You Gotta Hear This Archives - Page 7 of 10

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Max McNown, Miss Tess, and More

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

Wherever you are on this wintry week, we hope our collection of roots music premieres warms you all the way up. We expect it will!

In this edition of our premiere roundup, don’t miss a brand new track from stupendous string trio, The Devil Makes Three, who debuted “Ghosts Are Weak” from their upcoming album on Wednesday on BGS. Plus, there’s straight-ahead bluegrass to be found, too, from Tyler Grant, who pays homage to a towering train bridge on “Goat Canyon Trestle.”

Singer-songwriter Bre Kennedy has reimagined “Before I Have a Daughter,” a song co-written with Lori McKenna about breaking generational cycles, healing, and motherhood. (A theme shared with another premiere this week.) And, Tobacco & Rose repurpose a love song infused with a Buddhist twist with their new track, “Tara.”

In the mood for some music videos? Catch Leslie Jordan’s new video for a Sarah McCracken co-write, “The Fight,” that also grapples with parenthood, discipline, and family. And, the sensational Max McNown brings us the video for the title track for his brand new album, Night Diving, which releases today.

Just in time to shepherd out the once-in-a-lifetime blizzards across the Deep South, Miss Tess showcases her music video for “Louisiana,” a centerpiece of her upcoming album, Cher Rêve. Then Sarah Quintana, who calls New Orleans home, brings us down the road to the Big Easy with an artful music video made with Kat Sotelo for the title track of her soon-to-be-released project, BABY DON’T.

It’s all right here on BGS and, you know the drill – You Gotta Hear This!

The Devil Makes Three, “Ghosts Are Weak”

Artist: The Devil Makes Three
Hometown: Santa Cruz, California
Song: “Ghosts Are Weak”
Album: Spirits
Release Date: January 22, 2025 (single); February 28, 2025 (album)
Label: New West Records

In Their Words: “‘Ghosts Are Weak’ is about breaking free from destructive habits and patterns. It reflects on how leaving behind a substance or lifestyle often comes with losing certain friends along the way…” – Pete Bernhard

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Sister Sadie, Golden Shoals, and More

Posted on January 10, 2025June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

As usual, it’s Friday and we’ve got a handful of videos and tracks you gotta hear this week!

Kicking us off, bluegrass and old-time duo Golden Shoals offer their fresh, topical take on a classic from the American songbook with “New White House Blues.” Then, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney brings us along through a “Labyrinth in the Weeds,” a nostalgic track about the circuitous, non-linear quality of grief and loss.

GRAMMY-nominated bluegrass supergroup Sister Sadie return to the round-up with a new single, “If I Don’t Have You,” a Dani Flowers-penned love song that’s as good as love songs get – because it keeps it simple. To wrap up this edition, Evan Westfall (who you may know from CAAMP), debuts a fascinating and ethereal instrumental, “SISDM,” that’s timeless and modern all at once.

They’re all right here, on BGS, and you know what we think– You Gotta Hear This!

Golden Shoals, “New White House Blues”

Artist: Golden Shoals
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee / Vancouver, British Columbia
Song: “New White House Blues”
Album: The Dream and the Hunger
Release Date: January 17, 2025 (single)

In Their Words: “At the center of a Venn diagram featuring history, politics, and bluegrass music is a special kind of nerd. ‘White House Blues’ has always been a favorite of mine and I wanted to dive deeper into the story behind the McKinley assassination. The culprit, Leon Czgolsz (who is unnamed in ‘White House Blues’), was disillusioned by the inequity of the Gilded Age, and felt his actions would usher in a revolution for the working class. He truly was the Luigi Mangione of his day. The consequent presidency of Teddy Roosevelt looks like a win for the common man, but that idea is a house of cards. The motives of these assassins resonate with me, but these moments highlight this fact: without collective action, true and lasting change will never come. Through this 10-verse murder ballad, we pay tribute to Charlie Poole’s initial recording of ‘White House Blues’ by gradually speeding up, which builds tension and atmosphere.” – Mark Kilianski

Heather Maloney, “Labyrinth in the Weeds”

<a href="https://heathermaloneymusic.bandcamp.com/album/exploding-star">Exploding Star by Heather Maloney</a>

Artist: Heather Maloney
Hometown: Northampton, Massachusetts
Song: “Labyrinth in the Weeds”
Album: Exploding Star
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Label: Signature Sounds

In Their Words: “This song is an ode to one of my earliest and most favorite memories at my childhood home, which was at the edge of the Appalachians in northwest New Jersey. My dad would let the grass in the field grow until late summer. When it came time to mow, he didn’t cut it down all at once– he’d weave through on the John Deere, making a sort-of maze for us kids and we’d follow behind.

“I remember how it felt so viscerally; the smell of the grass, the crunch under my feet, and especially the giddy feeling of losing sight of him when he rounded a new corner. After he died this actually came to mind. I had a sense that my dad, who was always making a game out of things, had just rounded another kind of new corner I couldn’t yet see past. It was a comforting thought and the inspiration for the song.” – Heather Maloney

Sister Sadie, “If I Don’t Have You”

Artist: Sister Sadie
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “If I Don’t Have You”
Release Date: January 10, 2025
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “I don’t write too many love songs. Most of the songs in my catalog are admittedly pretty depressing. But ‘If I Don’t Have You’ is just that – a love song about loving someone so much that everything you’ve ever wanted or hoped to accomplish now pales in comparison to the need you have to be with that person.” – Dani Flowers

“Dani Flowers came to me with this sweet melody and the first two lines of this song. We finished it that day. This is my favorite kind of love song; simple melody and simple lyrics. It doesn’t get much better than Dani’s angelic voice singing about how going through life and experiencing the most amazing things wouldn’t mean half as much ‘If I Don’t Have You.'” – Deanie Richardson

Track Credits:
Dave Racine – drums
Deanie Richardson – fiddle
Gena Britt – banjo
Mary Meyer – mandolin, piano
Maddie Dalton – Upright bass
Seth Taylor – Acoustic guitar, electric guitar
Dani Flowers – Lead vocals
Jaelee Roberts – Harmony vocal

Evan Westfall, “SISDM”

Artist: Evan Westfall
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Song: “SISDM”
Album: Is This Our Exit?
Release Date: January 8, 2024 (single); January 24, 2024 (album)
Label: Super Sport Records

In Their Words: “This song came together by accident after I started tuning my guitar with no direction and stumbled into the tuning of EBEF#BD#. This song title is a reference to an essay by the Columbus-based poet Hanif Abdurraqib about the transition from summer to fall. You can really feel that shift in seasons here in Ohio, the excitement that comes with the fresh start of something like a new school year or football season, even though that season ends up in bare trees and cold grey skies. It’s a hopeful melody, but overly dramatic.” – Evan Westfall

Track Credits:
Evan Westfall – Guitars, banjo, drums
Dan Alvarez – Guitars, banjo, bass, drums
Jordan Dunn-Pilz – Guitars, drums

Photo Credit: Golden Shoals by Mike Dunn USA; Sister Sadie by Allister Ann.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Hanneke Cassel, Zoe & Cloyd, and More

Posted on December 6, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

This week, our premiere roundup is full of brand new music videos and performance videos for your viewing pleasure.

Fiddler and composer Hanneke Cassel kicks us off with an exciting, dance-ready remix of “Dot The Dragon’s Eyes” that celebrates the 10th anniversary of her album by the same name. Then Zoe & Cloyd bring a touching and heart-wrenching number, “Linemen,” inspired by their experiences in Asheville post-Hurricane Helene and set to stunning footage of the flooding’s destruction.

Don’t miss two sessions, too! Judy Blank continues our special encore series of Rootsy Summer Sessions captured earlier this summer with a two-song performance from Falkenberg, Sweden. And the hilarious troubadour Robbie Fulks shares “I Just Lived a Country Song” during our inaugural Good Country Goodtime variety show held earlier this fall. We’re so excited to bring you clips and sessions from that special show while we look ahead to more Goodtimes in 2025.

It’s all right here on BGS, and You Gotta Hear This!

