Concert Review Archive
September 2024
August 2024
- Silverada make for a night of memorable music
- Langley does the best she can, and it's paying off
- Jerry Douglas Band lives up to their name
- The Secret Sisters still make great music
- Edmonton Folk Music Festival: continue expecting the unexpected
July 2024
- Strings loves his bluegrass
- Riccio, Palmyra continue the high
- On Newport day three, great music rings
- Newport Folk Fest has hot start
- Acuff does his own thing
- No Willie at Outlaw Music Festival, but Lukas, Dylan, Krauss + Plant make up for that
June 2024
- Top hasn't "gone country"; he is country
- Prine blazes his own trail
- Less may be more for Isbell, and that's just fine
- Wonder Women of Country live up to their name
- McBride delivers greatest hits, kind of
- Mattea shows she's a winner - despite the competition
- Messina shows you can go home again
May 2024
- Swindell shows off his bona fides
- Della Mae has a lot left in the tank
- The BoDeans hold up decades later
- Lee brings breath of fresh air
- Strange bedfellows - Lovett, Loeb - make for good night of music
- If this is what The Decemberists sound like on night two...
April 2024
- Nickel Creek, Nelson highlight MerleFest closing day
- MerleFest day 3: Fleck shines along with new acts
- MerleFest day 2: a day of musical discovery
- Old Crow, Tuttle, Steep Canyon Rangers, Tyminski launch MerleFest
- Presenting The 502s, the world's happiest band!
- Brothers Osborne add to life's certainities
- With Fulks, Scott, it's double the fun
- Robison, Fullbright, Kamel create wonderful musics
- Better than average Ferrell becomes truly memorable
March 2024
- Josiah and the Bonnevilles finds his stride
- A humble Barber better get used to acclaim
- Muldaur, Thompson bring the love - to old country songs
- Ramsey looks back to give hope to the future
- O'Donovan plays to "All My Friends"
- Lauderdale shows you can write songs and perform them
- Hurray for the Riff Raff still has a lot to say
- Lukas Nelson only gets better
- Nothing stops a memorable night of music from Stapleton
February 2024
- For Diaz, heady times are deserved
- A little bit of time goes a long way for Usrey
- Booth sticks to his roots
- Fulks: smart, sincere about his music and, oh yes, funny, too
- The Immediate Family's time to shine
- No showbiz from Crenshaw, Sobule, just a fantastic show
- Turnpike Troubadours, Jinks together? Bring them on
- Block celebrates and makes the best of it
- Wyatt has reason to "Feel Good"
January 2024
- Miller makes one beautiful noise
- Smith rides high
- Eagles say goodbye - for now
- Thankfully, Smith leaves nursing behind for music
- Bosko appears ready for take off
December 2023
- Through light, love and darkness, Nefesh Mountain shines
- McKenna brings along much needed extra cheer
- Hiss Golden Messenger brings the groove
- Isaak does it right
- Dawes gives a precious gift
- McBryde sticks with what she knows
- Morris stands strong
- No wonder, Russell engages, uplifts
- For The Lone Bellow, it's a happy anniversary
November 2023
- Hayes does it his way
- O'Donovan does The Boss
- Stewart rides high after tackling life's ups and downs
- For Raised Southern, blood wasn't enough
- Prine stands on his own two feet
- Slaughter Beach, Dog knows what it's doing
- White shows his musical personalites - all of them good
- Flores rides the wave in one great night
- Real deal Munsick keeps the country pledge
- No radio play for The Cadillac Three? No problem live
- For Cobb, the dream comes alive
- For Evans, the night could have lasted forever. Or at least even longer
- Lowe, Los Straitjackets stay on track
October 2023
- Cauthen has an up night
- Hiss Golden Messenger engages start to finish
- Marlowe may be a star in the making
- ZBB gives audience what it wants
- Cold, no cold, Griffin sounds wonderful
- The Red Clay Strays are mighty fine, whatever the genre
- Believe it...Nickel Creek gets better and better
- Moroney adds exclamation point
- Sweet, bittersweet...Oladukon makes it go down a bit easier
September 2023
- Tedeschi Trucks Band moves on
- Tedeschi Trucks party; Nelson opens in style
- Dickerson has his moments, just not enough of them
- Paisley, Doobies and lots more highlight Beachlife Ranch Fest
- Morris sparkles at Coastal Country Jam; McGraw less so
- Life is real good for the Eagles
- Cooke needs to deal with reality
August 2023
- My Morning Jacket creates a storm
- Rucker means it - "Have a Good Time"
- Whiskey Myers goes beyond a t-shirt
- Pandering aside, Wallen leads a fine night
- With Tuttle, Valerie June, Neilson, Aysanabee on hand, quality pervades Edmonton Folk Fest
- Greensky Bluegrass leads Edmonton Folk Music Festival, day two
- Kahan keeps it in-house
- Swift generously offers a satisfying night
- Adkins masters his obvious skills
July 2023
- Earle plays the lone troubadour role - particularty well - again
- Newport Folk Festival day 3: only the music was hot
- Newport Folk Festival day 1: a hot day weather-wise and musically
- Isbell gets better with age
- Strings has a party in Boston
- Munsick brings the joy and bright hope for country's future
- Wallen's songs work well any place
- Hank Jr. is ready for the country
- Attention well deserved for Tray Wellington Band
- First Aid Kit is thankfully on the road again
- Isbell fills show with highlight after highlight
- Rain doesn't stop Twain
- Twain plays the queen of everybody
- Oh well, Costello eschews nostalgia
June 2023
- Jewell successfully visits her other hometown
- Watkins Family highlights family values of the very best variety
- Country women - Arts, Clark, Weintraub - bring it
- Millsap delivers a satisfying night of music
- Godwin refuses to take a night off, fortunately
- There's always room for America
- For Valerie June, not fitting into a box works just fine
May 2023
- Double bill of Moore, McBryde add up to night to remember
- LeVox offers a real treat
- Swedish duo First Aid Kit show how American music is done
- Devine, The New Amsterdams pay homage to their pasts
- A heartfelt Smith is the real deal
- White makes sad songs sound so so good
- Parker soldiers on with new and old
April 2023
- Tucker, McCourys close out Merlefest in style
- Morris turns up star power at Merlefest with winning set
- Stagecoach sizzles musically (and weather-wise too)
- Weather be damned; The Avetts, Marcus King turn it up at a notch MerleFest
- MerleFest gets underway with Emmanuel, Little Feat
- Cleaves keeps it real
- Reba brings the warmth on a cold night
March 2023
- Fleet Foxes bring the glow
- Old 97's ages especially well
- For Andress, it doesn't get better than this
- Now if Seaforth could blaze their own path
- With vocals, showmanship, Underwood cheats no one
- HARDY provides undeniably good time
- Amador, Robinson, Ross all belong in a concert of equals
- Songs are there for Wade, but what about heart and soul?
