16th December 2010 - Christmas is nearly upon us, but before we get there it
seems we have more snow to manouvre our way through! At least we can always rely
on excellent new music to cheer us all up!
Talking of new music; following last weeks excellent Drifter Promotions gig
starring Mark Olson, I've been listening to an album by his support artist Mark
Wynn entitled 'Backstreet ballads & assorted wrecks.' I've heard him compared to
the late great Townes Van Zandt and whilst this is an exageration, I can
actually see what is meant. There isn't time to review it in depth but he is a
really good singer, songwriter and banjo and guitar player and has that slightly
jaded Townes feel to his singing and songs. He is still young and given a chance
to develop may well go on to emulate Townes, hopefully with his musical talents
rather than lifestyle! Definitely a brilliant talent who will get better still!
ALSO:- Keep those album of the year lists coming but no more than 10 albums.
Contact can be made through the contacts page on this site or email to
americanrootsuk.com
12th December 2010 - I've just added a review of the debut album by 'Pappy'
entitled 'Pappy Time'. It is much better than you'd expect it to be with such a
stupid name!
Also:- I've recently been given a copy of the new Matthews Southern Comfort
album 'Kind of new', their first in 39 years! I was going to review it but to be
honest I couldn't be bothered to listen to the album more than once. Excellent
male & female vocals on an album that struck me as appalling MOR music! I never
review any album without listening to it at least a few times so there will be
no review of this one! It's a shame because I've always liked Ian Matthews, even
on some of his more bland offerings, but this one, if I went in for seasonal
cliches, would be labelled a 'turkey'!!!
7th December 2010 - Nearly at the end of the year so keep your albums of the
year lists coming! I would prefer that you just send in your top 10 albums. I
don't know what my 50th favourite album of the year is, so don't really think
that knowing yours helps me a lot!
I've just added a review of the new album by Texan singer songwriter Opie
Hendrix. I was not knocked out by it but there is potential there!
ALSO:- Some years ago I did some lecturing on the History of Americana music.
During one session I played a song called 'Another day on route 66' by Jerry
Merritt and the whole class was absolutely knocked out by it. Jerry was a
guitarist with Gene Vincent about 5 decades ago and has made few recordings
since. I've just managed to get hold of an album that compiles some of his
recordings but doesn't actually include the aforementioned song. Does anyone
have any information on Jerry or the song? I don't even know who wrote it or
when Jerry recorded it. The info. I had at the time indicated that it was
recorded in 1957 but I find this difficult to believe, due in the main to the
high quality of the recording. It is a great song and needs to be heard by as
many fans of 'Country' music as possible! Any information that anyone can give
me will be greatly appreciated and will be used in something I am currently
working on. I've just managed to add the song to the Seaside Hospital radio list
so I'm hoping to play it fairly regularly on my country music programme as well
as on 'American Roots.'
1st December 2010 - I've just uploaded a review of the superb new album by June
Star 'Lower your arms.'
I'm hoping to start a series on bands/solo artists that have the talent to
become stars but due to promotional constraints are not quite there yet! It will
consist of a short biography and brief reviews of all their albums. It will be
an occasional series and will start early in the new year (2011). You probably
won't be amazed to read that the first band will be June Star!
30th November 2010 - Where has the year gone. I seem to have mislaid about 6
months! Anyway, on to business! The more observant will notice there is an extra
page on
americanrootsuk.com entitled LOST HIGHWAY. It is self explanatory if you have
ever been to any of Claire Lloyds monthly promotions at the Brunswick. If you
haven't, have a look at the page. There is what should be an amzing gig this
Friday!
The page is still under development and will gradually be added to.
Also:- Don't forget if you want to send in a list of your 'Albums of the Year'
feel free to do so. I was just going to publish a top 10, but most of the ones
I've received so far have had 15 or 20 so will probably do a top 20 instead. The
deadline will be Christmas Eve and I will try to publish the list either the
following week or in the first week of 2011. A lot of the lists received so far
are very similar to mine, and there was me thinking I was the only person with
exquisite musical taste!
20th November 2010 - I've just found out that people check this page before
looking at anything on this site, so everytime I add something to the site I
will note it on this page as a news item, so here goes with the last week or so!
There have been five c.d reviews added in the last seven days, Wednesday nights
'American Roots' radio playlist plus the Recommended albums list has now been
extended with albums by individual artists.
In the next few days I'm hoping to add several more c.d reviews including the
incredible new album by June Star entitled 'Lower your arms'. There will also be
a belated live review of the Southern Tenant Folk Unions Crawley gig.
I will put a copy of the news message on facebook as well.
13th November 2010 - I've added a new page entitled 'Recommended Albums'. Pretty
self explanatory title really! I'm starting off with compilation albums from my
collection and will also gradually include single artist albums that I consider
worthy of adding to your collection! I'm not sure what the final layout of the
page will be (if indeed there is one) but it will just have to develop as we
go along!
More will be added in a few days.
11th November 2010 - I've just uploaded last nights 'American Roots' playlist.
It is so good I almost wish I could have just laid back & listened to it! It was
a 2 hour programme again this week so the list is quite long.
Also:- People keep asking me to recommend Roots albums from throughout the
decades of recording so I'm going to add a new page shortly. It will consist of
a list of what I consider essential albums. The first part of the list will be
compilations, but single artist albums will gradually be added as well. Rather
than wait until it is completed I will post it right from the start. If anyone
has any questions or ideas for further site improvements I'm always open to
suggestions!
Finally don't forget to submit your albums of the years using the contacts page.
A few have started coming in already. Should be a bit of fun anyway!
7th November 2010 - I've added a review of the brilliant new album by the Black
Twig Pickers 'Ironto Special'
3rd November 2010 - A friend recently mentioned to me that perhaps I should have
a top 10 albums vote at the end of the year. At first I thought it wouldn't work
but then thought why not? Consequently I've decided that any readers that want
to join in with the fun, if you send me your top 10 'American Roots' albums of
2010 I will publish it on a new page just before Christmas. I will also come up
with a top ten of my own and at a later date might try to sort something out for
an all time great list of albums! Try to keep the albums under the 'American
Roots' banner, which gives plenty of scope (i.e. Blues, Country, Alt. Country,
American Folk and quite a few more sub headings!) They can be new releases or re
releases, just as long as that release date was this year.
