Gerry Casey interviews Stone James, a former member of The Dead Show Dealers, who now fronts the country-rock band Hollis Dorian. Known for his powerful riffs and honest songwriting, Stone blends rock energy with soulful storytelling, creating music that reflects his journey while delivering the same intensity fans expect.
ALO, a California rock band with over 30 years of history, comprises Dan Lebowitz, Steve Adams, Zach Gill, and drummer Ezra Lipp. Their new album “Frames” features diverse songwriting from all members, showcasing their strong friendship and musical synergy. The record blends emotion and humor, marking a significant evolution for the band.
Taylor Robert, originally destined for preaching, found his passion for music in the Minnesota Boy Choir. Influenced by blues and rock legends, he evolved into a solo artist with a distinct Roll N Soul sound. His latest album, Brighter Day, reflects on heartbreak and healing, featuring collaborations from notable Minneapolis musicians.
The Wildwoods, a Nebraska folk-American trio, released their fourth album, Dear Meadowlark. Their acoustic sound blends genuine folk and indie influences, showcasing warm harmonies. The band, formed in middle school, reflects on youth and home with engaging performances and introspective songs. Their talent hints at a bright future ahead.
Jim Stanard’s new album, Magical, showcases his distinctive lyrical style, blending humor and philosophy. Collaborating with notable producers and musicians, the project follows his acclaimed works, including Bucket List and Color Outside The Lines. Stanard, a late bloomer in music, reflects a rich blend of personal experience and creative exploration.
Geoff Arsenault’s third solo album, Hired Hand, showcases his roots in blues and New Orleans music, blending storytelling with social themes. Collaborating with notable musicians, the album features a mix of gritty vocals, infectious grooves, and diverse instrumentation. It offers a haunting and engaging journey through Arsenault’s musical landscape.
Massy Ferguson, a Seattle-based band, has released their seventh album, You Can’t Tell Me I’m Not What I Used To Be, marking a departure from their traditional country-rock sound. Produced by Damien Jurado, the album features vintage tones and rich instrumentation, showcasing the band’s evolution after nearly two decades in music.
Lance Cowan, a seasoned publicist, embarked on a surprising career as a singer-songwriter. His album “Against the Grain” features ten original tracks, showcasing a blend of acoustic influences, including Neil Young. With a diverse supporting cast, the album reflects his journey and struggles, capturing themes of love, loss, and social reflection.
Richie Lawrence’s album “Moving at the Speed of Trees” showcases his California Americana roots through collaborations with notable musicians. The album features personal narratives, including themes of immigration, hope, and environmental concerns. Its variety of musical styles and deep instrumental textures reflect Lawrence’s diverse experiences and pay homage to his late songwriting partner, Paul Lacques.
David Ramirez’s album “All the Not So Gentle Reminders” features twelve genre-blending songs created during a writing retreat in Alabama. This introspective work showcases dreamy soundscapes and rich arrangements, mixing elements of pop, jazz, and more. The album’s emotional depth and hypnotic quality create a unique auditory experience.
Red Camel Collective’s debut album showcases the seasoned skills of its quartet, previously backing Junior Sisk. Fusing bluegrass and classic country, the album features ten tracks, half originals, half covers. Highlighting themes of joy and self-acceptance, standout songs include “Daughter of the Stars” and a vibrant take on Charley Pride’s “Roll on Mississippi.”
Miss Georgia Peach, a country artist from Saint Paul, Minnesota, blends traditional country and rock. Signed to Rum Bar Records, she released her album “Class Out the Ass” on February 14, 2025. The album includes original songs and covers. She actively performs and has a release show on April 19, 2025.
Nighthawk’s “Street Dog” is Parker Hawkins’ eclectic second solo album, blending diverse genres with notable collaborators. Produced with Dave Coleman, it features rich instrumentation and themes ranging from relationships to social judgment. The album’s unique sound celebrates Hawkins’ journey, while honoring his late dog Jaco, offering listeners a varied musical experience.
Helen Cronin’s third album, “Maybe New Mexico,” showcases her evolution as a singer-songwriter with softer, acoustic sounds. Collaborating with Mitch Dane and various musicians, she explores personal themes like relationships, mortality, and the environment. Highlights include the poignant “Rifleman” and reflective tracks like “Not the Year.” Cronin’s vivid lyrics reaffirm her songwriting prowess.
The Seldom Scene, a renowned bluegrass band, celebrates over fifty years of musical evolution with their new album “Remains to Be Scene.” Featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary songs, the album honors founding member Ben Eldridge and showcases the current lineup’s talent, solidifying the band’s influential legacy in bluegrass history.
Sunny War’s new album, “Armageddon in a Summer Dress,” follows her breakthrough “Anarchist Gospel” and features several notable guests. Inspired by eerie experiences in her father’s old house, the album examines themes of memory and loss, blending punk and Americana influences. While some production choices overshadow her vocals, War’s talent shines through.
Madeline Rosene is an indie pop-n-roll singer-songwriter recognized for her sharp wit and genre-blending sound. Her debut album, “Raised on Porn,” addresses societal disconnect, while “Everyday Existential Crisis” delves into introspection. Collaborating with notable artists, she captivates audiences through thought-provoking lyrics and compelling performances, establishing herself as a distinctive voice in music.
