Goodbye to Austin's beloved Joe Gracey

Goodbye to Austin’s beloved Joe Gracey

Fort Worth native Joe Gracey was known to many as just ‘Gracey.’ Somehow this  always seemed to me to sum him up.  Having lost his voice to oral cancer back in 1977, there was something about him that I can only describe as a quiet grace.  He made you feel good just by smiling at you.

Since first meeting Gracey when he was playing in his wife, Kimmie Rhodes’ band, I have come to learn a lot about the hidden talents of this man; a man who never once appeared boastful about his achievements.

Gracey was, and indeed still is, considered a legend in the Austin Music Scene; he was first heard as a disk jockey on Austin Radio in the 1970s, where he was noted for his mixing of country music with rock.  Following this, he worked on other radio, including Koke FM.  In fact, I have been told, his radio catch phrase was  "Another day in paradise." That, to many, is how he seemed to view life.

His time as a rock critic for  the Austin American-Statesman during the early days of  the ‘Outlaws,’  gave him the opportunity to draw attention to such talents as Willie Nelson, to whom Gracey has been known to refer as the Bob Dylan of country music. Perhaps it is no coincidence, then that he and his wife have become good friends with Nelson over the years, and Gracey has recorded several of his albums, including a duets CD with Rhodes.

He started a music recording studio, Electric Graceyland, which hosted some big names, including Stevie Ray Vaughan; this was just the beginning of his involvement in music recording.  He played a significant role in the creation of  Austin City Limits, which in turn played a significant role in making Austin "the live music capitol of the world." Gracey was the original talent coordinator for the series, a role which allowed him to introduce the world to such greats as Townes van Zandt and Asleep at the Wheel.Longtime friend Dan O’Shea said."All of the gifts that he brought and shared to Austin to make Austin what it is are things that I and others and our broader community will carry with us for the rest of our lives,"

He met Kimmie Rhodes when she was recording at the studio and they married in 1979. The couple have one daughter, Jole Morgan Goodnight Gracey and Gracey has two stepsons, Gabriel (Gabe) and Jeremie Rhodes.

 Gracey continued to play bass in Kimmie's band and to record. One of his last projects is the Ray Price/Willie Nelson CD Run That By Me One More Time.  He continued to write – one of my unequivocal favourites is Contrabandistas, which not only shows his songwriting capability, but also his sense of fun.

He had a blog  on which he write about life, music, food, often very candidly, always with his unique sense of humour.  Indeed, when his new diagnosis came through in January, he simply stated  "But as I have said before, you do what you must do to survive."  It can be found at  http://graceyland.blogspot.com/ He was also a frequent contributor to Saveur magazine.

In recent years the couple had been doing the renovations on a stable in the South of France.  For both Kimmie and Gracey, it became their pride and joy. I recall skyping with Kimmie one night as she showed me around the house via webcam, and as she told me about each nook and cranny, I could see Gracey beaming with pride in the background as I told them how beautiful I thought it looked.  It really does. In late September, the pair took a break from his chemotherapy and radiation treatments to spend time at this house, visiting with family and friends and watching the fall wine harvest. Tests showed his cancer had reduced. .In an email, Kimmie told us "He drove again for the first time in a year," "He bought a grill and made fajitas for friends who came to visit from Spain. He had a good time. He won."

Then he fell ill again and the couple flew back to Houston and the hospital where Gracey passed away, aged 61.  Despite this, I feel that Gracey would want us to share his view that he won – he got to go back to the house he loved and be happy, one last time.

There has been a large memorial service in a theatre in Austin and I’m sure all of us who knew him have taken time to remember him in some way.

So much could be said about Gracey but one thing is for sure; he will be missed for a long time to come.  When Kimmie next plays here I know I’ll be looking at the space on the stage that will always be his, confident that he is smiling that smile as we sing along to Contrabandistas.  As Kimmie sings in one of her songs, Heaven feels the touch of each and every one of us...

Several years ago, Kimmie recorded a song called Rich from the Journey. As soon as I heard that Gracey had passed, that song came into my head. Why?  I am certain that he left this world richer from his journey and all of us lucky enough to have met him are richer for that experience. 

Godspeed, Joe Gracey.

blogspot.graceyland.com
www.kimmierhodes.com
www.fatea-magazine.co.uk

Wine, Women and Song - The Sage, 2011

Wine Women and Song

The Sage, Gateshead, June 12^th 2011

For the uninitiated, Wine, Women and Song is the name given to the collaboration between three of the most talented singer songwriters you will ever encounter; Matraca Berg, Suzy Bogguss and of course, Gretchen Peters.  Rumour has it that their name, ‘Wine, Women and Song’ stems from Luther.  This was their third visit to The Sage, Gateshead and Hall 2 was a sell out for the occasion; a joy to see.

