12th ANNUAL SAN FRANCISCO BLUEGRASS AND OLD-TIME FESTIVAL CELEBRATES PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF AMERICANA AND ROOTS MUSIC
The events of the 12th annual San Francisco Bluegrass and Old-Time Festival (SFBOT) will explore and celebrate the past, present and future of bluegrass and old-time music through performances, dances and workshops. The 10-day festival runs from Feb. 11-20 and comprises more than 30 shows at numerous small clubs around the Bay Area featuring some of the most talented musicians on the Americana and roots music scene today.
Highlights of this year’s festival includes Bay Area favorites such as Laurie Lewis & Tom Rozum, The Crooked Jades, the Stairwell Sisters and the Wronglers. Also featured are beloved from outside the Bay Area, such as Dry Branch Fire Squad and Foghorn Stringband. Giving a nod to past, there will be two different celebrations of the bluegrass icons Flatt and Scruggs — the first a performance @ Freight and Salvage featuring an array of musicians paying tribute and a banjo workshop with Cory Goldman titled “Sex, Drugs and Earl Scruggs.”.
And the festival will spotlight some of the best in up-and-coming performers such as 24-year-old Frank Fairfield, who was recently featured on National Public radio for his unique style and approach on fiddle and banjo old-time tunes, the Southern Appalachian Gospel and fiddle tunes of Alex Caton and Pete Winne and the Chicago-based Henhouse Prowlers, who took the top slot at the 2010 Rockygrass Band Competition. A last minute addition to the festival performing on opening night 2/11/11 @ St. Cyprian's Church are The Nashvillains, an acoustic supergroup featuring virtuosos James Nash of The Waybacks on guitar, Bill Evans on banjo, and Bryan Horne from Hot Buttered Rum on bass!
In addition to shows, the festival aims to provide rich experiences for Bay Area residents through workshops, jam sessions, kids shows, Bluegrass and Old-Time in the Schools and the Saturday night old-time square dance (always a sell-out with over 220 attendees)! Each year the Festival showcases the best in rising acts from the West Coast and beyond, with a special spotlight on the immense amount of local talent located right here in the Bay Area.
Thanks to a generous investment from the Chris and Warren Hellman Foundation, the festival committee continues its commitment to the Bluegrass and Old-Time in the Schools program. The program aims to expose elementary and high school students to the worlds of bluegrass and old-time music and continue the legacy of this important music. Schools interested in bringing performers to their a Bay Area location should contact sfbotf.volunteer.coordinator@gmail.com.
Confirmed 2011 Acts
Laurie Lewis & Tom Rozum, Dry Branch Fire Squad, The Crooked Jades, Stairwell Sisters, The Wronglers, The Earl Brothers, Flatt & Scruggs Celebration, Foghorn Stringband, Nell Robinson with John Reischman & the Jaybirds, The Nashvillains, Frank Fairfield, The Henriettas, Henhouse Prowlers, Heroes for Ghosts, Dark Hollow, The Trespassers, Bill Martin, West Nile Ramblers, Windy Hill, AxeL EepH, Lady A & Her Heel Draggers, Walking in Sunlight, Cahalen Morrison & Eli West, Whiskey Puppy, Good Luck Thrift Store Outfit, Summertown Road, Possum & Lester, The Wiyos, Misisipi Rider, Kemo Sabe, BrownChicken BrownCow StringBand, Hang Jones, Dr. Elmo & Wild Blue, Heidi Clare & AtaGallop, The Bee Eaters, Alex Caton & Pete Winne, Misner & Smith, JimBo Trout & the Fishpeople, Bay Island Ramblers, Erik Clampitt, Old Man Markley, Pine Box Boys, Jackstraw, Bucky Walters, The Whisky Richards, Water Tower Bucket Boys, Brothers Comatose, Gayle Lynn & the Hired Hands, Gayle Schmitt & the Toodala Ramblers, Black Crown Stringband, Creole Belles, Aux Cajunals, Emily Bonn & The Vivants, Savannah Blu, Knuckle Knockers, Family Lines, and many others.
Unlike any other festival in the country, the San Francisco Bluegrass & Old-Time Festival is a grass-roots, non-profit, volunteer-run festival dedicated to keeping the tradition of bluegrass and old-time alive. For more information on the festival, visit http://www.sfbluegrass.org/.
###
Please contact Elizabeth Smith @ j.elizabeth@gmail.com or Tanya Pinkerton @ 510.669.9832 for more information and interview/photography requests.
The Nashvillains Photo Credit:Dave Weiland
The Nashvillains.JPG
2067K View Download
Friday, January 28, 2011
Sunday, January 23, 2011
The Social Network - A Review
Social network, one of the most popular films this year is one that I had to see, realizing that total accuracy might not be there, but it could give me an idea of what the start of facebook is all about ,do not read this if want to see it and have not yet, might ruin it for you. One thing that was a bit irritating was the lack of lighting in a lot of the scenes, it was bad, you just could not see what was going on, i could figure out the purpose of this, from the beginning scene, Zuckerberg is shown as a self centered creep, I can't say that is true, just what the movie projects. He loses his girlfriend in that scene, and gets mad, then goes to his dorm room @ Harvard to blog bad things about her and then got the idea for Facebook, He already had a couple of network type sites, one was Face mash. A couple of Harvard students approached him to make an online internet social network for Harvard, which Zuck agrees to, but uses this idea to make Facebook for the whole internet. His roommate ,friend was given title CEO, which was not too serious to Zuck, but his friend did contribute 2,000 bucks to Facebook.
The whole movie is going on at the same time The Zuck is in a trial where his roommate is suing him for his lack of credit in Facebook, he was kicked out at one point. Zuck meets napster founder Sean Parker, who actually finds out about him, and talks him into moving to California , where everything is happening, and The Zuck is really taken by Parker, and is in Awe of him, doing whatever he says, his CEO is much lesss impressed.
Parker ,once Zuck is in California kinda takes over, bringing more and more people into the startup. Finds a way to rid the company of the CEO and of course ,The Zuck goes along. Eventually, The CEO is kicked out. Parker and Zuck have built the most successful social network and info gathering network around. (Info gathering), like a lot of networks Facebook is a big gatherer of your personal info, from what I have been told, don't quote me on that. In the end, Zuckerberg does lose the trial, and the CEO is given his status of cofounder of Facebook back. The Harvard students are rewarded financially, but The Zuck is the winner with a social network worth eight million bucks. This is a must see for computer geeks. The seedy world of the internet is like a modern day mafia of sorts, where these companies like Google, Apple and Facebook war for top place. (Facts are not guaranteed here, as this was based on a movie presentation.
The whole movie is going on at the same time The Zuck is in a trial where his roommate is suing him for his lack of credit in Facebook, he was kicked out at one point. Zuck meets napster founder Sean Parker, who actually finds out about him, and talks him into moving to California , where everything is happening, and The Zuck is really taken by Parker, and is in Awe of him, doing whatever he says, his CEO is much lesss impressed.
Parker ,once Zuck is in California kinda takes over, bringing more and more people into the startup. Finds a way to rid the company of the CEO and of course ,The Zuck goes along. Eventually, The CEO is kicked out. Parker and Zuck have built the most successful social network and info gathering network around. (Info gathering), like a lot of networks Facebook is a big gatherer of your personal info, from what I have been told, don't quote me on that. In the end, Zuckerberg does lose the trial, and the CEO is given his status of cofounder of Facebook back. The Harvard students are rewarded financially, but The Zuck is the winner with a social network worth eight million bucks. This is a must see for computer geeks. The seedy world of the internet is like a modern day mafia of sorts, where these companies like Google, Apple and Facebook war for top place. (Facts are not guaranteed here, as this was based on a movie presentation.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Cracker Barrel and The Grascals Celebrate #1 Debut On Billboard Bluegrass Chart
Search Amazon.com for grascals
CRACKER BARREL AND THE GRASCALS CELEBRATE #1 DEBUT
ON BILLBOARD BLUEGRASS CHART
Exclusive CD “The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics with a Bluegrass Spin”
also lands on five other charts including Country,
Heatseekers, and Billboard Top 200
LEBANON, Tenn. (January 19, 2011) Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and The Grascals are pleased to celebrate the #1 debut of The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics with a Bluegrass Spin on the Billboard Top Bluegrass Albums chart (issue date January 29, 2011). The album also entered the Billboard Top Country Albums chart at #26, the Heatseekers chart at #2, the Independent chart at #15, the Billboard 200 at #113, and the Top Current Billboard 200 at #108.
The album has 13 country music songs. The Grascals bring their own bluegrass style to the tunes and bring the different tracks to life with eight of their friends, including Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Charlie Daniels and Dolly Parton. The track, “I Am Strong,” was written by Grascals band member Jamie Johnson and his wife Susanne Mumpower-Johnson along with Jenee Fleenor after The Grascals visited the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® and were inspired by the stories and power of the children being treated there. “I Am Strong” is powerful in its message and in its artistic vision and brings together vocals from all of the artists who also appear separately with The Grascals on other tracks on this CD. In honor of the children and this song, Cracker Barrel is donating a percentage of the proceeds. The CD is now available exclusively at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® and online at crackerbarrel.com.
"This is just icing on the cake ... like Cracker Barrel gravy on the biscuit!” said bass player Terry Smith. He added, “The relationship has been so great thus far. Hopefully the sales and great partnership will continue in kind. Also, I wish Friday fish fry was seven days a week!"