Hanneke Cassel, “Dot The Dragon’s Eyes” (Eric Wright Remix)

Artist: Hanneke Cassel
Hometown: Somerville, Massachusetts
Song: “Dot The Dragon’s Eyes” (Eric Wright Remix)
Release Date: December 6, 2024

In Their Words: “I released my tune ‘Dot The Dragon’s Eyes’ on an album by the same name in 2013. I was trying to think of a way to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the album and realized 2024 was the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese Lunar calendar. I had been wanting to work with Eric Wright (cellist from the acoustic string band, The Fretless, and member of the electronic band, Speaker Face) so I asked him to do a dance remix tune.

“From 2002 to 2012, I traveled to Shanghai every spring as a retreat – to visit friends, play fiddle at migrant schools, orphanages, and other events, and to perform a concert in the Shanghai Arts District. These were transformative years for me – personally and musically – and after one visit I wrote the tune ‘Dot The Dragon’s Eyes.’ The title comes from a Chinese story that describes putting the finishing touches on something (dotting the eyes!) to bring it to life. The music video that goes along with this remix attempts to paint a picture of one of those days in Shanghai – complete with dumplings, karaoke, walks in the park, and more.” – Hanneke Cassel

Zoe & Cloyd, “Linemen”

Artist: Zoe & Cloyd
Hometown: Asheville, North Carolina
Song: “Linemen”
Release Date: December 6th, 2024 (video)

In Their Words: “‘Linemen” was born from an honest, immediate experience. After 16 days with no power in our neighborhood following Hurricane Helene, we heard that linemen had been up on the narrow, washed out, backside dirt road near our homes assessing the situation. This road is still the only way into our neighborhood after flooding destroyed our bridge over Cane Creek on September 27. On the night of October 12, there was much anticipation and anxiety regarding the feasibility of power restoration amid so much damage. Our neighbor down on the creek, Doug Norton, a songwriter himself, sent us some lyrics that came to him after a ‘muse visit.’ We were all ‘sharing the same moment,’ to quote Doug. From his words, we were inspired to create this song.” – John Cloyd Miller

Video Credit: Mountainwater Films

The Good Country Goodtime: Robbie Fulks, “I Just Lived A Country Song”

On September 27, Good Country and BGS debuted our brand new variety show, the Good Country Goodtime, at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles. The inaugural show, hosted by country and bluegrass singer-songwriter Robbie Fulks, featured comedy, country, and performances by musicians Victoria Bailey and Aubrie Sellers, comedian and actor Kurt Braunohler, and our all-star Goodtime house band led by the Coral Reefers’ Mick Utley.

Dynasty Typewriter is one of LA’s premier spaces for comedy, music, podcasts, improv, and so much more. The very first Good Country Goodtime was captured by the venue’s state-of-the-art cameras and we’re so excited to begin sharing exclusive sessions pulled from our debut edition of the show with our readers and fans. To kick off the new series, we’re highlighting our impeccable host for the evening, Robbie Fulks.

More here.

Rootsy Summer Sessions: Judy Blank

While much of the U.S. – and really, much of the Northern Hemisphere – has been plunged into the frigid throes of winter, let’s stroll back to balmy summer and to Falkenberg, Sweden. During Rootsy Summer Fest ’24 our videographer friends at I Know We Should were once again on hand to capture a few special live performances of artists and musicians from the festival lineup. Earlier this year, we featured an entire series of sessions from Rootsy Summer Fest ’23 (view those videos here), so we’re especially pleased to bring you these special encore performances captured this August.

For our latest session, we’re excited to introduce our BGS audience to indie-folk artist Judy Blank. Born and raised in the Netherlands – though now based in Nashville, Tennessee – Blank has her own sort of transatlantic style, combining textures and tones from Music City, Los Angeles, Europe, and beyond. Pop sensibilities combine with a raw earthiness that feels authentic and grounded, while simultaneously polished and highly conceptualized.

Watch the full performance here.

Photo Credit: Hanneke Cassel courtesy of the artist; Zoe & Cloyd by Valerie Eidson.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Aaron Burdett, Nic Gareiss, and More

Posted on October 25, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

Here’s a flock of brand new songs and videos you gotta hear! This week, our premiere round-up includes Americana, fiddle tunes, percussive dance, good country, string band excellence, and more.

Don’t miss new tracks like “Second Best,” from Americana singer-songwriter and Steep Canyon Rangers vocalist Aaron Burdett, and “China Camp,” a fiddle tune written by Paul Shelasky and performed by Amy Kassir with Jake Eddy and more. Also, Wisconsin’s own Them Coulee Boys drop “I Am Not Sad,” a song that grapples with mental health from their upcoming 2025 album, No Fun In The Chrysalis.

We’ve got some superlative videos this week, as well! Percussive dancer and folk musician Nic Gareiss dances us through a gorgeous, queer rendition of a Gillian Welch song, “Back Turn and Swing,” and alt-folk trio Palmyra have brought a live field recording of “Fried,” a song from their brand new EP, Surprise #1. Meanwhile, Eilen Jewell pays tribute to Loretta Lynn and spotlights the progress and regression of the last 50 years of reproductive rights activism with a cover of “The Pill.”

To wrap us up, we don’t want you to miss the latest AEA Session, premiered in partnership with AEA Ribbon Mics on BGS earlier this week. This edition of the series features Brit Taylor & Adam Chaffins, performing live at Americanafest last month.

It’s all right here on BGS and, certainly, You Gotta Hear This!

Aaron Burdett, “Second Best”

Artist: Aaron Burdett
Hometown: Saluda, North Carolina
Song: “Second Best”
Release Date: October 25, 2024
Label: Organic Records

In Their Words: “You might say ‘Second Best’ was a song 30 years in the making. I’ve had this line from an old David Wilcox song rattling around in my head since the ’90s. It always struck me as a phrase that could be interpreted in many different ways. So I eventually started playing with that idea and bouncing it off various scenes and situations. A year or so ago I landed on the one (or two) that ended up in the recording, along with the original Wilcox line that inspired the chorus. Some songs arrive quickly, and some arrive much more slowly!” – Aaron Burdett

Track Credits:
Aaron Burdett – Vocals, acoustic guitar
Kristin Scott Benson – Banjo
Carley Arrowood – Fiddle
Tristan Scroggins – Mandolin
Jon Weisberger – Upright bass
Wendy Hickman – Harmony vocals
Travis Book – Harmony vocals

Nic Gareiss, “Back Turn and Swing”

Artist: Nic Gareiss
Hometown: Lansing, Michigan
Song: “Back Turn and Swing”
Release Date: October 25, 2024

In Their Words: “When I heard Gillian Welch’s song ‘Back Turn and Swing,’ I was immediately drawn to the way it brings the listener into the scene of a dance event: musicians tuning up, someone cooking potluck food to pass around, the excitement in the air, folks eager to get up onto the floor. The lyrics evoke the feeling of the square and contra dances I grew up attending in the rural Midwest. At the same time, as a non-binary queer person, I feel bodily unease around how the song sets up the dualistic gender of the attendees.

“Many folk dances these days have adopted expansive and inclusive dance calls, like using ‘larks and robins,’ ‘lefts and rights,’ etc. (shoutout to Michigan’s Looking Glass and Ten Pound Fiddle contra dances, Detroit’s queer square dance, Asheville’s Old Farmer’s Ball, and Brooklyn’s Gayli). Yet I’m still compelled to check beforehand that the caller – the authoritarian voice at the front of the hall telling people what to do with their bodies – is onboard with same-sex couples dancing together or trans and genderqueer people expanding these roles. This past summer a partner and I were at a dance when someone in their 20s asked us mid-set, ‘Who is the man?’ This reminded me that there’s still work to do; inclusivity still requires advocacy and allyship to help all feel welcome in the dynamism of the dance floor.

“Speaking of dynamic, as a child I saw John Hartford and was both astonished and inspired by the soundscapes he could create; dance, music, and song all embodied in one person. I aspire towards that dance-as-music in this video, where I added a few lyrics to the last verse.” – Nic Gareiss

Video Credits: Filmed by Blake Hannahson. Audio mixed by Jaron Freeman-Fox.

Eilen Jewell, “The Pill”

Artist: Eilen Jewell
Hometown: Boise, Idaho
Song: “The Pill”
Album: Butcher Holler: A Tribute To Loretta Lynn
Release Date: October 22, 2024 (single); November 15, 2024 (album)
Label: Signature Sounds

In Their Words: “The amazing thing about ‘The Pill’ is that it still feels edgy today, nearly 50 years after its original release. Loretta infused it with so much sassy defiance that, even now, when I sing it live and reach the phrase ‘now I’ve got the pill,’ some fans pump their fists while others clutch their pearls. It still strikes a nerve, a testament both to how effective this song is and how little progress we’ve made in this country in terms of reproductive rights.

