Those who know Chris Smither's solo work may be surprised by the spare, powerful trio he's put together for his latest album Time Stands Still. The full story behind the trio is here, and we were fortunate to catch them recently at The Birchmere in Virginia.
During soundcheck, Chris wanted to make sure his vocals were coming through clearly, explaining simply, "If they can't hear the words, I think they'll be missing out on about fifty percent of the value of my performance." So pay attention, you don't want to miss any fraction of this great cut! Or better yet, catch them live while you can.
The wait is coming closer to an end! Somewhere In Time, the newest project from Reckless Kelly, will be released on February 9, 2010. They've posted a preview track from the CD, along with a cooool-ass album cover, on their website for all to soak in. Meanwhile, they've got some Texas dates leading up to their appearance at The MusicFest in Steamboat Springs. Click below to hear the tune...and rock it!
I first saw Chuck Mead play in Bakersfield, CA at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, back in 1996. I loved that debut BR5-49 album, and was even more dazzled watching them perform in my hometown, during the inaugural year of the Palace. Chuck continues to impress me and is keeping the Bakersfield honky-tonk sound alive. The further we get away from that era, it seems like the fewer musicians there are embracing that rich, classic feel. Of course, Chuck lunges towards it with open arms, and a song on his sleeve. To me, his Journeyman's Wager album is like a sonic ride through my youth, but ever so relevant to today. See if you can picture yourself sitting around a campfire, with a jet-black sky full of bright stars, the night breeze floating through the pines, and Chuck with just his lone guitar singing Up On Edge Hill. Yup, you can see for miles and miles.