Jim Lauderdale’s album “The Birds Know,” his 39th, showcases ten captivating bluegrass songs in collaboration with the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys. Rooted in Southern values and inspired by various artists, Lauderdale addresses themes of love, hope, and socio-political issues. The songs blend humor and heartfelt lyrics, embodying the essence of Americana.
Aaron Irwin’s “Spark,” featuring the Aaron Irwin Trio, showcases a blend of Americana, folk, and jazz through original compositions. With Irwin on saxophone and bass clarinet, supported by guitarist Mike Baggetta and drummer Bill Campbell, the album emphasizes improvisation and lyrical melodies, highlighting their long-standing camaraderie and musical chemistry.
Dave Vargo’s fourth album, “Ghost Towns,” showcases his roots rock style, blending Americana with catchy melodies. Notable tracks include the reflective “Anything at All” and the hopeful “New Life.” While Vargo excels with inventive guitar work and storytelling, he sometimes falls into overly poppy territory, maintaining an engaging yet complex outlook on life’s challenges.
Erik Brandt is the leader of the Urban Hillbilly Quartet, blending Americana music with strong storytelling and dynamic performances. A high school English teacher in St. Paul, he has released nine quartet albums and four solo records, showcasing versatility on multiple instruments. Brandt’s engaging live shows feature collaboration with guest musicians.
Nick Justice’s seventh album, “Rain Dancing,” features collaborations with familiar musicians and introduces new textures through instruments like fiddle and banjo. Addressing themes of patience, performance, and mortality, the album blends Southern California vibes with folk influences. With introspective lyrics, it showcases Justice’s talent and may mark his breakthrough.
Kim Moberg’s fourth album, “All That Really Matters,” showcases her soothing folk music and explores themes of love, betrayal, social justice, and healing. Featuring collaborations with other artists and rich instrumentation by Grammy-nominated producer Jon Evans, the album is both melodious and impactful, emphasizing poignant lyrics and human experiences.
Tom Paxton and John McCutcheon reunite for their album “Together Again,” expanding on their previous collaboration. Featuring fourteen tracks, the album mixes humor, nostalgia, and socially conscious themes, including gun violence. While the tone is lighter than their last effort, the duo delivers heartfelt storytelling and reflects on aging and friendship.
Diane Coll’s fifth album, Strangely in Tune, marks a sonic evolution in her intimate folk style, incorporating diverse musical influences. Inspired by Kintsugi, the album explores themes of resilience amidst life’s dualities. It features new musicians and highlights the interplay of grief and joy, culminating in a complex yet enriching listening experience.
Ed Harris is a renowned American musician dedicated to Celtic music for over 30 years. His latest album, “Echoes Through The Elderwoods,” features 14 captivating songs blending instrumental and vocal components. Harris’s mastery of multiple instruments enhances his artistry. Importantly, he donates all album proceeds to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Whitney Ross-Barris is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her engaging pop melodies and strong lyrics. Her album features a mix of catchy tunes and emotional blues, showcasing her vocal range. Highlights include “Up in the Night” and “Only at Night.” The album also features various skilled musicians enhancing her pop sound.
Emmylou Harris’s live album Spyboy, originally performed with a slimmed-down band, showcases a harder edge compared to the ethereal Wrecking Ball. This reissue includes five unreleased tracks and highlights the dynamic performances of Harris and her band, emphasizing improvisation and emotion. Fans are encouraged to explore this remastered gem.
Tommy Talton’s album “Seven Levels” reflects his artistic journey, emotional depth, and the context of a fractured America. Collaborating with friends, he produced a rich sound, blending southern rock and blues. Despite health struggles, he completed this project before his passing on December 28, 2023, leaving behind a poignant legacy.
Grant Lyle, a Canadian guitarist and singer-songwriter, blends soulful storytelling with blues influences in his latest album, “And Now.” Featuring eight original songs and a cover, the record showcases Lyle’s emotional honesty and musical evolution. With expressive vocals and intricate guitar work, he delivers heartfelt tracks that resonate with authenticity and gratitude.
Ross Neilsen, a seasoned Canadian blues musician, showcases his journey through his seventh studio album, “Within Tension.” The album features raw emotions and deep lyrics, exploring themes of struggle and identity. Produced in Memphis, it combines blues and soul, highlighting Neilsen’s authenticity and storytelling prowess in his music.
Greensky Bluegrass celebrates 25 years with their album XXV, showcasing their evolution through nine albums and extensive touring. The 75-minute record features 13 intricate songs, including collaborations with notable artists. Highlights include the energetic “Can’t Stop Now” and the epic “Last Winter in the Copper Country,” underscoring their unique jam-grass style.
In episode #322 of “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey,” Coastland Fair joins an array of artists including Orianthi, The Black Crowes, and Fleetwood Mac. The show features a diverse mix of tracks reflecting various rock genres, highlighting both new talents and legendary musicians.