Once again, Gretchen sat in the centre, with her esteemed “songwriting sisters” either side of her, each with easy access to that important part of the evening; the wine.  The evening began with as much humour as it ended, as Suzy came on stage then suddenly ran off again, maiing guitar actions to indicate she had forgotten hers.  Suzy cracked jokes while the others tuned and all three teased each other mercilessly whilst bantering with the rest of us.  Then there was the story of the DVD recording where they ended up in a tornado shelter in Leiper’s Fork, Tenneesee!  Matraca later had to leave for new batteries and the most hilarious moment  of the night came courtesy, once again, of Suzy, when her custom made brush drum failed to make the correct sound.  Clearly quite mystified, she had it this way and that, plugged and unplugged, until she stopped and a strange sound prompted the question, ‘Wait, did my boob just do that?!’  By this point the audience were hysterical, Gretchen and Matraca were crying with laughter  and Suzy was then left trying to sort it out through her tears of laughter.  The point of me sharing that story?  To demonstrate how totally at ease these three are, with each other and their audience.  They would far rather things go a little awry and us all have a good giggle together, than everything seem perfectly rehearsed and polished.  That is part of the magic they have created together.

Starting with Gretchen, they took turns to perform songs from their extensive catalogues; old favourites and new material.  Gretchen started with Sunday Morning (Up and Down my Street), which seemed fitting since this is the first time we had seen her since her October 2010 wedding to partner and pianist Barry Walsh.  This was  the tip of the iceberg; the stunning Tom Russell song, Guadalupe,made even more stunning with the others’ vocals, On a Bus to St Cloud saw her play Barry’s part on the piano, leaving everyone in awe, and talking about how she has played in the North east since those forty people went to see her at the Ropery in 1996, how special this part of the world is to her, she treated us to a stunning song, Five Minutes, from her upcoming album.  Just when you think Ms Peters can’t get any better, she does!  This was followed by The Secret of Life and Waiting for The Light to Turn Green,  a co-write with Suzy.  She then, appropriately, chose To Say Goodbye as her final solo song, again, completely transformed by the harmonies.

Suzy’s solo offerings also took us through old and new and as with Gretchen’s, they were made all the more powerful  as a result of the harmonies provided by the others. She began with the Lowell George classic, Heartache, moving on through  a fabulous version of the first song she and Matraca wrote together, Hey Cinderella  and a fabulous version of Shenandoah from her new CD of folk songs.   She then cpmpletely changed track to the classic Outbound Plane to up the tempo and allow Matraca to add the Mouth Organ.

Matraca started out with the tongue in cheek  Your husband’s cheating on us, then took us on a musical trip through the Dreaming Fields; her new CD, that is, with achingly beautiful performances of Oh Cumberland, about being homesick and the title song about the mother of a soldier away at war, inspired by family.  As she sang this song , her voice cracking with emotion, it occurred to me not only how lucky we are to actually have the chance to see this lady do what she does best, thanks to Gretchen and Suzy getting her on board, but also, how much she has grown in confidence since the first Wine Women and Song tour.   If I had Wings followed, a co write with Jessi  Alexander (who wrote Miley Cyrus’ hit  The Climb)  before Gretchen added mandolin  -  new for her – to Black Ribbons, a striking new song written by the three of them on their last writing retreat. 

The other thing which is lovely to watch is the expressions on their faces as they listen to each other sing,  and the smiles and silent feedback that pass between them.  They clearly think the world of each other, both as friends and fellow musicians. It is lovely to sense that connection, however, that when one is singing, the other two join us for three minutes, as music lovers, trying to find a way to bottle the moment.  Music really does bring people together in an incredible way.

The evening ended with two collaborative songs; an unusual choice, inspired by Suzy’s son Ben, was the Tom Waits ballad Hold On.  With each taking a verse and uniting for the chorus, they gave it a whole new lease of life.  I sincerely hope it will be recorded one day as it really suits their voices and their sound.  The trio let go of the reins one last time to deliver a stirring version of the Rolling Stones’ Wild Horses, one of the best on their Sewanee Sessions CD.

Gretchen had pre empted the sentiment well, as nobody in Hall 2 was ready to say goodbye after a magical night of music.  Much chatting and mingling and laughing took place at the CD table, after the show.  In the words of that Tom Waits song, we will just have to Hold On and maybe the trio will find themselves on an inbound plane sooner rather than later!  In the meanwhile, we have a DVD and new Suzy and Matraca CDs to keep us going, a new Gretchen CD which promises to be her best yet and a new Barry Walsh CD in the works.  The latter two will be back in March 2012 and Suzy may be returning before then. We can hope and after all, they all know they will receive a warm welcome anytime they come to play!

Steve Earle with The Dukes and Duchesses (Featuring Allison Moorer) - The Sage, Gateshead. October 2011

Steve Earle with the Dukes and Duchesses – Featuring Allison Moorer –

Hall 1 – The Sage, Gateshead

26^th October 2011-11-15

It seems a long time since Mr Earle graced the stage of our beloved Sage, but back he was and this time he brought with us his band – the Dukes and Duchesses; Will Rigby provided drums, Kelly Lewing from Nashville, Tennessee played bass, fiddler Eleanor Whitmore (who herself had a stunning voice), and Chris Masterson played a variety of guitars.  Steve himself played guitars; oh and did I mention that the piece de resistance was the inclusion of Steve’s singer songwriter wife Allison Moorer  in the band? She last played at The Sage as part of February’s Transatlantic Sessions.  I will admit that I had high hopes that she would open the show, but in many ways I guess it was a compliment to her that she didn’t. 