February 2023
- Price has already "made it"
- Underwood rocks it
- Doleac, Springsteen go down easy
- Southside Johnny is still having a party
- Serious in song, Cash sends fans home smiling
- Opening night jitters for Rose? No way
- Nile goes on an "American Ride"
January 2023
- HARDY presents two separate but equal musical personalities
- Kyshona's music proves to be most therapeutic
- Scott, Bradbery, Scott, Whitters pull it off
December 2022
- Lake Street Dive rings out the old, new just right
- All the good times are gone? No way with Trampled by Turtles in the house
- Nefesh Mountain brings the musical warmth
- Los Lobos have something new to say - every night
- Fine singing + memorable sings = enjoyable Andrews concert
- Not your typical gig, but Cash, Tuttle display musical wares
November 2022
- Waldon stays true
- Flying solo, Hood does DBT justice
- The Lone Bellow makes joy palpable
- It all works for Marlowe
- DBT's Cooley offers songs his way
- Russell's hard won joy can never be taken away
- Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is forever young
- Townes may have it covered
October 2022
- LaMontagne is worth the wait
- Peer pressure be damned, Zeiders may just have made history
- Calexico goes beyond one trick pony status
- Musical chameleon Blount makes the past come alive
- Bryan stands on his (considerable) merits
- Outlaw or not, Nelsons still got it
September 2022
- LA shows Wallen the love
- Pardi decides on honest to goodness country
- Bryan shows why he's a bright light
- BeachLife Ranch Festival results in wonderful weekend
- King puts heart in trad country
- Rateliff and The Night Sweats bring the heat
- Brown: good for the future of country
- Urban's guitar ultimately proves too much of a good thing
- Stapleton even better on night two? Better believe it
August 2022
- Stapleton proves why he's one bright star
- With Taylor on home turf, a good time for fan and performer alike
- Old Dominion clubs it in a night of palpable joy
- Wetzel needs time to find himself
- Once again, great to have The Decemberists back
- The Wild Hearts Tour brings out the heart in Olsen, Van Etten, Baker
- American Aquarium is a band with purpose
- Wallen earned his time in spotlight
- Oh well. Rhett gives crowd what the want
- If Pardi, Wilson, Whitters are mainstream country's future, we're in good hands
- Fulks serves meat and potatoes
July 2022
- Newport Folk Festival day three: an unforgettable day for the ages
- Chesney debut (in a way) a solid success
- Day one: Newport Folk gets underway
- Allan goes home, for the first time
- Morris kicks some ass
- When it comes to diversity, Zoe + Cloyd are all good
- With Musgraves, Isbell, Willie in town, Palomino Fest brings adventure
- The Chicks still aren't ready to make nice
- Gilmore, Alvin: both timeless and timely
June 2022
- Just another unforgettable Carlile outing
- A subpar outing from Tuttle? Uh, no way
- Carpenter brings the backyard feeling
- Hiatt shows no signs of slowing down
- Lovett, Isaak: just damn good fun
- Lake Street Dive gets predictable - and that's a good thing
- Harris: clearly at her best
- Stapleton, Yoakam, Dirty Knobs combine for triple play
- Los Super Seven (or was that Los Lobos) turn in joyous sound
May 2022
- Wetzel, Montana rock it
- Church proves why faithful gather again
- Smith finds herself in a great spot
- Combs closes out Stagecoach day 3 on day of worthwhile music
- Harris transport MerleFest crowd - despite the downpour
April 2022
- Debuts rule on MerleFest day three
- Stagecoach day 2: Underwood with Axl, Brothers O top a stellar lineup
- Stagecoach day 1: Tucker stands out
- Palmer, Hull, Rowan shine at MerleFest day 2
- Scott, Marlowe bring the good times
- Turner kicks off MerleFest
- HARDY, Moon provide the good times
- Rod + Rose stand on own four feet just fine
- Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives live up to their name
- With Joseph, it's more than sisterly love
- Roughened sound underscores Shook's appeal
March 2022
- Lund makes country heroes proud
- America makes it special
- Russell shows the triumph of human nature
- With Houser, it's all worthwhile
February 2022
- Pope, Robinson bring great stories, stellar songs
- Isbell makes it count, so does Colvin
- With Black Country Revue, no ignoring Black artists any more
- Queen Reba is in the house
- Shelton plays the host to perfection
January 2022
December 2021
- Davis plays it loose
- Tritt provides cure for what ails traditionalists
- Combs makes it clear - he's happy to be "Doin' This"
November 2021
- Dawes plays to its strengths
- Strings becomes musical apostle for the ages
- Lukas Nelson needs to be heard
- Midland covers say it all
- Crockett, Walker show Music City ain't the only game in (country) town
October 2021
September 2021
- Table setters HARDY, Wilson shine ahead of Aldean
- Lady A consistently pleases
- Price plays musical chameleon
- Strings puts psychedelic light on bluegrass
August 2021
- Daniel brings Bakersfield with him
- Isbell offers master class
- Bentley hasn't forgotten how to host a lively party
July 2021
- Black Pumas go from "To Be Determined" to determined at Newport Folk
- No headlining gig for Rateliff, no matter at Newport Folk
- Russell makes her case at Newport Folk
- Strings, Yola shine on day 3 of Newport Folk
- Newport Folk Fest returns - Price, Ida Mae shine
- Black Pumas walk away with high marks
- For Midland, mission accomplished
- The Altar Billies make crowd glad to go along
- Alabama does it right
February 2021
- McBryde highlights CRS New Faces
- Rhett, Akins, Welling shine at CRS guitar pull
- Warner offers somethings old (Dan+Shay), somethings new (Munsick, Parker)
- McGraw maintains his lustre
- Ell figures it out
January 2021
December 2020
- With music from the heart, Avett Brothers end year on high note
- After a rocking start, going acoustic serves Gilbert well
- ZBB provides musical antidote
- Robison, Willis provide perfect antidote even if not weird
- Asleep at the Wheel keeps it merry 'yall
- The Mavericks continue living up to their name - even at Christmas
- Tuttle has more than found herself
- Williams brings the blues to Christmas
- Rice provides the necessary heat
- Yin/yang of Carlile only underscores her greatness
- Nefesh Mountain plays a different kind of holiday show
- Atypically, Evans trots out the hits
- Lynch, Maddie & Tae, Guyton give it up for farmers
- Rice refreshes with band in tow
- Morris showcases herself as vocalist