“Loretta still holds the prestigious record for the singer of more banned radio hits than all other male country artists in the twentieth century combined. And ‘The Pill’ was the most banned of all of her songs, which is saying a lot. By recording and performing it live, I hope to do my part to spread the word about the importance of public access to family planning as an integral part of a woman’s right to the pursuit of happiness. It’s hard to believe this fight is still going on, but until it’s over I’ll be here for it.” – Eilen Jewell

A note from the artist: A percentage of sales from “The Pill” will be donated to Planned Parenthood.

Video Credits: Bill Hurley at The Fallout Shelter in Norwood, Massachusetts

Amy Kassir, “China Camp”

<a href="https://amykassir.bandcamp.com/album/bread-and-butter">Bread and Butter by Amy Kassir</a>

Artist: Amy Kassir
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina. Currently lives in San Rafael, California.
Song: “China Camp”
Album: Bread and Butter
Release Date: October 25, 2024

In Their Words: “‘China Camp’ is a great tune by the legendary California fiddler Paul Shelasky. I first heard it on the 1983 Good Ol’ Persons record, I Can’t Stand to Ramble, and I’ve been obsessed ever since. While so many tunes on my album are ‘bread and butter’ fiddle tunes I grew up playing in North Carolina, I wanted to include a tune that represents the rich musical legacy of California, which has been my home for the last 10 years. I’m so thankful Paul gave me his blessing to record this tune.

“This recording features Jake Eddy on guitar and banjo, Korey Kassir on mandolin, and Carter Eddy on bass. It’s such an exciting tune to play, and we had a lot of fun bringing it to life.” – Amy Kassir

Palmyra, “Fried”

Artist: Palmyra
Hometown: Richmond, Virginia
Song: “Fried”
Album: Surprise #1 (EP)
Release Date: October 24, 2024
Label: Oh Boy Records

In Their Words: “As we have ventured into playing bigger stages and festivals, our sound has expanded significantly. While the core of Palmyra remains the three of us, we’ve been experimenting with a larger four-piece sound, as heard on the recorded version of ‘Fried’ on our new EP, Surprise #1, with Oh Boy Records. ‘Fried’ is our most ambitious acoustic experiment, starting with a drum set and a hypnotic repetitive guitar lick. Recording the song acoustically with one microphone in a field was a fun way for us to find the core of the tune. It was a challenge to see how many elements we could strip away and still keep the groove. We like to call ‘Fried’ our ‘jam band’ song, and we hope even this field recording gets you on your feet.” – Palmyra

Track Credits:
Written by Sasha Landon, Mānoa Lewis Bell, and Teddy Chipouras.
Sasha Landon – Mandocello, voice
Teddy Chipouras – Guitar, voice
Mānoa Bell – Upright bass, voice
Jake Cochran – Drums

Video Credit: Elliott Crotteau

Them Coulee Boys, “I Am Not Sad”

Artist: Them Coulee Boys
Hometown: Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Song: “I Am Not Sad”
Album: No Fun In The Chrysalis
Release Date: October 29, 2024 (single); February 28, 2025 (album)
Label: Some Fun Records

In Their Words: “‘I Am Not Sad‘ is the last song on the record and captures the theme of accepting change this record focuses on. I’ve struggled with my mental health my whole life, dealing with depression, anxiety, and issues with self worth. I’ve embraced those issues in my songwriting, hoping to shine a light on things that we all go through from time to time. We have plenty of songs that talk about these issues, but this one is the first that accepts them.

“The song is built around the phrase ‘I am not sad anymore, at least not today.’ It’s a celebration of the happiness in the moment, while acknowledging that there’s times when it’s harder. It’s about being thankful for the good times, and letting them stack up on one another for when the bad times come. It’s a declaration, a moment of catharsis, while knowing that it won’t always be like that.

“Sonically it starts sparsely, with elements of the band being added with each verse, like confidence growing in one’s self as you begin to believe. It’s self-assured, with strummed mandolin and piano a backdrop for growth. When the bridge lyrically introduces the idea that these positive feelings might not last, the musical interlude represents the choice to embrace that realization. An ethereal, almost dream-like backdrop sets up the catharsis of the last verse. When the last verse hits, it invites all the good feelings back for a triumphant jam. It’s loud and snarls in the face of the hard times. It’s meant to soar and it does.” – Soren Staff

AEA Sessions: Brit Taylor & Adam Chaffins, Live at AmericanaFest 2024

Artist: Brit Taylor & Adam Chaffins
Hometown: Hindman, Kentucky (Brit), Louisa, Kentucky (Adam); now, both call Nashville home.
Songs: “Little Bit at a Time,” “Holding On Holding Out,” “Trailer Trash,” “The Best We Can Do Is Love,” and “Saint Anthony”

In Their Words: “It was fun playing and talking about new songs on some incredible sounding AEA gear with Brit Taylor on the Bell tone sessions!” – Adam Chaffins

“Brit and Adam’s songs are personal, yet universal. They are warm in person and it’s clear they spend a lot of time together singing, playing, and writing. Their vocals weave and intertwine so effortlessly.” – Julie Tan, AEA Ribbon Mics

More here.

Photo Credit: Aaron Burdett by Mike Duncan; Nic Gareiss by Blake Hannahson.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Adam Chaffins, and more

Posted on October 4, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

We’re excited to kick off October with a mighty New Music Friday and our first edition of You Gotta Hear This for the month.

You’ve simply gotta check out new music videos from folks like Darin & Brooke Aldridge (who pay tribute to Byron Berline with a track featuring Vince Gill), Buffalo Wabs & the Price Hill Hustle (who’ve brought us a charming animated music video), Claire Hawkins (who wrote her selection, “Oh Daisy,” while living in France), and Rachel McIntyre Smith teams up with Janelle Arthur to premiere her Honeysuckle Friend Sessions with a live cover of “Strawberry Wine.”

Plus, Darren Nicholson premieres his bluegrass track, “Windows Have Pains,” and singer-songwriter, vocalist, and bassist Adam Chaffins feels capable of anything on “Little Bit At A Time.” Our longtime friends Jamie Drake and Justin Wade Tam have teamed up on a brand new single as well, entitled “Free.”

To wrap up, don’t miss our final Yamaha Session in our latest series with the brand. It features Jack Schneider performing his original song, “Don’t Look Down.”

It’s all right here on BGS and You’ve Gotta Hear This!

Darin & Brooke Aldridge, “A Million Memories (A Song For Byron)”

Artist: Darin & Brooke Aldridge
Hometown: Cherryville, North Carolina
Song: “A Million Memories (A Song For Byron)”
Album: Talk of The Town
Release Date: October 4, 2024 (video)
Label: Billy Blue Records

In Their Words: “We’ve all had people in our lives who have believed in us, loved us, taught us, and guided us, hoping that we could see in ourselves what they have always seen. It isn’t just about teaching and shaping someone, it’s about helping them discover what they can do from within themselves. For us, it is one of our greatest joys to invest time and encouragement to those who come behind us. It is one way to pay forward the gifts given to us from our own heroes and mentors, to help bring out the best in younger people in the same ways someone did for us.

“We were reminded of these truths the first time we heard ‘A Million Memories (A Song for Byron).’ It was written by our friend Vince Gill in honor of fiddler extraordinaire Byron Berline, who was one of Vince’s closest mentors and dearest friends. Byron invited a young Vince to play banjo and guitar in his band, Byron Berline and Sundance, in the late ’70s, and took the clearly talented Gill under his wing. They remained close until Byron’s death in 2021.

“We’re incredibly honored to share the music video for ‘A Million Memories (A Song for Byron).’ As the song is extra special to us, for the meaning behind it and having the chance to sing it with a special mentor and friend. We will always treasure this opportunity to make ‘A Million Memories.’ We hope the video brings back cherished memories to those that watch the video and hear this incredible song.” – Darin & Brooke Aldridge

Track Credits:
Darin Aldridge – Vocal, mandolin, guitar
Vince Gill – Vocal
Brooke Aldridge – Vocal
Mark Fain – Acoustic Bass
Stuart Duncan – Fiddle
Brent Rader – Percussion, piano

Video Credit: Produced and directed by Jenny Gill.

