And now, the end is near........
First of all, I would like to thank all of the folks that have listened to the station over the past year or so. It is with much regret that I have to inform you that I will be closing down Johnny Attitude Radio and The Ramble as of December 8th, 2006.I would also like to thank The Gambler, Rude Dog, and Nash Rambler for their contributions. The Ramble would not have been the same without them.If you really liked the music we were spinning, I suggest checking out Gruene With Envy or one of the other stations at Live365.com. There are still some great artists out there who would love to have you as a fan.With that being said, here is the final installment of The Ramble.
Attitude's Last Ramble (With A Lot Of Help From The Gambler)
Is it really December again? My how the time flies, when you are getting old. Johnny Attitudes birthday is in December and so is mine, not to mention the Big Guy old J.C. so it is always a time for reflection. So we sit around and discuss what new things we have to offer. After a few minutes of deafening silence we decide that the only thing we can do is follow in the time honored tradition of all our musical heroes. It is time for a greatest hits collection. Now I know what you are thinking, “They weren’t that great the first time.”, but I beg to differ. This last year has we have spread the gospel of some great songwriters and musicians and are quite proud of our little “blog”. So just in case you missed something we are giving you a chance to catch up. If you didn’t buy these records the first time you heard of them we recommend strongly that you give them a second look.
Chuckanut Drive “The Crooked Mile Home”
"Our sound is a mix of Exile Era Stones/Gram Parsons with the Byrds and a touch of Stax Soul thrown in for good measure". Those words caught my attention, not because I believed them, but because I have been hearing that for years and nobody really sounds like that. Congratulations, they are the first band who has actually described their sound with a good level of accuracy. I never even described my band correctly.
These guys are the real deal. If you want to find out more about this band, you can check them out at ChuckanutDrive.net or of course you can listen to Johnny Attitude Radio where they will be in rotation for some time to come. I look forward to great things from these guys.
Mark Bilyeu “First Ones Free”
For starters, if you are a Big Smith fan, you know that Mark is an accomplished writer, singer and picker in the holy hillbilly sense. With countless gigs and a few great albums under his belt with the family, I guess it was time for Mark to spread his wings a little bit. Usually when you see a guy step out from an established band and try out the solo thing, you will find an ego driven lust for more spotlight. In talking with Mark, I didn't get that impression at all. He seemed grounded and grateful for his experience.
First One Free jumps out of the overalls and into the cool as hell boots only a rocker could pull off. I have to admit, at first listen, I was confused. So I did what I was supposed to do. I listened again, and again. You can't just give up on new music because you don't get it the first time around. There is ALWAYS something there you missed, like the incredible guitar work on this record, or the depth of musical influences demonstrated. Right out of the shoot Antique Dreams soars with lyrically Dylanesque arrogance.
*Editorial Note “lyrically Dylanesque arrogance” W.T.F. J.A. you think you are Hunter S. Thompson? This ain’t Rolling Stone.
Scott Miller & the Commonwealth “Citation”
I could go on and on about this record for a long time. With only 36 minutes in run time, "Citation" contains some of the most worthwhile writing I have heard from Scott yet. From the steamy windows of a Chevy Citation and growing older in "Freedom Is A Stranger" to the heart tugging of "Long Goodnight", you could not place a better CD at the top of your list. You can order a copy now at sugarhillrecords.com
Cary Hudson “Bittersweet Blues”
In 2002 Cary released his first solo project, The Phoenix, which was followed in 2004 by Cool Breeze. After picking up a copy of each and giving them a listen, I figured out that the demise of Blue Mountain was far from the end of Cary’s career. Mixed with the blood and sweat that he always brings to the table, was a delta sound that I had not connected with before.In the process of setting up the interview with Cary, I found out that he was about to release his 3rd solo project, Bittersweet Blues, due out early this year. Being self indulgent and impatient as hell, I had to have a copy before anyone else. I am glad he sent me one. This is probably my favorite of his three solo releases.