Either use the contact page on this site or email mikemorrison10@gmail.com
30th October 2010 - What a great last few days of music! On Wednesday night
there was the incomparable Otis Gibbs, really well supported by Will Burns (of
Treecreeper) on a Drifter promotions bill at the Prince Albert! Last night we
had a trip to the Hawth at Crawley to see the brilliant Southern Tenant Folk
Union. At the start of this year I thought they were finished when Pat McGarvey
lost virtually
the whole band, but he rebuilt with a bunch of excellent Edinburgh based
musicians and consequently are now at least as good as the original lineup and
with an excellent new and well reviewed album 'The new farming scene.' I will
hopefully be reviewing the gig in the next few days.
Roll on March 2011 when Drifter Promotions are putting them on at the Albert!
28th October 2010 - I've just uploaded a few photos of Danni Nicholls and Nick
Funke at this years 'Applefest' plus some from last nights excellent Otis
Gibbs/Will Burns gig at the Prince Albert, Brighton.
25th October 2010 - Today I've added a couple more reviews. One is of a book
'Yonder comes the Blues', the other is a review of Eric Claptons new album
'Clapton'.
Highlights of this week are likely to be Otis Gibbs at the Prince Albert,
Brighton, on Wednesday night. Then on Friday night at the Hawth, Crawley it's
the brilliant Southern Tenant Folk Union. Both are unmissable; easy to say when
you have tickets! (which I have!)
23rd October 2010 - I've added a live review of the Curst Sons brilliant
performance at the Brunswick, Hove a week ago!
Don't forget:- Tomorrow night at the Foundry, Brighton, Danni Nicholls hosts an
Americana evening. One of the artists playing is the brilliant Ben Rogers fresh
from his support slot at Thursday nights Luke Doucet gig. I'm hopeful of being
able to go! A performer has to be exceptional to make me even think of venturing
out on a Sunday night!
Plus! This coming Wednesday is a rare treat when Otis Gibbs will be playing at
the Prince Albert, Brighton. I've seen him several times and have vowed never to
miss him when he plays in Brighton. He really is that good!
22nd October 2010 - Just added a review of the brilliant new album by The Duke
and the King entiteld 'Long live the Duke and the King'. Several more reviews
will follow in the next few days including, hopefully, a couple of live ones.
Talking of live! An incredible talent was discovered last night at the Prince
Albert in Brighton. No, it wasn't Luke Doucet. The assemblage were already aware
of his prowess. The discovery was of Ben Rogers. He could, if given a decent
chance, turn out to be one of the best singer/songwriters for a generation. I
kid you not. He is that good. Add to the songwriting his deep expressive voice
and you have a sure fire winner if there is any justice left in this world! I'm
just listening to his almost impossible to find album 'Devil take the hindmost'
and it just oozes class. Perhaps i'll add a review of that soon. I can't imagine
why it's not on general release.
21st October 2010 - I've just completed my usual Thursday morning job of
uploading last nights Seaside Hospital radio playlist. It is certainly no less
diverse than usual!
Off to see Luke Doucet and ben Rogers at the Prince Albert, Brighton tonight!
Should be a great evening!
16th October 2010 - Back from a really good day at 'Applefest 2010'. Great to
see so many people having a good time with good food, good beer/cider/applejuice
and excellent music. The highlight by some distance was the lovely and talented
Danni Nicholls, added to which I finally met her in person! She played a
terrific set to a packed and spellbound marquee crowd, with her always excellent
music sidekick Nick Funke on double bass, mandolin and acoustic guitar.
Superstardom really must beckon soon!
The other weekend highlight (two in one weekend!) has to be the incredible
performance by the Curst Sons at the Brunswick, Hove, last night (Friday). I've
been going to their gigs for about ten years and am always in awe of their
incredible musical abilities. Some friends went for the first time last night
and were blown away by what they witnessed! (a review will follow in a few days)
13th October 2010 - It's been a while since the last news so I thought I'd add a
few snippets! I'll be uploading this weeks 'American Roots' playlist either
tomorrow or Friday. Talking of Friday, don't forget the Curst Sons are playing
at the Brunswick this Friday night. Should be a great evening! Also this weekend
there is the 'Applefest' at Middle Farm, near Lewes. It's a great family weekend
where you can eat and drink everything to do with apples plus a lot more
besides! There is lots of excellent music including Rory Mcleod, John Otway and
Mountain Fireworks Company amongst many others!
26th September 2010 - Just changed a few pictures. Added three album covers by
some of my favourite artists to the banner on the home page plus changed Frank
Fairfields photo for one of the Old Crow Medicine Show. Had to give them the
place of honour after their incredible performance in Brighton last week!!!
24th September 2010 - I've just uploaded the final chapter of 'A history of the
blues'. I hope that anyone that has read it has got something out of it. The
story was never meant to be definitive; just one thin thread through the history
of an incredible music genre. If anyone has any questions feel free to contact
me. I'm thinking of extending the whole of the blues story and also the
'Americana history' and doing larger pen pictures and more about the individual
albums.
I've also uploaded a review of the Dylan Leblanc album 'Paupers field' today.
Still recovering from the amazing performance put on by the Old Crow medicine
Show on Wednesday night and am really looking forward to seeing Eilen Jewell at
the Basement next Friday!
12th September 2010 - Just added chapter 10 of 'A history of the Blues' plus a
couple of c.d reviews. There is a quickie of the new stripped down disc by
Simone Felice in the short reviews section and a 4 year old Various Artists
compilation 'Strange Country' that's well worth a listen.