Instead, Steve and the band took straight to the stage, where they played two sets over the course of over two hours.  What immediately strikes you about Mr Earle is that he just doesn’t look how you imagine, yet from the outset his humour and candour are evident.  He says it like it is, no doubt about that, but is also very open when talking of his past problems with drugs, and what his son Justin has been through.  Neither did he hold back from exchanging smiles and a few sneaky kisses with wife Allison; an unlikely, but clearly very compatible couple.  As he talked about politics and the history of mining; he is one of several American singer songwriters to have a vested interest in the subject, he demonstrated how incredibly articulate he is, not to mention passionate, when speaking of a subject he believes in.  I think we could all learn a lot from him.  This was again evident when he spoke of his involvement in the New Orleans based HBO series (which has been shown in the UK, I have since learned) and of his dismay at what has, or rather hasn’t been done since Katrina hit the city.  I have to say, having recently fulfilled a dream in seeing New Orleans, I understand one hundred percent why he is so besotted with the city of jazz.  Apparently we both left a little of our souls there. 

During the course of the evening, Steve played us the new songs he has written for Treme, including one since he has been on tour here – This City and City of Immigrants.  We were treated to asome beautiful new ballads he sang with Allisoon Moorer; Days Aren’t Long Enough and Heaven or Hell and some other new songs; Waiting on The Sky, Every Part of Me being some of the ones that stood out, from his new CD, I’ll Never Get Out of This World Alive. Well loved songs were more than delivered from across his back catalogue; Comin’ Around, The Revolution Starts Now, Guitar Town, Taney Town, Galway Girl, Christmas in Washington, Hillbilly Highway and of course, Copperhead Road.

Throughout the set, Steve invited each member of the band to step forward and perform, allowing them all a chance to shine; in most cases, he played guitar for them, which was a nice twist.  Allison, of course, had the longest slot, performing a few of her songs, including a stunning version of Sam Cooke’s A Change is Gonna Come.  In fact, I enjoyed her version of this so much, I ceased to mind that she hadn’t sung any of her older songs, or Carrickfergus from Transatlantic sessions!

Speaking of which, it didn’t escape my attention that, whilst Steve and the band still rocked out during the course of the evening, he seemed just a bit mellower than last time.  There is certainly more of an acoustic, folk, blues sound creeping through; is this the influence of his wife who started out that way and again seems to have mellowed since Transatlantic Sessions, having had a rockier spell herself, or the experience of Treme, blurring his musical boundaries?  Whatever it is, I hope it continues.  I love watching Steve rock, but when he sings a ballad, the hairs on my neck stand to attention.

Suffice to say, it was a wonderful evening of music and Steve, Allison and the wonderful band all played a huge part in that.  Their dynamic is certainly powerful as well as productive.  There is something about Steve Earle that you cannot fail to love, although it is hard to put your finger on just what it is; you just warm to him instantly.  Maybe that is his charm.   The same charm that along with wonderful music left us wishing as soon as they left the stage that they’d hurry back.  With any luck the  Hillbilly Highway will lead him back to us via Copperhead Road and another night of music shared with these people will be Comin’ Around sooner rather than later!

Sam Baker - Live Theatre, Newcastle. 16.9.11

Sam Baker – Live Theatre, Newcastle

16^th September 2011

This was the first time I had been to a gig at The Live Theatre since its renovation and I was immediately impressed at how great a venue it now felt.

The opening act was an artist from Austin, Texas, about whom I had heard a little; Betty Soo, a good friend of Sam Baker’s from Austin, Texas.  She played with Doug Cox, from Canada, whom she met in Alaska. Such connections could only be made in the music world! 

Vocally, Betty Soo reminds me of someone, I just can’t quite place who it is; she has quite a soulful voice, and at times it takes on a blues sound.   During her  short set, she took us through some of her own songs, some she had recorded with Doug and some by friends, including Butch Hancock and Guy Clark, which proved she can interpret a song as well as she can write one. More than once Doug wowed with his guitar playing.  The standout song for me was ‘Never The Pretty Girl, which I could imagine her fellow Texan Kimmie Rhodes singing, and a song about being Crazy contained a line that was genius; You think I’m crazy but that depends, I don’t seem that crazy to me.

I for one was impressed with what I heard of Betty Soo and from talk around the Live Theatre, I don’t think I’ll be alone in looking up more of her material.

Sam Baker took to the Stage, immediately saying how great it was to be back.  The thing with Sam Baker?  You know without question that he means it.  Accompanied by a wonderful musician  named Chip Dolan, he immediately showed us he was indeed back.  Taking us through a varied set, he played  such songs as Jacob’s Ladder and Slots before taking us to ‘the religious part.’  Telling us a fascinating story (which I won’t repeat as he tells it much better than I ever could!) he segued into Mnemonite, the preceeding story making the song mean something totally different.  His lyrics are so clever, especially when you consider this was a story he had been told.  Boxes followed and I have to say I love his articulation of the word ‘something.’

He then stated he was going to play us some new material, which of course is always exciting. He told us the first one was a love song, quipping, ‘I don’t do many of those, though maybe you can find a thread in all of my songs...’ This then sparked one of the infamous Sam Baker rambles where he went off tangent talking about the meaning of love in songs and left everyone laughing.  When Sam gets to talking and telling stories, he could clearly go all night and I think most of us present would happily listen all night. As he talks his infectious smile lights up the room and the audience is left in no doubt that this is a man who loves what he is doing.   A few more new songs followed, during which we also got to see what an amazing pianist Chip Dolan really is; he reminded me very much of Barry Walsh and believe me, I can give no higher compliment than that!

