Dreamspider Publicity Year in Review

‘Tis the Season and the end of the year! Here’s a rundown of the albums that Dreamspider Publicity publicized in 2018 in order of release date. Please do keep listening to and supporting live and recorded music! THANK YOU to all the artists, writers, DJs, listeners, and concert goers!!

Cheers and have a fantastic Holiday Season!

~Erin Scholze, Dreamspider Publicity
These Things Just Don’t Happen By Themselves… 

Love Canon – Cover Story
Released on Organic Records: July 13
www.lovecanonmusic.com

“Charlottesville, VA’s Love Canon have established themselves as prodigious interpreters of others’ songs. Their latest is chock full of circa 1980’s classics, each imbued with an acoustic charm. In some ways it speaks to the flexibility of the underlying song… In others it speaks the group’s ability to transform the song.” —Twangville, Mayer Danzig

“A guest-filled ride through familiar old favorites, interpreted not as party reboots but as thoughtful reimaginations. Songs from an era known for indulgent electric sheen get broken down and rebuilt with serious bluegrass chops… Throughout the record, the band dips into its deep rolodex of musical friends, tapping quirky troubadour Keller Williams to sing lead on R.E.M.’s ‘Driver 8,’ which features blazing solos and an extended reggae breakdown. Ace fiddler Michael Cleveland and singer Aoife O’Donovan also show up for one of the album’s best tracks, a mountain-hop version of Paul Simon’s ‘Graceland.’ Bluegrass has always been about passing songs down the line and sharing them with friends; Love Canon is toying with that tradition in a good way.” ––Blue Ridge Outdoors, Jedd Ferris

“Stripped of its slick ’70s country production and replaced with upbeat horns and killer harmonies, ‘Islands in the Stream’ is a perfect laid-back love ballad when performed by Love Canon. The band’s friend Lauren Balthrop evokes Parton in the high harmonies, and Bobby Read and John D’Earth provide a little bit of funk on the saxophone and trumpet, respectively.” –The Boot, Amy McCarthy

Hot Buttered Rum – Lonesome Panoramic
Independently Released: July 20
www.hotbutteredrum.net

“Tight Tunes and Whispers of Tom Petty: Lurking behind each song is a rhythmic urgency that’s less prog-bluegrass and more rock oriented… Over its 15-plus-year career, the band has proven itself capable of pulling together strands of country, folk, bluegrass, and jam music into an energetic, good-time experience. But with the batch of well-crafted, sharply performed tunes they cooked up on Lonesome Panoramic, Hot Buttered Rum has managed to blend its ragged charms with that of a well-oiled musical machine.” —No Depression, Jim Shahen

“Ultimately, Lonesome Panoramic reflects the work of a talented group of close-knit colleagues who know how to share their skills and play in sync, with no one individual eager to overshadow the others. The band emphasize subtlety over sizzle, finesse as opposed to frenzy, and a confidence and assurance that makes melody the primary focus. It’s a decided skill set to be sure…” —Bluegrass Today, Lee Zimmerman

“Probably best described as a tangling of jam, country, folk, and bluegrass that results in a timeless energy and easily enjoyable spirit, this is a criminally underappreciated outfit and a fantastic album.” —The Daily Vault, Tom Haugen

Chicago Farmer – Quarter Past Tonight  – Live Double Disc Album
Independently Released: August 3
www.chicagofarmer.com

“I’d never heard of transplanted son of the soil Cody Diekhoff and you probably haven’t either. But this tenth-anniversary double-live, 24 songs and eight spoken bits that include a tribute to his heroically supportive wife entitled ‘Benefits’… he’s funny, he’s kind, and he’s preparing an instructional video about ‘how do you get that drawl that you do—it’s kind of a mix between a small-town big-city kind of a northernly southernly easterly westerly stuck-in-the-middle type of a drawl.’”  —Noisey, Robert Christgau

“You don’t hear many albums these days like this two-CD set, which hearkens back to a time when solo folk artists like Tom Paxton and Arlo Guthrie strode onstage offering nothing but their voices, guitars, harmonicas, visions, and wit.”  —The Morton Report, Jeff Burger

“A great example of his songwriting and performing chops is ‘I Need a Hit,’ the first song off disc one. It’s about a road-worn troubadour dreaming about a John Hartford scenario — meaning he’d have a money-maker like ‘Gentle on My Mind’ funding his traveling circus.” —Wide Open Country, Bobby Moore

Chad Elliott & The Redemptions – Rest Heavy: The Sun Studio Sessions
Independently Released: August 10
www.chadelliott.net

“Iowa suggests such names as Greg Brown, Bo Ramsey, and Pieta Brown among others but now singer-songwriter, artist and author, Chad Elliott can join their esteemed company with Rest Heavy. Even if you didn’t know that these tracks were recorded at Sun Studios in Memphis, you’d still sense a bit of that Elvis Presley style in Elliot’s mix of roots-rock, soul, blues and modern gospel… This album just oozes soul, truth, and seems rather timeless as it could have been recorded almost any time in the last fifty-sixty years.” ––Elmore, Jim Hynes

“Rest Heavy… opens with an arpeggiated piano riff and cymbal crash before launching into a leaned-back, eyes-closed, soulful-howl gospel-blues tune of which Sam Cooke would have approved… As he croon-wails his way through tracks that range from hardscrabble stories and ain’t-life-like-that tunes to songs of somber reflection, his constellation of influences is clear, with stylized moments and melodic arrangements that evoke the likes of Tom Waits, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen and Doc Watson.”
—Little Village Magazine, Lucas Benson

“ … there is a timeless feel all along the tracks that tell his talent.. roots rock, gospel, soul, blues in a perfect spirit… I would even say this album is the perfect tribute to the spirit of the Sun Studios. I already listened at least 10 times to it and these songs take me with them…” —ISA Radio, Mike Penard, France

Rudi Ekstein – Carolina Chimes: Rudi Ekstein’s All Original Bluegrass Instrumental Showcase Featuring Stuart Duncan, Jeff Autry, Mark Schatz
Independently Released on Foxfire Recording: October 5
www.carolinachimes.com

“The bulk of [the songs] are flat-out, hold-on-to-your-hat wild rides that he takes you on… The entire album brings back many great memories to me of John Hartford’s many musical excursions through the years, jam sessions with Mike Marshall down in Florida back in the ’70’s and all sorts of good stuff... I would suggest the best way to listen to this CD is on a nice drive through the country or anywhere.” —Elmore, Ken Spooner

“These twelve original numbers flow brilliantly, a set of mandolin-based bluegrass the likes we haven’t experienced in a number of years. I’ve hit ‘repeat’ more than once listening to the set, the minutes passing by much too quickly…. An absolute stunner of a bluegrass album.” –-Fervor Coulee, Donald Teplyske

“This is some serious, hard core bluegrass played with a lot of fire… Good stuff.” —Mandolin Cafe

Edward David Anderson – Chasing Butterflies
Independently Released on Black Dirt Records: October 18
www.edwarddavidanderson.com