Just listening, for the second time today, to the new Robert Plant album 'Band
of Joy', and thinking wouldn't it be nice if the hype machine dealt in truth
rather than hype! Don't get me wrong, initially it sounds a good album, but
hardly 'defines country music for the 21st century!'
Ho hum; maybe it's just that I feel lousy physically as well as cynically!
10th September 2010 - This week I've been listening to new albums by Back Road
Baptists, The Molenes, Colin Gilmore, Old Man Luedecke, Justin Townes Earle,
Simone Felice & a 2006 Various Artists compilation called 'Strange Country'.
Will gradually post reviews of each.
Having a break from albums from 6-00 till 8-00 tonight by listening to
RadioReverb. The programme should appeal to anyone that actually reads this.
It's called 'Songs from the Ark' & it's live! As if that's not enough it's
presented by Del Day!
5th September 2010 - Another 'Drifter Promotions' triumph at the Prince Albert
last night. It started with the talented acoustic guitar duo of '-a+M',
continued with the highly unusual trio of 'Hamilton Yarns' and finally a short
but incredible set by Frank Fairfield. I can say with absolute certainty that I
have never seen his like before! Review to follow in a few days!
The following is a message I put on facebook yesterday and really should have
put on this site:-
If anyone knows any other local promoters of 'American Roots' music (other than
the already mentioned 'Drifter promotions')that would like to add their gigs to
my listings please tell them to contact me at mikemorrison10@gmail.com or
through this website. I won't include any venues larger than the Komedia and I
will have final say on what to include! The same applies to local bands,
soloists, etc. This site is taking a large number of hits now and although I
have no illusions of power, it might just get one or two more people interested!
The benefit I get will be that with larger crowds promoters are more likely to
keep promoting the gigs that I want to see and the music I love!
1st September 2010 - Will hopefully be adding the next chapter of 'A history of
the blues', plus tonights 'American Roots' playlist, plus a review of last
Thursdays Water Tower Bucket Boys incredible gig, all in the next couple of
days!
As an afterthought I'm currently listening to new albums by '17 Pygmies',
'Buzzard Hollow Boys' and 'Frank Fairfield'. All are excellent but as a brief
pre-review description, the first is a strange folksyish album! The second
covers a large area, from Dave Alvin type country to Western Swing to Blues! The
Frank Fairfield album is incredible 'old time/hillbilly'. He is to country what
Charlie Parr is to blues! Reviews to follow eventually!
Also listening to Imelda May and her take on roots/rockabilly.
30th August 2010 - This is not really news but I'm still not very happy with the
current template for this site. Over the next week or two the look may (or may
not!) change, depending on what other templates I can come up with. It just
seems there is so much wasted space at the sides, but other templates I've tried
have other drawbacks. If anyone has any feelings about, or suggestions for, feel
free to message me on facebook or email at mikemorrison10@gmail.com
When I manage to work out how to do it I will be setting up email addresses that
link to this website!
Have a good (so far, sunny) Bank Holiday!
28th August 2010 - A couple of extra features added today. The first is a gig
photos page, the second is video, most of which will come from youtube, but will
always have relevance to this site in as much as all clips will be of American
Roots artists.
25th August 2010 - A milestone (or is it millstone) day! This site is now
www.americanrootsuk.com
Hopefully I can gradually get a few professional bits and pieces working such as
video, sounds, etc.
13th August 2010 - Got my homepage back and just changed a few photos!
Also:- Added 5 new c.d reviews!
12th August 2010 - Anyone coming to this site direct, without seeing my post on
facebook, will notice that the home page is missing. Something went wrong when I
was doing some work and now I can't find it! I will be upgrading the site in a
couple of weeks so will probably make a new homepage then. I can't imagine it
will cause any inconvenience to anyone except me, but if it does, sorry!
5th August NEWS UPDATE:
Sorry to be the bearer of bad tidings but tonights gig at the Prince Albert is
cancelled due to Hannah-Lou being ill. The good news is that Drifter promotions
are trying to reschedule the gig.
05th August 2010 - As threatened; sorry, I mean as promised; I've uploaded
chapter 6 of 'A history of the blues' plus last nights playlist from the Seaside
Hospital Radio, 'American Roots' programme. Dave Field was heard to comment that
he enjoyed the Dock Boggs track, thus proving once and for all that he is a man
of exquisite taste!!! (There's that strange smell again Dave!)
Also:- Just in case I forgot to mention it yesterday (which, I didn't, ah well,
ho hum!) tonight at the Prince Albert in Brighton those nice people from Drifter
promotions (I must stop being so nice, I'm told it just doesn't suit me!) are
putting on not only the excellent Trevor Moss and Hannah-Lou but also
R.G.Morrison (no, he isn't me; he has talent; and no we're not related). A great
evening of music in prospect!
And yet another also:- Hopefully I'll be uploading at least another couple of
c.d reviews, sometime in the next few days.
04th August 2009 - This is not actually news for today but tomorrow I'll be
uploading tonights American Roots playlist plus chapter 6 in 'A History of the
Blues'
***Don't forget*** Tomorrow night at the Prince Albert, Brighton, there is a
double bill of excellent roots music. Trevor Moss & Hannah-Lou are headlining &
support is by the just as impressive R.G.Morrison (no relation, at least, as far
as I'm aware!) all courtesy of Drifter promotions!
31st July 2010 - Just added a couple of short c.d reviews in the 'Extra c.d
reviews' section plus a short book review, unsurprisingly, in 'Book reviews'! I
will probably, infrequently, add a few more book reviews, as and when I read
them!
I will also be adding the next chapter of 'A history of the blues' in the next
few days.
Also:- Don't forget the 'Bungalow Town 3' music festival is on at the Crown &
Anchor in Shoreham High Street today and tomorrow. I'm hoping to get there by
early evening to see 'Porchlight Smoker' (scheduled for 6-30 p.m.)
22nd July 2010 - Just added last nights Seaside Hospital radio 'American Roots'
playlist plus a couple of newly published c.d. reviews. One by Karen Elson & the
other by Yarn.