Coastland Fair, formed by Tola Lamont and Kurt Michael, merges coastal soul with Americana, crafting songs blending folk, roots rock, and indie pop. Lamont’s emotive vocals and Michael’s vintage guitar tones create a unique sound rich in storytelling. Their music invites listeners on a heartfelt journey through life’s experiences.
Mark Miller’s album This Bridge showcases his talent as an Americana artist, featuring vivid narratives and poignant lyrics. Collaborating with renowned musicians, Miller explores themes of memory, heartbreak, and resilience. Notable tracks highlight personal experiences and evoke strong emotional imagery, affirming Miller’s status in contemporary music. This is a standout release of the year.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #320 features an array of guests and musical tracks. Highlights include Gwyn Ashton, The Rolling Stones, Robert Plant, and Billy Boy Miskimmin, among others, showcasing a diverse lineup of rock and blues songs, reflecting a vibrant music scene and rich variety of genres.
Joselyn Wilkinson and Don Barrozo return with “Lost & Found Highway,” their third album, reflecting their journey through memories, protests, and personal challenges. Collaborating with notable musicians, they combine powerful vocals and skilled guitar work while addressing themes of love, roots, and social issues, culminating in a message of resilience and affirmation.
Bill Scorzari’s double album, “Sidereal Days (Day 1),” showcases his literate songwriting and unique sound. Featuring personal and emotional tracks, it blends various musical elements with deeply reflective lyrics. Collaborating with top musicians, Scorzari’s distinctive voice enhances each piece, inviting listeners to engage fully with the music over multiple listens.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #320 features an array of guests and musical tracks. Highlights include Gwyn Ashton, The Rolling Stones, Robert Plant, and Billy Boy Miskimmin, among others, showcasing a diverse lineup of rock and blues songs, reflecting a vibrant music scene and rich variety of genres.
Euphoria Station is a Los Angeles progressive rock band formed in 2015 by Saskia Kraft van Ermel and Hoyt Binder. Their music blends Americana, rock, jazz, and folk, characterized by storytelling and emotive melodies. Their albums, including One Heart, The Reverie Suite, and Smoking Gun, showcase their evolving sound and commitment to heartfelt, complex music.
Gerry Casey’s “Turn it Up” show #318 features a diverse lineup of rock artists, including Star Collector and Gypsy Pistoleros. The episode highlights a variety of tracks, ranging from classic rock anthems to contemporary hits, creating an engaging listening experience for fans of the genre.
Sari Schorr, a Blues-Rock artist recognized for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics, emerged with her debut album “A Force of Nature.” Her music reflects personal struggles and global issues, emphasizing unity and compassion. Beyond music, she engages in humanitarian work and advocates for various social causes, embodying resilience and activism.
Gerry Casey’s “Turn it Up” show #318 features a diverse lineup of rock artists, including Star Collector and Gypsy Pistoleros. The episode highlights a variety of tracks, ranging from classic rock anthems to contemporary hits, creating an engaging listening experience for fans of the genre.
Richie Owens, raised in a musical family, navigates his artistic journey through rock, bluegrass, and country, producing for notable artists like Dolly Parton. His latest album, “Redemption,” reflects on personal losses and societal truths, blending powerful narratives and deep emotional insights, showcasing both sin and hope relevant to contemporary life.
The Turn it Up with Gerry Casey show #316 features an array of guests and performances. Highlights include Jessey Jackson, Scott McDonald, and Nikki Sparks, alongside tracks like “Gimme All Your Lovin'” and “Bohemian.” The lineup also features renowned artists like The Who, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix, delivering a diverse musical experience.
Dallas Burrow The Way The West Was Won Forty Below Records Dallas Burrow is a singer-songwriter in the country tradition. Burrow has four previous EP’s, released between 2012 and 2016; and three studio albums on Subliminal Records recorded between 2019 and 2023. He is a great storyteller and thanks his songwriting heroes Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Willie […]
The Turn it Up with Gerry Casey show #316 features an array of guests and performances. Highlights include Jessey Jackson, Scott McDonald, and Nikki Sparks, alongside tracks like “Gimme All Your Lovin'” and “Bohemian.” The lineup also features renowned artists like The Who, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix, delivering a diverse musical experience.
The show “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” features a variety of musical guests and artists, including Michael Allman, Robert Jon & The Wreck, and Paul Brady. A diverse setlist includes songs ranging from rock to blues, showcasing talents like Three Days Grace and Jerry Lee Lewis, creating an engaging musical experience.
Wesley Hanna’s album “Magnolia,” self-released, reflects his Texas roots with authentic country music. Featuring 15 collaborators, it includes emotive tracks about youth and family. Highlights include “Gulf Prairie Blues,” “Life in Three Quarter Time,” and a cover of “Magnolia.” Hanna shows promise, echoing influences from renowned Texas songwriters.
Mary Strand, initially aspiring to various careers, discovered a passion for writing after practicing law. Her debut novel, “Cooper’s Folly,” won an award, prompting her to pursue writing further, alongside music. Living in Minneapolis with her family, Strand balances her creative pursuits with playful interests and an admiration for adventure.
