E2TG 9/9/2020 - Cilantro - These Rocks Mix (Tiny Spark Remix)

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So, I was thinking about being objective when it comes to music. It is not always impossible, but also, I do not think it is often preferable.  Here is what I mean. In my opinion music can be and should be a very personal thing. It is why I try not to criticize types of music that aren't my thing - except to say that I don't like it and perhaps to explain why. But, I try not to aim that criticism at people who do like that particular style of music - nor do I try to take on an air of superiority for what I like or don't like. I am, admittedly human (not always easy to admit), so I do fall short - so don't dig back and use my own words against me. 

I guess it comes down to personal taste and all the factors (nature vs. nuture) which influence what we like and what we don't like. Take cilantro, some people like it and some people hate it, and at least in some instances, there appears to be a genetic reason. I tend to think all matters of personal "taste" may be similarly derived. Maybe not all genetic, but perhaps other factors. 

There is a prevalent idea that the music we first heard at a particular age - like 14 or so - has a lasting impact on us. I know that music I that meant something to be at an early age, still holds an appeal to me even if my overall tastes may have changed. I cannot objectively explain why I like that music - maybe when others seem to hate it - I may even understand where the other people are coming from (and I may feel embarrassed about my affinity) - but that affinity is there (and for the record, there is  no reason for me to feel ashamed). 

So, I can't (nor do I want to) objectively analyze the songs that are foundational for me. I would rather described how they make me feel or what memories they evoke or where my head was when I first heard them. To me - that - and not some technical analysis on the weakness of the lyrics or the derivatve nature of the music - is what is important.  Yes, band B may have ripped off band A's sound - but the fact is, I heard band B when I was fourteen years old and not band A - and so I am linked to band B. I may grow to appreciated band A and maybe even acknowledge what band B did - but my link to band B remains intact. 

So, if I cut myself some slack for "ctinge-worthy" music from my youth that I still like, then I have to also cut other people slack for their tastes - even if I don't understand it. A song or a band may be linked into their subconscious. Then again, it maybe a case of cilantro.   

Today - we feature songs 19-22 from this week's Playlist:

19. "Everything is Alright" by Dirk Powell

First up today, we have a good one - the lead track from the new album, When I Wait For You" by producer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and sideman Dirk Powell. The album features a stellar array of guests including Rhiannon Giddens, Sara and Sean Watkins, and more. Dirk Powell is based in Louisiana where he is involved in the Cajun and Creole music scenes. He owns his own studio on the banks of Bayou Teche. His earliest musical influences are from his native Kentucky, and he combines all of those influences with his original vision to make some compelling music. 

20. "By You Now" by Leila 

Next up, we have the new single from this Pennsylvania based singer-songwriter who blends soul, jazz, and indie pop into a wonderful sound. 

21. "You Are" by COY Swede; Matthew Titmouse

We switch things up, with our next track - the latest single from Stockholm based EDM producer, songwriter, and musician COY Swede (aka Thom Maximus) joined here by ocalist Matthew Titmouse. The song deals with loss. It is a great addition to the playlist. 

22. "Just Another Dance Song" by YEWO

This segment of music wraps up with a track from this eclectic band from Hungary.  I was sent three tracks - all very different, and I went with this dance/disco flavored song. It is a lot a fun, and I really dig the sound. I love getting new music from all over the world. 

Tomorrow - we wrap up this week's Playlist (yes - already!) 

         

    Featured Friday Playlist

Theme Thursday Morning Shuffle - Just a Shot Away Mix

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Okay - today I am mostly going to let my shuffle speak for itself... but I was thinking last night about something I wrote yesterday and something I've heard repeated,,, for many of us, as we observe what is happening in the world - in Washington. As we are horrified and angry and yes at times amused (Bowling Green Massacre), we are left to the great mystery - why are there still people supporting this administration.  Or more importantly, why/how are there people who actually think it is going well. The conclusion I came to is two-fold. First of all, they are seeing the world through a filter that makes things look very different than what I am seeing. Am I also looking at the world through a filter? Sure, I imagine we are to a certain extent. But, in most cases, that filter has limits.  In most cases, it is possible to find some common ground of agreement - but in recent times - and this did not start by any means with the election of the current President - that ability to find any common ground has seemed elusive. So, whereas I  may view a speech or a talk show appearance or a tweet - as dangerous or delusional or dishonest, someone viewing through a different filter - may see it as brave or refreshing or brutally honest.