“Key tracks are the disturbing epic tale of race and injustice (with majestic, swirling fiddle) in ‘The Ballad of Lemuel Penn’, the brutally honest ‘Bad Tattoos’ (‘The story of my life’s written on my skin’) and the hypnotic ‘Crosses’ with its rousing and extended instrumental section closing out the track… On Chasing Butterflies, Edward David Anderson commands our attention with his accomplished songwriting and sublime presentation. He certainly has mine. It’s a triumph.” —Listening Through The Lens, No Depression, Rob Dickens

“…nothing here is overplayed: the sound is light, mainly acoustic and upbeat… Judging by his self-penned songs, Anderson observes his world and writes what comes to mind. On his second solo release he covers family, misspent youth (tattoos), dogs, inspirational friends, bleak Montana landscapes and injustices… All in all an interesting outing that explains his wide fanbase.” –Americana Music Show, Tony Ives

“The quality of songwriting here is exemplary. Without exception we are treated to consistently strong melodies with memorable hooky choruses that will live with you after only a few listens. There is a very strong and diverse lyrical theme to these songs while the musicianship on the record is outstanding throughout.” —AmericanaUK, Mark Hegarty

Roy Schneider & Kim Mayfield – Reckless Saints
Independently Released on Shiny Gnu Records: Nov 2
www.RecklessSaints.com

“This husband and wife team runs the gamut from engaging acoustic folk to driving bluesy tunes, with hints of twang sprinkled in… The ringing impression from this offering is the seamless blending of so many forms of roots music, combined with meaningful and often insightful lyrics. It works beautifully.”
—Making A Scene, Jim Hynes

“Reckless Saints is an acoustic duo comprised of Roy Schneider Music on guitar, harmonica, dobro, drums, banjo and bass with wife Kim Mayfield on guitar, baritone ukulele, mandolin and piano. They both sing and they both write. Their self-titled debut only has one cover: “Election Day” by the late Blaze Foley (the subject of Ethan Hawke’s new movie, Blaze.) Bonnie Raitt bassist Freebo is on hand as is the legendary Nashville harmonica player Charlie McCoy and fiddler Keven Aland. It all amounts to an Americana gem that fans of real pure mountain-stream country will love.” —The Aquarian Weekly, Mike Greenblatt

“Enlisting Blaze Foley’s old musical partner Gurf Morlix for help, Schneider and Mayfield cover Foley’s classic ‘Election Day’ with rough passion, but the beautifully rendered ‘If I Die Tomorrow’ and ‘Poison Arrow’ swoon in their arms. All who cry out for salvation from Reckless Saints might experience the same effect.”
—Elmore Magazine, Peter Lindblad

Taylor Martin – Song Dogs
Released on Little King Records: Nov 16
www.taylormartin.org

“Indeed, Martin, an Asheville, NC resident, delivers a stunning work of eight original and three covers all done in a sometimes rock, sometimes blues, sometime ballad and sometimes folk style. His cover of Neil Young’s ‘Music Arcade’ is definitely a Cajun themed sound. Martin’s voice is rather gravelly sounding and is surprisingly easy to listen to for an entire CD… All in all, Song Dogs is an excellent release of music to which almost any listener can relate. Lets face it, maybe some of us can’t relate to love lost or being on the highway. But seriously, who among us can’t claim overuse of a cell phone, at least at some point in time. This is just great music. Highly recommended.” —Audiophile Voice, Paul Wilson

“The piano driven, haunting title song comes last, inspired in part by coyotes howling (per cover art) to find each other at night… It may seem that it stands apart from the others in tone and style, but several listens to Martin will have you hearing an array of styles and influences. That’s what makes it so infectious. Each song stands apart.” —Country Standard Times, Jim Hynes

“The song [‘Little Pictures’] rings instantly familiar and simplifies a complex message in clear lyrical fashion, over catchy, punchy, piano-prominent rhythms.” —Americana Highways, Melissa Clarke

NEW FOR 2019!

Be on the lookout for a new book about Leftover Salmon in February entitled Leftover Salmon: Thirty Years of Festival! Written by Tim Newby

New albums in early 2019:
Amy McCarley
MECO  – (Feb 8, 2019)

Reed Foehl
Lucky Enough – (Feb 1, 2019)

 

Read Full Post »

Taylor Martin’s ‘Song Dogs,’ OUT TODAY – Ft. Members of The Honeycutters, Mountain Heart & More

Taylor Martin’s Song Dogs Out Today, November 16, on Little King Records
Produced by Amanda Anne Platt at Sound Temple Studios in Asheville, NC
Featuring Members of Amanda Anne Platt & The Honeycutters, Mountain Heart, and more

Available Now To Stream and Purchase → https://taylormartin.hearnow.com
(Please note that this link takes you to the correct album on Spotify; however, it currently
attributes the album to the wrong Taylor Martin, working with Spotify to correct this)

More about Taylor Martin at https://about.me/songdogs

ASHEVILLE, NC — Taylor Martin’s Song Dogs is out now on Little King Records (11/16/18). Spinning tales of the highway, homes, lost love, love regained, redemption, and the overuse of cell phones, Martin’s soulful, relatable lyrics and raspy, emotion filled voice is instantly recognizable. The Honeycutters’ Amanda Anne Platt took the lead as Music Producer (along with adding harmony vocals on a handful of songs) with the help of Co-Producer and Engineer, Robert George, and Martin’s visions for the album. The album was recorded at Sound Temple Studios in Asheville, North Carolina.

“Taylor Martin is a killer songwriter,” declares Platt. “He’s got a great sense of melody and an ability to write classic, accessible songs about things we all take for granted. It’s also to his credit that he hits all sides of the spectrum– there are toe tappers and tear jerkers on this album and everything in between. I’m a big fan of the saying, ‘Great songs produce themselves,’ I certainly found that to be true in working with Taylor.”

The album features a number of special guests including Platt, Mountain Heart’s Aaron Ramsey and Josh Shilling, GRAMMY winning Secret Agent 23 Skidoo’s Debrissa McKinney, and Jon Stickley Trio’s Lyndsay Pruett on fiddle, among others.

To celebrate the album’s release, Martin shares a video for the album’s title track “Song Dogs which is full of stunning imagery. Taylor says, ”when I heard that the filmmaker Aladin Aathmani, was heading to Morocco, I jumped at the opportunity to have my musical vision put in a distant landscape. His emotional video interpretation of ‘Song Dogs’ is very moving and like nothing I imagined (in a great way).”

The piano driven, haunting title song comes last, inspired in part by coyotes howling (per cover art) to find each other at night,” writes Country Standard Times’ Jim Hynes of the song. He continues, “It may seem that it stands apart from the others in tone and style, but several listens to Martin will have you hearing an array of styles and influences. That’s what makes it so infectious. Each song stands apart.”

A resident of Asheville since 2004, Martin has been creating music since 1994. He blends musical styles: the approach to music he grew up with in Richmond, Virginia; the western spirit he experienced living five years in Paradise, Utah; and the sounds of southern rock, country, and rhythm n’ blues.

