Tag Archives | country

A Closer Look @ Coldwater Jane: Episode 1

By on February 1, 2012 in A Closer Look @

All month long we’re going to feature up-and-coming country duo,  Coldwater Jane, right here on Focus on the 615!

Take a moment to listen to their song “Bring On The Love” that is featured on all pages of the site this month.  I think that just might be VERY appropriate since this IS the month of love! So, happy early Valentine’s Day, I guess! 🙂  Never too soon to spread a little love and you can’t spread it too long, either!

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the song, as well as, learning a little more about Coldwater Jane here on this site with the video interviews entitled “A Closer Look @ Coldwater Jane”.  Be sure to come back each week for the new installment of the video interview series as we get to know them a bit better! I think you’ll love ’em as much as we do here at Focus on the 615 and you can find out more about them at: www.coldwaterjane.com.

Please support them if you like what you hear by buying their music on iTunes! We all need to support great music by continuing to buy it so great music can continue to be made just like this. 🙂

See this related article:

http://focusonthe615.com/2012/01/23/album-review-coldwater-jane-marionette/

 

 

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Album Review: Coldwater Jane ‘Marionette’

By on January 23, 2012 in Album & Song Reviews

Well, I admit that I had only heard the name, Coldwater Jane, but had not had the chance to hear their music until this past Saturday at Puckett’s in downtown Nashville.  In a word: AMAZING!

Coldwater Jane is comprised of sisters, Brandon Jane and Leah Crutchfield, from Lucedale, Miss.  A small town with a population of 2,990. They are incredibly talented, genuine, and artists that country music fans will love if they just have more of a chance to experience them. Again, another shocker for me because up until recently they were signed to Mercury Records until they parted ways. SOMEONE at another label snatch them up quick! More people need to hear their music and they just need the right promotion behind them. I’m convinced they would be a hit!

I was immediately impressed with the uptempo, optimistic and just plain catchy “Bring On The Love”.  It’s my favorite and what made me a fan of their music instantly, but there is so much more to love about this album!

Coldwater Jane’s 11-track release entitled ‘Marionette’ is another album FILLED with hits and songs that will just make you feel good. They have some of the best harmonies out there and their music will not only appeal to the contemporary country music lover, but also traditional country enthusiasts AND even bluegrass lovers since there is certainly a bluegrass feel in such songs as the title track “Marionette”.

“Rock My Soul” another uptempo is another favorite of mine. Followed by “Marionette” and traditionalists will love “Drifting Heart”. I’m having a very difficult time picking a favorite because this album is wonderful! It is FILLED with such beautiful music loaded with lyrical depth and sung wonderfully from the heart by this amazing duo. If you know what’s good for you, you’ll head over to iTunes right now and grab yourself a copy for just $9.99!

Be sure to check out Coldwater Jane and find out more about them at: www.coldwaterjane.com. You’ll be glad that you did!

Full track listing:

“Marionette”

“Bring On The Love”

“You’re The Best Thing Since Jesus”

“If You Only Had A Heart”

“Devil Train”

“Rock My Soul”

“Drifting Heart”

“Mississippi Mud”

“Tough As Nails”

“What Now?”

“Old Black Ford”

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. Wonderful album and let me add a “plus” on to this rating, as well, since I can’t rate it any higher! 🙂

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Album Review: Jesse Lee ‘Come After Me’

By on January 23, 2012 in Album & Song Reviews

Jesse LeeJesse Lee has GOT to be one of the most talented vocalists that I have come across in a long time.  She is what I would consider a vocal stylist with so much control and power in her voice.

Ever since I first heard her perform live a couple of years back, I’ve eagerly awaited her debut album from Atlantic Records and wondered why I hadn’t heard anything.  Come to find out she and Atlantic Records have recently parted ways, which I think is a terrible shame.  Somebody at a label with an ear for talent PLEASE pick up this artist.  Jesse Lee is incredible! I am shocked she’s not signed right this very moment.  Not only does she have this amazing voice, but she’s incredibly bubbly and fun.  I would think she would be a big hit with country music fans if they only get to be around her.  She’s very genuine, real, and her music needs to be heard by more people.

