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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
 Posted - 05/02/2011 : 16:52:50
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quote:
Originally posted by Isobelj
It is getting increasingly hard to determine what is and isn't country, and country itself obviously changes as decades go by.
Bob's interview with Sugarland should be very interesting indeed. They are over here now on a promotional visit.
Sugarland UK Promo Tour Diary:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVdIXRRKo50&feature=player_embedded
They have been on Irelands The Late Late Show, and next Friday, Feb. 11 will be on BBC's Graham Norton Show. Yesterday was their first full day in London, spent it at the News of the World studios. I think Jennifer remained dressed while taping an acoustic performance for them.
Their single 'Stuck Like Glue' seems be selling quite well over here on iTunes. Their American single 'Little Miss' sounds fine to me but what about the rest of the album. Alan Cackett Mavericks editor said on BBC Radio Kent on Wednesday he found it very difficult to find a country track on the new album - "Weird eastern sounds and whatever on it". He played 'Wide Open' the closest to country in his opinion. Will Bob continue to grow with Sugarland and will he ask them about their country cred 
Abigail Washburn Session - Her vocal takes some getting used too. An interesting conversation, well worth checking out.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00xnh64
Her music is hard to listen to at home, again another artist best appreciated live where you can see the musicians skills and capture the performance. |
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Isobelj
Frequently Whispers
749 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 16:17:30
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I'll look out for them. Sounds good.  'Weird Eastern sounds...'Hmmm. Interesting.
Thanks for agreeing back over the page Stock Car G, yes I think an open mind is the best thing. Sometimes I catch myself out and think I'm too set in what I like but generally do listen to a wide range.
Isobel |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 19:03:54
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Sugarland New Album - BBC Radio Cumbria on Sunday:
Source - http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p001d73b
" I've played it a couple of times and Oh dear it?s bad. I'm saying it's bad which is probably the wrong thing to say. It's very well produced, its very well put together, but country music it isn't...."We love to play different styles of country music and push the envelope a wee bit and push country music into areas it hasn't gone before but I think this album from Sugarland pushes it right over the edge actually... I have to say I find it hard work to listen too, I really don't think it is country music? "
But..
Isobelj - Sugarland have new fans the wonderful duo Jedward who said:
"Sugarland Rock....We don't know everything about them yet but we will be HUGE fans" 39secs onwards see video - http://www.sugarlandmusic.com/news/23353/page/2
The Incredible Machine came out yesterday in the UK.
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Isobelj
Frequently Whispers
749 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 23:08:05
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I love that reference about push the envelope a wee bit and push country where it has not been before ... but this pushes it right over the edge. It's just funny to read, not sure why.
But a recommendation from Jedward well, I don't quite know what to say! Umm.
I wonder if Sugarland are trying to be too clever, I don't know.
Although the BBC Cumbria comments amused me, I wonder if saying 'it's bad' is really fair, although there is a slight backtrack after that, rather than just saying 'I don't like it' which is not the same as it being bad.
Isobel
Edited just went over to the link and I really liked that track, I've liked Sugarland before and I'm confused now about whether I've heard anything else from this new album. The one that he played certainly seemed to qualify as country, and I really enjoyed it. He doesn;t seem to like her voice, which I would say is very much a real country voice so that is a bit confusing. But it's made me want to listen closely to the remainder of the album, or at least some of it.
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bobharris
The Whisperer
319 Posts |
Posted - 10/02/2011 : 17:20:24
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We recorded the acoustic session...it was totally wonderful. They are lovely people and Jennifer has an incredible voice. Really good atmosphere. As their road crew told me '...they treat people with respect!'.
I'm a huge fan.
Bob. |
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Jayhwak
Occasionally Whispers
84 Posts |
Posted - 10/02/2011 : 19:55:12
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Superb country show tonight great stuff. |
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anthony
Occasionally Whispers
119 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2011 : 00:29:28
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If Jennifer and Kristian played acoustic for Bob, then that will be a world away from the latest Sugarland record. Something to look forward to.
I must say it doesn't really bother me whether Sugarland play country or not - I have a certain admiration for Jennifer Nettles either way, but it is striking how clearly The Incredible Machine has moved from pop/country to pure pop. Some of it is quite banal to my ear, but just listen to Tonight. Maybe her voice is a bit crude, but let's be fair, it's kind of magnificent that anybody can sing that.
It's no more country than Jenny Lewis, in fact less so, but Jennifer Nettles wears cowboy boots and Jenny Lewis doesn't. I suspect that as far as their respective US audiences are concerned, that's what counts.
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2011 : 15:29:11
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quote:
Originally posted by anthony
If Jennifer and Kristian played acoustic for Bob, then that will be a world away from the latest Sugarland record. Something to look forward to.........I must say it doesn't really bother me whether Sugarland play country or not - I have a certain admiration for Jennifer Nettles either way, but it is striking how clearly The Incredible Machine has moved from pop/country to pure pop.
