Have Gun, Will Travel: Postcards From The Friendly City

Amazing songwriters give me a sense of familiarity. Not in an "I've heard this before" kind of way, but in a "this feels right" kind of way. Have Gun, Will Travel is definitely one of those bands - the're innovative, talented and just "feel right".

I really hope they escape the "alt-country" label that dogs most bands as talented as these guys and Postcards from the Friendly City reaches a broader audience than it seems to be reaching now. Have Gun, Will Travel's music is fresh, enthusiastic, and fun. However, they also have a sophistication to them that most bands could barely scratch if their careers lasted centuries.

Postcards from the Friendly City is a masterpiece and I am really upset that I did not include it on my top list last year. Great album and definitely worth your purchase.

Old Man Luedecke: My Hands are on Fire and other Love Songs

It's been a couple of years since my wife introduced me the glory that is Old Man Luedecke. Just as I had greatly anticipated Joe Pug's latest effort, I have to say that I am just as excited about this release. Luedecke's latest My Hands are on Fire and other Love Songs will be available March 30th on Black Hen and I can't wait!

Old Man Luedecke - The Rear Guard

The Kissaway Trail - Sleep Mountain

Although I would love to be in a smoky-bar somewhere watching the The Kissaway Trail perform, I can't help but think how amazing the songs from Sleep Mountain would sound driving a quiet stretch of highway in the middle of the night… alone. With every track on the album, one of the best produced I have heard in ages, the band tackles something different and, with that, they float between genres. I love their boldness in ignoring musical rules, which I am sure was pushed by producer Peter Katis, in adding new and interesting elements to each song.

In an album chalked-full of great things, the stand-outs on Sleep Mountain are "New Lipstick" and "Three Million Hours." These songs just capture the essence of the album and the talent The Kissaway Trail have as songwriters.

As I am sure The Kissaway Trail have heard, there are comparables out there. I want to call a great hybrid mix between Arcade Fire and The Shout Out Louds, but the sound is definitely new and original. Way up on my radar right now and a great joy to listen to. Now, I just need some alone time and a stretch of road.

The Kissaway Trail - SDP

Photo Credit: Jacob Keinicke