Also:- Don't forget, this Saturday at the Basement, Brighton, the amazing Diana
Jones is playing one of her very few British gigs.
19th July 2010- Don't forget, this coming Saturday at the Basement venue in
Brighton, the wonderful Diana Jones is playing.
Also:- I found out from a flyer that dropped through the letterbox over the
weekend that 'Bungalow Town 3', a local music festival takes place at the Crown
& Anchor pub in Shoreham High Street over the weekend Fridsay 30th July through
to Sunday 1st August. I haven't been able to locate a dedicated website but
there are many talented local musicians playing on all three days, including on
Saturday, the excellent Brighton based band 'Porchlight Smoker'. Things get
under way from 3-30 p.m on Friday, 3-00 on saturday & 2-00 on Sunday.
If interested & wanting more information try contacting the venue or at a pinch
I can tell you who is down to play
if you want to message or email me.
Finally:- A couple of c.d reviews plus one book review will be posted sometime
this week.
Just listening to a brilliant new album by Jacob Jones entitled 'Bound for
glory', which will probably be my album of the week on the 'American Roots,
Seaside Hospital radio prog. on Wednesday night.
16th July 2010 - New computer is up & working so have added Wednesday night's
'American Roots' playlist plus a couple of extra c.d. reviews plus chapter 4 of
'A history of the blues'.
Ian Siegal is at Ropetackle tonight & I almost certainly won't be!
Next Saturday Diana Jones is at the basement, Brighton & we will definitely be
there. She is a great old-time singer/songwriter in a similar way to Gillian
Welch.
14th July 2010 - After this piece of news there probably won't be any more
updates for 2-4 days. I'm expecting delivery of a new computer either tomorrow
or Friday, then when I've mastered it, business as usual and i'll be uploading
another chapter of 'A history of the blues' plus several c.d reviews.
Also, and more importantly! I've just realised that the amazing blues singer/
guitarist Ian Siegal is playing at the Ropetackle centre, Shoreham this Friday
16th. He has made 5 excellent albums and names Muddy Waters as his biggest
influence, although he also plays what might be termed 'Americana'. I highly
recommend him although I'm not sure if I can make it yet!
9th July 2010 - Just uploaded chapter 3 of 'A history of the Blues'
It's too hot to sit indoors listening to music so there will be a delay in
publishing the review of Sara Petite's new album! Talking of whom: What an
incredible gig she & her band 'the Sugar daddies' played at the Albert last
night. ...I'm always going on about country being edgy music & that nashvilles
version is country pap! (sorry, I mean pop!) If all country music had the
quality & edginess Of Sara & her band I'd have no complaints at all! She has a
lovely edgy twang to her voice, great personality, brilliant backing musicians &
is a perceptive, hugely talented songwriter. I'd better stop there because the
'Maverick' mag. wants a review so there will be a long delay in publishing it to
this site!
Next unmissable gig that I know of is Diana Jones at the Basement, Brighton on
July 24th. Another great country singer/songwriter but comes at it from more of
an 'old-time/hillbilly' angle. See you there!
8th July 2010 - Just uploaded last nights 'American roots' playlist. It may look
a bit disjointed musically but it actually did work (despite Ringo!)
In the next few days I'm hoping to upload the next chapter of 'A history of the
blues' plus a review of Sara Petite's great new album. (did I mention that she's
playing at the Prince Albert tonight? Yes, I think I did, so I won't bother
again)
7th July 2010 - Just added a short review of Sara petite's two years old album
'Lead the parade, to quickie reviews. Also; she is playing at the Prince Albert
in Brighton tomorrow night at 8-00 p.m.
Review of her new album 'Doghouse Rose' to follow in a few days.
29th June 2010 – Great news: A new promotions company emerges in Brighton & are
taking over the mantle of the late & much lamented ‘Gilded Palace of Sin’! They
are called ‘Drifter promotions’ & I am putting all of their forthcoming gigs on
my gig list. To say we all wish them luck is an understatement! I will try to
put a piece on here about the two young men who have formed the company as &
when time allows. (I have noted all of their gigs on the list with ‘Drifter’ in
brackets)
Also: A few changes (that may be temporary) have been made to the website in the
name of ‘experimentation’!
Will soon be uploading the first couple of chapters of ‘A History of the Blues’
(probably in the next couple of days)
24th June 2010 - Added today. The first & largest chapter in 'A history of the
Blues'. This lays out the dates & history of the African people that were sold
into slavery and invented the Blues and is interspersed with other historical
dates of varying significance, right up until the known start of recorded Blues.
The decades from 1920 onwards will follow in numerical order.
Also: Five brand new, recently published, c.d. reviews, unsurprisingly, in the
c.d review section plus a new sub-section with a couple of quickie reviews that
includes the amazing 'Crazy Mountain Billies'!
Finally: Last nights Seaside Hospital radio 'American Roots' playlist!
21st June 2010 - Added today: The 1000+ word review of the new Southern Tenant
Folk Union album 'The New Farming Scene' added today. An edited version will be
in the August edition of 'maverick'. Hoping to add several more new reviews this
week.
Also: What a great weekend of music at the 'Shoreham Folk Festival' at the
Bridge Hotel. Hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did. Excellent music,
decent weather, good company & last but not least good beer. What more can a
person need to get through these troubled times!
12th June 2010 - Hi all. More updates on http://americanroots.weebly.com
They are as follows: All 8 weeks of 'A history of American roots music' are now
complete. There is more to do with this in the future but the basic outline is
finished. Last wednesdays (9th June) 'American roots music' Seaside Hospital
Radio programme playlist is uploaded. Also: I have added the recent Po' Girl
live review.
As soon as I can I will also start uploading 'A history of the Blues' from my
old lecture notes!
3rd June 2010 - Last nights American Roots playlist just added. Next week it
will be a 2 hour programme! Also, Curst Sons feature added, although the page
doesn't seem to have loaded correctly.
Further investigation being carried out!