A agree that an acoustic Sugarland session is a different animal to The Incredbile Machine album. They have released 2 singles in America from it 'Stuck Like Glue' & 'Little Miss'. One wonders if anywhere why they will find a third single that country radio would play?
Last nights show very heavily weighted to Americana artists, nice to hear The Secret Sisters again though. Regarding Zoe Muth and Laura Cantrell, Bob made mention that it was alternative artists like them that are keeping "the true spirit" of country music alive. I think with singles by Sunny Sweeney and Mark Wills on the Billboard Charts they are doing just that.
On Monday I watched a feature on Showcase TV by an artist called Teea Goans, its on Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvPOVq69TdQ&feature=player_embedded
I was impressed with her vocal. I then found a CD review about her in January's Maverick Magazine - Download . The album title is aptly named 'The Way I Remember it', described by editor Alan Cackett "this is the kind of country music that traditionalists will be falling over themselves to embrace" - Spot on comment! Sample tracks here - LINK - Yes Country The Way We Remember it ! - http://teeagoans.com/
Robert Plant will play at MerleFest 2011 in late April
Robert Plant and Band of Joy will join host Doc Watson on the campus of Wilkes Community College for a celebration of "traditional plus" music - a term Watson coined to describe the unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian region, including bluegrass and old-time music and expanded to include Americana, country, "plus whatever other styles we were in the mood to play," he explained.
** So we have a new genre "traditional plus"
Country Slide - Year to Date Sales Down 14.3% - 9 Feb, 2011
Yes the country sales charts like Nashville are shivering from cold consumer reaction.
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anthony
Occasionally Whispers
119 Posts |
Posted - 13/02/2011 : 14:06:12
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I saw Abigail Washburn play at The Slaughtered Lamb the evening before she recorded her BHC session and when I saw that she was going to appear on BHC, I thought 'oh good, more Rayna'. But alas no. When Ms Washburn goes to meet Mr Harris, she goes alone.
It seems strange in a way that somebody would go to all the expense of bringing a five piece band across the Atlantic and yet perform unaccompanied for her biggest audience of all. And yet sure enough she gave an even better performance in her brief two songs plus impromptu banjo demonstration than she had with her band. Perhaps it chimes with Bob's constant advocacy of the under-produced sound. If you have something unique, keep it as unique as you can. Adding a standard rhythm section will just make it deviate towards the norm.
And so it was at The Slaughtered Lamb (which was packed incidentally). Abigail is obviously much taken with Kai Welch and his pals, but although they were very good they didn't seem to me to add any magic. You could never say that about Rayna Gellert though - everybody needs Rayna in their band. Here she was augmented by Brittany Haas of Crooked Still and the fiddle duet they played seemed to receive the biggest cheer of the entire show.
The show was a great success, but the magic of Abigail came out even better in the performance she gave for Bob. Such an extraordinary person - sometime lobbyist I could swear I heard her say, but also sometime teacher/relief worker. She is obviously possessed of huge creative energy - compositions exceptional in their diversity as well as their quality and a performing style all of her own. Although two songs wasn't enough, the two she played were full of uniqueness and quality, and even the CD track Bob played had just Rayna in support. All extremely effective - a show with just Abigail and Rayna would suit me down to the ground.
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 13/02/2011 : 14:51:35
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quote:
Originally posted by Isobelj
I really liked that track, I've liked Sugarland before and I'm confused now about whether I've heard anything else from this new album. The one that he played certainly seemed to qualify as country, and I really enjoyed it.
Isobel - Radio 2 made ir their Album of the Week last week. Listen while you can!
Monday 7 Feb 1hour 52 - Track 'Tonight' - Pop, but I'm liking very much ? Ken Bruce thought Jennifer had a "carrying voice" http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00y6lv5#segments
Tuesday 8 Feb , 1hour 51 - Track 'All We Are' - Track builds and then, blimey hard rock, Where is my air guitar ! Fantastic at a festival me thinks - Country it ain't one bit!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/b00y6n2v/Ken_Bruce_08_02_2011
Wednesday 9 Feb, 1hour 53 - Track 'Stuck Like Glue' http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/b00y8x5f/Ken_Bruce_09_02_2011
Thursday 10 Feb, 1hour 54 - Track 'Every Girl Like Me' - I find Jennifers voice a bit irritating on this, she sounds in pain, not the slightest bit country, some rap , loads of la,la la?s ( writers block for last verse ), cool Hammond organ sound , Verdict - MISS
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/b00y8zz0/Ken_Bruce_10_02_2011
Friday 11 Feb, 1hour 54 ? Track 'Find The Beat Again' - Pure pop, aimed at a live crowd with the Hey Hey ( Glitter-like), not sure about this.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/b00y90cn/Ken_Bruce_11_02_2011
Ken Bruce didn't really remark on the tracks. Alex Lester also played tracks through the week too.
If SUGARLAND are nominated for Vocal Duo at the CMA's this year, something is seriously wrong. The Incredible Machine is largely pure pop/rock.
