What a great visit to Nashville we had for the Americana Music Festival this past September. I love that we can barrel into a town known for the glitzy side of country music, and not even be phased by it. The last time I was there it was to work on a project that involved George Jones, and this time I was surrounded by top-notch Americana artists. The way I see it, I'm two-fer-two on Nashville trips!

Our sessions got a dose of Tennessee authenticity when Nashville's own Jonell Mosser stepped on board the Celebrity Coach. She brought her fun-loving, laid-back attitude, a huge smile, and couple of comfy songs. Some people watching the session cracked open a bottle of Jack, and Jonell busted out the Tennessee Blues. That's Tom Britt on guitar, and Jimmie Fadden from the NGDB on harp. Yes, this thing drips with authenticity.

-Aaron

This long holiday weekend made me think about the times we used to have after Thanksgiving, years ago. That's when the cousins, friends, neighbors and visiting relatives would all get together and just hang out. Usually some innocent trouble was found, probably rooted from simply having that many people together with nothing to do. Something is bound to go wrong in this small "one flashing light" town, huh?

Otis Gibbs is telling the more peaceful version, I think, with sweeter memories, indeed. In fact, he'll never be able to produce a video for this song because it won't match the pictures that each of us have in our head while listening to this gem. A true flashback...I love it! Oh, and bonus "cool factor" points to Otis for A.) dedication to the beard and B.) not snipping his guitar string ends.

I hope you're diggin' a small town Saturday night somewhere!

-Aaron

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.

-Aaron