Luckily, her label let her keep her album to release herself.  This album is amazing and you can buy it right on her website for only $4.99, which is an absolute STEAL! This album is wonderfully-produced, great lyrics, track after track of hits sung by the incredibly talented Jesse Lee.  It is a MUST-HAVE for any country fan, in my opinion!

It’s very hard for me to pick a favorite because I absolutely love every song on this 9-track album entitled ‘Come After Me’! “Come After Me”, the title track sticks out to me especially.  This power ballad is filled with such emotion and just beautiful! “Cry Baby” is a fun, sassy, uptempo number.  “Ghost Of Us” is mid-tempo, powerful, and tugs right at your heart.  “Talk to Me” is another favorite.  This song will appeal to traditional country lovers, as well as, contemporary.  It’s simply beautiful and another power ballad filled with emotion. Really, I can go straight down the list of songs and from top to bottom tell you how much I love each.  Not a weak one in the bunch! There’s something here for everyone!

Buy it at www.jesseleemusic.com if you know what’s good for you and want to hear some amazing music!

Full track listing:

“Come After Me”

“Cry Baby”

“Ghost Of Us”

“Talk To Me”

“See A Little Difference”

“Just Like Yesterday”

“If I Were You”

“If I Could Anywhere”

Bonus track: “Love Chooses You”

You can, also, check out her video for “It’s A Girl Thing” right here, too: http://youtu.be/B36NaCTis14

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.  If I could give it higher than that, I would.  How about 5 stars plus? 🙂

 

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Song Review: “Wonders” By Steve Rutledge

By on January 10, 2012 in Album & Song Reviews

“Wonders” is written and performed by Steve Rutledge.   Aside from being one of the most talented guitarist around (he was recently honored at 2011 NAMM’s All-Star Guitar Night), Steve is a talented singer and songwriter.  In fact, there’s not much Steve can’t do! He produces, plays guitar, bass, keyboard, sings, and writes.  He has played for audiences worldwide and shared the stage with artists like: Steve Holy, Trace Adkins, Reba, Emerson Drive, Jake Owen, Heidi Newfield, Trick Pony, Toby Keith, Monte Montgomery, Trisha Yearwood, Patty Loveless, John Michael Montgomery, Montgomery Gentry, John Fogerty, The Eagles, Lonestar, Lee Ritenour, James Burton, Jack Pearse, Seymour Duncan, Rick Vito, Muriel Anderson, James Otto, Big and Rich, Gretchen Wilson, Keith Anderson, Mark Wills, Jo Dee Messina, Kelly Pickler, Taylor Swift, Michael English and many more.   Steve’s, also, a good friend of mine who has just released this new single to radio.

“Wonders” is an uptempo, optimistic song.  It’s the type of song that just builds and builds.  Ever since I first heard it 3 years ago, I have loved this song and hoped that more people could hear it.  Steve Holy did release it with has most recent album, but it’s good to hear Steve Rutledge‘s version.

This song is special to me for good reason.  It helped me through a very dark time in my life and gave me that little bit of hope that I needed at the time.  Honestly, I can’t help, but tear up each time I do hear it.  Not because it’s sad, it’s far from it, but because of what this song means to me. I’ve mentioned in the About section of this site that music has helped me through some difficult times in my life and why I do this music blog.  This is one of the reasons right here.  “Wonders” is a song that helped me through my darkest hour when I was diagnosed with MS back in May of 2009.  I’ll never forget when Steve performed at a benefit that was held for me and sang this song.  He and several other close friends came together to give me hope to get through that time by organizing a benefit for me.  So, it’s a very emotional and meaningful song to me.