Hopefully will be adding Southern Tenant Folk Union feature later today or
tomorrow.
seems we have more snow to manouvre our way through! At least we can always rely
on excellent new music to cheer us all up!
Talking of new music; following last weeks excellent Drifter Promotions gig
starring Mark Olson, I've been listening to an album by his support artist Mark
Wynn entitled 'Backstreet ballads & assorted wrecks.' I've heard him compared to
the late great Townes Van Zandt and whilst this is an exageration, I can
actually see what is meant. There isn't time to review it in depth but he is a
really good singer, songwriter and banjo and guitar player and has that slightly
jaded Townes feel to his singing and songs. He is still young and given a chance
to develop may well go on to emulate Townes, hopefully with his musical talents
rather than lifestyle! Definitely a brilliant talent who will get better still!
ALSO:- Keep those album of the year lists coming but no more than 10 albums.
Contact can be made through the contacts page on this site or email to
americanrootsuk.com
12th December 2010 - I've just added a review of the debut album by 'Pappy'
entitled 'Pappy Time'. It is much better than you'd expect it to be with such a
stupid name!
Also:- I've recently been given a copy of the new Matthews Southern Comfort
album 'Kind of new', their first in 39 years! I was going to review it but to be
honest I couldn't be bothered to listen to the album more than once. Excellent
male & female vocals on an album that struck me as appalling MOR music! I never
review any album without listening to it at least a few times so there will be
no review of this one! It's a shame because I've always liked Ian Matthews, even
on some of his more bland offerings, but this one, if I went in for seasonal
cliches, would be labelled a 'turkey'!!!
7th December 2010 - Nearly at the end of the year so keep your albums of the
year lists coming! I would prefer that you just send in your top 10 albums. I
don't know what my 50th favourite album of the year is, so don't really think
that knowing yours helps me a lot!
I've just added a review of the new album by Texan singer songwriter Opie
Hendrix. I was not knocked out by it but there is potential there!
ALSO:- Some years ago I did some lecturing on the History of Americana music.
During one session I played a song called 'Another day on route 66' by Jerry
Merritt and the whole class was absolutely knocked out by it. Jerry was a
guitarist with Gene Vincent about 5 decades ago and has made few recordings
since. I've just managed to get hold of an album that compiles some of his
recordings but doesn't actually include the aforementioned song. Does anyone
have any information on Jerry or the song? I don't even know who wrote it or
when Jerry recorded it. The info. I had at the time indicated that it was
recorded in 1957 but I find this difficult to believe, due in the main to the
high quality of the recording. It is a great song and needs to be heard by as
many fans of 'Country' music as possible! Any information that anyone can give
me will be greatly appreciated and will be used in something I am currently
working on. I've just managed to add the song to the Seaside Hospital radio list
so I'm hoping to play it fairly regularly on my country music programme as well
as on 'American Roots.'
1st December 2010 - I've just uploaded a review of the superb new album by June
Star 'Lower your arms.'
I'm hoping to start a series on bands/solo artists that have the talent to
become stars but due to promotional constraints are not quite there yet! It will
consist of a short biography and brief reviews of all their albums. It will be
an occasional series and will start early in the new year (2011). You probably
won't be amazed to read that the first band will be June Star!
30th November 2010 - Where has the year gone. I seem to have mislaid about 6
months! Anyway, on to business! The more observant will notice there is an extra
page on
americanrootsuk.com entitled LOST HIGHWAY. It is self explanatory if you have
ever been to any of Claire Lloyds monthly promotions at the Brunswick. If you
haven't, have a look at the page. There is what should be an amzing gig this
Friday!
The page is still under development and will gradually be added to.
Also:- Don't forget if you want to send in a list of your 'Albums of the Year'
feel free to do so. I was just going to publish a top 10, but most of the ones
I've received so far have had 15 or 20 so will probably do a top 20 instead. The
deadline will be Christmas Eve and I will try to publish the list either the
following week or in the first week of 2011. A lot of the lists received so far
are very similar to mine, and there was me thinking I was the only person with
exquisite musical taste!
20th November 2010 - I've just found out that people check this page before
looking at anything on this site, so everytime I add something to the site I
will note it on this page as a news item, so here goes with the last week or so!
There have been five c.d reviews added in the last seven days, Wednesday nights
'American Roots' radio playlist plus the Recommended albums list has now been
extended with albums by individual artists.
In the next few days I'm hoping to add several more c.d reviews including the
incredible new album by June Star entitled 'Lower your arms'. There will also be
a belated live review of the Southern Tenant Folk Unions Crawley gig.
I will put a copy of the news message on facebook as well.
13th November 2010 - I've added a new page entitled 'Recommended Albums'. Pretty
self explanatory title really! I'm starting off with compilation albums from my
collection and will also gradually include single artist albums that I consider
worthy of adding to your collection! I'm not sure what the final layout of the
page will be (if indeed there is one) but it will just have to develop as we
go along!
More will be added in a few days.
11th November 2010 - I've just uploaded last nights 'American Roots' playlist.
It is so good I almost wish I could have just laid back & listened to it! It was
a 2 hour programme again this week so the list is quite long.
Also:- People keep asking me to recommend Roots albums from throughout the
decades of recording so I'm going to add a new page shortly. It will consist of
a list of what I consider essential albums. The first part of the list will be
compilations, but single artist albums will gradually be added as well. Rather
than wait until it is completed I will post it right from the start. If anyone
has any questions or ideas for further site improvements I'm always open to
suggestions!
Finally don't forget to submit your albums of the years using the contacts page.
A few have started coming in already. Should be a bit of fun anyway!
7th November 2010 - I've added a review of the brilliant new album by the Black
Twig Pickers 'Ironto Special'
3rd November 2010 - A friend recently mentioned to me that perhaps I should have
a top 10 albums vote at the end of the year. At first I thought it wouldn't work
but then thought why not? Consequently I've decided that any readers that want
to join in with the fun, if you send me your top 10 'American Roots' albums of
2010 I will publish it on a new page just before Christmas. I will also come up
with a top ten of my own and at a later date might try to sort something out for
an all time great list of albums! Try to keep the albums under the 'American
Roots' banner, which gives plenty of scope (i.e. Blues, Country, Alt. Country,
American Folk and quite a few more sub headings!) They can be new releases or re
releases, just as long as that release date was this year.