November 2020
- Jayhawks livestream may be better than the real thing
- Jayhawks livestream may be better than the real thing
March 2020
- Friedman showcases his usual, engaging self
- The Lil Smokies provide the perfect antidote
- White makes the case for himself, no matter how dark the music
- Rateliff comes out from the shadows
- Simpson satisfies, perplexes
- Brown leads the way on a different night
- The Travelin' McCourys learn their lessons really well
February 2020
- Life's good for Carll, Moorer
- Graves shows his sides
- Evans brings the cheer
- Lambert smiles, dances the night away
- For Brooks and fans, a most unusual change of pace
- LBT proves more than capable
January 2020
- Alaina finally blazes headlining path
- We Banjo 3 beaks down the barriers
- Gayle, Orlando provide good old-fashioned entertainment
- Lambert finds multiple gears
- With or without band, Isbell satisfies
- Grammy nominations aside, Yola, Kiah are the real deal
December 2019
- Deer Tick faces the music quite well
- The Suitcase Junket shows he has more than quirkiness going for him
- Rare, but most welcome, sighting of Crooked Still found
- Houser still has something to say
November 2019
- Rising Appalachia buck the mainsteam, and that's fine with them
- Bingham plays with something to prove
- For Knight, it all comes to the song, and they're not pretty
- Henry comes out the other end a better man
- What's in a name? Strings lives up to it
- Turner pleases the traditionalists
- Not much really changes for LaFarge
October 2019
- Cash, Cooder reimagine The Man in Black
- Seger (potentially) makes a huge mistake
- A different kind of night for Young
- Carlile takes her chances on feeling "Blue"
- The Head and the Heart go beyond the nah nahs
- Underwood keeps it world class
- Underwood leads a night of women in country
- Lovett remains near perfect
- The Paper Kites play it two ways
September 2019
- Keith stays true to mission
- For Kirke, going country may be a good thing
- Cobb deserves centerstage
- Forbert shows himself to be more than "Romeo's Tune"
- Combs, Gill, Harris, Crow comprise one final musical platter
- An AmericanaFest to remember
August 2019
- Jinks wins over fans, especially new ones
- Stapleton shows his traditional roots
- Fogerty lives up to his past
July 2019
- Robison, Willis maintain their musical integrity
- Newport Folk Fest offers something for everyone, but especially Our Native Daughters, Ondara
- The (High)women rule on day one of Newport Folk
- Brothers Osborne stand poised
- Carlile goes from excellent to memorable musical event
- Tuttle does well by coming home
- Kiah heats up
- Asleep at the Wheel keeps rolling
June 2019
May 2019
- Lack of stage polish, no problem for Goodnight Moonshine
- There's a lot to be said about The Felice Brothers
- Turner bring it on (to his second) home
- Sara Evans comes around again with Barker Family Band, and that's just fine
- White makes hurting sound real good
- Church has pretty good weekend in Steel City
- Some things never change, Della Mae remains badass
- Son Volt does it with music
April 2019
- Wilson shows her vintage self
- Morris presents study in contradiction
- Lowe stands the test of time
- Rich, Anderson, Denning pull it
- Griffin ethereal, Kelly heartfelt in gorgeous night of music
- McGraw leads the way at jam
- Tweedy makes the most of being busy
- There's no waiting for Lowland Hum
March 2019
- Skaggs reveals his true talent
- Morris leaves the fold
- With nods to Dylan, Ondara does not disappoint
- McLean shows far more than two good songs
- Three years late(r), wait for Dickinson and Sisters of the Strawberry Moon was worth it
- Guthrie brings welcome vibe of sweetness
- McConnell, fortunately, comes home
- Berklee celebrates decade of American roots
February 2019
- No surprise, these Berklee students can sing
- Shelton brings the grit
- No matter what you call it, The Cadillac Three are really good
- Alaina enjoys the difference
- Bentley brings the A-listers
- Lula Wiles is on the verge
- Musgraves comes off as tasty, but a tease (of sorts)
- For Church, music is indeed his mistress
January 2019
- Lynn comes off classy, yet rootsy
- Brothers Osborne provide the transport
- Earle remains welcome in Boston
- With help, Escovedo keeps creative juices flowing
- Old, new, it's all good for Platt & The Honeycutters
December 2018
- Lake Street Dive ends the year in style
- Who's to say that McKenna has reached her prime?
- Lane, Ramsey, Barrett cover their bases
- Mumford and Sons up to snuff, for the most part
- Finally back, Kodaline brings the optimism
November 2018
- Randy Rogers Band proves good songs, play go a long way
- Despite small crowd, Hood accomplishes mission
- Pistol Annies hit the targets
- Williams brings the joy back
- Tritt keeps real country alive
October 2018
- Kelly sounds ready for the long run
- Rhett proves forgettable
- Mattea ages well. Hits or not
- Turnpike Troubadours are winners
- The Killer lives on with Low Cut Connie
- Harris shows his musical badass side
- White sounds a lot better than he feels
- For The Jayhawks, it's the music first and foremost
- Wilson goes to Liner Notes
September 2018
- Bird should be everywhere
- "Sweetheart of the Rodeo" lives on with McGuinn, Hillman
- These Eagles keep songs alive and well
- Lovett could not have scripted it any better
- Lady A, Rucker overcome the elements
- McBride creates memories
- Keith leads the urban Tailgate Fest
August 2018
- Isbell, Mann deliver a best musical moment
- Aldean blazes away
- For Lady A, Rucker, music proves as perfect as the weather
- Chesney defies age
- With Stuart, Womack, tradition rules
- White brings the authenticity
- Stapleton places trust in power of song
- It's no wonder that 10 String Symphony stays busy
- No lead singer? No problem for The Earls of Leicester
July 2018
- At Newport Folk Festival, discovery rules
- Newport Folk Festival: Day one, lots of choices, lots of great music, especially Price
- Punch Brothers work, collectively
- Sweethearts of the Rodeo become page turner
- Timeless Eagles aren't the same
- Lots to like about McKenna (when you could hear her)
- Life gets good for Twain
- With Sugarland, the wait was worth it
- With Tuttle, the music's in good hands
- Carlile brings thoughtfulness
- Twain thrives on eye candy visuals, music
June 2018
- LSD tour provides a lot of highs
- Alvin, Gilmore fortunately get together
- Willis leaves crowd feeling anything but blue