Jon Dee Graham “Full”
When you are all alone, in the middle of the night, do you wish you could disappear? Does the weight of the world feel like a two ton sack of flour on your shoulders? Do you contemplate your own death or maybe you just wish you could fake it and start over somewhere else? Morning finally arrives and the freshness breaks through the gaps in your blinds and the warm sun washes over you as you step out to face the day, doesn’t it? We all have that duality or shadow self, according to Jon Dee Graham. For those of you new to Jon Dee, he is not so much of a legend in the musical world, but more of a true American Treasure. Through his music, you know him. The way he paints his songs allows you to almost visualize what it would be like to walk in his shoes.
*Editorial Note These words were written by a trained professional. Do not attempt to feel this way at home. I have and it’s not pretty. The Gambler
Stoney Larue “The Red Dirt Album”
If you haven’t picked up a copy of Stoney LaRue’s latest CD yet, you are missing out on some great music. “The Red Dirt Album” is a poetic mixture of the grit and passion that permeates the whole Red Dirt music scene. Stoney’s latest release, “The Red Dirt Album” is strong. Having cut his teeth in the college towns of Norman and Stillwater (Oklahoma), he took his soul to Texas to let those folks down there know what Red Dirt was all about.
Adam Carroll "Far Away Blues"
Far Away Blues is as plain spoken as the writer himself. Filled with really intimate guitar strumming, backed by some of the best session players in the world of heavy wood, like Mr. Lloyd Maines, the music shapes each cut with exactly the right mix of beauty and truth. You might even laugh a time or two. The highlight of FAB for me was the “Last Day Of Grace”, a duet with Ray Wylie Hubbard (co-writer).
The Drams “Jubilee Drive”
It takes a lot to break me away from my normal musical diet of Waylon Jennings, Bruce Robison and Todd Snider. (I know it’s a strange bunch but in a perfect world I like to think they would all be friends) The new record “Jubilee Dive” from “The Drams” is a breath of fresh air mixed with a good kick to the backside. Just what we all need from time to time to remind us what we all love about music. The inspiration it gives us along with the passion that it drives in all of us is exactly what music should be about. “The Drams” do not disappoint in any category no matter where your musical tastes lie. Brent Best says in the first track on this record that The Truth Lies Low. But it’s out there. All you have to do is pay attention. With this band and this record you won’t have any problem.
Reckless Kelly “Was Here”
My first love was a……… endless possibilities. That’s what comes to mind when I think of Reckless Kelly. I must admit I was late in recognizing this band and all their talents having first discovered them with the release of their last studio record “Wicked Twisted Road”. But as the saying goes, “better late than never”. This record literally took my head off. My brother in arms, Johnny Attitude told me about a song that he said reminded him of myself and that I should listen to it. That song was the title track “Wicked Twisted Road” and in the words of Dylan “it was as if every word was written down in my soul from me to you.” That’s what makes a classic and this band is sure to have many. Already a decade worth of touring and recording has turned this outfit into tough, rough and ready gunslingers. The kind of outlaws that come to town, drink all your whisky, kiss all the girls and ride off with a hoop and a holler leaving you wanting more. Just like all our heroes who have a little Robin Hood in them and a little rogue.
Reckless Kelly have just released a mountain of music in their new double live CD “Was Here” along with a concert DVD that comes with it and all for a price that really is a steal. The CD is filled with the perfect set list that represents this hard working band at its finest. Recorded in one night in Austin, Texas on March 31, 2006 at La Zona Rosa and produced by Cody Braun and David Abeyta. “Sixgun” rips it open and all your Reckless Kelly favorites are included along with some covers that the band has made their own over the last ten years of playing for their fans. Two new songs are included “Wiggles and Ritalin” and “Break My Heart Tonight” in their live version and also at the end of disc two are the studio versions. So this double record has it all.