"This is something we've looked forward to for so long,” said mandolin player Danny Roberts. He added, “It's doing so well, so quickly. The added bonus of it benefiting St. Jude makes it all the better.”
“This is a great achievement and we congratulate The Grascals,” said Chris Ciavarra, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Cracker Barrel. “We are very pleased to see the strength of this CD’s debut and think that it speaks to quality of the music, the authenticity of the musicians, and it shows what a good fit this is with our guests.”
The Grascals, fresh off of a year packed with over 150 shows, are in the running for 10 of the 37th Annual SPBGMA Awards including Instrumental Group of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year, Bluegrass Band of the Year, and Entertaining Group of the Year. In addition, the Grascals’ new video, “I Am Strong” featuring Dolly Parton, premiered in mid-December on AOL.
The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin is the latest in Cracker Barrel’s exclusive music program, which features numerous projects. In November of 2010, Cracker Barrel released Smokey Robinson’s Now & Then which features six of his current songs and live versions of six of his classics that were recorded last year. It debuted at #19 on Billboard magazine’s R&B chart and has been nominated for Outstanding Album in the 2011 NAACP IMAGE AWARDS. September saw the release of the self-titled Rodney Atkins, which includes four #1 hits, and also the release of Mandy Barnett’s Winter Wonderland, which offers up all the authentic sounds of the holiday traditions so many of us cherish. In July, the company released Craig Morgan’s That’s Why-Collector’s Edition, and in May the release of Wynonna’s Love Heals debuted at #7 on the Billboard Magazine Top Country Albums chart. February’s release of Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Bluegrass Albums chart, where it spent nine weeks in the top position and 18 weeks overall in one of the three top positions since its release on February 1st. Releases in 2009 included November’s Songs of Love and Heartache by Alan Jackson, September’s release of an exclusive new version of The Foundation by the Zac Brown Band, August’s George Jones’ release of A Collection Of My Best Recollection, May’s release of Montgomery Gentry’s For Our Heroes, which debuted at #5 on Billboard Magazine’s Top Country Albums chart, and March’s release of Dolly Parton’s Collector’s Edition of Backwoods Barbie, which debuted at #9 on that chart. Over the last few years, Cracker Barrel has released exclusive CDs with Bill Gaither, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs, Aaron Tippin, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Josh Turner, Amy Grant, Sara Evans, and Charlie Daniels.
About Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n’ dumplins as well as its signature biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 597 company-owned locations in 42 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.
Media contacts
For Cracker Barrel
Julie Davis / (615) 443-9266
jdavis@crackerbarrel.com
Webster & Associates, LLC
Kirt Webster / (615) 777-6995 x230
kirt@websterpr.com
For The Grascals
so much MOORE media
Martha Moore (615) 746-3994
somuchmoore@charter.net
CRACKER BARREL AND THE GRASCALS CELEBRATE #1 DEBUT ON BILLBOARD BLUEGRASS CHART
Exclusive CD “The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics with a Bluegrass Spin”
also lands on five other charts including Country,
Heatseekers, and Billboard Top 200
LEBANON, Tenn. (January 19, 2011) Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and The Grascals are pleased to celebrate the #1 debut of The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics with a Bluegrass Spin on the Billboard Top Bluegrass Albums chart (issue date January 29, 2011). The album also entered the Billboard Top Country Albums chart at #26, the Heatseekers chart at #2, the Independent chart at #15, the Billboard 200 at #113, and the Top Current Billboard 200 at #108.
The album has 13 country music songs. The Grascals bring their own bluegrass style to the tunes and bring the different tracks to life with eight of their friends, including Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Charlie Daniels and Dolly Parton. The track, “I Am Strong,” was written by Grascals band member Jamie Johnson and his wife Susanne Mumpower-Johnson along with Jenee Fleenor after The Grascals visited the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® and were inspired by the stories and power of the children being treated there. “I Am Strong” is powerful in its message and in its artistic vision and brings together vocals from all of the artists who also appear separately with The Grascals on other tracks on this CD. In honor of the children and this song, Cracker Barrel is donating a percentage of the proceeds. The CD is now available exclusively at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® and online at crackerbarrel.com.
"This is just icing on the cake ... like Cracker Barrel gravy on the biscuit!” said bass player Terry Smith. He added, “The relationship has been so great thus far. Hopefully the sales and great partnership will continue in kind. Also, I wish Friday fish fry was seven days a week!"
"This is something we've looked forward to for so long,” said mandolin player Danny Roberts. He added, “It's doing so well, so quickly. The added bonus of it benefiting St. Jude makes it all the better.”
“This is a great achievement and we congratulate The Grascals,” said Chris Ciavarra, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Cracker Barrel. “We are very pleased to see the strength of this CD’s debut and think that it speaks to quality of the music, the authenticity of the musicians, and it shows what a good fit this is with our guests.”
The Grascals, fresh off of a year packed with over 150 shows, are in the running for 10 of the 37th Annual SPBGMA Awards including Instrumental Group of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year, Bluegrass Band of the Year, and Entertaining Group of the Year. In addition, the Grascals’ new video, “I Am Strong” featuring Dolly Parton, premiered in mid-December on AOL.
The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin is the latest in Cracker Barrel’s exclusive music program, which features numerous projects. In November of 2010, Cracker Barrel released Smokey Robinson’s Now & Then which features six of his current songs and live versions of six of his classics that were recorded last year. It debuted at #19 on Billboard magazine’s R&B chart and has been nominated for Outstanding Album in the 2011 NAACP IMAGE AWARDS. September saw the release of the self-titled Rodney Atkins, which includes four #1 hits, and also the release of Mandy Barnett’s Winter Wonderland, which offers up all the authentic sounds of the holiday traditions so many of us cherish. In July, the company released Craig Morgan’s That’s Why-Collector’s Edition, and in May the release of Wynonna’s Love Heals debuted at #7 on the Billboard Magazine Top Country Albums chart. February’s release of Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Bluegrass Albums chart, where it spent nine weeks in the top position and 18 weeks overall in one of the three top positions since its release on February 1st. Releases in 2009 included November’s Songs of Love and Heartache by Alan Jackson, September’s release of an exclusive new version of The Foundation by the Zac Brown Band, August’s George Jones’ release of A Collection Of My Best Recollection, May’s release of Montgomery Gentry’s For Our Heroes, which debuted at #5 on Billboard Magazine’s Top Country Albums chart, and March’s release of Dolly Parton’s Collector’s Edition of Backwoods Barbie, which debuted at #9 on that chart. Over the last few years, Cracker Barrel has released exclusive CDs with Bill Gaither, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs, Aaron Tippin, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Josh Turner, Amy Grant, Sara Evans, and Charlie Daniels.
About Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n’ dumplins as well as its signature biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 597 company-owned locations in 42 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.
Media contacts
For Cracker Barrel
Julie Davis / (615) 443-9266
jdavis@crackerbarrel.com
Webster & Associates, LLC
Kirt Webster / (615) 777-6995 x230
kirt@websterpr.com
For The Grascals
so much MOORE media
Martha Moore (615) 746-3994
somuchmoore@charter.net
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
George Jones,Randy Houser,Josh Turner,Oak Ridge Boys,Phil Vassar,Gretchen Wilson,Chuck Wicks,Craig Morgan,Charlie Daniels and many more join the Boot Campaign
GEORGE JONES, RANDY HOUSER, JOSH TURNER, OAK RIDGE BOYS,
PHIL VASSAR, GRETCHEN WILSON, JUSTIN MOORE,
CHUCK WICKS, CRAIG MORGAN, CHARLIE DANIELS
AND MANY MORE JOIN THE BOOT CAMPAIGN
Nashville, TN (January 17, 2011) - One-by-one country music stars are taking off their cowboy boots and replacing them with army boots! The Boot Campaign was inspired by retired US Navy SEAL and author of the book Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell. The campaign is a way for Americans to give back and say thank you to our armed forces.
Country music stars involved include: legends like George Jones, Oak Ridge Boys, Jan Howard, Mel Tillis, Lee Greenwood and Charlie Daniels, along with hit-makers Josh Turner, Phil Vassar, Joe Nichols, Randy Houser, Gretchen Wilson, Little Texas, Joe Diffie, Jamie O’Neal, Heidi Newfield, Justin Moore, Chuck Wicks, Colt Ford, Randy Rogers Band, Eli Young Band, Derek Sholl, Joey + Rory and Jack Ingram.
Charlie Daniels, who even chose the Boot Campaign to be a part of his annual charity event at the Nashville Palm said, “I’ve never seen anything quite as unique as the Boot Campaign, and I’ve seen a lot!”
Also on board are bluegrass artists The Grascals and The Roys, along with Texas sensations Cross Canadian Ragweed, Robert Earl Keen, Jason Boland, Aaron Watson, Mick and the Motorcars, Reckless Kelly, Wade Bowen, Kevin Fowler, Stoney LaRue, No Justice, Bleu Edmondson, and Granger Smith.
These celebrities along with the Boot Girls are helping to spread the organizations motto: “When They Come Back, We Give Back!” The campaign encourages Americans to purchase a pair of army combat boots to wear in support of our nation’s troops. Proceeds from the boot sales are donated to partner charities, including Luttrell’s Lone Survivor Foundation.