The second thing is the proliferation of extremist propaganda outlets disguised as news sources. There is a meme going around that attempts to provide guidance in this area, and although some may argue with the placement of certain outlets on that chart, the basic premise is pretty hard to dismiss. Add to that the logarithms employed by sites like Facebook but make it less likely that you will see posts that go against your worldview. To my friends on the left (and this is to me as well), maybe - just maybe - I should read some of those far right sites - just to understand what kinds of information is being fed to those friends of ours who still support this President. Not to forgive or excuse or justify - just to try to gain some understanding...

Then, we need to find away to fight back against extremist of all kinds and shapes and the powers that shape and control those extremists...


Moving on... Had a blast at the first ever WXNA night at Kay Bob's Grill and Ale last night.  They are doing this every third Wednesday. From 5-11pm a percentage of sales goes to WXNA!


ICYMI - My review of the new album from Sean Quinn and the Tremblers was posted this morning. You can read it HERE.


Now for Theme Thursday,.... usual disclaimers apply - just songs that loosely fit a predetermined theme (unexplained). Some times - the connection is just a title that makes me think of something that fits the theme.  Also, I do not mean to ascribe any motives political or otherwise to any of the artists/songs


Let's Go!

Music City Monday Morning Shuffle - Lusty Lad Mix

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 Getting settled into this new year...  

Saturday night: Got to see some "Earie"award winners perform:  First Josh Morris at The Country, then Renee Wahl and The Sworn Secrets at The Family Wash and finally Tommy Womack, also at The Family Wash.

Well, it's my first full work week of the new year, and thus our first Music City Monday in a about three weeks.  Let's do it!

Music City Monday Morning Shuffle - Road and a Flash of Lightning Mix

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Welcome to the working week...   here is a musical recap of my weekend.  Friday, enjoyed another Tim Carroll Rock and Roll Happy Hour show at The 5 Spot.  Saturday, did a live show of Double Shot with Joe and Sue.  Then, I listened to Gina Frary Bacon and Gregory Riggle's interview with Tim Carroll on Nashville U.  Then, I headed to the Southern Festival of Books just in time to catch Tomi Lunsford's set. Then to Beared Iris Brewery in Germantown to catch a bunch of cool songwriters hosted by Tom Schreck.  Saw some old friends, including Schreck, Ariel Bui, Kiely Schlesinger (back by Drew Kohl), and finally got to see Ben Douglas.  Then, I headed to Douglas Corner Cafe to catch a round with Tom House, RB Morris, and Michael "Supe" Granda.  David Olney was supposed to be a part of this, but he had to sit out under doctor's orders. It was a fine night, nonetheless, with three very distinct songwriters and some great stories.

Sunday night, after a kind of lazy day, I got the exact show I needed to energize my spirit. One of those incredible, unlikely Nashville nights. At the (still unofficial) reincarnation of one of Nashville's storied venues (Radio Cafe), I caught a set by local legend Greg Garing, plus a lively and fun set of punk rock from The Buddies.  The Buddies are made up of two members of Black Vincent (including front man Coley Kennedy) from Michigan plus Nashvillian's Justin, Scott, and Kim Collins (Justin and the Cosmics, Smoking Flowers). And the night ended, it superb raucous style by a band billed as World's Greatest Eagle Scouts, but who reminded me a whole lot of Blackfoot Gypsies - I guess because it was...  It was amazing seeing this band in such an intimate setting. At one point, the Collins' brothers brought a table and chairs on stage and sat and smoked and drank. Later, the whole bar was rolled up to the front of the stage. Beer cans were flying, people were dancing.  It was a great way to end a Sunday night.

Now, we roll into Monday. Here at E2TG, that means we feature songs from the Music City Monday playlist - songs/artists/albums with some connection to Nashville. Let's go!

Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - Close Your Eyes, Breathe Slow and We'll Begin Mix

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"Close your eyes, breathe slow, and we'll begin..."  - from "The Pan Within" written by Mike Scott and recorded by his band, The Waterboys from their album This is the Sea.

Last night I took the Blackstone Bus to Music City Roots at the Factory in Franklin.  I think the bus is one of this town's best kept secrets.  Every Wednesday, the bus departs from The 5 Spot in East Nashville makes a stop at Soulshine Pizza in Midtown and then makes its way down I65 to Franklin. 

