New music: The Rolling Stones, Charley Crockett, 'American Cosmic Revival, Vol. 2'

In this column, I celebrate the latest returns from The Rolling Stones, Charley Crockett and an essential tribute to "Cosmic American Music" spearheaded by alt country champion Christian Parker.

Artist: The Rolling Stones
Title: Foreign Tongues (Capitol)
You might like if you enjoy: The Rolling Stones

Tell me more: Against all odds — and time itself — The Rolling Stones are back. More than 60 years after emerging from the early '60s London music scene, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers returned on July 10 with their 25th studio album, Foreign Tongues. Produced by Andrew Watt, the new star-studded followup to the band's 2023 album Hackney Diamonds features musical contributions from the illustrious likes of Cure frontman Robert Smith (vocals, guitar), Steve Winwood, keyboardist Benmont Tench (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Bruno Mars, Sir Paul McCartney and more. The album even features a track recorded with the late Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts just prior to his death in 2021! Is this a top-tier return from the English band featuring Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood? Definitely. The 14-track album is loaded with the band's signature brand of blues-influenced rock and roll. Just listen to the rowdy "Mr. Charm" featuring Jagger's rapid-fire vocals, the rousing blues-rock gem "Rough And Twisted" adorned with some killer blues harmonica, the shimmering instant classic "In The Stars," R&B-flavored "Jealous Lover" (the latter showcasing Jagger's terrific falsetto vocals) or countrified "Ringing Hollow" to feel the spirit of the so-called "greatest rock and roll band in the world" rear their glorious head in 2026. Other terrific cuts on the LP include the propulsive '80s-tinged rocker "Never Wanna Lose You" featuring backing vocals from Smith, the tender "Covered In You" and "Back In Your Life," and infectious dance-fueled "Side Effects." The album closes out with a delightfully raw slide guitar heavy reading of Chuck Berry's 1958 classic "Beautiful Delilah." Information: rollingstones.com.  

Artist: Charley Crockett
Title: Clovis (Atlantic Outpost)
You might like if you enjoy: Hank Williams, Michael Ubaldini, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard

Tell me more: Originally released on April 28, 2026 — and then pulled from all streaming services because of record company-related legal issues on May 7 — Charley Crockett's 17th studio album Clovis was re-released by Atlantic Outpost on July 3 in time for America's 250th Birthday. The 14-track LP is a true return to form for the Texas native. Recorded in a mere six days in Clovis, New Mexico (March 21-26, 2026) while Crockett, his entire band and album producer Shooter Jennings were sick with COVID-19, the album is a true celebration of Crockett's neotraditional country approach. The album is outstanding, bolstered by a parade of winning originals spanning from the driving opener "The Hallelujah Trail" (co-written by Jennings and Crockett) to the outlaw country-mining closer "Waylon Rides Again." Among this writer's favorite tracks on the disc are the Waylon Jennings-flavored "Down by Law," the soulful romance-themed "Image of a Woman," rowdy country rocker "Eagle and the Crow," autobiographical "Country Music," tender "Last Night at the Alamo" and deeply affecting cover of Johnny Cash's 1958 original "Don't Take Your Guns to Town." Information: charleycrockett.com.

Artists: Christian Parker, Earl Poole Ball, Patrick Cleary, Jay Dee Maness
Title: American Cosmic Revival Vol. 2: Miles From Nowhere (Subcat Records / Edgewater Music Group)
You might like if you enjoy: Gram Parsons, Michael Ubaldini, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Merle Haggard, Gene Clark, Bob Dylan

Tell me more: In the late 1960s and early '70s, Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman were among the principal artists who crafted music that blended country, folk and rock music into what would soon be dubbed "Cosmic American Music." Indeed, that movement influenced a number of other music icons including The Eagles, Neil Young, Emmylou Harris, Poco, Michael Ubaldini, First Aid Kit and even The Rolling Stones. Now New York-based singer-guitarist Christian Parker has released an ambitious tribute to the beloved musical tradition with an illustrious cast of players including pianist Earl Poole Ball (whose career includes work with Parsons, Johnny Cash, The Byrds and the International Submarine Band) and pedal steel guitar player Jay Dee Maness (a founding member of the International Submarine Band and later a member of the Desert Rose Band). The mix of wonderful selections include a bewitching take on the Parsons-Hillman composition "Wheels," an emotive reading of the countrified ballad "She Once Lived Here," wistful Americana take of the Gene Clark-Bernie Leadon co-write "Train Leaves Here This Morning," soaring version of the Everly Brothers' beautiful "So Sad," and touching rendition of Merle Haggard's "If We Make It Through December." Closing out the fantastic collection is a touching rendering of The Rolling Stones' classic "Wild Horses." Information: christianparker.com or subcat.net.