Jeff Burger writes, “The North Carolina–based Taylor Martin, whose raspy vocals recall Levon Helm and, occasionally, Dr. John, features eight originals on this third album, along with three well-chosen covers: Bob Dylan’s ‘Sign on the Window,’ Neil Young’s ‘Music Arcade,’ and Merle Haggard’s ‘Kern River.’ Martin’s own lyrical subjects are all over the map: ‘Little Pictures,’ the funky opener, is about excessive cellphone use, for example, while ‘Hollywood’ references Marilyn Monroe, and the melancholy ‘Eden Colorado’ is about looking for a friend, a dream, and some hope. The music—sometimes funky, sometimes folky, sometimes poppy—is just as varied.”

Martin previously released a video for the album’s bluesy opener “Little Pictures,” which is a song that tips the brim to artists like Professor Longhair while having a contemporary social commentary. The song is what Martin calls his, “observation of people being lost to reality and the death of empathy and the human experience. People being on cell phones too much are missing out on the beauty of the world.” It also invites the listener to put down their electronics and sink further into the experience of the album. Americana Highways premiered the video and wrote “The song rings instantly familiar and simplifies a complex message in clear lyrical fashion, over catchy, punchy, piano-prominent rhythms.”

“Taylor Martin is a singer-songwriter who will remind you of everything good from Tom Waits to the Everly Brothers or the Avett Brothers with some surf rock thrown in. Well-sung, well-played, well-written and relevant…” writes Asheville Citizen Times.

Asheville’s veteran songwriter is just below the forty mark with a bright future as a songwriter and performer ahead of him. Although as jaded and bitter as some road worned heroes, Martin finds refuge in a good sense of humor. “I would have been a terrible dentist,” he laughs. “I’m here, music is why, this is Earth, let’s make more music.”

Taylor Martin – Song Dogs Track Listing

1. Little Pictures   3:34
2. Here Comes the Flood    2:59
3. Eden Colorado   3:17
4. Music Arcade [Neil Young] copyright Silver Fiddle Music   4:25
5. Second Sight   3:41
6. Hollywood   3:41
7. Our Memories   3:49
8. Kern River [Merle Haggard] copyright Mt. Shasta Music   4:00
9. Milk and Honey   3:22
10. Sign on the Window [Bob Dylan] copyright Big Sky Music   3:39
11. Song Dogs   4:49
     

     

MUSICIAN CREDITS
Taylor Martin – Lead Vocals, Acoustic Guitar (all)
Richie Jones – Drums, Aux Percussion (all)
Matthew Dufon – Bass (all) Harmony Vocals (2,10)
Aaron “Woody” Wood – Acoustic Guitar (3,8), Electric Guitar (5, 6,10)
Matthew Smith – Electric Guitar (1, 2), Pedal Steel (3,7,8,11)
Aaron Ramsey – Acoustic Guitar (2,4,7,9,10), Mandolin (9)
Josh Shilling – Piano (1,2, 6,7, 8,10,11), B3 (1,2,5,6,7,10), Wurlitzer (5)
Phil Alley – Telecaster (7)
Lyndsay Pruett – fiddle (4,5,7,8)
Amanda Anne Platt – harmony  vocals (2,4,7,9,10)
Debrissa McKinney – harmony vocals (6)

Recorded @ Sound Temple Studios in Asheville, NC
Recorded & Mixed by Robert George
Produced by Amanda Anne Platt
Co-Produced by Robert George & Taylor Martin

For more information and tour dates, please visit www.TaylorMartin.org and www.facebook.com/taylormartin.org and www.twitter.com/song_dogs.

 

Read Full Post »

Taylor Martin’s ‘Song Dogs,’ Produced by Amanda Anne Platt, Out 11/16 on Little King Records

Taylor Martin Releases Song Dogs on November 16 on Little King Records
Produced by Amanda Anne Platt at Sound Temple Studios in Asheville, NC
Featuring Members of Amanda Anne Platt & The Honeycutters, Mountain Heart, and more

First Single: “Little Pictures” Available Now →  https://taylormartin.hearnow.com/little-pictures

More about Taylor Martin at https://about.me/songdogs

ASHEVILLE, NC — Taylor Martin brings you music with a beating heart; his raspy, emotion filled voice is instantly recognizable and his lyrics have an unflinching sincerity. Martin releases his third album, Song Dogs November 16, 2018 on Little King Records. On it, he spins tales of the highway, homes, lost love, love regained, redemption, and the overuse of cell phones. The Honeycutters’ Amanda Anne Platt took the lead as Music Producer (along with adding harmony vocals on a handful of songs) with the help of Co-Producer and Engineer, Robert George, and Martin’s visions for the album. The album was recorded at Sound Temple Studios in Asheville, North Carolina.

“Taylor Martin is a killer songwriter,” declares Platt. “He’s got a great sense of melody and an ability to write classic, accessible songs about things we all take for granted. It’s also to his credit that he hits all sides of the spectrum– there are toe tappers and tear jerkers on this album and everything in between. I’m a big fan of the saying, ‘Great songs produce themselves,’ I certainly found that to be true in working with Taylor.”

The album’s bluesy opener “Little Pictures” tips the brim to people like Professor Longhair while having a contemporary social commentary. The song is what Martin calls his, “observation of people being lost to reality and the death of empathy and the human experience. People being on cell phones too much are missing out on the beauty of the world.” It also invites the listener to put down their electronics and sink further into the experience of the album. Americana Highways premieres the official music video for “Little Pictures” and write, “The song rings instantly familiar and simplifies a complex message in clear lyrical fashion, over catchy, punchy, piano-prominent rhythms.”

A resident of Asheville, North Carolina since 2004, Martin has been creating music since 1994. He blends musical styles: the approach to music he grew up with in Richmond, Virginia; the western spirit he experienced living five years in Paradise, Utah; and the sounds of southern rock, country, and rhythm n’ blues.

The album features some of the finest, most innovative musicians in acoustic music today including, not only The Honeycutters’ Amanda Anne Platt, but also their guitarist and pedal steel player, Matthew Smith. Mountain Heart’s Aaron Ramsey (mandolin, acoustic guitar) and Josh Shilling (Piano, B3, Wurlitzer) perform on much of the album along with Jon Stickley Trio’s Lyndsay Pruett on fiddle. Drummer Richie Jones [Ralph Roddenbery, Donna Hopkins Band] and bassist Matt Dufon perform on all eleven tracks. Asheville guitar legend, Aaron “Woody” Wood, takes the lead on acoustic and electric guitars on a handful of tracks, GRAMMY winner Debrissa McKinney (Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, Empire Strikes Brass) lends harmony vocals on a song and Phil Alley adds some texture with his Telecaster on a track.

“I was supported by mostly local musicians for Song Dogs, says Martin. “Josh came in from Nashville and Richie came from Atlanta, but other than that it’s all friends from Asheville. There’s a lot of love on this record. Having close friends record with you really helps the album go deeper.”

“Working on Taylor’s albums has always been an awesome process,” says Josh Shilling.  “His distinct melodies, chord progressions, and organic recording approach create a unique and extremely vibey song and sound. His ability to pull the perfect band together makes the recording sessions feel amazing, and I love that he’s seeking emotional, human performances more than perfect performances. There’s some grit and soul on this record that feels like it came from another time and place… perhaps an Allman Brothers or Leon Russell time and place.”