Bringing his tour manager, Rebecca Kemp on stage, he had her sing Iron with him; wow, I’ve known Rebecca a good while now and had NO idea she could sing.  Obviously Sam spotted something he needed us all to see; we were very impressed.

Snow followed, with one of my favourite Sam lyrics, Talk about Forgiveness, help me understand. Looking back at his life experience, we could all do well to carry that line with us; the world would be a better place.  As the song ended, Sam himself was clearly caught up in the beauty of the piano ending Chip had created.  Again, it brought to mind Barry Walsh and his piano part in Gretchen Peters’ On a Bus to St Cloud; exquisite.

Joking that if he stopped talking and hurried it up we might get to see his friend Betty Soo again, more favourites followed in the form of Odessa, Juarez, Pretty World, and his fantastic cover of the great Mickey Newbury song, Just dropped in (to see what condition my condition was in)

Inviting Betty Soo back up on stage with Doug Cox, and immediately demonstrating the great rapport between them, he commented how lovely it is to bump into good friends when you’re on the road.  It made me smile to think that to him, Newcastle, England, can feel as much a part of ‘the road’ as somewhere in America.

Some deliberation followed as Sam wanted to play a song they hadn’t rehearsed...there was a little reluctance but he got his way, in his typical ‘We’re among friends here’ attitude. Treating us to Waves and a stunning version of both Cotton, with Betty Soo taking on the Hallelujahs, and Orphan, with her adding the ‘sweet chariot’ parts, their harmony was quite remarkable.  The evening ended all too soon with an intriguing choice; Long Black Veil, which the audience found themselves singing along with... another of those magical moments where everyone in the room was connected by music.

The thing with a Sam Baker gig is you actually don’t want it to end.  He makes you feel you have been in the company of a friend  and you want to listen to more  his songs and stories and share a little bit more of his world, his charm and his magic.  It is definitely safe to say that whilst in the presence of Sam Baker, you get a glimpse into a more Pretty World and leaves you counting down the days until he comes to hang out with us again.

Barry Walsh - Paradiso

Paradiso – Barry Walsh

Tracks: 12

Barry Walsh has been busy recently producing albums for Gretchen Peters and Tom Russell, but is best known as  a professional musician for more than three decades; in this time he has performed with Roy Orbison, Jimmy Webb and Al Green, and he's written songs that were recorded by Waylon Jennings, Jessi Colter and the Amazing Rhythm Aces.  He has played keyboards for years for The Box Tops and all of this is in addition to touring extensively with singer-songwriter Gretchen Peters (over twelve times since 2001)  During this time he has mesemerised UK audiences with his piano playing, both accompanying Gretchen (his introduction to A Bus to St Cloud, is enough to make a grown man cry) and during his now highly anticpated solo piece during her shows.  I’m not sure he’d now be able to leave The Sage, Gateshead, without playing Leaving Newcastle, for us, from his first CD, The Crossing.

Barry’s second CD, Paradiso, has been a long time coming, but mark my words, it is worth the wait!  Produced by esteemed Producer-guitarist Doug Lancio (Patty Griffin, John Hiatt, Gretchen Peters, among others) the album comprises twelve pieces of music, all composed by Walsh. Lancio adds his guitar prowess to There’s Been an Incident, which is further enhanced by a stunning choral arrangement by Gretchen Peters. Rob Ickes of Blue Highway adds some dobro to Marathon Motor Works and, in a total twist, Peters who plays piano while Walsh adds guitar on a track theyco-wrote, called  Seven Weeks.  This will be less of a surprise to fans of Gretchen, who have been seeing her play guitar at shows for a while now!  Walsh’s son Brennan co-wrote and accompanies his Dad on guitar, for Youth and Age; perhaps two generations playing this piece together adds a certain poignancy. Finally, esteemed musician Dave Henry adds his cello to several of the pieces on the CD.

North Platte debuted on the Gretchen Peters/ Tom Russell collaboration; One to the Heart, One to The Head, where it appeared in two parts, and I am happy to see it also made it’s way onto this collection.  It is such an atmospheric piece that it takes you away in your mind, to the place it ‘describes.’ Again demonstrating his admiration for French composer Eric Satie, we see one of his compositions, Son Binocle, covered to great effect here. The music conveys the humour in the piece, without any need for words.  This then reappears to close the CD...there is a reason...

I admitted that before hearing Barry’s first CD I had always struggled to ‘get’ music without lyrics.  The Crossing changed that for me...so much so that I spent a week in New Orleans and fell in love with the jazz music that surrounded me there.  I was able to relate to it, to catch the emotion in the music and infer its meaning and the story it was telling me, without any need for words.  It gave me a new appreciation of music I’d never had previously.  Paradiso, in one listen, took me on a musical journey, to somewhere I had never been before, but I know that every time I put the CD in the player, I will go back. A place where music tells its own stories and stirs your emotions.  That is Barry Walsh’s talent and that talent is the reason why every one should own Paradiso.  While you’re at it, pick up The Crossing, if you don’t already own a copy.