Either use the contact page on this site or email mikemorrison10@gmail.com
30th October 2010 - What a great last few days of music! On Wednesday night
there was the incomparable Otis Gibbs, really well supported by Will Burns (of
Treecreeper) on a Drifter promotions bill at the Prince Albert! Last night we
had a trip to the Hawth at Crawley to see the brilliant Southern Tenant Folk
Union. At the start of this year I thought they were finished when Pat McGarvey
lost virtually
the whole band, but he rebuilt with a bunch of excellent Edinburgh based
musicians and consequently are now at least as good as the original lineup and
with an excellent new and well reviewed album 'The new farming scene.' I will
hopefully be reviewing the gig in the next few days.
Roll on March 2011 when Drifter Promotions are putting them on at the Albert!
28th October 2010 - I've just uploaded a few photos of Danni Nicholls and Nick
Funke at this years 'Applefest' plus some from last nights excellent Otis
Gibbs/Will Burns gig at the Prince Albert, Brighton.
25th October 2010 - Today I've added a couple more reviews. One is of a book
'Yonder comes the Blues', the other is a review of Eric Claptons new album
'Clapton'.
Highlights of this week are likely to be Otis Gibbs at the Prince Albert,
Brighton, on Wednesday night. Then on Friday night at the Hawth, Crawley it's
the brilliant Southern Tenant Folk Union. Both are unmissable; easy to say when
you have tickets! (which I have!)
23rd October 2010 - I've added a live review of the Curst Sons brilliant
performance at the Brunswick, Hove a week ago!
Don't forget:- Tomorrow night at the Foundry, Brighton, Danni Nicholls hosts an
Americana evening. One of the artists playing is the brilliant Ben Rogers fresh
from his support slot at Thursday nights Luke Doucet gig. I'm hopeful of being
able to go! A performer has to be exceptional to make me even think of venturing
out on a Sunday night!
Plus! This coming Wednesday is a rare treat when Otis Gibbs will be playing at
the Prince Albert, Brighton. I've seen him several times and have vowed never to
miss him when he plays in Brighton. He really is that good!
22nd October 2010 - Just added a review of the brilliant new album by The Duke
and the King entiteld 'Long live the Duke and the King'. Several more reviews
will follow in the next few days including, hopefully, a couple of live ones.
Talking of live! An incredible talent was discovered last night at the Prince
Albert in Brighton. No, it wasn't Luke Doucet. The assemblage were already aware
of his prowess. The discovery was of Ben Rogers. He could, if given a decent
chance, turn out to be one of the best singer/songwriters for a generation. I
kid you not. He is that good. Add to the songwriting his deep expressive voice
and you have a sure fire winner if there is any justice left in this world! I'm
just listening to his almost impossible to find album 'Devil take the hindmost'
and it just oozes class. Perhaps i'll add a review of that soon. I can't imagine
why it's not on general release.
21st October 2010 - I've just completed my usual Thursday morning job of
uploading last nights Seaside Hospital radio playlist. It is certainly no less
diverse than usual!
Off to see Luke Doucet and ben Rogers at the Prince Albert, Brighton tonight!
Should be a great evening!
16th October 2010 - Back from a really good day at 'Applefest 2010'. Great to
see so many people having a good time with good food, good beer/cider/applejuice
and excellent music. The highlight by some distance was the lovely and talented
Danni Nicholls, added to which I finally met her in person! She played a
terrific set to a packed and spellbound marquee crowd, with her always excellent
music sidekick Nick Funke on double bass, mandolin and acoustic guitar.
Superstardom really must beckon soon!
The other weekend highlight (two in one weekend!) has to be the incredible
performance by the Curst Sons at the Brunswick, Hove, last night (Friday). I've
been going to their gigs for about ten years and am always in awe of their
incredible musical abilities. Some friends went for the first time last night
and were blown away by what they witnessed! (a review will follow in a few days)
13th October 2010 - It's been a while since the last news so I thought I'd add a
few snippets! I'll be uploading this weeks 'American Roots' playlist either
tomorrow or Friday. Talking of Friday, don't forget the Curst Sons are playing
at the Brunswick this Friday night. Should be a great evening! Also this weekend
there is the 'Applefest' at Middle Farm, near Lewes. It's a great family weekend
where you can eat and drink everything to do with apples plus a lot more
besides! There is lots of excellent music including Rory Mcleod, John Otway and
Mountain Fireworks Company amongst many others!
26th September 2010 - Just changed a few pictures. Added three album covers by
some of my favourite artists to the banner on the home page plus changed Frank
Fairfields photo for one of the Old Crow Medicine Show. Had to give them the
place of honour after their incredible performance in Brighton last week!!!
24th September 2010 - I've just uploaded the final chapter of 'A history of the
blues'. I hope that anyone that has read it has got something out of it. The
story was never meant to be definitive; just one thin thread through the history
of an incredible music genre. If anyone has any questions feel free to contact
me. I'm thinking of extending the whole of the blues story and also the
'Americana history' and doing larger pen pictures and more about the individual
albums.
I've also uploaded a review of the Dylan Leblanc album 'Paupers field' today.
Still recovering from the amazing performance put on by the Old Crow medicine
Show on Wednesday night and am really looking forward to seeing Eilen Jewell at
the Basement next Friday!
12th September 2010 - Just added chapter 10 of 'A history of the Blues' plus a
couple of c.d reviews. There is a quickie of the new stripped down disc by
Simone Felice in the short reviews section and a 4 year old Various Artists
compilation 'Strange Country' that's well worth a listen.