Reasons it is such a cool, awesome deal:  1. The ride is free.  You pay your (usually $10) Roots ticket, select the Blackstone Bus option. 2. They serve samples of different varieties of Blackstone Beer (the longest currently operating local brewery). 3 You get some free hors d'oeuvres courtesy of Monnells.  4. There is usually awesome live music on the bus and 5. You don't have to drive.

About #4 - the scheduled music performer was under the weather, but because Nashville - it turned out that The Worry Dolls were on board.  The Worry Dolls are recent transplants from London. I had seen them at a showcase during Americana, and they graced us with some songs on the bus.  I nice treat to be sure.

This weeks Music City Roots was pretty eclectic.  Host Jim Lauderdale opened the show with a song from his new album - which I now really want to check out.  A bluegrass band from Italy played one song.  I really dug them a bunch - they are called La Terza Classe.  The Orphan Brigade played next, they are a really interesting group of experienced players with a pretty fascinating story. They completed their current album in Kentucky at what is called the Most Haunted House in America. I really liked their music which is kind of moody roots music - I guess.  LynnMarie was next with her polka band.  They won me over by opening their set with a cover of The Who's "Squeezebox" and a song written about LynnMarie's son who has Down's Syndrome. The latter song really spoke to me.

Amy Black was up next - backed by some of the players who joined her when I saw her CD Release show at The Bluebird Café and supplemented by a horn section and noted Nashville bassist Hags Haggerty.  They sounded fantastic.

Ted Drozdowski's Scissormen played the final set of the night and did what they do best - bringing the authentically original take on psychedelic North Mississippi blues music. And for those who read yesterday's post - no, the MCR stage could not contain Ted Drozdowski.  Drozdowski is a phenomenal guitar player and his band provide some amazing support. 

The closing Music City Jam featured a pretty awesome version of a song Muddy Waters recorded called "Rollin' and Tumblin'".  It was amazing to hear the different takes from everyone on stage.

On to the shuffle:

Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Cold Front Mix

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Here we go... another week!

Kind of a low-key weekend.  Got to hang out with some of the folks from Nashville's newest radio station: WXNA-LPFM on Saturday, and I picked up my t-shirt and tote bag.  Things seem to be rolling along. The studio will be in the former location of Thirty Tigers above Grimey's and The Basement. 

Last night, I went to the Basement East where East Nashville Songwriters Club made their debut in the new location with sets by Allen Thompson, Jay Rutherford (of Los Colognes) and Elise Davis.  Cool night of music!

Speaking of cool... the temperatures were in the 30s this morning.  Which makes the first song of the shuffle appropriate even is weather isn't exactly what the song is about.

Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Set the Dial to Black and White Mix

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Still reeling from Saturday night's Raging Fire reunion at Exit/In.  So many memories stirred, the band sounded so good, and the songs were still as awesome as always.  My (perhaps) unique perspective.  I was a huge fan of the Nashville music scene in the mid to late 1980s, but just a fan and mostly at a distance.  I only made it to Nashville on the rare occasion I could round up people to go with me. I was lucky enough to see some of the great bands of  that era, but I didn't know anybody.

That being said, the music was important to me, and WRVU and The Metro and later Fireplace Whiskey Journal were my lifelines.  So, it was a pretty cool experience to be at this show and to actually know some of the people involved.  And speaking of WRVU, when Adam Dread fist bumped me during the Raging Fire set... my eighteen/nineteen year old self suddenly felt very cool.

And to be redundant, Raging Fire absolutely killed it. Melora Zaner is still one of the best and sexiest rock vocalist around, Mark Medley kept the whole thing in perfect time, bassists John Reed, Les Shields (and the other one I didn't know) were awesome.  The very large shoes of the late Michael Godsey were filled by not one but two of the scenes very best - Joe Blanton (The Enemy, Royal Court of China, The Bluefields) and Jeff Cease (Rumble Circus, Black Crowes). They were perfect for the role, having known Michael and having been present...

We jump into a Monday Morning shuffle....

Wednesday Morning Music Shuffle - Sparkle Gone Mix

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Tonight on a very special episode of Music City Roots... Really looking forward to tonight's benefit show for Tommy Womack.  A rare Nashville area appearance of Jason and the Scorchers, Webb Wilder and the Beatnecks, Will Kimbrough, Dan Baird and more guests... If you can't be there, you can watch the livestream.