Adrienne Young & Little Sadie “The Art of Virtue” & “Plow to the End of the Row”
Hello friends and neighbors. The Gambler here to tell you about another gem we have found. Truth be told Adrienne Young has been making music for some time now and has two fine records out under the EchoMusic label and distributed by IGO Records. “Plow to the End of the Row” released in 2004 and “The Art of Virtue” released in 2005 are both very impressive and both very expansive in the genres they cover. From great bluegrass picking and perfect lyrical songwriting to traditional mountain music with Celtic undertones this little girl has soul and depth of character that is truly awe inspiring. Other than the traditional arrangements like “Bonaparte’s Retreat” off of “The Art of Virtue” and the last four tracks on “Plow to the End of the Row” Adrienne has written or co-written twenty out of the twenty four other tracks on these two records. The Gambler says buy these records today at www.adrienneyoung.com and if you want she will even send you an autographed copy of “The Art of Virtue”.
*Editorial Note I hear Adrienne is in the studio now recording her third album with her band little Sadie. I can’t wait to hear it.
.jpg)
The Suburbillies “Sub-Bourbon”
The distinctive album cover of "Sub -Bourbon", the Suburbillies Y2K release on "Me & The Mexican" label, is reflective of the distinctive nature of this record. Fueled by the character driven voice & lyrics of a young singer/songwriter named Jon Dawson & the "I'll be go to hell" guitar work of veteran axeman Marco Tello, "Sub-Bourbon" takes you on a panoramic tour of rock & roll, country, alt-country, & bluegrass. These guys were not trying to be a "Red Dirt" band, whatever that is, they were just being themselves. The insightful lyrics of Dawson reveal a well worn & somewhat frayed youthful experience of life on 10 of the 14 tracks here. Dawson explores the dynamics of his experiences with honesty & a reflective nature. Tello contributes mightily as well. Penning two tracks & co-writing with Dawson on two others, "The Mexican" displays his songwriting talent as well as some very hot axe chops. "Tom, Dick & Harry" is a track that explores the humorous nuances of 3 buddies & is told by the 4th buddy who has a few nuances of his own. "Your Ghost" is a wicked little biting number that will make any Ex- Boyfriend or Husband smoke a stogy & drink 3 fingers validating where the poet is coming from. If you want a respite from your ILDGMA (I Love Damn Good Music Anonymous) meetings, pour yourself a fifth of "Sub-Bourbon" & have a good time!!! ......... Y2K4. We'll call it "creative differences". Whatever in hell that is. The point? After one great record "The Suburbillies" are no more. DAMN. What's left?? The still talented & maturing, evolving lyrics of Jon Dawson. DAMN STRAIGHT.
Jon Dawson “The Dream”
Hence, "The Dream". Dawson recorded this solo project in his "South Youngs Studios". The character driven voice & lyrics are still there. They always will be. Call them staples. What's different is the maturity as a person & songwriter. Make no mistake, Dawson still relates his life experiences with honesty & a gritty realistic approach, but now he has waded through more than youthful indiscretions. An ever maturing walk through life provides a broader scope of material. "Ballad of Ethel" & "Ezra" deals with parental relationships. "Letters to Caroline" is a study of one mans concerns during the War Between the States. It is second only on this subject matter to Dave Alvin's "Andersonville". "Jimmy Let's Roll" is a salute to good times with a beloved brother. "Gospel of Jon" visits the darkness of self destructive mindsets. There are 14 other testimonials of fine songwriting for your listening pleasure on this well conceived record. Dawson’s writing & delivery are right on & will make you say “I hate mainstream radio!!". If you want a respite from your ILDGMA meetings....well you get the picture.... I can't help it.
______________________________________________
Well there you go, just a few of the acts that we felt deserved a little spotlight this year. Of course there are many others, so Johnny Attitude, Rude Dog and the Gambler ask that you support the new music that is out there. Be it a local band, a regional act or even if the sell outs have gone national get out there and buy their records and go see them live when you can. Remember that Top Forty radio doesn’t even come close to showing all the talent that is out there so we battled through the freedom of internet radio to bring great music to you all. Thanks for your support over the past year or so. Johnny Attitude says “Kiss My Ass”, Rude Dog says “Woof, Woof”, Nash Rambler says “God Bless you and Vote Democrat” and The Gambler says “I’m All In” and from all of us “Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, and Happy Hanukah”. It's been fun.