About The Boot Campaign
Known as “the Boot Girls,” Ginger, Leigh Ann, Sherri, Heather and Mariae banned together one fateful night in Tyler, Texas to launch The Boot Campaign giving gratitude and appreciation for the American military. The initiative is quickly gaining awareness with the repertoire of boot images expanding every day. The Boot Girls ask Americans to put their boots on during the routine of daily life to symbolically walk in the shoes of our military men and women, remembering their service and sacrifice. The Campaign’s signature boots are available for purchase online with proceeds benefiting organizations like The Lone Survivor Foundation.
For more information about The Boot Campaign, please visit: www.bootcampaign.com
Media Contact:
Webster & Associates, LLC
Lindsey Cate / 615-777-6995 x221
lindsey@websterpr.com
PHIL VASSAR, GRETCHEN WILSON, JUSTIN MOORE,
CHUCK WICKS, CRAIG MORGAN, CHARLIE DANIELS
AND MANY MORE JOIN THE BOOT CAMPAIGN
Nashville, TN (January 17, 2011) - One-by-one country music stars are taking off their cowboy boots and replacing them with army boots! The Boot Campaign was inspired by retired US Navy SEAL and author of the book Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell. The campaign is a way for Americans to give back and say thank you to our armed forces.
Country music stars involved include: legends like George Jones, Oak Ridge Boys, Jan Howard, Mel Tillis, Lee Greenwood and Charlie Daniels, along with hit-makers Josh Turner, Phil Vassar, Joe Nichols, Randy Houser, Gretchen Wilson, Little Texas, Joe Diffie, Jamie O’Neal, Heidi Newfield, Justin Moore, Chuck Wicks, Colt Ford, Randy Rogers Band, Eli Young Band, Derek Sholl, Joey + Rory and Jack Ingram.
Charlie Daniels, who even chose the Boot Campaign to be a part of his annual charity event at the Nashville Palm said, “I’ve never seen anything quite as unique as the Boot Campaign, and I’ve seen a lot!”
Also on board are bluegrass artists The Grascals and The Roys, along with Texas sensations Cross Canadian Ragweed, Robert Earl Keen, Jason Boland, Aaron Watson, Mick and the Motorcars, Reckless Kelly, Wade Bowen, Kevin Fowler, Stoney LaRue, No Justice, Bleu Edmondson, and Granger Smith.
These celebrities along with the Boot Girls are helping to spread the organizations motto: “When They Come Back, We Give Back!” The campaign encourages Americans to purchase a pair of army combat boots to wear in support of our nation’s troops. Proceeds from the boot sales are donated to partner charities, including Luttrell’s Lone Survivor Foundation.
About The Boot Campaign
Known as “the Boot Girls,” Ginger, Leigh Ann, Sherri, Heather and Mariae banned together one fateful night in Tyler, Texas to launch The Boot Campaign giving gratitude and appreciation for the American military. The initiative is quickly gaining awareness with the repertoire of boot images expanding every day. The Boot Girls ask Americans to put their boots on during the routine of daily life to symbolically walk in the shoes of our military men and women, remembering their service and sacrifice. The Campaign’s signature boots are available for purchase online with proceeds benefiting organizations like The Lone Survivor Foundation.
For more information about The Boot Campaign, please visit: www.bootcampaign.com
Media Contact:
Webster & Associates, LLC
Lindsey Cate / 615-777-6995 x221
lindsey@websterpr.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics with a Bluegrass Spin
Search Amazon.com for grascals cdCracker Barrel Old Country Store(and restaurant) has been putting out special releases of good music for a few years. This one is a real special treat, with The Grascals as the House Band, they have recorded mostly older classic country covers, which is done very tastefully, with many special guests. Let's take a look at this album.
Jamie Johnson wrote a real special song while visiting St. Jude's Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis with the Grascals last winter. It is presented twice, once with Dolly Parton, and as a bonus track with mostly everyone here participating. A portion of proceeds of The Grascals & Friends goes to St. Jude’s. The song is "I Am Strong." The ending is priceless, as cancer patient Ansley McLaurin sings the last line.
Well, the CD starts out cookin' with Brad Paisley doing his version of "Tiger by The Tail"(Buck Owens). Sounds very good, He also puts in one of his signature guitar breaks, followed by Kristin of the Grascals taking off on banjo.
Well, I have to jump out of order here , Charlie Daniels just came on singing his very popular "Devil Went Down to Georgia." Charlie was so impressed with Grascals’ fiddler Jeremy Abshire playing, that he opted not to play on the track.
"Folsom Prison Blues", Featuring Dierks Bentley, Bentley does a great job covering Cash with The Grascals, some very nice harmonies too! Guitarist Kent Wells nails the guitar part.
"Pain of Lovin' You", Dolly Parton nails the song she wrote with Porter Wagoner, and the Grascals sound great playing with her. She then sings the
first version of "I Am Strong" with Jamie Johnson. The lyrics here are powerful. Dolly's voice is as good as ever. Very powerful song with some very nice harmonies.
"Louisiana Saturday Night" is just the Grascals performing this Bob McDill song. It is real upbeat, reminds me a bit of Brad Paisley’s "American Saturday Night". Just the concept, not necessarily the tune itself, really takes off well.
"The Year That Clayton Delaney Died" (Tom T Hall) sung by Tom T Hall with the Grascals. I really like this , Tom sings this very animated, a song that works very well.
"White Lightning" featuring Darryl Worley, this song rocks , in a bluegrass way, Kristin really rocks the banjo with lead guitarist Kent Wells playing some sweet electric country riffs.
This album is a lot of fun and has a ton of talent on it. You like some country and bluegrass, you will love this. I forgot one more important song, Joe Nichols singing "Mr Bojangles", another very well done piece with some great instrumentation by the Grascals. This is a great way to start out the new year. Check it out!!
-release date 1/10/11
-samples
http://cbmusic.crackerbarrel.com/artists/grascals
http://www.crackerbarrel.com/
http://www.grascals.com/
--
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store(and restaurant) has been putting out special releases of good music for a few years. This one is a real special treat, with The Grascals as the House Band, they have recorded mostly older classic country covers, which is done very tastefully, with many special guests. Let's take a look at this album.Jamie Johnson wrote a real special song while visiting St. Jude's Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis with the Grascals last winter. It is presented twice, once with Dolly Parton, and as a bonus track with mostly everyone here participating. A portion of proceeds of The Grascals & Friends goes to St. Jude’s. The song is "I Am Strong." The ending is priceless, as cancer patient Ansley McLaurin sings the last line.
Well, the CD starts out cookin' with Brad Paisley doing his version of "Tiger by The Tail"(Buck Owens). Sounds very good, He also puts in one of his signature guitar breaks, followed by Kristin of the Grascals taking off on banjo.
Well, I have to jump out of order here , Charlie Daniels just came on singing his very popular "Devil Went Down to Georgia." Charlie was so impressed with Grascals’ fiddler Jeremy Abshire playing, that he opted not to play on the track.
"Folsom Prison Blues", Featuring Dierks Bentley, Bentley does a great job covering Cash with The Grascals, some very nice harmonies too! Guitarist Kent Wells nails the guitar part.
"Pain of Lovin' You", Dolly Parton nails the song she wrote with Porter Wagoner, and the Grascals sound great playing with her. She then sings the
first version of "I Am Strong" with Jamie Johnson. The lyrics here are powerful. Dolly's voice is as good as ever. Very powerful song with some very nice harmonies.
"Louisiana Saturday Night" is just the Grascals performing this Bob McDill song. It is real upbeat, reminds me a bit of Brad Paisley’s "American Saturday Night". Just the concept, not necessarily the tune itself, really takes off well.
"The Year That Clayton Delaney Died" (Tom T Hall) sung by Tom T Hall with the Grascals. I really like this , Tom sings this very animated, a song that works very well.
"White Lightning" featuring Darryl Worley, this song rocks , in a bluegrass way, Kristin really rocks the banjo with lead guitarist Kent Wells playing some sweet electric country riffs.
This album is a lot of fun and has a ton of talent on it. You like some country and bluegrass, you will love this. I forgot one more important song, Joe Nichols singing "Mr Bojangles", another very well done piece with some great instrumentation by the Grascals. This is a great way to start out the new year. Check it out!!
-release date 1/10/11
-samples
http://cbmusic.crackerbarrel.com/artists/grascals
http://www.crackerbarrel.com/
http://www.grascals.com/
--
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Lonesome River Band in need of Mandolin Player
Meadows of Dan, VA) This past year, the Lonesome River Band added acoustic bass player Barry Reed to help shape their sound as they are starting a new chapter in LRB history. The band has a very busy schedule of activities, recordings, and tour dates for 2011 all leading up to their 30th year Anniversary in 2012.. In light of these very busy activities next year, Andy Ball as decided to leave the band effective January 8, 2011. Andy attends school in Windsor, Canada and works in Detroit, Michigan, so it has been a difficult task to balance all of this with his LRB demands for 2011 and beyond.
Band leader, Sammy Shelor is accepting demos for a mandolin player and tenor vocalist and someone well versed in LRB's music. Interested musicians are asked to contact Shelor through the band's website.
The Lonesome River Band is celebrating a current chart album, “STILL LEARNING” on Rural Rhythm Records. The album’s first single release, “Record Time Machine” and “Jack Up The Jail” have also climbed a variety of radio charts this year.
“STILL LEARNING” was just chosen in POP MATTERS TOP BLUEGRASS ALBUMS OF 2010; featured on the CMT.com “Top 10 Indie Albums Worth a Listen,” reviewed in Country Weekly Magazine and numerous other publications since its July release.