Buffalo Wabs & the Price Hill Hustle, “Vagabond’s Lament”

Artist: Buffalo Wabs & The Price Hill Hustle
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Song: “Vagabond’s Lament”
Album: Buffalo Wabs & The Price Hill Hustle
Release Date: October 24, 2024

In Their Words: “‘Vagabond’s Lament’ is an homage to so many places we know so well. The personification of each location lets the song read as a lost-love song in a way, which is a fun take on the visuals the tune lays out for the audience. It’s also a fun one to play; upbeat rhythm and driving solos get the crowds moving.

“One thing this ‘Vagabond’s’ showcases for the group is our affinity for harmony. It’s a real throwback to the sounds I personally grew up with – rich, churchy voices, the breathy ritardando at the end of the tune followed by a four-part harmonic crescendo into the final phrase, and that driving stomp of a beat. This tune really wraps up so much of what we do into three and a half minutes.

“The song fits perfectly with the overall mood and atmosphere of the album; old-time influence with modern flair. It’s a toe-tapping number that could be a hundred years old if you heard it on AM radio, which fits our style nicely. It’s something that will appeal to folkies and bluegrassers alike.” – Casey Campbell, drummer, vocalist

Track Credits:
Produced and engineered by Alex Lusht at Mind Ignition Studios in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Mixed and mastered by Alex Lusht.
Bill Baldock – Bass, guitar, vocals, banjo
Scott Risner – Mandolin, vocals, banjo
Matt Wabnitz – Guitar, vocals
Casey Campbell – Drums, vocals

Video Credits: Animation by Evan Hand; Fiddle and final image by Alex Hand.

Adam Chaffins, “Little Bit At A Time”

Artist: Adam Chaffins
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee via Louisa, Kentucky
Song: “Little Bit At A Time”
Release Date: October 4, 2024

In Their Words: “I started writing ‘Little Bit at A Time’ with Adam Wright in the fall of 2020, socially distanced on my front porch on a chilly, rain-drizzled day. The song was pretty much finished, but we both felt it was missing some more truth. The next summer, I went on a trip to the Colorado Rockies with some new friends, and, on a whim, we decided to hike a 14,000-foot mountain before the sun came up. I still remember the surreal feeling of standing on that peak after scrambling over boulders and hiking for hours to get to the top. The air was so thin above the treeline and the surroundings felt otherworldly. It was one of the most emotionally jarring events of my life. On the steep hike back down, I felt as if I were leaving a trail of lies behind me with each step. I had just totally surpassed any physical feat I ever thought I was ever capable of, making a monumental truth out of a lifetime of lies I had told myself. I felt capable of anything. In the fall of 2021, I got married and found the truth in love. I now have some new perspectives in life and, perhaps, the missing pieces to that song about delayed gratification.” – Adam Chaffins

Jamie Drake & Justin Wade Tam, “Free”

Artist: Jamie Drake & Justin Wade Tam
Hometown: Los Angeles, California (Jamie Drake); Nashville, Tennessee (Justin Wade Tam)
Song: “Free”
Album: So Many Melodies
Release Date: October 4, 2024
Label: Soundly Music

In Their Words: “‘Free’ was written over a Zoom session in 2021 as pandemic restrictions were beginning to lift. We talked about how this historical time had affected us — how the idea of ‘connection’ had taken on a whole new meaning and how we as humans had become more disconnected from ourselves and from nature in the process. For most, the need to stay connected to technology had become imperative as well as required; a reality that continues today. Maintaining a healthy relationship with our screens is an extremely difficult balancing act. ‘Free’ is a bit of a wake up call to remind us to take a break when we feel the call, to get back into nature and live in a more balanced way, connected to each other in the present moment instead of the narrative on our screen.” – Jamie Drake & Justin Wade Tam

Track Credits:
Written by Jamie Drake and Justin Wade Tam.
Justin Wade Tam – Vocal, acoustic guitar
Jamie Drake – Vocals, acoustic guitar
Juan Solorzano – Electric guitars
Ross McReynolds – Drums
Alec Newnam – Bass
Produced, engineered, and mixed by Jordan Lehning.
Mastered by Casey Wood.
Additional engineering by Reid Sorel.

Claire Hawkins, “Oh Daisy”

Artist: Claire Hawkins
Hometown: New York City, New York
Song: “Oh Daisy”
Release Date: October 4, 2024 (video)

In Their Words: “‘Oh Daisy’ was one of the first songs I wrote during my time as an artist-in-residence in France. That time abroad really inspired me to think about my own hometown and what it means to identify as a New Yorker. In writing ‘Oh Daisy,’ I thought back to my earliest memories of wanderlust as a child growing up in New York City. Children see the world through such a different lens and it was interesting to explore how much my worldview has evolved, thanks to the time I’ve gotten to spend with different cultures around the world. When it came time to shoot the music video, I really wanted to capture a certain light-hearted free-spiritedness, but balance it with a feeling of internal conflict. Working with Meg, I think we were able to reflect the challenge of the comforts of home fighting against the curiosity that pulls us away from what we know.” – Claire Hawkins

Track Credits:
Written and performed by Claire Hawkins.
Produced by Hana Elion.

Video Credit: Directed and edited by Meg Mann.

Rachel McIntyre Smith & Janelle Arthur, “Strawberry Wine” (Honeysuckle Friend Sessions)

Artist: Rachel McIntyre Smith & Janelle Arthur
Hometown: Oliver Springs, Tennessee (both Rachel and Janelle)
Song: “Strawberry Wine” (Deana Carter cover)
Release Date: October 5, 2024

In Their Words: “The Honeysuckle Friend Sessions are a companion video series to go along with my latest EP, ‘Honeysuckle Friend.‘ In this series, I invite my friends who are talented musicians to cover a song with me. I was over the moon when Janelle Arthur said that she would join me for this series! Having the opportunity to sing with Janelle was such a cool experience because we are both from the same hometown (Oliver Springs, TN) and I have admired her and her artistry since I was really young. I grew up watching her perform, voting for her on ‘American Idol,‘ and listening to all her music. Her voice is incredible, and so is she. I love ‘Strawberry Wine’ by Deana Carter, so I was very happy when Janelle suggested it. I especially love the incredible riff that Janelle so effortlessly sings at the end of the song!“ – Rachel McIntyre Smith

“Rachel is so talented and dedicated to her craft. I was excited to collaborate and finally get to sing with my hometown girl! ‘Strawberry Wine‘ is such a classic and just felt like the right song to sing for this series.“ – Janelle Arthur

(Editor’s Note: Follow the Honeysuckle Friend Sessions series on Rachel McIntyre Smith’s YouTube Channel.)

Track Credits:
Written by Matraca Berg and Gary Harrison.

Video Credit: Filmed and edited by Rachel McIntyre Smith.

Darren Nicholson, “Windows Have Pains”

Artist: Darren Nicholson
Hometown: Haywood County, North Carolina
Song: “Windows Have Pains”
Release Date: October 4, 2024
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “What can I say? I love sad songs. I have since I was a small child. In an odd way, sad songs bring me comfort and happiness. I’m drawn to things that evoke emotion. When I first heard these words as a kid, I loved them. I never forgot how the hook and spirit of the song impacted me as a listener. The song was originally written by Wes Buchanan and all these years later, Mark Bumgarner and myself got down and dirty and wrote an additional verse to complete the song for us. I love this one. If you like ole timey music and enjoy your hurtin’ – this one’s for you.” – Darren Nicholson

Track Credits:
Darren Nicholson – Mandolin, octave mandolin, lead vocal, harmony vocal
Tony Creasman – Drums
Kristin Scott Benson – Banjo
Zach Smith – Upright Bass
Deanie Richardson – Fiddle
David Johnson – Acoustic guitar, Dobro
Jennifer Nicholson – Harmony vocal

Yamaha Sessions: Jack Schneider, “Don’t Look Down”

Our latest series of Yamaha Sessions concludes with a final performance from guitarist, songwriter, and producer Jack Schneider. (Watch the full series of videos, which include performances by Trey Hensley as well, here.)