Robert Kinsler

'Mackintosh and TJ,' Roy Rogers final film appearance - film coming to Blu-ray & DVD on May 18

I wanted to make sure fans of westerns, the late silver screen star Roy Rogers and the music of Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson saw this news...Robert Kinsler

Newly Restored 4K Edition Of Mackintosh and T.J. Starring The Legendary Roy Rogers In His Final Film Appearance Coming May 18, 2021

Featuring music by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, the American Western  is set for debut on Blu-ray and DVD via Verdugo Entertainment and MVD

On Tuesday, May 18, 2021, Verdugo Entertainment will launch the newly restored 4K version of the 1975 classic Mackintosh and T.J. on Blu-ray and DVD. The modern day American western stars the legendary “King of the Cowboys” Roy Rogers, in his final feature film appearance. 

 

Distributed by Verdugo Entertainment and MVD Entertainment Group, the film is also streaming now on Amazon Prime, Vudu, You Tube and Google Play. 

 

Mackintosh and T.J. is described as “a moving photo album of ranch life in Texas in the mid-1970s.” Screenwriter Paul Savage, most known for his TV work in Wagon Train, Big Valley, and Gunsmoke, penned the film specifically with Roy Rogers in mind. The film is one of the few in which Roy Rogers did not play himself, portraying instead the title character of Mackintosh, a veteran ranch hand. 

 

In the film, wandering through rural Texas ranch country, Mackintosh becomes a father figure for the young and homeless T.J. (Clay O’Brien) and helps him to stay on track. They land jobs on the ranch of Jim Webster, where Mackintosh proves his skills as a horse tamer. When a murder takes place, Mackintosh is framed which leads to dramatic events. 

 

Watch trailer here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvrJwwNdkZo

 

The film was restored to 4K from the original 35MM camera negative, including audio cleanup and went through a color correction process to match the original film. Colorist Sean Lawrence comments, “Our color correction approach was to try and be as true to the original intention and not impose modern color correction aesthetics. Were the filmmakers alive to see it, we would want them to feel that this matched their original vision.”

 

Mackintosh and TJ’s original score is by Waylon Jennings and the soundtrack features songs by Jennings and country music icon Willie Nelson.

 

The film was recently spotlighted in the What is a Western? Interview Series: Ranching, Rodeo and Roy Rogers produced by The Autry Museum and featuring a lively discussion with rodeo world champion Larry Mahan (who also has a role in the movie), and film historians C. Courtney Joyner and Stuart Rosebrook. The panelists discuss the realistic portrayal of 20th century rodeo and ranching life in movies, particularly in Roy Rogers’ final film, and explore the significance of the Western genre and the ways in which the movies shape our understanding of the American West. 

Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fg7MaCOzEe4

 

“It isn’t a Roy Rogers movie, it’s a wonderful movie that Roy Rogers is in that reflects quite a bit of 1970’s sensibility,” says Joyner.

 

“Roy Rogers’ character Mackintosh seems to be an amalgamation of some of those characters we saw in Junior Bonner, J W Coop, The Honkers - men out of time, men who have values, who still follow the ‘Code of The West.’ So that message came across very strong,” comments Rosebrook.

 

“Producer Tim Penland wanted to do older style Westerns,” explains Mahan. “He had quite an extensive Christian background, and he wanted to get away from what he saw in Westerns, as there was too much violence, and he wanted to do something that was more in line with his values.”

