New and recent releases:
Andrea Zonn – Rise – Compass Records – This is a truly beautiful album from a fine vocalist and violinist who has played with some of music’s best, including James Taylor, Vince Gill, Linda Ronstadt and Lyle Lovett. The album combines an all-star rhythm section – Willie Weeks and Steve Gadd – with an impressive array of songs co-written with some of Nashville’s most substantive songwriters.
Highlights include “Another Side of Home,” a thoughtful look back written with Bill Lloyd and Thomm Jutz, “Another Swing and a Miss” written with Peter Cooper and Jutz, and the Kim Richey-Zonn-Jutz composition, “Where the Water Meets the Sky,” featuring harmony vocals from Sam Bush.
James Taylor shows his respect by singing harmony on “You Make Me Whole,” an affirming contribution to this reflective and rewarding collection. (Ken Paulson)
Lucero – All A Man Should Do – ATO Records – This album recorded at Ardent Studios in Memphis is already at # 20 on the Americana Music Association airplay chart. Lucero is on tour now, with upcoming stops in Oklahoma, Nebraska, Utah, Washington and Oregon.
Jonas Carping – Cocktails & Gasoline – Recorded in a cabin in rural Sweden, but the album doesn’t sound like it. Lots of emotional peaks and valleys, propelled by ambitious production.
Andy Hackbarth – Panorama Hotel – This Colorado artist’s new album was “written and recorded in the wake of a messy breakup,” according to press materials.
Stephen Young and the Union – Eagle Fort Rumble – The new album from this Irish Americana band is set for release Nov. 27.
The Dappled Grays – Las Night, Tomorrow – The third album from the talented bluegrass group. The band had two songs featured in Trouble with the Curve
Chris Laterzo – West Coast Sound – The fifth studio album from this LA-based artist will remind you of Tom Petty’s solo work.
Leroy Powell – The Overlords of the Cosmic Revelation – Cleopatra Records – A space opera from Shooter Jennings’ former guitarist. Powell promises (with tongue in cheek) that “this is the greatest record ever recorded by anyone and of all time.”
Jeff Crosby and the Refugees – Waking Days – Coming Nov. 6, Jeff Crosby’s new album was recorded in Los Angeles and Nashville.
Electric Rag Band – My Side – Horton Records – The sixth album from the Tulsa-based father and son duo.