For his second Yamaha Session, Schneider picks up his Yamaha FS9 R acoustic guitar to perform “Don’t Look Down,” an original song from his 2022 album, Best Be On My Way. While the studio version features Schneider’s longtime friend, Liv Greene, the track certainly shines solo in this context, as well.

Gentle fingerstyle picking gives way to tender vocals, text painting a long-suffering image with an ultimately hopeful tinge. It’s a song about keeping your chin up, literally and figuratively. Written during the turmoil of the pandemic, the message in the lyrics is certainly not one of toxic positivity, making the moral within them even more resonant. It’s easy to tell Schneider is not just speaking to his listeners, but also to himself.

More here.

Photo Credit: Darin & Brooke Aldridge by Kim Brantley; Adam Chaffins by Natia Cinco.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Nefesh Mountain, Juliet Lloyd, and More

Posted on September 27, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

Quality over quantity is sometimes what it’s all about. This week’s edition of our premiere round-up is small but mighty, with brand new tracks and videos from a stellar collection of roots musicians.

To kick us off, singer-songwriter Juliet Lloyd brings us a properly spooky video for her track, “Call Your Wife,” which was filmed at an abandoned amusement park in West Virginia. The song is about anger and shame, growth and change, running away and getting caught back up in it again, too. It’s an excellent lead in to spooky and scary season, that’s for sure.

Next, our friends Nefesh Mountain have a gorgeous new fall-tinged video for an original song, “Regrets In The Rearview,” that features an all-star lineup of bluegrass legends. It’s a paean to gratitude, to living life for the moment, and celebrates finding peace – and a home – in movement and change. We think it’s the perfect song to put on for your drive to the pumpkin patch or apple orchard.

To wrap us up, California roots duo Two Runner – made up of Paige Anderson and Emilie Rose – perform “Late Dinner” live from a cozy front porch. They combine old-time, bluegrass, Americana, folk, and more into their own exemplary sound, which highlights the slightly melancholy story just perfectly.

It’s an apropos musical triptych for fall, for golden hour, for sipping some hot cider or cozying up beneath a blanket as the autumn rain falls outside. And, you know what we think… You Gotta Hear This!

Juliet Lloyd, “Call Your Wife”

Artist: Juliet Lloyd
Hometown: Washington, D.C.
Song: “Call Your Wife”
Album: Carnival
Release Date: October 25, 2024

In Their Words: “It’s funny to me that the most carnival-sounding song on the entire album is not the title track – it’s this one. ‘Call Your Wife’ was inspired by an anonymous text message that I got in the middle of the night. I had released another single from the album, ‘Pretty,’ a few weeks before, and it was a really personal song that parsed through my complicated feelings about an old relationship that I’ve mostly run from in the 20 years since. The text message said I wasn’t being fair to the guy in the song– and all of a sudden I was 18 again, feeling afraid and ashamed. And then I got angry.

“Todd Wright (who co-wrote and produced) and I managed to channel those feelings into a track that goes to a really unexpected place. It starts sweetly threatening and builds to a really satisfying, vengeful final chorus. I love the unhinged banjo and bass lines that kick in in the second verse. After we finished the track, I knew I wanted a video to match the vibe. The song and video for me are really about using art to process, to heal, and to connect with anyone else who has ever felt like they couldn’t speak up and confront their gaslighters and abusers.” – Juliet Lloyd

Track Credits:
Written by Juliet Lloyd & Todd Wright.

Video Credits: Produced by Mind in Motion.
Directed by Joshua Land and Victor Fink.
Featuring Todd Wright and Steve Quintilian.
Colleen Laffey, Zachary Buckley, Abigail Sussman – Production assistants
Shot at Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park in Rock, West Virginia.

Nefesh Mountain, “Regrets In The Rearview”

Artist: Nefesh Mountain
Hometown: New York, New York
Song: “Regrets In The Rearview”
Album: Beacons
Release Date: September 25, 2024 (single); January 2025 (album)
Label: Eden Sky Records

In Their Words: “We’ve spent the last number of years on the road, getting the band out there as much as possible, all with our now 3-year-old daughter, Willow! Needless to say, it can be hard to balance touring with writing sometimes, but when we finally sat down in early 2024 to write new material, dozens of songs just poured out of us. We spent those early months feverishly creating, composing, and refining our vision and voice for this next iteration of the band. The result of this musical alchemy is Beacons; our new double LP containing eight Americana songs with our electric band on disc one, and 10 more on the bluegrass-oriented disc two.

“We feel eternally grateful and beyond lucky to have become close with our heroes over the years and while our own band makes up much of the two discs, we also called on our friends Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Rob McCoury and Mark Schatz to bring this song to life! This particular song also marks an incredibly special first for us – our older daughter Millie is on it, beautifully singing the third part in the chorus and duetting with mom on verse four.” – Eric Lindberg

“‘Regrets In The Rearview’ kicks off the bluegrass half of Beacons and is a tune all about gratitude and living in the moment. It’s our own personal reminder to stay present and keep moving forward instead of dwelling too much on the past. It’s about finding some peace with the struggles we have, and we wanted to channel the blissful freedom we feel when we’re out there hitting the road.” – Doni Zasloff

Track Credits:
Written by Eric Lindberg and Doni Zasloff.
Doni Zasloff – Vocals
Eric Lindberg – Vocals, guitar
Stuart Duncan – Fiddle
Jerry Douglas – Dobro
Sam Bush – Mandolin
Rob McCoury – Banjo
Mark Schatz – Bass

Video Credits:
Shot in and around the communities surrounding Woodstock, New York.
Directed and conceptualized by Lindberg and Zasloff along with Rafael Roy & Kelin Verrette with All Solid Things.

Two Runner, “Late Dinner”

Artist: Two Runner
Hometown: Nevada City, California
Song: “Late Dinner”
Album: Late Dinner
Release Date: September 13, 2024
Label: Gar Hole Records

In Their Words: “‘Late Dinner’ is a song for all the people who have been ghosted and let down. That feeling of yearning for the perfect relationship dinner where everything feels glowy-warm amongst the candle light. I was cheated on/ghosted in a somewhat new relationship and cooked dinner that night yearning for the person to be there and wishing things were different. This song is a reminiscence about that time and hopefully relates to those who have made the ‘late dinner’ without the person ever showing up.” – Two Runner, Paige Anderson and Emilie Rose

Track Credits: Written by Paige Anderson.
Performed by Paige Anderson and Emilie Rose.
Video Credits: Filmed, recorded, mixed, and edited by Nick Futch.

Photo Credit: Nefesh Mountain by Rafael Roy & Kelin Verrette; Juliet Lloyd by Anna Haas.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Mason Via, Golden Shoals, and More

Posted on September 20, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

Our weekly premiere round-up kicks off this fine Friday with a new video from singer-songwriter Kelley Mickwee from her upcoming release; it’s the title track and her favorite song from her upcoming album, “Everything Beautiful.”

We continue with some bluegrassy old-time from duo Golden Shoals, showcasing “Milwaukee Blues,” a staple on their set lists and at their live performances. And, fellow bluegrass artist and songwriter Mason Via brings us his brand new single co-written with Charlie Chamberlain entitled, “Falling.”

To wrap up the week in premieres, don’t miss two new BGS-produced video sessions that hit the site this week. First, the latest in our Yamaha Sessions featuring shredder Trey Hensley, followed up by a bonus DelFest Session from Mountain Grass Unit celebrating their new EP, which dropped today.

It’s all right here on BGS and frankly, You Gotta Hear This!