Madison Violet - The Good in Goodbye

The Good in Goodbye – Madison Violet

Tracks:11

This is Canadian duo Madison Violet’s fourth CD; a follow up to 2009’s No Fool For Trying  and I have to confess I have been looking forward to this one for a long time.  Madison Violet are Brenley MacEachern and Lisa MacIsaac and they will be known to many Americana fans due to several tours here in the UK over the past few years.

They have said, since the release of this album, that it is an album born from their growth, both together and apart, The Good in Goodbye is an open diary of their personal and professional experiences together as friends and musicians, two very unique relationships that affect each other in profound ways.  The result is an articulate, touching and very thoughtful collection of songs, which again illustrate their vocal skills individually and together; when their harmonies invariably make me think of those great harmonies of The Judds.  Can there be a better compliment?

Stand out tracks include the bluegrass infused Cindy Cindy, Home, Come as You Are, Emily, and the heartbreakingly beautiful Christy Ellen Frances.  The story it tells is exquisite but the song needs to tell you, not me.

Suffice it to say that I think Madison Violet have done it again; this is a great collection of music with their own unique sound.  They are playing in the UK and Europe in January 2012; I will be making sure I have tickets to hear them sing these songs live and suggest you do the same.

Steve Earle - I'll Never Get out of This World Alive

I’ll Never Get out of this world Alive – Steve Earle

Tracks: 11

This CD is Steve Earle’s new and highly anticipated follow up to Townes (which had very mixed reviews) The eleven track CD was produced by legendary T Bone Burnett and is Earle s first collection of original material since his 2007 Grammy Award winning album, Washington Square Serenade.

I have to admit to having loved Copperhead Road since the days of CMT Europe and Rebel Country, but having never quite made up my mind what I thought of Steve Earle’s music, generally, finding it just a little too rock oriented.  That changed after the twice I have see Mr Earle play live and discovering what an amazing story he has to tell. Live, there is just something about him, his delivery and his music that you warm to instantly. Thus I was eagerly awaiting this collection and it did not disappoint.  From the lead track Waitin’ on the Sky,  this CD draws you in with powerful lyrics, great vocals, and stunning musicianship. The Gulf of Mexico is a stirring performance are is Every Part of Me and Meet me in the Alleyway.  For me, certainly, there are two stand out tracks; one is the stunning Heaven or Hell, a duet with his wife and singer songwriter Allison Moorer. The other is This City, the song Earle wrote for the HBO series Treme, with which he has been heavily involved. Having recently fulfilled a dream in seeing New Orleans, this song truly does capture the spirit of the city post Katrina.

Maybe Steve Earle is going back to his more country roots or maybe he is demonstrating the more mellow, Celtic influence of Allison Moorer’s involvement with Celtic Connections (I am sure Mr Earle won’t mind if I give mention to her stunning rendition of Carrickfergus, which in my view is as Transatlantic as it gets) Whatever it is, it works.  It shows a softer, more content, more mellow Steve Earle, reminiscent of such beautiful material as My Old Friend the Blues, which showed a long time ago it was in him to create these beautiful ballads. I for one am glad he has finally explored that further and hope we see and hear more of this side of Steve Earle.  Whether a long time fan, or new to This man’s music, this really is a CD that everyone needs to own..a great chapter in his journey along that Copperhead Road!

Betty Soo - Heat, Water, Skin

Betty Soo

Heat, Sin, Water, Skin

Tracks:10

Betty Soo is Korean- American, exactly 5 feet tall and comes from Austin, Texas.  This is her third CD and was actually released in 2009 but it has only now been picked up for UK release by Proper Records. Without a doubt her best release to date, it was produced by the legendary Gurf Morlix and features great musicianship from Elders on violin, Todd Wilson on keyboards and Mailman Dave on drums.  They combine forces with Betty  Soo’s exquisite vocal, to create a CD bursting with the flavours of folk, country and Americana. It is unusually hard to choose, but standout tracks for me would be Whispering My Name, about how love might feel and the stirring Who Knows, about a family fleeing a hurricane.

She clearly counts many esteemed artists in Austin as her friends; from Sam Baker to Butch Hancock, so they have obviously realised what I am hoping more will now this CD is released; that she is an artist with an incredible talent, who deserves Betty Soo –

Heat, Sin, Water, Skin

to go places.

I would also add, that having had the pleasure of seeing her open for Sam Baker recently, next time she tours, you need to see her play live!

Mary Chapin Carpenter – The Age of Miracles

Mary Chapin Carpenter – The Age of Miracles

Following 2008’s stunning Christmas release Come Darkness, Come Light, comes The Age of Miracles.  Quieter and more subdued than some of Chapin’s earlier work, but achingly beautiful, these songs quite simply speak to your soul with repeated listens; more in the ilk of her much loved Stones in the Road release.  In one word, exquisite.

