Juni Habel – “Run dry”-The fingerpicking in this track is really good. I appreciate the intimate recording style here that makes it feel like the listener is inside the song. The lead vocal is smooth and demands your attention. This is classic Americana …
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Three acoustic folk tunes to bring you calm
Thomas Lavine – “Rivers”-This is a peaceful and engaging tune. The opening vocal is really inviting and good. Once the harmonies enter the track, I felt like I was transported to a magical place. There’s something sweetly moving throughout the track, like reading …
The Week That Is: : 3 Best Songwriters You NEED to Hear
Vikki Gilmore – “Doubt of my Mind” This a doubtful and uncertain time. Days like these, however, bring some of the best art. The new single by the tremendous Gilmore, is aptly titled and expertly played. With a mood that rings true deep …
Dialing in Vintage Vibes: The Art and Science of Tube Amplifiers
Within both music creation and appreciation, the tools and technologies we use play pivotal roles. While the allure of analog tones and vintage recording equipment remains undiminished, the digital age has ushered in a suite of tools that promise to simplify the way …
Three Americana tracks that’ll put a smile on your face
Skyway Man – “Old swingin’ bell”-These lyrics are hilarious and amazing. Imagine a gospel tune about drinking a stiff drink. It’s really great. I love everything about the spirit and style of this track. The throwback energy is excellent. I feel like I …
Weekly Best: 3 Incredible Indie Rock Tracks
Conversing with Oceans – “Life” We absolutely love the newer direction on the latest from Conversing with Ocean. We have covered much of their releases, yet this one has a more rising rock edge that makes it absolutely compelling and a must-listen. “Life” …
The Rayes: Hopeful Americana for All
Some of the best musical performances happen on the bustling streets. Such is the case with The Rayes. Led by sisters Jordan Stobbe (bass/vocals, 24) and Rebecca Stobbe (rhythm guitar/vocals), they honed their craft busking in Seattle before eventually recording. The result is …
Three engaging new folk tunes including Beta Radio, Bo Armstrong, and Ryan Trager
Beta Radio – “Way of love”-I once tried to get Beta Radio to play at a college where I was teaching. They just seem like the perfect band for a college campus, you know? It’s such a delightful, inspiring, harmonic sound from Beta …
Three neoclassical pieces to set a peaceful mood
Val Giamo – “Jade”-This piece has a lovely jazz core to it. You might not hear it on first listen, but some of the chord developments feel like early jazz to me. The easy articulation on the piano makes for a very peaceful …
Three remarkable folk tunes to improve your week
The Paper Kites – “For all you give” (ft. Lucy Rose)-We cover a lot of folk duos around here, so it’s really something when one stands out like this. It’s a beautiful, thoughtful, engaging style. The peaceful delivery of each vocal line works …