Just listening, for the second time today, to the new Robert Plant album 'Band
of Joy', and thinking wouldn't it be nice if the hype machine dealt in truth
rather than hype! Don't get me wrong, initially it sounds a good album, but
hardly 'defines country music for the 21st century!'
Ho hum; maybe it's just that I feel lousy physically as well as cynically!
10th September 2010 - This week I've been listening to new albums by Back Road
Baptists, The Molenes, Colin Gilmore, Old Man Luedecke, Justin Townes Earle,
Simone Felice & a 2006 Various Artists compilation called 'Strange Country'.
Will gradually post reviews of each.
Having a break from albums from 6-00 till 8-00 tonight by listening to
RadioReverb. The programme should appeal to anyone that actually reads this.
It's called 'Songs from the Ark' & it's live! As if that's not enough it's
presented by Del Day!
5th September 2010 - Another 'Drifter Promotions' triumph at the Prince Albert
last night. It started with the talented acoustic guitar duo of '-a+M',
continued with the highly unusual trio of 'Hamilton Yarns' and finally a short
but incredible set by Frank Fairfield. I can say with absolute certainty that I
have never seen his like before! Review to follow in a few days!
The following is a message I put on facebook yesterday and really should have
put on this site:-
If anyone knows any other local promoters of 'American Roots' music (other than
the already mentioned 'Drifter promotions')that would like to add their gigs to
my listings please tell them to contact me at mikemorrison10@gmail.com or
through this website. I won't include any venues larger than the Komedia and I
will have final say on what to include! The same applies to local bands,
soloists, etc. This site is taking a large number of hits now and although I
have no illusions of power, it might just get one or two more people interested!
The benefit I get will be that with larger crowds promoters are more likely to
keep promoting the gigs that I want to see and the music I love!
1st September 2010 - Will hopefully be adding the next chapter of 'A history of
the blues', plus tonights 'American Roots' playlist, plus a review of last
Thursdays Water Tower Bucket Boys incredible gig, all in the next couple of
days!
As an afterthought I'm currently listening to new albums by '17 Pygmies',
'Buzzard Hollow Boys' and 'Frank Fairfield'. All are excellent but as a brief
pre-review description, the first is a strange folksyish album! The second
covers a large area, from Dave Alvin type country to Western Swing to Blues! The
Frank Fairfield album is incredible 'old time/hillbilly'. He is to country what
Charlie Parr is to blues! Reviews to follow eventually!
Also listening to Imelda May and her take on roots/rockabilly.
30th August 2010 - This is not really news but I'm still not very happy with the
current template for this site. Over the next week or two the look may (or may
not!) change, depending on what other templates I can come up with. It just
seems there is so much wasted space at the sides, but other templates I've tried
have other drawbacks. If anyone has any feelings about, or suggestions for, feel
free to message me on facebook or email at mikemorrison10@gmail.com
When I manage to work out how to do it I will be setting up email addresses that
link to this website!
Have a good (so far, sunny) Bank Holiday!
28th August 2010 - A couple of extra features added today. The first is a gig
photos page, the second is video, most of which will come from youtube, but will
always have relevance to this site in as much as all clips will be of American
Roots artists.
25th August 2010 - A milestone (or is it millstone) day! This site is now
www.americanrootsuk.com
Hopefully I can gradually get a few professional bits and pieces working such as
video, sounds, etc.
13th August 2010 - Got my homepage back and just changed a few photos!
Also:- Added 5 new c.d reviews!
12th August 2010 - Anyone coming to this site direct, without seeing my post on
facebook, will notice that the home page is missing. Something went wrong when I
was doing some work and now I can't find it! I will be upgrading the site in a
couple of weeks so will probably make a new homepage then. I can't imagine it
will cause any inconvenience to anyone except me, but if it does, sorry!
5th August NEWS UPDATE:
Sorry to be the bearer of bad tidings but tonights gig at the Prince Albert is
cancelled due to Hannah-Lou being ill. The good news is that Drifter promotions
are trying to reschedule the gig.
05th August 2010 - As threatened; sorry, I mean as promised; I've uploaded
chapter 6 of 'A history of the blues' plus last nights playlist from the Seaside
Hospital Radio, 'American Roots' programme. Dave Field was heard to comment that
he enjoyed the Dock Boggs track, thus proving once and for all that he is a man
of exquisite taste!!! (There's that strange smell again Dave!)
Also:- Just in case I forgot to mention it yesterday (which, I didn't, ah well,
ho hum!) tonight at the Prince Albert in Brighton those nice people from Drifter
promotions (I must stop being so nice, I'm told it just doesn't suit me!) are
putting on not only the excellent Trevor Moss and Hannah-Lou but also
R.G.Morrison (no, he isn't me; he has talent; and no we're not related). A great
evening of music in prospect!
And yet another also:- Hopefully I'll be uploading at least another couple of
c.d reviews, sometime in the next few days.
04th August 2009 - This is not actually news for today but tomorrow I'll be
uploading tonights American Roots playlist plus chapter 6 in 'A History of the
Blues'
***Don't forget*** Tomorrow night at the Prince Albert, Brighton, there is a
double bill of excellent roots music. Trevor Moss & Hannah-Lou are headlining &
support is by the just as impressive R.G.Morrison (no relation, at least, as far
as I'm aware!) all courtesy of Drifter promotions!
31st July 2010 - Just added a couple of short c.d reviews in the 'Extra c.d
reviews' section plus a short book review, unsurprisingly, in 'Book reviews'! I
will probably, infrequently, add a few more book reviews, as and when I read
them!
I will also be adding the next chapter of 'A history of the blues' in the next
few days.
Also:- Don't forget the 'Bungalow Town 3' music festival is on at the Crown &
Anchor in Shoreham High Street today and tomorrow. I'm hoping to get there by
early evening to see 'Porchlight Smoker' (scheduled for 6-30 p.m.)
22nd July 2010 - Just added last nights Seaside Hospital radio 'American Roots'
playlist plus a couple of newly published c.d. reviews. One by Karen Elson & the
other by Yarn.
