIC
FALL IS HERE! Not only that, there was an honest to goodness chill in the air this morning. Now, I've lived in Tennessee my whole like, so I know that we still have a few more rounds of heat to go, but today it is officially Autumn, and it feels like it so...
MUSIC
Monday, September 22, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Fight the World Mix
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So, Americana Music Fest week is over, and Nashville can go back to being this cool city with live music happening every single night all over town.... Even with being an official attendee at AMA, I managed to see some amazing music, saw a bunch of old friends, made some new friends, and discovered some new music which will be showing up on E2TG soon...
More pics and commentary coming up.
Let's shuffle...
So, Americana Music Fest week is over, and Nashville can go back to being this cool city with live music happening every single night all over town.... Even with being an official attendee at AMA, I managed to see some amazing music, saw a bunch of old friends, made some new friends, and discovered some new music which will be showing up on E2TG soon...
The End Men @ The Basement 9/21/2014
More pics and commentary coming up.
Let's shuffle...
Friday, September 19, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Addicted to War Mix
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Last night was so much fun... Went to the Rocking Roots Guitar Showcase at The 5 Spot. Four trios lead by incredible guitarists. Nick Kane, Richie Owens with the Farm Bureau, Ted Drozdowski with his Scissormen, and Mark Robinson. Great players with distinct and unique styles falling into the blues/roots area if labels mean much. All of them were mind-blowingly awesome in very different ways.
After that showcase, I stuck around to see a long-time favorite of Ear to the Ground, Pony Boy. She was a Featured Artist in August 2012, and since then she has spent some time in Nashville, had a song featured on the ABC show named after our fair city, and last night she played a bunch of Nashville's hottest players. The qualities which first lead me to her music were all present - an amazing voice, great songs (the originals and covers), and a great stage presence. It was good to finally meet her.
Let's jump into the shuffle:
Last night was so much fun... Went to the Rocking Roots Guitar Showcase at The 5 Spot. Four trios lead by incredible guitarists. Nick Kane, Richie Owens with the Farm Bureau, Ted Drozdowski with his Scissormen, and Mark Robinson. Great players with distinct and unique styles falling into the blues/roots area if labels mean much. All of them were mind-blowingly awesome in very different ways.
Ted Drozdowski getting up close and personal at The 5 Spot
After that showcase, I stuck around to see a long-time favorite of Ear to the Ground, Pony Boy. She was a Featured Artist in August 2012, and since then she has spent some time in Nashville, had a song featured on the ABC show named after our fair city, and last night she played a bunch of Nashville's hottest players. The qualities which first lead me to her music were all present - an amazing voice, great songs (the originals and covers), and a great stage presence. It was good to finally meet her.
Let's jump into the shuffle:
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Gallatin Pike Mule Mix
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It is axiomatic that on any given night, if you go hear live music in Nashville - no matter how epically awesome your experience - there is something equally epic and awesome going on either next door or across town. This is even more true - if something axiomatic can be "more" true during Americana Fest week which is going on now. I just added a corollary to this axiom (Can an axiom have a corollary? Can it have a coronary?), which states that if you hang out in the same smoky dive bar in East Nashville long enough you will hear "Freebird" accompanied by a trombone and it will be amazing.
Tonight - E2TG favorite Mark Robinson joins an amazing line-up of Rocking Roots Guitarists at The Five Spot from 5-8pm. At 8:00 - another E2TG favorite - Pony Boy will be leading off a Five Spot Favorites show at that same location. And it goes on...
It is axiomatic that on any given night, if you go hear live music in Nashville - no matter how epically awesome your experience - there is something equally epic and awesome going on either next door or across town. This is even more true - if something axiomatic can be "more" true during Americana Fest week which is going on now. I just added a corollary to this axiom (Can an axiom have a corollary? Can it have a coronary?), which states that if you hang out in the same smoky dive bar in East Nashville long enough you will hear "Freebird" accompanied by a trombone and it will be amazing.
Tonight - E2TG favorite Mark Robinson joins an amazing line-up of Rocking Roots Guitarists at The Five Spot from 5-8pm. At 8:00 - another E2TG favorite - Pony Boy will be leading off a Five Spot Favorites show at that same location. And it goes on...