“I’ve always tried to write from the heart and to do that there just has to be a story underneath,” says Martin. From the catchy “Here Comes The Flood” to the mellow and rolling “Eden Colorado” (with Wood’s expansive guitar solo and the delicate interplay of Smith’s pedal steel) to the dreamlike “Second Sight” (with it’s lucid surf tones and Pruett’s orchestral string arrangement) to the more pop-oriented “Hollywood” (featuring McKinney on harmony vocals), the album will have you hooked.

“Our Memories” is a lonesome duet that reflects on remaining in a home after the love has moved out and the remnants are left behind; Martin and Platt’s vocals intermingle with the sultry fiddle and pedal steel melodies of Pruett and Smith. Another duet with Platt, “Milk and Honey” features Aaron Ramsey on mandolin and is a love song that written over the course of many years to express that even in this numbing technological age people can still be in love in the land of milk and honey.

There are three covers on the album including Bob Dylan’s nostalgic “Sign on the Window” [New Morning], an upbeat and slightly cajun version of Neil Young’s poignant “Music Arcade” [Broken Arrow], and Merle Haggard’s song of tragic loss, “Kern River.”

The album’s title track, “Song Dogs,” lands as the final track and features Shilling on piano paired with Smith’s pedal steel. Martin says, “I spend a ridiculous amount of time in the woods alone. Usually right before dark the coyotes will begin to howl to find each other for the nights hunt. One such evening I wrote these lyrics about the loneliness of the modern age and how difficult it is to ‘stay’ when your heart is restless. And the remorse after you’ve gone too far… I sure do identify with those animals at dusk.”

“Taylor Martin is a singer-songwriter who will remind you of everything good from Tom Waits to the Everly Brothers or the Avett Brothers with some surf rock thrown in. Well-sung, well-played, well-written and relevant…” writes Asheville Citizen Times.

Asheville’s veteran songwriter is just below the forty mark with a bright future as a songwriter and performer ahead of him. Although as jaded and bitter as some road worned heroes, Martin finds refuge in a good sense of humor. “I would have been a terrible dentist,” he laughs. “I’m here, music is why, this is Earth, let’s make more music.”

Taylor Martin – Song Dogs Track Listing

1. Little Pictures   3:34
2. Here Comes the Flood    2:59
3. Eden Colorado   3:17
4. Music Arcade [Neil Young] copyright Silver Fiddle Music   4:25
5. Second Sight   3:41
6. Hollywood   3:41
7. Our Memories   3:49
8. Kern River [Merle Haggard] copyright Mt. Shasta Music   4:00
9. Milk and Honey   3:22
10. Sign on the Window [Bob Dylan] copyright Big Sky Music   3:39
11. Song Dogs   4:49
    
    MUSICIAN CREDITS
    Taylor Martin – Lead Vocals, Acoustic Guitar (all)
    Richie Jones – Drums, Aux Percussion (all)
    Matthew Dufon – Bass (all) Harmony Vocals (2,10)
    Aaron Woody Wood – Acoustic Guitar (3,8), Electric Guitar (5, 6,10)
    Matthew Smith – Electric Guitar (1, 2), Pedal Steel (3,7,8,11)
    Aaron Ramsey – Acoustic Guitar (2,4,7,9,10), Mandolin (9)
    Josh Shilling – Piano (1,2, 6,7, 8,10,11), B3 (1,2,5,6,7,10), Wurlitzer (5)
    Phil Alley – Telecaster (7)
    Lyndsay Pruett – fiddle (4,5,7,8)
    Amanda Anne Platt – harmony  vocals (2,4,7,9,10)
    Debrissa McKinney – harmony vocals (6)
    
    Recorded @ Sound Temple Studios in Asheville, NC
    Recorded & Mixed by Robert George
    Produced by Amanda Anne Platt
    Co-Produced by Robert George & Taylor Martin
    
    For more information and tour dates, please visit www.TaylorMartin.org and www.facebook.com/taylormartin.org and www.twitter.com/song_dogs.

 

Read Full Post »

Anastasia Music Festival Features Del McCoury, David Grisman, Sam Bush, Elephant Revival & More 3/16-18

Anastasia Music Festival is a Three-Day Celebration of Bluegrass Music
At The St. Augustine Amphitheatre Thursday, March 16-Saturday, March 18, 2017

St. Augustine, Fla. — In an epic three-day celebration of traditional and modern bluegrass music, the Anastasia Music Festival will feature over 20 of the brightest bluegrass stars performing live at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre Thursday, March 16 through Saturday, March 18. Bands performing include The Del McCoury Band (two sets), David Grisman’s Bluegrass Experience, Sam Bush, Elephant Revival, Fruition (three sets), Cabinet (two sets), Jeff Austin Band, The Travelin’ McCourys (two sets), Mandolin Orange (two sets), Sierra Hull, The Broomestix, Dustbowl Revival (two sets), Joe Pug, Jon Stickley Trio (two sets), and more! See the daily lineup below and stay tuned for more news about after-parties each night after the music ends at several local venues all three nights.

It’s also quite special to note that three generations of McCourys are represented at Anastasia. The Broomestix, a nine-piece R&B/Soul/Funk/Pop group out of the Nashville area, features Del McCoury’s grandson, Evan McCoury, on guitar, very exciting!

“Bluegrass music has such a rich history and to host a three-day festival celebrating the genre at the Amphitheatre is truly special,” says Ryan Murphy, Director of the St. Johns County Cultural Events Division which owns and operates the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. “We hope that music fans of all ages and families from all over will come out and enjoy traditional and modern bluegrass among the natural park setting of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre.”

This family-friendly event also features a Kid’s Tent on Friday and Saturday featuring fun activities for children and Brenda Star Walker will host daily yoga on Friday and Saturday. Children 10 and under are free with paid adult admission. Information on camping packages and other accommodations are available online at www.anastasiamusicfestival.com.

The Daily Lineup:

Performing on Thursday, March 16 will be Fruition, The Broomestix, Grits & Soul, Nikki Talley, Taylor Martin, and more to be announced. Gates are at 3pm with music starting at 4pm and music ends on Thursday at 10pm.

Friday, March 17 will feature performances by The Del McCoury Band, David Grisman’s Bluegrass Experience, The Travelin’ McCourys, Elephant Revival, Fruition, Cabinet, The Broomestix, Dustbowl Revival, Mandolin Orange, Jon Stickley Trio, Joe Pugg, Grits & Soul, Nikki Talley, Taylor Martin, Flagship Romance, I Like Dandelionsn and Paper Bird. Gates are at 11am with music starting at 12pm and ending at Friday at 10:30pm.

Saturday, March 18 performances include sets by Grateful Ball with The Travelin’ McCourys and Jeff Austin, Sam Bush, The Del McCoury Band, Cabinet, Fruition, The Jeff Austin Band, Sierra Hull, Mandolin Orange, Jon Stickley Trio, Dustbowl Revival, Joe Pugg, Taylor Martin, Nikki Talley, West King Band, Alastair – Byrd Revue, Robbie Dammit & The Broken Stringsn and Remedy Tree. Gates are at 11am with music starting at 12pm and ending at 10:30pm.