Kelley Mickwee, “Everything Beautiful”

Artist: Kelley Mickwee
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Song: “Everything Beautiful”
Album: Everything Beautiful
Release Date: September 27, 2024
Label: Kelley Mickwee Music

In Their Words: “My favorite track on the record. A love song, which are rare and hard for me to write. This one started as a poem, sitting on my back porch one late afternoon as the dragonflies swarmed the yard and the hummingbirds fought over the feeder. I was all of a sudden just overcome with such deep love in my heart. Sent some words to my dear friend, Seth Walker, and he put this beautiful melody to it before I even woke up. It’s the first song we have written together of what I hope is many more to come.” – Kelley Mickwee

Golden Shoals, “Milwaukee Blues”

Artist: Golden Shoals
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Song: “Milwaukee Blues”
Release Date: September 27, 2024

In Their Words: “‘Milwaukee Blues’ has been a staple of our live show for years. It’s got a fun, silly vibe, but it’s about the very real perils of hoboing in the 1920s. That smiling on the outside/crying on the inside dichotomy is one of the most fascinating things about bluegrass and old-time music. Though we focus more on our original songs, our early tours were always based around fiddler’s conventions – Mt. Airy, Galax, Clifftop, etc. Playing old fiddle tunes and songs is how we started to forge our own sound and how we met our dearest musical pals. We’ve released collaborative old-time albums before (Milkers and Hollers and Tune Hash), but this is our first time stripping it down to the duo. We usually do one or two of these tunes at each show and we wanted to get them down for posterity, and for the old-time fans! Tracks will continue to trickle out over the next year, culminating in a full 14-track album.” – Mark Kilianski

Mason Via, “Falling”

Artist: Mason Via
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Falling”
Album: Mason Via
Release Date: September 20, 2024 (single)
Label: Mountain Fever Records

In Their Words: “I co-wrote this song with Charlie Chamberlain, who’s known for his work on several Songs From The Road Band albums. We initially crafted this track as a companion piece to ‘Melt in the Sun,’ another song on the upcoming record. Originally, we intended for it to be recorded with my psychedelic electric side project as a rock and roll party anthem. It wasn’t planned for this bluegrass album, but after bassist and dobro player Jeff Partin singled it out as his favorite from the extensive list of songs I shared with him and the producer, I decided to include it at the last minute. I’m glad we included it because it blends that distinctive Mountain Heart newgrass drive with lyrics that are perfect for getting people moving.” – Mason Via

Track Credits:
Written by Mason Via & Charlie Chamberlain.
Mason Via – Lead vocals, guitar
Aaron Ramsey – Mandolin
Jason Davis – Banjo
Jim Van Cleve – Fiddle
Jeff Partin – Bass, Dobro
Kyser George – Guitar
Brooks Forsyth – Baritone harmony
Nick Goad – Tenor harmony

Yamaha Sessions: Trey Hensley, “Can’t Outrun the Blues”

Our Yamaha Sessions continue, highlighting the top-notch Yamaha FG series of acoustic guitars and the killer musicians who utilize them. This time, we’re back with guitarist, singer-songwriter, GRAMMY nominee, and reigning IBMA Guitar Player of the Year Trey Hensley. For his second session in the series, he performs a growling original, “Can’t Outrun the Blues,” that highlights the grit and attack of his custom Yamaha FG9 R, resonant and bold in open E.

Hensley’s techniques are bluegrass through and through, with clarity and athleticism to his flatpicking that stand out even among his incredibly talented contemporaries. The ‘grassy skeletal structure behind his approach to the instrument is merely a springboard into other textures and styles. Here, in a modal and bluesy number, you can certainly hear the influence rock and roll, down home and contemporary blues, Southern rock, and country chicken pickin’ have on Hensley’s own writing and composition.

More here.

DelFest Sessions: Mountain Grass Unit, “Lonesome Dove”

For a special bonus edition of our DelFest Sessions from earlier this year, we return to Cumberland, Maryland and the banks of the Potomac River for an encore performance by bluegrass four-piece, Mountain Grass Unit. On September 20, the group will release a brand new EP, Runnin’ From Trouble, which features this original number, “Lonesome Dove,” as the lead track. In fact, at the time of the session’s taping, the band had just recorded the song a week prior.

“We had an amazing time at the riverside DelFest Session performing our new song, ‘Lonesome Dove,'” said mandolinist Drury Anderson via email. “Watching people float down the river while we recorded made the experience even more special. It was an honor to be part of such a unique series!”

More here.

Photo Credit: Mason Via by Michael Weintrob; Golden Shoals by Mike Dunn.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Crys Matthews, Rakish, and More

Posted on September 6, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

We’ve got an excellent collection of song and video premieres for you to kick off September!

Below, you’ll find a few country-tinged roots rock selections, from Blake Brown & the American Dust Choir, Kylie Fox, and Madeline Hawthorne. Stepping further into the country realm, check out tracks from Black Opry alumnus Crys Matthews – “The Difference Between” also features Chris Housman and Melody Walker – and from Steve Forbert, who sings “The Blues.”

New Jersey-based bluegrass group Magnolia Street String Band brought us a lovely video for their original, “By the Light of the Moon,” as well, and folk duo Rakish, who are experts in Irish, Scottish, and American folk, debut their Jamie Oshima-produced tune, “765.”

To cap it all off, don’t miss the latest edition of our Yamaha Sessions, featuring Vince Gill guitarist, singer-songwriter and producer Jack Schneider.

It’s all right here on BGS, and You Gotta Hear This!

Blake Brown & The American Dust Choir, “North Star”

Artist: Blake Brown & The American Dust Choir
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Song: “North Star”
Album: Show Me The Light
Release Date: October 4, 2024
Label: We Believers Music

In Their Words: “Simply put, this song is a dedication to my wife and daughter. When I sit down with a guitar and don’t try to write, usually a lyric rolls out, which is when I know I’m on to something; a crumb, a nugget, a clue, a hint to a song… something there that leads me to chase and complete a thought.

“In this case it was the line, ‘Your eyes will always be my guiding light, North Star in the darkest night,’ and I just built the song around that notion. I think it’s the most literal, direct song I’ve ever written. We’ve been through a lot together and when I drill down, or even think of my day-to-day life… it’s them. It’s all them. They guide me. We’ve been out here building this life together and they keep me grounded. When I stray and when I’m out in that deep, deep ocean (figuratively), I look for the stars; their eyes. They reel me back in. They are my ‘North Star.'” – Blake Brown

Track Credits:
Written by Blake Brown.
Blake Brown – Vocals, guitar
Tiffany Brown – Vocals
Jordan Espinoza – Drums
Jason Legler – Bass
Chris “Frenchie” Smith – Guitars

Steve Forbert, “The Blues”

Artist: Steve Forbert
Hometown: Meridian, Mississippi
Song: “The Blues”
Album: Daylight Savings Time
Release Date: September 20, 2024
Label: Blue Rose Music

In Their Words: “Will blues music fans give this song a listen because of the title – or will country music fans hesitate because of the title? As you can hear right away, it’s not a blues song. In fact, it’s a happy sounding country kind of song. But it’s literally about that old feeling called ‘the blues.’

“Robert Johnson sang, ‘The blues is a lowdown, shaky deal. If you ain’t never had ‘em, I hope you never will.’ My sentiments exactly.” – Steve Forbert

Track Credits:
Steve Forbert – Vocals, acoustic guitar, harmonica
Rob Clores – Keyboards
Gurf Morlix – Electric guitar
Aaron Comess – Drums
Byron House – Bass
Layonne Holmes – Backing vocals

Video Credit: Tom Parr

Kylie Fox, “Sequoia”

Artist: Kylie Fox
Hometown: Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Song: Sequoia
Album: Sequoia
Release Date: September 13, 2024

In Their Words:“I was listening to CBC Radio in the car one day. There was a story about how firefighters stayed up throughout the night to save a sequoia tree that was in a forest fire in California. I was struck by how we so often take beautiful, old things for granted – like our environment, like our grandmothers – until we are faced with an experience where they are compromised. Verse one speaks of the tree, verse two speaks of my grass-is-always-greener relationship to the small town of Fredericton, where I live. I brood over wishing I lived in a more exciting city, forgetting that all my favorite people are here. The last verse I speak of my love, Ryan, who I can take for granted sometimes when I get caught up in things revolving around myself.” – Kylie Fox

Track Credits:
Written by Kylie Fox.
Kylie Fox – Vocals, acoustic guitar
Kelly Waterhouse – Piano, flute, saxophone
Sean Hutchins – Electric guitar
Camilo Villamizar – Bass guitar
Ryan Barrie – Drums

Video Credit: Directed and edited by Jillian Acreman.

