Top Ten Archive
DJs’ Favorites for 2017
The Top Tens of 2017 are in. Find your favorite KBCS DJ’s list here.
Continue reading →Top Ten December 11th – December 17th:
- Las Cafeteras Tastes Like LA Self
- Charlotte Gainsbourg Rest self
- Chris Stapleton From A Room: Volume 2 Mercury Records
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Soul of a Woman Daptone Recording Co.
- Mavis Staples If All I Was Was Black Anti
- Jenny O. Peace Information Holy Trinity Records
- True North Open Road, Broken Heart Self
- Big Thief Capacity Self
- Dan Reeder Nobody Wants to Be You [EP] Oh Boy Records
- Dori Freeman Letters Never Read Blue Hens Music
Top Ten November 17th – December 3rd:
- The Wailin’ Jennys Fifteen Red House
- Boubacar Traoré Dounia Tabolo Lusafrica
- Las Cafeteras Tastes Like LA Self Released
- Curtis Harding Face Your Fear Anti-
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Soul of a Woman Daptone Recording Co.
- Moses Sumney Aromanticism JAGJAGUWAR
- Elliott Brood Ghost Gardens Paper Bag
- Dori Freeman Letters Never Read Blue Hens Music
- Future Islands The Far Field 4AD
- Mavis Staples If All I Was Was Black Anti
Top Ten November 20th – November 26th:
- Jenny O. Peace Information Holy Trinity Records
- Big Thief Capacity Self Released
- Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn Echo In The Valley Rounder
- Future Islands The Far Field 4AD
- Kuinka Stay Up Late (EP) Self Released
- Mavis Staples If All I Was Was Black Anti
- Robert Plant Carry Fire Nonesuch
- This Is The Kit Moonshine Freeze Rough Trade
- True North Open Road, Broken Heart Self Released
- Las Cafeteras Tastes Like LA Self Released
Top Ten November 13th – November 19th:
- Curtis Harding Face Your Fear Anti-
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Soul of a Woman Daptone Recording Co.
- Robert Plant Carry Fire Nonesuch
- Elliott Brood Ghost Gardens Paper Bag
- Las Cafeteras Tastes Like LA Self Released
- Joshua Davis The Way Back Home Soundly Music
- Nai Palm Needle Paw Sony Masterworks
- Moses Sumney Aromanticism JAGJAGUWAR
- This Is The Kit Moonshine Freeze Rough Trade
- Jim Hurst Trio Jht-1 Independent
Top Ten November 6th – November 12th:
- Moses Sumney Aromanticism JAGJAGUWAR
- Curtis Harding Face Your Fear Anti-
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Soul of a Woman Daptone Recording Co.
- Courtney Barnett And Kurt Vile Lotta Sea Lice Milk! Records
- Beck Colors Fonograf Records/Capitol
- Elliott Brood Ghost Gardens Paper Bag
- Kuinka Stay Up Late (EP) Self Released
- Paula Cole Ballads 675 Records
- Robert Plant Carry Fire Nonesuch
- Las Cafeteras Tastes Like LA Self Released
Top Ten October 30th – November 5th:
- Nattali Rize Rebel Frequency Baco Records
- Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn Echo In The Valley Rounder
- Dori Freeman Letters Never Read Blue Hens Music
- Pat Donohue Blue Yonder Bluesky Records
- The Wailin’ Jennys Fifteen Red House
- Courtney Barnett And Kurt Vile Lotta Sea Lice Milk! Records
- Beck Colors Fonograf Records/Capitol
- Las Cafeteras Tastes Like LA Self
- Curtis Harding Face Your Fear Anti-
- Robert Plant Carry Fire Nonesuch
Top Ten October 23rd – October 29th:
- Anna Tivel Small Believer Fluff & Gravy
- Kuinka Stay Up Late (EP) Self
- Dori Freeman Letters Never Read Blue Hens Music
- St. Vincent Masseducation Loma Vista
- Moses Sumney Aromanticism JAGJAGUWAR
- Courtney Barnett And Kurt Vile Lotta Sea Lice Milk! Records
- Las Cafeteras Tastes Like LA Self
- Robert Plant Carry Fire Nonesuch
- Trout Steak Revival Spirit To The Sea Self
- The Wailin’ Jennys Fifteen Red House
Top Ten October 16th – October 22nd:
- Nattali Rize Rebel Frequency Baco Records
- Moses Sumney Aromanticism JAGJAGUWAR
- The Wailin’ Jennys Fifteen Red House
- Anna Tivel Small Believer Fluff & Gravy
- Iron & Wine Beast Epic Sub Pop
- The War On Drugs A Deeper Understanding Atlantic Records
- Ibeyi Ash Self
- Molsky’s Mountain Drifters Molsky’s Mountain Drifters Tree Frog Music
- Paula Boggs Band ‘elixir – The Soulgrass Sessions’ Independent
- Robert Plant Carry Fire Nonesuch
Top Ten October 9th – October 15th:
- Iron & Wine Beast Epic Sub Pop
- Anna Tivel Small Believer Fluff & Gravy
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- Hiss Golden Messenger Hallelujah Anyhow Merge Records
- Ibeyi Ash Self
- Moses Sumney Aromanticism JAGJAGUWAR
- The Wailin’ Jennys Fifteen Red House
- Amadou & Mariam La Confusion Because Music
- Kuinka Stay Up Late (EP) Self
- Molsky’s Mountain Drifters Molsky’s Mountain Drifters Tree Frog Music
Top Ten October 2nd – October 8th:
- The Mynabirds Be Here Now Saddle Creek
- Iron & Wine Beast Epic Sub Pop
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- John Reischman & The Jaybirds On That Other Green Shore Corvus
- Jolie Holland & Samantha Parton Wildflower Blues Cinquefoil Records
- Hamish Napier The River Strathspey
- Anna Tivel Small Believer Fluff & Gravy
- Chris Hillman Bidin’ My Time Rounder
- Richard Thompson Acoustic Classics II Beeswing
- The War On Drugs A Deeper Understanding Atlantic Records
Top Ten September 25th – October 1st:
- John Reischman & The Jaybirds On That Other Green Shore Corvus
- Juanita Stein America Handwritten Records
- Lydia Ramsey Bandita Self
- Arcade Fire Everything Now Sonovox Records
- Bruce Cockburn Bone On Bone High Romance
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- Saint Etienne Home Counties Independent
- Amber Cross Savage On The Downhill Self
- Dale Ann Bradley Dale Ann Bradley Pinecastle
- Eilen Jewell Down Hearted Blues Signature Sounds
Top Ten September 18th – September 24th:
- Eilen Jewell Down Hearted Blues Signature Sounds
- Iron & Wine Beast Epic Sub Pop
- Josh Ritter Gathering Pytheas Records
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- The Mynabirds Be Here Now Saddle Creek
- Arcade Fire Everything Now Sonovox Records
- Gregg Allman Southern Blood Rounder
- JD McPherson Undivided Heart And Soul New West
- The War On Drugs A Deeper Understanding Atlantic Records
- Tony Allen The Source Blue Note
Top Ten September 11th – September 17th:
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- Iron & Wine Beast Epic Sub Pop
- The War On Drugs A Deeper Understanding Atlantic Records
- Arcade Fire Everything Now Sonovox Records
- Gregg Allman Southern Blood Rounder
- Lila Downs Salón, Lágrimas Y Deseo Sony Music
- Eilen Jewell Down Hearted Blues Signature Sounds
- KC Groves Happy Little Trees Self
- Lilly Hiatt Trinity Lane New West Records
- The Mynabirds Be Here Now Saddle Creek
Top Ten September 4th – September 10th:
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- Eilen Jewell Down Hearted Blues Signature Sounds
- Flatt Lonesome Silence In These Walls Mountain Home
- Iron & Wine Beast Epic Sub Pop
- John Reischman & The Jaybirds On That Other Green Shore Corvus
- Waxahatchee Out In The Storm Independent
- Gregg Allman Southern Blood Rounder
- Joan Osborne Songs of Bob Dylan Womanly Hips
- Lilly Hiatt Trinity Lane New West Records
- Saint Etienne Home Counties Independent
Top Ten August 28th – September 3rd
- John Reischman & The Jaybirds On That Other Green Shore Corvus
- Juanita Stein America Handwritten Records
- Lydia Ramsey Bandita Self-Released
- Arcade Fire Everything Now Sonovox Records
- Bruce Cockburn Bone On Bone High Romance
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- Saint Etienne Home Counties Independent
- Amber Cross Savage On The Downhill Self-Released
- Dale Ann Bradley Dale Ann Bradley Pinecastle
- Eilen Jewell Down Hearted Blues Signature Sounds
Top Ten August 21st – August 27th:
- Eilen Jewell Down Hearted Blues Independent
- John Reischman & The Jaybirds On That Other Green Shore Independent
- Arcade Fire Everything Now Sonovox Records
- Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver Life is a Story Independent
- Amber Cross Savage On The Downhill Independent
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- Gregg Allman Southern Blood Rounder
- Lydia Ramsey Bandita Self Released
- Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real Lukas Nelson & Promise Fantasy
- Waxahatchee Out In The Storm Independent
Top Ten August 14th – August 20th:
- Glen Campbell Adiós Universal Music
- Lydia Ramsey Bandita Self
- Eilen Jewell Down Hearted Blues Independent
- Gregg Allman Southern Blood Rounder
- Jeff Tweedy Together at Last dBpm Records
- Juana Molina Halo Independent
- Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real Lukas Nelson & Promise Fantasy
- Waxahatchee Out In The Storm Independent
- Chicano Batman Freedom Is Free ATO
- David Rawlings Poor David’s Almanack Independent
Top Ten August 7th – August 13th:
- Glen Campbell Adiós Universal Music
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Easy Eye Sound
- Benjamin Booker Witness Unknown Label
- Moot Davis Hierarchy of Crows Independent
- Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real Selections From – Lukas Nelson & Promise Fantasy
- The Mynabirds Be Here Now (Part 1) Independent
- Jim Lauderdale London Southern Sky Crunch
- Waxahatchee Out In The Storm Independent
- Ben Hunter & Joe Seamons With Phil Wiggins A Black & Tan Ball Unknown Label
- Lydia Ramsey Bandita Self Released
Top Ten July 31st – August 6th:
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Easy Eye Sound
- Lydia Ramsey Bandita Self Released
- Glen Campbell Adiós Universal Music
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Self
- The Mynabirds Be Here Now (Part 1) Independent
- Benjamin Booker Witness Independent
- Waxahatchee Out In The Storm Independent
- Aimee Mann Mental Illness SuperEgo Records
- Arcade Fire Everything Now Sonovox Records
- Saint Etienne Home Counties Independent
Top Ten July 24th – July 30th:
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Easy Eye Sound
- Waxahatchee Out In The Storm Independent
- Benjamin Booker Witness Independent
- Elise LeBlanc Runaway Kites Self
- Making Movies I Am Another You Independent
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Self
- Tape Stacks Coastal Cities Self
- The Mynabirds Be Here Now (Part 1) Independent
- Eddie Adcock Vintage Banjo Jam Patuxent Music
- Dale Ann Bradley Dale Ann Bradley Pinecastle
Top Ten July 17th – July 23rd:
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Easy Eye Sound
- Benjamin Booker Witness Independent
- Lydia Ramsey Bandita Self
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Self
- Tape Stacks Coastal Cities Self
- Meklit Hadero When The People Move The Music Moves Too Six Degrees
- Jason Isbell The Nashville Sound Independent
- Saint Etienne Home Counties Independent
- Steve Earle & The Dukes So You Wannabe an Outlaw Warner Bros. Records
- Waxahatchee Out In The Storm Independent
Top Ten July 10th – July 16th:
- Bedouine Bedouine Spacebomb
- Joan Shelley Joan Shelley No Quarter Records
- Benjamin Booker Witness Independent
- Jason Isbell The Nashville Sound Independent
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Self
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Easy Eye Sound
- Meklit Hadero When The People Move The Music Moves Too Six Degrees
- Holly Macve Golden Eagle Bella Union
- Iron & Wine Call it Dreamin – Single Subpop
- Tape Stacks Coastal Cities Self
Top Ten July 3rd – July 9th:
- Jason Isbell The Nashville Sound Independent
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Independent
- Meklit Hadero When The People Move The Music Moves Too Six Degrees
- Holly Macve Golden Eagle Bella Union
- Joan Shelley Joan Shelley No Quarter Records
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Independent
- Trombone Shorty Parking Lot Symphony Blue Note
- Alastair Moock Alastair Moock Independent
- Benjamin Booker Witness Independent
- Steve Earle & The Dukes So You Wannabe an Outlaw Warner Bros. Records
Top Ten June 26th – July 2nd:
- Benjamin Booker Witness Independent
- Jason Isbell The Nashville Sound Independent
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Independent
- Aimee Mann Mental Illness SuperEgo Records
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Independent
- Meklit Hadero When The People Move The Music Moves Too Six Degrees
- Tobias The Owl Every Eye Is A Universe London Tone Music
- Holly Macve Golden Eagle Bella Union
- Pokey LaFarge Manic Revelations Independent
- Rachel Baiman Shame Independent
Top Ten June 19th – June 25th:
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Independent
- Holly Macve Golden Eagle Bella Union
- All Our Exes Live In Texas When We Fall Universal
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Independent
- Jason Isbell The Nashville Sound Independent
- Rachel Baiman Shame Independent
- Joan Shelley Joan Shelley No Quarter Records
- Aimee Mann Mental Illness SuperEgo Records
- Benjamin Booker Witness Independent
- Trombone Shorty Parking Lot Symphony Blue Note
Top Ten June 12th – June 18th:
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Unknown Label
- All Our Exes Live In Texas When We Fall Universal
- Dan Auerbach Waiting On A Song Unknown Label
- Robyn Hitchcock Robyn Hitchcock YepRoc
- Jason Isbell The Nashville Sound Unknown Label
- Tobias The Owl Every Eye Is A Universe London Tone Music
- Slaid Cleaves Ghost on the Car Radio Candy House Media
- Rachel Baiman Shame Unknown Label
- Oumou Sangare Mogoya World Circuit Records
- Tape Stacks Coastal Cities Self
Top Ten June 5th – June 11th:
- Bash & Pop Anything Could Happen Fat Possum
- Little Dragon Season High Loma Vista Recordings
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Independent
- Forró In The Dark Sandcastle Nacional
- Justin Townes Earle Kids In The Street Independent
- Holly Macve Golden Eagle Bella Union
- Robyn Hitchcock Robyn Hitchcock YepRoc
- Lindsay Straw The Fairest Flower Of Womankind Independent
- Pokey LaFarge Manic Revelations Independent
- Joan Shelley Joan Shelley No Quarter Records
Top Ten May 29th – June 4th:
- Justin Townes Earle Kids In The Street Independent
- The Secret Sisters You Don’t Own Me Anymore Independent
- Robyn Hitchcock Robyn Hitchcock YepRoc
- Blondie Pollinator Independent
- Chastity Brown Silhouette Of Sirens Red House
- Jason Isbell The Nashville Sound Independent
- Julia Holter In the Same Room Domino Documents
- Little Dragon Season High Loma Vista Recordings