Sean McConnell’s 15th album, “Skin,” showcases his skills as a songwriter and collaborator. Co-produced with a talented team, the album explores deep themes such as sobriety, faith, and personal growth. Each track offers listeners open-ended reflections, highlighting the expansive journey of self-discovery beneath the skin.
Andy Hanson, an Eau Claire, WI-based musician, embarks on a solo journey through folk and Americana with his debut album, “Roots.” This album delves into personal experiences and memories, reflecting how our past shapes us. Inspired by folklore and contemporary influences, it aims to empower listeners to confront their struggles.
Massy Ferguson’s seventh album, “You Can’t Tell Me I’m Not What I Used to Be,” showcases a departure from their traditional sound, blending lush instrumentation with layers and textures. Produced by Damien Jurado, the album features both familiar heartland rock and riskier psychedelic elements, resulting in an uneven but adventurous collection of songs.
Mother Coyote, the new alias of singer-songwriter Andriana Lehr, emerges with her EP “When The War Comes,” created alongside producer Andy Thompson. It reflects personal and collective change, featuring rich soundscapes and profound, personal lyrics that explore themes of birth, death, and healing, offering illumination during challenging times.
Making a Scene features an interview with 18-year-old singer-songwriter FINICK, based in Minneapolis. Known for their whimsical indie folk sound, FINICK merges personal emotions with imaginative storytelling, drawing inspiration from artists like Brandi Carlisle and Phoebe Bridgers. Their music aims to provide an escape for listeners.
Lucero’s latest release, “Unplugged: Liberty & Lament,” features acoustic renditions of 20 songs by frontman Ben Nichols and pianist Rick Steff. The double LP showcases a mix of popular and obscure tracks, highlighting Steff’s captivating piano work alongside Nichols’ emotive vocals. While the uniformity may feel repetitive, several standout pieces capture the band’s essence.
John Mailander’s album “Forecast: Let the World In” showcases a genreless blend of mostly instrumental, improvised music featuring violin, keys, and various instruments. The collection, designed as a continuous suite, offers exploration through cinematic compositions. Highlights include “Heartland” and a cover of Nick Drake’s “Road,” blending earthiness with otherworldly sounds.
Ellie Rollins, a talented singer-songwriter from California, blends country, rock, blues, gospel, and bluegrass in her music. After 20 years in Hawaii, she now lives in Los Angeles. With her upcoming album, Wind in the Trees, and its first single, she aims to share her heartfelt storytelling and resonate deeply with listeners.
Jennifer Marie, a singer/songwriter, returns with her sophomore EP, “Do It All Again,” after a hiatus to raise her family. Her music is a blend of personal storytelling and diverse influences, highlighting themes of resilience and self-discovery. Each track, from “Take Me Back” to “How Do I Get There,” reflects her authentic journey.
Diane Coll’s album “Up from the Mud” explores themes of healing from relational trauma, transitioning from dark introspection to brighter tones. The album features ethereal soundscapes and resonates with her experience as a mental health therapist. Closing with the hopeful “All Is Well,” it artistically embodies the interplay of pain and joy.
Dave Murphy’s seventh album, “A Heart So Rare,” explores themes of human fallibility through the lens of divorce, incorporating elements of surrender and forgiveness. A cancer survivor and respected performer, Murphy’s heartfelt songwriting and collaboration with notable musicians create a poignant reflection on life and hope for redemption.
Ron Houston, a singer/songwriter from the outlaw country band The Sickstring Outlaws, shares his journey of sobriety and self-reflection through a heartfelt 10-song album. Despite facing challenges, including a near-fatal illness, he collaborated with top musicians to produce impactful songs about a range of emotions, earning worldwide acclaim.
“Back On Track” marks Pure Prairie League’s return after nearly two decades, showcasing a blend of their classic and contemporary sound across twelve tracks. Featuring founding member John David Call and primarily original songs by current members, the album celebrates their musical roots while appealing to both old fans and new listeners alike.
Tristan Israel’s latest album, “Snake Hollow,” recorded in Martha’s Vineyard, showcases a diverse range of musical styles and poetic lyrics. The album explores various themes, from nature to personal reflections, featuring collaborations with skilled musicians. Notable tracks include “Massachusetts,” “House Always Wins,” and “Gotta Believe,” highlighting his creative evolution.
Billy Coulter, an acclaimed singer/songwriter, merges American Roots with British Power Pop, drawing inspiration from icons like Dylan and Bowie. His unique sound and songwriting have earned him multiple WAMMIE Awards and the Grand Prize in the Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest, showcasing his talent through energetic performances at top East Coast venues.
Daniel Boling, a celebrated folk songwriter, has won multiple awards and performs over 100 shows annually, sharing relatable story songs. With a rich musical background and influences from classic folk artists, his latest album, LOVE, DAN, features fresh compositions. He also engages senior communities with nostalgic performances.
Sam Graber, a prolific songwriter with over 500 songs and more than 1,000 live performances, showcases his creativity across genres like rock and big band jazz. A versatile multi-instrumentalist from Washington, DC, he also writes plays for the NYC stage while being a sought-after music writer and director.