Bonus Materials

• Audio Commentary with Clay O’Brien, Andrew Robinson and moderator C. Courtney Joyner
• Lone Pine Cast Reunion with Clay O’Brien, Andrew Robinson and Larry Mahan
• Interview with Billy Green Bush
• Original On-Set Footage
• Theatrical Trailer

About Verdugo Entertainment

Verdugo Entertainment is a leading independent entertainment distribution company dedicated to rediscovering, restoring and distributing cult classic and retro films. Located in Burbank, California, the company provides complete film-distribution services and the highest level of technical quality in restoration so that each film is presented in its intended brilliance – bringing today’s fans closer than ever to the original experience.  Verdugo films are made widely available through streaming services, VOD, OTT, Broadcast, on VHS collectors sets, on DVD and Blu-ray, and can be seen at outdoor screenings, cinemas and festivals across the U.S. and Canada.   

New Music: The Lickerish Quartet, Steve Earle & The Dukes, The Claudettes, Sara Evans, Waylon Jennings

Whether you are sheltering in place or getting back out to work or play, there are some truly fantastic new releases worth discovering including the debut from The Lickerish Quartet, as well as the latest albums from Steve Earle & The Dukes, The Claudettes, and Sara Evans. There is also an essential new Waylon Jennings release out via DVD and digital.

The Lickerish Quartet - Tim Smith, Eric Dover and Roger Joseph Manning Jr.

Artist: The Lickerish Quartet
Title: Threesome Vol. 1 (The Lickerish Quartet/Label Logic)
You might like if you enjoy: Jellyfish, Jason Falkner, Imperial Drag, dada
Tell me more: While groundbreaking '90s psychedelic pop outfit Jellyfish appears unlikely to ever reform, the next-best-thing is the new musical project christened the Lickerish Quartet featuring Roger Joseph Manning Jr., Tim Smith and Eric Dover — all of whom were members of Jellyfish. The band's debut release Threesome Vol. 1 fully delivers on the anticipation that has surrounded the Lickerish Quartet from the earliest moments when the trio's formation was announced in early March 2020. "Bluebird's Blues" recalls the magic of Jellyfish to be sure, an original track as intoxicating and melodic as it is inventive  — shimmering harmonies and stunning pop craft as bright as the sun. The bouncy and buoyant "Fadoodle" is pure fun, a power pop shot that celebrates rekindling romantic lust with unabashed joy.  "There is a Magic Number" is a relatively quiet affair; but listen closely to the lovely luster constructed via nuanced layers of vocal harmonies and involving instrumental flourishes that embolden the cut. The ace offering on the EP is the ambitious "Lighthouse Spaceship," a 6½ minute dose of greatness borne out of the friendly ghosts of XTC, Queen, Electric Light Orchestra and "Pet Sounds"-era Beach Boys. The digital version of the album is available now, while the audio CD format is set for release on June 26, 2020. Information: TheLickerishQuartet.com.

Artist: Steve Earle & The Dukes
Title: Ghosts of West Virginia (New West)
You might like if you enjoy: Phil Ochs, Johnny Cash, John Mellencamp
Tell me more: Ambitious, forceful and resplendent in ways that will excite discerning listeners of all stripes, Steve Earle & The Dukes' new LP Ghosts of West Virginia is an important and compelling tour de force. The album features six songs from the play "Coal Country" (a collaboration that Earle worked on with playwrights Jessical Blank and Erik Jensen) as well as four additional tracks. Opening on March 3, 2020  at The Public Theater in New York City, "Coal Country" was postponed after only two weeks due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Steve Earle / Photo By Jacob Blickenstaff 

But it will take more than a global pandemic to diminish the power of Ghosts of West Virginia. The a capella opener "Heaven Ain't Goin' Nowhere," old-time sing-along "Union, God and Country" that addresses the multi-generational role that mining plays in coal country, and Appalachia-drenched "Devil Put the Coal into the Ground" transport the listener into a world that few outsiders know or appreciate. The Springsteen-styled "John Henry was a Steel Drivin' Man" and probing "Time Is Never On Our Side" delve further into the realities that have reduced the value of human life in coal mines. The rage from the lives lost consumes "It's About Blood," a searing rocker that finds Earle sounding off the names of every victim who died in the Upper Big Branch mine explosion in 2010 as the Dukes play powerfully in accompaniment. The gorgeous country ballad "If I Could See Your Face Again" (sung by actress Mary Bacon) imagines a miner's widow lamenting she won't see her husband again: "If I could touch you one more time / Just to Hold your Head in Mine / I'd never let you go again / I promise" — a particularly melancholic and mournful track. Other songs like the potent mandolin-adorned "Black Lung," Southern rocker "Fastest Man Alive" and sparse "The Mine" bring further power and poetic grace to the purposeful "Ghosts of West Virginia." Information: SteveEarle.com.

