Reviews

Holiday Review: Cris Jacobs, Francesca Brown, The Warhorses and Christmas on the Lam

By Brian Rock

Ready or not, Christmas is upon us. As a courtesy to all you last minute shoppers (you know who you are,) here’s a few stocking stuffer ideas for the music lover on your list.

Dust to Gold by Cris Jacobs

(for fans of bluesy, rootsy Americana)
Cris Jacobs

Part Townes Van Zandt, part Ronnie Van Zandt with a healthy dose of Lowell George and J.J. Cale; Jacobs melds Soul, Blues, Country, Gospel and Rock into an immensely flavorful musical gumbo. From the slinky, sultry “The Devil Or Jesse James” to the southern rock anthem feel of “Jack The Whistle And The Hammer” to the intimate, bluesy “Cold Carolina,” Jacobs sings with passion and power. The album is chock full of irresistible grooves and rhythms and is guaranteed to get you Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.

crisjacobs.com  |  buy  |  fb

Collide by Francesca Brown

(for fans of Lilith Fair inspired Singer Songwriters)
Francesca Brown

With a Natalie Merchant meets Joni Mitchell voice, Francesca Brown sings earnest, folksy songs about the feminine experience. With an eclectic mix of instruments including slide guitar, harmonica, djembe, and a singing saw (seriously!) Brown creates a richly textured musical backdrop for her velvety vocals. Though singing predominantly about loss and heartbreak, Brown’s voice soothes and comforts and always carries a tone of optimism. Might just be the cure for anyone dealing with a Blue Christmas.

francescabrownmusic.com  |  buy  |  fb

The Warhorses by The Warhorses

(for fans of Southern Rock)
The Warhorses

These High powered Texas troubadours combine the energy and DIY ethos of Reckless Kelly and The Casey Donahew Band. Singing songs about broken hearts and empty bottles, The Warhorses thumb their noses at heartbreak and crank the amps to 11. They make feeling bad feel so good. A perfect gift for anyone having a Hard Candy Christmas.

thewarhorsesmusic.com  |  buy  |  fb

Christmas on the Lam and Other Songs from The Season by Various Artists

Christmas on the Lam

Here’s a little something everyone can feel holly jolly about. These twelve songs of Christmas are better than twelve lords a leaping! Holiday highlights include the fun and flirty “Mittens” by Heather Masse, the Merle Haggard inspired “Christmas To Me” by Dale Watson & His Lonestars, and the Southern Gospel infused “Glory Bound” by The Wailin’ Jennys. The songs range from the sacred (“The Baby Boy” by Jorma Kaukomen) to the saucy (“Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin’” by Bill Kirchen and Austin de Lone.) All the songs on this collection celebrate the season in unique Americana style. With lots of piano, acoustic guitar, banjo, and harmonica, the warm tones of this collection fit perfectly with the warm feelings of the season. So share a copy with someone special and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas!

Buy

Brian Rock

Brian Rock

Brian was raised gypsy style, moving every other year until well after college. As friendships proved to be temporary, Brian found a constant companion in music, wearing the grooves off Beatles and Dylan albums before moving on to Lyle Lovett and Dwight Yokam. Living so often in flux, he has come to value music and lyrics of lasting quality. Not moved by trends or fashion, he is drawn to timeless lyrics and soulful rhythms. Although now settled down, Brian still expresses his gypsy spirit through his writing. He has co-written songs with musician friends he’s met along the way, including several contributions to the 2012 ICMA Album of the Year, Family Album. Brian also writes children’s books and poems, including the Children’s Book Council featured title, The Deductive Detective.
Brian Rock

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