The musical accompaniments are simple, in fitting with the style of the lyrically beautiful songs.  Some of the standout tracks include The Age of Miracles, a song filled with hope that our miracle will come along if we believe, Mrs Hemingway with its poignant story of the Hemingways’ life in Paris and possibly her best piece of writing to date, the stirring I Have A Need For Solitude, which speaks of her love of the quiet of her ranch back home and the moving 4 June 1989 which recalls the events of the Tiananmen Square protests from the perspective of a young soldier.  Then there is the one more upbeat song, Last Night I Put my Ring Back on, which allows Chapin’s more playful side to come through a little.

Quite simply, Mary Chapin Carpenter shines in this release, lyrically and vocally and whether a long time fan or new to her music, everyone should own this CD.  It shows her as the songwriter she really is; in my opinion of the calibre of Gretchen Peters, yet never quite recognised as such.  As CDs go, The Age of Miracles is about as close to perfection as it gets.

Cowboy Junkies – Demons – Nomad Series Part II

Cowboy Junkies – Demons – Nomad Series Part II

Part two of the much talked about Nomad series has arrived.  Demons  follows  Renmin Park and rumour has it there will be a total of four over the eighteen month period!

The first thing to be said is that I love the artwork for this CD.   The second is that there is just something about Cowboy Junkies that draws you in from the first lyrics of the first song on every CD. This CD is no exception. In something of a musical twist, this CD is atribute to their late friend, tour mate and musical collaborator Vic Chestnutt. Originally, it seems,  the plan was for the band to back Chestnutt on a new project,.  However, Following the death of the the Athens, GA songwriter on Christmas Day 2009, Timmins and the Junkies sketched out the plans for a special commemorative collection of Chestnutt songs and the seeds of the new album were planted.

The result is a beautiful, moving, and at times ethereal collection of music, which allows Cowboy Junkies to pay tribute to a man for whom they had the utmost respect, whilst making his music entirely their own.

I sincerely hope that at some point soon the Nomad Series will bring Cowboy Junkies back to the UK, after what has been far too long an absence.

Make The Light – Kate Rusby

Make The Light – Kate Rusby

Two years after Sweet Bells, the critically acclaimed Christmas release, Make the Light is Kate Rusby’s first CD comprised entirely of self penned songs.  Somewhat randomly it was Jennifer Saunders (whose TV series Jam and Jerusalem  Rusby has contributed songs to) who suggested she try doing an entirely self written album.  Time off whilst pregnant with her first child gave her the time to do it, resulting in Make the Light.

Long time collaborators are joined by husband Damien O'Kane, who contributes guitar, tenor guitar, tenor banjo and vocals to the album)  Songs such as The Mockingird, Only Hope,  Let Them Fly and Walk The Road, really showcase Rusby’s songwriting prowess and her beautiful lilting vocals, simultaneously. The arrangements work beautifully with the material and allow us to see a different side to Kate Rusby – a side I hope we get to see more of with future releases.

James Clark Jones - Dispatch From Purgatory

James Clark Jones - Dispatch From Purgatory

Tracks: 9

Self released – 2009

Self-released in 2009, I was new to this 9 track collection of songs from Toronto native James Clark Jones, despite it actually being his third release. The first thing to say is I love the album’s title and the artwork is exquisite. Throughout the album, James' guitar playing remains predominantly acoustic, with just a hint of blues. At times both his guitar work and vocals bring to mind Will Kimbrough, which can only be considered a good thing.  Well worth a listen for fans of the bluer side of Americana!

The Sage Gateshead - Christmas Playing the Building Tour

The Sage, Gateshead

Playing The Building Tour – Christmas special

‘Playing the Building’ is the name given to The Sage, Gateshead’s behind the scenes tour.  Having said practically since The Sage opened six years ago, that we would be interested in taking part in said tour, my parents and I finally got around to booking it for Sunday, December 19^th.

Having previously read the basic description of the tour, and it having never occurred to me to read the blurb for this particular tour, I was in for a surprise!

The initial surprise was when we were greeted by the tour guide and what appeared to be a security guard, playing a guitar, who appeared singing Christmas songs and encouraging those of us waiting to join in with such songs as Little Donkey, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and Santa Claus is Coming to Town. I simply thought it was a lovely touch, to include security and to add a Christmas twist as we waited.  I also feel I need to mention at this point what a lovely singing voice the guide, Jane Lindenberg, has!

As more people began to arrive, the security guard began drawing our attention to a poster on the wall, asking if anyone had seen any strange characters around the place as he was a Cliff Richard wannabe and  had been spotted all week trying to get onto the stage to sing.  Even then I didn’t click, thinking it was a joke and this strange character would run by or there would be a joke involving him later.

As leaflets were handed out containing song lyrics, I thought, ‘Oh great, a sing along and we’ll be taught some old fashioned Christmas songs during the tour, too!’ until I looked at the back and saw a cast list.

Before that really even had a chance to register, the tour guide and security guard introduced themselves and began to talk about The Sage – that it had opened 6 years ago almost to the day (Dec 17)  In the middle of this, out of the blue, the door of The Northern Rock Foundation Hall behind us burst open, amid smoke and there in front of us stood two ‘courtiers’ from King Charles’ time, singing There we go a Wassailing.

From this point it became quite apparent that we were not only on a tour of The Sage, but on a very special tour of The Sage, during which a pantomime of sorts would be played out in front of, and involving, all of us present.

The storyline was that Oliver Cromwell had banned Christmas so the two courtiers had travelled forward in time to ask for our help.  Our task was to create enough Christmas magic to save Christmas.

