Before the Music Dies

This documentary has been out for several years, but I was reminded of its importance when Fan Reporter Jeff sent out a Tweet the other day. When "Before the Music Dies" premiered in 2005, my former boss at XM (Lee Abrams) set up a private screening in DC and basically forced the entire programming department to check it out. It's an extremely important film for any music fan, especially if you are into a genera like Americana, which is--for the most part--ignored by traditional media.

-Ben Krech

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Discovery: Matt Morris

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You just never know where it will come from, but "trusted sources" is always a good start for music recommendations. You know that most of the artists we captured at SXSW I have history with, or awareness of, at the very least. But sometimes you book someone on faith, and so it was with Matt Morris. This is from his website: 


Onward and Upward! 

Matt had an amazing run in 2008. He released his EP "Backstage at Bonnaroo," kicked off the Bonnaroo Music Festival as the opening performer, embarked on a fantastic 21 city tour with Joan Osborne, and then went out on his own for select dates. If you think that sounds like a lot, just stay tuned for what he has planned in 2009! Keep checking MattMorris.net for updates.


What we can tell you is that his CD, produced by Charlie Sexton, will be hitting the street in the fourth quarter. We can also tell you when he played his set for us at Threadgill's, the room was enchanted. We can also tell you that his voice was a revelation, or you could just check it out yourself, right now!


-Jessie Scott

Americana Revolution Review #003: Chuck Mead

Chuck Mead Album Cover Chuck Mead has way too much fun marrying the story songs back to the emphatic and energetic music. And about dang time it is for this long awaited solo album from the BR549 frontman: Journeyman's Wager. What you have here is a full spectrum of flavors. Finger licking good, I might add. Lots of wonderful layering of instruments, thanks to the deft production hand of Ray Kennedy, and stellar sidemen Kenny Vaughn, Audley Freed, Mark Miller, Mark Horn, Dave Roe, Mike Henderson, Pat Sivers and Jen Gunderman.  And Chuck is in fine form, it will make you feel good! Pay special attention to:

Out On The Natchez Trail - pure spunk, oh yeah, it takes you there!

Gun Metal Gray - slow burning blues

I Wish It Was Friday - this one bounces and rolls so easy

After The Last Witness Is Gone - Southern roadhouse swagger

In A Song - stone country, major sweet, sing along

Old Brown Shoe - hypnotic drums and keys, with touches of 60's sensibility, this kicks

--With love from Jessie Scott