Chris Knight "Hell Ain't Half Full"

What a day it was yesterday in Austin. 75, blue skies, countdown to SXSW is ON! It actually feels like "South By" has already started as the musical pilgrims are straggling into town for their first taste of spring. And it was just a magical musical day for me, too. I had dinner with Chris Berardo, then we ran the clubs. The Continental for the AMAZING Stone River Boys! Then to Threadgill's North for the SWEET music of Stonehoney. And then the nightcap, the SMOKING David Beck and The Well Dressed Thieves at The Saxon Pub. And you know, I am so thankful to be here, to be amidst this many splendored music. All who get to do what they love need to take a knee, and think for a moment about the luck of the draw. Because it could be different for any one of us.

Chris Knight knows. His stark portraits of American life resonate deeply, authentically. And there is a sense of balance, to open oneself up to these tales of not doing well, or right, of having to make a deal with the devil to eke out a living which then becomes one's prison, no life at all. So while we prepare for the good---the return of balmy weather, of good times; do something to help someone who is not. Bring a little sunshine into someone else's world. A smile, a touch, a helping hand. I don't know if that will change someone's life. But if we deal in kindness, it has got to help. Here's some pain in, "Hell Ain't Half Full." There but for fortune.

-Jessie

Keep the Light Alive "I Don't Believe In Yesterday"

Keep The Light Alive. One hell of an idea. For hope, for inspiration, for life. For Eric Lowen. As you might already know, Eric was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) around 6 years ago. Since that time, he has chosen to live with purpose. Dan Navarro, of Lowen and Navarro, says, "Eric makes that his commitment every day." Dan, himself, is uncomfortable being included in a "tribute" album, as he chooses to deflect the attention. This project simply celebrates Eric Lowen, and the contributions that he makes as a singer, songwriter, and performer. As Dan has tried to take the focus off himself, we credit this performance accordingly, even though it is Dan with the legendary Freebo at the helm.

For more information on the project, check out the website here. This album supports The Eric Lowen Trust, which was created to offset the enormous costs of fighting his illness and helps support his family, which includes his wife and their 5 children. Music Fog is honored to have had these fine musicians on the bus during Folk Alliance to further the cause.

-Jessie

Rhythm Angels "29 Ways"

Get ready to soak in some rich, velvety harmonies. Rebecca Folsom and Celeste Krenz have voices that were meant to be blended together. Their sound was a welcome savior on our second morning of filming aboard the Celebrity Coaches bus in Memphis. I believe it was only our second session of the day, but we were already running late and had to quickly figure out where to place everybody in this tight space to achieve the best sound, and get the right look for the cameras. The arrival of their cellist was a surprise, so I quickly broke out the old standby line, "There's always room for cello." They were kind enough to act like they'd never heard that joke before, but probably wondered if I had been drinking already. Well, moments later my head was floatin' in what you're about to hear. Whether this is your first introduction to the Rhythm Angels, or you've been to this church before, I think you'll agree everyone is groovin' on this track, "29 Ways."

-Aaron