- Pokey LaFarge Manic Revelations Independent
- Trombone Shorty Parking Lot Symphony Blue Note
Top Ten May 22nd – May 28th:
- Naomi Wachira Song Of Lament Doreli Music
- Justin Townes Earle Kids In The Street Independent
- The Shins Heartworms Columbia
- Chastity Brown Silhouette Of Sirens Red House
- Feist Pleasure Polydor France
- Little Dragon Season High Loma Vista Recordings
- Ray Davies Americana Sony
- Goitse Inspired by Chance Self
- Jeb Loy Nichols Country Hustle City Country City
- Whitney Mongé Stone Independent
Top Ten May 15th – May 21st:
- Justin Townes Earle Kids In The Street Independent
- Naomi Wachira Song Of Lament Doreli Music
- Little Dragon Season High Loma Vista Recordings
- Mavis Staples I’ll Take You There Mavis Staples I’ll Take You There: An Al Blackbird Production
- The Shins Heartworms Columbia
- Whitney Mongé Stone Independent
- Hanneke Cassel Trip To Walden Pond Independent
- Shannon McNally Black Irish Independent
- Tobias The Owl Every Eye Is A Universe London Tone Music
- Willie Nelson God’s Problem Child Independent
Top Ten May 8th – May 14th:
- Robyn Hitchcock Robyn Hitchcock YepRoc
- Naomi Wachira Song Of Lament Doreli Music
- Whitney Mongé Stone Self Released
- The Shins Heartworms Columbia
- Chastity Brown Silhouette Of Sirens Red House
- Hanneke Cassel Trip To Walden Pond Self Released
- Hurray For The Riff Raff The Navigator Self Released
- Justin Townes Earle Kids In The Street Self Released
- Laura Marling Semper Femina Kobalt Music
- Little Dragon Season High Loma Vista Recordings
Top Ten May 1st – May 7th:
- Hurray For The Riff Raff The Navigator Independent
- The Shins Heartworms Columbia
- Sera Cahoone From Where I Started Sub Pop
- Robyn Hitchcock Robyn Hitchcock YepRoc
- Ray Davies Americana Sony
- Hanneke Cassel Trip To Walden Pond Independent
- Laura Marling Semper Femina Kobalt Music
- Whitney Mongé Stone Independent
- Naomi Wachira Song Of Lament Doreli Music
- Little Dragon Season High Loma Vista Recordings
Top Ten April 24th – 30th:
- Hurray For The Riff Raff The Navigator Independent
- Tim O’Brien Where the River Meets the Road Howdy Skies
- Sera Cahoone From Where I Started Sub Pop
- Ray Davies Americana Sony
- Laura Marling Semper Femina Kobalt Music
- Willie Nelson God’s Problem Child Independent
- John Blake, Mairead Hurley, Nathan Gourl The Truckley Howl Self
- Gibson Brothers In The Ground Rounder
- Lindi Ortega Til the Goin’ Gets Gone Shadowbox Music
- Whitney Mongé Stone Independent
Top Ten April 17th – 23rd
- Valerie June The Order Of Time Concord Music Group
- The Shins Heartworms Columbia
- Hurray For The Riff Raff The Navigator Independent
- Gibson Brothers In The Ground Rounder
- Lindi Ortega Til the Goin’ Gets Gone Shadowbox Music
- Shelby Earl The Man Who Made Himself A Name Nine Mile Records
- Fine Company In Fine Company Self
- Laura Marling Semper Femina Kobalt Music
- Whitney Mongé Stone Independent
- Sera Cahoone From Where I Started Sub Pop
Top Ten April 10th – 16th
- Sera Cahoone From Where I Started Sub Pop
- Hurray For The Riff Raff The Navigator Independent
- Highway Prayer: A Tribute To Adam Carrol Highway Prayer: A Tribute To Adam Carrol Eight 30 Records
- Valerie June The Order Of Time Concord Music Group
- Joy Mills Band Coming Up (EP) Self
- The Shins Heartworms Columbia
- Whitney Mongé Stone Independent
- Father John Misty Pure Comedy Sub Pop
- Laura Marling Semper Femina Kobalt Music
- Tim O’Brien Where the River Meets the Road Howdy Skies
Top Ten April 3rd – April 9th :
- Hurray For The Riff Raff The Navigator Independent
- Sera Cahoone From Where I Started Sub Pop
- Valerie June The Order Of Time Concord Music Group
- Jesca Hoop Memories Are Now Sub Pop
- Shelby Earl The Man Who Made Himself A Name Nine Mile Records
- Laura Marling Semper Femina Kobalt Music
- Tim O’Brien Where the River Meets the Road Howdy Skies
- Bridget Kearney Won’t Let You Down Signature Sounds
- Joy Mills Band Coming Up (EP) Self
- Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives Way Out West Superlatone Records
Top Ten March 6th – March 12th:
- Nikki Lane Highway Queen New West
- Valerie June The Order Of Time Concord Music Group
- Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives Way Out West Superlatone Records
- Jesca Hoop Memories Are Now Sub Pop
- Bridget Kearney Won’t Let You Down Signature Sounds
- Alison Krauss Windy City Capitol
- Rose Cousins Natural Conclusion Independent
- Sallie Ford Soul Sick Vanguard
- Thievery Corporation The Temple of I & I Eighteenth Street Lounge Music
- Shelby Earl The Man Who Made Himself A Name Nine Mile Records\
Top Ten February 27th – March 5th:
- Valerie June The Order Of Time Concord Music Group
- Thievery Corporation The Temple of I & I Eighteenth Street Lounge Music
- Rhiannon Giddens Freedom Highway – EP Nonesuch
- Alison Krauss Windy City Capitol
- Nikki Lane Highway Queen New West
- Jesca Hoop Memories Are Now Sub Pop
- Shelby Earl The Man Who Made Himself A Name Nine Mile Records
- Bridget Kearney Won’t Let You Down Signature Sounds
- Rose Cousins Natural Conclusion Independent
- Sallie Ford Soul Sick Vanguard
Top Ten February 13th – February 19th:
- Nikki Lane Highway Queen New West
- Rhiannon Giddens Freedom Highway – EP Nonesuch
- Jesca Hoop Memories Are Now Sub Pop
- Rose Cousins Natural Conclusion Unknown Label
- Sallie Ford Soul Sick Vanguard
- Bridget Kearney Won’t Let You Down Signature Sounds
- Youssou N’Dour Africa Rekk Sony
- Alison Perkins And Nicolas Brown All Covered With Moss Self
- David Francey Empty Train Laker Music
- Quetzal The Eternal Getdown Smithsonian Folkways
Top Ten January 31th – February 5th:
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Independent
- Nikki Lane Highway Queen New West
- Solange A Seat At The Table Columbia
- Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats A Little Something More From Stax
- Rose Cousins Natural Conclusion Independent
- The Head and the Heart Signs of Light Warner Bros. Records Inc.
- Hiss Golden Messenger Heart Like A Levee Merge
- Jim James Eternally Even ATO
- Kishi Bashi Sonderlust Joyful Noise Recordings
- The W Lovers The W Lovers Lovewood
Top Ten January 24th – January 30th:
- Solange A Seat At The Table Columbia
- Alison Perkins And Nicolas Brown All Covered With Moss Independent
- Jim James Eternally Even ATO
- Ladysmith Black Mambazo Walking In The Footsteps Of Our Fathers Independent
- Various Artists Woody Guthrie’s Roll Columbia: 26 Northwest Songs Smithsonian Folkways
- The W Lovers The W Lovers Lovewood
- Anderson .Paak Malibu Obe
- Balsam Range Mountain Voodoo Mountain Home
- Lambchop Flotus Merge
- Nikki Lane Highway Queen New West
Top Ten January 10th – January 16th:
- Fetsum Light In A Dark Place – EP Sonar Kollektiv
- Claire Lynch North By South Compass
- Michael Cleveland Fiddler’s Dream Compass
- Jim James Eternally Even ATO
- Solange A Seat At The Table Columbia
- Gillian Welch Boots No. 1: The Official Revival Bootle Acony
- Balsam Range Mountain Voodoo Mountain Home
- Kristin Scott Benson Stringworks Mountain Home
- Nathan Gourley and Joey Abarta with Owen Copley Street Self
- Lambchop Flotus Merge
Top Ten January 3rd – January 9th
- Fetsum Light In A Dark Place – EP Sonar Kollektiv
- Jim James Eternally Even ATO
- Gillian Welch Boots No. 1: The Official Revival Bootle Acony
- Solange A Seat At The Table Columbia
- Claire Lynch North By South Compass
- Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats A Little Something More From Stax
- Michael Cleveland Fiddler’s Dream Compass
- Anderson .Paak Malibu Obe
- Balsam Range Mountain Voodoo Mountain Home
- Lambchop Flotus Merge
Top Ten December 27th – January 2nd:
- Fetsum Light In A Dark Place – EP Sonar Kollektiv
- Solange A Seat At The Table Columbia
- Anderson .Paak Malibu Obe
- Jamie Lidell Building A Beginning Jajulin
- Jim James Eternally Even ATO
- Miranda Lambert The Weight Of These Wings (CD 1) RCA
- Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats A Little Something More From Stax
- The Winterlings Poems That Live As People Independent
- Claire Lynch North By South Compass
- Gillian Welch Boots No. 1: The Official Revival Bootle Acony
Top Ten December 19th – December 26th:
- Fetsum Light In A Dark Place – EP Sonar Kollektiv
- Miranda Lambert The Weight Of These Wings RCA
- Jamie Lidell Building A Beginning Jajulin
- Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats A Little Something More From Stax
- Claire Lynch North By South Compass
- Jim James Eternally Even ATO
- Gillian Welch Boots No. 1: The Official Revival Bootle Acony
- The Rolling Stones Blue & Lonesome Interscope
- Audie Blaylock And Redline The Road That Winds Independent
- Solange A Seat At The Table Columbia
Top Ten November 28th – December 4th:
- Lee Fields & The Expressions Special Night Big Crown
- Claire Lynch North By South Compass
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Independent
- Red Tail Ring Fall Away Blues Earthwork Music
- Kate Rusby Life In A Paper Boat Pure
- Alsarah & The Nubatones Manara Wonderwheel
- Fetsum Light In A Dark Place – EP Sonar Kollektiv
- Jamie Lidell Building A Beginning Jajulin
- The Pretenders Alone BMG
- T Sisters T Sisters Independent
Top Ten November 21st – November 27th:
- Lee Fields & The Expressions Special Night Big Crown
- The Pretenders Alone BMG
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Tender Loving Empire
- David Crosby Lighthouse Ground Up/Verve
- T Sisters T Sisters Independent
- Heidi Muller & Bob Webb Up Hurricane Creek Independent
- Kate Rusby Life In A Paper Boat Pure
- Alejandro Escovedo Burn Something Beautiful Fantasy
- Kishi Bashi Sonderlust Joyful Noise Recordings
- A Tribe Called Red We Are The Halluci Nation Independent
Top Ten November 14th – November 20th:
- Lee Fields & The Expressions Special Night Big Crown
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Independent
- T Sisters T Sisters Independent
- The Head and the Heart Signs of Light Warner Bros. Records Inc.
- Kishi Bashi Sonderlust Joyful Noise Recordings
- The Pretenders Alone BMG
- Kate Rusby Life In A Paper Boat Pure
- Clinton Fearon This Morning Boogie Brown
- Courtney Granger Beneath Still Waters Valcour
- Jim Lauderdale This Changes Everything Sky Crunch
Top Ten November 7th – November 13th:
- Lee Fields & The Expressions Special Night Big Crown
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Tender Loving Empire
- The Pretenders Alone BMG
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- T Sisters T Sisters Indpendent
- Kishi Bashi Sonderlust Joyful Noise Recordings
- Van Morrison Keep Me Singing Exile
- Blind Pilot And Then Like Lions ATO
- The Head and the Heart Signs of Light Warner Bros. Records Inc.
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
Top Ten October 31st – November 6th:
- The Pretenders Alone BMG
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Unknown Label
- The Head and the Heart Signs of Light Warner Bros. Records Inc.
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- Jonatha Brooke Midnight. Hallelujah. Independent
- We Banjo 3 String Theory Self
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
- Kishi Bashi Sonderlust Joyful Noise Recordings
- Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms Innocent Road West Sound
- John Prine For Better, Or Worse Oh Boy
Top Ten October 24th – October 30th:
- The Frightnrs Nothing More To Say Daptone Recording Co.
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- Tall Heights Neptune Sony Music Entertainment
- Blue Highway Original Traditional Rounder
- Blind Pilot And Then Like Lions ATO
- Chatham County Line Autumn Yep Roc
- The Head and the Heart Signs of Light Warner Bros. Records Inc.
- Kate Rusby Life In A Paper Boat Pure
Top Ten October 17th – October 23rd:
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Unknown Label
- The Frightnrs Nothing More To Say Daptone Recording Co.
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- Blue Highway Original Traditional Rounder
- Chatham County Line Autumn Yep Roc
- The Head and the Heart Signs of Light Warner Bros. Records Inc.
- John Prine For Better, Or Worse Oh Boy
- Kate Rusby Life In A Paper Boat Pure
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
Top Ten October 10th – October 16th:
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- The Frightnrs Nothing More To Say Daptone Recording Co.
- Y La Bamba Ojos Del Sol Independent
- Mandolin Orange Blindfaller Yep Roc
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- Tall Heights Neptune Sony Music Entertainment
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
- John Prine For Better, Or Worse Oh Boy
- Billy Bragg And Joe Henry Shine A Light: Field Recordings Cooking Vinyl
Top Ten October 3rd – October 9th:
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- The Frightnrs Nothing More To Say Daptone Recording Co.
- Michael Kiwanuka Love & Hate Interscope
- Blind Pilot And Then Like Lions ATO
- Tall Heights Neptune Sony Music Entertainment
- Adam Steffey Here To Stay Mountain Home
- Mandolin Orange Blindfaller Yep Roc
- Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt & Emmylou Harris Trio (CD 1) Warner Bros.
Top Ten September 26th – October 2nd:
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- The Frightnrs Nothing More To Say Daptone Recording Co.
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
- Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt & Emmylou Harris Trio II (CD 2) Warner
- Ralph Samuelson, Yoko Hiraoka The Universal Flute innova
- Tall Heights Neptune Sony Music Entertainment
- Blue Highway Original Traditional Rounder
- David Holt & Josh Goforth Good Medicine High Windy Audio
Top Ten September 19th – September 25th:
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
- The Frightnrs Nothing More To Say Daptone Recording Co.
- Flock Of Dimes If You See Me, Say Yes Partisan
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Sea Of Noise Records Label LLC
- John Scofield Country For Old Men Impluse/Universal France
- Michael Kiwanuka Love & Hate Interscope
- Wilco Schmilco ANTI-
- Chatham County Line Autumn Yep Roc
Top Ten September 12th – September 18th:
- Michael Kiwanuka Love & Hate Interscope
- The Frightnrs Nothing More To Say Daptone Recording Co.