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Friday, Saturday, and XTC Mix
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Well Americana Music Association week in kicking into high gear here in Nashville. So many incredible musicians in town, official and unofficial showcases and shows and whatnot everywhere you go. Music that represents the pretty diverse collection of genres and subgenres that fall loosely or tightly under the big Americana umbrella... "It's a big enough umbrella, but it's always me who ends up getting wet."
Forever, swimming against the wind or pissing into the stream or whatever, Ear to the Ground presents a shuffle which includes some 1950s Portuguese Fado music, some 1970s Afro-jazz from Nigeria, a 90s lo-fi band from Olympia Washington, some awesome alternative, jazz, funk, electronic music from Philly, a 90s Rock band from Knoxville, along with some other great stuff which should or could fit in nicely at Americana Fest. Shall we?
Well Americana Music Association week in kicking into high gear here in Nashville. So many incredible musicians in town, official and unofficial showcases and shows and whatnot everywhere you go. Music that represents the pretty diverse collection of genres and subgenres that fall loosely or tightly under the big Americana umbrella... "It's a big enough umbrella, but it's always me who ends up getting wet."
Forever, swimming against the wind or pissing into the stream or whatever, Ear to the Ground presents a shuffle which includes some 1950s Portuguese Fado music, some 1970s Afro-jazz from Nigeria, a 90s lo-fi band from Olympia Washington, some awesome alternative, jazz, funk, electronic music from Philly, a 90s Rock band from Knoxville, along with some other great stuff which should or could fit in nicely at Americana Fest. Shall we?
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Traveling Mix
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A busy week for music in Nashville. Tonight it's a Tim Easton live recording at The Building in East Nashville with Megan Palmer plus Darrin Bradbury and Tim Carroll. Tomorrow - way too many choices, but it's the usual Wednesday night joint a Fran's with Darrin Bradbury and Tim Carroll. Thursday, a Happy Hour of great Roots Guitarist including Ear to the Ground favorite Mark Robinson, plus Ritchie Owens and the Farm Bureau, Ted Drozdowski's Scissormen, and Nick Kane formerly of The Mavericks at The Five Spot. After that another E2TG alum, Pony Boy plays as part of a 5 Spot favorites show and the fun continues...
Right now, we have a shuffle to put on...
A busy week for music in Nashville. Tonight it's a Tim Easton live recording at The Building in East Nashville with Megan Palmer plus Darrin Bradbury and Tim Carroll. Tomorrow - way too many choices, but it's the usual Wednesday night joint a Fran's with Darrin Bradbury and Tim Carroll. Thursday, a Happy Hour of great Roots Guitarist including Ear to the Ground favorite Mark Robinson, plus Ritchie Owens and the Farm Bureau, Ted Drozdowski's Scissormen, and Nick Kane formerly of The Mavericks at The Five Spot. After that another E2TG alum, Pony Boy plays as part of a 5 Spot favorites show and the fun continues...
Right now, we have a shuffle to put on...
Monday, September 15, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Better Than That Mix
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Good Monday Morning.... E2TG is back with our Morning Shuffle to excite and delight you!
Good Monday Morning.... E2TG is back with our Morning Shuffle to excite and delight you!
Friday, September 12, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Number Three Mix
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One of the best side-effects of writing this blog (and certainly not one I expected or intended) has been the incredible people I have met. Honestly, that is one of the main reasons, I have kept this up for three years. One of the very first people I "met" way back in the early stages of Ear to the Ground was Howard Rabach. Last night, I was fortunate enough to meet him in person and have an enjoyable dinner. Tonight, I get to see him again - playing bass for The Grey A for their CD Release Show at The Stone Fox.
Shuffle - let's go!
One of the best side-effects of writing this blog (and certainly not one I expected or intended) has been the incredible people I have met. Honestly, that is one of the main reasons, I have kept this up for three years. One of the very first people I "met" way back in the early stages of Ear to the Ground was Howard Rabach. Last night, I was fortunate enough to meet him in person and have an enjoyable dinner. Tonight, I get to see him again - playing bass for The Grey A for their CD Release Show at The Stone Fox.
Shuffle - let's go!
