independent thoughts on indie rock, alternative, and indie pop music
This past weekend, folk rock band Dawes played a two-night stand at The Ryman, and I’m not sure I will ever be the same. I can confidently say—and speak for everyone that was in attendance either of those nights--that something magical happened, and it set the bar for live music. Dawes is currently on an... Continue Reading →
“So a little fair warning. We like to talk about weed and sometimes religious stuff. Sometimes we cuss,” SUSTO frontman Justin Osborne cautioned the sold-out High Watt crowd last Friday night in Nashville. It was clear from the approving roar of the crowd that the venue was full of the band’s fans who were already... Continue Reading →
Last Saturday was that most special of unofficial holidays--Record Store Day--which has transcended its initial calling of promoting independent record stores and has morphed into an all-out celebration of music. Music brings people together like no other form of art, so it is fitting that Record Store Day now features parties throughout the country allowing... Continue Reading →
Austin-based glam-centric rock collective Sweet Spirit, on tour supporting their brand new album St. Mojo, brought its rowdy road show to the Music City recently, with a electrifying performance on The East Room's stage. Few rock harder than this bunch; originally conceived with country music in mind, front folks Sabrina Ellis and Andrew Cashen quickly discovered country... Continue Reading →
As bodies began to file into the Ryman Auditorium on Wednesday, April 12th, everything seemed normal--people were chatting about the show, what they do in the world, and the like. As the mother church began to look more and more like a sold out auditorium, the lights dimmed and the opener promptly took the stage.... Continue Reading →
Nestled in a repurposed warehouse district, Nelson's Green Brier Distillery is a bit of a Nashville hidden gem. Within the classic-meets-modern bourbon maker is a wonderful concert space, the Oak Room, the exposed brick and concrete of which was the perfect match for a secret show for bluesy rockers, The Weeks. Just last week, the... Continue Reading →
The third day of Rhythm N’ Blooms was destined to be one for the books--as we prepared mentally and physically for one last day in Knoxville, anticipation mounted as I perused the schedule for the day. First stop--the Cripple Creek Stage to check out Ruby Amanfu + Steelism. Steelism opened the set with a few... Continue Reading →
Knoxville’s Rhythm N’ Blooms Festival was greeted with perfect weather and a rocking lineup for the second day of events. First stop--the Pretentious Beer Co. secret show stage, where we were kindly surprised by a treat: John Paul White. Though he played solo, his voice and guitar rendered each awestruck attendee utterly speechless; with beautiful... Continue Reading →
The eclectic sights and sounds of Knoxville, Tennessee were on full display for the opening night of the Rhythm N’ Blooms Festival; taking place in the historic Old City portion of Knoxville, Rhythm N’ Blooms is as unique and diverse as the city it represents. Set up like a bar crawl, festivalgoers can jump from... Continue Reading →
Rising Appalachia is more than just a band--it’s a rallying cry in support of world music, social and economic justice, and cultural preservation. Upon entering the Cannery Ballroom last Thursday, it was apparent that we were about to experience no ordinary show. The normally barren corridors between the entrance and the stage were lined with... Continue Reading →