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- Flock Of Dimes If You See Me, Say Yes Partisan
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
- Blind Pilot And Then Like Lions ATO
- David Holt & Josh Goforth Good Medicine High Windy Audio
- John Prine For Better, Or Worse Oh Boy
- Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt & Emmylou Harris The Complete Trio Collection (Deluxe) (C Warner
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
Top Ten September 5th – September 11th:
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- Michael Kiwanuka Love & Hate Interscope
- Skye & Ross Skye & Ross Independent
- Tall Heights Neptune Sony Music Entertainment
- Courtney Marie Andrews Honest Life Mama Bird
- Bat For Lashes The Bride Warner
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- Adam Steffey Here To Stay Mountain Home
- Karl Blau Introducing Karl Blau Self
- Erynn Marshall Greasy Creek Dittyville
Top Ten August 29th – September 4th:
- Skye & Ross Skye & Ross Independent
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- Joseph I’m Alone, No You’re Not ATO
- Michael Kiwanuka Love & Hate Interscope
- David Holt & Josh Goforth Good Medicine High Windy Audio
- Betty Davis The Columbia Years 1968-1969 Light in the Attic
- Sabrina Starke Sabrina Starke Zip
- Anna & Elizabeth Sun To Sun Independent
- The Avett Brothers True Sadness American Recordings
- Erynn Marshall Greasy Creek Dittyville
Top Ten August 22nd – August 28th
- Michael Kiwanuka Love & Hate Interscope
- Bat For Lashes The Bride Warner
- Adam Steffey Here To Stay Mountain Home
- Blue Highway Original Traditional Rounder
- The Earls Of Leicester Rattle & Roar Rounder
- Amos Lee Spirit Republic
- The Analog Affair When You Go Self
- Anna & Elizabeth Sun To Sun Independent
- The Avett Brothers True Sadness American Recordings
- Robert Glasper Everything’s Beautiful Sony
Top Ten August 15th – August 21st:
- Bat For Lashes The Bride Warner
- Karl Blau Introducing Karl Blau Self
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Crater Talk To Me So I Can Fall Asleep Help Yourself
- Eliot Sumner Information Island
- Sabrina Starke Sabrina Starke Zip
- Eric Bibb And North Country Far With Dan The Happiest Man In The World Stony Plain
- Bryan Sutton The More I Learn Sugar Hill
- Anna & Elizabeth Sun To Sun Independent
- The Avett Brothers True Sadness American Recordings
Top Ten August 8th – August 14th:
- Bryan Sutton The More I Learn Sugar Hill
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Crater Talk To Me So I Can Fall Asleep Help Yourself
- O’Connor Band with Mark O’Connor Coming Home Concord
- Karl Blau Introducing Karl Blau Self
- Sabrina Starke Sabrina Starke Zip
- Anna & Elizabeth Sun To Sun Independent
- The Earls Of Leicester Rattle & Roar Rounder
- Marley’s Ghost The Woodstock Sessions Safe Arts
- Erynn Marshall Greasy Creek Dittyville
Top Ten August 1st – August 7th:
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Crater Talk To Me So I Can Fall Asleep Help Yourself
- Empty Houses Daydream Sargent House
- Eliot Sumner Information Island
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent Sugar Hill
- Jonah Smith Easy Prey Music Road
- Eric Bibb And North Country Far With Dan The Happiest Man In The World Stony Plain
- The Monkees Good Times! Rhino
- Allen Toussaint American Tunes Nonesuch
- Sara Watkins Young In All The Wrong Ways New West
Top Ten July 25th – July 31st:
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Karl Blau Introducing Karl Blau Self
- Lori McKenna The Bird & The Rifle CN
- Bryan Sutton The More I Learn Sugar Hill
- Jonah Smith Easy Prey Music Road
- Eliot Sumner Information Island
- Marley’s Ghost The Woodstock Sessions Safe Arts
- Sam Bush Storyman Sugar Hill
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent Sugar Hill
- Kraak & Smaak Juicy Fruit Jalapeno
Top Ten July 18th – July 24th:
- Sara Watkins Young In All The Wrong Ways New West
- The Avett Brothers True Sadness American Recordings
- Michael Franti & Spearhead Soulrocker Fantasy
- Sabrina Starke Sabrina Starke Zip
- Bryan Sutton The More I Learn Sugar Hill
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Paul Simon Stranger To Stranger Concord
- Eliot Sumner Information Island
- The Earls Of Leicester Rattle & Roar Rounder
- Robert Ellis Robert Ellis New West
Top Ten July 11th – July 17th:
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent Sugar Hill
- Robert Ellis Robert Ellis New West
- Sabrina Starke Sabrina Starke Zip
- Adia Victoria Beyond The Bloodhounds Atlantic
- Sara Watkins Young In All The Wrong Ways New West
- JD Allen Americana Savant
- Beth Orton Kidsticks Anti-
- Day Of The Dead (Various) Day Of The Dead 4AD
- Leyla McCalla A Day for the Hunter, A Day for the Prey Independent
Top Ten July 4th – July 10th:
- Beth Orton Kidsticks Anti-
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Sara Watkins Young In All The Wrong Ways New West
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent Sugar Hill
- Leyla McCalla A Day for the Hunter, A Day for the Prey Unknown Label
- The Monkees Good Times! Rhino
- Allen Toussaint American Tunes Nonesuch
- Adia Victoria Beyond The Bloodhounds Atlantic
- Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice Poor Boy’s Pleasure Mountain Fever
- Corinne Bailey Rae The Heart Speaks In Whispers Caroline
Top Ten June 27th – July 3rd:
- Allen Toussaint American Tunes Nonesuch
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs Anti-
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent Sugar Hill
- Beth Orton Kidsticks Anti-
- Robert Ellis Robert Ellis New West
- The Soul Of John Black Early In The Moanin’ Cadabra
- Eric Bibb And North Country Far With Dan The Happiest Man In The World Stony Plain
- Kaia Kater Nine Pin Kingswood
- Lucy Wainwright Roche & Suzzy Roche Mud & Apples Bunny
- Leyla McCalla A Day for the Hunter, A Day for the Prey Independent
Top Ten June 20th – June 26th:
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs (Anti-)
- Charlie Faye & The Fayettes Charlie Faye & The Fayettes (Self)
- Gregory Porter Take Me To The Alley (Blue Note)
- Corinne Bailey Rae The Heart Speaks In Whispers (Caroline)
- Special Consensus Long I Ride (Compass)
- The Monkees Good Times! (Rhino)
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent (Sugar Hill)
- Paul Simon Stranger To Stranger (Concord)
- Allen Toussaint American Tunes (Nonesuch)
- Debo Band Ere Gobez (FPE)
Top Ten June 13th – June 19th:
- Sara Watkins Young In All The Wrong Ways (New West)
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent (Sugar Hill)
- Beth Orton Kidsticks (Anti-)
- The Honeycutters On the Ropes (Organic)
- The Soul Of John Black Early In The Moanin’ (Cadabra)
- case/lang/veirs case/lang/veirs (Anti-)
- Leyla McCalla A Day for the Hunter, A Day for the Prey (Jazz Village)
- Darrell Scott Couchville Sessions (Thirty Tigers)
- Allen Toussaint American Tunes (Nonesuch)
- Adia Victoria Beyond The Bloodhounds (Atlantic)
Top Ten June 6th – June 12th:
- Leyla McCalla A Day for the Hunter, A Day for the Prey (Jazz Village)
- Carrie Rodriguez Lola (Thirty Tigers)
- Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals Call It What It Is (Stax)
- Kaia Kater Nine Pin (Kingswood)
- The Soul Of John Black Early In The Moanin’ (Cadabra)
- Sam Beam And Jesca Hoop Love Letter For Fire (Sub Pop)
- Joe Driscoll & Sekou Kouyate Monistic Theory (Cumbancha)
- Sarah Jarosz Undercurrent (Sugar Hill)
- Paul Simon Stranger To Stranger (Concord)
- Charles Bradley Changes (Dunham)
Top Ten May 30th – June 5th:
- Kaia Kater Nine Pin (Kingswood)
- Debo Band Ere Gobez (FPE)
- Gregory Porter Take Me To The Alley (Blue Note)
- Beth Orton Kidsticks (Anti-)
- The Bills Trail of Tales (Factor)
- Jane Ira Bloom Early Americans (Outline)
- The Lumineers Cleopatra (Dualtone)
- Corinne Bailey Rae The Heart Speaks In Whispers (Caroline)
- Snarky Puppy Culcha Vulcha (GroundUP)
- Joe Driscoll & Sekou Kouyate Monistic Theory (Cumbancha)
Top Ten April 25th – May 1st:
- Sam Beam And Jesca Hoop Love Letter For Fire (Sub Pop)
- Andrew Bird Are You Serious (Loma Vista)
- CéU Tropix (Six Degrees)
- Lake Street Dive Side Pony (Nonesuch)
- Anoushka Shankar Land Of Gold (Universal)
- Sturgill Simpson A Sailor’s Guide to Earth (Atlantic)
- The Bills Trail of Tales (Factor)
- The Cactus Blossoms You’re Dreaming (Red House)
- Laura Gibson Empire Builder (Barsuk)
- The Spinney Brothers Living The Dream (Mountain Fever)
Top Ten April 18th – April 24th:
- Lake Street Dive Side Pony (Nonesuch)
- Sturgill Simpson A Sailor’s Guide to Earth (Atlantic)
- Sam Beam And Jesca Hoop Love Letter For Fire (Sub Pop)
- Andrew Bird Are You Serious (Loma Vista)
- The Lonesome River Band Bridging The Tradition (Mountain Home)
- Thao & The Get Down Stay Down A Man Alive (Ribbon)
- Town Mountain Southern Crescent (LoHi)
- Charlie Faye & The Fayettes Charlie Faye & The Fayettes (Self)
- Robbie Fulks Upland Stories (Bloodshot)
- Teddy Thompson And Kelly Jones Little Windows (Cooking Vinyl)
Top Ten April 11th – April 17th:
- Charles Bradley Changes (Dunham)
- Adrian Younge Adrian Younge Presents Something About April II (Linear Labs)
- Andrew Bird Are You Serious (Loma Vista)
- Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals Call It What It Is (Stax)
- Lake Street Dive Side Pony (Nonesuch)
- Laura Gibson Empire Builder (Barsuk)
- Loretta Lynn Full Circle (Legacy)
- Basia Bulat Good Advice (Secret City)
- Sam Beam And Jesca Hoop Love Letter For Fire (Sub Pop)
- Rokia Traoré Né So (Nonesuch)
Top Ten April 4th – April 10th:
- CéU Tropix (Six Degrees)
- Vox Vidorra Promise Land (Self)
- Adan & Xavi Y Los Imanes (Self)
- Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals Call It What It Is (Stax)
- Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros PersonA (Community)
- Laura Gibson Empire Builder (Barsuk)
- Margo Price Midwest Farmer’s Daughter (Third Man)
- Rokia Traoré Né So (Nonesuch)
- Tacocat Lost Time (Hardly Art)
- The Hackensaw Boys Charismo (Free Dirt)
Top Ten March 21st – March 28th:
- Andrew Bird Are You Serious (Loma Vista)
- CéU Tropix (Six Degrees)
- Lake Street Dive Side Pony (Nonesuch)
- Teddy Thompson And Kelly Jones Little Windows (CV 30)
- Charles Bradley Changes (Dunham)
- Carrie Rodriguez Lola (Thirty Tigers)
- Carolina Blue Goin’ Home Today (Self)
- The Cave Singers Banshee (Self)
- M. Ward More Rain (Merge)
- Alfredo Rodriguez Tocororo (Mack Avenue)
Top Ten March 14th – March 20th:
- Carrie Rodriguez Lola (Thirty Tigers)
- Mavis Staples Livin’ On A High Note (Anti-)
- Teddy Thompson and Kelly Jones Little Windows (CV 30)
- CéU Tropix (Six Degrees)
- Lake Street Dive Side Pony (Nonesuch)
- Laurie Lewis and The Right Hands The Hazel and Alice Sessions (Spruce & Maple)
- Lou Doillon Lay Low (Barclay)
- Loretta Lynn Full Circle (Legacy)
- Esperanza Spalding Emily’s D+Evolution (Concord)
- Charles Bradley Changes (Dunham)
Top Ten February 29th – March 6th:
- Bill Frisell When You Wish Upon a Star (Okeh)
- Ronnie Spector English Heart (429)
- Mavis Staples Livin’ On A High Note (Anti-)
- Rokia Traoré Né So (Nonesuch)
- Basia Bulat Good Advice (Secret City)
- Charles Bradley Changes (Dunham)
- Rhiannon Giddens Factory Girl (Nonesuch)
- Loretta Lynn Full Circle (Legacy)
- Luther Dickinson Blues & Ballads (New West)
- Baaba Maal The Traveller (Palm Pictures)
Top Ten February 22nd – February 28th:
- Mavis Staples Livin’ On A High Note (Anti-)
- Charles Bradley Changes (Dunham)
- Luther Dickinson Blues & Ballads (New West)
- Bill Frisell When You Wish Upon a Star (Okeh)
- Esperanza Spalding Emily’s D+Evolution (Concord)
- Rokia Traoré Né So (Nonesuch)
- The Brothers Comatose City Painted Gold (Swamp Jam)
- Deep Sea Diver Secrets (High Beam)
- Lou Doillon Lay Low (Barclay)
- Dori Freeman Dori Freeman (Free Dirt)
Top Ten February 15th – February 21st:
- Solas All These Years (THL)
- Laurie Lewis and The Right Hands The Hazel and Alice Sessions (Spruce & Maple)
- Baaba Maal The Traveller (Palm Pictures)
- Grace Love and The True Loves Grace Love & The True Loves (Self)
- Battlefield Band Beg & Borrow (Temple)
- Sainkho Namtchylak Like a Bird or Spirit, Not a Face (Ponderosa)
- Carrie Rodriguez Lola (Thirty Tigers)
- Dori Freeman Dori Freeman (Free Dirt)
- Basia Bulat Good Advice (Secret City)
- Bill Frisell When You Wish Upon a Star (Okeh)
Top Ten February 8th – February 14th:
- Dori Freeman Dori Freeman (Free Dirt)
- Laurie Lewis and The Right Hands The Hazel and Alice Sessions (Spruce & Maple)
- Aoife O’Donovan In The Magic Hour (Yep Roc)
- Eli West The Both (Self)
- Susie Burke & David Surette Waiting for the Sun (Madrina)
- Rhiannon Giddens Factory Girl (Nonesuch)
- Infamous Stringdusters Ladies & Gentlemen (Compass)
- Grace Love and The True Loves Grace Love & The True Loves (Self)
- Miranda Lee Richards Echoes of the Dreamtime (Invisible Hands)
- Lucinda Williams The Ghosts Of Highway 20 (Thirty Tigers)
Top Ten February 7th – March 13th:
- Rokia Traoré Né So (Nonesuch)
- Lake Street Dive Side Pony (Nonesuch)
- The Cave Singers Banshee (Self)
- Evie Ladin Band Jump The Fire (Self)
- Basia Bulat Good Advice (Secret City)
- The Brainstormers Never Gonna Rain (Self)
- Carolina Blue Goin’ Home Today (Self)
- Kate Campbell The K.O.A. Tapes (Vol.1) (Self)
- Mavis Staples Livin’ On A High Note (Anti-)
- Miranda Lee Richards Echoes of the Dreamtime (Invisible Hands)
Top Ten February 1st – February 7th:
- Grace Love and The True Loves Grace Love & The True Loves (Self)
- Rhiannon Giddens Factory Girl (Nonesuch)
- Eli West The Both (Self)
- Courtney Barnett Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit (House Anxiety)
- Aoife O’Donovan In The Magic Hour (Yep Roc)
- The Cactus Blossoms You’re Dreaming (Red House)
- Baaba Maal The Traveller (Palm Pictures)
- Brennen Leigh Sings Lefty Frizzell (South Central)
- Dori Freeman Dori Freeman (Free Dirt)
- Lucinda Williams The Ghosts Of Highway 20 (Thirty Tigers)
Top Ten January 25th – January 31st:
- Grace Love and The True Loves Grace Love & The True Loves (Self)
- The Arcs Yours, Dreamily (Nonesuch)
- The James Hunter Six Hold On! (Daptone)
- Charm City Junction Charm City Junction (Patuxent)
- Bill Frisell When You Wish Upon a Star (Okeh)
- Rhiannon Giddens Factory Girl (Nonesuch)
- Baaba Maal The Traveller (Palm Pictures)
- Luther Dickinson Blues & Ballads (New West)
- Kode9 Nothing (Hyperdub)
- Aoife O’Donovan In The Magic Hour (Yep Roc)
Top Ten January 18th – January 24th
- Aoife O’Donovan In The Magic Hour (Yep Roc)
- Tedeschi Trucks Band Let Me Get By (Fantasy)
- Dori Freeman Dori Freeman (Unknown Label)
- Baaba Maal The Traveller (Palm Pictures)
- Radio Citizen The Night & The City (Sonar Kolletiv)
- The Cactus Blossoms You’re Dreaming (Red House)
- Cicada Rhythm Cicada Rhythm (Normaltown)
- The Grascals And Then There’s This… (Mountain Home)
- Charles Lloyd & The Marvels I Long To See You (Blue Note)
- Grace Love And The True Loves Grace Love & The True Loves (Self)
Top Ten January 11th – January 17th
- Charles Lloyd & The Marvels I Long To See You (Blue Note)
- Baaba Maal The Traveller (Palm Pictures)