Radio 2 have a review of the album "..this is the first Sugarland release to test the UK waters. It may lose something in translation - booming country-rock anthems don't always seduce the Brits..."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/x98r
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 19/02/2011 : 17:02:54
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Thursday Show 17 February
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006x527
1) Lady Antebellum = WELL DONE
Feeling my age this week, knew few acts on The Brits and then Linda Davis' daughter Hillary Scott picks up 5 Grammy Awards ! Great to see that on ITV2.
2) Wailin' Jenny's - 'Swing Low Sail High' = W.O.N.D.E.R.F.U.L
The "very beautiful and shimmering sound" said Bob. I loved it, thanks Bob, this glorious track belongs on the Radio 2 playlist. I see the album is out at the end of the month.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bright-Morning-Stars-Wailin-Jennys/dp/B004HD2ZEA/
'Swing Low Sail High' has sweet restful harmonies. Sampling rest of album it has a Americana, gospel, atmospheric and spiritual feel. Last track 'Last Goodbye' - Like this very much, lyrically more attention grabbing than the others.
3) SUGARLAND = R.E.S.P.E.C.T
Session - http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00f59sw
You may have been fragile after a heavy night at the BBC Folk Awards Bob but your judgement wasn't blurred as a "Real life human in a real live moment"
"Jennifer's voice on the ballad 'Tonight' was absolutely fantastic" said Bob - Agreed . "She really must have one of the best voices on the planet right now "..."The album is fabulous, we absolutely love it" - more fine words said.
The session really was very good indeed and I'm now eating my words above, dang I've become a Sugarland fan. Just as I thought though in acoustic mode a very different animal to the album cuts. Maybe there should be an "Unplugged Machine" follow-up
Yes I and country purist presenters were doubting their country cred and blowing hot air into the "S" that came out the "D", pouring water on their freight train success with finding very few songs that resemble country music. The "Sugarland formula" was bound to evolve and this is the first time I've heard them explain the song writing intentions of The Big Machine and its concept. Their music, country or otherwise, is all about translating the album sound to a big arena.
'Little Miss' was super live in session, I like this track a lot but it has staled a bit on the Billboard charts.
I loved how Jennifer and Kristian came across as people, their work ethic, views on recording and influences that create the parts of a complex Rube Goldberg-like machine.
Yes acts coming out now, not only do they have the country influences but they clearly love the pop/rock stuff and Sugarland are stretching the boundaries and perhaps jumping over its corners.
Bob noted with Sugarland that "Massive record sales are diminishing but yours are growing all the time into big big numbers". It's a shame Jennifer has to look carefully after her vocal and can't have the crazy rock & roll lifestyle she craves for!
This week Billboard revealed Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush brought home more than a $4 million total last year.
Were the BBC coffees for you and Al Booth on them Bob or was their music all the "restorative experience" you required
Terrific session - THANK YOU !
4) Abigail Washburn v Brian Hughes = CONFUSED
Regarding Abigail on Thursday Bob said he she has had "An incredible reaction to the session". Well I haven't noticed a buzz on this forum so it must been from people who have either seen her live or from a pro-active fan base. Her interview was indeed a very good conversation piece and her live clawhammer banjo playing techniques and songwriting craft are certainly recognised. The track City Of Refuge is for me a slow grower.
Apart from Bob's 8 tracks played there has been somewhat limited airplay for her away from Radio 2.
In contrast Brian Hughes album has had widespread airplay on local BBC and Internet stations gaining #1 chart postions on both the main and British Hotdisc charts with his single 'Damascus Road', from his 2010 album My Kind Of Paradise and HotDisc #142 Release.
Trying not come over in an Andy Gray way but is the music from a AAA/ Americana Illinois born and Nashville based songwriter more sexy than a Americana/Country songwriter from Dumbarton, Scotland
Brian has had no national radio recognition thus far. Both are using the same radio Digital transfer method and perhaps sending physical copy.
For yer average Radio 2 listener tuning in I'm sure Brian's music would hit the spot whilst driving the car, is more listenable but maybe doesn't have the songwriting refinement of Abigail.
Yes I know British Americana has had a look in with Two Fingers of Firewater "chaotic - but wonderful"(Bob Harris) but I feel Brian deserves a shot too. Does he have to change his first name to "Mark" to gain attention - Discuss.
http://www.abigailwashburn.com/website/
http://www.brianhughesmusic.com/brianhughes/Sample_Mix.html
http://www.brianhughesmusic.com
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anthony
Occasionally Whispers
119 Posts |
Posted - 19/02/2011 : 19:52:02
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Well if Bob says he has had a great response to Abigail Washburn's session, I feel sure you can take his word for it Andy, even if you don't agree. Perhaps everybody looked at my appreciative comments and felt I had put it so perfectly that they had nothing to add? 