The Lonesome River Band can also be heard on another 2010 album release, "THE ALL-STAR JAM - LIVE AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN" recorded in June at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music in Syria, Virginia. This historic live album was in celebration of Rural Rhythm Records 55th Anniversary and includes numerous collaborations among some of the top acts in bluegrass music.
Please visit www.lonesomeriverband.com for more information.
CONTACTS:
LONESOME RIVER BAND
http://www.lonesomeriverband.com/
Band leader, Sammy Shelor is accepting demos for a mandolin player and tenor vocalist and someone well versed in LRB's music. Interested musicians are asked to contact Shelor through the band's website.
The Lonesome River Band is celebrating a current chart album, “STILL LEARNING” on Rural Rhythm Records. The album’s first single release, “Record Time Machine” and “Jack Up The Jail” have also climbed a variety of radio charts this year.
“STILL LEARNING” was just chosen in POP MATTERS TOP BLUEGRASS ALBUMS OF 2010; featured on the CMT.com “Top 10 Indie Albums Worth a Listen,” reviewed in Country Weekly Magazine and numerous other publications since its July release.
The Lonesome River Band can also be heard on another 2010 album release, "THE ALL-STAR JAM - LIVE AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN" recorded in June at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music in Syria, Virginia. This historic live album was in celebration of Rural Rhythm Records 55th Anniversary and includes numerous collaborations among some of the top acts in bluegrass music.
Please visit www.lonesomeriverband.com for more information.
CONTACTS:
LONESOME RIVER BAND
http://www.lonesomeriverband.com/
Monday, December 13, 2010
The Judds Help Bid Farewell to Longtime Friend Larry King
THE JUDDS HELP BID FAREWELL TO LONGTIME FRIEND LARRY KING
Wynonna & Naomi Judd to make appearance this Tuesday
during final week of Larry King Live
Nashville, TN – Wynonna and Naomi Judd will make a pit-stop from The Judds: The Last Encore tour on Tuesday, December 14th, to spend an hour with longtime friend Larry King during his final week as host of CNN’s Larry King Live.
About Larry King Live:
The hit show has been on the air since 1985 and the man with the suspenders, Larry King, has become one of the most recognizable faces in the news world, mostly for his slicked back hair, his big square glasses and his intriguing interviews with the people of the day. Everyone from former President Ronald Reagan to United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie to former Governor Jesse Ventura have all appeared on the CNN prime time news program “Larry King Live.”
About The Judds:
Kentucky natives, The Judds, are one of the most successful country music duos of all time – amassing fourteen number-one hits and over 60 industry awards including multiple CMA, ACM and GRAMMY awards. After launching their career with Curb/RCA Records in 1984, The Judds sold 20 million albums in just 6 short years. By 1989, The Judds were one of the top-grossing and most popular touring acts in America. But at the height of their career, Naomi Judd announced she would have to retire from the music business due to health complications. To say goodbye to their fans, they launched the 116-city Judds Farewell Tour selling more concert tickets than anyone that year with the exception of The Grateful Dead and The Rolling Stones. Nearly ten years after her health turned around, the pair reunited on Dec. 31, 1999 for a New Year’s gala performance, and a reunion tour in 2000. They came together again at last year’s 2009 CMA Music Festival and captivated the massive audience with their homespun, acoustic harmonies that felt as revelatory as they did when they first shot onto the country music scene 26 years ago. Encouraged by that performance and driven by the fans, the duo decided to tour one last time for 2010’s The Judds: The Last Encore.
The Judds: The Last Encore tour will feature new Judds music while also highlighting 25 years of fan-favorites including some of Wynonna’s most celebrated solo hits. The tour will also feature holiday seasonal favorites, by weaving several classic Christmas songs into The Judds' diverse set list. Judds fans can find all of the latest info, including a complete listing of concert dates, sign up to receive e-mail alerts and the opportunity to connect with other JUDD-heads on the official tour website: www.thejuddstour2010.com
The Judds Media Contact:
Webster & Associates Public Relations / (615) 777-6995 x230
Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com
Wynonna & Naomi Judd to make appearance this Tuesday
during final week of Larry King Live
Nashville, TN – Wynonna and Naomi Judd will make a pit-stop from The Judds: The Last Encore tour on Tuesday, December 14th, to spend an hour with longtime friend Larry King during his final week as host of CNN’s Larry King Live.
About Larry King Live:
The hit show has been on the air since 1985 and the man with the suspenders, Larry King, has become one of the most recognizable faces in the news world, mostly for his slicked back hair, his big square glasses and his intriguing interviews with the people of the day. Everyone from former President Ronald Reagan to United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie to former Governor Jesse Ventura have all appeared on the CNN prime time news program “Larry King Live.”
About The Judds:
Kentucky natives, The Judds, are one of the most successful country music duos of all time – amassing fourteen number-one hits and over 60 industry awards including multiple CMA, ACM and GRAMMY awards. After launching their career with Curb/RCA Records in 1984, The Judds sold 20 million albums in just 6 short years. By 1989, The Judds were one of the top-grossing and most popular touring acts in America. But at the height of their career, Naomi Judd announced she would have to retire from the music business due to health complications. To say goodbye to their fans, they launched the 116-city Judds Farewell Tour selling more concert tickets than anyone that year with the exception of The Grateful Dead and The Rolling Stones. Nearly ten years after her health turned around, the pair reunited on Dec. 31, 1999 for a New Year’s gala performance, and a reunion tour in 2000. They came together again at last year’s 2009 CMA Music Festival and captivated the massive audience with their homespun, acoustic harmonies that felt as revelatory as they did when they first shot onto the country music scene 26 years ago. Encouraged by that performance and driven by the fans, the duo decided to tour one last time for 2010’s The Judds: The Last Encore.
The Judds: The Last Encore tour will feature new Judds music while also highlighting 25 years of fan-favorites including some of Wynonna’s most celebrated solo hits. The tour will also feature holiday seasonal favorites, by weaving several classic Christmas songs into The Judds' diverse set list. Judds fans can find all of the latest info, including a complete listing of concert dates, sign up to receive e-mail alerts and the opportunity to connect with other JUDD-heads on the official tour website: www.thejuddstour2010.com
The Judds Media Contact:
Webster & Associates Public Relations / (615) 777-6995 x230
Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com
Wednesday, December 08, 2010
The Grascals & Friends Coming To Cracker Barrel
Search Amazon.com for GrascalsTHE GRASCALS & FRIENDS COMING TO CRACKER BARREL
Exclusive CD will feature guest artists joining in for some bluegrass fun
LEBANON, Tenn. (December 6, 2010) Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is pleased to let you know that the next CD in its exclusive music program will feature some of the biggest names in country music joining up with one of the most beloved bands on today's bluegrass scene, The Grascals. The album, The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin, has 13 country music songs on it that you have probably heard before, but most likely not like this. The Grascals bring their own bluegrass style to the tunes and bring the different tracks to life with eight of their friends, including Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Charlie Daniels and Dolly Parton. The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin will be available on January 10th, 2011, exclusively at all Cracker Barrel locations.
The bonus track, "I Am Strong," was written by Grascals band member Jamie Johnson and his wife Susanne Mumpower-Johnson along with Jenee Fleenor after The Grascals visited the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital® and were inspired by the stories and power of the children being treated there. "I Am Strong" is powerful in its message and artistic vision and brings together vocals from all of the artists who also appear separately with the Grascals on other tracks on this CD. In honor of the children and this song, Cracker Barrel is donating a percentage of the proceeds from this CD to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
"The Grascals are steeped in bluegrass tradition and at the same time are in touch with their contemporary audiences, bringing authenticity as well as freshness to the music," said Chris Ciavarra, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Cracker Barrel. "We are pleased to be able to offer our guests this unique CD as the latest album in our exclusive music program."
The Grascals are frequent guests at Cracker Barrel as it provides a welcome stop along the way when they are out touring, which is most of the year. Ask any of the six band members what they like to eat when they stop in and there is no hesitation in the responses: chicken n' dumplins, the Sunrise Sampler, turnip greens or pinto beans....the answers go on and on.
The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin will be the latest in Cracker Barrel's exclusive music program, which features numerous projects. In November of 2010, Cracker Barrel released Smokey Robinson's Now & Then which features six of his current songs and live versions of six of his classics that were recorded last year. It debuted at #19 on Billboard magazine's R&B chart. September saw the release of the self-titled Rodney Atkins, which includes four #1 hits, and also released Mandy Barnett's Winter Wonderland, which offers up all the authentic sounds of the holiday traditions so many of us cherish. In July, the company released Craig Morgan's That's Why-Collector's Edition, and in May the release of Wynonna's Love Heals debuted at #7 on the Billboard Magazine Top Country Albums chart. February's release of Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers debuted at #1 on Billboard's Top Bluegrass Albums chart, where it spent nine weeks in the top position and 18 weeks overall in one of the three top positions since its release on February 1st. Releases in 2009 included November's Songs of Love and Heartache by Alan Jackson, September's release of an exclusive new version of The Foundation by the Zac Brown Band, August's George Jones' release of A Collection Of My Best Recollection, May's release of Montgomery Gentry's For Our Heroes, which debuted at #5 on Billboard Magazine's Top Country Albums chart, and March's release of Dolly Parton's Collector's Edition of Backwoods Barbie, which debuted at #9 on that chart. Over the last few years, Cracker Barrel has released exclusive CDs with Bill Gaither, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs, Aaron Tippin, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Josh Turner, Amy Grant, Sara Evans, and Charlie Daniels.