Stay tuned for more about each night’s after-parties for a list of venues and bands.

More information on all the performers can be found online at www.anastasiamusicfestival.com  in addition to camping and hotel accommodations, as well as volunteer and vending information. VIP, Three-day, and Single day tickets for the Anastasia Music Festival are on sale now at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and Ponte Vedra Concert Hall Box Offices, online at ticketmaster.com, all authorized TicketMaster outlets, or by phone at 800-745-3000.

Anastasia Music Festival Full Lineup- 2017
The Del McCoury Band x2
David Grisman’s Bluegrass Experience
Sam Bush
Elephant Revival
Fruition x3
Cabinet x2
Jeff Austin Band
The Travelin’ McCourys x2
Mandolin Orange x2
Sierra Hull
The Broomestix x2
Dustbowl Revival x2
Joe Pug
Jon Stickley Trio x2
Grits & Soul x2
Nikki Talley x2
Taylor Martin x2
The Applebutter Express
Paper Bird
Flagship Romance
Town Meeting
West-King String Band
Alastair-Byrd Revue
Remedy Tree
I Like Dandelions
Robbie Dammit & The Broken Strings
Steve Pruett

For more information and to stay up to date on news, please visit www.anastasiamusicfestival.com, www.facebook.com/AnastasiaMusicFestival, www.twitter.com/AnastasiaFest17, www.instagram.com/anastasiafest17, and www.staugamphitheatre.com.

 

Read Full Post »

Celebrating the Life and Music of Billy Constable at Isis on Thurs, Oct 8

Photo 1 is by Scott Woody, photo 2 is by Simply Pickin’ & the 3rd one is by Debbie Ryder

Celebrating the Life and Music of Billy Constable at Isis
Thursday, Oct 8, 2015
7:30pm – 1:00am
743 Haywood Rd, West Asheville, North Carolina 28806
http://isisasheville.com/events/celebrating-the-life-and-times-of-billy-constable-2/

RSVP on Facebook here

Billy Constable was a well-known and much loved bluegrass musician from WNC who had been battling terminal brain cancer for the better part of a year. He lost his battle on Saturday, August 22nd, 2015.

His friends have organized a memorial event, The Billy Constable Memorial Jam, to honor this kind-hearted, talented man and the great contribution he has made to the music community of WNC and beyond. It will take place at Isis Restaurant and Music Hall in West Asheville on Thursday, October 8th from 7:30pm-1am.

“The outpouring of stories and memories online about Constable give an idea of the scope of a life dedicated to musical passion, and they tell the story of a kind, gentle soul, always willing to teach to anyone who wanted to learn,” writes Brian Swenk in Boone’s Mountain Times.

Included will be a memorial slideshow and a celebration of his life in a night of live music with Billy’s longtime musical compadres. We hope you will join us as we celebrate the rich legacy he has left us. Suggested donation is $10 at the door. Proceeds to benefit the Constable family. If you cannot make the show, but would like to donate, please do so at http://www.gofundme.com/nuj8ks

The lineup so far includes:
Sassagrass
Butch Robins
Steve McMurry (of Acoustic Syndicate)
Jon Stickley & Lyndsay Pruett (of Jon Stickley Trio)
Bearwallow (2015 MerleFest Band Competition Winners)
Amanda Platt (of The Honeycutters)
Taylor Martin
Sam Wharton
Darren Nicholson Band (of Balsam Range)
Blue Wheel Drive
Robert Greer (with members of Town Mountain)
Jim Rollins
Adam Masters
Billy Cardine
Bobby Miller
Jason and Jacob Burleson
Mary Lucey

more to be announced

More about Billy Constable:

Born March 23, 1959, Billy Constable was a well known and much loved musician from WNC.

Growing up in Avery county, he came from a rich lineage of musicians including; Lulu Belle and Scotty Wiseman, Lawrence Wiseman, David Wiseman, Fiddling Jimmy Wiseman, banjo picker Kent Wiseman, and Billy’s mother, Lois.

Billy formed his first band Leather Britches, and at the age of 14 he hit the road professionally joining Charlie Moore’s band in the early 1970’s. He went on to play with Doug Dillard and in the 80’s his family band The Constables was formed. They also appeared with the late great Rose Maddox in that band. In addition he played with Dick Tyner and Train 45, Ray Parks, and toured with Kenny Baker and Josh Graves.

In recent years he recorded with the Big Daddy Bluegrass Band with Steve McMurry, and Curtis Burch, Larry Keel, String Cheese Incident, Acoustic Forum, Hypnotic Clambake, and formed his own band Sassagrass.

He has shared the stage picking with; Vassar Clements, John Hartford, Butch Robins, Mac Wiseman, Leftover Salmon, Byron Berline, Sam Bush, Bill Monroe, Lester Flatt, Jim and Jesse, and the Osborne Brothers, to name a few.

Steeped in the rich knowledge of traditional bluegrass and Appalachian music, but reaching far beyond into gypsy jazz and other eclectic forms of music, he is well known as a musician’s musician.

A master of guitar, banjo, and mandolin, Billy has often been credited with teaching his musical compadres how to play and “play it right,” and we have all become better musicians and better people for knowing him.

Thank you Billy, for sharing your gift with us.  ~ written by Deb Ryder

Read Full Post »

Cancer Survivorship Benefit for Sheila Shine at at New Mountain on Tue 7/21 w/ Music & More

Help Sheila Shine On:
A Benefit Extravaganza for Marshall, NC resident Sheila McGuire, aka “Sheila Shine”
at
New Mountain’s Outdoor Courtyard on Tuesday, July 21, 2015
6:30pm doors/ 7pm entertainment; All Ages
Rain or Shine (will be moved indoors if it rains)
Interactive Family Drum Circle with DRUMSTRONG at 7pm
Music, Poetry, Hula Hoops & more!
Silent Auction/ Raffle; $10 Suggested Donation (includes raffle ticket)
Office: 828.785.1701
38 N French Broad Ave • Asheville, NC 28801
www.newmountainavl.com

Schedule of Events
6:30-7:00 Arrival
7:00-8:00 DRUMSTRONG Family Drum Circle
8:00-8:15 Barbie Angell
8:15-9:00 Big F’N Deal Band (Bluegrass)
9:00-9:15 Barbie Angell/David Weber
9:15-10:00 Yess I (Reggae)
10:00-10-15 Barbie Angell – Drawing
10:00-11:30 Risin’ Shiners (Miller, Matulich, Parks, Stack, Martin, Martin, Pruett)
11:30-? Drums / Selector Az-iZ (Adrian Zelski of DubConscious) DJ Set

ASHEVILLE, NC — Life has ways of testing the strength and endurance of us in this world. Last year, Sheila McGuire, or Sheila Shine as most know her, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although she is now receiving Medicaid, the financial burden of having not been able to work, coupled with other health care and living costs, has put her livelihood in jeopardy. In the midst of her health crisis, Sheila has also been fighting to keep her beloved mountain sanctuary home Spirits Rising, in Little Pine Valley of Marshall where she has lived since 2007, which is facing foreclosure. It is difficult enough to endure a trauma to one’s physical body, let alone have trauma in their sense of security and place of refuge.

