From outlaw twang to crisp ballads, pedal steel to electric guitar, and toe-tapping to head-nodding, this week's Pew Playlist spans across all of the elements that set Americana apart. Without further ado, here is this week’s Pew Playlist presented in the order they were added to the list. Music is sorted for an enjoyable “mixtape”... Continue Reading →
The Pew Playlist: July 24, 2020 (The day late edition…)
A roundup of the latest in Americana, alt-country, folk, and bluegrass music. Yes, the Pew Playlist is supposed to be published each Friday. But some things are worth the wait. This week we're featuring plenty of traditional sounds, with a few appearances from their more modern counterparts. Without further ado, here is this week’s Pew... Continue Reading →
Interview: Ida Mae
A year ago, Chris Turpin and Stephanie Jean, otherwise known as London roots-rock duo Ida Mae, pulled up stakes and relocated to Nashville. Was that scary? “Yes!” Turpin says with a laugh. “It was less scary since it was the two of us together. It wasn’t until we landed that we realized how far away... Continue Reading →
Live Show Review: Caroline Spence
There are some things that defy the hands of time. At her recent concert at Nashville’s 3rd & Lindsley, Caroline Spence ended her show with the title track from her last album, Mint Condition. The song, a clear fan favorite, is an ode to the timelessness of love. However, the song could easily be used... Continue Reading →
Interview: Kellen of Troy
“It was the worst of times, it was the best of times, that’s more like it. The worst came first,” laughs Kellen Wenrich of the birth of his most recent project, Kellen of Troy, formed amidst life transitions, a breakup, and the demise of his band, Apache Relay. “There were a lot of things coming... Continue Reading →
The Monochromatic State of Americana
The Nashville-based Americana Music Association, who has taken up the mantel of preserving traditional music, making it known, and propelling it forward, defines “Americana,” in the musical sense, this way: “Americana is contemporary music that incorporates elements of various American roots music styles, including country, roots-rock, folk, bluegrass, R&B, and blues, resulting in a distinctive... Continue Reading →
Live Show Review: Colter Wall, Pilgrimage Festival
Colter Wall has burst onto the Americana music scene recently with the release of his self-titled album, produced by famed Nashville producer Dave Cobb. His music is straightforward roots country and folk, drawing influence from Johnny Cash, Townes Van Zandt, and Woody Guthrie. His voice is deep and snarled, which renders captivating stories about murder,... Continue Reading →