- Luther Dickinson Blues & Ballads (A Folksinger’s Songbook) (New West)
- Aoife O’Donovan In The Magic Hour (Yep Roc)
- Julien Baker Sprained Ankle (6131)
- Karen Gottlieb Music for Harp (Innova)
- Radio Citizen The Night & The City (Sonar Kolletiv)
- Joan Soriano Me decidí (Iaso)
- Tinariwen Live In Paris 2014 (Anti)
- The Wainwright Sisters Songs in the Dark (Pias)
Top Ten January 4th – January 10th:
- Grace Love and The True Loves Grace Love & The True Loves (Unknown Label)
- Danny Paisley and The Southern Grass Weary River (Patuxent)
- Tinariwen Live In Paris 2014 (Anti)
- Susie Burke & David Surette Waiting for the Sun (Madrina)
- Adam Hill Old Paint (Mapl)
- Radio Citizen The Night & The City (Sonar Kolletiv)
- The Grascals And Then There’s This… (Mountain Home)
- Makem and Spain Four Pounds A Day (New Folk)
- The2070s The2070s (Self)
- The Winterlings You Are Acres (Self)
Top Ten December 28th – January 3rd:
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- Vieux Farka Touré & Julia Easterlin Touristes (Six Degrees)
- Cicada Rhythm Cicada Rhythm (Normaltown)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- Radio Citizen The Night & The City (Sonar Kolletiv)
- The Chamanas Once Once (Nacional)
- Empresarios The Vibes (Independent)
- Free The Honey Fine Bloom (Self)
- Charlie Hunter Trio Let The Bells Ring On (Self)
Top Ten December 21st – December 27th:
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings It’s A Holiday Soul Party (Daptone)
- The Grascals And Then There’s This… (Mountain Home)
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Mark Kuykendall Down Memory Lane (Rebel)
- Paperboys At Peace With One’s Ghosts (Self)
- Shovels & Rope Busted Jukebox: Volume 1 (Shrimp)
- Tinariwen Live In Paris 2014 (Anti)
- Sarah Shook & The Disarmers Sidelong (Self)
- Max Stalling Banquet (Blind Nello)
- Emily King The Switch (Making Music)
Top Ten December 14th – December 20th:
- Charlie Hunter Trio Let The Bells Ring On (Self)
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings It’s A Holiday Soul Party (Daptone)
- Son Little Son Little (Anti)
- Tim O’Brien Pompadour (Howdy Skies)
- David Friesen & Glen Moore Bactrian (Origin)
- The Lil Smokies The Lil Smokies (Self)
- Paperboys At Peace With One’s Ghosts (Self)
- Carlos Timón Solar Rapé (Pueblo)
- Tinariwen Live In Paris 2014 (Anti)
Top Ten December 7th – December 13th:
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings It’s A Holiday Soul Party (Daptone)
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Emily King The Switch (Making Music)
- Son Little Son Little (Anti)
- Shovels & Rope Busted Jukebox: Volume 1 (Shrimp)
- The Chapin Sisters Today’s Not Yesterday (Lake Bottom)
- St. Germain St. Germain (Warner)
- Nathaniel Talbot Swamp Rose And Honeysuckle Vine (Fluff & Gravy)
- Nikki Hill Heavy Hearts Hard Fists (Deep Fryed)
- Carlos Timón Solar Rapé (Pueblo)
Top Ten November 30th – December 6th:
- Son Little Son Little (Anti)
- Nikki Hill Heavy Hearts Hard Fists (Deep Fryed)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings It’s A Holiday Soul Party (Daptone)
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- St. Germain St. Germain (Warner)
- Tim O’Brien Pompadour (Howdy Skies)
- Shovels & Rope Busted Jukebox: Volume 1 (Shrimp)
- The Chapin Sisters Today’s Not Yesterday (Lake Bottom)
- Emily King The Switch (Making Music)
- Carlos Timón Solar Rapé (Pueblo)
Top Ten November 23rd – November 29th:
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Son Little Son Little (Anti)
- St. Germain St. Germain (Warner)
- Tim O’Brien Pompadour (Howdy Skies)
- Danny Barnes Got Myself Together (Ten Years Later) (Thirty 8)
- Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Grasstowne 4 (Mountain Fever)
- Boogat Neo-Reconquista (Maisonette)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- Mozo The Neighborhood Has Changed (Self)
- Mike Krol Turkey (Merge)
Top Ten November 16th – November 22nd:
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Son Little Son Little (Anti)
- Carlos Timón Solar Rapé (Pueblo)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- The Cox Family Gone Like The Cotton (Rounder)
- Chris Isaak First Comes The Night (Wicked Game)
- Royal Headache High (What’s Your Rupture?)
- The Souljazz Orchestra Resistance (Strut)
- Courtney Barnett Boxing Day Blues (Third Man)
- Sam Gleaves Ain’t We Brothers (Community)
Top Ten November 9th – November 15th:
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Martin Harley and Daniel Kimbro Live At Southern Ground (Redeye)
- Tim O’Brien Pompadour (Howdy Skies)
- Joan Soriano Me decidí (Iaso)
- The Souljazz Orchestra Resistance (Strut)
- The Cox Family Gone Like The Cotton (Rounder)
- Empresarios The Vibes (Independent)
- Grupo Fantasma Problemas (Blue Corn)
- The New Mastersounds Made for Pleasure (Royal Potato Family)
- Pure Bathing Culture Pray For Rain (Partisan)
Top Ten November 2nd – November 8th:
- Annie Staninec Annie Staninec (Independent)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- The Cox Family Gone Like The Cotton (Rounder)
- Kathy Kallick Band Foxhounds (Live Oak)
- Donna Ulisse Hard Cry Moon (Hadley)
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- The Debutones Please Come Home (self)
- Empresarios The Vibes (Independent)
- Bridget Kearney & Benjamin Lazar Davis Bawa (Signature Sounds)
- Vieux Farka Touré & Julia Easterlin Touristes (Six Degrees)
Music of the Moment: November
Discover five essential new releases, courtesy Boogat, The Colt Kraft Band, The Supersuckers, Patty Griffin, and The Cox Family.
Continue reading →Top Ten October 26th – November 1st:
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- Patty Griffin Servant Of Love (Thirty Tigers)
- Glen Hansard Didn’t He Ramble (Anti)
- Los Lobos Gates Of Gold (429)
- The New Mastersounds Made for Pleasure (Royal Potato Family)
- Josh Ritter Sermon on the Rocks (Pytheas)
- Joan Soriano Me decidí (Iaso)
- Sugarplum Fairies Sunday, Suddenly (Starfish)
- Dave Rawlings Machine Nashville Obsolete (Acony)
Top Ten October 19th – October 25th:
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- The Chamanas Once Once (Nacional)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
- Josh Ritter Sermon on the Rocks (Pytheas)
- Nattali Rize & Notis New Era Frequency (One Rebel Creative)
- Joan Soriano Me decidí (Iaso)
- The Souljazz Orchestra Resistance (Strut)
- Vieux Farka Touré & Julia Easterlin Touristes (Six Degrees)
- Lindi Ortega Faded Gloryville (Last Gang)
Top Ten October 12 – October 18:
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
- Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- Tami Neilson Dynamite! (Outside)
- Vieux Farka Touré & Julia Easterlin Touristes (Six Degrees)
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- Empresarios The Vibes (Independent)
- Patty Griffin Servant Of Love (Thirty Tigers)
- Shawn Colvin Uncovered (Fantasy)
- Wes Weddell Nobody’s Flag (Independent)
Top Ten October 5 – October 11:
- Vieux Farka Touré & Julia Easterlin Touristes (Six Degrees)
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
- Jenna Moynihan Woven (Independent)
- Greg Blake Songs Of Heart & Home (Independent)
- Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
- Open The Door For Three The Penny Wager (Independent)
- Gary Clark Jr. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim (Warner Brothers)
- Lindi Ortega Faded Gloryville (Last Gang)
- Dave Rawlings Machine Nashville Obsolete (Acony)
Top Ten September 28 – October 4:
- The Souljazz Orchestra Resistance (Strut)
- Los Lobos Gates Of Gold (429-)
- Nneka My Fairy Tales (Bushqueen)
- Steep Canyon Rangers Radio (Rounder)
- Shawn Colvin Uncovered (Fantasy)
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- Rita Hosking Frankie and the No-Go Road (Independent)
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
- Lindi Ortega Faded Gloryville (Last Gang)
- Dale Watson Call Me Insane (Red House)
Music of the Moment October 2015
5 new releases every music fan should check out:
1. Dave Rawlings Machine Nashville Obsolete (Acony) – Rawlings is half of the duo that performs as Gillian Welch and this is the 2nd release under his name. With only 7 tracks listed, you may think you’re not getting a full album, but it’s over 45 minutes of music full of their languid tempos and stretched out, slightly surreal, folk songs. Their music is made for careful listening so put your headphones on and lose yourself in the music.
2. Rita Hosking Frankie & The No-Go Road (Independent) – This is a concept album inspired by mythologist Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey. Rita is an incredibly talented songwriter. She also did all the wonderful illustrations on the CD case and liner notes. Musically, the album moves smoothly between acoustic country, folk and Americana, always rooted by Rita’s superb voice.
3. Donnie Fritts Oh My Goodness (Single Lock) – Funky Donnie Fritts is a musician’s musician; an unknown legend who played on tons of classic Muscle Shoals records and recorded with Kristofferson, Prine, Nelson, and Jennings to name a scant few. He’s a terrific songwriter and
Continue reading →Top Ten September 21 – September 27:
- The New Mastersounds Made for Pleasure (Royal Potato Family)
- Andra Day Cheers To The Fall (Warner Bros.)
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
- Monokle Rings (Ki)
- The Bellfuries Workingman’s Bellfuries (Hi-Style)
- Shawn Colvin Uncovered (Fantasy)
- Amy Helm Didn’t It Rain (eOne)
- Lindi Ortega Faded Gloryville (Last Gang)
- The Souljazz Orchestra Resistance (Strut)
- Vieux Farka Touré & Julia Easterlin Touristes (Six Degrees)
Top Ten September 14th – September 20th:
- Lindi Ortega Faded Gloryville (Last Gang)
- Shawn Colvin Uncovered (Fantasy)
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
- Los Lobos Gates Of Gold (429)
- Nattali Rize & Notis New Era Frequency (One Rebel Creative)
- Lizz Wright Freedom & Surrender (Concord)
- The Bellfuries Workingman’s Bellfuries (Hi-Style)
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Thomas Mapfumo Lion Songs (Independent)
- Jesse Milnes & Emily Miller Deep End Sessions Vol. II (Deep End Sessions)
Top Ten September 7th – September 13th:
- Greg Blake Songs Of Heart & Home (Independent)
- Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
- Kasey Chambers Bittersweet (Sugar Hill)
- Shemekia Copeland Outskirts Of Love (Alligator)
- Flatt Lonesome Runaway Train (Mountain Home)
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
- John Lilly Thinking About the Weather (Independent)
- Nneka My Fairy Tales (Bushqueen)
- Lindi Ortega Faded Gloryville (Last Gang)
- Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin Lost Time (Yep Roc)
Top Ten August 31st – September 6th:
- Iris DeMent The Trackless Woods (Independent)
- Amy Helm Didn’t It Rain (eOne)
- Van Morrison The Essential Van Morrison (Legacy)
- Nattali Rize & Notis New Era Frequency (One Rebel Creative)
- Yo La Tengo Stuff Like That There (Matador)
- Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
- Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams (Red House)
- Shemekia Copeland Outskirts Of Love (Alligator)
- Nneka My Fairy Tales (Bushqueen)
- Joan Shelley Over and Even (No Quarter)
Top Ten August 24th – August 30th:
- Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- The Deslondes The Deslondes (New West)
- Melody Gardot Currency Of Man (Verve)
- Nneka My Fairy Tales (Bushqueen)
- Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin Lost Time (Yep Roc)
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Watkins Family Hour Watkins Family Hour (Independent)
- Galactic Into The Deep (Provogue)
- Lianne La Havas Blood (Nonesuch)
Music of the Moment for September 2015
5 new releases every music fan should check out:
1. The Bellfuries Workingman’s Bellfuries (Hi-Style) – This Austin quartet has been around for a while and this CD may finally bring them some well-deserved national attention. If you are a fan of early rock and roll, Sun Records, rockabilly or swing you will want to check this band out. Or if just like to get up and spontaneously dance, this album is definitely up your alley.
2. Lindi Ortega Faded Gloryville (Last Gang) – 4th full album from Lindi finds her almost contemplative. It reminds me a bit of Waylon’s Dreaming My Dreams period when some of the gasoline had burned off and the flames were burner lower, but perhaps hotter. Musically, however, I more inclined to compare this to the great country soul of the 70s from Bobby Charles, Jeannie C. Riley, and Charlie Rich with maybe a little Robert Gordon thrown in there for good measure. In short this album is perfect. [Review by Iaan Hughes]
3. The Nightowls Fame Sessions (Nine Mile) – The title of the album hints at where this 10-piece band recorded this new CD. In Detroit’s FAME Studios. The music is in the pocket old school 70s R&B/Soul.
4. Jason James Jason James (New West) – Debut record for this Texan. Jason is a former rocker who fell in love with classic country music. He isn’t reinventing the wheel but he is a great example of why the wheel doesn’t always need to be reinvented.
5. Nattali Rize & Notis New Era Frequency (One Rebel Creative) – Nattali is known for being the frontwoman of the Australian roots band Blue King Brown. Her first solo recording is roots reggae performed by the duo Notis. Her lyrics showcase her ongoing commitment to conscious raising about people and the world around them.
Last Month’s Top 3 Releases:
1. Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
Continue reading →
2. Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
3. Melody Gardot Currency of Man (Verve)Top Ten July 27th – August 2nd:
- Kasey Chambers Bittersweet (Sugar Hill)
- Melody Gardot Currency Of Man (Verve)
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell The Traveling Kind (Nonesuch)
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
- Amy Helm Didn’t It Rain (eOne)
- Cécile McLorin Salvant For One to Love (Mack Avenue)
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic)
- The Milk Carton Kids Monterey (Anti)
- Galactic Into The Deep (Provogue)
Music of the Moment for August 2015
5 new releases every music fan should check out:
1. Joan Shelley Over and Even (No Quarter) – I like Catherine Irwin’s description of Joan’s voice “she lands on a note like a laser beam on a diamond. Colors fly around the room, and her voice bends between them.” This Kentucky native creates timeless folk music that is so beautiful, it’ll stop you in your tracks, just so you can completely enjoy the essence of its beauty.
2. Watkins Family Hour Watkins Family Hour (independent) – 13 years ago Sean & Sara started a monthly residency at an LA music club. Various artists would drop in and play with them and over the years such luminaries as Greg Leisz, Don Heffington, Benmont Tench and Sabastian Steinberg became an integral part of the “family”. This album captures their pure joy of creating music together. The songs are mostly in the Country/Americana vein but aren’t completely polished up to perfection, so you can still hear the dust on the record.