Actually I heard another example this week of Bob eliciting a great performance. I noticed that Sugarland were on the Graham Norton show and although it would be beyond the call of duty to expect me to endure an hour of that tripe, I thought maybe they'll be on last and sure enough tuning in at end minus ten minutes I just caught them. Not much good I have to say. Irritating catchy pop song and Jennifer lapsing into her harsh rasping nasal voice. Not for me at all. And yet in the presence of the sacred Bob she comes up with a perfect balance between beauty and power. I did say Tonight was a good song, didn't I? |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 19/02/2011 : 20:28:31
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quote:
Originally posted by anthony
Well if Bob says he has had a great response to Abigail Washburn's session, I feel sure you can take his word for it Andy, even if you don't agree. Perhaps everybody looked at my appreciative comments and felt I had put it so perfectly that they had nothing to add?
NO I'm not disputing Bob's word at all. There must be more to the "incredible response" than just your post, the same applies to other comments about other artists like that on Saturday and Sunday shows. Maybe folks use Bob's BBC contact page.
Sugarland are a New Entry at #1 on the UK Country Album charts! Congrats to them 
http://www.theofficialcharts.com/country-charts
It's probably due to the Radio 2 and commercial playlistings + Graham Norton + Bob.
The second place and others is probably down to Bob.
Two weeks ago The Incredible Machine had sold 836,112 copies in America. I have never been able to find any stats for the UK Charts. Do they exist ? - I like transpency in 2011, not hype. |
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gerry
Frequently Whispers
468 Posts |
Posted - 19/02/2011 : 22:49:31
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Andy, there was a considerable reaction to the Abigail Washburn session via Twitter....in case you didn't know Bob tweets a fair bit.
I saw Sugarland on Graham Norton and was massively unimpressed. Cutesey and disposable Nashville pap of the worst kind....and nothing more. The two front persons were the weak link (the rest of the band weren't bad....the young lady playing bass in my opinion had a far better voice)
As a result I couldn't face the prospect of listening on Thursday and switched off when the session began.
Give me Abigail Washburn any day of the week....music of great integrity and substance by a talented, thoughtful and articulate lady. |
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gerry
Frequently Whispers
468 Posts |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 20/02/2011 : 11:59:32
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quote:
Originally posted by gerry
Andy, there was a considerable reaction to the Abigail Washburn session via Twitter....in case you didn't know Bob tweets a fair bit....I saw Sugarland on Graham Norton and was massively unimpressed. Cutesey and disposable Nashville pap of the worst kind....and nothing more. Give me Abigail Washburn any day of the week....music of great integrity and substance by a talented, thoughtful and articulate lady.
Hi Gerry , Thanks for pointing that out. Yes heard Bob mention Tweeter on his shows, I'm not a follower. Give it a few years like Myspace and others and I'm sure it will loose its novelty factor. Very good news that Abigail drew an excellent response on there.
Maybe a thread should be started "Tweet Of The Week"
I found the page
Good tweets for Sugarland following the session
"Ace show last night! The Sugarland session was flippin' fantastic!"
"Wow Bob. Sugarland session absolutely incredible. One of the best ...EVER "Wow.
Bob - "Fantastic reaction to the Sugarland session tonight. I'm so glad so many people enjoyed it"
Gerry, The session was much better than the Graham Norton show.'Stuck Like Glue' has infectious hook lines and the BBC Radio2 Playlist Committee, Smooth Radio, Magic FM and others couldn't get it out of their heads for them all to playlist them. Also 2 weeks ago they were Album Of The Week on Radio 2.
'Stuck Like Glue' is currently #2 iTunes Top 10 UK country song chart.
Richard Madeley sitting in for Chris Evans on 'Stuck Like Glue' "That is such a feel-good record isn't, I love the little bit of rapping in the middle, fantastic "
Gerry, The song really is marmite. The big question for me is just what will the CMA voting body think about them when its time to put a cross in the box. Just how embracing will they be this year. Country radio have so far supported 2 singles from The Incredible Machine album.
At the CMA's Jennifer Nettles said" Thank you to country radio, which continues to grow with us ".
Will these comments be an indication:
Universal Music Group (UMG) Nashville chairman/CEO Luke Lewis says. "That's what Jennifer and Kristian keep doing. They're musically adventurous, and thankfully they haven't made the same album twice."
In my point 4) Above I'm not objecting to Abigail being played on all 3 of Bob's shows just a frustration that when a British artist comes out with something credible that's really good it gets overlooked.
Another name I would throw in the "Not played on Radio 2 hat" is Belfast singer-songwriter Eilidh Patterson. Beth Nielson Chapman has described Eilidh voice as "velvet and air, the richness of her sound and her songs is something beautiful to behold and she is definitely an artist to watch!". Probably the reason why Beth asked Eilidh to support her and be a part of her band in 2010.
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jela
Frequently Whispers
792 Posts |
Posted - 24/02/2011 : 18:05:54
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| Really looking forward to tonight's show having just seen the playlist - some great tracks coming up. |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 25/02/2011 : 19:23:15
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I went for the iPlayer after consulting the playlist to skip over a lot of tuneless voices - Gurf,Hayes,Sam. Malcolm and Lucinda.
POCO - 'Call It Love' needs to be played as loud as you can , what a track ! For a few years my fav band thro' the 70's . Was hoping with Whistle Anniversary they would be shown on TV rather than Radio 2 highlights ?