Anyway, it’s well-done and I hope you’ll check it out. If you feel so inclined, be sure to check it out at radio!

To hear wonders, check it out right HERE!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

 

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Album Review: Kelly Lang’s ‘11.11’

By on January 10, 2012 in Album & Song Reviews

Kelly LangOne thing that I appreciate most with an album is when the artist writes or co-writes their own songs.  Kelly Lang wrote or co-wrote 10 out of 11 songs on this album. That’s how you get a true feel of an artist.  Kelly, also, produced the album.  I do appreciate an artist that is this well-rounded.

I found this 11-track fully-produced album by Kelly Lang entitled ‘11.11’ to be enjoyable.  While I couldn’t see this release topping the country charts or garnering nominations for CMAs or ACMS because I don’t think it fits into what country radio is playing right now, I still found it enjoyable and I think traditional country fans would appreciate this album.  The songs flow and mostly traditional country.  Although, it is an eclectic mix of songs at times, it mostly leans towards traditional country.  The album as a whole is not going to “wow” you, but it’s still a nice listen.

“I Thought He’d Be here By Now” is a radio-friendly, uptempo song.   I wasn’t a big fan of the singing at the beginning of this song because it sounded a tiny bit flat to me, but as the song progressed, I really enjoyed it and the singing was good.   This song has a more contemporary feel and slight rock edge to it.  “On And On” is my favorite song from the album.  It is a ballad that flows musically, very traditional country, and soothing with great lyrics.  “I Was Wrong” is a mid-tempo, bluesy song that I enjoyed, but it didn’t quite fit with the rest of the album.  “If You Knew” is another mid-tempo, traditional country tune that I especially enjoyed the lyrics.  I, also, really enjoyed “If I’d Only Known”.  At the beginning, it had a very Irish feel to it.  Reminded me of  the score from ‘Lord Of The Dance’ and then flowed into being a traditional country, mid-tempo song about regrets with occasional rock guitar riffs.  “I’m done” was perhaps my least favorite of the album.  It was a mid-tempo song that had a little bit of a dated feel to me.  Not traditional country and classic, but more of a blend of 80s pop along the lines of Lionel Richie’s “Hello”.  It just didn’t quite fit with the rest of the album, either.  The last track on the album is “You Are My Sunshine”–the classic song that has been redone many times that Lang put a very bluesy twist on and I loved her voice on it.  I found this one to be a fun addition and nice way to end the album.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars.

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Craig Morgan Prepares To Release New Album On February 28th

By on January 9, 2012 in In The Press, The Latest

This Ole BoyNashville, TN…(January 9, 2012)…Country music star and TV host CRAIG MORGAN is preparing to release his sixth studio album, This Ole Boy, on February 28. The release marks Morgan’s first new music in nearly three years, and his first with Black River Entertainment after signing with the label in April 2011.

Hollywood actress Angie Harmon (Rizzoli & Isles/TNT) stars alongside Morgan in the sweet and surprising music video clip for the title track lead single.  The video, directed by Kristin Barlowe, was filmed in Arrington, Tennessee late last year. Entertainment Tonight will exclusively premiere the music video TODAY at ETOnline.com. The video can be seen on various TV and online platforms in the coming days, and will be available for digital download later this month.

ABOUT CRAIG MORGAN: One of country music’s best-loved artists, Craig Morgan has made a name for himself with massive radio airplay of his signature hits:  “Bonfire,” “Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday” and “International Harvester”. His newest single “This Ole Boy,” currently climbing the country radio charts, is the title track to his upcoming sixth studio CD, releasing February 28, 2012. Craig received one of country music’s highest honors when he was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 2008. Prior to becoming a country music and TV sensation, Craig Morgan spent over 10 years of active duty in the Army and an additional nine years in the Army Reserves.  He is an avid supporter of America’s military personnel and a recipient of the 2006 USO Merit Award. For more information on Craig Morgan, please visit www.craigmorgan.com or follow him on Twitter @cmorganmusic.