Attitude's Last Ramble (With A Lot Of Help From The Gambler)
Is it really December again? My how the time flies, when you are getting old. Johnny Attitudes birthday is in December and so is mine, not to mention the Big Guy old J.C. so it is always a time for reflection. So we sit around and discuss what new things we have to offer. After a few minutes of deafening silence we decide that the only thing we can do is follow in the time honored tradition of all our musical heroes. It is time for a greatest hits collection. Now I know what you are thinking, “They weren’t that great the first time.”, but I beg to differ. This last year has we have spread the gospel of some great songwriters and musicians and are quite proud of our little “blog”. So just in case you missed something we are giving you a chance to catch up. If you didn’t buy these records the first time you heard of them we recommend strongly that you give them a second look.
Chuckanut Drive “The Crooked Mile Home”
"Our sound is a mix of Exile Era Stones/Gram Parsons with the Byrds and a touch of Stax Soul thrown in for good measure". Those words caught my attention, not because I believed them, but because I have been hearing that for years and nobody really sounds like that. Congratulations, they are the first band who has actually described their sound with a good level of accuracy. I never even described my band correctly.
These guys are the real deal. If you want to find out more about this band, you can check them out at ChuckanutDrive.net or of course you can listen to Johnny Attitude Radio where they will be in rotation for some time to come. I look forward to great things from these guys.
Mark Bilyeu “First Ones Free”For starters, if you are a Big Smith fan, you know that Mark is an accomplished writer, singer and picker in the holy hillbilly sense. With countless gigs and a few great albums under his belt with the family, I guess it was time for Mark to spread his wings a little bit. Usually when you see a guy step out from an established band and try out the solo thing, you will find an ego driven lust for more spotlight. In talking with Mark, I didn't get that impression at all. He seemed grounded and grateful for his experience.
First One Free jumps out of the overalls and into the cool as hell boots only a rocker could pull off. I have to admit, at first listen, I was confused. So I did what I was supposed to do. I listened again, and again. You can't just give up on new music because you don't get it the first time around. There is ALWAYS something there you missed, like the incredible guitar work on this record, or the depth of musical influences demonstrated. Right out of the shoot Antique Dreams soars with lyrically Dylanesque arrogance.
*Editorial Note “lyrically Dylanesque arrogance” W.T.F. J.A. you think you are Hunter S. Thompson? This ain’t Rolling Stone.
Scott Miller & the Commonwealth “Citation”
I could go on and on about this record for a long time. With only 36 minutes in run time, "Citation" contains some of the most worthwhile writing I have heard from Scott yet. From the steamy windows of a Chevy Citation and growing older in "Freedom Is A Stranger" to the heart tugging of "Long Goodnight", you could not place a better CD at the top of your list. You can order a copy now at sugarhillrecords.com
Cary Hudson “Bittersweet Blues”In 2002 Cary released his first solo project, The Phoenix, which was followed in 2004 by Cool Breeze. After picking up a copy of each and giving them a listen, I figured out that the demise of Blue Mountain was far from the end of Cary’s career. Mixed with the blood and sweat that he always brings to the table, was a delta sound that I had not connected with before.In the process of setting up the interview with Cary, I found out that he was about to release his 3rd solo project, Bittersweet Blues, due out early this year. Being self indulgent and impatient as hell, I had to have a copy before anyone else. I am glad he sent me one. This is probably my favorite of his three solo releases.