Madeline Hawthorne, “Howl at the Moon”

Artist: Madeline Hawthorne
Hometown: Bozeman, Montana
Song: “Howl at the Moon”
Release Date: September 13, 2024
Label: Madeline Hawthorne Music

In Their Words: “This is a song about what we want for our loved ones when we pass on. I don’t want them to just keep living, I want them to thrive. I want them to find love and happiness. I think my band and I captured the spirit and the essence of this tune so well at The Blasting Room. It has such a positive and fun energy to it. We are excited to play this one live on our upcoming tour with Goodnight Texas. I hope you all enjoy! Thanks for listening, XOXO.” – Madeline Hawthorne

Track Credits:
Written by Madeline Hawthorne.
Madeline Hawthorne – Vocals
Ace Engfer – Bass
Bill McKay – Piano, organ
Taylor Sims – Guitar
Taylor Tesler – Guitar
Sean Macaulay – Drums, percussion

Magnolia Street String Band, “By the Light of the Moon”

Artist: Magnolia Street String Band
Hometown: Highland Park, New Jersey
Song: “By the Light of the Moon”
Album: By the Light of the Moon
Release Date: October 4, 2024

In Their Words: “I wrote this song years ago walking my dog in the pines along the Delaware River. The moon was so brilliant that night. The light painted such a spectacular scene with shadows of the magnificent pine trees against the deep blue sky. This unforgettable visual inspired this song.

“My sister, Rita, and I used to play and sing together with friends at a full moon jam almost 15 years ago. Rita and I found a band through these gatherings and ‘By the Light of the Moon’ found its way into our repertoire. The original lyrics to the last verse were ‘We’ll make love by the light of the moon.’ Since I wanted to make a family friendly album, I changed the lyrics to, ‘We’ll dance ‘neath the light of the moon.’

“I’ve always hoped to record this song and had envisioned Alison Krauss on vocals. Nevertheless, I rallied my beloved band earlier this year to record this song as well as the other songs on our new album.” – Sheila Shukla, vocalist and songwriter

Track Credits:
Sheila Shukla – Lead vocals
Bobby Baxmeyer – Mandolin, banjo, Dobro, vocals
Bob Harris – Guitar
Gary Oleyar – Fiddle
Ron Greenstein – Bass
Nick Conte – Vocals

Video Credit: Rob Shotwell

Crys Matthews, “The Difference Between”

Artist: Crys Matthews
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “The Difference Between” (featuring Melody Walker & Chris Housman)
Album: Reclamation
Release Date: September 6, 2024 (single)

In Their Words: “When I heard Jason Aldean’s ‘Try That in a Small Town,’ I was so offended – not just as a Black woman, but as a proud Southerner. The audacity to think that there would be a South at all without my people is the kind of willful ignorance that keeps folks like me from feeling safe in country and Americana spaces. There are consequences to that kind of hateful rhetoric. That’s what the first verse line of this song is about, ‘So you can figure out it ain’t just your town that’s small,’ because being from a small town is no excuse for small-mindedness.

“I knew that’s what I wanted to say with this song and I knew exactly who I wanted to help me say it: my friends Melody Walker (co-writer of Molly Tuttle’s title track for her Grammy-winning record Crooked Tree) and Chris Housman. I’ve been such a fan of both of their voices and their writing for so long! Once I had the idea for this song, I asked them both to come over and the rest is history. Melody and I had just finished recording her song ‘Room‘ and so I knew our voices would sound so good together. And every time Chris sings he takes me to church. I knew that just getting the three of us together would lead to something good. It also meant a lot to have them featured on the actual track as well. Three LGBTQ+ artists, all of whom call Nashville home, showing that this is country too. It looks like you and it looks like me.” – Crys Matthews

Rakish, “765”

Artist: Rakish
Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts
Song: “765”
Album: Now, O Now
Release Date: September 12, 2024 (single); October 11, 2024
Label: Top Floor Records

In Their Words:“This track features two original reels, arranged by Conor and myself. We recorded these tunes at Spillway Sounds with Eli Crews engineering back in October 2023. Once we got back from the studio, we thought it might be fun to add some electronic production to this track, and asked our buddy Jamie Oshima to work some magic on these tunes. It was great to let him take the reins completely, and hear the track once he sent it back to us. His additions totally surpassed what we could have asked for. As acoustic musicians, Conor and I don’t often get to dip our toes into the world of electronic music, but this track enables us to experience a little bit of that sound world, which is really fun for us. We hope these tunes make you want to dance!” – Maura Shawn Scanlin, violin

Yamaha Sessions: Jack Schneider, “Gulf of Mexico”

Today, our Yamaha Sessions continue with a gorgeous and tender performance from guitarist, producer, and singer-songwriter Jack Schneider. Best known for his road gig with Country Music Hall of Famer Vince Gill, Schneider released his debut album, Best Be On My Way, to critical acclaim in 2022. The project features Gill, David Rawlings, Stuart Duncan, and more collaborating on Schneider’s vintage-tinged original songs, each dripping with the styles and sonics of ’60s and ’70s troubadours and Americana poets. His latest single, “When the Saints,” is a delicious, shuffling folk-rock ballad with deeply stacked vocal tracks and retro trappings that was released in late July.

For his Yamaha Sessions performance, Schneider chose “Gulf of Mexico,” another original – that is as yet unrecorded and unreleased – which showcases the warm, full, and deep sound of Schneider’s Yamaha FG9 R acoustic guitar. Resonant and rich, the drop D tuning accentuates the melancholy evident in the timelessly constructed song. A bright spruce top and sultry rosewood back and sides add up to a guitar that’s equally at home in folk and Americana as bluegrass and flatpicking. Schneider pulls excellent tone from the instrument, with impeccable intonation and confident touch whether picking or strumming.

More here.

Photo Credit: Crys Matthews by Mora May Agency; Rakish by Sasha Pedro.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Danielia Cotton, Unspoken Tradition, and More

Posted on August 30, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

To say good bye to the week and to August, we’ve got one more premiere round-up for the month – and, as always, You Gotta Hear This!

Among all the fine new music being released, we’re highlighting a handful of tracks newly minted or arriving very soon. First, there’s “Bring Out The Country (In Me),” the sole original number from Danielia Cotton’s new EP paying tribute to Country Music Hall of Famer Charley Pride. Then, check out singer-songwriter David Luning’s “Every Day I Am,” which explores the fear and anxiety of being a fugitive on the run.

As you continue, John Surge and the Haymakers bring us a properly Tex-Mex track, “Marisol,” from their upcoming album Maybe You Don’t Know Me. And, to bring us home, North Carolina-based bluegrass outfit Unspoken Tradition have a stellar cover of Alabama’s hit, “I’m In a Hurry (And Don’t Know Why).”

It’s all right here on BGS and You Gotta Hear This!

Danielia Cotton, “Bring Out The Country (In Me)”

Artist: Danielia Cotton
Hometown: Hopewell, New Jersey
Song: “Bring Out The Country (In Me)”
Album: Charley’s Pride: A Tribute to Black Country Music
Release Date: August 29, 2024
Label: Cottontown LLC with Symphonic Distribution

In Their Words: “Coming to New York City from a small town was a major transition for me. What surprised me was how much of my small town ways and sensibility I didn’t lose. The big city can engulf you, however that made me more myself and embrace more of my country roots. Big cities, especially New York, are full of what is seemingly countless numbers of confident people, when in fact so many are struggling with the same need to define themselves and stand out. I think I finally realized that what makes me most unique is when I am true to myself.” – Danielia Cotton

Track Credits:
Danielia Cotton, Marc Copely – Songwriters
Danielia Cotton – Lead vocals
Marc Copely – Guitars, backing vocals, programming
Andy Hess – Bass
Aaron Comess – Drums, percussion
Ben Stivers – Piano, organ
Rocco DeLuca – Pedal Steel
Produced, engineered, and mixed by Marc Copely at Casa Copely Recording, NYC.
Mastered by Greg Calbi.