New Mountain in Asheville has generously offered their space to host multiple benefits, in which Sheila is actively participating in, throughout the coming months with the first being held on Tuesday, July 21st in the outdoor courtyard. Performers set for the evening include The Risin’ Shiners (ft. Bobby Miller, Taylor Martin, Drew Matulich, Josh Stack, Rob Parks, Griff Martin, and Lyndsay Pruett), Selector Az-iZ (Adrian Zelski of DubConscious), The Big F’N Deal Band, Yess I, Melmac Pink of Asheville Hoops, Kenny the Clown, poetry by Barbie Angell and David Weber.

Doors open at 6:30pm with an Interactive Family Drum Circle with DRUMSTRONG starting at 7pm. Led by Kennon Knight; Dan McDermitt, and Kim Nelson of DRUMSTRONG; Drew Heller & Justin Perkins of Toubab Krewe & of Les Amis; Adama Dembele of Zansa & Les Amis & others! Bring your drum for an opening ceremony to drum in honor of, or in memory of, for your own fortification or just out of the goodness of your heart.

There will also be a silent auction/ raffle and educational materials on site including information from Mission Hospital’s Ladies Night Out program. $10 suggested donation for the event (Includes a raffle ticket).

DRUMSTRONG is a supporting partner in the “Help Sheila Shine On” events where folks will enjoy great music, solid health resources, great art/raffles, fun activities, and a powerful drum circle to BEAT cancer. DrumsForCures produces DRUMSTRONG events raising awareness & funds in support of cancer survivorship, education & research through Rhythm. All cancers, All populations are represented. DRUMSTRONG’s Scott Swimmer writes, “Join DRUMSTRONG Rhythm as we celebrate survivorship and boost our dear friend Sheila to higher ground. Lord knows she needs your support; and in doing so, also benefit thousands of people globally.”

For each benefit, we are seeking donated items such as artwork, music/ art lessons, gift certificates to local businesses & restaurants, and other creative ideas. We are also in the planning phases for the events further out; if you would like to perform, contribute, or have any other creative ideas, please do let us know. There are benefits planned each month up through the end of the year; please stay tuned for details.

Sheila Shine. Photo by Leigh Monson.

Sheila has been a good warrior and has been fighting for life. Since August 19, 2014, she has endured five cancer surgeries including a double mastectomy, along with dealing with chronic back pain from an injury she sustained when hit by a drunk driver in 2005. Her final surgery blessedly came back with positive results of being cancer free as of June 19th, 2015. She still has to be careful, especially with her nutritional needs and stress levels. She’s out of the woods and feeling much better, but she still has a long road paved with more surgeries and medication regimens ahead of her.

Now let’s help her get back on her feet financially. With the support of a wide network of friends and festival family, Sheila has been able to open up and talk about her experience with others and is working toward manifesting her dream of making her home a mountain retreat for musicians and others with cancer to recuperate. She has been receiving much support within her community of friends worldwide.

The Sheila Shine Fund will blossom by your participating in committing to share your pulse and making tax deductible donations through DrumsForCures’ 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Donate via PayPal at scott@drumstrong.org and make sure to note the donation is in honor of in honor of Sheila Shine on the email. This charitable Contribution to DrumStrong will give money to Spirits Rising directly with  10% going to DrumsForCures.

Friends of Sheila Shine have also created a Go Fund Me account for anyone that would like to donate: www.gofundme.com/SheilaShineFund. Stay up to date with more news from Sheila & Friends and about the benefits at her facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/SheilaShineOn.

Stay up to date with more news from Sheila & Friends at her facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/SheilaShineOn.

Read Full Post »

Benefit for Cancer Awareness & Support: “Help Sheila Shine On” at New Mountain on Tue 7/21 w/ Music & More

Help Sheila Shine On:
A Benefit Extravaganza for Marshall, NC resident Sheila McGuire, aka “Sheila Shine”
at
New Mountain’s Outdoor Courtyard on Tuesday, July 21, 2015
7pm doors/ 8pm music; All Ages; Silent Auction/ Raffle
Office: 828.785.1701
38 N French Broad Ave • Asheville, NC 28801
www.newmountainavl.com

Entertainment by
The Risin’ Shiners:
ft. Bobby Miller, Taylor Martin, Drew Matulich, Josh Stack & Rob Parks,
Adrian Zelski spinning world beats, The Big F’N Deal Band,
Melmac Pink of Asheville Hoops, Kenny the Clown,
a Drum Circle and Other Activities with DRUMSTRONG,
as well as poetry by Barbie Angell and David Weber

DRUMSTRONG is a Supporting Partner
DrumsForCures produces DRUMSTRONG™ events globally raising awareness and funds in support of cancer education, research and survivorship through Rhythm
www.drumstrong.org

Stay up to date with more news from Sheila and about the benefits at her facebook group → www.facebook.com/groups/SheilaShineOn

ASHEVILLE, NC — Life has ways of testing the strength and endurance of us in this world. Last year, Sheila McGuire, or Sheila Shine as most know her, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although she is now receiving Medicaid, the financial burden of having not been able to work, coupled with other health care and living costs, has put her livelihood in jeopardy. In the midst of her health crisis, Sheila has also been fighting to keep her beloved mountain sanctuary home Spirits Rising, in Little Pine Valley of Marshall where she has lived since 2007, which is facing foreclosure. It is difficult enough to endure a trauma to one’s physical body, let alone have trauma in their sense of security and place of refuge.

Sheila Shine. Photo by Leigh Monson.

Sheila has been a good warrior and has been fighting for life. Since August 19 2014, she has endured five surgeries including a double mastectomy, along with dealing with chronic back pain from an injury she sustained when hit by a drunk driver in 2005. Her final surgery blessedly came back with positive results of being cancer free as of June 19th, 2015. She still has to be careful, especially with her nutritional needs and stress levels. She’s out of the woods and feeling much better, but she still has a long road paved with more surgeries and medication regimens ahead of her.

Now let’s help her get back on her feet financially. With the support of a wide network of friends and festival family, Sheila has been able to open up and talk about her experience with others and is working toward manifesting her dream of making her home a mountain retreat for musicians and others with cancer to recuperate. She has been receiving much support within her community of friends worldwide.

In Asheville, New Mountain has generously offered their space to host multiple benefits, in which Sheila is actively participating in, throughout the coming months with the first being held on Tuesday, July 21st in the outdoor courtyard. Performers set for the evening include The Risin’ Shiners (ft. Bobby Miller, Taylor Martin, Drew Matulich, Josh Stack, and Rob Parks), Adrian Zelski spinning world beats, The Big F’N Deal Band, Melmac Pink of Asheville Hoops, Kenny the Clown, a drum circle and other activities with DRUMSTRONG, as well as poetry by Barbie Angell and David Weber. Doors will open at 7pm and the music starts at 8pm. There will also be a silent auction/ raffle and educational materials on site.

