by Shannon Smith
This summer, country music fans were treated to a compelling new release by Christian Hayes, a rising star from Rome, Georgia. His single, “Cheyenne,” stands out in the summer heat in the country music landscape.
Hayes, known as “The Lullaby Kid” due to his ability to blend raw emotion with soothing melodies, brings an authenticity to his music that resonates with listeners. His songwriting, honed since childhood, draws from experiences of love, loss, and longing. Each section of “Cheyenne” feels like a diary entry, with Hayes inviting listeners to share in his [...]
by Steven Miller
In the vast forest of bluegrass music, a mighty poplar has emerged, firmly rooted in tradition while reaching for new heights. This self-titled debut from the bluegrass supergroup Mighty Poplar brings together five of the genre’s most esteemed musicians, each contributing their unique flavor to a harmonious whole.
Mighty Poplar consists of an all-star lineup: Andrew Marlin of Watchhouse on vocals and mandolin, Noam Pikelny and Chris Eldridge of Punch Brothers on banjo and guitar respectively, Greg Garrison of Leftover Salmon on bass, and Alex Hargreaves, currently touring with Billy Strings, on fiddle. This [...]
by Shannon Smith
Alyssa Bonagura’s latest EP, Love Wins, released under Extreme Music Library LTD, is a compelling set of songs that show her versatility as a songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. With a career that spans over a decade and a sound that fuses country storytelling, rock & roll spirit, and Brit-pop flair, Bonagura once again showcases her exceptional ability to transcend genres.
The EP opens with “No Stoppin’ This Train,” a vibrant anthem about newfound happiness after heartbreak. Bonagura’s powerful vocals soar over a rhythmic arrangement that mirrors the relentless motion of [...]
One of These Days marks a significant return for Baltimore native Cris Jacobs with his self-released gem that traverses the terrains of Country, Bluegrass, and Americana. Under the adept production of Jerry Douglas and featuring collaborations with notable artists, the album is a set of eleven well-written songs. After a five-year hiatus, Jacobs has created a flow of folk, blues, gospel, and bluegrass with a contemporary flair, crafting a must-listen for fans of rich storytelling and musical depth.
Jacobs’ journey through personal hardships and a global pandemic has culminated in this album, birthed in the solitude of his barn. The [...]