David Luning, “Every Day I Am”

Artist: David Luning
Hometown: Los Angeles via Forestville, California (Near Petaluma)
Song: “Every Day I Am”
Album: Lessons
Release Date: September 6, 2024

In Their Words:“Movies, songs, and stories, particularly set in the American west, have highly romanticized the life of running from the law, but in reality, in the long run, it’s gotta suck. So much fear and anxiety all the time. Always on the run. ‘Looking over your shoulder.’ Fleeing the consequences of your actions. Can’t trust anyone. At least I know in my life, running from my fears or consequences of things that I’ve done has never improved a thing. So on the surface, ‘Every Day I Am’ is about somebody running from the law, but underneath lies the story of somebody that is ‘…always hoping that one day it’ll be alright,’ without realizing that it could be, if they stop running.” – David Luning

Track Credits:
Written by David Luning.
David Luning – Vocals, Acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano
Linden Reed – Drums
Ben Dubin – Electric bass
Dave Sampson – Electric guitar
Alex Leach – Electric guitar
Damien Lewis – Percussion, sound design

John Surge and the Haymakers, “Marisol”

Artist: John Surge
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Song: “Marisol”
Album: Maybe You Don’t Know Me
Release Date: September 6, 2024 (single); September 20, 2024 (album)
Label: Blackbird Record Label

In Their Words: “‘Marisol’ is a historical lament about a woman who claims ‘my love is like a heart attack, the kind of love that’ll keep you coming back.’ It has a rollicking feel that comes straight from the Doug Sahm playbook. The song has a natural Tex-Mex feel. I kept asking Tommy [Detamore], ‘What would Doug do?’ Detamore shared stories of producing Sahm’s final album, The Return of Wayne Douglas. We followed that inspiration and traveled down Sahm Highway.” – John Surge

Track Credits:
John Surge – Vocals, acoustic guitar
Randy Volin – Electric guitar, baritone guitar, harmony vocals
Brennen Leigh – Harmony vocals
Michael Guerra – Accordion
Brad Fordham – Bass
Tom Lewis – Drums
Floyd Domino – Organ
Kevin Jarvis – Percussion

Unspoken Tradition, “I’m In a Hurry (And Don’t Know Why)”

Artist: Unspoken Tradition
Hometown: Cherryville, North Carolina
Song: “I’m In A Hurry (And Don’t Know Why)”
Release Date: August 30, 2024
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “I was born in ’85, so ’90s country was a part of life during that period. I still use ’90s country to get back there, nostalgically. Alabama was an awesome country band, and vocally, this song is just so fun to sing. The a capella intro always grabbed my attention back then and knowing our band has so many capable singers, I wanted to give this one a try as a fun cover. As a father with a family, a full time job, and also juggling music and other things, the message of the song is a reminder to slow down some and enjoy the little things.” – Audie McGinnis, guitar and lead vocals

Track Credits:
Audie McGinnis – Guitar, lead vocals
Sav Sankaran – Bass, vocals
Tim Gardner – Fiddle
Zane McGinnis – Banjo
Ty Gilpin – Mandolin

Photo Credit: Danielia Cotton by Chía Messina; Unspoken Tradition by Sandlin Gaither.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Flamy Grant, the Wildwoods, and More

Posted on August 16, 2024June 20, 2025 by Justin Hiltner

To close out the week and celebrate New Music Friday, we’ve got an excellent assortment of track premieres from artists working in Americana, bluegrass, folk, and beyond.

Singer-songwriter Brendan Forrest has brought us “Lowdown Stray Dog Blues,” which features bluegrass and old-time favorites Dominick Leslie and George Jackson backing him up. Plus, the groundbreaking and buzz-worthy queer artist Flamy Grant shares her new track, “If You Ever Leave,” about faith and healing, growth and redemption.

Fiery bluegrass fiddler Andy Leftwich debuts a new, musically acrobatic instrumental single, “Aced,” which boasts an ace backing band of Matt Menefee, Byron House, and Cody Kilby. And, to finish us off strong, Nebraska-based Americana trio The Wildwoods have unveiled “There Goes the Neighborhood,” a contemplative track that explores ideas and feelings around gentrification and transformation.

It’s all right here on BGS and you know what we think… You Gotta Hear This!

Brendan Forrest, “Lowdown Stray Dog Blues”

Artist: Brendan Forrest
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Song: “Lowdown Stray Dog Blues”
Album: Daydreaming Music Fiend
Release Date: September 27, 2024

In Their Words: “I collaborated on this song with Dominick Leslie – IBMA winner and two-time GRAMMY Award Winner for Best Bluegrass Album with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway – and George Jackson – Australian American fiddler and IBMA winner who plays in the Jacob Jolliff Band, with Jake Blount, and countless other prominent groups. The collaboration with Dominick was the crux of the record and the reason I went to Nashville to record it in the first place. I’m a huge fan of his band, Hawktail, which is why I hit him up, and he said yes after listening to my demos. I knew at the time it was the only chance I’d have to work with him, because the pandemic had still held touring back (later that year, things blew up). Now he’s touring non-stop with Molly after their 2 GRAMMYs, and it’d be impossible to get him in the studio the way we did it.

“The recording session was lock and step, even though I’d never met George in person until he rang the doorbell moments before we recorded (nor had he heard any of the songs prior). He was informally invited to the session to ‘see what happens,’ and we knocked it out in just 2 or 3 takes. I think the instant success in the take was 50% the Nashville magic musicians and 50% the song speaking so effortlessly to us cats who have spent much of our lives dedicated to bridging the past Americana music spirit into the present.” – Brendan Forrest

Flamy Grant, “If You Ever Leave”

Artist: Flamy Grant
Hometown: Asheville, NC
Song: “If You Ever Leave”
Album: CHURCH
Release Date: September 27, 2024
Label: Glam & Glory Records

In Their Words: “It’s hard to heal where you’re being harmed. Sometimes, maybe even most times, the best thing a person can do to save themselves from a toxic place is to leave it. For queer folks and many others, church can be a place of real damage, and until the broader American church — and its God — have figured out how to love queer people properly, I intend to stick around and show them how it’s done. But I’ll also be pointing the way to the exits.” – Flamy Grant

Track Credits: Written by Flamy Grant.
Produced by Ben Grace.
Engineered by Charlie Chamberlain at Forty-one Fifteen Studio, Nashville.
Mixed by Latifah Alattas.
Mastered by David Wilton.

Flamy Grant – Acoustic guitar
Megan McCormick – Electric guitars
Juan Solorzano – Pedal steel
Will Honaker – Bass
Megan Jane – Drums
Andy Sydow – String arrangement
Sav Madigan – Violin and viola
Katie Larson – Cello

Andy Leftwich, “Aced”

Artist: Andy Leftwich
Hometown: Carthage, Tennessee
Song: “Aced”
Release Date: August 16, 2024
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “As musicians, we know that the journey never ends. You’re always trying to be better at your craft, always exploring new ways to approach certain things in music, and forever growing and learning. Every once in a while, you begin to see results of your hard work and it begins to pay off. When you get pickers like Cody Kilby, Byron House, and Matt Menefee together, good things happen. These guys are ‘Aces’ at their craft, and I’m honored they would pick with me on this song!” – Andy Leftwich

Track Credits:
Andy Leftwich – Fiddle, mandolin
Byron House – Upright bass
Cody Kilby – Acoustic guitar
Matt Menefee – Banjo

The Wildwoods, “There Goes the Neighborhood”

Artist: The Wildwoods
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska
Song: “There Goes the Neighborhood”
Release Date: August 16, 2024

In Their Words: “The song ‘There Goes the Neighborhood’ was written as a tribute to our hometown of Lincoln, NE and the gradual transformation of the familiar places we think of as ‘home,’ evolving from charming old buildings to modern structures that feel unfamiliar.

“Noah sparked the idea for the song and had been singing the chorus hook, ‘…there goes the neighborhood…’ for months just around the house. One rainy Tuesday afternoon back at home, while reminiscing about our old favorite local sandwich shop that had been transformed into a bank, we finished the rest of the song together in one sitting.

“This transformation from recognizable to unknown mirrors our own growth as a band and as individuals, reflecting the changes we’ve experienced over time. The lyrics and melody perfectly capture the bittersweet essence of these changes. The ending line of the chorus, ‘There goes the neighborhood, gone with the echoes of time,’ blends a sense of melancholy with acceptance and hope, enhanced by the lighthearted melody of the chorus. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the past while embracing the possibilities of the future, resonating deeply with anyone who has felt the inevitable passage of time and the shifts it brings to our surroundings and ourselves.” – The Wildwoods

Track Credits: Written by The Wildwoods.
Chloe Gose – Vocals, violin
Noah Gose – Vocals, acoustic guitar, percussion
Andrew Vaggalis – Vocals, upright bass
Engineered and mixed by Noah Gose at The Goosenest Studio in Lincoln, NE.

Photo Credit: Flamy Grant by Ash Perlberg; the Wildwoods by Sarah and Jeanne Vaggalis (S+J Photography).