Artist: The Claudettes
Title: High Times in the Dark (Forty Below Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Alabama Shakes, Southern Avenue

Tell me more: The Claudettes' sound is at once magically familiar and decidedly new, with the quartet's sound somehow weaving roots rock, New Orleans rhythm and blues, and Memphis rock 'n' soul together with a post-punk attitude blended together into a sonic brew the band has rightfully dubbed "garage cabaret." On the troupe's brilliant new album High Times in the Dark, Johnny Iguana's astounding piano playing and singer Berit Ulseth's marvelous voice vy for attention in all the right ways, while there is still room to showcase the top-tier work of Michael Caskey (drums) and Zach Verdoorn (bass, guitar). The rip roaring "24/5," lush "I Swear to God, I Will," edgy rocker "Declined" and moody "I Don't Do That Stuff Anymore" showcase the wide-ranging approach of the talented outfit. The songs are powerful, with sweeping arrangements equaled by the involving lyrics exploring the vast reaches of the modern world. The lavish "You Drummers Keep Breaking My Heart" addresses the challenges of keeping the seat behind the kit filled, while the album-closing track "The Sun Will Fool You" is a sobering account of an unfeeling lover who has everyone fooled — this selection that finds Ulseth's soprano at its most vulnerable while Iguana offers lone accompaniment with plaintive playing on his keyboard. Information: theclaudettes.com.

Artist: Sara Evans
Title: Copy That (Born To Fly Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Sara Evans, Old Crow Medicine Show, Little Big Town
Tell me more: Country singer Sara Evans uses her signature vocals in the service of revisiting more than a dozen classic hits on her aptly-named Copy That. Revisiting iconic selections forged over the past six decades and representing several genres, the exuberant Celtic pop romp "Come On Eileen" (a 1982 hit for Dexy's Midnight Runners) and Chicago's "Hard To Say I'm Sorry" feel mostly faithful while the reworked takes on the Pretenders' "Don't Get Me Wrong" and Carole King's "It's Too Late" are much more interesting. Other surefire choices include Evans' lavish version of John Mayer's "All We Ever Do Is Say Goodbye," a lush reading of the Wallflowers' "6th Avenue Heartache" and a rousing modern take on The Knack's "My Sharona." Evans also has a couple of interesting collaborations, including the spirited "Whenever I Call You 'Friend' " with Little Big Town's Phillip Sweet and yearning "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" with Old Crow Medicine Show. Information: SaraEvans.com.

Artist: Waylon Jennings
Title: The Outlaw Performance (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: Waylon Jennings, Shooter Jennings, Johnny Cash
Tell me more: Fans of the late outlaw country legend Waylon Jennings are in luck. The newly-released The Outlaw Performance (available on DVD or via digital) features a special 1978 concert featuring Jennings playing in front of a sold-out crowd in Nashville, TN. The presentation features Jennings and his band in concert, with the concert footage combined with Jennings' own words adding depth to the performance. Highlights find him recalling his connection with country music and music friends in his life; he talks about key songs, why he learned how to play lead guitar, and his admiration and connection with Johnny Cash, Buddy Holly and George Jones. After kicking things off with the uptempo opener "Are You Ready for the Country?" (written by Neil Young), Jennings delivers one great track after another including the rowdy "Lonesome, On'ry and Mean" (enhanced by his sharp lead guitar work), a cover of Robert Lee McDill's tender ballad "Amanda," Merle Haggard's "Tonight The Bottle Let Me Down" the confessional "You Asked Me To" and the audience favorite "Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys." He closes out the set with his 1973 classic "Honky Tonk Heroes" and his 1975 number one hit "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way." Bonus features on the release include "Friends Remember The Outlaw" with archival interviews with George Jones, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Jennings' long-time drummer Richie Albright. The full concert without the narration is also included. Information: eagle-rock.com.