Tracks on The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin:
1. Tiger By The Tail (with Brad Paisley)
2. Folsom Prison Blues (with Dierks Bentley)
3. Pain of Lovin' You (with Dolly Parton)
4. I Am Strong (with Dolly Parton)
5. Louisiana Saturday Night
6. The Year That Clayton Delaney Died (with Tom T. Hall)
7. White Lightning (with Darryl Worley)
8. The Devil Went Down To Georgia (with Charlie Daniels)
9. Leavin' Louisiana In Broad Daylight (with The Oak Ridge Boys)
10. Mr. Bojangles (with Joe Nichols)
11. Hank Williams Jr. Medley - Born To Boogie / All My Rowdy Friends Are Comin' Over Tonight
12. Cracker Barrel Swing (Instrumental)
13. I Am Strong (Bonus Track) Featuring guest appearances by Dolly Parton, The Oak Ridge Boys, Darryl Worley, Charlie Daniels, Terri Clark, Randy Owen, Steven Seagal, Tom T. Hall, Joe Nichols and Ansley McLaurin
About Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that's surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America's country heritage...all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n' dumplins as well as its signature biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 597 company-owned locations in 42 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. - 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com
THE GRASCALS & FRIENDS COMING TO CRACKER BARRELExclusive CD will feature guest artists joining in for some bluegrass fun
LEBANON, Tenn. (December 6, 2010) Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is pleased to let you know that the next CD in its exclusive music program will feature some of the biggest names in country music joining up with one of the most beloved bands on today's bluegrass scene, The Grascals. The album, The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin, has 13 country music songs on it that you have probably heard before, but most likely not like this. The Grascals bring their own bluegrass style to the tunes and bring the different tracks to life with eight of their friends, including Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Charlie Daniels and Dolly Parton. The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin will be available on January 10th, 2011, exclusively at all Cracker Barrel locations.
The bonus track, "I Am Strong," was written by Grascals band member Jamie Johnson and his wife Susanne Mumpower-Johnson along with Jenee Fleenor after The Grascals visited the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital® and were inspired by the stories and power of the children being treated there. "I Am Strong" is powerful in its message and artistic vision and brings together vocals from all of the artists who also appear separately with the Grascals on other tracks on this CD. In honor of the children and this song, Cracker Barrel is donating a percentage of the proceeds from this CD to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
"The Grascals are steeped in bluegrass tradition and at the same time are in touch with their contemporary audiences, bringing authenticity as well as freshness to the music," said Chris Ciavarra, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Cracker Barrel. "We are pleased to be able to offer our guests this unique CD as the latest album in our exclusive music program."
The Grascals are frequent guests at Cracker Barrel as it provides a welcome stop along the way when they are out touring, which is most of the year. Ask any of the six band members what they like to eat when they stop in and there is no hesitation in the responses: chicken n' dumplins, the Sunrise Sampler, turnip greens or pinto beans....the answers go on and on.
The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin will be the latest in Cracker Barrel's exclusive music program, which features numerous projects. In November of 2010, Cracker Barrel released Smokey Robinson's Now & Then which features six of his current songs and live versions of six of his classics that were recorded last year. It debuted at #19 on Billboard magazine's R&B chart. September saw the release of the self-titled Rodney Atkins, which includes four #1 hits, and also released Mandy Barnett's Winter Wonderland, which offers up all the authentic sounds of the holiday traditions so many of us cherish. In July, the company released Craig Morgan's That's Why-Collector's Edition, and in May the release of Wynonna's Love Heals debuted at #7 on the Billboard Magazine Top Country Albums chart. February's release of Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers debuted at #1 on Billboard's Top Bluegrass Albums chart, where it spent nine weeks in the top position and 18 weeks overall in one of the three top positions since its release on February 1st. Releases in 2009 included November's Songs of Love and Heartache by Alan Jackson, September's release of an exclusive new version of The Foundation by the Zac Brown Band, August's George Jones' release of A Collection Of My Best Recollection, May's release of Montgomery Gentry's For Our Heroes, which debuted at #5 on Billboard Magazine's Top Country Albums chart, and March's release of Dolly Parton's Collector's Edition of Backwoods Barbie, which debuted at #9 on that chart. Over the last few years, Cracker Barrel has released exclusive CDs with Bill Gaither, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs, Aaron Tippin, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Josh Turner, Amy Grant, Sara Evans, and Charlie Daniels.
Tracks on The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin:
1. Tiger By The Tail (with Brad Paisley)
2. Folsom Prison Blues (with Dierks Bentley)
3. Pain of Lovin' You (with Dolly Parton)
4. I Am Strong (with Dolly Parton)
5. Louisiana Saturday Night
6. The Year That Clayton Delaney Died (with Tom T. Hall)
7. White Lightning (with Darryl Worley)
8. The Devil Went Down To Georgia (with Charlie Daniels)
9. Leavin' Louisiana In Broad Daylight (with The Oak Ridge Boys)
10. Mr. Bojangles (with Joe Nichols)
11. Hank Williams Jr. Medley - Born To Boogie / All My Rowdy Friends Are Comin' Over Tonight
12. Cracker Barrel Swing (Instrumental)
13. I Am Strong (Bonus Track) Featuring guest appearances by Dolly Parton, The Oak Ridge Boys, Darryl Worley, Charlie Daniels, Terri Clark, Randy Owen, Steven Seagal, Tom T. Hall, Joe Nichols and Ansley McLaurin
About Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that's surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America's country heritage...all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n' dumplins as well as its signature biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 597 company-owned locations in 42 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. - 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com
Friday, December 03, 2010
The Grascals Celebrate Another successful year
The Grascals Celebrate Another Successful Year
2010 Brought Group Numerous #1s, Popular Videos & More
Nashville, TN (December 3, 2010) -- The Grascals recently celebrated another successful year with numerous #1s, popular videos, five-star shows and extensive press coverage behind them. The group's current CD, THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S, ruled the Bluegrass Unlimited Chart for an astounding four-month run at #1, while the single, "Last Train To Clarksville," is that Chart's #1 single this month. The disc also reigned supreme on the Bluegrass Music Profiles Chart (#1 for two months), and the single hit the top of the European Hot Disc Chart.
The Grascals toured extensively, delighting fans at over 150 shows that included high-profile outings with Hank Williams Jr.'s Rowdy Friends Tour; the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon, the CMA Music Fest, the IBMA Fan Fest Stage, dozens of festivals, multiple Grand Ole Opry appearances and more. Their music video, "Last Train To Clarksville," received a favorable response from critics and fans alike, and a new video, filmed at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, will hit the airwaves soon.
Change was in the wind for The Grascals throughout 2010; the band parted ways with Rounder Records after a successful six-year run and formed their own imprint, BluGrascal Records. The band celebrated a terrific first year with New Frontier Touring, and so much MOORE media joined The Grascals' team in March. At the helm of The Grascals' ship is Entertainment Evolution, the group's artist management firm.
The Grascals' Jamie Johnson sums up the year perfectly, saying, "We worked hard, we reaped a good bit of what we've sown, and we are continually blessed." The group is shown here, receiving #1 award plaques for THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S, at NorthStar Studios following the filming of Reno's Old Time Music Festival television show.
2010 Brought Group Numerous #1s, Popular Videos & More
Nashville, TN (December 3, 2010) -- The Grascals recently celebrated another successful year with numerous #1s, popular videos, five-star shows and extensive press coverage behind them. The group's current CD, THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S, ruled the Bluegrass Unlimited Chart for an astounding four-month run at #1, while the single, "Last Train To Clarksville," is that Chart's #1 single this month. The disc also reigned supreme on the Bluegrass Music Profiles Chart (#1 for two months), and the single hit the top of the European Hot Disc Chart.
The Grascals toured extensively, delighting fans at over 150 shows that included high-profile outings with Hank Williams Jr.'s Rowdy Friends Tour; the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon, the CMA Music Fest, the IBMA Fan Fest Stage, dozens of festivals, multiple Grand Ole Opry appearances and more. Their music video, "Last Train To Clarksville," received a favorable response from critics and fans alike, and a new video, filmed at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, will hit the airwaves soon.
Change was in the wind for The Grascals throughout 2010; the band parted ways with Rounder Records after a successful six-year run and formed their own imprint, BluGrascal Records. The band celebrated a terrific first year with New Frontier Touring, and so much MOORE media joined The Grascals' team in March. At the helm of The Grascals' ship is Entertainment Evolution, the group's artist management firm.
The Grascals' Jamie Johnson sums up the year perfectly, saying, "We worked hard, we reaped a good bit of what we've sown, and we are continually blessed." The group is shown here, receiving #1 award plaques for THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S, at NorthStar Studios following the filming of Reno's Old Time Music Festival television show.
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
"Homecoming, The Bluegrass Album" - Joe Diffie - A review
Joe Diffie has spent most of his career singing popular country music. Diffie's vocals sound as good or better than I expected, He does have a good set of pipes.
He sings mostly covers written by Nashville's best and even one by Otis Redding. The musicians read like a who's who of Bluegrass music.
The Grascals back him up on a song that he wrote "Rainin on A Rubber Dolly Now". This is a cohesive track and upbeat, one of the best bluegrass sounding songs on the disc.
"Route 5,Box 109" is my favorite, great song about family and Joe does a good job with this (Galen Griffin and Kerry Phillips) song.