Jon Dee Graham “Full”
When you are all alone, in the middle of the night, do you wish you could disappear? Does the weight of the world feel like a two ton sack of flour on your shoulders? Do you contemplate your own death or maybe you just wish you could fake it and start over somewhere else? Morning finally arrives and the freshness breaks through the gaps in your blinds and the warm sun washes over you as you step out to face the day, doesn’t it? We all have that duality or shadow self, according to Jon Dee Graham. For those of you new to Jon Dee, he is not so much of a legend in the musical world, but more of a true American Treasure. Through his music, you know him. The way he paints his songs allows you to almost visualize what it would be like to walk in his shoes.
*Editorial Note These words were written by a trained professional. Do not attempt to feel this way at home. I have and it’s not pretty. The Gambler
Stoney Larue “The Red Dirt Album”
If you haven’t picked up a copy of Stoney LaRue’s latest CD yet, you are missing out on some great music. “The Red Dirt Album” is a poetic mixture of the grit and passion that permeates the whole Red Dirt music scene. Stoney’s latest release, “The Red Dirt Album” is strong. Having cut his teeth in the college towns of Norman and Stillwater (Oklahoma), he took his soul to Texas to let those folks down there know what Red Dirt was all about.
Adam Carroll "Far Away Blues"Far Away Blues is as plain spoken as the writer himself. Filled with really intimate guitar strumming, backed by some of the best session players in the world of heavy wood, like Mr. Lloyd Maines, the music shapes each cut with exactly the right mix of beauty and truth. You might even laugh a time or two. The highlight of FAB for me was the “Last Day Of Grace”, a duet with Ray Wylie Hubbard (co-writer).
The Drams “Jubilee Drive”
It takes a lot to break me away from my normal musical diet of Waylon Jennings, Bruce Robison and Todd Snider. (I know it’s a strange bunch but in a perfect world I like to think they would all be friends) The new record “Jubilee Dive” from “The Drams” is a breath of fresh air mixed with a good kick to the backside. Just what we all need from time to time to remind us what we all love about music. The inspiration it gives us along with the passion that it drives in all of us is exactly what music should be about. “The Drams” do not disappoint in any category no matter where your musical tastes lie. Brent Best says in the first track on this record that The Truth Lies Low. But it’s out there. All you have to do is pay attention. With this band and this record you won’t have any problem.
Reckless Kelly “Was Here”My first love was a……… endless possibilities. That’s what comes to mind when I think of Reckless Kelly. I must admit I was late in recognizing this band and all their talents having first discovered them with the release of their last studio record “Wicked Twisted Road”. But as the saying goes, “better late than never”. This record literally took my head off. My brother in arms, Johnny Attitude told me about a song that he said reminded him of myself and that I should listen to it. That song was the title track “Wicked Twisted Road” and in the words of Dylan “it was as if every word was written down in my soul from me to you.” That’s what makes a classic and this band is sure to have many. Already a decade worth of touring and recording has turned this outfit into tough, rough and ready gunslingers. The kind of outlaws that come to town, drink all your whisky, kiss all the girls and ride off with a hoop and a holler leaving you wanting more. Just like all our heroes who have a little Robin Hood in them and a little rogue.
Reckless Kelly have just released a mountain of music in their new double live CD “Was Here” along with a concert DVD that comes with it and all for a price that really is a steal. The CD is filled with the perfect set list that represents this hard working band at its finest. Recorded in one night in Austin, Texas on March 31, 2006 at La Zona Rosa and produced by Cody Braun and David Abeyta. “Sixgun” rips it open and all your Reckless Kelly favorites are included along with some covers that the band has made their own over the last ten years of playing for their fans. Two new songs are included “Wiggles and Ritalin” and “Break My Heart Tonight” in their live version and also at the end of disc two are the studio versions. So this double record has it all.
