Well, it's NATIONAL MARGARITA DAY, so we thought that while you (like us) are relaxing (or chillaxing, as I'm told they say now) with our fave cocktail, we'd share a BUNCH of goodies that piled in on us the past few days. It's all really good and worth your while. So lick that rim (we're talking about salt---get your minds outta the gutter) and peruse:
---Roger Knox: Some FANTASTIC and in-depth pieces from places putting real effort and consideration into their praise for the album Stranger in My Country:
NoSurfMusic.com Here is a but a sample: "Stranger In My Land is a powerful collection full of pointed commentaries on the state of life for Australia’s Aborigines. Its true brilliance, however, is that these commentaries are presented in such an ear-pleasing manner, within songs that would be enjoyable no matter what their topic. And with a Shakespearean understanding for the timing of comic relief, there are moments of frivolity and nostalgia interspersed throughout, making it an even more entertaining experience. There’s no doubt that Roger Knox and the Pine Valley Cosmonauts’ Stranger In My Land is an important album, but it is also just a great listen that no fan of country music—no matter which hemisphere he or she calls home—should miss."
From the Weld for Birmingham: -“Roger Knox sings with the wisdom and fatalism of one who’s come through the fire. His yearning for “Dreamtime,” the Aboriginal state of grace, echoes back to Blind Willie Johnson and King David’s lyre, reminding us that real country music can come from any country...But the result is no stereotypical country album. Indeed, its eclectic and personable introduction to a hidden culture might well remind you of Buena Vista Social Club.”
and then an interview in the Uprooted Music Revue:
-“Stranger In My Land is sure to appeal to fans of Alan Lomax's field recordings, as well as to the contemporary folk and alt country fans who have an ear for music of the people by the people...This album is incredible, and I am overjoyed to share this man's musical history with you.”
It's an important record for us, and most entertaining as well, we hope you give it a chance.
In other Roger news, he will be appearing on the ABC Radio National show The Daily Planet in his native Australia. It 's next week sometime. Which might be last week here--we're still confused on how all that works. Anyway, HERE is the program listing
---Justin Townes Earle: Mountain Stage will be re-broadcasting his June 2012 performance begininng today. Go HERE for times and stations
---Murder By Death participated n a video interview with Pizza.fm in Champaign IL. Go HERE for a write of their show and some professional illustrations of the band.
---Bottle Rockets: A lengthy piece on Brian Henneman called, lovingly enough, "I'll Puke if That Jukebox Plays John Cougar One More Time," on his early days with Uncle Tupelo and the genesis of the Rockets. Pictures and song streams. Really interesting for you history buffs. Go to Adios Lounge for a peek.
Wayne Hancock: His new album Ride doesn't come out until Tuesday, but folks are already digging it. Here's OCanada.com's review, and then one from Slug Magazine.
Whew...now, to quote the great philosopher Jimmy Buffett, where IS that lost shaker of salt?
Bottle Rockets