3. Shelby Lynne I Can’t Imagine (Rounder) – Her 13th album finds Shelby continuing to merge her musical influences – Southern Soul, Crescent City R&B and California Country – all brought together by her pop sensibility. Well written songs, exquisitely sung and produced, there is much to appreciate on this release.
Continue reading →Top Ten July 20th – 26th:
- Melody Gardot Currency Of Man (Verve)
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell The Traveling Kind (Nonesuch)
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Nneka My Fairy Tales (Bushqueen)
- Madisen Ward and The Mama Bear Skeleton Crew (Glassnote)
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic)
- Leon Bridges Coming Home (Columbia)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Kasey Chambers Bittersweet (Sugar Hill)
- The Very Best Makes a King (Moshi Moshi)
“Top Ten July 13 – 19th”
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Dale Ann Bradley Pocket Full of Keys (Pinecastle)
- The Deslondes The Deslondes (New West)
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Chris Jones & The Night Drivers Run Away Tonight (Mountain Home)
- Willie Nelson & Merle Haggard Django and Jimmie (Sony)
- Nneka My Fairy Tales (Bushqueen)
- Haley Richardson with Dylan Richardson Heart On a String (Independent)
- Lindsay Straw My Mind from Love Being Free (Independent)
“Top Ten June 29th – July 5th”
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic )
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- The Deslondes The Deslondes (New West)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Melody Gardot Currency Of Man (Verve)
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Lord Huron Strange Trails (I Am Sound)
- Allen Stone Radius (Capitol)
- Robert Randolph & The Word Soul Food (Vanguard)
Music of the Moment for July 2015:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Dustbowl Revival With A Lampshade On (Signature Sounds) – This California band could be described as an American roots hootenanny with an added soulful groove.! The music is a little Dixieland Jazz, Soul and Old-Time Folk. So much fun to listen to that you may even put on a lampshade too.
2. Chico Trujillo Reina de Todas las Fiestas / The Queen of All Parties (Barbés) – Colombian based band that recorded this album in Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, Chile and the U.S. They wanted to create a pan-Latin American sound that is still based in the cumbia dance genre, but also incorporates other aspects of the continent’s varied musical culture. From the sounds of it, they were successful in their endeavor.
3. The Deslonde’s The Deslonde’s (New West) – New Orleans-based band that captures the classic sound from the old southern Country-Blues recordings. Imagine the rootsy sound of the classic 60’s group, The Band, transplanted to a honky tonk. If you can stay still while listening to ‘Less Honkin’ More Tonkin’ then your ears may be broke.
Continue reading →Top Ten June 22nd – 28th:
- Terence Blanchard Breathless (Blue Note)
- The Dustbowl Revival With A Lampshade On (Signature Sounds)
- The Milk Carton Kids Monterey (Anti)
- Allen Stone Radius (Capitol)
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- The Deslondes The Deslondes (New West)
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Nneka My Fairy Tales (Bushqueen)
- Melody Gardot Currency Of Man (Verve)
Top Ten June 15th – 21st:
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Melody Gardot Currency Of Man (Verve)
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic)
- Jason Isbell Something More Than Free (Southeastern)
- Amy Black The Muscle Shoals Sessions (independent)
- Terence Blanchard Breathless (Blue Note)
- Hudson Mohawke Lantern (Warp)
- Dar Williams Emerald (independent)
Top 10 June 8th – 14th:
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell The Traveling Kind (Nonesuch)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Melody Gardot Currency Of Man (Verve)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Amy Black The Muscle Shoals Sessions (independent)
- The Deslondes The Deslondes (New West)
- Lord Huron Strange Trails (I Am Sound)
- Mandolin Orange Such Jubilee (Yep Roc)
- Tellico Relics and Roses (independent)
Top Ten June 1st – 7th:
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Beth Bombara Beth Bombara (independent)
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell The Traveling Kind (Nonesuch)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Lord Huron Strange Trails (I Am Sound)
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- Lapalux Lustmore (Brainfeeder)
- Willie Nelson & Merle Haggard Django and Jimmie (Sony)
Top Ten May 25th – 31st:
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell The Traveling Kind (Nonesuch)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic)
- Amy Black The Muscle Shoals Sessions (independent)
- Lapalux Lustmore (Brainfeeder)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- The Very Best Makes a King (Moshi Moshi)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
- Martha Scanlan The Shape Of Things Gone Missing, The Shape of Things to Come (independent)
Music of the Moment for June 2015:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell The Traveling Kind (Nonesuch) – Musical kin and friends for over 40 years, it’s not surprising these Americana icons sound so good together. Their 2nd collaboration feels as comfortable as your favorite piece of clothing.
2. Milk Carton Kids Monterey (Anti) – The Grammy-nominated indie folk duo bring their wistful harmonies and flat-picking skills to 11 new songs written on tour. Recorded live in six days, in the empty halls prior to their evening performance, the album captures all the inspiration and emotion of the moment. Often compared to the Everly Brothers or Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, Monterey tells the too-true and often melancholy stories they’ve uncovered on the road. Just the album for easing your time spent on the road too.
3. Hiatus Kaiyote Choose Your Weapon (Flying Buddha/Sony) – The sound of Hiatus Kaiyote is instantly recognizable, largely due to the lissome vocals of Nai Palm. Her enlightened style taps contemporary soul, jazz, and catawampus worldbeats,
Continue reading →Top Ten May 18th – 24th:
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Bhi Bhiman Rhythm & Reason (independent)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- The Very Best Makes a King (Moshi Moshi)
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell The Traveling Kind (Nonesuch)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Mandolin Orange Such Jubilee (Yep Roc)
Top Ten May 11th – 17th:
- Hiatus Kaiyote Choose Your Weapon (Flying Buddha/Sony)
- The Very Best Makes a King (Moshi Moshi)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- Grant Dermody Sun Might Shine on Me (independent)
- Lila Downs Balas y Chocolate (Sony)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
- Axel Krygier Hombre de Piedra (Crammed Discs)
Top Ten May 4th – 10th:
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Saun & Starr Look Closer (Daptone)
- Mark Knopfler Tracker (Verve)
- Alabama Shakes Sound & Color (Rough Trade)
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- Lila Downs Balas y Chocolate (Sony)
Top Ten April 27th – May 3rd:
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Eilen Jewell Sundown Over Ghost Town (Signature Sounds)
- Mark Knopfler Tracker (Verve)
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
- Lila Downs Balas y Chocolate (Sony)
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
Top Ten April 20th – 26th:
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Saun & Starr Look Closer (Daptone)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Bhi Bhiman Rhythm & Reason (independent)
- Mark Knopfler Tracker (Verve)
- The Very Best Makes a King (Moshi Moshi)
- Laura Marling Short Movie (Ribbon)
- The Honeycutters Me Oh My (Organic)
- The Decemberists What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World (Capitol)
Top Ten April 13th – 19th:
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Lila Downs Balas y Chocolate (Sony)
- Pharis & Jason Romero A Wanderer I’ll Stay (Lula)
- Mark Knopfler Tracker (Verve)
- D’Angelo & The Vanguard Black Messiah (RCA)
- Pokey LaFarge Something In The Water (Rounder)
- Calexico Edge Of The Sun (Anti)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- The Mighty Mocambos Showdown (Légère)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
Top Ten April 6th – 12th:
- Lila Downs Balas y Chocolate (Sony)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Danielle Nicole Danielle Nicole EP (Concord)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
- Sam Lewis Waiting On You (Brash)
- Jacky Terrasson Take This (Impulse)
- Mark Knopfler Tracker (Verve)
- Pokey LaFarge Something In The Water (Rounder)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- Sufjan Stevens Carrie & Lowell (Asthmatic Kitty)
Top Ten March 30th – April 5th:
- Mark Knopfler Tracker (Verve)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- D’Angelo & The Vanguard Black Messiah (RCA)
- Andrew Combs All These Dreams (Coin)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Ibeyi Ibeyi (XL)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
- Pharis & Jason Romero A Wanderer I’ll Stay (Lula)
- Niyaz The Fourth Light (Six Degrees)
“Enjoy this? Tell us more about what you like on KBCS by taking our 2015 listener survey.”
Continue reading →Music of the Moment for April 2015:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Andrew Combs All These Dreams (Coin) – Do people make records like this anymore?! On one hand a throwback to classic 70s pop era singer-songwriters, yet still sounds relevant and fresh. Andrew has a terrific voice and the record has a nice understated beauty to it. [Review by Iaan Hughes]
2. José González Vestiges & Claws (Imperial) – José’s first album in 7 years finds him recording these slow-burning compositions at his home in Sweden. Perfect for those mornings when you need to ease into your hectic day.
3. Pharis & Jason Romero A Wanderer I’ll Stay (Lula) – This British Columbia couple has been earning wider recognition in the U.S. Not an easy feat for artists who perform old-time folk music. This recording clearly displays why. Good songwriting, beautiful harmonies, great guitar and claw-hammer banjo make this a wonderful addition to the folk genre.
4. Sufjan Stevens Carrie & Lowell (Asmathic Kitty) – Beautiful, orchestral neo-folk a la Elliot Smith. His first album in 5 years, following the death of his mother, is a moving, understated meditation on loss.
5. The Mighty Mocambos Showdown (Légère) – This is the third release for this European funk outfit who use afrobeat horns and a solid groove to get you dancing! They keep the groove traditional, yet contemporary. This band is tight!
Last Month’s Top 3 Releases:
1. Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
2. Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti)
3. Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)“Enjoy this story? Tell us more about what you like on KBCS by taking our 2015 listener survey.”
Continue reading →Top Ten March 23rd – 29th:
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Seth Avett & Jessica Lea Mayfield Sing Elliott Smith (Ramseur)
- Mark Knopfler Tracker (Verve)
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
- D’Angelo & The Vanguard Black Messiah (RCA)
- The Decemberists What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World (Capitol)
- Joe Pug Windfall (Lightning Rod)
“Enjoy this? Tell us more about what you like on KBCS by taking our 2015 listener survey.”
Continue reading →Top Ten March 16th – 22nd:
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (AntiEpitaph)
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Sarah Gayle Meech Tennessee Love Song (independent)
- The Decemberists What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World (Capitol)
- Andrew Combs All These Dreams (Coin)
- various artists Signature Sounds 20th Anniversary Celebration: Rarities From The Second Decade (Signature Sounds)
- Kristin Andreassen Gondolier (Yellowcar)
- Martin Sexton Mixtape of The Open Road (Kitchen Table)
Top Ten March 9th – 15th:
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- various artists Signature Sounds 20th Anniversary Celebration: Rarities From The Second Decade (Signature Sounds)
- Andrew Combs All These Dreams (Coin)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Danielle Nicole Danielle Nicole EP (Concord)
- The Mighty Mocambos Showdown (Légére)
- Pharis & Jason Romero A Wanderer I’ll Stay (Lula)
- Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The Third (Sunday Best)
“Enjoy this? Tell us more about what you like on KBCS by taking our 2015 listener survey.”
Continue reading →Top Ten March 2nd – 8th:
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- D’Angelo & The Vanguard Black Messiah (RCA)
- Danielle Nicole Danielle Nicole EP (Concord)
- Gill Landry Gill Landry (ATO)
- Brandi Carlile The Firewatcher’s Daughter (ATO)
- The Mavericks Mono (The Valory)
- various artists Signature Sounds 20th Anniversary Celebration: Rarities From The Second Decade (Signature Sounds)
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Anne McCue Blue Sky Thinkin’ (Flying Machine)
“Enjoy this? Tell us more about what you like on KBCS by taking our 2015 listener survey.”
Continue reading →Top Ten February 23rd – March 1st:
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- D’Angelo & The Vanguard Black Messiah (RCA)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- THEESatisfaction EarthEE (Sub Pop)
- The Decemberists What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World (Capitol)
- Asleep At The Wheel Still the King: Celebrating the Music of Bob Wills (Bismeaux)
- Elana James Black Beauty (Snarf)
- Submotion Orchestra Alium (Counter)
Music of the Moment for March 2015:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch) – A classically trained vocalist, Rhiannon displays this fact in abundance on her debut solo record. The songs are from a wide range of sources, with Rhiannon penning the last track. Producer T Bone Burnett carefully crafted the music to perfectly compliment her voice. This record will definitely be a contender for best of 2015.
2. James McMurtry Complicated Game (independent) – Crafting words is a family legacy. James just happens to crafts his into poignant songs. He took six years to pen and record the songs on Complicated Game. As the songs attest, it was certainly time well spent.
3. Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project (Borealis) – Jayme is a Canadian banjo player who enjoys musical exploration not unlike Béla Fleck, one of his mentors. This new record primarily draws its selection from the recordings Alan Lomax made in the post-war years. He is joined by Tim O’Brien, Bruce Molsky, Moira Smiley, Brittany Haas, and many more. This is a wonderful example of how traditional music can be made anew.
4. 11 Acorn Lane Time for Tea (Wooden Hat) – Thomas Feurer & Neal Pawley meld jazz, funk, Latin, big band lounge music, etc. with electronic beats to create quirky, fun, swingin’ music. Music that is almost impossible to stay still as you listen to it. What else do you need as the days get longer?
5. various artists Signature Sounds 20th Anniversary Collection: Rarities From The Second Decade (Signature Sounds) – KBCS is fortunate enough to have almost every record this independent Massachusetts record label has released in the past 20 years. They released 80 albums in the past 10 years and this collection showcases songs that were previously unreleased, or from special projects or off of EPs. There is a little something here for every fan of Americana music.
Last Month’s Top 3 Releases:
1. Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
2. Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti)
3. The Decemberists What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World (Capitol)
Continue reading →Top Ten February 16th – 22nd:
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- The Decemberists What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World (Capitol)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Doug Seegers Going Down To The River (Rounder)
- various artists Putumayo Presents: Café del Mundo (Putumayo)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Flight Facilities Down To Earth (Glass Note)
- Robert Earl Keen Happy Prisoner: The Bluegrass Sessions (Dualtone)
- Amy Speace That Kind of Girl (WindBone)
Top Ten February 9th – 15th:
- Rhiannon Giddens Tomorrow Is My Turn (Nonesuch)
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- The Decemberists What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World (Capitol)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- 11 Acorn Lane Time For Tea (Wooden Hat)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- The Gibson Brothers Brotherhood (Rounder)
- Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional)
- The Stray Birds Best Medicine (Yep Roc)
Top Ten February 2nd – 8th:
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- Anne McCue Blue Sky Thinkin’ (Flying Machine)
- Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Boubacar Traoré Mbalimbaou (Lusafrica)
- Elana James Black Beauty (Snarf)
- The 2 Bears The Night Is Young (Southern Fried)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
Top Ten January 26th – February 1st:
- Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti/Epitaph)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Anne McCue Blue Sky Thinkin’ (Flying Machine)
- The Stray Birds Best Medicine (Yep Roc)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Donna Hughes Fly (independent)
- Intended Immigration Una Cartina (Wooden Hat)
- The Sweet Lowdown Chasing The Sun (independent)
Music of the Moment For February 2015:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Bettye LaVette Worthy (Cherry Red) – Bettye just celebrated her 69th birthday and she displays all her singing prowess on her 11th solo recording. Produced by Joe Henry, who once again surrounded her with a terrific group of musicians, she sings her way through songs written by Bob, Mick & Keith, John & Paul, etc. Bettye LaVatte sure knows how to interpret a song!