Really, there is not a bad song on this disc, and the list of backup singers is nothing short of incredible. Diffie really puts himself into thes songs, though whether they sound more country or bluegrass is left up in the air, A dobro does not make A CD Bluegrass. I realize that entertainment is the whole end of an album and this is well done, not a cheap production done in a cheap project studio.
http://www.oceanwayrecording.com/studios-nashville.php
What kinda bothers me is the instruments are recorded in one studio and the vocals in another, so the recording is sort of Karaoke style. Instruments recorded in Oceanway studios and vocals recorded at Station West studio. Mostly all recorded, mixed and mastered by Luke Wooten, while Joe helps with production. The product is very polished, though it sounds a bit bright on one of my CD players.
A special treat is the playing of banjo by Kristen Scott on the Grascals track. This gal is easily one of the best banjo pickers going today, and still pretty young. "Fit For A King" (Carl Jackson,Jim Rushing) is a very good gospel, story song.
Only song I did not like was Diffie's "Til Death" - too graphic for me. Overall, this a good listen for country and Bluegrass fans.
He sings mostly covers written by Nashville's best and even one by Otis Redding. The musicians read like a who's who of Bluegrass music.
The Grascals back him up on a song that he wrote "Rainin on A Rubber Dolly Now". This is a cohesive track and upbeat, one of the best bluegrass sounding songs on the disc.
"Route 5,Box 109" is my favorite, great song about family and Joe does a good job with this (Galen Griffin and Kerry Phillips) song.
Really, there is not a bad song on this disc, and the list of backup singers is nothing short of incredible. Diffie really puts himself into thes songs, though whether they sound more country or bluegrass is left up in the air, A dobro does not make A CD Bluegrass. I realize that entertainment is the whole end of an album and this is well done, not a cheap production done in a cheap project studio.
http://www.oceanwayrecording.com/studios-nashville.php
What kinda bothers me is the instruments are recorded in one studio and the vocals in another, so the recording is sort of Karaoke style. Instruments recorded in Oceanway studios and vocals recorded at Station West studio. Mostly all recorded, mixed and mastered by Luke Wooten, while Joe helps with production. The product is very polished, though it sounds a bit bright on one of my CD players.
A special treat is the playing of banjo by Kristen Scott on the Grascals track. This gal is easily one of the best banjo pickers going today, and still pretty young. "Fit For A King" (Carl Jackson,Jim Rushing) is a very good gospel, story song.
Only song I did not like was Diffie's "Til Death" - too graphic for me. Overall, this a good listen for country and Bluegrass fans.
Friday, November 19, 2010
The Band Perry - A Debut
Well, only a couple of months ago, this young trio of sister with brothers was unheard of. This CD, mostly recorded before they were signed with a label.
This CD is an excellent production, a mixture of country rock, and acoustic sounds with three vocals and excellent musicians. Mostly original songs, Kim Perry and brothers Neil and Reid. They even play instruments on their first CD.
The sound quality is excellent thru out the disc. Their lyrics are very good. Kim has a very special way of enunciating her vocals, they are easy to understand. This CD has hit the Charts heavy at number 11.
, Neil Perry really shines thru on mandolin on several songs. Helpful studio musicians are guitar- Bryan Sutton, Drums - Shannon Forrest, acoustic guitar - Biff Watson ,pedal steel ,Dan Dugmore and Mike Johnson, mastered by Hank William @ mastermix. Sorry, many artists left unnamed .
Favorite songs = You Lie, Hip To My Heart, If I Die Young, Heart, Quittin You, and Postcard From Paris. "If I Die Young" is an incredible debut song, very good since it is self written. These guys are really good at everything they do!!
This CD is an excellent production, a mixture of country rock, and acoustic sounds with three vocals and excellent musicians. Mostly original songs, Kim Perry and brothers Neil and Reid. They even play instruments on their first CD.
The sound quality is excellent thru out the disc. Their lyrics are very good. Kim has a very special way of enunciating her vocals, they are easy to understand. This CD has hit the Charts heavy at number 11.
, Neil Perry really shines thru on mandolin on several songs. Helpful studio musicians are guitar- Bryan Sutton, Drums - Shannon Forrest, acoustic guitar - Biff Watson ,pedal steel ,Dan Dugmore and Mike Johnson, mastered by Hank William @ mastermix. Sorry, many artists left unnamed .
Favorite songs = You Lie, Hip To My Heart, If I Die Young, Heart, Quittin You, and Postcard From Paris. "If I Die Young" is an incredible debut song, very good since it is self written. These guys are really good at everything they do!!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The Oak Ridge Boys 2010 Tour, The Boys Are back for Chrismas
The Oak Ridge Boys 2010 Christmas Tour
The Boys Are Back Home for Christmas
Nashville, TN (November 16, 2010) – Each year, The Oak Ridge Boys’ Christmas tour plays to packed houses across America. This year The Boys Are Back for Christmas Tour will take the group to 18 states and 29 cities, mid-November through December 22. For the first time in ten years The Oak Ridge Boys will be bringing their Christmas show back home to Nashville and are doing so at the newly renovated Gaylord Opryland Resort on December 21.
The two-hour extravaganza features a mixture of traditional and contemporary songs—including religious, romantic, and fun holiday tunes—as well as the group’s classic Country-Pop hits, likeElvira, American Made, andThank God For Kids. The full-production show features beautiful sets, falling snow, and a visit from Santa Claus, and it includes songs from the Oaks’ five bestselling Christmas CDs.
The Boys are thrilled to be ending their holiday tour in Nashville. “It’s such an honor to play the last day of our tour this year in our hometown. It will provide a great opportunity for all of our local friends, fans and family to celebrate Christmas with The Oak Ridge Boys,” The Oaks’ Joe Bonsall explains, “we have been doing a full out Christmas tour since 1988, and since we last brought the tour to Nashville, our children have grown and we all have grandkids. The Boys are back home for Christmas in Nashville at Opryland…I’m not sure how it gets any better!”
VIP and Basic show ticket packages are available now by calling 1-888-677-9872. Packages include overnight accommodations at Gaylord Opryland Resort with a private viewing of the Gaylord Opryland’s Hall of Trees, as well as dinner prior to the Christmas concert. General show tickets are also available.
To find out more information about The Boys Are Back For Christmas show in Nashville visit http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-opryland/specials-packages/specials/oak-ridge-boys-christmas/index.html.
You can also follow the tour on Facebook at http://on.fb.me/9XKCcZ and Twitter at http://twitter.com/ORB_Christmas
Media Contact:
Webster & Associates, LLC
Jenelle Scott / 615-777-6995 x222
jenelle@websterpr.com
The Boys Are Back Home for Christmas
Nashville, TN (November 16, 2010) – Each year, The Oak Ridge Boys’ Christmas tour plays to packed houses across America. This year The Boys Are Back for Christmas Tour will take the group to 18 states and 29 cities, mid-November through December 22. For the first time in ten years The Oak Ridge Boys will be bringing their Christmas show back home to Nashville and are doing so at the newly renovated Gaylord Opryland Resort on December 21.
The two-hour extravaganza features a mixture of traditional and contemporary songs—including religious, romantic, and fun holiday tunes—as well as the group’s classic Country-Pop hits, likeElvira, American Made, andThank God For Kids. The full-production show features beautiful sets, falling snow, and a visit from Santa Claus, and it includes songs from the Oaks’ five bestselling Christmas CDs.
The Boys are thrilled to be ending their holiday tour in Nashville. “It’s such an honor to play the last day of our tour this year in our hometown. It will provide a great opportunity for all of our local friends, fans and family to celebrate Christmas with The Oak Ridge Boys,” The Oaks’ Joe Bonsall explains, “we have been doing a full out Christmas tour since 1988, and since we last brought the tour to Nashville, our children have grown and we all have grandkids. The Boys are back home for Christmas in Nashville at Opryland…I’m not sure how it gets any better!”
VIP and Basic show ticket packages are available now by calling 1-888-677-9872. Packages include overnight accommodations at Gaylord Opryland Resort with a private viewing of the Gaylord Opryland’s Hall of Trees, as well as dinner prior to the Christmas concert. General show tickets are also available.
To find out more information about The Boys Are Back For Christmas show in Nashville visit http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-opryland/specials-packages/specials/oak-ridge-boys-christmas/index.html.
You can also follow the tour on Facebook at http://on.fb.me/9XKCcZ and Twitter at http://twitter.com/ORB_Christmas
Media Contact:
Webster & Associates, LLC
Jenelle Scott / 615-777-6995 x222
jenelle@websterpr.com
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Charlie Daniels and Friends Celebrate Christmas 4 Kids at Sold Out Concert
Search Amazon.com for charlie daniels band
CHARLIE DANIELS & FRIENDS CELEBRATE
CHRISTMAS 4 KIDS AT SOLD OUT CONCERT
Nashville, TN -- Charlie Daniels will offer his time and talents to host and headline Charlie Daniels & Friends concert on Monday, November 22nd at the Ryman Auditorium, beginning at 7:00 PM. Charlie Daniels and friends Montgomery Gentry, Jake Owen, and Sawyer Brown will perform at the charity event that raises money for the Christmas 4 Kids organization (a division of Christmas For Kids, Inc). “We are completely out of seats,” Debbie Lamberson proclaimed earlier today. “This is a very exciting time for our organization and for Nashville.”