Adrienne Young & Little Sadie “The Art of Virtue” & “Plow to the End of the Row”
Hello friends and neighbors. The Gambler here to tell you about another gem we have found. Truth be told Adrienne Young has been making music for some time now and has two fine records out under the EchoMusic label and distributed by IGO Records. “Plow to the End of the Row” released in 2004 and “The Art of Virtue” released in 2005 are both very impressive and both very expansive in the genres they cover. From great bluegrass picking and perfect lyrical songwriting to traditional mountain music with Celtic undertones this little girl has soul and depth of character that is truly awe inspiring. Other than the traditional arrangements like “Bonaparte’s Retreat” off of “The Art of Virtue” and the last four tracks on “Plow to the End of the Row” Adrienne has written or co-written twenty out of the twenty four other tracks on these two records. The Gambler says buy these records today at www.adrienneyoung.com and if you want she will even send you an autographed copy of “The Art of Virtue”.
*Editorial Note I hear Adrienne is in the studio now recording her third album with her band little Sadie. I can’t wait to hear it.
The Suburbillies “Sub-Bourbon”The distinctive album cover of "Sub -Bourbon", the Suburbillies Y2K release on "Me & The Mexican" label, is reflective of the distinctive nature of this record. Fueled by the character driven voice & lyrics of a young singer/songwriter named Jon Dawson & the "I'll be go to hell" guitar work of veteran axeman Marco Tello, "Sub-Bourbon" takes you on a panoramic tour of rock & roll, country, alt-country, & bluegrass. These guys were not trying to be a "Red Dirt" band, whatever that is, they were just being themselves. The insightful lyrics of Dawson reveal a well worn & somewhat frayed youthful experience of life on 10 of the 14 tracks here. Dawson explores the dynamics of his experiences with honesty & a reflective nature. Tello contributes mightily as well. Penning two tracks & co-writing with Dawson on two others, "The Mexican" displays his songwriting talent as well as some very hot axe chops. "Tom, Dick & Harry" is a track that explores the humorous nuances of 3 buddies & is told by the 4th buddy who has a few nuances of his own. "Your Ghost" is a wicked little biting number that will make any Ex- Boyfriend or Husband smoke a stogy & drink 3 fingers validating where the poet is coming from. If you want a respite from your ILDGMA (I Love Damn Good Music Anonymous) meetings, pour yourself a fifth of "Sub-Bourbon" & have a good time!!! ......... Y2K4. We'll call it "creative differences". Whatever in hell that is. The point? After one great record "The Suburbillies" are no more. DAMN. What's left?? The still talented & maturing, evolving lyrics of Jon Dawson. DAMN STRAIGHT.
Jon Dawson “The Dream”
Hence, "The Dream". Dawson recorded this solo project in his "South Youngs Studios". The character driven voice & lyrics are still there. They always will be. Call them staples. What's different is the maturity as a person & songwriter. Make no mistake, Dawson still relates his life experiences with honesty & a gritty realistic approach, but now he has waded through more than youthful indiscretions. An ever maturing walk through life provides a broader scope of material. "Ballad of Ethel" & "Ezra" deals with parental relationships. "Letters to Caroline" is a study of one mans concerns during the War Between the States. It is second only on this subject matter to Dave Alvin's "Andersonville". "Jimmy Let's Roll" is a salute to good times with a beloved brother. "Gospel of Jon" visits the darkness of self destructive mindsets. There are 14 other testimonials of fine songwriting for your listening pleasure on this well conceived record. Dawson’s writing & delivery are right on & will make you say “I hate mainstream radio!!". If you want a respite from your ILDGMA meetings....well you get the picture.... I can't help it.
______________________________________________
Well there you go, just a few of the acts that we felt deserved a little spotlight this year. Of course there are many others, so Johnny Attitude, Rude Dog and the Gambler ask that you support the new music that is out there. Be it a local band, a regional act or even if the sell outs have gone national get out there and buy their records and go see them live when you can. Remember that Top Forty radio doesn’t even come close to showing all the talent that is out there so we battled through the freedom of internet radio to bring great music to you all. Thanks for your support over the past year or so. Johnny Attitude says “Kiss My Ass”, Rude Dog says “Woof, Woof”, Nash Rambler says “God Bless you and Vote Democrat” and The Gambler says “I’m All In” and from all of us “Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, and Happy Hanukah”. It's been fun.
posted by JBR at 6:11 PM
links to this post