May 2018
- Similarities abound for Cotter, Oliver the Crow
- Earle does it well all over again
- Stuart turns up the honky tonk
- Strange bedfellows be damned, Isbell, Thompson make it work no problem
- Trampled by Turtles overcome sad songs
- Rimes plays the artist reborn
- Calexico is its usually enjoyably diverse self
April 2018
- Price pays off
- Evans does one for the fans
- The Cactus Blossoms move beyond Everlys
- Johnson, Mike & the Moonpies show traditional country is alive and well
- Richey needn't chase any more
- Wall, Bird ultimately make a perfect match
- Low key works just fine for Cobb
- Rhythm N' Blooms Takes Root in Knoxville
- Bush provides reasons to celebrate
- Richey remains a treasure
March 2018
- Fortunately, Ortega refuses to throw in the towel
- Andrews earns the acclaim
- Womack planned a good night
- Cantrell continues to satisfy
February 2018
- Not only is Turner traditional, he's popular
- Family togetherness works for The Oh Hellos
- Lambert refuses to rest on laurels
- DBT rocks on
- First Aid Kit checks out just fine
- Earle still has a lot to say
- Rice turns up the volume
- Hull's musical experiment works
January 2018
- Justin Townes Earle finds comfort in the blues
- Isbell proves it in concert
- NewFound Road rights a wrong
- Greensky Bluegrass plays it right
- Paisley comes off as rusty, but right
- The Secret Sisters bring more than just pretty voices
- Escovedo wears his past quite well
- Music changes for Tyminski, but quality doesn't
December 2017
- Voice not quite intact, McKenna comes home again
- Carlile warms hearts with empathetic thoughts
- Daniels wears out bows, but music endures
November 2017
- Rawlings easily moves out of the shadow
- X keeps it fresh as an open wound
- Combs shows he has something to offer
- The Lone Bellow retain live power
- The Strumbellas master its formula
- Josh Abbott Band supplies antidote
- Blitzen Trapper seems built to last
October 2017
- Watson calls it like he hears it
- Wall learns his lessons well
- Giddens, Ward make for unique evening
- Langford's Four Lost Souls find themselves
- Blind Pilot remains unafraid
- Kristofferson gives insight, but no easy answers
- No sugarcoating, Welch dishes out an experience
September 2017
- Jennings, Wall, The Steel Woods impress at country fest
- Fulks shows why the fans keep coming back
- Outlaw likes it hot
- AmericanaFest stays ahead of the curve
- For Simpson, different isn't necessarily better
- Sun shines on Miami Valley 'grass fest
- Seger ages really well
- Florida Georgia Line party looks grim
- Musical fluidity pays off for Baiman
August 2017
- Bentley makes Thursday feel like Saturday
- Moorer, Lynne bring sunshine
- Nelson shows he's alive and well
- Crowell overcomes The Show That Almost Wasn't
- Earle maintains his value
- Paisley brings the magic
July 2017
- Forever young, Newport Folk seeks brighter days
- Newport Folk offers something for everyone
- Blackberry Smoke, The Cadillac Three rock it
- Yoakam soothes savage spirit
- McGraw, Hill keep it fresh and relevant
- Petty and the Heartbreakers get better with age
- Walker takes no prisoners
- Eagles finish well
- Tuttle shows she is on the "Rise"
- LaFarge throws back less, but all good
June 2017
- Isbell mines sounds exceedingly well
- Arroyo Seco brings worthwhile heat
- Alvins bring heart, soul, love
- Mellencamp flexes his creative muscles
- Elephant Revival becomes a headscratcher
- St. Paul, Shovels & Rope meet expectations, no matter who opened
- The Steel Wheels prove stylish
- With Moreland, the weekend must wait
- Henley remains a breed apart
- Williams goes his own way, for now
- Lady A looks good
May 2017
- Giddens captivates, engages
- Moakler does it his way
- Old 97s refuse to change
- Transatlantic Sessions translates well on this side
April 2017
- The Time Jumpers wear the crown well
- ZBB changes it up at MerleFest close
- Avett Brothers come home
- Turnpike Troubadours leave no doubt
- Stuart remains one cool cat
- Hurray for the Riff Raff changes - in some ways
- Adkins leaves grit, intensity behind
- Nightflyer soars
- Charisma be damned, don't sell Son Volt short
- Ballard moves in right direction
- Merritt shows there's more than heartache
March 2017
- Church creates memories
- Old 97s play for the ages
- Lane oversees her queendom
- Southern Ohio 'grass fest flies by
- The Surly Gentlemen prove anything but
- Dustbowl Revival leads just another typical night in Music City
- Isbell shines
- Randy Rogers Band takes the night as it comes
February 2017
- Stuart deserves the respect
- The Cadillac Three, Sellers do it their own way
- Folk Alliance binds past, present and future
- Great songs, not glitz, highlight Lynn tribute
- McBride soldiers on
- Lambert injects music as medicine
January 2017
- Jinks, Cauthen don't disappoint
- SUSTO's time could be now
- Crowell remains at top of game
- On Inauguration Day, Alvin unites all
- The Lumineers energize
- In crazy times, a little Williams joy endures
December 2016
November 2016
- Over the Rhine presents its version of holiday songs
- Perhaps not country, but Urban stars
- Loveless translates her sound well
- Swindell hits it
October 2016
- A year makes a big difference for The Strumbellas
- Girls With Guitars proves different this time
- For The Travlin' McCourys, Jeff Austin Band, the sum adds up
- Wishing for more McKenna
- Drive-By Truckers finds little to celebrate
- Weir comes through loud and clear
- Simpson rides the night out in style
- Parton remains pure & simple
September 2016
- Blitzen Trapper play it a little different
- AmericanaFest 2016: The Week In Review
- Just another Saturday night for Paisley
- Carpenter doesn't disappoint
- Henley goes his own way
- Jinks, Morgan make Outlaw Country sound pretty darn good
- Screams endure for Brooks
- Nelson remains tried and true, a good thing
- Bentley controls completely
- The Lumineers overcome
August 2016
July 2016
- The Jayhawks remain in top form
- Alabama Shakes, Elvis celebrate music
- Newport Folk Fest retains its beauty
- Hensley, Ickes have a good thing going
- Dixie Chicks age maybe even a little better
- The National Parks grow with age
June 2016
- Jarosz brings the cheer
- Outlaw lives up to his name
- White follows his muse
- Parton rings true
- Mudcrutch has a future
May 2016
- Ex-Brooklyn girl Michaela Anne makes good
- Hard Working Americans more than live up to moniker
- Wolf rolls on with ease
- Punch Brothers may go small, but so what?