Secret Sisters - Not really being played on country radio in America but what a reaction over here . Their new album has debuted at No. 1 on iTunes U.K. country chart. http://www.apple.com/euro/itunes/charts/top10countryalbums.html
Its only 29 mins long from start - finish!
Amazing how they are taking off so much over here - Why is that do you think ? They were on BBC Breakfast Tues 22 Feb. Bill Turnbull introduced their live song as a Hank Wilson one ! Well it did begin with a "W" but it could of been worse regarding the forename.
It doesn't seem quite right The Secret Sisters being digitally downloaded ? Hardly authentic is it, shouldn't people be buying them on vinyl ? !
Not sure if wartime polka-dot tea dresses will be the new fashion this summer in the UK. Should fans be authentic and throw away their mobile phones too! Will men folk be carrying their Thank you Mr Churchhill Peter Frampton discs too ?
Great this bit in Guardian review- "Much is made of Laura and Lydia Rogers's "purity" and "absolute honesty" in contrast to what the band's own website calls the "fake-it-as-you-go MO of the contemporary hyper-shuffled music industry". That, however, rather neglects to explain how dressing up a pair of twentysomething girls up as if it's VE Day and getting them to sing ancient Bill Monroe songs is any less contrived than Lady Gaga emerging from a giant plastic egg with a lobster on her head ".
Keith Urban - nice new track Bob, bit early to be thinking about Summer though.
Eve Selis - Hope the Sound & Vision UK Cancer event went well which Eve took part in.
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jela
Frequently Whispers
792 Posts |
Posted - 25/02/2011 : 20:18:07
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| Just as well Andy that we don't all like the same music - the world would be a boring place if we did. |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 26/02/2011 : 12:44:15
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Absolutely Jela , It would be nice to see but one British artist in the mix with just Aussie Keith Urban preventing a complete American stranglehold this week.
Kimmie Rhodes - Bob mentioned that he passed her new CD onto Donavan at the BBC Folk Awards with her nice cover of 'Catch The Wind'. The best version I've ever heard of the song is by Australian recording artist Marcia Howard on her CD BURNING IN THE RAIN (2004). Fantastic to see her perform it live drawing in other acts who supported her on the night. Marcia another Radio 2 overlooked artist unless you count her back up vox on Mary Black's albums.
http://www.marciahoward.com.au/music/index.html
Sugarland - Enjoying the new album. Jennifer Nettles is seriously dating Kenny Chesney's guitar player so did she secretly get married last weekend as there was a Sugarland wedding Saturday in Franklin, Tennessee. Turns out it was for their bass player, Annie Clements who married their guitar player, Thad Beaty. Both Annie and Thad were the Sugarland session players on Bob's show. Must have been quite a bit of love in the Radio 2 air! Can you confirm/tweet Bob
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remedyman
Occasionally Whispers
143 Posts |
Posted - 26/02/2011 : 13:24:30
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What no mention Of Robyn Ludwick Andy, Out Of These Blues is an excellent album, prefer her to Lucinda these days.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88pYNmRmlI8
Poco is was and always will be one of my favourite bands, looking forward immensely to their new album. |
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Isobelj
Frequently Whispers
749 Posts |
Posted - 07/03/2011 : 23:38:11
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I loved the Sugarland session, wonderful music is fantastic and certainly sounds 'country' I really enjoyed hearing the views on recording too, could completely understand the point about wanting to go in and record with band. I'm going to have to listen to this album that is causing controversy for being too pop; in times when musicians are having difficulties, like everyone else, it may be they just think they need to appeal to a wider audience. But the band has a fantastic authentic 'country' sound and wonderful vocals.
Isobel |
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Isobelj
Frequently Whispers
749 Posts |
Posted - 10/03/2011 : 20:04:51
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Great sure. The Buddy Miller 'Cattle Song' seems to start with almost oriental delicate musical sounds, then slight Hawaiian notes, before the vocal starts. Fascinating sound, I really liek that. Still don't understand why Sugarland are said by some not to sound 'country', that was a great trick and Jennifer Nettles has an amazing voice.
Realy enjoyed the Secret Sisters, and great news to hear they are going to play with Loretta Lynn!
Fantastic show (again).
Isobel |
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bobharris
The Whisperer
319 Posts |
Posted - 10/03/2011 : 21:15:48
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I think you're right Isobel. Jennifer has an amazing voice. Glad you enjoyed the Secret Sisters. They've been swept away by events in a most exciting way. They are the real thing. T Bone Burnett knows what he's talking about.
Bob. |
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Isobelj
Frequently Whispers
749 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2011 : 12:21:05
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Thank you Bob.
The Secret Sisters seem as if they are going to 'take off' popularity wise, which sounds well deserved. They seemed so likeable too, when talking.
Isobel |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 12/03/2011 : 12:18:52
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quote:
Originally posted by Isobelj
Thank you Bob.
The Secret Sisters seem as if they are going to 'take off' popularity wise, which sounds well deserved. They seemed so likeable too, when talking.