2. Pops Staples Don’t Lose This (Anti) – In 1999, Roebuck “Pops” Staples recorded his final session which remained unfinished when he passed away in 2000. Before he died, he gave the tapes a listen and then told his daughter Mavis “don’t lose this”. She has been hanging on to them ever since, waiting to find the right person to help her finish them, and Jeff Tweedy was that guy. With his daughters backing him, Pops sounds as present as he was on the Staple Singers first recording.
3. Gretchen Peters Blackbirds (Scarlet Letter) – Recently inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame last fall, Gretchen has been penning hit songs for other artists for over two decades. But, I think she saves her best songs for her own albums. The artistry and craft of her writing and singing on Blackbirds is darn right breathtaking at times. Give The Cure for the Pain a listen and see if you don’t agree.
4. Anne McCue Blue Sky Thinkin’ (Flying Machine) – Aussie Anne McCue took five years to create this album because she “wanted to make a great album”. So, did she? Absolutely. Blue Sky Thinkin’ is primarily a Blues album with solid touches of jazz and folk, but no matter how you define the music, it’s just darn fun.
5. The Gibson Brothers Brotherhood (Rounder) – There is something special about listening to sibling harmonies. Where two voices blend perfectly to sound like one. In Bluegrass music, brother duets have been especially important: the Monroes, Stanleys, Louvins, Osbornes, McReynolds just to name a few. On their 12th recording, The Gibson Brothers pay loving homage to the brother duets that have inspired them.
Last Month’s top 3 releases:
1. Heroes of the Dancefloor Shelter (independent) – A really terrific recording from a group of artists coming together for a good cause. This album is their 3rd one to support a homeless shelter in New Orleans, and all proceeds including the mechanicals and publishing will go to the shelter. The music reflects the roots of New Orleans music and is a nice mixture of traditional Jazz and Hip Hop
2. Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain) – This is a recording that had three basic purposes. Eric wanted to create a collection of songs about the history of African Americans, continue Dr. King’s emphasis on change and hope, and also celebrate the tribe of Blues troubadours by collaborating with many of his friends involved in blues and roots music.
3. Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional) – “DJ Bitman is a Chilean electronic music producer, composer, and DJ. This is funky instrumental Hip Hop, tropical electronica, and reggae-infused future bass. It’s really tight, innovative, fresh and forward-moving.” – Jill Freidberg host of Sabor
Continue reading →Top Ten January 19th – 25th:
Showing more 12th Man pride this week. Go Hawks!
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional)
- various artists Favourite Scottish Songs (Greentrax)
- T Bird & The Breaks Harmonizm (independent)
- The Gibson Brothers Brotherhood (Rounder)
- Paul Kelly The Merri Soul Sessions (GawdAggie)
- Anne McCue Blue Sky Thinkin’ (Flying Machine)
- The Stray Birds Best Medicine (Yep Roc)
- Peter Joseph Burtt And The Kingtide Bone To Stone (Sparco)
- Tosca Outta Here (!K7)
- Centavrvs Sombras de Oro (Nacional)
Top Ten January 12th – 18th:
To celebrate the Seahawk’s advancement to the 49th Superbowl, we have a top 12 for this week.
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Tosca Outta Here (!K7)
- Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional)
- The Stray Birds Best Medicine (Yep Roc)
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret (A440)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Kristin Andreassen Gondolier (Yellowcar)
- The Early Mays The Early Mays (independent)
- Jerry Lee Lewis Rock & Roll Time (Shangri La)
- Submotion Orchestra Alium (Counter)
- T Bird & The Breaks Harmonizm (independent)
Top Ten January 5th – 11th:
To celebrate the Seahawk’s advancement to the NFC Championship game, we have a top 12 for this week.
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Kate Rusby Ghost (Pure)
- Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional)
- Tosca Outta Here (!K7)
- Lucinda Williams Down Where The Spirit Meets The Bone (Highway 20)
- Etana I Rise (VP)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Monica Heldal Boy From The North (Warner)
- Run Boy Run Something To Someone (independent)
- Jonah Tolchin Clover Lane (Yep Roc)
Top Ten December 29th – January 4th:
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Etana I Rise (VP)
- Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional)
- Lucinda Williams Down Where The Spirit Meets The Bone (Highway 20)
- Red Martina Come on Home (Badtape)
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret (A440)
- Leonard Cohen Popular Problems (Columbia)
- Captain Planet Esperanto Slang (Bastard Jazz)
Top Ten December 22nd – 28th:
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama & Taj Mahal Talkin’ Christmas! (Sony)
- Leonard Cohen Popular Problems (Columbia)
- Latin Bitman Airplane (Nacional)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Aurelio Lándini (Real World)
- Keith Murphy Suffer No Loss (independent)
- Red Martina Come on Home (Badtape)
Top Ten December 15th – 21st:
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- various artists An Americana Christmas (New West)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama & Taj Mahal Talkin’ Christmas! (Sony)
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret ( A440)
- Kate Rusby Ghost (Pure)
- Congo Sanchez Dealin’ With This (Herb)
- Sly & The Family Stone I’m Just Like You: Sly’s Stone Flower 1969-70 (Light In The Attic)
- Submotion Orchestra Alium (Counter)
Top Ten December 8th – 15th:
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Heroes Of The Dancefloor Shelter (independent)
- Lucinda Williams Down Where The Spirit Meets The Bone (Highway 20)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Red Martina Come on Home (Badtape)
- Hot Rize When I’m Free (Ten In Hand)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama & Taj Mahal Talkin’ Christmas! (Sony)
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret (A440)
- Sly & The Family Stone I’m Just Like You: Sly’s Stone Flower 1969-70 (Light In The Attic)
Top Ten December 1st – 7th:
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Etana I Rise (VP)
- Red Martina Come on Home (Badtape)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Tosca Outta Here (!K7)
- Leonard Cohen Popular Problems (Columbia)
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret (A440)
- Captain Planet Esperanto Slang (Bastard Jazz)
- The New Basement Tapes Lost On The River (Electro Magnetic/Harvest)
Music of the Moment For December 2014:
Music of the Moment
5 brand new holiday releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
- The Living Sisters Harmony Is Real (Vanguard) – Becky Stark, Eleni Mandell, Inara George and Alex Lilly have created one of my favorite holiday recordings for 2014. Lots of original material penned by these ladies. So, if you are tired of listening to the typical holiday music, give this one a listen.
- Over the Rhine Blood Oranges in the Snow (independent) – This Ohio based husband & wife duo have created a holiday inspired album which they describe as “reality Christmas music” for those who want to acknowledge the bleak side of the holiday season. It is certainly not the merriest of holiday recordings but, if you listen close enough, there are plenty of hope filled moments.
- Marilyn Scott Get Christmas Started! (Prana) – This recording is for those who want their holiday music to be more on the traditional side but with hip-shakin’ grooves. This will surely get your party guests up and dancing.
- Blind Boys of Alabama & Taj Mahal Talkin’ Christmas! (Sony) – The Blind Boys of Alabama cover traditional Christmas carols and pen a few new ones for this new Christmas record. Taj adds his tasty guitar licks throughout the recording.
- Various artists An Americana Christmas (New West) – This is a mix of new and traditional holiday carols, and features well-known artists for fans of Americana music. Be sure to check out Valerie June’s version of “Winter Wonderland”.
Continue reading →Top Ten Recordings for 2014
The new releases most played in 2014
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax/Concod)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- Keb Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
Continue reading →Top Ten November 24th – 30th:
- Hot Rize When I’m Free (Ten In Hand)
- Thompson Family (Fantasy)
- Etana I Rise (VP)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley Before The Sun Goes Down (Compass)
- The Early Mays The Early Mays (independent)
- Lizzy Hoyt New Lady On The Prairie (Blue Crown)
- My Brightest Diamond This Is My Hand (Asthmatic Kitty)
- The Stray Birds Best Medicine (Yep Roc)
- Lucinda Williams Down Where The Spirit Meets The Bone (Highway 20)
Top Ten November 17th – 23rd:
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret (A440)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- The Mighty Sceptres All Hail the Mighty Sceptres (Ubiquity)
- Nortec Collective Presents: Bostich+Fuss Motel Baja (Orchard)
- Red Martina Come on Home (Badtape)
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Hot Rize When I’m Free (Ten In Hand)
- Run Boy Run Something To Someone (independent)
Top Ten November 10th – 16th:
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Bill Frisell Guitar in the Space Age (Okeh)
- Various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Etana I Rise (VP)
- Leonard Cohen Popular Problems (Columbia)
- Red Martina Come on Home (Badtape)
- Nortec Collective Presents: Bostich+Fuss Motel Baja (Orchard)
- Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn (Rounder)
- Rose Cousins Stray Birds (EP) (Old Farm Pony)
Top Ten November 3rd – 9th:
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Etana I Rise (VP)
- Eric Bibb Blues People (Stony Plain)
- Max Capote Aperitivo de Moda (independent)
- Jungle Fire Tropicoso (Nacional)
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret (A440)
- Mariachi El Bronx Mariachi El Bronx [III] (ATO)
- Jerry Lee Lewis Rock & Roll Time (Shangri La)
- Moreno Veloso Coisa Boa (Luaka Bop)
Music of the Moment For November 2014:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
- Etana I Rise (VP) – In Swahili, Etana translates to ‘The Strong One’, which is an apt name for a female artist in the male dominated genre of Reggae music. She has a lovely voice and her lyrics convey positive messages. The music falls into the reggae roots category and it also contains a hint of R&B and Jazz. I Rise is her 4th recording and has been receiving a lot of airplay on The Caravan and Music + Ideas.
- Leonard Cohen Popular Problems (Columbia) – There aren’t too many 80 year old artists, who are still creating amazing music (Willie Nelson comes to my mind). Mr. Cohen continues to write poetic songs which are certainly worth the price of admission and then some.
- Nikki Yanofsky Little Secret (A440) – A young Canadian who has worked with Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Phil Ramone and others, Nikki’s sophomore release was produced by Quincy Jones. The music is pure pop music fun with some elements of jazz and music from the 60s. If you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself dancing along to the music in no time.
- Becky Buller ‘Tween Earth and Sky (Dark Shadow) – This is Becky’s first solo recording in 10 years, and it is certainly worth the wait. Primarily known as a terrific fiddler, she is also just as gifted in songwriting and singing. There are a whole host of guest artists participating on this album. Making this a pretty darn tasty bluegrass recording.
- Red Martina Come On Home (Badtape) – 2nd release from this superb downtempo hip-hop band out of Philly who avoids the infamous sophomore slump. Haley Cass’s vocals are really great and the whole album should have wide crossover appeal.
Last Month’s top 3 releases:
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk) – The #1 most played album for a second month. Yep, it’s just that good.
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord) – Falling once again on the most played album list. There is much here for young and old music fans.
- Max Capote Aperitivo de Moda (independent) – Uruguayan musician who blends bossa nova, garage rock, funk and throw-back pop. Not to mention a highly noticeable album cover. Occasionally cheesy, always fun.
Top Ten October 27th – November 2nd:
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Etana I Rise (VP)
- Soul Scratch Down The Road (independent)
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Max Capote Aperitivo de Moda (independent)
- Louise Mosrie Lay It Down (independent)
- Jungle Fire Tropicoso (Nacional)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Nortec Collective Presents: Bostich+Fuss Motel Baja (Orchard)
- SpokFrevo Orquestra Ninho de Vespa (Motema)
Top Ten October 13th – 19th:
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- Sinkane Mean Love (DFA)
- various Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Soul Scratch Down The Road (independent)
- Tony Allen Film Of Life (Jazz Village)
- Dom Flemons Prospect Hill (Music Maker)
- The Stray Birds Best Medicine (Yep Roc)
- Captain Planet Esperanto Slang (Bastard Jazz)
Top Ten October 6th – 12th:
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Jungle Fire Tropicoso (Nacional)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- Nortec Collective Presents: Bostich+Fuss Motel Baja (Orchard)
- Captain Planet Esperanto Slang (Bastard Jazz)
- Béla Fleck And Abigail Washburn Béla Fleck And Abigail Washburn (Rounder)
- Chris Smither Still On The Levee (Signature Sounds)
Top Ten September 29th – October 5th:
- Jungle Fire Tropicoso (Nacional)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Nortec Collective Presents: Bostich+Fuss Motel Baja (Orchard)
- Béla Fleck And Abigail Washburn Béla Fleck And Abigail Washburn (Rounder)
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Jonathan Byrd You Can’t Outrun The Radio (Waterbug)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Catherine MacLellan The Raven’s Sun (independent)
- Awa Sangho Ala Ta (Motema)
- The Stray Birds Best Medicine (Yep Roc)
Music of the Moment For October 2014:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Jungle Fire Tropicoso (Nacional) – If you are a fan of Afrobeat and Latin music, this album is for you. Jungle Fire is an Afro-Latin funk band out of LA, and their music is so lively, it may set your speakers on fire while you dance away your end-of-summer blues.
2. My Brightest Diamond This Is My Hand (Asthmatic Kitty) – Detroit’s Shara Worden makes interesting pop music. Although you may not find a chorus on repeat in your head, her songwriting is powerful, deep and multi-layered. As you sit with this album, it unfolds with the beauty of a novel.
3. Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn (Rounder) – Married since ’09, it was only a matter of time before these two made a recording together, and this CD is just that- the two of them playing seven different banjos tuned to different registers. I love this record. It is beautiful, complex and full of surprises. Their love of music shines through like they have a full band backing them. One would never guess it was just several banjos.
4. Captain Planet Esperanto Slang (Bastard Jazz) – This is the 2nd album from this globe- trotting beat maker. Combing beats with a Latin, Brazilian and other world rhythms makes this album perfect for those soon to be present gray days.
5. Doug Seegers [going down to the river] (Rounder) – At 62, Doug has been a rambler for most of his life; making a living by busking on street corners in Austin, and most recently Nashville, which means it hasn’t been an easy one. His future started to get brighter after being discovered by a Swedish country music star at a Nashville food pantry. Doug’s heartfelt music is honest, pure and flat out wonderful. This is a must-hear record for anyone who likes traditional country music.
Last Month’s top 3 releases:
1. various Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax/Concord) – This soundtrack is a fun mash-up of Stax Records legends and Memphis artists young and old celebrating their home town.
2. Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk) – Frazey’s 2nd solo recording was made w/ Al Green’s former band The Hi Rhythm Section which gives even the ballads a deep, soulful groove. Paired with her unique voice, this music is anything but ordinary.
3. Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass) – Mike’s energetic, soul-gospel blended music is heavy in the message, but you can dance your ass off to it, too.
Continue reading →Top Ten September 22nd – 28th:
- various Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Henry Butler & Steven Bernstein Viper’s Drag (Impulse)
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- The Earls of Leicester The Earls Of Leicester (Rounder)
- The Bad Plus Inevitable Western (Sony)
- Dr. John Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit Of Satch (Concord)
- Mark Erelli Milltowns (independent)
Top Ten September 15th – 21st:
- various artists Take Me To The River Soundtrack (Stax / Concord)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Basement Jaxx Junto (Atlantic Jaxx/PIAS)
- Missy Andersen In The Moment (Main Squeeze)
- Henry Butler & Steven Bernstein Viper’s Drag (Impulse)
- Dr. John Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit Of Satch (Concord)
- Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens Cold World (Daptone)
Top Ten September 8th – 14th:
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Abstrakto Abstrako (Purple Haus)
- Lynne Hanson River Of Sand (independent)
- Old Crow Medicine Show Remedy (ATO)
- Anushka Broken Circuit (Brownswood)
- Jill Barber Fool’s Gold (Outside)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Somi The Lagos Music Salon (Okey)
Top Ten September 1st – 7th:
- various artists Soundtrack to Take Me To The River (Stax / Concord)
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Dr. John Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit Of Satch (Concord)
- Catherine MacLellan The Raven’s Sun (independent)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Frazey Ford Indian Ocean (Nettwerk)
- Soul Scratch Down The Road (independent)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens Cold World (Daptone)
Music of the Moment For September 2014:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Mark Erelli Milltowns (independent) – This album is a beautiful tribute to singer-songwriter Bill Morrissey, who passed away a little over 2 years ago. Bill was a master when it came to capturing the images of everyday life. The nuances of the instrumentation and Mark’s voice throughout the album are stunning. The title track is an original piece that Mark penned about his first and last meeting with Bill.