Robert Kinsler

'Waylon Jennings: The Outlaw Performance' coming to DVD, digital on May 15, 2020

I wanted to highlight this announcement as its own post! Exciting news as it relates to a historic performance from country outlaw great Waylon Jennings set for release on May 15 - Robert Kinsler

Eagle Rock Entertainment presents 'Waylon Jennings: The Outlaw Performance' - coming to DVD and digital formats Friday, May 15, 2020

PRE-ORDER HERE

On May 15, Eagle Rock Entertainment will proudly present an incredible concert experience -- Waylon Jennings: The Outlaw Performance will be released on DVD and Digital Formats.

Filmed in 1978, this concert film captures Jennings performing at a sold-out Opry House in Nashville. Rolling out such staples as “I’ve Always Been Crazy,” “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys,” and “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way,” Jennings delivers a timeless set, representative of his stature as one of country music’s most important figures.

Adding a layer of intimacy, this unique footage is combined with interview excerpts from Waylon. Listening to him reflect and recount tales as they accompany the music supplies a special historic context, allowing viewers to experience Waylon Jennings in a new way.

As a bonus, The Outlaw Performance includes the full concert without the excerpts and a “Friends Remember The Outlaw” interview segment, featuring 1990 interviews with George Jones, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Waylon’s longtime drummer, Richie Albright.

Waylon Jennings was the personification of outlaw country, challenging the norms of Nashville’s conventional, polished sound at the time. The Outlaw Performancedelivers the absolute essence of Jennings, as a songwriter and storyteller.

ABOUT EAGLE ROCK
Eagle Vision is an imprint of Eagle Rock Entertainment, the world-leading producer and distributor of music-related audiovisual content. Founded in 1997, the multi-award-winning company completes over 50 productions a year including concerts, documentaries, scripted formats and specials representing over 2,000 hours of programming. The vast catalogue includes work by award-winning filmmakers such as Martin Scorsese, Brett Morgan, Paul Dugdale, Stanley Nelson and Bob Smeaton. Eagle Rock has worked alongside a variety of artists including the Rolling Stones, Madonna, Jay Z, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, Frank Sinatra, Black Sabbath and Imagine Dragons. For more information visit www.eagle-rock.com.

ABOUT TH ENTERTAINMENT LLC
TH Entertainment LLC an internationally recognized, award winning television production and distribution company based in Nashville and Toronto. Our work includes feature documentaries, series & specials, live performances, authorized biographies, anthologies and commercials.

Track Listing
Are You Ready For The Country?
Lonesome, On’ry and Mean
Waymore’s Blues
Amanda
A Long Time Ago
Jack A Diamonds
Tonight The Bottle Let Me Down
This Time
You Asked Me To
I’ve Always Been Crazy
Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out Of Hand
Good Hearted Woman
Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys
Luckenbach, Texas
Honky Tonk Heroes
Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way

Sights and Sounds: Grace Potter, The New Pornographers, Waylon Jennings & Merle Haggard

The 50th Anniversary deluxe reissue of The Beatles' Abbey Road is obviously grabbing lots of attention in the music universe today, but there are some other notable news items worthy of your attention too.


Make sure to check out Grace Potter's great new song "Release," just out today. The song is off her forthcoming album Daylight set for release next month...Robert Kinsler

New Grace Potter Track 'Release' Out Today 

Forthcoming album DAYLIGHT

due on October 25, 2019

 

TICKETS FOR POTTER'S 2020 NORTH AMERICAN 

TOUR ON-SALE TODAY

Grace Potter
Photo Credit : Pamela Neal

LOS ANGELES, CA - September 27^th, 2019 - Grace Potter's stark and powerful new piano ballad "Release" is available today. The new song off her forthcoming album Daylight "can only be described as holy," says ESQUIRE in a recent interview with the acclaimed singer/songwriter. Daylight, Potter's first new album in four years, is due for release via Fantasy Records on October 25th, 2019. Tickets for Potter's recently announced North American headlining tour are on-sale starting today. The tour kicks off January 8th, 2020 in Charleston, South Carolina and will hit theatres in major cities nationwide. Full routing below. For ticket information, head to https://www.gracepotter.com/.

 

An acclaimed songwriter and electrifying performer, Potter has been described by SPIN as "one of the greatest living voices in rock today." Over the course of her career, the Burlington, VT native has commanded stages around the world including Coachella, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Rock in Rio and her own thriving music festival, Burlington's Grand Point North, which just celebrated its ninth year. 