Isobel
The Secret Sisters - Absolutely everyone is playing them in the UK on the country programmes, especially 'Tennessee Me'. Still no sign of them on acetate or vinyl in the UK but if you like you sacharrine in kilo bits you can listen to their mere 28 minutes on SPOTIFY. Will the sisters despite no country radio airplay so far in America give Sugarland a run for their money at the CMA's for Vocal Duo
Both at complete opposite ends of the country spectrum from spillover to a retro country anthropological find. Ten years ago there was a big surprise with T Bone Burnetts produced Oh Brother Where Art Thou winning Album Of The Year despite little airplay in America.
I see that along with Taylor Swift's 'Story Of Us' the rumours are true that Sugarlands next single release is 'Tonight' and they are on the Radio 2 playlist ? Well done to the committee ! Hope to hear 'Tonight' or the title track 'The Incredible Macine' on Bob Harris Country.
Abigail Washburn - Have her fans purchased magazine Country Music People she had a big feature. Her album City Of Refuge is also on SPOTIFY for those that like their music with the DJ edited out.
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 12/03/2011 : 14:42:15
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quote:
Originally posted by Isobelj
Great sure. The Buddy Miller 'Cattle Song' seems to start with almost oriental delicate musical sounds, then slight Hawaiian notes, before the vocal starts. Fascinating sound.
" The album is dominated by darker and more complicated emotions, as on "Meds," which effectively casts Lee Ann Womack as a patient in a mental institution. Frankly, traditional-minded listeners will wonder if the whole crew shouldn't be committed, as this quirky affair?depending on your perspective - is either brilliant or crazy. ( Quote 3 STAR Review Country Music Weekly)
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johng
Frequently Whispers
290 Posts |
Posted - 13/03/2011 : 13:33:16
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I bought The Secret Sisters in HMV in Windsor on Thursday. It is all over their racks and that's in a small store!!!
I'm loving the new Buddy Miller a real roots country record that could have come out 40/50 years ago such si the feel. If you like traditional country music this is one for you |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 13/03/2011 : 13:55:44
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The Secret Sisters were #29 on the UK Album chart now #65 , a massive drop in a week but they must have got a lot of pre-orders and buyers for week 1.
http://www.theofficialcharts.com/albums-chart/
The UK Country Album chart I find very odd. Why are they not showing on that. Taylor Swift's Speak Now has also never appeared on the country chart when on iTunes her music has a country tag. On iTunes Taylor is # 1 and The Secret Sisters #2
http://www.apple.com/euro/itunes/charts/top10countryalbums.html
I notice that Eve Selis and Marc have become radio pluggers , securing a play for unsigned Berkley Hart on the Country Show. |
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The Lew
Frequently Whispers
825 Posts |
Posted - 13/03/2011 : 15:11:00
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| The last time I looked or was concerned about the charts, Atomic Rooster - Devils Answer had peaked at no.4 |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 19/03/2011 : 13:11:31
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I bet Thursdays show went down a treat with Country fans around the UK with much more mainstream and less Americana thanks to Alex Lexter.
Good to hear Alex personal favs over the years. The title cut Paper Airplane from the new AKUS sounds great. Alison Krauss from Sunday is in the UK for a week on promotional media duties. Worth looking out for her on TV as well as with Bob Harris.
Alex Lester is the only Radio 2 presenter I've heard play Reba McEntire's Moving Oleta over the years on his overnight show. Alex certainly likes his country music has comes back from trips to America armed with the latest CD's. He was playing the likes of Taylor Swift about 18 months before anyone else on Radio 2 or BBC Local country. He plays Shania, Brad Paisley, REBA, LeAnn Rimes, Lee Ann Womack, Nanci Griffith and Gretchen Peters in his eclectic overnight mixes and gave the UK's Lucie Diamond her first national spin. Great job Alex!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00z1z0l |
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phil
Frequently Whispers
613 Posts |
Posted - 19/03/2011 : 21:14:24
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quote:
Originally posted by The Lew
The last time I looked or was concerned about the charts, Atomic Rooster - Devils Answer had peaked at no.4
Blimey The Lew, that was one of the first things I heard on Dial a Disc...memories |
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kempe
Frequently Whispers
499 Posts |
Posted - 21/03/2011 : 18:42:59
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i must agree re the charts ! not sure where i would find them ! if i was interested which i am not.
i find music & films the blockbusters ! i tend to give a very big bert,love the finding out by word of mouth.
ie, perry keyes ! cheers again phil.
cheers paul. |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 30/03/2011 : 19:50:20
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Thank goodness kd lang and Rosanne Cash came to the rescue vocally on Thursdays show.
Matraca Berg - Gretchen Peters has described her new CD as "a beauty"
Bob said "Its just lovely...How about that for a title how about that for a song" regarding the track 'Your Husband's Treating On Us'
For me Matraca has provided 3 wonderful lost in the ozone albums but hearing this song it was hardly very uplifting and somewhat drawly , perhaps intentionally so. Similarly with the new Emmylou track the other week hoping there are much better tracks than the one heard by Matraca.