- Fulks does exactly as he should
- Millsap shows complete package
- The Sheepdogs herd their influencs
April 2016
- On day 3, MerleFest opts for tradition
- On day 3, MerleFest opts for tradition
- Underwood leaves shallow shine at Stagecoach
- MerleFest showcases diversity on day two
- MerleFest opening night showcases new and familiar artists
- No joke, The Wacos return
- Jewel survives life's ups and downs
- AJ lives up to billing of tour name
- Decades later, Parker still has lots to say
- O'Donovan changes with time, voice doesn't
- Cash makes history and much more
- Stringdusters change it up in night of great music
March 2016
- For My Darling Clementine, size doesn't matter
- Watkins grows his craft
- Williams looks to the positive
- No apology needed for Griffin, Watkins, Mitchell
- No matter what he calls it, Green's pretty darn good
- Smaller makes no difference for Case
February 2016
- Brooks, fans enjoy the ride together
- Isbell rides high
- With Pug, Mandolin, sum is even better than parts
- Pope keeps his independence
- Folk Alliance Day 2: words and sounds
- Folk Alliance Day 3: power of music brings people together
- So it begins at Folk Alliance
- No joke, banjo man Pikelny excels
- Not playing the hit proves no problem for Bingham
January 2016
- Abbott brings the joy - even with "Front Row Seat"
- Alvin boys embrace music
- Clark just may be the next woman of country
- Watson finds his stride
- Pardi experiences ups and downs, Brothers Osborne don't
December 2015
- McKenna shows you can go home yet again
- Old Dominion writes the songs, too
- Nichols doles out presents
- Swindell stages his own House party
- Avetts maintain energy
November 2015
- For McCoury, Grisman, music still matters
- Ely wears well
- With Stapleton, it's the man and his music that counts
- Moreland is depressingly really good
- Whatever you call The Turnpike Troubadours were all good
- Infamous Stringdusters discover where the music goes
October 2015
- Harris, Crowell resonate
- Avett Brothers stay humble
- Blitzen Trapper stands on its own
- Fulk's grass is green enough
- No matter how you label Steep Canyon Rangers, they're all good
- Carlile reaps the rewards
- No surprise about Maddie & Tae
- Corb Lund finally returns
September 2015
- Time makes a difference for Striking Matches
- Home Free sings out
- Home Free sings out
- AmericanaFest: just music
- NGDB's circle remains unbroken
- Lauderdale states his case
August 2015
- Queen Taylor wears her crown well
- Hoge happy on his own terms
- Mandolin Orange commands the room
- Delta Spirit stands on its own
- Chambers fails to live up to "Bittersweet"
- Mandell counts for a lot
- Rucker brings true southern style
July 2015
June 2015
- Womack sings "real country music"
- Wait at LakeShake for Paisley proves worth it
- Depressing songs, but Moreland rides on
- Mumford & Sons go "Wilder"
- All good for Della Mae, no matter what style
- Swift shows you can go home again
- Calexico makes gig intact
- The Black Lillies ready for their close up
- For The Mike + Ruthy Band, show is no gimmick
May 2015
- Della Mae gives all
- Rain can't stop party led by A Thousand Horses, The Cadillac Three
- Long wait ends for The SteelDrivers, fortunately
- Making perfect sense of Striking Matches, The Secret Sisters
- For Spirit Family Reunion, the show eventually must go on
- Whitehorse changes gears
- Morlix overcomes album covers
- At Shaky Boots day 2, soggy weather doesn't dampen music
- Shaky Boots launches
- For Martina McBride, it's one of those nights
- Miller enjoys life of "The Traveler"
- Lynne launches tour in two parts
- For The Wailin' Jennys, the road provides antidote
- Lord Huron makes darkness sound good
April 2015
- Church is in session
- MerleFest Day 4: fest closes with everything from hymns to honky tonk
- MerleFest Day 3: it's homecoming day
- MerleFest: the new generation arrives
- Diversity rules at MerleFest
- Yet again, Hurray for the Riff Raff feels no absence
- Long wait ends for Kitty, Daisy & Lewis
- Mellencamp overcomes conundrum
- Isakov makes the dumps sound good
March 2015
- Gibson Brothers join "Brotherhood" in style
- Moorer, Gauthier pull for each other
- Brothers Alvin stage lovefest
- Lindsay Lou & the Flatbellys get ready for more miles
- Locust Honey String Band can go home
- Punch Brothers play it precise
- Avetts keep working
- The Earls of Leicester mesh it up
- Watkins steps out on his own
February 2015
- No surprise, Jackson and friends still Keepin' It Country
- The Mavericks scorch the night
- Wy rocks the house
- For The Lone Bellow, no opening night jitters
- Bluegrass, Keen do go together
- Chicks plus one cool dude with picks make songs stand out
January 2015
- Church grows with time
- Brooks fires it up
- Reverend Horton Heat makes it look easy
- Shovels & Rope just playing for more people
- Sandy Beaches Cruise 2015: Making waves wasn't the only thing that made the boat rock
- Watson remains the real deal
- Weather, Patriots can't keep The Devil Makes Three down
December 2014
- No arguing, years end great for Johnnyswim
- Lowe gets on with tour
- Romano makes sad songs sound good
- Thorn takes crowd with him
- With The Sacred Shakers, church is in
November 2014
October 2014
- Washburn, Fleck give reasons to be happy
- For The Jayhawks, no reissues needed
- Church works it from the outside
- For Doug Seegers, no pinching needed
- Cynics be damned, Carter girl endures
- Awkwardness rules for Hayes
September 2014
- No wonder life is good for Shovels & Rope
- Americana fest moves beyond borders
- Trampled by Turtles leads stellar night
- Goodnight, Texas gets on the map
- Lambert enjoys good times
- Bridges makes successful diversion
August 2014
- Buffett stages ultimate summer party
- It's closing time for Philly Folk with Wainwright, Steep Canyon Rangers
- Yes, Town Mountain is "really good"
- Philly Folk brings big tent approach
- Glass remains half full at Philly FF
- Keith goes big
July 2014
- Imelda May is more than a rockabilly filly
- With Staples, Newport Folk Festival overcomes
- With Aldean, lightng (and volume) strike
- Variety rules day one of Newport Folk Festival
- Puss n Boots has a lot to live up to
- Fogerty lives up to his past
- With Turnpike Troubadours, there's lots of good reason
- Alvin Brothers mean it
- Paisley creates memories
- Flemons wears his title well
June 2014
- Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds make it a family affair
- John Doe survives on his own
- Nelson, Krauss, Musgraves make for a night of singular music
- Renaissance woman Griffin shows musical diversity; Millsap scores in debut
- Willis, Robison prove to be a most pleasant anomaly
- Haggard keeps it tight
- McGraw shows he's far from old school
- The Old 97's are "very very good"
May 2014
- It's all relative for The Howlin' Brothers
- Chatham County Line celebrates life on a tightrope
- Paisley goes local
- The Mavericks go back in time
- Hayes goes for world record
- Crowell tells the truth
- For Nickel Creek, The Secret Sisters, long wait is fortunately history
April 2014
- Things change for The Milk Carton Kids
- The Hag closes MerleFest in style
- For The Waybacks, it's deja vu all over again at MerleFest
- SCR rules bluegrass Saturday night at MerleFest
- Old Crow, Williams get head start
- Snider keeps good times coming at MerleFest
- And they're off at MerleFest
- Fulks ages quite well, thank you
- 19 years later, Harris returns with "Wrecking Ball"
- Hurray for the Riff: more than just a great name
March 2014
- Carolina Chocolate Drops easily weather changes
- The Infamous Stringdusters march on
- Gill, Grant work their magic
- Beauty of The Henry Girls starts with harmonies
- Rhett parties on, but leaves you wondering
- The Avett Brothers make the leap
- Punch Brothers are so good
- All for the Hall: thanks to Harris, Gill, no ordinary guitar pull
- Lone Star Staters fortunately go beyond state lines
February 2014
January 2014
- The Deadly Gentlemen have a Ball!