 

The major touring throughout 2020 will support the release of Daylight. Produced by her husband Eric Valentine, (Keith Urban, Gwen Stefani, Maroon 5) Daylight is a soul-inflected, deeply personal collection of songs that capture a particularly tumultuous period in her life - from the breakup of her band and a divorce - to more joyful events like a new marriage and the birth of her first child.

 

Grace wrote the album's 11 tracks with the help of renowned songwriter Mike Busbee (Pink, Maren Morris) who co-wrote the powerful first single "Love is Love," which PASTE asserted is "the kind of song that'll stop you dead in your tracks," "Everyday Love," and "Release." The gorgeous new track "Release" was written while Potter was in the process of moving out of her home. The song transmits a quiet sorrow but ultimately finds its resolution in a lyric supplied by Busbee ("I hope that someday/The sun will shine again/And you'll release me too").

Longtime collaborators Benny Yurco and Matt Musty contribute guitar and drums respectively with Benmont Tench and Larry Goldings on keys as well as Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig from Lucius providing background vocals.

 

In addition to "Love Is Love", Potter recently released another brand-new track from the album called "Back To Me," which ESQUIRE called in a feature length profile, "a triumphant soul-burner." Watch her mesmerizing 3-song acoustic performance for PASTE HERE.

Pre-order Daylight  HERE

Grace Potter - 2020 Tour Dates

January 08                  Charleston, SC @ Charleston Music Hall

January 09                  St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live

January 10                  Lake Buena Vista, FL @ House of Blues

January 11                  Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution

January 12                  Key West, FL @ Sunset Green Lawn

January 15                  Jacksonville, FL @ Florida Theatre

January 16                  Raleigh, NC @ The Ritz

January 17                  Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore

January 18                  Atlanta, GA @ The Tabernacle

January 19                  Asheville, NC @ The Orange Peel

January 22                  Cincinnati, OH @ Taft Theatre

January 23                  McKees Rocks, PA @ Roxian Theatre

January 24                  Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore

January 25                  Washington, DC @ Anthem

January 28                  New Haven, CT @ College Street Music Hall

January 29                  Portland, ME @ State Theatre

January 30                  Albany, NY @ The Egg

January 31                  Boston, MA @ House of Blues

February 01                New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre

February 04                Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue Theatre

February 05                Grand Rapids, MI @ The Intersection

February 06                Milwaukee, WI @ Pabst Theater

February 07                Chicago, IL @ Riviera Theatre

February 08                St. Paul, MN @ Palace Theatre

February 09                Des Moines, IA @ Hoyt Sherman Place

February 12                Tulsa, OK @ Cain's Ballroom

February 13                Oklahoma City, OK @ The Jones Assembly

February 14                Houston, TX @ House of Blues

February 15                Austin, TX @ Austin City Limits Live at Moody Theater

February 18                Birmingham, AL @ Iron City

February 19                Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium

February 20                St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant

March 12                     Vancouver, BC Canada @ Commodore Ballroom

March 13                     Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom

March 14                     Seattle, WA @ Showbox

March 15                     Eugene, OR @ McDonald Theatre

March 18                     San Diego, CA @ Observatory NorthPark

March 19                     Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey Theatre

March 20                     Stateline, NV @ MontBleu Resort Showroom

March 21                     Oakland, CA @ Fox Theater

March 24                     Missoula, MT @ The Wilma

March 25                     Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot

March 26                     Aspen, CO @ Belly Up

March 27                     Aspen, CO @ Belly Up

March 28                     Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

The New Pornographers’
In The Morse Code of Brake Lights out today via Collected Works/Concord Records 

BAND ADDS WEST COAST DATES TO U.S. TOUR

Photo credit: Ebru Yildiz

In The Morse Code Of Brake Lights, the highly anticipated new album from critically acclaimed group The New Pornographers, is out now via the band’s own Collected Work Records imprint in partnership with Concord Records.

In celebration of the album, the band is adding a number of dates to their U.S. tour, kicking off their west coast run January 30 at Seattle’s Neptune Theater. The band is also adding a second date in Washington, D.C. following their sold-out show at the 9:30 Club. See below for a complete itinerary, tickets are available for purchase at thenewpornographers.com.