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Seems Like Incongruity Mix
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So, I've been thinking a lot about the concept of incongruity, and I have this theory that incongruity is a concept made up by those who cannot or will not see that everything and everyone is connected. And that what we experience as an incongruity means that we cannot presently see the way things are connected. Sometimes, it helps me to think that I am the one thing that connects these seemingly incongruous things. Hint: that thought though helpful is not the truth.
Keep this in mind (or don't) as you experience today's shuffle
So, I've been thinking a lot about the concept of incongruity, and I have this theory that incongruity is a concept made up by those who cannot or will not see that everything and everyone is connected. And that what we experience as an incongruity means that we cannot presently see the way things are connected. Sometimes, it helps me to think that I am the one thing that connects these seemingly incongruous things. Hint: that thought though helpful is not the truth.
Keep this in mind (or don't) as you experience today's shuffle
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
WOW Wednesday Music Shuffle - Ram On Mix
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So, The 'Mats did Alex Chilton on the Tonight Show, and U2 released a new album. It's just like the late 80s again - except The 'Mats were sober, and the U2 album was "magically" added to my computer library, and I have a computer that holds most of my music collection... ah, so this is what the future looks like - says 20 year old me...
Seriously, The 'Mats were incredible, and I haven't heard the U2 album yet, but the fact that the first song name drops Joey Ramone is promising...
Plus it was cool seeing the words, "Alex Chilton is Trending" on Facebook...
Ah, on we go...
So, The 'Mats did Alex Chilton on the Tonight Show, and U2 released a new album. It's just like the late 80s again - except The 'Mats were sober, and the U2 album was "magically" added to my computer library, and I have a computer that holds most of my music collection... ah, so this is what the future looks like - says 20 year old me...
Seriously, The 'Mats were incredible, and I haven't heard the U2 album yet, but the fact that the first song name drops Joey Ramone is promising...
Plus it was cool seeing the words, "Alex Chilton is Trending" on Facebook...
Ah, on we go...
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Monday, September 8, 2014
Monday Morning (and Evening) Music Shuffle - Two Saints Mix
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Well, it's late for the shuffle, but circumstance kept me from posting. As compensation, I extended the shuffle which means tons of music and just a bit of my celebrated wisdom. That last line is ego disguised as wry humility cleverly cloaked in a veneer of ego.
In case you missed it, the Ear to the Ground review of Darrin Bradbury's Motel Oatmeal was featured for a time on the front page of No Depression - the preeminent Americana magazine/website,
The review is still a featured review, and you can read it here.
Now, we have a ton of music to get to....
Well, it's late for the shuffle, but circumstance kept me from posting. As compensation, I extended the shuffle which means tons of music and just a bit of my celebrated wisdom. That last line is ego disguised as wry humility cleverly cloaked in a veneer of ego.
In case you missed it, the Ear to the Ground review of Darrin Bradbury's Motel Oatmeal was featured for a time on the front page of No Depression - the preeminent Americana magazine/website,
The review is still a featured review, and you can read it here.
Now, we have a ton of music to get to....
Saturday, September 6, 2014
E2TG Week in Review - September 2 through 5 Edition
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Check out, download, buy some of the fine, fine music featured this past week on Ear to the Ground
Check out, download, buy some of the fine, fine music featured this past week on Ear to the Ground
Friday, September 5, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Monsterdogs and Zen Koans Mix
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One thing I take pride in with E2TG is the diversity of music that I'm willing to include in my mix. Frankly, as much as I love Americana and as much as Americana is a pretty wide ranging "genre" of music, sometimes I need some metal, some punk, some music from far corners of the world, some experimental crazy stuff, some classical...
I need to give a shoutout to my friends from Valued Customer who has done more than their fair share in expanding my mind and my musical knowledge beyond all constraints. They have a blog of their own called P E A C E F O R K which explores some less travelled (but supremely awesome spokes in the complex web of musical styles and influences. Some of the music they've been posting should be showing up here soon, and I can't wait to share it.
While I've got your attention - I direct you to Valued Customer's masterpiece Kalpa which can be yours if the price is right (or wrong).
On to the shuffle for today....
One thing I take pride in with E2TG is the diversity of music that I'm willing to include in my mix. Frankly, as much as I love Americana and as much as Americana is a pretty wide ranging "genre" of music, sometimes I need some metal, some punk, some music from far corners of the world, some experimental crazy stuff, some classical...