As we toured the building, through the education centre, dressing rooms and green room, more of the story unfolded. We even had a mock up Fenwick window, a Christmas elf, a tramp and Santa himself! In a twist to the story, it emerged that the Cliff wannabe had been spotted.  As the two stories merged we sang en masse as we walked around – heaven only knows what the other Sage Visitors thought at the sight  of an assortment of visitors, a member of Sage staff, two courtiers, an elf, Santa and a Cliff lookalike (dressed in a tshirt which read ‘We wish you a merry Cliffmass.’) singing Here we go a Wassailing, and I suspect not very tunefully at that!  The amazing thing was we had all gotten so caught up in it all, I don’t think we cared!

Each trip in the lift involved a song telling us some of the Sage’s story – a totally inspired way to deliver the facts.  Nobody was even phased  when at one point the lift contained a crew member with a set of drums; we were simply led down two flights of stairs, singing once more, as we passed everyone sat in the cafe looking rather confused as we all trooped by!  It was obvious in several places that the Sage’s acoustics are so remarkable, that even in the corridors and lift areas the sound is amazing. 

The conclusion of the story involved the courtiers persuading us that ‘Cliff’ should be allowed to sing on the stage if it meant so much to him.  Thus, we were led behind the scenes, up onto the stage of Hall 2, split into 4 groups and given a magical opportunity.  There we all sang a medieval Christmas song, in the round on that stage.  I literally had goosebumps, thinking that not only was I standing, but singing, on the very stage where so many of my favourite artists have performed.  Priceless and certainly something which will be forever ingrained in my memory.

We were led back to where we began, singing Last Christmas as we went, and handed bells with which we would create the final bit of magic to send the courtiers, with ‘Cliff,’ back in time.

I admit we probably didn’t get as much information about the Sage as in a typical tour, but there are plenty of those in a year.  I learned a lot I didn’t know, saw things I wouldn’t normally see, and had a truly magical Christmas experience.  I have no idea whose idea it was, but it was wonderful and in some ways doesn’t surprise me as The Sage always go a step beyond.

Perhaps all that is left for me to say is that I highly recommend this tour next year and a big thankyou to The Sage, the staff involved and those from the Community Music Trainees who made it happen. I, for one, will be back next year, with my singing voice intact and maybe some tinsel in my hair, especially for the occasion...

Introducing...Duke lang

Duke Lang

Canada native, Duke Lang, has some songs on his myspace (Doug Lang) that anyone can listen to.  However, I was lucky that he offered me the opportunity to hear the pre release copies of his two CDs – The Norway Sessions Volume I and II – Crooked and Troubador, which contain 14 and 12 tracks, respectively.

All of the songs are written by Duke himself and musical Contributors on Doug's band tracks include Laura Newbury, Leif Christian Ovesen, William Troiani, Magne Hellesjo, Mike Beck, Tone Stojka, Tore Blesterud, Anders Nesblom, Harald Vaernor and Jarl Edward.  He writes exquisite lyrics and has a gorgeous at times rough edged voice, which brings to mind the Texas singer songwriters I love, such as Tom Russell and Sam Baker.

At times country, at times folk, Duke tells stories, paints pictures and evokes people and places in true Americana style.   In all honesty it is hard to choose favourite tracks, but perhaps ones which really standout are Last Dirt Road on Earth, Suite for New Orleans, Border Town, Kid Alton and Saskatchewan  1939.  However, my undisputed favourite would have to be 61 North, which, quite simply, is an eloquent and  poetic musical journey which could have been penned by Tom Russell or Gretchen Peters – no question – I can give no higher compliment than that.

I sincerely hope that Duke Lang soon releases his CDs; they really will be a gift to the world and deserve to be highly acclaimed by press and music lovers alike.  I look forward to seeing his journey unfold, and hope it brings him to this side of the pond so I can hear his music live as well as on disc.  How about it Duke?

www.myspace.com/Dukelang

Emily Maguire - Start Over Again book review

Emily Maguire – Start Over Again Title: Start Over Again
Author: Emily Maguire
Publisher: Emily Maguire
Released: 2010
Pages: 230
ISBN-10: 0956680100
ISBN-13: 978-0956680105

Singer songwriter Emily Maguire’s musical journey, from the UK to Australia and back again,  has always felt a little like it could be a book, to me.  Recently she launched a book, but it isn’t the story I always imagined.  On World Mental Health Day, Emily admitted to Radio 2 listeners that for years she has lived with Bi-Polar disorder and finally wanted to lift the lid on her story, and, in the process, on the stigma of mental illness.

Named after one of her most poignant songs, which she has always described as  her ‘life story in three and a half minutes,’ Start Over Again contains diary entries, pieces of writing and song lyrics accumulated from her teens to the present, all providing us with a unique inside into her mind in all its forms. It came about at the suggestion of her partner in music and life, Christian Dunham, to put together some of her diary entries and such and with his encouragement, it eventually took the form of a book.