Most recently the band premiered the tracks “One Kind of Solomon” (Listen HERE), “The Surprise Knock” (listen HERE) and “Falling Down The Stairs Of Your Smile” (listen HERE and watch the Mitchell deQuilettes-directed video HERE). Upon the album’s announcement, Stereogum raved that the “power-pop all-star team are back in action” while hailing the “long-running power-pop army of melodically gifted mostly-Canadians.” SPIN praised “One Kind of Solomon” as “a chaotic arena-rock number, with heavy drums immediately reminiscent of bands like U2 and Arcade Fire. Soon enough, shimmering guitars and keyboards peak through a wall-of-sound mix mostly composed of multi-tracked drums and vocals.”

Album art and track list follow below, and the record is available for purchase HERE.

“I was about two-thirds of the way through the record when I began to notice that lyrically so much of it was pointing toward car songs,” notes Newman. “The opening track is ‘You’ll Need a Backseat Driver,’ and that was a metaphor that seemed to be running through other songs, too. Next to the love song, I feel like the car song is one of the most iconic kinds of songs in pop music, from Chuck Berry to the present. There was so much of that throughout it that I started thinking: ‘Oh, no, there’s too many references to cars on this record!’ And then I thought, ‘No, that's good—people might think it’s a concept album.’”

The New Pornographers have released seven studio albums to date including their most recent, Whiteout Conditions. The first album released on their own imprint, Collected Works Records, in partnership with Concord Records, the album received widespread acclaim and was hailed as “rich with new wave synths and closely blended harmonies” by Pitchfork, while Rolling Stone praised its “uplifting three to four minute indie-pop numbers, imbued with lush vocals.”

THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS, IN THE MORSE CODE OF BRAKE LIGHTS 1. You’ll Need A Backseat Driver 2. The Surprise Knock 3. Falling Down The Stairs Of Your Smile 4. Colossus Of Rhodes 5. Higher Beams 6. Dreamlike And On The Rush 7. You Won’t Need Those Where You’re Going 8. Need Some Giants 9. Opening Ceremony 10. One Kind Of Solomon 11. Leather On The Seat

THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS LIVE

September 27	Madison, WI	Majestic Theatre
September 28	Urbana, IL	Pygmalion Music Festival
September 29	Columbia, MO	Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival
October 1	Minneapolis, MN	First Avenue
October 2	Chicago, IL	Vic Theatre
October 3	Detroit, MI	Majestic Theatre
October 5	San Francisco, CA	Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
November 4	Boston, MA	Royale
November 5	Washington, DC	9:30 Club (SOLD OUT)
November 6	Washington, DC	Lincoln Theatre
November 7	Brooklyn, NY	Brooklyn Steel
November 8	Philadelphia, PA	Union Transfer
November 10	Saxaphaw, NC	Haw River Ballroom
November 11	Asheville, NC	The Orange Peel
November 12	Atlanta, GA	Buckhead Theatre
November 14	North Adams, MA	Mass MoCA
January 30	Seattle, WA	Neptune Theatre
January 31	Portland, OR	Roseland Theater
February 3	Los Angeles, CA	The Fonda Theatre
February 4	San Diego, CA	The Observatory North Park
February 5	Phoenix, AZ	The Crescent Ballroom
February 6	Santa Fe, NM	Meow Wolf
February 8	Dallas, TX	Canton Hall
February 9	Houston, TX	White Oak Music Hall
February 10	Austin, TX	Emo's
February 11	Oklahoma City, OK	Tower Theatre
February 12	Kansas City, MO	The Truman
February 13	Omaha, NE	Slowdown
February 15	Englewood, CO	Gothic Theatre
February 16	Salt Lake City, UT	The Depot

New West Records to release Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard performances as part of its 'Live From Austin, TX' series on November 15, 2019

Available on vinyl for the very first time 

New West Records will release two separate archival performances from Country music legends Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard as a part of its acclaimed Live From Austin, TX series on November 15th, 2019. Both live recordings were originally filmed for the legendary PBS television series Austin City Limits and will be issued on vinyl for the very first time.  The recordings have been remastered from original sources and feature liner notes from Austin City Limits producer Terry Lickona.  