2. Lynne Hanson River of Sand (independent) – Excellent songwriting is offered throughout this Canadian’s 4th recording. Each song is made with nuggets of intelligent original creativity, and Lynn Miles’ production perfectly captures the essence of the songs. If you like your music in the middle ground between folk, country and Americana, you should definitely check this record out.
3. Various Artists Look Again to the Wind: Johnny Cash’s Bitter Tears Revisited (Sony) – A stunning look at Johnny Cash’s best known, least heard record. There’s nothing easy about this album- then or now. Maybe even more so now as things have not changed much for the Native Americans in the 50 years since this music was first recorded. Musically the album works, better than the original, as the mix of voices adds a lovely complexity; lyrically it remains stark and humbling. It also serves as a reminder of the lost talent of Peter La Farge. [Review by Iaan Hughes]
Continue reading →Top Ten August 25th – 31st:
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Dr. John Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit Of Satch (Concord)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- Somi The Lagos Music Salon (Okey)
- Mike Farris Shine For All The People (Compass)
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Mark Erelli Milltowns (independent)
- Playing For Change PFC3: Songs Around the World (Timeless)
- Vaneese Thomas Blues For My Father (Segue)
Top Ten August 18th – 24th:
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Somi The Lagos Music Salon (Okey)
- Dr. John Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit Of Satch (Concord)
- various artists Playing For Change 3: Songs Around the World (Timeless)
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Jill Barber Fool’s Gold (Outside)
- Eric Clapton & Friends The Breeze- An Appreciation Of JJ Cale (Bushbranch/Surfdog)
- Anushka Broken Circuit (Brownswood)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
Top Ten August 11th – 17th:
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- Vaneese Thomas Blues For My Father (Segue)
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens Cold World (Daptone)
- Melaza Melaza (Chulo)
- various artists Playing For Change 3: Songs Around the World (Timeless)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog)
- Márcio Faraco Cajueiro (World Village)
Top Ten August 4th – 10th:
- Ruthie Foster Promise of a Brand New Day (Blue Corn)
- Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens Cold World (Daptone)
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Catherine MacLellan The Raven’s Sun (independent)
- Phox Phox (Partisan)
- Vaneese Thomas Blues For My Father (Segue)
- John Hiatt Terms Of My Surrender (New West)
- various artists Classic African American Songsters (Smithsonian Folkways)
- Melaza Melaza (Chulo)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
Music of the Moment
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Ruthie Foster Promise of a New Day (Blue Corn) – KBCS has been playing Ruthie’s music for years, and her new album is sure to continue that tradition. Meshell Ndegeocello produced the album and she’s perfectly captured Ruthie’s amazing voice and the blend of Soul, Blues and Gospel music you will find here. This album does a fine job of capturing Ruthie being true to herself, to which I say “hell ya!”
2. Catherine MacLellan The Raven’s Sun (independent) – Catherine is the daughter of Canadian singer-songwriter Gene MacLellan, who penned “Snow Bird”, “Put Your Hand in the Hand”, etc. Catherine recorded the album with her life and music partner Chris Gauthier. Her voice has never sounded better, and she once again has written some mighty fine songs. This is an album best to be savored with repeated listens.
3. Haas Kowert Tice You Got This (independent) – Three stellar musicians have come together and created a recording full of delightful textures and tones. Brittany Haas (Crooked Still), Paul Kowert (Punch Brothers) and Jordan Tice (Tony Trischka) are considered some of the best musicians on their respective instruments. Playing off of each other, the music conveys wonderful complex effortlessness. A must hear for any budding musician or fan of acoustic music.
4. Vaneese Thomas Blues For My Father (Segue) – Family legacy is often a mixed blessing. Vaneese is the daughter of Rufus Thomas, and the younger sister to Carla Thomas. Heady company indeed, but she totally holds her own on her new record. She penned most of the songs, and there’s a duet with her father and her sister on this album. A terrific mix of Blues and R&B/Soul.
5. Peliroja Injusticia (Chulo) – This New York collective was “inspired by the sounds of Ethiopia, the Dominican Republic, Cuba and the Congo”. The band consists of members from The Daptones, the Pedrito Martinez Group and Los Hacheros. Their sound captures sitting on a front stoop on a hot summer day in New York circa 1974. Take a trip with Peliroja, won’t you? You won’t regret it.
Last month’s top 3 releases:
1. Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog) – one exceptional album, with one exceptional voice. We just can’t hear enough of this and we know you agree.
2. Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder) – First full-length album from this composer, producer, multi-instrumentalist DJ. Just like his father Bobby, he’s not afraid to mash up musical styles to create music that pays homage to the past, yet sounds completely new.
3. Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent) – now here is an artist that has been creating music for a long while. Yet this new album finds him still completely hitting his stride. A really good album from start to finish.
Continue reading →Top Ten July 14th – 20th:
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens Cold World (Daptone)
- Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog)
- Vaneese Thomas Blues For My Father (Segue)
- Chatham County Line Tightrope (Yep Roc)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- various artists Playing For Change 3: Songs Around the World (Timeless)
- John Hiatt Terms Of My Surrender (New West)
- Rebirth Brass Band Move Your Body (Basin Street)
- Red Molly The Red Album (independent)
Top Ten June 30th – July 6th:
- Playing For Change PFC3: Songs Around the World (Timeless)
- Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog)
- Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens Cold World (Daptone)
- Zoe Muth World of Strangers (Signature Sounds)
- Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison Our Year (Premium)
- Jacob Bain & Publish The Quest A Thousand Kinds Of Gold (independent)
- The Delines Colfax (El Cortez)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Rebirth Brass Band Move Your Body (Basin Street)
- various Six Degrees of Brazil, Vol. 2 (Six Degrees)
Top Ten June 23rd – 29th:
- Los Hacheros Pilon (Chulo)
- Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog)
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Taylor McFerrin Early Riser (Brainfeeder)
- various Playing For Change 3: Songs Around the World (Timeless)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Seth Walker Sky Still Blue (Royal Potato Family)
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
- José James While You Were Sleeping (Blue Note)
- Melaza Melaza (Chulo)
Music of the Moment:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog) – It’s taken a bit of time, but Eden is finally receiving the recognition she deserves with her 4th release. The music on this disc incorporates blues, jazz, soul and gospel, but it’s her voice that captures your ears. Soulful with power, Eden’s vocal prowess is second to none whether she’s singing a slow ballad, or backing her boogie-woogie blues piano playing. A really terrific recording.
2. Various Artists Playing For Change 3: Songs Around the World (independent) – Started in 2007, this is the newest chapter in their ambition to “connect the world through music”. The best thing about these compilations is the camaraderie between artists. They all sound like they are having the best time of their life.
3. Melaza self-titled (Chulo) – Long, warm summer days just call for hot, dance music. Melaza is a 14 piece salsa band from New York City that are play traditional salsa music with a good dash of NY soul. Fun stuff!
4. Balsam Range Five (Mountain Home) – This bluegrass band derived their name from where the Smokies meet the Blue Ridge in Haywood County, NC. This is their fifth album, and they completely nail old school bluegrass without treading into the predictable. Terrific material, soulful harmony singing and they play the hell out of their instruments.
5. Willie Nelson Band of Brothers (Sony) – Willie has made a lot of albums. 7 in the last 5 years. It’s been a little while though, since he penned a new song he wanted to put on a new record. Fortunately, that drought is over. On Band of Brothers, Willie shares writing credits on nine of the fourteen tracks with Buddy Cannon. This is a terrific example of what Willie does best. Country to its core.
Last Month’s top 3 releases:
1. Zoe Muth World of Strangers (Signature Sounds) – Always a favorite with the KBCS DJs, Zoe’s first Austin record finds her stretching out her music to more Americana corners with the help of producer George Reiff. This album is drier and dustier than her first 2 Seattle made records, but the characters in her songs are familiar, and her voice remains as captivating as ever.
2. tUnE-yArDs Nikki Nack (4AD) – Merrill Garbus’ music is often a fav of music critics, and for good reason, she makes pop music that is never predictable. This 3rd release doesn’t disappoint as she brings more African and Caribbean- inspired sounds to the fore. Music for those who like to be as far away from “traditional sound” as one can possibly get and remain on the planet.
3. Dave Alvin and Phil Alvin Common Ground: Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin Play and Sing the Songs of Big Bill Broonzy (Yep Roc) – 29 years after their last full record together, the Alvin Brothers, spurred on by Phil’s recent near death experience, are back with a terrific tribute to the one thing they have always agreed on, the great music of blues legend Big Bill Broonzy.
Continue reading →Top Ten June 16th – 22nd:
- T Sisters Kindred Lines (Spruce & Maple)
- Rodney Crowell Tarpaper Sky (New West)
- Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL)
- Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog)
- Keb’ Mo’ Bluesamericana (independent)
- Johnny Clegg Best, Live & Unplugged at the Baxter Theatre, Cape Town (Appleseed)
- Dave Alvin and Phil Alvin Common Ground (Yep Roc)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Zoe Muth World of Strangers (Signature Sounds)
- Chatham County Line Tightrope (Yep Roc)
Top Ten June 9th – 15th:
- Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog)
- Quantic Magnetica (Tru Thoughts)
- Red Molly The Red Album (independent)
- Bryan Sutton Into My Own (Sugar Hill)
- Queen Esther The Other Side (independent)
- tUnE-yArDs Nikki Nack (4AD)
- John Fullbright Songs (Blue Dirt)
- Eliza Gilkyson The Nocturne Diaries (Red House)
- Zoe Muth World of Strangers (Signature Sounds)
- Grieves Winter & The Wolves (Rhymesayers)
Top Ten June 2nd – 8th:
- True North Elsebound (independent)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- tUnE-yArDs Nikki Nack (4AD)
- Greyhounds Accumulator (Ardent)
- Glen David Andrews Redemption (Louisiana Red Hot)
- The Impellers My Certainty (Légére)
- Ilhan Ersahin’s Wonderland The Other Side (Nublu)
- Eden Brent Jigsaw Heart (Yellow Dog)
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
- various Six Degrees of Brazil, Vol. 2 (Six Degrees)
Top Ten May 26th – June 1st:
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- various Six Degrees of Brazil, Vol. 2 (Six Degrees)
- Brigitte DeMeyer Savannah Road (independent)
- Mary Gauthier Trouble & Love (In The Black)
- Sorceress Dose (Wonderwheel)
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
- John Fullbright Songs (Blue Dirt)
- Zoe Muth World of Strangers (Signature Sounds)
- Rodney Crowell Tarpaper Sky (New West)
- La Misa Negra Misa De Medianoche (NAM)
Music of the Moment:
Music of the Moment:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. John Fullbright Songs (Blue Dirt) – If having a talent for brilliant songwriting is an indicator of a successful career, this young man should be a household name by now. Yes, he is indeed, just that good. If you like really good songwriting, and aren’t familiar with him, I’d strongly suggest you check out his music ASAP.
2. Truth North Elsebound (independent) – 3rd album from this Oregon quartet. Most of the songs are original pieces by Kristen Grainger. Who is a darn fine songwriter as well as lead singer. Dale Adkins guitar pickin’ adds a deft touch, and the bands harmonies are wonderful.
3. Toumani & Sidiki Diabaté Toumani & Sidiki (World Circuit) – Deliciously exquisite set of father and son duets on the harp-like West African kora. Stunning instrumental music from start to finish.
4. Phox Phox (Partisan) – Unconventional Midwest band lead by vocalist and songwriter Monica Martin, who has one heck of a voice. With instruments as varied as banjo, clarinet, toy piano and glockenspiel interwoven with the traditional bass-drums-guitar, this is not your usual pop music. Check it out; your ears will be rewarded.
5. Bruce Robison & Kelly Willis Our Year (Premium) – This is the 3rd release from this Austin husband and wife super duo. They wanted to capture the “swampier, grittier side” of country music, and they nailed it. Full of warmth, joy and downright fun.
Last Month’s Top 3 Releases:
1. Kelis Food (Ninja Tune) – A superb new record which just keeps hitting the sweet spot on Music + Ideas.
2. The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator) – You just can’t go wrong with soulful brother harmonies.
3. Mexican Dubwiser Electric City (Koolarrow) – This LA dj has been putting his own spin on remixing contemporary Latin music.
Continue reading →Top Ten May 19th – 25th:
- True North Elsebound (independent)
- Toumani and Sidiki Diabaté Toumani & Sidiki (Nonesuch)
- Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (Jazz Village)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
- Aloe Blacc Lift Your Spirit (Interscope)
- Jenny Scheinman The Littlest Prisoner (Sony Masterworks)
- Run Boy Run So Sang The Whippoorwill (independent)
- T Sisters Kindred Lines (Spruce & Maple)
- Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL)
Top Ten May 12th – 18th:
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
- Mexican Dubwiser Electric City (Koolarrow)
- Cody Chesnutt Landing On A Hundred: B Sides And Remixes (Vibration Vineyard)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Bryan Sutton Into My Own (Sugar Hill)
- Brigitte DeMeyer Savannah Road (independent)
- Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (Jazz Village)
- John Németh Memphis Grease (Blue Corn)
- Nikki Lane All Or Nothin’ (New West)
- Aloe Blacc Lift Your Spirit (Interscope)
Top Ten May 5th – 11th:
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
- Brigitte DeMeyer Savannah Road (independent)
- True North Elsebound (independent)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (JazzVillage)
- Ibibio Sound Machine Ibibio Sound Machine (Soundway)
- Aloe Blacc Lift Your Spirit (Interscope)
- T Sisters Kindred Lines (Spruce & Maple)
- Sonny Knight & The Lakers I’m Still Here (Secret Stash)
- Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL)
Top Ten April 28th – May 4th:
- Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL)
- Zoe Muth World of Strangers (Signature Sounds)
- Sonny Knight & The Lakers I’m Still Here (Secret Stash)
- Brigitte DeMeyer Savannah Road (independent)
- Cody Chesnutt Landing On A Hundred: B Sides And Remixes (Vibration Vineyard)
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
- Leon Russell Life Journey (Universal)
- Rodney Crowell Tarpaper Sky (New West)
- Ikebe Shakedown Stone By Stone (Ubiquity)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
Music of the Moment:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Jenny Scheinman The Littlest Prisoner (Sony Masterworks) – Jenny is a “Jill” of all musical trades—violinist, composer, band-leader, and a fantastic songwriter. Jenny regularly collaborates with big names like Bill Frisell, Norah Jones and Sean Lennon. Except for the 3 instrumentals pieces, Jenny’s songs allow lots of space for contemplation between the notes. The music will make you sway and her lyrics will catch your imagination.
2. Willie Watson Folk Singer (Acony) – Former member of the old-time band, Old Crow Medicine Show, steps out with his first solo, produced by David Rawlings and Gillian Welch. The music recalls the shouts and hollers, in the best possible way, of Ola Belle Reed, Bascom Lamar Lunsford and Leadbelly.
3. Brigitte DeMeyer Savannah Road (independent) – One of the best Americana releases at KBCS right now. A bluesy, country, folky recording that captures her wonderful, soulful, sultry sound. This is a perfect release for Seattle summer nights.