Ron Houston Real Outlaw Americana Music Self released Ron Houston is a singer-songwriter based in San Diego but originally hailing from the Bakersfield area. The title, Real Outlaw Americana Music, may seem a bit hyperbolic but Houston has the goods, and then some. Like most outlaws, he has that baritone, weathered voice and comes across […]
David Harland is a talented singer/songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist inspired by greats like Michael Hedges and Nick Drake. His musical journey began at age 5, evolving into a passion for acoustic guitar and songwriting. David aims to connect deeply through music, blending emotion and melody in his prolific compositions.
The Doohickeys, a country music duo comprised of Haley Spence Brown and Jack Hackett, blend personal backgrounds and humor in their debut album produced by Eric Corne. Their songs have gained significant online popularity, winning competitions and showcasing their talent through live performances at notable venues, reinforcing their unique country sound.
Don Merckle is a singer/songwriter from Charleston, South Carolina, known for his blend of roots music and rock and roll. His work features emotional lyrics and a range of vocal styles. Merckle has previously led bands like Loch Ness Johnny and American Gun, and has performed with notable acts.
March to August’s album, Songs Inspired By Witness, reinterprets Karen Hesse’s novel about a Vermont town during Prohibition, addressing themes of invasion, freedom, and social evil, particularly through the character Reynard Alexander, a newspaper editor. The album’s sparse folk/bluegrass sound enhances the lyrics, which explore complex social issues and moral dilemmas.
*Splash!* captivates with heartfelt lyrics and melodies infused with philosophical and mystical themes. His upcoming album, “Breaking the Dam,” explores vulnerability and emotional release, symbolized by the rose. Join the album release celebration on Oct. 11th as the music encourages healing and embracing life’s beauty amidst challenges.
SWEET is a celebrated British rock band with over fifty years of influence across continents. Andy Scott is pivotal in preserving the band’s musical legacy and ensuring high-quality performances. The current lineup includes Paul Manzi, Bruce Bisland, Lee Small, and Scott, continuing to deliver the iconic high-energy sound of SWEET.
Amy Speace’s album, The American Dream, explores themes of nostalgia, resilience, and emotional turmoil beyond just heartbreak. Through evocative lyrics and collaboration with talented musicians, she reflects on personal experiences, societal fragility, and the pursuit of dreams. The album showcases her growth as an artist and resonant storytelling.
Emily Duff, a NYC-born artist, blends Sweet & Sour Rock & Roll with Country Soul in her music, reflecting themes of heaven, hell, romance, and regret. Since 2015, she has released six albums and a four-song EP, touring in the US and UK and hosting a monthly residency at NYC’s COWGIRL.
Sarah Pierce, born in Rockford, Illinois, to a family of cattlemen, began singing in her stepfather’s band at 12. Despite her medical science degree, she pursued music, touring globally and appearing on MTV. With multiple acclaimed albums, including “Barbed Wire” and “Blessed By The West,” she remains a prominent figure in country music, gaining CMA awards and IWMA nominations.
No Words ATL is a unique, community-driven 3-day instrumental music festival held across five venues in Atlanta from October 11 to 13. Showcasing twenty-two diverse performers ranging from classical to hip-hop, it offers a wordless musical experience. Headliners include Trap Jazz, Glenn Phillips, and Kebbi Williams. Tickets are $75 for three days or $30 per day.
Joy Clark’s album “Tell It to the Wind” highlights her journey as a Black, queer, Southern artist breaking through the music scene with support from artists like Brandi Carlile and Ani DiFranco. Produced by Margaret Becker, the album features themes of resilience, empowerment, and belonging, with a blend of gentle sonics and infectious choruses, marking Clark as an influential voice for survivors.
Jared McCloud transitioned from hard rock to a solo career, adopting a more substantive musical style. He found success with his indie debut “Romance Of The Atlantic” and continued to rise with “Painful Words Of Loving Grace”. After a difficult divorce, he crowdfunded his album “To Live And Die In Your Arms”, which achieved significant acclaim.
Randall Bramblett, a seasoned musician revered for his contributions to American roots music, showcases a blend of past experiences and present reflections in his thirteenth album, Paradise Breakdown. Celebrated for his lyrical prowess, Bramblett collaborates with renowned artists, offering a mix of soulful tracks and a testament to his enduring creative spirit.
Michael Reynolds, former lead vocalist/songwriter for Pinmonkey, stepped away from music a decade ago but continued to write songs. His surprise return with the album “Tarnished Nickel Sky” under Blue Élan Records showcases a poetic and evocative style. This album features 11 self-penned tracks, reflecting his journey, emotions, and growth.
Carolyn Shulman, a Denver-based folk singer-songwriter, started her musical journey in childhood and performed extensively throughout her education and adulthood. Balancing music with a legal career and parenthood, she returned to music full-time in 2014. Her acclaimed debut album “Grenadine & Kerosene” led to significant recognition. Carolyn is set to release her new album, “Heart on a Wire,” in September 2024, exploring deeper themes with rich production.