- For Niemann, Campbell, Lynch, Nichols, not being normal works just fine
- Stuart gets uncivilized
- Farm, weather be damned, Miller plays on
- Shires talks and talks and even plays music
December 2013
November 2013
- For The Lone Bellow, familiarity breeds even more success
- Foster, Smith finally join forces, fortunately
October 2013
- Crows brings the guitar
- Indie life isn't easy, but Lindi Ortega sure makes it sound good
- Over the Rhine spread the love about Ohio
- Reckless Kelly wears its musical skin well
- No problem as Carpenter, Colvin leave bands home
September 2013
- Joe Nichols works hard
- Life is very good for Sarah Jarosz
- Urban scorches
- Well-oiled Daniels machine delivers
August 2013
- Summer escape continues with/for Buffett
- No matter, Kim Richey doesn't get the message
- Zac Brown Band provides perfect summer soundscape
- Willie shares his favorite things
- Shelton drinks and sings as promised
July 2013
- Chesney knows how to throw a party
- For Pokey LaFarge, it's not just a matter of luck
- The Eagles continue making history
- Lambert, Moore hit home run
- Cleaves makes visit home most welcome
June 2013
- Harris, Crowell battle She & Him
- Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2013: day 4 - bidding farewell
- Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2013: day 3 - witnessing the power and the glory
- Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2013: on day 2, a surprise band emerges
- Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2013: the fun starts
- Music City goes (Boston) Pop(s)
- O'Donovan goes home
- For Dave Alvin, Thursday feels like Friday
- Della Mae tours Cambridge (sic)
- Paisley showcases the goods
May 2013
- For The Howlin' Brothers, it's all relative
- Size doesn't matter to Winslow-King
- McGraw has plenty of fight left
- Steve Earle doesn't rest (on laurels)
April 2013
- Rain doesn't slow Avetts, Merritt
- The Howlin' Brothers leave the radar behind
- ZBB, Charley Pride lead third day charge at Stagecoach
- Another busy day at Merlefest for Nitty Gritty, The Waybacks, Murphey
- Keith, Ellis raise the cup at Stagecoach, Day One
- McCoury, Preservation Hall join forces
- Merlfest starts kicking into gear
- And Merlefest gets started with Charlie Daniels Band headlining
- Make no mistake, The Milk Carton Kids are more than funny
- Holly Williams mines family tradition and strikes gold
- The Lone Bellow, Twin Forks prove cathartic in the wake of tragedy
- The Mavericks don't know mellow
- Old Man Luedecke keeps his head on straight
- In Vegas, the temp is hotter than the music
- Lori McKenna does more than write the songs
March 2013
- Harris, Crowell, Thompson satisfy, but...
- For Drive-By Truckers, band ethos rules
- The Old 97's chug along
- With cat Lemmy away, mice still play
- Lambert, Bentley, Brice save the best for last
- Who knows Ryan Bingham?
February 2013
- Hancock, Kirchen share magic
- The great week that was for Little Big Town
- On Valentine's Day, crowd loves Willis, Robison
- The Lone Bellow, a misnomer
- Blackberry Smoke stakes its own path (with a little help)
- Campbell keeps the tradition going
- Cruise stacks the decks with bluegrass
January 2013
- Chris Young enjoys atypical night
- Miller, Thompson serve up tasty lunch fare
- JP Harris ought to keep calling
- Freakwater tours behind 20-year-old disc without the ka-ching
- McBride gets intimate
December 2012
- The two sides of Jamey Johnson
- Martina McBride proves incomparable
- Tony Furtado plies his skills
- For Jason Isbell, the wait was worth it
- Conor Obsert scratches surface
- For Graham Parker & The Rumour, the wait was worth it
- Advice to Kelly Hogan: stop standing in the shadows
November 2012
October 2012
- Social Distortion ages well
- For Martina McBride, a night to remember
- Crowell doesn't rest on laurels
- For Tift Merritt, some things remain the same (and that's a good thing)
- Welcome back Leftover Salmon
September 2012
August 2012
- Vince Gill refreshes classic country
- Toby Keith leads the party
- Old Crow serves good meds
- Mumford and Sons - most fun gig ever?
July 2012
- Underwood with songwriters give night to remember
- Newport Folk Festival wraps with Browne
- Scotty McCreery shows he's more than Idol
June 2012
May 2012
April 2012
- MerleFest Day 4: Faith and Friends define Sunday at MerleFest
- MerleFest Day 2, Part 2: Friday night with New Grass, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Los Lobos
- MerleFest Day 3: And the Hillside Album is...
- MerleFest Day 2: Steep Canyon Rangers, Tara Nevins, Doc lead charge
- MerleFest gets underway
- Merlefest kicks into gear
- Trampled by Turtles merge musical personalities
- First Aid Kit cures all
March 2012
February 2012
- The roll continues for Shelton, deservedly so
- Kathleen Edwards shows she's hard to top
- King George draws with Queen Martina
- Craig Campbell plays country music, in case you didn't know
- Dierks Bentley feels at "home" in concert
January 2012
December 2011
- Elliott Murphy continues rocking
- Noam Pikelny's experiment proves most successful
- Welch treats Boston
- David Nail isn't dreaming, he's in Beantown
- John Doe remains at home
November 2011
- No pandering needed for Drive-By Truckers
- Trampled by Turtles does something right
- Reckless Kelly channels Earle for satisfying night
- Good songs on an imperfect night for Hayes Carll
October 2011
September 2011
- Weather changes for LaMontagne, but quality doesn't
- The Wronglers with Gilmore: a fun night of old music
- Ho hum, another great Vince Gill gig
August 2011
- Chesney leads a show you don't hear every day
- It's no miracle, Carpenter ages well
- Road warrior makes the case for new material
- Tift Merritt understandably likes museum
July 2011
- Looking behind, Newport Folk Festival also looks ahead
- Alison Krauss leaves no choice
- Legal hassles aside, McGraw is at top of game
- Larkin Poe shows there's life after band split
- Kasey Chambers creates huge problem
- Jolie Holland suffers opening night mishaps
June 2011
- Swift juggernaut shifts into high gear
- Willie Nelson throws it down
- Dave Alvin celebrates early
- Damn the weather, LaMontagne proves more powerful
May 2011
- Thile, Daves don't rest
- Laura Cantrell answers where she's been
- For Fred Eaglesmith, a little less talk and a lot more songs would do
- The Civil Wars move up
- Steel Magnolia can duet
- At Stagecoach Sunday, ladies rule
March 2011
- Professor Mattea is in
- The song remains about the same for Lucinda Williams
- With Middle Brother, Deer Tick, Dawes, throw away the score card
February 2011
- Berklee students cover the Great American Songbook of Nashville
- Wanda Jackson suffers mightily
- The Civil Wars come out of nowhere
- Time makes a difference for Neko Case
January 2011
December 2010
November 2010
- Sunny Sweeney, Josh Kelley play different faces of country
- Peter Rowan lives off "Legacy"
- Jewell stands out in a crowd
- Social Distortion goes soft (not)
October 2010
- Terri Clark travels light
- Stone River Boys use experience to their advantage
- Paul Thorn tells all
- Treats keep coming from Raul Malo
- Avett Brothers turn in yet another high energy gig
- Kim Richey remains really really good
- Wanda Jackson throws a party
September 2010
August 2010
- Buffett creates nirvana
- Cherryholmes comes together
- Ray LaMontagne demands attention
- Phosphorescent closes out in style
- Avetts, Swell Season, Sharpe lead Newport Folk charge
July 2010
- Prestwood delights in annual summer gig
- Tyson, Russell, Lund spearhead Calgary Folk Fest
- Belleville Outfit does it the old-fashioned way
June 2010
- Carpenter returns to form
- After this night, Elizabeth Cook has no excuses
- Tift Merritt keeps (small) crowd very happy
- Country Throwdown realizes hits and misses
- Griffin raises the stakes (most of the time)
- Tim McGraw connects
May 2010
April 2010
- Dreams continue for Vince Gill
- Stagecoach: with acts like the Hag, you can't go wrong
- Renaissance man Elvis Costello shows his country roots
- Jakob Dylan shows he's up to the task
- Taylor Swift plays leader of the band
- Wilco in concert: long on songs, quality
- Roger Creager shows he's more than about beer, trucks
March 2010
February 2010
- Paisley still satisfies
- Eric Church works hard for the choir
- Sam Baker, Gurf Morlix freeze butts off, exceeding expectations
- With Madison Violet, the wait was worth it
- Doug and Telisha Williams make long ride home a lot easier
- Those Darlins stand up on own terms
January 2010
- McBride, Adkins shine sometimes
- Eilen Jewell wears her musical hats well
- Rodriguez, Sollee: unusual pairing meshes
- Dale Watson bears the standard
December 2009
- Lori McKenna brings the good cheer
- Mark O'Connor holds down the fort
- Jonathan Coulton loves the geek culture
November 2009
October 2009
- Not the same old Avett Brothers, and that's okay
- With Krauss, Fleck aboard, Rounder celebrates 40th
- No joke, Steve Martin can play bluegrass
- Richey, Kimbrough dig deep
- Brad Paisley appears right at home
September 2009
- Ashley Monroe rules Ten From Tenn.