I need to give a shoutout to my friends from Valued Customer who has done more than their fair share in expanding my mind and my musical knowledge beyond all constraints. They have a blog of their own called P E A C E F O R K which explores some less travelled (but supremely awesome spokes in the complex web of musical styles and influences. Some of the music they've been posting should be showing up here soon, and I can't wait to share it.
While I've got your attention - I direct you to Valued Customer's masterpiece Kalpa which can be yours if the price is right (or wrong).
On to the shuffle for today....
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Poorer Every Day Mix
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So, Nashville is getting a lot of hype these days... East Nashville more specifically. Is it deserved or not? I'll let someone else answer that deep and complicated question. However, what I will do, is tell you just a bit about one particular night in East Nashville (last night to be specific), and I will let you process this information how you will....
The night began with David Olney in his penultimate* Happy Hour show at The 5 Spot opening his show with an incredibly awesome recitation of Kubla Khan, and the night ended (almost) about six hours later at Fran's Eastside with Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury doing a version of Freebird that made me a fan of that song (or at least a fan of their version).
We have a mixed bag of cool tunes in today shuffle, so let's do it!
So, Nashville is getting a lot of hype these days... East Nashville more specifically. Is it deserved or not? I'll let someone else answer that deep and complicated question. However, what I will do, is tell you just a bit about one particular night in East Nashville (last night to be specific), and I will let you process this information how you will....
The night began with David Olney in his penultimate* Happy Hour show at The 5 Spot opening his show with an incredibly awesome recitation of Kubla Khan, and the night ended (almost) about six hours later at Fran's Eastside with Tim Carroll and Darrin Bradbury doing a version of Freebird that made me a fan of that song (or at least a fan of their version).
We have a mixed bag of cool tunes in today shuffle, so let's do it!
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Ear to the Wall Mix
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Life is a balance of patience, hard work, dumb luck, and the occasional moment of happy coincidence. Or so it seems from this particular moment in my existence. I was thinking about the two recent reviews I wrote, and the circumstances that lead me to having the opportunity to write those reviews. In 2011, when I started Ear to the Ground, I was trying to find a blog platform that would be easy to use and be visually interesting. I came across Posterous which seeming fit the bill. Through that site, I came into contact with Howard Rabach and his enigmatic band Ubiquity Machine. We became Facebook friends, and now Howard plays bass for The Grey A, and he sent me their new album to review.
About six months later, around the time that I decided that Posterous could not do everything I wanted to do*, I happened upon a cool band from New Jersey called Those Mockingbirds. That band lead me to Don Ryan, Popa Tunes, The Dead Exs, The End Men, and my whole fascination with New York/New Jersey/Connecticut bands and artists which continues to this day. Through all of that, and I think through a direct recommendation from Don Ryan, I became familiar with a band called Big Wilson River - a cool band which featured Darrin Bradbury who put out Motel Oatmeal, the other album I reviewed last weekend.
Just thought I'd share... I don't know what it all means... The End Men have taught me the idea of saying yes to almost everything, and so far that philosophy seems to be working out okay.
Well we have a shuffle to put on... so enough musing...
Life is a balance of patience, hard work, dumb luck, and the occasional moment of happy coincidence. Or so it seems from this particular moment in my existence. I was thinking about the two recent reviews I wrote, and the circumstances that lead me to having the opportunity to write those reviews. In 2011, when I started Ear to the Ground, I was trying to find a blog platform that would be easy to use and be visually interesting. I came across Posterous which seeming fit the bill. Through that site, I came into contact with Howard Rabach and his enigmatic band Ubiquity Machine. We became Facebook friends, and now Howard plays bass for The Grey A, and he sent me their new album to review.
About six months later, around the time that I decided that Posterous could not do everything I wanted to do*, I happened upon a cool band from New Jersey called Those Mockingbirds. That band lead me to Don Ryan, Popa Tunes, The Dead Exs, The End Men, and my whole fascination with New York/New Jersey/Connecticut bands and artists which continues to this day. Through all of that, and I think through a direct recommendation from Don Ryan, I became familiar with a band called Big Wilson River - a cool band which featured Darrin Bradbury who put out Motel Oatmeal, the other album I reviewed last weekend.
Just thought I'd share... I don't know what it all means... The End Men have taught me the idea of saying yes to almost everything, and so far that philosophy seems to be working out okay.