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Song Review: Marlee Scott “Train Wreck” Featuring Vince Gill

By on January 8, 2012 in The Latest

Marlee ScottCountry artist Marlee Scott is officially releasing her new single, “Train Wreck”, featuring Vince Gill to radio on January 23 and available for purchase on iTunes on January 24th. 

“Train Wreck” was written by songwriting heavy-hitters: Marcus Hummon, Jedd Hughes, and Sarah Buxton.  All have multiple hits on the charts to their names.

“Train Wreck” is an uptempo, fun, sassy, tongue-in-cheek tune that is powerfully-sung by new artist, Marlee Scott.  I equally enjoyed the production of this song done by engineer/producer David Kalmusky.  The song has a fantastic blend of country, rock, and a bluegrass chorus all done with excellent musicianship.

Fun lyrics, great vocals, catchy song, featuring a musical legend, and fantastic musicianship along with masterful production all equal a great song! No complaints here.  Well done!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

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Mandy Barnett @ 3rd and Lindsley

By on January 7, 2012 in The Latest

Mandy BarnettAdmittedly, I’ve really never been a huge fan of traditional country music.   However, because of my love for contemporary country music, I’ve learned to appreciate the older, traditional country music.  I think if my dad was still alive, he’d probably be shocked to hear me say that since I begged him on many family roadtrips as a kid to “turn that twangy stuff off”! That’s why I surprise even myself that I have become a fan of Mandy Barnett.

Mandy Barnett is definitely an artist who is steeped in tradition and a country music purist.  She likes to perform the country classics and is best known for her performances in the starring role of musical legend, Patsy Cline, in ‘Always…Patsy Cline‘.

On Saturday, January 7th, I was able to attend her show at 3rd and Lindsley (one of my favorite local places around town to hear live music).  Luckily, I got there almost 2 hours before showtime because the place was already halfway full and parking scarce.  An hour prior to the performance and it was packed to capacity! Wow, she draws a crowd, but I had a feeling that might be the case and why I arrived just after the doors first opened.

Mandy was due to start performing at 730pm.  I figured since this was Nashville, that probably meant she would take the stage around 8pm.  It’s just not uncommon for shows to start late.  I don’t know if it’s to build anticipation or what, but to be honest, it’s kind of annoying when artists make you wait for their performance.  Just par for the course, though, it seems and you just get used to it.  However, I was pleasantly surprised when Mandy took the stage at exactly 730pm! No pretenses, no delay…it was NICE and very much appreciated!

From the moment that Mandy Barnett takes the stage, she commands it and captures the crowd’s attention.  There are no antics, no pretenses, no background singers (she doesn’t need them)…only what seems to be a pure and honest love for performing.  Her set is filled with classics from Patsy Cline to Roy Orbison.  Her vocals are flawless.  She has both control and power.  A true world-class vocalist that is a rare and exceptional talent.  Her delivery of each song leaves you lingering on each note, feeling the emotional depth, and wanting to hear more.Mandy Barnett

My favorite song of the night was “Crazy”–the Patsy Cline classic that Mandy performs flawlessly.  Truly, no one else out there is going to be able to come close to Mandy’s version of this song.  She’s honed her craft and delivery of this song for years on the stage of the Ryman Auditorium while standing in the very same circle that Patsy Cline herself sung so many years ago.

Mandy Barnett is a class act and a rare talent.  More people should know of her and experience her live.

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Album Review: Mark Wayne Glasmire Self-Titled Release

By on January 7, 2012 in Album & Song Reviews

This new 7-track self-titled EP from artist, Mark Wayne Glasmire, is set for release on January 10th.

Mark Wayne GlasmireIf you’ve never heard of Mark Wayne Glasmire,  I would describe Mark’s music as a cross between Pat Green, Jimmy Buffett, and maybe even a little bit of Billy Joel thrown in there, too.