If it sounds like heavy reading, it isn’t.  Admittedly it took me a little while to read, more because it felt like that kind of book that had to be read over a period of time, in order for the words and story to truly resonate and tell their story – Emily’s story – and a very powerful one at that.  Emily begins the book with a summary of her story, thus setting the scene for and giving context to the entries which follow, written in good times and bad, in and out of manic episodes.  Whether you have experienced mental health issues yourself, know someone who has, or have no experience whatsoever, you cannot help but be both moved and educated by Emily’s story.

What cannot help but strike you is the incredible honesty with which Emily bares her soul – it is like hearing a friend share their story over coffee.  In the process she gives added meaning to so many of her songs, once the listener understands the place from which they were written, something Emily admits she would not do if she did not have Bi-Polar; she considers this her silver lining and has reached the place where she would rather live with it than without it.   However, that place is something for Emily to tell you about, not me, so I recommend you all find a copy of Start Over Again.  While you’re at it, if you don’t already have it, pick up Believer, the CD with the song which inspired the book and find out who Emily Maguire truly is for yourselves.

NB: Start Over Again is self published and is available from www.emilymaguire.com, and all good bookstores as well as for Kindle.

Emily Maguire and Christian Dunham - The Cluny 2, Newcastle, Nov 25th 2010

Emily Maguire and Christian Dunham @ The Cluny 2, Newcastle

25^th November 2010

Support for the evening, came, rather excessively in my view, in the form of two acts.  The first was local singer songwriter Anna Leigh, who, backed by two talented musicians, played a selection of original material, such as Addiction and Storybook and a couple of covers; my favourite being Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door, which she made entirely her own.  She has a pleasant voice, confident stage manner and certainly is one of the better local acts I have seen perform recently.

The second act is the one whose inclusion baffled me slightly.  The Restaurant, another local band, have a style which I can’t even define, truth be told.  It didn’t fit the evening and by a couple of songs into their set, I think many were struggling to pay attention, as it was already pushing  9pm, the heating in the venue was off so we were all sat with our coats still on, the snow was getting heavier outside  and we were eager to see the main act.  This was a shame, as actually they had a great sound, which in the right place would be both entertaining and couldn’t fail to create a good atmosphere.

Eventually, Emily, with partner and bassist, Christian Dunham, took to the stage, Emily looking quite glamorous in a long black sparkly dress, Christian immediately quipping that it was ‘tropical,’ whicgh immediately thawed the cold a little as Emily launched straight into Free, the opening song from her newest CD, Believer. Immediately I was reminded how stunning Emily’s voice is when she performs live.

As Emily coaxed her guitar to tune despite the temperature, or lack therof, Christian bantered about people they had seen that day (as they drove up the A1 in a blizzard) wearing just t-shirts, whilst he had on so many layers he looked like ‘Paddington with dreadlocks.’  There’ s an image.  Christian, like Emily, is someone you just can’t help but warm to; you can tell immediately that they are both very genuine people.

Guitar back onside, Emily told us about The Isle of Purbeck, the one place she missed when she went to Australia, and the inspiration for the next song, the beautiful Someday.  This was followed by Stranger Place from her first CD, before she took to the keyboard for the aching Wanting Time. Who hasn’t felt the emotions in this song?  Keep Walking, followed, her first Radio 2 single, then the moving Back Home.  Moving back to the keyboard, she played ‘a modern take on an old story’, a fabulous as yet unreleased song about Romeo and Juliet.  Talk about clever lyrics! Another unreleased song followed, which I had heard before but actually forgotten about, Golden and Gorgeous, which tells the story of two people who want to be just as the title suggests.  Watching Enmily and Christian play, it is clear how intuitively they work together; Christian’s hand moving up and down that bass so fast it’s like watching a speeding train.

A moment of musical heaven followed, as, talking about her most recent Radio 2 single, she mentioned their lack of a drummer, deciding to play I’d Rather Be in its original form at the keyboard.  It  was amazing to hear it as it began and I had to wonder if it was wrong to prefer that version to the final edit.

Bringing her set to a close, Emily told us that the following song was the story of her life in three and a half minutes, as well as the title to her newly released book, but I’ll come to that.  Of course that song was Start Over Again, a song which cannot fail to move. An exquisite set, the only complaint I have is it was too short!  I think all of us present could have listened to Emily sing all night.

I first saw Emily at a House Concert in 2007.  Since then I have seen her open for Eric Bibb and Roddy Frame at The Sage, Don MacLean at The City Hall and most recently was The Cluny 2 last September. Every single time I have seen her it is like watching a child flourish as she grows into her music and in many ways, herself.  As I mentioned earlier, she has just released a book called Start Over Again and on it’s release date, World Mental  Health Day, she divulged on Radio 2 that she has Bipolar disorder.  In many ways a very brave decision, but I have no doubt it was the right one.  For one, it surely gives her listeners a whole new understanding of where some of her lyrics came from as well as them being able to see her for who she really is.  An amazing as well as very talented person, who demonstrated at The Cluny 2 that sharing her secret has given her a whole new freedom and confidence to connect onstage with her songs and her audience.  Not to mention the unmistakable sparkle in her eyes as she sings.

So far hers has been an amazing journey but I can’t help but feel that actually, this is only the beginning.  It has to be said that I’d Rather be a fan of Emily’s music and find out what’s next, than have missed out on knowing her music.

For more information about Emily Maguire, her music and her book, please visit www.emilymaguire.com