Album Reviews

Malcolm Holcombe

Engineer Ray Kennedy was as critical to Steve Earle’s success as anyone. Now Kennedy once again lends his magic to the rugged North Carolinian songsmith Malcolm Holcombe on this, Holcombe’s … Read more

Johnny Rawls

With the recent passing of Rawls’ good friend and soul brother, Otis Clay, we have to appreciate and savor deep soul music even more. There are not many artists left … Read more

Birds Of Chicago

At first glance, the comparisons between Birds of Chicago and Alabama Shakes might seem apparent. Both are interracial bands helmed by women with a powerful presence. Each outfit draws on … Read more

Piney Gir

It’s easy to get keen on Piney Gir right off the bat. With a storied discography rife with covers, genre-bending pleasures (think Creation-era rock fused with country) and an overall … Read more

Carrie Rodriguez

For those approaching Social Security, Lola, will no doubt bring back mixed recollections of Ronstadt’s Cancciones de mi Padre (1987). There are similarities, the obvious being how the two voices … Read more

Tim Williams

Impeccably-picked and sung acoustic blues music rarely fails to stir the soul. Canadian expat Tim Williams takes it steps further on So Low, adding his own special touches. Cleverly, So … Read more

The Record Company

Give It Back To You marks the full-length debut of Los Angeles-based trio, The Record Company. Taking their cues from more traditional blues and classic rock n’ roll, the group … Read more

Wynonna Judd

Wynonna and the Big Noise is Wynonna Judd’s first studio album in 13 years, and it’s worth the wait. Is happiness a sound? Should joy be listed as writing credit … Read more

The Miamis

They played fast and they played loud, but the last thing The Miamis were was punk. In fact, their peppy, energetic tunes come off as Lemon Pledge, bringing a little … Read more

Matt Kivel

The title track of Kivel’s latest solo release, Janus, introduces us to his blend of folk, slow instrumentation and hints of classic, jazz and even pop (the second track, “Violets,” seems to … Read more