Robert LaRoche, a singer-songwriter and guitarist from Holyoke, Ma, began his career at fifteen. He formed the band ‘The Sighs’ in 1982, achieving success with their debut CD in 1992. LaRoche’s solo work includes “Patient Man” and “Forevermore.” His upcoming album, “Sacred Vow,” releases in September 2025.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #310 features various musical guests including Alan Maris of The Wanted, Santiago Periotti & The Soul Movers, and performances from artists like Metallica, Black Sabbath, and Joan Jett. The playlist spans rock genres with songs like “Hammer Of The Gods” and “Addicted To Love.”
UK rock artist Slyder Smith releases his new single “Nobody’s Listening” on August 15, 2025, addressing the struggle for connection in a distracted world. Produced by Robin Wynn Evans, the track combines gritty rock with emotional depth. Slyder, known from Last Great Dreamers, is evolving as a solo artist with an upcoming album in 2026.
Blind Lemon Pledge, the musical persona of James Byfield, has gained acclaim with his 2021 album “A Satchel Full of Blues,” topping blues charts. A lifelong musician influenced by various genres, Byfield’s work spans Blues, Folk, and Jazz. His unique compositions have earned numerous awards and international recognition.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases Indie Blues artists celebrating the genre’s evolution and diversity. These musicians honor the past while innovating for the future, creating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners, reflecting their individual realities and deep connections to Blues roots.
Stuart Blance is a Scottish singer-songwriter and photographer known for his acoustic music and uplifting lyrics. His new EP, “Fringe Benefits,” features songs like “Shine” and “As Scottish as Haggis,” celebrating themes of life, love, and self-belief. Blance’s work combines folk, Americana, pop, and rock influences, offering optimism and joy.
Remi Goode, a trained classical guitarist from Nashville, draws inspiration from artists like Suzanne Vega. Her debut album, “Things I’ve Said Before,” showcases a blend of folk and pop, featuring introspective lyrics and diverse instrumentation. The record hints at a promising future for Goode in the music industry.
Annika Chambers and Paul DesLauriers collaborate on their album “Our Time To Ride,” blending blues, soul, and rock. Chambers, influenced by gospel and the blues, has a diverse background, while DesLauriers is an acclaimed guitarist. The album features original songs and covers, showcasing their musical chemistry and soulful storytelling.
Woody Guthrie, born July 14, 1912, in Oklahoma, revolutionized American folk music with over 3,000 songs, including “This Land Is Your Land.” His legacy, maintained by family members, remains influential in music and social justice. Recorded in 1950, his work highlights the enduring spirit of resilience and introspection among marginalized communities.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #310 features various musical guests including Alan Maris of The Wanted, Santiago Periotti & The Soul Movers, and performances from artists like Metallica, Black Sabbath, and Joan Jett. The playlist spans rock genres with songs like “Hammer Of The Gods” and “Addicted To Love.”
The Texas Headhunters, comprising Johnny Moeller, Jesse Dayton, and Ian Moore, released a self-titled debut album filled with energetic songs reflecting their Texas blues roots. Recorded in five days, the album showcases their diverse talents, blending elements of blues, rock, and a lively spirit, providing both depth and entertainment throughout.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases Indie Blues artists celebrating the genre’s evolution and diversity. These musicians honor the past while innovating for the future, creating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners, reflecting their individual realities and deep connections to Blues roots.
Larry Keel and Jon Stickley, acclaimed flatpicking guitarists, celebrate acoustic music through dynamic harmonies in their new 5-track EP. Featuring lyrical tunes and cosmic instrumentals, the project showcases their skills and roots in bluegrass traditions. With influences from iconic musicians, their collaborative sound is both innovative and accessible.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #310 features various musical guests including Alan Maris of The Wanted, Santiago Periotti & The Soul Movers, and performances from artists like Metallica, Black Sabbath, and Joan Jett. The playlist spans rock genres with songs like “Hammer Of The Gods” and “Addicted To Love.”
Hayes Carll’s tenth album, “We’re Only Human,” combines country elegance with grit, focusing on self-forgiveness and positivity amidst imperfections. Collaborating with talented musicians, Carll delivers insightful songs that range from humorous critiques of societal issues to heartfelt reflections on life. The album embodies a refreshing outlook with strong storytelling and musical depth.
In episode #309 of “Turn it Up” hosted by Gerry Casey, a diverse lineup of musical guests, including Rusty Ends, Alice Cooper, and W.A.S.P., is featured. The show showcases various rock tracks, highlighting artists with unique styles and notable songs, such as “Feed My Frankenstein” by Alice Cooper and “Burn It To The Ground” by Nickelback.
Stephen Jacques is an acclaimed alt-rock artist with ten albums and an upcoming eleventh. Influenced by a rich musical heritage, he writes and performs in Charlottesville, Virginia. His song “Send Them Love” is popular across over 300 radio stations. His next album, “Groove Atlantic-O,” releases in summer 2023.