With Alison Krauss over here on promotion and with much attention on the new Union Station single and album I sincerely hope that Sierra Hull new album DAYBREAK is NOT overlooked (Digitally available to radio ). One listen through and for me serious contender for album of year. This is a real quality album, tremendous tracks - What a talent she is. Ron Block and now Barry Bales have served as co-producers for her and Sierra wrote seven of the twelve tracks showing she needs no Robert Lee Castleman to provide the songwriting magic. An album with many highlights , the title track is simply wonderful.
With just one solitary spin on Bob Harris this album should provide many more - Hopefully! |
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Isobelj
Frequently Whispers
749 Posts |
Posted - 14/04/2011 : 19:58:43
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Great Carrie Elkin session, I love her album. 'Edge of the World' has a wonderful meloday, it's a fantastic CD generally.
Good to hear those Heathens too! I really like this Gordy Quist song, 'What's this World'. Strikes a chord with me, no pun intended.
Band of Heathens of course due in UK end of May, Europe all through May.
Isobel
also hugely entertaining session with Alison Krauss last week. |
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anthony
Occasionally Whispers
119 Posts |
Posted - 15/04/2011 : 20:11:48
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I thought I spotted a rare bit of politics entering into the show this week. Normally politics is never mentioned, even though it's such an overarching factor in the genre that banned the Dixie Chicks, but there was Bob referring enthusiastically to the liberal vibe of Austin being in such stark contrast to the rest of Red raw Christian right Texas. Wow! Putting your head above the parapet a bit there Bob. But then I remembered the first part of the programme showcasing the awards from the Academy of Country Music, which sounds pretty much like a musical arm of the National Rifle Association, and descending into a track from Lady Antebellum which, without wishing to offend anybody, was about as close to trash music as I've ever heard Bob get. So political balance beautifully achieved overall, what skill the man has.
I agree about the Alison Krauss session the previous week. Pure beauty, as ever, what a lady. |
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The Lew
Frequently Whispers
825 Posts |
Posted - 15/04/2011 : 22:38:05
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| Yeh Anthony, I couldn't wait for that Lady Antebellum track to finish either. |
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Isobelj
Frequently Whispers
749 Posts |
Posted - 16/04/2011 : 12:32:17
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I don't know if that reference to Texas was politics so much Anthony as statement of truth, it's known to be like that and Austin known to be somewhat different in character. I know quite a few Texans, nothing to do with music and nowhere near Austin, and Texan values are something of a well-established fact in the U.S.!
Isobel |
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 16/04/2011 : 14:23:31
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quote:
Originally posted by anthony
But then I remembered the first part of the programme showcasing the awards from the Academy of Country Music, which sounds pretty much like a musical arm of the National Rifle Association, and descending into a track from Lady Antebellum which, without wishing to offend anybody, was about as close to trash music as I've ever heard Bob get.
quote:
Originally posted by The Lew
Yeh Anthony, I couldn't wait for that Lady Antebellum track to finish either.
I think the right balance was struck on Thursdays show with equal measures of mainstream country and Americana. Not everyone likes the latter or the former. Mainstream country doesn't often appear on Bob's Saturday and Sunday shows whereas Americana must definitely does. For example I'm sure will be hearing a lot more of Steve Earles new album 'I'll Never Get Out of this World Alive' across the shows.
Around 4 years ago I remember starting a forum post regarding the loss of the CMA Awards on TV on BBC2. I found myself fighting a lossing battle defending the awards and emerging artists Lady Antebellum came under fire when I flagged up their music and YouTube videos. I actually prefer their debut CD compared to the UK remix on NEED YOU NOW.
3 years on Bob Harris ,Al Booth and Radio 2 become Lady A fans. They have made history with their song 'Need You Now ' it has now surpassed Taylor Swifts 'Love Story' to become the most downloaded country song of all time.
They had the second best top selling album in the United States in 2010 with 3,089,000 copies sold of NEED YOU NOW trailing Eminem who sold 3,415,000 copies.
At the ACM's they won Album Of The Year and at The Grammys too in all genres. I think the album had 4 absolutely outstanding tracks compared to the project as a whole.They have been working on their next album and are about halfway to two-thirds of the way done with it.
After Bob played the Lady A track he said "Well personally I must say I think its great that there's a new generation of genuinely talented and enthusiastic young artists coming into mainstream country now very healthy situation " - I couldn't agree more with that statement.
Well Bob maybe you should take note of what Lady A's producer Paul Worley is saying about a new girl trio called Stealing Angels - "This is the career that I'm betting my future on, so if anyone wants to know how good they are, put my future on this one"
Stealing Angels EPK - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYN49vkJBDo
Their new single called Paper Heart is about to impart on country radio in America. It sounds good but having heard their track 'If I Was So Bad' I like this a lot, it's so instantly catchy, love the dobro in the mix. I predict this will be a smash hit if its their 2nd single release!
http://youtu.be/D-aSsBUa2do
Their Pedigree - The trio, Tayla Lynn, Jennifer Wayne and Caroline Cutbirth - is unique because of their families: Lynn is Loretta Lynn's granddaughter; Wayne is John Wayne's granddaughter; and Cutbirth is a descendent of Daniel Boone.