Well we have a shuffle to put on... so enough musing...
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Blue Rainbow Mix
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ICYMI (Labor Day Weekend Edition):
We created an E2TG Facebook Page - so like it please maybe?
We posted a couple of album reviews over the weekend.
1. Darrin Bradbury - Motel Oatmeal - on E2TG and cross-posted to No Depression (go visit both sites if you have time)
2. The Grey A - My Country - on E2TG and cross-posted (and currently featured!) to No Depression.
Shuffle to follow:
ICYMI (Labor Day Weekend Edition):
We created an E2TG Facebook Page - so like it please maybe?
We posted a couple of album reviews over the weekend.
1. Darrin Bradbury - Motel Oatmeal - on E2TG and cross-posted to No Depression (go visit both sites if you have time)
2. The Grey A - My Country - on E2TG and cross-posted (and currently featured!) to No Depression.
Shuffle to follow:
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Redneck Noir: E2TG Reviews Motel Oatmeal by Darrin Bradbury
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About a month ago, Darrin Bradbury sent me some songs he was thinking about releasing and wanted to know my opinion. So, I listened - cause when it comes to music well that is what I do - and when I was done I told him what I thought. Spoiler alert: he ended up releasing the album Motel Oatmeal on August 5 some seriously cool folks had good things to say about it, and it was trending as a bestselling "Folk" record on Bandcamp for a time. Darrin told me a few weeks back that my comments help convince him to release the record. I said at that time that I should tidy up those comments and post them as a review of the record. So, in my usual timely approach, I offer up what will serve as an official E2TG review of Motel Oatmeal - which is still the most current release from Mr. Bradbury.
About a month ago, Darrin Bradbury sent me some songs he was thinking about releasing and wanted to know my opinion. So, I listened - cause when it comes to music well that is what I do - and when I was done I told him what I thought. Spoiler alert: he ended up releasing the album Motel Oatmeal on August 5 some seriously cool folks had good things to say about it, and it was trending as a bestselling "Folk" record on Bandcamp for a time. Darrin told me a few weeks back that my comments help convince him to release the record. I said at that time that I should tidy up those comments and post them as a review of the record. So, in my usual timely approach, I offer up what will serve as an official E2TG review of Motel Oatmeal - which is still the most current release from Mr. Bradbury.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - Adjustable Rod Mix
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Not much pre-shuffle commentary today. It is Friday ahead of a three day weekend here in the States, and this is the last Morning Shuffle of August. We have some real gems in the shuffle today, so let's do it!
Not much pre-shuffle commentary today. It is Friday ahead of a three day weekend here in the States, and this is the last Morning Shuffle of August. We have some real gems in the shuffle today, so let's do it!
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Had it Blue Mix
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Update: Apparently, I cannot spell music, which is not a good thing for a music blogger... corrected.
September is shaping up to be a great month for live music in Nashville (I'm not sure that there is a bad month for live music in Nashville, but still...). I kicked things off a little early with a great night of music in East Nashville. I saw the legendary David Olney (who has been a fixture in Nashville music for as long as I can remember) and his incredibly tight band (with E2TG favorite Mark Robinson standing in and killing it on guitar) doing a Happy Hour show at The 5 Spot. Then I hopped over to East Nashville's best dive bar, Fran's Eastside to see another E2TG favorite Darrin Bradbury and Tim Carroll doing their weekly thing.
Well, we have another great shuffle of music today, so it's get to it.
Update: Apparently, I cannot spell music, which is not a good thing for a music blogger... corrected.
September is shaping up to be a great month for live music in Nashville (I'm not sure that there is a bad month for live music in Nashville, but still...). I kicked things off a little early with a great night of music in East Nashville. I saw the legendary David Olney (who has been a fixture in Nashville music for as long as I can remember) and his incredibly tight band (with E2TG favorite Mark Robinson standing in and killing it on guitar) doing a Happy Hour show at The 5 Spot. Then I hopped over to East Nashville's best dive bar, Fran's Eastside to see another E2TG favorite Darrin Bradbury and Tim Carroll doing their weekly thing.
