Album Reviews

Jeff Plankenhorn

Widely respected Austin-based and in-demand session guitarist Jeff Plankenhorn steps forth with both a solo project and his newly designed guitar which carries his nickname, “The Plank.” The guitar is … Read more

Albert Collins

Ever the philosopher, guitarist Carlos Santana once proclaimed, “A man’s tone is his face.”  Santana’s words ring especially true when describing the late bluesman Albert Collins.  Beneath Collins’ tough, weathered … Read more

The Brothers Comatose

After solidifying their reputation through constant touring and two stellar previous releases, the Brothers Comatose’s latest effort offers a case study in tightly tailored musicianship and the kind of close-knit … Read more

Hotel Lights

It boggles the mind at times when one considers how much memorable music is currently available for consumption, but that it somehow still flies too far below the radar to … Read more

Wayfaring Strangers

The first track on Cosmic American Music feels like an old soul. This is the music you would find on a record in your parents’ basement. It’s something you heard … Read more

John Cale

Dubbed a “complete new reworking” of his 1982 album Music For A New Society, Cale’s sixteenth studio album looks backwards in more ways than one. For starters, there’s the fact … Read more

Marlon Williams

Building on a promising career begun in 2007, this self-titled debut from New Zealand native Marlon Williams is an assured record of country and folk-flecked sincerity. Album opener “Hello Miss … Read more

Brett Harris

“Up in the air” was a phrase that struck true for Brett Harris. At a time when his peers were moving into their 30s with careers or more conventional ways … Read more

Bonita & The Blues Shacks

Bonita & The Blues Shacks is the collaborative effort of European blues band, B.B. and the Blues Shacks and South African singer, Bonita Niessen. In a clear ode to mid-century … Read more

SouthSide Drive

SouthSide Drive’s Randy Bowling and Gwen Hana take listeners to church with their self-titled original CD, A New Sound in Country Gospel Music. The album’s first track, a rhythm and … Read more