- No charisma equals no problem for Son Volt
- Sweetback Sisters play for keeps
August 2009
- Modern country sounds of Urban, Sugarland don't feel like pain at all
- Helm's actions speaks louder than Black Crowes
- With Jimmy Buffett, the fun starts in the parking lot
- George Strait: less talk, more action
- Big Surprise is no surprise - Old Crow et al sound just fine
- Folk Festival 50 celebrates old and new
July 2009
- Dylan, Mellencamp, Nelson score on minor league tour
- Dave Alvin and Guilty Women convicted of great night of music
- Casey Donahew Band rocks Big Texas
- Hoots and Hellmouth kick it up big time
- Maia Sharp proves more than just a songwriter
- Amy Speace turns downers into upbeat show
- Summertown Road proves to be a work in progress with musical chops
June 2009
- Paul Thorn: doing it his own way isn't so bad
- Kid Rock simply entertains
- Despite rain, the CMA Fest show must go on (eventually)
- The Devil Makes Three push bluegrass envelope
- Jenny Lewis forges ahead
- L.A. Acoustic Music Festival satisfies
- Strait throws a housewarming party in Big D
- Small crowd for Jessica Lea Mayfield? So what?
May 2009
- Gary Allan rings true
- Jamey Johnson does it his way
- Bearfoot: just your typical Alaskan bluegrass band
- Doe, The Sadies, Borges bring the fun
- Chesney: many hits, few surprises
April 2009
- The Greencards push "Fascination"
- Ponderosa Stomp makes for glorious party
- Dale Watson, Knitters, Lauderdale provide music to die for
- Reba, Paisley deliver one-two punch at Stagecoach
- Urban, Big Kenny, Hill, Bentley support Nashville4Africa
- Songwriters Mindy Smith, Karyn Rochelle, Sarah Siskind, Josh Kear "Shine"
- Kix Brooks and the Hit Men storm Tin Pan South
March 2009
- Graham Parker soldiers on
- Brooks & Dunn rock Rodeo in short set
- Crooked Still comes home again
- Daley & Vincent leave stable jobs behind
February 2009
- For Blitzen Trapper, the musical potpourri works
- Three Girls carry on without their Buddy
- Osborne, Williams, Sizemore help Joe Val Fest shine
- Corey Smith delivers enthusiastically in Texas
- Gill, Morgan, Lawrence, Diffie come out for ill musician
- Gill eats it up
January 2009
December 2008
- Roger Creager throws post-Christmas party, Texas-style
- Lori McKenna brings it on home
- Hit singles do wonders for Luke Bryan
November 2008
October 2008
- Alan Jackson brings the good times
- Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt have something new to say
- Bruce Robison leaves Texas to play his songs
- SCOTS grease up the gig
- Old 97's, Charlie Louvin live up to billing
- Carolina Chocolate Drops move beyond being unique
- Dailey & Vincent, Vince Gill triumph
September 2008
- Grand Ole Opry celebrates bluegrass legends McCoury, Lawson and legends-to-be
- SteelDrivers make IBMA crowd yell for more
- Music of Chris Thile, Edgar Meyer speaks volumes
- Brad Paisley sticks to his country guns
- Old Crow Medicine Show appears ready
- The hip Glen Campbell reclaims stage
- Blind Alfred Reed gets concert tribute treatment
- Carlene Carter holds it together by getting "Stronger"
- Jason & The Scorchers give it back
- Kasey Chambers brings it on home
- Levon Helm Ramble works, for the most part
- The SteelDrivers play great at late hour
- Jerry Douglas keeps his word with a little help from his friends
- John Prine sounds just fine
- Graham Parker mines the past
- Bluegrass smokes for Larry Cordle, Infamous Stringdusters, Cadillac Sky
- John Anderson: one of the last great country music stylists
August 2008
- Randy Owen leaves Alabama behind
- Aaron Watson, Sunny Sweeney put tradition first
- Tift Merritt proves satisfying, warm, heartfelt
- JImmy Buffett, Avetts, Gillian Welch, Levon Helm spice up Newport Folk
- Baltimore honky tonker Arty Hill acquits himself
July 2008
- Infamous Stringdusters succeed on own terms
- Ricky Skaggs draws from new and old
- Crooked Still comes home again
- A night of challenges, a night of success for John Mellencamp, Lucinda Williams
- Chatham County Line, Crooked Still & The Infamous Stringdusters display fresh voices
- With Rhonda Vincent, IIIrd Tyme out, Daly & Vincent, doesn't getter than that
- The "Real Animal" comes out with Escovedo live
June 2008
- Travis Tritt rocks on and on
- Bean Blossom Bluegrass Fest goes strong 8 days
- The SteelDrivers put groove in their grass
- Jimmy Buffett brings the party to the Big Apple
- Dwight Yoakam returns to CMA fest with style
- Kenny Chesney validates superstar status in SF debut
- Alan Jackson, Kenny Rogers, Trace and Rodney Atkins top night three
- Urban, Hill, Underwood, Lambert top CMA fest show
- Alison Krauss, Robert Plant make magic
- Swift, Sugarland, Jewel kick off CMA Fest
April 2008
- Hayes Carll delivers whiskey-soaked stories and finely-picked front-porch songs
- Kathleen Edwards Hogtown homecoming filled with politics, poetry and passion
- Justin Townes Earl, Felice Brothers pairing makes for memorable music
- Folk club provides no barriers for Chatham County Line
- Kathy Mattea sells "Coal" in concert
- Broken foot doesn't slow down Josh Turner at Tin Pan South
- No matter the style, Alejandro Escovedo proves versatile
- Jedd Hughes, Sarah Buxton turn writer's round into jam session
- The song's the thing for writers Brett James, Stephony Smith, Shelly Fairchild, Richie Supa,
- Gary Louris picks up in wake of The Jayhawks
- Vince Gill, Karyn Rochelle prove it all begins with a song...and a great vocal
March 2008
- Carrie Underwood: great country concert? Sometimes
- Dan Tyminski makes the best of time off
- Trisha Yearwood belts out songs old and new