Well, we have another great shuffle of music today, so it's get to it.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Bad Voodoo Mix
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Casual readers may not know this, but although I was born in Tennessee, my parents were both born in Louisiana, and I still have some deep roots in that state. There is quite a bit of Louisiana in today's shuffle by some twist of fortune/juju...
My phone did feel heavier this morning - probably due to the nearly 100 songs I added to the current playlist. How much does an MP3 file weigh anyway?
Ah- let's jump into it...
Casual readers may not know this, but although I was born in Tennessee, my parents were both born in Louisiana, and I still have some deep roots in that state. There is quite a bit of Louisiana in today's shuffle by some twist of fortune/juju...
My phone did feel heavier this morning - probably due to the nearly 100 songs I added to the current playlist. How much does an MP3 file weigh anyway?
Ah- let's jump into it...
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Whiskey Thunder Mix
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Another day, another cool mix of music.... Today we close out a few albums we've been spinning for some time, we have a track from one of the coolest and most underrated bands of all time, and we close things out with four tracks in a row from some Ear to the Ground favorites.
In case you missed it (shameless self-promotion): Check out an audio rendition of a excerpt from my novel-in-progress...
Shuffle begins right after the jump:
Another day, another cool mix of music.... Today we close out a few albums we've been spinning for some time, we have a track from one of the coolest and most underrated bands of all time, and we close things out with four tracks in a row from some Ear to the Ground favorites.
In case you missed it (shameless self-promotion): Check out an audio rendition of a excerpt from my novel-in-progress...
Shuffle begins right after the jump:
Monday, August 25, 2014
Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Never Enough Mix
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On a Monday which began with a spilled cup of coffee... (and did I mention it was Monday?) the shuffle comes up with a fine collection of music. No oddball pop gems, none of the usual suspects, just a nice collection of cool music from around the country...
Oh - I recorded a new bit of short fiction to my Soundcloud account. Check it if you want...
On a Monday which began with a spilled cup of coffee... (and did I mention it was Monday?) the shuffle comes up with a fine collection of music. No oddball pop gems, none of the usual suspects, just a nice collection of cool music from around the country...
Oh - I recorded a new bit of short fiction to my Soundcloud account. Check it if you want...
Friday, August 22, 2014
Friday Morning Music Shuffle - If I Could Mix
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Plodded my way through another week... Today's shuffle is a strange trip... or something...
Francie Moon and The Great Outdoors at Fond Object 8/16/2014
Plodded my way through another week... Today's shuffle is a strange trip... or something...
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
WOW Wednesday Music Shuffle - No Excuse Mix
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I just recently found out that the five year old daughter of Joseph "Taco" Russell is fighting a courageous battle with childhood cancer. #E2TG sends all kinds of love and good thoughts and prayers to the entire Taco Land family. I sometimes think of the bands/artists, I've gotten to know as part of an extended Ear to the Ground Family, and Taco Land has been a big part of that for a good portion of our history.
Right now you can get an "Audrey Strong" bracelet plus a free download of Heart of Texas by Taco Land for a $1 (or more) donation (proceeds go to St. Jude.) Here is the link to bandcamp...
from Taco Land:
Support bracelet for Taco's 5yr old daughter whom is fighting childhood cancer. Bracelet is Gold. This color represents the fight against all Childhood Cancers. All monies will be donated to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Bracelet comes with free download of song "Heart of Texas" which has Audrey opening the song by saying, "I love Daddy!"
Includes unlimited streaming of Heart of Texas via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
I just recently found out that the five year old daughter of Joseph "Taco" Russell is fighting a courageous battle with childhood cancer. #E2TG sends all kinds of love and good thoughts and prayers to the entire Taco Land family. I sometimes think of the bands/artists, I've gotten to know as part of an extended Ear to the Ground Family, and Taco Land has been a big part of that for a good portion of our history.
Right now you can get an "Audrey Strong" bracelet plus a free download of Heart of Texas by Taco Land for a $1 (or more) donation (proceeds go to St. Jude.) Here is the link to bandcamp...
from Taco Land:
Support bracelet for Taco's 5yr old daughter whom is fighting childhood cancer. Bracelet is Gold. This color represents the fight against all Childhood Cancers. All monies will be donated to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Bracelet comes with free download of song "Heart of Texas" which has Audrey opening the song by saying, "I love Daddy!"
Includes unlimited streaming of Heart of Texas via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
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