Also:- Don't forget, this Saturday at the Basement, Brighton, the amazing Diana
Jones is playing one of her very few British gigs.
19th July 2010- Don't forget, this coming Saturday at the Basement venue in
Brighton, the wonderful Diana Jones is playing.
Also:- I found out from a flyer that dropped through the letterbox over the
weekend that 'Bungalow Town 3', a local music festival takes place at the Crown
& Anchor pub in Shoreham High Street over the weekend Fridsay 30th July through
to Sunday 1st August. I haven't been able to locate a dedicated website but
there are many talented local musicians playing on all three days, including on
Saturday, the excellent Brighton based band 'Porchlight Smoker'. Things get
under way from 3-30 p.m on Friday, 3-00 on saturday & 2-00 on Sunday.
If interested & wanting more information try contacting the venue or at a pinch
I can tell you who is down to play
if you want to message or email me.
Finally:- A couple of c.d reviews plus one book review will be posted sometime
this week.
Just listening to a brilliant new album by Jacob Jones entitled 'Bound for
glory', which will probably be my album of the week on the 'American Roots,
Seaside Hospital radio prog. on Wednesday night.
16th July 2010 - New computer is up & working so have added Wednesday night's
'American Roots' playlist plus a couple of extra c.d. reviews plus chapter 4 of
'A history of the blues'.
Ian Siegal is at Ropetackle tonight & I almost certainly won't be!
Next Saturday Diana Jones is at the basement, Brighton & we will definitely be
there. She is a great old-time singer/songwriter in a similar way to Gillian
Welch.
14th July 2010 - After this piece of news there probably won't be any more
updates for 2-4 days. I'm expecting delivery of a new computer either tomorrow
or Friday, then when I've mastered it, business as usual and i'll be uploading
another chapter of 'A history of the blues' plus several c.d reviews.
Also, and more importantly! I've just realised that the amazing blues singer/
guitarist Ian Siegal is playing at the Ropetackle centre, Shoreham this Friday
16th. He has made 5 excellent albums and names Muddy Waters as his biggest
influence, although he also plays what might be termed 'Americana'. I highly
recommend him although I'm not sure if I can make it yet!
9th July 2010 - Just uploaded chapter 3 of 'A history of the Blues'
It's too hot to sit indoors listening to music so there will be a delay in
publishing the review of Sara Petite's new album! Talking of whom: What an
incredible gig she & her band 'the Sugar daddies' played at the Albert last
night. ...I'm always going on about country being edgy music & that nashvilles
version is country pap! (sorry, I mean pop!) If all country music had the
quality & edginess Of Sara & her band I'd have no complaints at all! She has a
lovely edgy twang to her voice, great personality, brilliant backing musicians &
is a perceptive, hugely talented songwriter. I'd better stop there because the
'Maverick' mag. wants a review so there will be a long delay in publishing it to
this site!
Next unmissable gig that I know of is Diana Jones at the Basement, Brighton on
July 24th. Another great country singer/songwriter but comes at it from more of
an 'old-time/hillbilly' angle. See you there!
8th July 2010 - Just uploaded last nights 'American roots' playlist. It may look
a bit disjointed musically but it actually did work (despite Ringo!)
In the next few days I'm hoping to upload the next chapter of 'A history of the
blues' plus a review of Sara Petite's great new album. (did I mention that she's
playing at the Prince Albert tonight? Yes, I think I did, so I won't bother
again)
7th July 2010 - Just added a short review of Sara petite's two years old album
'Lead the parade, to quickie reviews. Also; she is playing at the Prince Albert
in Brighton tomorrow night at 8-00 p.m.
Review of her new album 'Doghouse Rose' to follow in a few days.
29th June 2010 – Great news: A new promotions company emerges in Brighton & are
taking over the mantle of the late & much lamented ‘Gilded Palace of Sin’! They
are called ‘Drifter promotions’ & I am putting all of their forthcoming gigs on
my gig list. To say we all wish them luck is an understatement! I will try to
put a piece on here about the two young men who have formed the company as &
when time allows. (I have noted all of their gigs on the list with ‘Drifter’ in
brackets)
Also: A few changes (that may be temporary) have been made to the website in the
name of ‘experimentation’!
Will soon be uploading the first couple of chapters of ‘A History of the Blues’
(probably in the next couple of days)
24th June 2010 - Added today. The first & largest chapter in 'A history of the
Blues'. This lays out the dates & history of the African people that were sold
into slavery and invented the Blues and is interspersed with other historical
dates of varying significance, right up until the known start of recorded Blues.
The decades from 1920 onwards will follow in numerical order.
Also: Five brand new, recently published, c.d. reviews, unsurprisingly, in the
c.d review section plus a new sub-section with a couple of quickie reviews that
includes the amazing 'Crazy Mountain Billies'!
Finally: Last nights Seaside Hospital radio 'American Roots' playlist!
21st June 2010 - Added today: The 1000+ word review of the new Southern Tenant
Folk Union album 'The New Farming Scene' added today. An edited version will be
in the August edition of 'maverick'. Hoping to add several more new reviews this
week.
Also: What a great weekend of music at the 'Shoreham Folk Festival' at the
Bridge Hotel. Hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did. Excellent music,
decent weather, good company & last but not least good beer. What more can a
person need to get through these troubled times!
12th June 2010 - Hi all. More updates on http://americanroots.weebly.com
They are as follows: All 8 weeks of 'A history of American roots music' are now
complete. There is more to do with this in the future but the basic outline is
finished. Last wednesdays (9th June) 'American roots music' Seaside Hospital
Radio programme playlist is uploaded. Also: I have added the recent Po' Girl
live review.
As soon as I can I will also start uploading 'A history of the Blues' from my
old lecture notes!
3rd June 2010 - Last nights American Roots playlist just added. Next week it
will be a 2 hour programme! Also, Curst Sons feature added, although the page
doesn't seem to have loaded correctly.
Further investigation being carried out!
Hopefully will be adding Southern Tenant Folk Union feature later today or
tomorrow.