 

Waylon Jennings Live From Austin, TX ‘84 documents his first ever appearance on the legendary program, recorded in August of 1984.  The 14-song set features seven Top 10 singles, including two #1 singles, “I’ve Always Been Crazy,” and “I Ain’t Living Long Like This.”  From his liner notes to Waylon Jennings’ Live From Austin, TX ‘84, Terry Lickona states, “Looking back, why did it take ten years to finally lure Waylon Jennings to the Austin City Limits stage for his first performance? Like everything else about the man, he did things his own way - when he was damn good and ready.”

 

Waylon Jennings Live From Austin, TX ‘84 will be released on 180g Standard Black Vinyl, 150g Blue Splatter Colored Vinyl Limited to 500 copies available at Independent Retail, and Limited 150g ‘“Outlaw Swirl” Colored Vinyl available exclusively from Vinyl Me Please.  Waylon Jennings Live From Austin, TX '84 is available for Pre-Order Now Via New West Records. 

 

Merle Haggard Live From Austin, TX ‘78 also documents his very first Austin City Limits performance, recorded in January of 1978.  The 14-song set features five #1 Country singles including “I’m A Lonesome Fugitive,” “Sing Me back Home,” “Cherokee Maiden,” “Farmer’s Daughter,” and “Workin’ Man’s Blues.”  It also features classic Bob Wills songs with Merle on fiddle. 

 

From his liner notes to Merle Haggard Live From Austin, TX ‘78, Lickona offers, “When he stepped onto the Austin City Limits stage for the very first time on that brisk January day in 1978, Merle Haggard was at the top of his game. It had been over a decade since his first national hit, ‘Sing A Sad Song,’ and not that long after ‘Okie from Muskogee’ had firmly planted his music in the public consciousness. He had already been declared ‘Entertainer of the Year’ by both the Country Music Awards and Academy of Country Music – in the same year (1970). He had just released A Tribute to the Best Damn Fiddle Player in the World (Or My Salute to Bob Wills), which sparked a revival of interest in western swing. And with his band, The Strangers, it’s no stretch to say that he had the best live show in country music of his day.”

 

Merle Haggard Live From Austin, TX ‘78 will be released on 180g Standard Black Vinyl, 150g Red Splatter Colored Vinyl Limited to 500 copies available at Independent Retail, and Limited 150g “Orange Blossom” Colored Vinyl available exclusively from Vinyl Me Please.  Merle Haggard Live From Austin, TX '78 is available for Pre-Order Now Via New West Records. 

 

The Austin City Limits archives hold more than 400 concerts, many of them one-of-a-kind performances of rare television appearances by some of the world’s most acclaimed artists. In Addition to DVDs, separate live, audio-only CDs are also available for many of the performances.  New West Records’ Live From Austin, TX series, presenting more than 50 critically acclaimed titles and multiple Gold and Platinum-certified releases, continues its impressive run. Previous releases include Merle Haggard, Jerry Lee Lewis, R.E.M., Steve Earle, Guided By Voices, Widespread Panic, Dwight Yoakam, Fats Domino and many more. 

 

 

Waylon Jennings Live From Austin, TX ‘84 Track Listing 

 

1. Are You Ready For The Country

2. Clyde

3. I Can Get Off On You

4. People Up In Texas

5. It's Not Supposed To Be That Way

6. Don't You Think This Outlaw Bit's Done Got Out Of Hand

7. You Asked Me To

8. Dreaming My Dreams With You

9. Good Hearted Woman

10. I May Be Used (But Baby I Ain't Used Up)

11. Let’s Turn Back The Years

12. Honky Tonk Heroes

13. I Ain't Living Long Like This

14. I've Always Been Crazy

 

Merle Haggard Live From Austin, TX ‘78 Track Listing 

 

1. Working Man Can’t Get Nowhere Today 

2. Silver Wings 

3. I’m A Lonesome Fugitive 

4. Sing Me Back Home 

5. Orange Blossom Special 

6. Old-Fashioned Love 

7. Brain Cloudy Blues 

8. Ramblin’ Fever 

9. Long Black Limousine 

10. Cherokee Maiden 

11. San Antonio Rose 

12. Misery 

13. The Farmers Daughter 

14. Workin’ Man Blues 

 

www.NewWestRecords.com