Christmas 4 Kids is a not-for-profit organization that has been in existence for over 25 years providing many children, each year, with their very own shopping spree. The funds generated by the concert, and the Tour Bus Show/Artist Meet and Greet event are used to give children from 30 different schools, a total of more than 400 children, a day-long shopping excursion. The special day consists of a chauffeured trip from their school aboard an entertainer's luxury tour bus, lunch, and a party hosted by Santa and Mrs. Claus at College Heights Baptist Church, and finally a trip to the Hendersonville, Tennessee, Walmart where they receive $150.00 to spend on anything they want and also receive a brand new winter coat.
The Annual Tour Bus Show/Artist Meet and Greet event will take place on Monday, December 13th in Hendersonville, TN. The shopping excursion takes place on Tuesday, December 14th. For more information on how you can volunteer to help chaperone one of these special children, visit www.Christmas4kids.org.
CHARLIE DANIELS & FRIENDS CELEBRATE
CHRISTMAS 4 KIDS AT SOLD OUT CONCERT
Nashville, TN -- Charlie Daniels will offer his time and talents to host and headline Charlie Daniels & Friends concert on Monday, November 22nd at the Ryman Auditorium, beginning at 7:00 PM. Charlie Daniels and friends Montgomery Gentry, Jake Owen, and Sawyer Brown will perform at the charity event that raises money for the Christmas 4 Kids organization (a division of Christmas For Kids, Inc). “We are completely out of seats,” Debbie Lamberson proclaimed earlier today. “This is a very exciting time for our organization and for Nashville.”
Christmas 4 Kids is a not-for-profit organization that has been in existence for over 25 years providing many children, each year, with their very own shopping spree. The funds generated by the concert, and the Tour Bus Show/Artist Meet and Greet event are used to give children from 30 different schools, a total of more than 400 children, a day-long shopping excursion. The special day consists of a chauffeured trip from their school aboard an entertainer's luxury tour bus, lunch, and a party hosted by Santa and Mrs. Claus at College Heights Baptist Church, and finally a trip to the Hendersonville, Tennessee, Walmart where they receive $150.00 to spend on anything they want and also receive a brand new winter coat.
The Annual Tour Bus Show/Artist Meet and Greet event will take place on Monday, December 13th in Hendersonville, TN. The shopping excursion takes place on Tuesday, December 14th. For more information on how you can volunteer to help chaperone one of these special children, visit www.Christmas4kids.org.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
" Hellos Goodbyes & Butterflies" - Donna Hughes - A Review
Donna Hughes second album that I have reviewed , "Hellos Goodbyes & Butterflies" is another very consistent piece of work. Her type of songwriting stays pretty much the same, and her sweet emotive vocals are still excellent, the big difference in her new CD is that JD Crowe produced it , while Tony Rice produced her other CD that I have heard. She has two other CDs before these That I can not comment on. Tony liked her piano playing, so on "Gaining Wisdom" , she played some piano, it is more of a sparse, but very well produced CD in the quality of the recording, very clean.
JD Crowes production is more bluegrass in the traditional sense, with lots of good dobro, Randy Kohrs and Rob Ickes. Also, a very good, clean recording ,featuring the stringed instruments and Hughes' excellent vocals and melodies. There are fifteen songs here, all written by Hughes, who is a very prolific writer , probably written about 300 songs by now. As Tony Rice fitted the production to Donna's songs and voice, I see that in JD Crowes work too. She is not your real traditional old timey bluegrass singer, with lots of banjo and fiddle going all the time. The music is mostly guitars ,dobro , some mandolin, but it hones in more as a southern sounding set that is definitely bluegrass flavored, but original in that Hughes' songs are original. She has has had her songs recorded by Alison Krauss and also the group Seldom Scene. Donna actually sounds alot like Alison Krauss and Union Station at places on this CD. It is quite amazing how, she can be so prolific with her music and bring out some really good songs that catch your attention. "Dr. Jekyll, Mr Hyde" is a very good song with a good set of hooks and a very realistic setting for the song. It is emotional , like something she lived. My personal favorite is "God Don't Make Mistakes" , that song really moves me each time that I hear it. and "Mid-Life Crisis" , songs based on life and stories, but isn't that what bluegrass and country music are all about. Also, Donna has some real good harmony's on the tracks.
Personaly, Hughes is a real talent , between being a songwriter and Bluegrass performer. She just seem to keep getting better.
www.donnahughes.com
, --
JD Crowes production is more bluegrass in the traditional sense, with lots of good dobro, Randy Kohrs and Rob Ickes. Also, a very good, clean recording ,featuring the stringed instruments and Hughes' excellent vocals and melodies. There are fifteen songs here, all written by Hughes, who is a very prolific writer , probably written about 300 songs by now. As Tony Rice fitted the production to Donna's songs and voice, I see that in JD Crowes work too. She is not your real traditional old timey bluegrass singer, with lots of banjo and fiddle going all the time. The music is mostly guitars ,dobro , some mandolin, but it hones in more as a southern sounding set that is definitely bluegrass flavored, but original in that Hughes' songs are original. She has has had her songs recorded by Alison Krauss and also the group Seldom Scene. Donna actually sounds alot like Alison Krauss and Union Station at places on this CD. It is quite amazing how, she can be so prolific with her music and bring out some really good songs that catch your attention. "Dr. Jekyll, Mr Hyde" is a very good song with a good set of hooks and a very realistic setting for the song. It is emotional , like something she lived. My personal favorite is "God Don't Make Mistakes" , that song really moves me each time that I hear it. and "Mid-Life Crisis" , songs based on life and stories, but isn't that what bluegrass and country music are all about. Also, Donna has some real good harmony's on the tracks.
Personaly, Hughes is a real talent , between being a songwriter and Bluegrass performer. She just seem to keep getting better.
www.donnahughes.com
, --
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
George Strait Announces 2011 Tour With Reba and Lee Ann Womack
GEORGE STRAIT ANNOUNCES 2011 TOUR
WITH REBA AND LEE ANN WOMACK
Nashville, Tenn. (November 5, 2010) -- George Strait fans who missed this year’s superstar pairing of King George, Phenom Reba McEntire and award-winning traditionalist Lee Ann Womack are getting a second chance in 2011.
“The George, Reba and Lee Ann tour is certainly one of the best on the road this year, offering an entertainment package perfect for cowboys, cowgirls … and city folk alike,” exclaims The Boot’s Vernell Hackett.
“All three of the performers – George Strait, Reba McEntire and Lee Ann Womack – delivered flawlessly in a concert perhaps best noted for its emphasis on performance over props or pyrotechnics,” says Amanda St. Amand of the St. Louis Post Dispatch.
“Call Strait the Bruce Springsteen of country music … ,” praises Jack Hill of the Arkansas Democrat Gazette .
“The icon appears to have no plans to slow down – good news, no doubt, to his fans,” says Larry Rodgers of Arizona Republic.
“No matter what the genre, singing doesn't get much better than this,” exclaims Geoffrey Himes of Baltimore’s City Paper.
At next week’s 44th Annual CMA Awards, King George is up for Male Vocalist of the Year award for the 24th time and is also nominated for Album of the Year for Twang, an award he won in 2008 for his critically claimed album Troubadour.
With a career spanning more than 30 years, George Strait has the most number one singles of any artist in history including Elvis (57 to date inclusive of all charts). He has sold nearly 69 million records and with 33 different platinum or multi-platinum albums has the most RIAA platinum certifications in country music and the third in all genres, behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley.
Strait’s CD Twang debuted at #1 on The Billboard 200 chart and the Top Country Albums chart. This is the fourth time in Strait's career that a new release has debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the 13th time debuting at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. His current single is “The Breath You Take.”
Named the Academy of Country Music’s Artist of the Decade last year, George Strait was nominated for this year's ACM Entertainer of the Year for the 12th time and Top Male Vocalist for the 20th time, bringing his all-time record to 81 ACM nominations.
One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 55 million albums worldwide, earned 33 #1 singles and was recently recognized as the biggest female hit-maker in country music history by “Billboard,” “Mediabase” and “Country Aircheck.” She is the winner of 15 American Music Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 7 Country Music Awards and 2 GRAMMY Awards.
Reba is a 2010 CMA Nominee for “Female Vocalist of the Year.” The superstar recently surpassed the one million fan mark on Facebook, propelling her into an elite group of only 10 Country artists to achieve the popularity milestone. Reba’s unprecedented run of sales successes extended the superstar’s lead as the female artist with the most RIAA sales certification in Country music history. Also an acclaimed film, TV and Broadway actress, Reba signed with The Valory Music Co. in November 2008. The move reunited the multimedia entertainer with industry leader Scott Borchetta, now President and CEO of the Big Machine Label Group, which includes Big Machine Records, The Valory Music Co. and Republic Nashville.
Lee Ann Womack has sold over 6 million albums, won two Grammys and numerous other milestone awards. Womack’s current album Call Me Crazy has garnered critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, Billboard and The New York Times, to name a few. She was nominated for Top Female Vocalist at the ACM Awards in 2009 and the debut single “Last Call” was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Female Country Vocal Performance category. Womack nominated for “Musical Event of the Year” with George Strait for “Everything But Quits” at the 2009 CMA Awards.
For more information on the tour and ticket on sale dates, visit www.GeorgeStrait.com.
WITH REBA AND LEE ANN WOMACK
Nashville, Tenn. (November 5, 2010) -- George Strait fans who missed this year’s superstar pairing of King George, Phenom Reba McEntire and award-winning traditionalist Lee Ann Womack are getting a second chance in 2011.
“The George, Reba and Lee Ann tour is certainly one of the best on the road this year, offering an entertainment package perfect for cowboys, cowgirls … and city folk alike,” exclaims The Boot’s Vernell Hackett.