DRUMSTRONG is a supporting partner in the “Help Sheila Shine On” events where folks will enjoy great music, solid health resources, great art/raffles, fun activities, and a powerful drum circle to BEAT cancer. DrumsForCures produces DRUMSTRONG events raising awareness & funds in support of cancer survivorship, education & research through Rhythm. All cancers, All populations are represented. DRUMSTRONG’s Scott Swimmer writes, “Join DRUMSTRONG Rhythm as we celebrate survivorship and boost our dear friend Sheila to higher ground. Lord knows she needs your support; and in doing so, also benefit thousands of people globally.” Bring your drum for an opening ceremony to drum in honor of, or in memory of, for your own fortification or just out of the goodness of your heart.

The Sheila Shine Fund will blossom by your participating in committing to share your pulse and making tax deductible donations through DrumsForCures’ 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Donate via PayPal at scott@drumstrong.org and note in honor of Sheila Shine.

For each benefit, we are seeking donated items such as artwork, music/ art lessons, gift certificates to local businesses & restaurants, and other creative ideas. We are also in the planning phases for the events further out; if you would like to perform, contribute, or have any other creative ideas, please do let us know.

People Sheila calls “Angels” and great manifestation have kept Sheila moving forward through these trying times, however, it is time for the community and circles of loving relationships that she has created to come back and help Sheila to keep shining. When we give for those in need we are truly giving of self.  Please come and celebrate life with Sheila, reconnect, meet a beautiful shining soul and support her as she travels this road.

Friends of Sheila Shine have also created a Go Fund Me account for anyone that would like to donate: www.gofundme.com/SheilaShineFund. Stay up to date with more news from Sheila & Friends and about the benefits at her facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/SheilaShineOn.

MORE ABOUT SHEILA & SPIRITS RISING:
Sheila “Shine” McGuire has touched countless lives and grew up in the sunshine state where she was an integral part of the alternative music, dance and performance scene. She was drawn to the energy and lush mountains of WNC in 2007 from Fort Lauderdale, Fl with the idea in mind of a place called Spirits Rising, nestled high on the mountains, next to a riverbank, with lots of trees. She found the physical manifestation of this in her home, which was an unfinished shell of a cabin upon arrival, with a mud pit for a road, and needed a lot of work to make it into what it is today. Sheila has since shared use of her home with many a traveler and musicians passing through, providing a safe haven and place to relax in nature and regroup.

This all stems from a vision she had when she was younger. Growing up, the youngest of twelve children, her first hero, a visionary and developer, her father Martin J. McGuire, owned a resort and nightclub in Indian Harbour Beach, FL. A variety of acts passed through to perform at the venue, including The Village People, of whom Sheila recalls feeling empathy for their weariness from being on the road so much and having to stay in hotels all the time, away from family. As she lived her life and became more involved with her “festival family” and network, she held onto this vision. Over a decade ago she wrote of it in her journal, “At Spirits Rising, we are a team, we are a tribe, we were put on this earth to get something done. There will be a teacher, a healer, chef, poet, and a clown.” Sheila now says, “All of these people have all seemingly magically arrived here at one point or another. This honestly is a house that love built.”

The vision of Spirits Rising started as a place for musicians to convene and retreat, a gift back for musicians because she is so grateful for all they do, as well as being a legacy for her father (who passed in 1998) and all he did in life. As she got older, she starting having friends with health problems and terminal illness and envisioned Spirits Rising to be a sanctuary for them as well. When she was officially diagnosed with breast cancer last year, she realized that she also needed this space for herself to recuperate in those same ways. As friends traveled in from coast to coast to help her out, she saw how her childhood vision has become her mission in life: To create a healthy & musical space and support base for those in need.

Sheila Shine standing in the center of the “O” when she motivated folks to spell out “LOVE” at a music festival.

Her life changed completely when she started going to music festivals with the first Langerado (of which she attended every year) and also with her experience at the first Jam Cruise in 2004 and beyond; she immersed herself in the sense of family and community that comes with it. She loves every bit of the festivals, all the love, fun meeting people, dancing, hooping, and hugging, as well as keeping an eye out for anyone in need at the event, and, of course, the music.

After moving to the Asheville area she started hosting an interactive art and music extravaganza “Circles of Love” at various events including Transformus, Bear Creek, AshFest, Loki, and others. Jambase called it, “a traveling circus style art collective… The whole place felt like Never Never Land, where the lost boys finally find a place to call home.” Folks would bring stringed instruments, drums, hula hoops, and lots LOVE; entering a circle of space to just be themselves. Sheila and her friend Wesley Teregan set up a “chill space” with a tent, provided access to free water, had an educational area, and areas for painting, fire performances, as well as an intimate stage. “Participate or Relocate” was the theme, drawing from the creativity of all those who were there. Sheila says she does it, “Because a lot of people really need it; the feeling of being welcomed, accepted, and loved.” She goes on to say, “Usually the ones resistant to participating tend to be the ones that need it most. Sheila believes everyone has an artist inside them and that, “We all shine with love and light, if we let ourselves.”

Circles of community fan out around Sheila like a mandala. Always one to create space for friends, Sheila has provided a loving heart and warm smile for those she has known for years, as well as those she may have just met. Life is full of Angels and possibilities, and circles of love surround it all wherever Sheila goes. Her home has been a respite for the weary traveler, a mountain retreat to find a sense of place and soul, and a sanctuary for musicians where music is integrated into the space like the trees in the forest. Spirits Rising has been a manifestation making its way into reality and has been a place of stillness and peace for all who set foot on the mountainside.

Stay up to date with more news from Sheila & Friends at her facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/SheilaShineOn.

Read Full Post »

Taylor Martin’s Album Release Celebration at Isis on Sat, Jan 10, 2015

Taylor Martin’s Album Release Celebration at Isis on Sat, Jan 10, 2015
8:30 PM show/ 5pm doors; $8 Advance / $10 At the Door
General Admission Seated Show :: Limited Tables Available with Dinner Reservations.
There will also be theater-style & balcony seating and standing available on a first come first serve basis

Isis Music Hall
828-575-2737
743 Haywood Road Asheville, NC 28806
http://isisasheville.com/events/taylor-martin-cd-release-celebration/

Taylor Martin’s Album Heartache or Bust Features Stuart Duncan, Cody Kilby, Aaron Ramsey & more
Honest and Raw Tales of Love, Barroom Nights & Heartache
Overlaid Onto a Tapestry of Stringed Instruments along with B3 Hammond, Drums & Horns

For the past ten years in Asheville’s own Taylor Martin has been one of the area’s premier singer-songwriters. His raspy, emotion filled voice is instantly recognizable and his lyrics have an unflinching sincerity. Taylor has released a new record — Heartache or Bust — featuring Grammy winning artists Stuart Duncan and Cody Kilby as well as members of bluegrass supergroup, Mountain Heart.

To recreate these recordings in a live setting as Taylor Martin’s Acoustic Band, Martin has assembled some of the finest instrumentalist in Western North Carolina. The Indomitable Lyndsay Pruett on fiddle, bluegrass ninja Drew Matulich on mandolin, and Rick Cooper (of The Honeycutters) on upright bass. They will be performing at Isis Music Hall in Asheville on Saturday, Jan 10, 2015 to celebrate the release of Heartache or Bust. Joining the band as special guest for the evening are also Josh Milligan (The Honeycutters) on drums, as well as other special guests. “Taylor’s songwriting and taste in good music definitely add strength to the reputation the Asheville area has for having one of the best music scenes in the country. Heartache Or Bust has got some great new songs on it” says WNCW’s Martin Anderson.