After that it is Aaron Lee  Tasjan, Nellie Clay, John Calvin Abney, and Levi Parham at The 5 Spot- where conveniently, the Roots bus will drop me off.

Saturday Afternoon Music Shuffle (Live Blog Event) - Who Knows What May Happen Mix

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Welcome to Saturday, and a ultra rare Saturday shuffle - live blogging experiment.  Enjoy...

3:09p.m.   Hit Shuffle

Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Comes in Torrents/Sink or Swim Mix

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Welcome to the week... it looks like this is going to be a short week for me, so expect some inconsistent Morning Shuffles... check back periodically and I know I will be back as soon as possible.

First, I had a great time at The Tomato Art Fest in East Nashville on Saturday.  Saw some great music and got to hang out with a bunch of great friends.  Sorry to everyone I missed.

In the shuffle we have some cool tunes... so let us not delay...

Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Refuse to Be Your Jodi Mix

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I find myself rushed again... so, let's get to this:

1.  Jonquil Child by Tiffany Huggins Grant which we have been featuring songs off of for a few weeks has been released.  Check it out HERE. I recommend it highly.

2. There is a great FREE SHOW in downtown Nashville today on 5th between Demonbreun and Korean Veterans.  It is the CD Release show for the companion album to the Dylan, Cash, and the Nashville Cats exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.  Lots of cool folks including some of the players from the original classic recordings.  Did I mention it is free?  Details: HERE. Gates at 5:00, Music starts at 6:00

3.  Later on tonight, Two Cow Garage are playing at the Hi Watt with Heathen Sons and Benchmarks.  Benchmarks is the new moniker for Todd Farrell and the Dirty Birds.  Should be a great show.

Shuffle: (It's a good one)....

Thursday Morning Music Shuffle - All My Sorrows Mix

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One day closer to the weekend.... it's looking like a great weekend for music in Nashville... on my agenda includes a show Friday night at The Basement (the original one) with R.B. Morris and #E2TG favorites Tim Lee 3.  It's an early show..  Doing some No Depression stuff Saturday and Sunday nights.

We have another fine, fine shuffle... so let's get to it.

Friday Morning Music Shuffle - How many 'L's are in Van Halen Mix

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The reality of writing an independent music blog, as I have done for over four years now, is that you have to push through those days when it seems like no one is pay attention (and even those days when seriously no one is paying attention). Maybe by attrition or maybe dumb luck, sometimes good stuff starts to happen, and you find yourself in incredible situations that almost do not seem real. The key in those moments (for me at least) is to not lose my sense of wonder and no matter what to never lose the hunger for discovering new music.  For me, when I lose that hunger, it will be time to move on... fortunately, I am not there yet.

Okay, so what prompted all this?  Several things, some amazing opportunities have come my way, and I choosing not to be cynical or jaded about them. Also, something seems to have broken open in the last couple of weeks and the number of people contacting me to listen to their music has grown exponentially. It can be overwhelming, but seriously it is the most incredible good fortune.  So be patient... I will listen to everything sent to me, but I can't make any promises beyond that.  Every time someone sends me music, I hope it will be one of "those" albums that changes everything... it isn't always, but even when it is not, I still get to hear some incredible music.

Tuesday Morning Music Shuffle - Bukowski in my Underwear Mix

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So, I find myself short on time, so I have to speed through this. I hope you find time to dig deeper.  I could not find the exact track for all the songs for the Video Playlist, so you my have to do some internet searches.  Some great stuff, and well worth the effort.

Monday Morning Music Shuffle - Just Another Story Mix

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#CXCW15 wrapped up this weekend....  Day 6, 7, 8 featured tons of great music... I feel like I am certain to leave some out, so please consider this a partial recap...  visit couchbycouchwest.com to experience or re-experience the whole thing. Anyway, some of the highlights of the last three days included: Nikki Sue and the Bad News, Young America, Modern Day Poets (which includes members of the now defunct band Cupla), Joe Nolan, Darrin Bradbury, Two Cow Garage with Todd Farrell, and a second video of Miss Shevaughn and Yuma Wray doing a Superchunk cover.

Way more great music than I could keep up with, but the good news I can go back and try to see what I missed, and so can you...  apologies to any FOE2TG (friends of ear 2 the ground) that I missed in my recaps...