- Bruce Robison, Troy Jones, Rodney Clawson perform the hits
February 2008
- Avett Brothers start 2008 where they left off
- Blue Rodeo shows its relevance
- SteelDrivers, Seldom Scene, Steep Canyon Rangers make for a hot February night of bluegrass
- John Hiatt and Lyle Lovett play for the sake of the song
January 2008
- George Strait, Josh Turner, Sarah Johns stay traditional
- For Harris, Colvin, Griffin, it's a girl's night out with Buddy
December 2007
- Lori McKenna shines solo
- Lori McKenna and friends pull it off
- Keith Urban shows he's the king of country/rock
- Road warrior Eric Church proves why
- Dierks Bentley goes free and easy towards the top
- Raul Malo spread the holiday cheer
- IIIrd Tyme Out still shows it has much to offer
- Marty Stuart and Del McCoury blow off steam
November 2007
October 2007
- Mary Gauthier goes back home
- Eric Church rocks hard with his country
- Reinvention continues for Steve Earle, satisfying fans
- Roadhouse rocks with Tippin, Chesnutt, Diffie, but not for long
September 2007
August 2007
- Pat Green: all about having a good time
- Ray Wylie Hubbard proves wholly engaging
- Blake Shelton shines
July 2007
- The stellar talent of Patty Griffin shines
- Billy Joe Shaver gets better with age
- James Hand set his music free
- Richie Furay, Chris Hillman-Herb Pedersen trot out the hits, still sound good
- Kelly Willis can't ask for a better night
- Marty Stuart surprises, going solo
- The Greencards bring it live, so does Carrie Rodriguez
- The Gourds nobly carry on
- McGraw, Hill create sparks, sometimes
- Willie brings his picnic north to Washington, yup, Washington
June 2007
- Brad Paisley closes up CMA Music Feset
- Carrie Underwood steals the show
- CMA Music Fest, day one: Reba returns with a roar
May 2007
- Mountain Stage comes to Beantown
- Coachella with a twang underscores Stagecoach festival
- Todd Snider feels at home
- The Knitters out for a night of fun
April 2007
- Rhonda Vincent overcomes lack of twin fiddles for stellar show
- Son Volt plays it steady, while Jason Isbell proves sturdy
- Gretchen Wilson blends rock, honky-tonk at rodeo show
March 2007
- Lucinda Williams rides high, most of the time
- Vince Gill goes down real easy
- The Shins deserve the acclaim, mainly
- Uncle Earl lets the good vibe out
- Nanci Griffith brings elegance to an evening of warm music
- John Cowan refuses to mail in performance
February 2007
January 2007
- With Dave Alvin opening, it's headliner beware for James McMurtry
- The Gourds fans eat them up
- The Grascals, Bradley Walker ride high
December 2006
- Little Big Town leaves the boondocks behind
- Alejandro Escovedo strings crowd along quite well
- Calexico stays in tune with its art
November 2006
- Dixie Chicks focus on the music
- Tom Russell, Gretchen Peters make for tough acts to follow
- Orbison tribute falls short
- Shooter Jennings puts his own tattoo on music
October 2006
- Ralph Stanley spreads it out
- Randy Travis ages well
- Vince Gill's productivity speaks volumes in concert
- Haggard turns back the clock
- The Wailin Jennys make their mark
September 2006
- Keith throws a party, while Nichols keeps it country
- Split Lip Rayfield provides a memorable farewell
- Golden Smog carries on without Tweedy
- Songs carry The Wreckers
- Walnut Valley Festival gets magical
- Rascal Flatts goes down easy
- Pat Green makes fans feel good
August 2006
- Odd pairing of Nugent, Hand make for fine music
- Alvin, DBT highlight music fest
- Steep Canyon Rangers refuse to mail it in
- Robert Earl Keen transforms club into rowdy dancehall
July 2006
- Handsome or not, The Handsome Family makes solid music
- Kenny Chesney pours out the energy in concert
April 2006
March 2006
- Rhett Akins, Jamey Johnson put on their Southern fried spin
- Hank III, Stuart, McMurtry, Foster set the Americana stage
- Kris Kristofferson captains an earnest voyage
- Surprise! Kristofferson, Colter, Friends of Dean Martinez kick off SXS
- Redneck Gretchen Wilson should stay country
- Van Morrison refuses to live in the past
February 2006
January 2006
- George Strait remains tried and true
- BR549 survives the dog days to come back strong in concert
- Kenny Rogers gives the people what they want
November 2005
- King Wilkie is no fluke
- Shooter Jennings escapes the shadow
- Life is good for Old School Freight Train
- Hank III wears the burden well
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
- Uncle Earl is the complete package
- Jimmie Dale Gilmore perseveres in unusual concert
- Kenny Chesney puts on good show with not much new
June 2005
- Laura Cantrell overcomes "intimidating" setting
- Reba is in tip-top shape
- Heavy Trash - Spencer - Verta-Ray - creates something new
- The Derailers carry on
- Robbie Fulks ages well
May 2005
- Nothing slows down the momentum of Dierks Bentley
- Alan Jackson puts the fireworks in his music
- Ryan Adams plays a "decent" show
- Kathleen Edwards finally kicks in
April 2005
- Ricky Skaggs spreads the word
- For Big & Rich, talent matters
- Jo Dee Messina gets personal
- Mel and Pam Tillis make good music together
March 2005
- George Jones still tries making his musical mark
- Dylan, The Hag show their bonds
- Rhonda Vincent plays a pretty tasty meat and potatoes show
- Steve Earle goes his own (very political) way
February 2005
- Jimmie Dale Gilmore talks his way through fine music
- Steve Earle, Allison Moorer present a healthy diet of quality music
- Rimes takes the path making the most sense
January 2005
©Country Standard Time • Jeffrey B. Remz, editor & publisher • countrystandardtime@gmail.com
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