“After 2009’s Engine, I wanted to put out an album which would contain material that had a chance to mature through live performances.” Taylor Martin goes on to say, “The songs were coming fast and I wanted the recording to happen with the same intensity. With the help of my co-producer and engineer Eric Willson (Omni Records), I was able to gather some of my favorite local and national musicians and lay down the initial tracks in Echo Mountain Studio while they were feeling new and very inspired.” Much of the album was  recorded at Omni Artist Studios where the album was mastered and there is also one live track mixed in. There is one cover on the album “Once in a While” and was sung by Taylor’s grandfather Jack Baldwin. He recorded his vocals and piano in the late 1940s and Taylor decided to add some the instruments that would have been typically used in his day.

In the release of Heartache or Bust, Taylor Martin has created a wonderfully written, beautifully played, and well-recorded mix of fresh original music. All twelve tunes are played by some of the finest, most cutting edge musicians in acoustic music today — Stuart Duncan on fiddle, Cody Kilby (Ricky Skaggs) on acoustic and electric guitars, and Aaron Ramsey (Mountain Heart) on bass guitar, bouzouki, banjo, mandolin and dobro. The album also features tracks with Acoustic Syndicate’s Jay Sanders on bass; John Gardner on drums (James Taylor, Don Williams); Josh Shilling on B3 hammond, piano, and vocals; Drew Matulich on guitar; as well as wonderful vocalists, Molly Cherryholmes and Rorey Carroll amongst other musicians.

Even with all that studio musician prowess, the recording avoids the common pitfalls of “music business slickness” and “corporately modified arrangements.” While the songs are simple, they’re not simplistic. Engaging melodies, lyrics, bass guitar lines, and sonic choices allow the songs to breathe and maintain their evident roots influences of folk-rock and newgrass, and are topped off with the sweet singer-songwriter delivery of Martin’s adept vocals. This record covers a wide range of emotions and tells a story throughout to give the listener something new to hear with each track.

The sound is big but never loud, an almost living room rock ensemble that could fill both a small club and large theatre; a sonic balance hard to achieve in an acoustic ensemble with drums, yet they’ve done it. That the music is played together in ensemble fashion creates a kind of mountain-top chamber orchestra feel to some of the tunes. Martin’s singing is about the song. His voice is tender, vulnerable, and honest in nature, never losing the “eye contact” in his vocal delivery, a quality that is his hallmark throughout the recording. Acclaimed banjoist, Jeff Mosier, calls the album “one of the most fresh, organic, and original collections…I have heard in a long time…”

The lyrics are modern, yet firmly rooted in the deep traditions of Martin’s extended Southern heritage. Though you can hear the influences of early pioneers like Bill Monroe, the music is definitely one of the most fresh, organic, and original collections of songs and arrangements that I have heard in a long time. It represents to me what is still yet to come from the ever growing world of new acoustic, progressive, and alternative Americana. Taylor Martin will make his mark with this terrific work of original acoustic music. Taylor Martin says the album is ,”an invaluable lesson in songwriting: rely more on personal experience than on imagination….it was a real artistic awakening for me.”

For more about Taylor Martin, please visit www.TaylorMartin.org

Read Full Post »

Ty Gilpin Releases “Crooked Hollows” ~ A Solo Project Featuring Pickers from the Asheville Music Scene

Ty Gilpin Releases “Crooked Hollows”

A Solo Project Featuring Pickers from the Asheville Music Scene

www.TyGilpin.com

Crooked Hollows on iTunes

A veteran of the Asheville music scene, Ty Gilpin steps out with a solo project that aims to capture the essence of the Asheville Roots music world with his new release Crooked Hollows.

Gilpin is no stranger to any aspect of the music business. He is a performer, songwriter, vocalist and player with multiple groups and has worked for over a decade on his own and with Crossroads/Mountain Home Music doing marketing and promotion for some of the biggest names in Bluegrass. Now he has recorded his own songs with a select group of talented peers.

Don’t get it wrong, this is not a Bluegrass album, although there are cuts that lend itself to the genre. Gilpin’s release Crooked Hollows is an eclectic mix of Americana, Folk-Rock, Irish and even includes an electronic remix.

All the tracks feature names that are not just a staple of the local music scene but rather a Who’s Who of folks that are known both in North Carolina as well as nationally.

“With all the different types of songs the cd has, I felt like each one called for different vocalists.” Gilpin says. “I wanted each track to have it’s own identity and include my talented friends to give the songs a special feel but also to make the recording a community event that celebrated what I believe to be some of the best artists here or anywhere.”

The lead off track “Queen of the Crows” includes Cody Kilby, guitarist from Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, noted banjo picker Steve Sutton and female folk troubadour Jen Duke who joins Gilpin on vocals. The dynamic selection of songs moves to country themes including “Smiling for the Camera” featuring the vocals of Darren Nicholson of Balsam Range and the song “Losers Like Me” with Town Mountain vocalist Robert Greer. Other contributions come from the vocals of Amanda Platt of the celebrated Asheville group, The Honeycutters, as well as from Buddy Melton of Balsam Range, Lance Mills, Sav Sankaran and singer-songwriter Taylor Martin.

Keeping to the diversity of the music, there is an Irish element on the track “Going to the West”, sung by Duke and concludes with an even further musical departure featuring a re-mix of “Queen of the Crows” by Danny Peck (aka dep) who blends acoustic and electronic elements for a hauntingly beautiful finale.

The line-up also includes, Charles Humphrey III of the Steep Canyon Rangers, Josh Haddix of the Greasy Beans, Rick Cooper, Jessica Smith, multi-instrumentalists Matt Smith, Duncan Wickel and Tim Gardner as well a studio drummer extraordinaire Tony Creasman.

All tracks were written and arranged by Gilpin and produced by Gilpin and Tim Gardner. Tracks 2-7 were recorded at Coyote Ridge Studios in Asheville with the lead off track recorded at Omni-Artists Studios in Weaverville by Eric Willson. The album was mixed and mastered by Van Atkins at Crossroads Studios in Arden, NC.

The official street date for Ty Gilpin’s Crooked Hollows is September 18th. The album is available at CD Baby and iTunes. Visit www.tygilpin.com for information on the release and links to buy.

Read Full Post »

Donna the Buffalo & Friends full closing set from Suwannee Springfest!

Donna the Buffalo & Friends full closing set from Suwannee Springfest! Great intro by Randy, Beth, Lyle and Paul– thank you for a wonderful festival!! 🙂 Special musical guests enter the stage about an hour in and include Randy Judy, Sean Foley, Verlon Thompson, Rashad from Tornado Rider, Donna Hopkins, Ralph Roddenbery, Richie Jones, Samantha Allesi-Jones, Taylor Martin, Bobby Miller, Fil Pate….

Read Full Post »