“All three of the performers – George Strait, Reba McEntire and Lee Ann Womack – delivered flawlessly in a concert perhaps best noted for its emphasis on performance over props or pyrotechnics,” says Amanda St. Amand of the St. Louis Post Dispatch.
“Call Strait the Bruce Springsteen of country music … ,” praises Jack Hill of the Arkansas Democrat Gazette .
“The icon appears to have no plans to slow down – good news, no doubt, to his fans,” says Larry Rodgers of Arizona Republic.
“No matter what the genre, singing doesn't get much better than this,” exclaims Geoffrey Himes of Baltimore’s City Paper.
At next week’s 44th Annual CMA Awards, King George is up for Male Vocalist of the Year award for the 24th time and is also nominated for Album of the Year for Twang, an award he won in 2008 for his critically claimed album Troubadour.
With a career spanning more than 30 years, George Strait has the most number one singles of any artist in history including Elvis (57 to date inclusive of all charts). He has sold nearly 69 million records and with 33 different platinum or multi-platinum albums has the most RIAA platinum certifications in country music and the third in all genres, behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley.
Strait’s CD Twang debuted at #1 on The Billboard 200 chart and the Top Country Albums chart. This is the fourth time in Strait's career that a new release has debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the 13th time debuting at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. His current single is “The Breath You Take.”
Named the Academy of Country Music’s Artist of the Decade last year, George Strait was nominated for this year's ACM Entertainer of the Year for the 12th time and Top Male Vocalist for the 20th time, bringing his all-time record to 81 ACM nominations.
One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 55 million albums worldwide, earned 33 #1 singles and was recently recognized as the biggest female hit-maker in country music history by “Billboard,” “Mediabase” and “Country Aircheck.” She is the winner of 15 American Music Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 7 Country Music Awards and 2 GRAMMY Awards.
Reba is a 2010 CMA Nominee for “Female Vocalist of the Year.” The superstar recently surpassed the one million fan mark on Facebook, propelling her into an elite group of only 10 Country artists to achieve the popularity milestone. Reba’s unprecedented run of sales successes extended the superstar’s lead as the female artist with the most RIAA sales certification in Country music history. Also an acclaimed film, TV and Broadway actress, Reba signed with The Valory Music Co. in November 2008. The move reunited the multimedia entertainer with industry leader Scott Borchetta, now President and CEO of the Big Machine Label Group, which includes Big Machine Records, The Valory Music Co. and Republic Nashville.
Lee Ann Womack has sold over 6 million albums, won two Grammys and numerous other milestone awards. Womack’s current album Call Me Crazy has garnered critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, Billboard and The New York Times, to name a few. She was nominated for Top Female Vocalist at the ACM Awards in 2009 and the debut single “Last Call” was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Female Country Vocal Performance category. Womack nominated for “Musical Event of the Year” with George Strait for “Everything But Quits” at the 2009 CMA Awards.
For more information on the tour and ticket on sale dates, visit www.GeorgeStrait.com.
Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Graves Mountain All-Star Jam (Rural Rhythm 55 year Celebration Live Album)
If you are a fan of good old bluegrass music and live festivals, this is definitely for you. The event took place June 4, 2010 at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music in Syria, Virginia. This is beautiful ,rural Virginia, in the foothills of The Blueridge Mountains. I have spent a lot of time camping near this area and I love it.(Celebrating 55 Years of Bluegrass Music)
Many great Bluegrass bands were involved and they played lots of traditional bluegrass. Musicians involved were Russell Moore and Third Tyme Out, The Crowe Brothers, Lonesome River Band. Mark Newton, Carrie Hassler, Brand New Strings, Carl Jackson, Lou Reid and Carolina, Audie Blaylock and Redline, a very natural live recording with musicians from different bands joining each other on different songs. The Emcee was Kyle Cantrell of Sirius-XM radio.
Songwise, personally I really loved "Grave's Mountain Memories" written by Carl Jackson, who was asked to write the song by Sam Passamano, in commemoration of the event, "55 year Celebration". It just exudes Hi-lonesome bluegrass and He does an excellent job of telling about the festival and the History of The Graves Family too. Performed by the Rural Rhythm All-Stars, Carl Jackson, Mark Newton, Audie Blaylock, Lou Reid, Russell Moore, Sammy Shelor, Mike Hartgrove, Wayne Benson, Mike Anglin plus special kudos to Carrie Hassler for adding female backup vocals to so many songs. The song has a beautiful melody, and the chorus is off the meter with the excellent harmonies. It's a song that stays in your head, unless you like grunge music.
What is evident at the event is the pure joy that the artists have in playing and singing together. These folk are clearly enjoying themselves and that is what music should be about.
Sound engineering was handled by Gene Daniell who has 30 years experience in recording Bluegrass and Acoustic performances. He was helped by Mark Newton in mixing, mastering process done at his own studio in Marietta ,Georgia. Produced by Sam Passamano Jr. and Mark Newton.
President of Rural Rhythm Records, Sam Passamano Jr. has a real heart for bluegrass music and was responsible for putting this together. One of the top pure bluegrass labels , this 55 year celebration shares the vision of Bluegrass music. If you visit RR's website, the music is split into traditional Bluegrass, and contemporary bluegrass. He cares for it all. Also, has a Christian Division.
Over the last couple of years I have reviewed CDs by most of these bands and they put out a real good sounding CD. But, I think they all sound better live. The High Lonesome harmonies are sweet, and there are so many folk singing on some of the tracks. There is a lot more music where this came from, They wanted to get what they thought most special and best out first. These twelve songs represent all of the artists involved, (I'm pretty sure). But I hear there are hours of audio and also video. How neat ,would a DVD be?
But, let us not get ahead of things. These songs however give you a real feel for real bluegrass. A combination of songs which are vocal and instrumental, it is a special recording.
"Ground Speed" by the RR All-Stars with Sammy Shelar and Carl Jackson featured on banjo is really good. "Old Dangerfield" is another great instrumental by Audie Blaylocks band and Wayne Benson on fiddle. There is some remarkable playing going on by these excellent players. A couple of more vocal standouts are "Head Over Heels" by Carrie Hassler with Brand New Strings, with special guest Brandon Rickman. Also, The Crowe Brothers sound really good with the Lonesome River Band on "Roll In My Sweet Baby's Arms".
Well, more words are not really going to do this music justice, please check it out.
http://www.ruralrhythm.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8RJyX4faB8
Many great Bluegrass bands were involved and they played lots of traditional bluegrass. Musicians involved were Russell Moore and Third Tyme Out, The Crowe Brothers, Lonesome River Band. Mark Newton, Carrie Hassler, Brand New Strings, Carl Jackson, Lou Reid and Carolina, Audie Blaylock and Redline, a very natural live recording with musicians from different bands joining each other on different songs. The Emcee was Kyle Cantrell of Sirius-XM radio.
Songwise, personally I really loved "Grave's Mountain Memories" written by Carl Jackson, who was asked to write the song by Sam Passamano, in commemoration of the event, "55 year Celebration". It just exudes Hi-lonesome bluegrass and He does an excellent job of telling about the festival and the History of The Graves Family too. Performed by the Rural Rhythm All-Stars, Carl Jackson, Mark Newton, Audie Blaylock, Lou Reid, Russell Moore, Sammy Shelor, Mike Hartgrove, Wayne Benson, Mike Anglin plus special kudos to Carrie Hassler for adding female backup vocals to so many songs. The song has a beautiful melody, and the chorus is off the meter with the excellent harmonies. It's a song that stays in your head, unless you like grunge music.
What is evident at the event is the pure joy that the artists have in playing and singing together. These folk are clearly enjoying themselves and that is what music should be about.
Sound engineering was handled by Gene Daniell who has 30 years experience in recording Bluegrass and Acoustic performances. He was helped by Mark Newton in mixing, mastering process done at his own studio in Marietta ,Georgia. Produced by Sam Passamano Jr. and Mark Newton.
President of Rural Rhythm Records, Sam Passamano Jr. has a real heart for bluegrass music and was responsible for putting this together. One of the top pure bluegrass labels , this 55 year celebration shares the vision of Bluegrass music. If you visit RR's website, the music is split into traditional Bluegrass, and contemporary bluegrass. He cares for it all. Also, has a Christian Division.
Over the last couple of years I have reviewed CDs by most of these bands and they put out a real good sounding CD. But, I think they all sound better live. The High Lonesome harmonies are sweet, and there are so many folk singing on some of the tracks. There is a lot more music where this came from, They wanted to get what they thought most special and best out first. These twelve songs represent all of the artists involved, (I'm pretty sure). But I hear there are hours of audio and also video. How neat ,would a DVD be?
But, let us not get ahead of things. These songs however give you a real feel for real bluegrass. A combination of songs which are vocal and instrumental, it is a special recording.
"Ground Speed" by the RR All-Stars with Sammy Shelar and Carl Jackson featured on banjo is really good. "Old Dangerfield" is another great instrumental by Audie Blaylocks band and Wayne Benson on fiddle. There is some remarkable playing going on by these excellent players. A couple of more vocal standouts are "Head Over Heels" by Carrie Hassler with Brand New Strings, with special guest Brandon Rickman. Also, The Crowe Brothers sound really good with the Lonesome River Band on "Roll In My Sweet Baby's Arms".
Well, more words are not really going to do this music justice, please check it out.
http://www.ruralrhythm.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8RJyX4faB8
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