Also fans of Lady A may well like The Harters another emerging country music trio based in Arizona. 'If I Run' is their first official music video and single in 2011. Last summer they toured with Alan Jackson.
The Harters Video - http://youtu.be/vGCF_m3fUNw
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andycole
Frequently Whispers
699 Posts |
Posted - 16/04/2011 : 15:15:31
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quote:
Originally posted by Isobelj
Great Carrie Elkin session, I love her album. 'Edge of the World' has a wonderful meloday, it's a fantastic CD generally......
also hugely entertaining session with Alison Krauss last week.
1) Carrie Elkin - Compared to Patty Griffin, Iris DeMent, and Nanci Griffith by legendary Radio 2 DJ Bob Harris, singer/songwriter Carrie Elkin's unique sound incorporates alt-country, Americana, and traditional folk with heartfelt poetic lyrics (Source Allmusic).
Her new album seems to be promoted to UK country programmes with her tour despite her music tagged as FOLK not country. Yes , enjoyed the conversation but not won over enough vocally at this point to go out and buy Carrie's music.
Carrie Elkin - Call It My Garden - http://open.spotify.com/album/5WmyDZMMTsFuAw329Kgqln
2) Alison Krauss Interview.
So Bob said that away from this forum he has had "incredible reaction to the Alison interview on Twitter "
A lot of the patter was the same as Simon Mayos Drivetime one. Alison comes across as a very modest person and quite shyly. She is quietly spoken and sometimes rather mutters her words like in the convo about the title track. This happened live on stage too when I saw Union Station.
The title cut is terrific written by Robert Lee Castleman. What would they do without him with his other AKUS cuts including Let Me Touch You for Awhile, The Lucky One, Forget About It, Gravity, Restless, Crazy As Me, Doesn?t Have To Be This Way.
I notice their are only 2 AKUS writing credits on the album. An Alison co-write 'Lie Awake' with Angel Snow and a Barry Bales co-write with Chris Stapleton who I believe is a member of Steeldrivers - thats all.
Listening to the album on NPR I found the whole thing downbeat, hence represented by the album cover ?
Also think the original cuts of Dimming Of The Day and My Opening Farewell are better. Bonnie Raitts interpreatation of Dimming Of The Day for me ecplises Union Station. Compare:
http://youtu.be/nuiu9KYk1Fs
http://youtu.be/8RXJc199zFk
Alison admitting that they cut them for no other reason that they had not been done on a bluegrass album before.
It's a good album but lacks the Wow factor as its a bit too safe and one dimensional. I'm sure it will sell bucket loads but doesn't have the magic for me compared to tracks named above and ones like New Favorite, Stars, and Living Prayer.
'Dust Bowl Children' - Without knowing the full story the authenticity of this track seems questionable. Researching it was written by Peter Rowan in 1990 and was the album title cut. "We were all dust bowl children singing a dust bowl song " , "Once I had a dollar once I had a dream " sings Dan Tyminski. Hardly believable or with the sepia toned album cover and old-style work clothes are we lead to believe that the band are all dirt poor when they are all multi-millionaires.
In terms of music played in this special I thought the chance was lost to break-out Sierra Hulls new album DAYBREAK. Instead hearing the defunct Nickel Creek, heavily played Robert Plant and the very familiar 'When You Say Nothing At All'. Also pointing out there is another connection with Union Stations Barry Bale producing Sierra's album also on Rounder Records. It has peaked at # 5 on Billboard Bluegrass chart. Sierra has composed seven of the 12 songs - such a talent at 19.
Maybe we will hear her on the country show very soon. It's not just Alison & Union Station who are really delivering the goods so far in 2011 we have The Wailin Jennys and The Roys too. Bring on the Bluegrass Bob !
Alison Krauss told The Telegraph in a recent interview: "Sierra is so cute and talented. She's a wonderful musician and a very funny person." and Dolly Parton is quoted "I can't say enough about Sierra Hull - Sierra is truly a beautiful and talented gift to this world, so special and unique. Daybreak is an awakening "
Alison Krauss and Union Station Offer Deluxe Edition of Paper Airplane - Exclusively at Target retail stores in The States.
Maverick Magazine (to which I'm no longer subscribed ) have gone with a sepia look AKUS cover on their May edition
http://www.exacteditions.com/exact/browse/533/716/8617/3/1/0/
They met Alison at a London hotel. Their blurb says "This interview really showcases Alison Krauss' long-term dedication to crafting honest music and doesn't rule out another album with Robert Plant "
As I said where are the writing credits on Paper Airplane and wasn't the Raising Sand project all interpretations apart from Please Read The Letter which is a Robert co-write. By crafting Maverick can't mean writing skills ? |
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BOB HARRIS Country Shows