Track By Track Review:

“Last Of A Dying Breed”:  An uptempo, optimistic song that’s an anthem to the working class man and values that don’t seem to hold true for most anymore.

“I Like You”:  This fun, mid-tempo song put me in mind of a Jimmy Buffett song.  I could picture myself down in the Florida Keys listening to this song with a bit of a tropical feel to it.

“Going Home”:  This reflective, mid-tempo song reminded me a little of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”.  Especially right at the beginning, but really throughout the tune.  My favorite of the album about a man rethinking his decisions and a hint of an Irish feel.  Especially enjoyed his voice on this one and the lyrics.

“The Last Goodbye”:  This ballad was my least favorite on this album.  Just a little too sleepy for me.

“She’s Got It All”:  Another fun, uptempo song that I could picture played live in a bar in Texas with the beer flowing and crowds of people on the dance floor.

“Now I Believe”:  Mid-tempo, optimistic song about love .  Almost an Irish feel about the song, too.

“The Moment”:  Reflective, melancholy ballad about rethinking decisions of the past.

I would recommend this album to anyone who enjoys a compelling voice with meaningful lyrics and strong melodies.  I wouldn’t say that Mark Wayne Glasmire’s voice is the strongest or that he is the absolute best singer that I’ve heard, but there was something quite compelling and honest about this whole album.  I would say he’s more of a songwriter than a singer.  Very enjoyable to listen to.  Sung from the heart by someone that I actually believe has lived these experiences that most can relate to and who have reached a point in their lives, also, that they are rethinking decisions of the past.  Perhaps these are all decisions made by the young, rash man who has now grown a little older and wiser through his life experiences.  Seems to be the theme of the album.

It is a slightly eclectic mix of songs, but heavily-rooted in country, folk, and, yes, even a little Irish influence in the album.  Maybe that was just me hearing that, but that’s what I was put in mind of and since country was heavily-influenced by the Scotch/Irish settlers in the south, that makes perfect since.  I could envision myself possibly in an Irish pub listening to some of these songs on the album enjoying a nice, frothy beverage when I wasn’t hanging out in the Florida Keys.  Definitely worth a listen!

Rated 3 1/2 out of 5 stars.

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Album Review: Mark Cooke ‘Living For The Weekend’

By on January 3, 2012 in Album & Song Reviews

It took me a while to review this 6-track EP from Mark Cooke entitled ‘Living For The Weekend’.  Unfortunately, it fell under a big pile of things to do.

Well, I just have to say that I’m glad that it did not get lost in that pile for good! This album from new country artist, Mark Cooke, was well-written with great vocals that put me in mind of musical greats like Clint Black and George Strait.  In fact, I picked up a hint of Texas in this cd while listening.  Being originally from Texas myself, I couldn’t help but hear that, I suppose.  I just HAD to check his website to see where Mark is originally from.  Yes, Texas! haha  I just KNEW it! I guess you can take us out of Texas, but can’t take the Texas out of us, huh? 🙂  Anyway…see my track by track review below.

Track by track review:

“Any Way The Wind Blows”:  Uptempo, full of optimism, hope…really a great song!

“Living For The Weekend”:  Another uptempo, fun song.  Makes you want to get up and dance.

“Can’t Cheat In A Small Town”:  My favorite song of the album.  A mid-tempo song with a slightly dark feel to this song.

“Stay With Me Tonight”:  Beautiful, poignant ballad.  Even gave me chills a couple of times.

“I Love It”:  A great, uptempo song that would be just right for the summer.

“I’ll Take This Town”:  Mid-tempo, great vocals, well-written, and can easily visualize a video from this one.  Another great one for the summer.

I highly recommend this album from new artist, Mark Cooke.  If you like steel guitar, banjo, fiddles, well-written songs, excellent vocals with both a traditional/contemporary country fell, then this album is for you.  Check Mark Cooke out, he’s worth a listen!

 

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

 

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