4. Ben & Ellen Harper Childhood Home (Prestige Folklore/Concord) – The well-known solo artist surprises with a lovely acoustic collaboration with his musician mother, herself a talented artist. They each penned originals pieces for the album.
5. Flaco Jiménez & Max Baca Flaco & Max: Legends & Legacies (Smithsonian Folkways) – Two legends of traditional conjunto music, each carrying on their family traditions and establishing a bright future for this roots music. Let the dancing begin!
Last month’s top 3 releases:
1. The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator) – A terrific funky recording from these gospel and R&B mainstays with some choice covers as well as originals pieces.
2. Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL) – 7th album from this DC duo. Incorporating downtempo, Brazilian grooves, it evokes the ghosts of bossa nova, warm sunshine and gentle breezes.
3. Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (Jazz Village) – This description of her new album says it best: “Her songs blend the spirituality of soul, the intensity of the blues, the aestheticism of jazz and the energy of her rock roots. So don’t be surprised should your ears detect the spirits of Nina Simone, Thelonious Monk and Janis Joplin.”
Continue reading →Top Ten April 21st – 27th:
- Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (JazzVillage)
- Sonny Knight & The Lakers I’m Still Here (Secret Stash)
- Brigitte DeMeyer Savannah Road (independent)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Cody Chesnutt Landing On A Hundred: B Sides And Remixes (Vibration Vineyard)
- Ikebe Shakedown Stone By Stone (Ubiquity)
- Aloe Blacc Lift Your Spirit (Interscope)
- Shook Twins What We Do (independent)
- Nikki Lane All Or Nothin’ (New West)
- Kelis Food (Ninja Tune)
Top Ten April 14th – 20th:
- Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL)
- Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (JazzVillage)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Kathy Kallick Cut To The Chase (Live Oak)
- Ibibio Sound Machine Ibibio Sound Machine (Soundway)
- Laurie Lewis with Tom Rozum & Nina Gerber One Evening in May (Spruce & Maple)
- John Németh Memphis Grease (Blue Corn)
- Cahalen Morrison & Eli West I’ll Swing My Hammer With Both My Hands (independent)
- Alsarah & The Nubatones Silt (Wonderwheel)
- Thomas Blondet Future World (Rhythm & Culture)
Top Ten April 7th – 13th:
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Bibi Tanga Now (Jazz Village)
- Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-Stars Libation (Cumbancha)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (JazzVillage)
- Caetano Veloso Abraçaço (Universal)
- Eliza Gilkyson The Nocturne Diaries (Red House)
- Infamous Stringdusters Let It Go (Highcountry)
- John Németh Memphis Grease (Blue Corn)
- The Seldom Scene Long Time… Seldom Scene (Smithsonian Folkways)
Top Ten March 31st – April 6th:
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- John Németh Memphis Grease (Blue Corn)
- Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL)
- Alsarah & The Nubatones Silt (Wonderwheel)
- Johnny Cash Out Among The Stars (Sony)
- Ikebe Shakedown Stone By Stone (Ubiquity)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Leon Russell Life Journey (Universal)
- Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-Stars Libation (Cumbancha)
- Caetano Veloso Abraçaço (Universal)
Music of the Moment:
Five new releases that we can’t wait to share with you this month:
1. Rodney Crowell Tarpaper Sky (New West) – Rodney continues to pen deceptively simple songs that hold brilliant nuggets of wisdom.
May you always stay in touch with the things
That keep you young.
When you’re staring at injustice
May you never bit your tongue.He is certainly not an artist resting on his laurels.
2. Thievery Corporation Saudade (ESL) – 7th album from this DC duo, incorporating downtempo Brazilian grooves. It evokes the ghosts of bossa nova, warm sunshine and gentle breezes.
3. The Henry Girls Louder Than Words (Beste Unterhaltung) – These Irish sisters seem to be hitting their stride on their 5th release. The U.S. is late to the party where their music is concerned, but if you like creative folk music with beautiful harmonies, then be sure to give their music a listen.
4. Bryan Sutton Into My Own (Sugar Hill) – Bryan is the ‘go to’ guy in Nashville for anyone looking to add brilliant guitar playing on their record. He’s played with everyone from Dolly Parton to Harry Connick, Jr. to Lionel Ritchie, and all points in between. His new solo recording finds him adding his lovely voice to his picking skills, all of which makes for a truly wonderful recording.
5. Natalia M. King SoulBLAZZ (Jazz Village) – This Brooklyn native started her music career in a LA blues-rock trio. In due course, she gave it all up, bought an acoustic guitar and a one-way plane ticket to France. There she found success as a solo artist. This description of her new album says it best: “Her songs blend the spirituality of soul, the intensity of the blues, the aestheticism of jazz and the energy of her rock roots. So don’t be surprised should your ears detect the spirits of Nina Simone, Thelonious Monk and Janis Joplin.”
KBCS Top 3 of March 2014:
1. Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-Stars Libation (Cumbancha) – Their 10th anniversary and album finds these gentlemen celebrating their musical roots, their many blessings and their musical heritage.
2. St. Paul & The Broken Bones Half The City (Single Lock) – Lead singer Paul Janeway possesses a voice that immediately captures your ears, and his band’s retro soul sound matches it perfectly.
3. Alsarah & The Nubatones Silt (Wonderwheel) – Debut recording for this NYC group. The album depicts the fusion of music occurring in the 1970’s in Arabic & North Africa musical influences; it has its musical roots in the Nubian “Songs of Return”.
Continue reading →Top Ten March 24th – 30th:
- Alsarah & The Nubatones Silt (Wonderwheel)
- The Holmes Brothers Brotherhood (Alligator)
- Ikebe Shakedown Stone By Stone (Ubiquity)
- John Németh Memphis Grease (Blue Corn)
- Tattletale Saints How Red Is The Blood (Old Oak)
- Thomas Blondet Future World (Rhythm & Culture)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- La Misa Negra Misa De Medianoche (NAM)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- various A Tribute To 80s Dylan (ATO)
Continue reading →Top Ten: March 17th – 23rd:
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-Stars Libation ( Cumbancha)
- Hanneke Cassel Dot The Dragon’s Eyes (independent)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- various The Rhythms of Black Peru (Secret Stash)
- The Sojourners Sing and Never Get Tired (Little Pig)
- John Németh Memphis Grease (Blue Corn)
- Polyrhythmics Libra Stripes (INgrooves)
- various The Rough Guide To African Blues (World Music Network)
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Half The City (Single Lock)
Top Ten: March 10th – 16th:
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- Las Cafeteras It’s Time (independent)
- Alsarah & The Nubatones Silt (Wonderwheel)
- various Riverboat Records: Music From The Source (World Music Network)
- various The Rough Guide To Latin Rare Groove (World Music Network)
- Cahalen Morrison & Eli West I’ll Swing My Hammer With Both My Hands (independent)
- Takuya Kuroda Rising Son (Blue Note)
- Catherine Russell Bring It Back (Jazz Village/Harmonia Mundi)
- Steep Ravine Trampin’ On (independent)
Top Ten: March 3rd – 9th:
- various The Rough Guide To Latin Rare Groove (World Music Network)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- John Gorka Bright Side Of Down (Red House)
- various Looking Into You – A Tribute To Jackson Browne (Music Road)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Angelique Kidjo Eve (429)
- Laurie Lewis with Tom Rozum & Nina Gerber One Evening in May (Spruce & Maple)
- Hurray For The Riff Raff Small Town Heroes (ATO)
- Cahalen Morrison & Eli West I’ll Swing My Hammer With Both My Hands (independent)
- Catherine Russell Bring It Back (Jazz Village/Harmonia Mundi)
Top Ten: February 24th – March 2nd:
- various The Rough Guide To Latin Rare Groove (World Music Network)
- Rosanne Cash The River & The Thread (Blue Note)
- Donny Hathaway Never My Love: The Anthology (Rhino/Warner)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- St. Paul & The Broken Bones Half The City (Single Lock)
- Suzy Bogguss Lucky (Loyal Dutchess)
- Bossacucanova Our Kind of Bossa (Six Degrees)
- Catherine Russell Bring It Back (Jazz Village/Harmonia Mundi)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- John Gorka Bright Side Of Down (Red House)
Music of the Moment:
Music of the Moment:
5 brand new releases we can’t wait to share with you this month:
- various The Rough Guide to Latin Rare Groove (World Music Network) – Another fun compilation from this long running series. Need to spice up your day? Put on this record and you’ll be dancing along to the music in no time.
- Laurie Lewis with Tom Rozum and Nina Gerber One Evening in May (Spruce & Maple) – A lovely, live recording of some new original material from this longtime KBCS core Americana artist.
- various Looking Into You: A Tribute to Jackson Browne (Music Road) – A faithful and excellent collection of well-known & lesser known artists celebrating a 45+ year career.
- Thomas Blondet Futureworld (Rhythm & Culture) – Debut album from this acclaimed Washington, DC DJ/producer. Full of persuasive, genre blending grooves. Perfect for those who dig beats and world music.
- Takuya Kuroda Rising Son (Blue Note) – Jazz that simmers, swirls and pulsates with large doses of R&B and electronic grooves.
Last months top 3 releases:
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent) – Not surprisingly, the KBCS music hosts are loving this powerful and gentle album from this Kenyan transplant, who now makes her home in Seattle.
- Catherine Russell Bring It Back (Jazz Village/Harmonia Mundi) – Mining often overlooked pieces from the jazz and blues songbooks, Catherine gathers them in and creates songs that are both familiar and refreshingly new.
- Bossacucanova Nossa Onda é Essa /Our Kind of Bossa (Six Degrees) – Who doesn’t want to get up and dance when spring is on the way?
Continue reading →Top Ten: February 17th – 23rd:
- Laurie Lewis with Tom Rozum & Nina Gerber One Evening in May (Spruce & Maple)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- Donny Hathaway Never My Love: The Anthology (Rhino/Warner)
- Rosanne Cash The River & The Thread (BlueNote)
- Bossacucanova Our Kind of Bossa (Six Degrees)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- The Haden Triplets The Haden Triplets (Third Man)
- Angelique Kidjo Eve (429)
- Suzy Bogguss Lucky (Loyal Dutchess)
- Cahalen Morrison & Eli West I’ll Swing My Hammer With Both My Hands (independent)
Top Ten: February 10th – 16th:
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (Independent)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Las Cafeteras It’s Time (independent)
- Bossacucanova Our Kind of Bossa (Six Degrees)
- The Haden Triplets The Haden Triplets (Third Man)
- Angelique Kidjo Eve (429)
- Hurray For The Riff Raff Small Town Heroes (ATO)
- various The Rough Guide To Latin Rare Groove (World Music Network)
Top Ten: February 3rd – 9th:
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Mamani Keita Kanou (World Village)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- Bossacucanova Our Kind of Bossa (Six Degrees)
- Cahalen Morrison & Eli West I’ll Swing My Hammer With Both My Hands (independent)
- The Haden Triplets The Haden Triplets (Third Man)
- Angelique Kidjo Eve (429)
- Tony Trischka Great Big World (Rounder)
- Donny Hathaway Never My Love: The Anthology (Rhino/Warner)
Top Ten: January 27th – February 2nd
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Rosanne Cash The River & The Thread (BlueNote)
- The Haden Triplets The Haden Triplets (Third Man)
- various Sweetheart 2014 (Hear Music)
- Neil Young Live At The Cellar Door (Reprise)
- Naomi Wachira Naomi Wachira (independent)
- Bossacucanova Nossa Onda é Essa (Our Kind of Bossa) (Six Degrees)
- Laura Cantrell No Way There From Here (Thrift Shop)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
Music of the Moment:
5 brand new releases that we can’t wait to share with you this month:
- Bossacucanova Nossa Onda é Essa (Our Kind of Bossa) – More Brazillian bossa nova fun from this trio.
- Amy Ray Goodnight Tender – One half of the Indigo Girls goes traditional country, and it totally works.
- Laura Cantrell No Way There From Here – NY songstress and radio dj with her 4th recording and her most accomplished yet.
- Cahalen Morrison & Eli West I’ll Swing My Hammer With Both My Hands – Produced by the legendary Tim O’Brien, this Seattle duo just keeps getting better and better.
- Naomi Wachira self-titled – Debut recording for this Kenyan transplant, who now makes her home in Seattle. A beautiful and an incredibly elegant recording.
Last months top 3 releases:
- Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings Give the People What They Want – Sharon spent much of last year battling cancer and she’s come back on this recording with a vengeance.
- Rosanne Cash The River & The Thread – This album is Rosanne’s delightful postcard about the South. She will be coming to town towards the end of the month at The Moore Theater.
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes – European based group that create fun music. You won’t be able to stand still listening to this album.
Top Ten: January 20th – 26th
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- Donny Hathaway Never My Love: The Anthology (Rhino/Warner)
- Rosanne Cash The River & The Thread (BlueNote)
- The Sojourners Sing & Never Get Tired (Little Pig)
- Mamani Keita Kanou ( World Village)
- Brandy Clark 12 Stories (Slate Creek)
- Eleni Mandell Let’s Fly A Kite (Yep Roc)
- Tim Grimm The Turning Point (Cavalier)
Top Ten: January 13th – 19th
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Angelique Kidjo Eve (429)
- Rosanne Cash The River & The Thread (BlueNote)
- Guy Davis Juba Dance (M.C. Records)
- various Songs for Slim: Rockin Here Tonight (New West)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- Tim Grimm The Turning Point (Cavalier)
- Catherine Russell Bring It Back (Jazz Village/Harmonia Mundi)
- Blue Highway The Game (Rounder)
- Jim Malcolm Still (Beltane)
Top Ten: January 6th – 12th
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- Billie Joe + Norah Foreverly (Warner Brothers)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- various Inside Llewyn Davis Original Soundtrack (Nonesuch)
- Red Martina Intransit (Badtape)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Rosanne Cash The River & The Thread (BlueNote)
- The Grascals When I Get My Pay (Mountain Home)
- Mollie O’Brien & Rich Moore Love Runner (Remington Road)
Top Ten: December 30th – January 5th
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Robert Glasper Experiment Black Radio 2 (Universal)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Give the People What They Want (Daptone)
- The Grascals When I Get My Pay (Mountain Home)
- Debademba Souleymane (World Village)
- various The Rough Guide To Arabic Cafe (World Music Network)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Juana Molina Wed 21 (Crammed Discs)
- Billie Joe + Norah Foreverly (Warner Brothers)
Top Ten: December 23rd – 29th
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Sarah Jarosz Build Me Up From Bones (Sugar Hill)
- The Del McCoury Band The Streets of Baltimore (McCoury Music)
- Elizabeth Mitchell & Friends The Sounding Joy: Christmas Songs In & Out of the Ruth Crawford Seeger Songbook (Smithsonian Folkways)
- Shanren Left Foot Dance Of The Yi (Riverboat)
- Nick Lowe Quality Street – A Seasonal Selection for All the Family (Yep Roc)
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- various Inside Llewyn Davis Original Soundtrack (Nonesuch)
Top Ten: December 16th – 22nd
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Nick Lowe Quality Street – A Seasonal Selection for All the Family (Yep Roc)
- Neil Young Live At The Cellar Door (Reprise)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama I’ll Find a Way (Sony Masterworks)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- Liz Carroll On The Offbeat (independent)
- Joey DeFrancesco One For Rudy (HighNote)
- Robbie Fulks Gone Away Backward (Bloodshot)
Top Ten: December 9th – 15th
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- Billie Joe + Norah Foreverly (Warner Brothers)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama I’ll Find a Way (Sony Masterworks)
- The Henry Girls December Moon (independent)
- Federico Aubele 5 (13 Records)
- Nick Lowe Quality Street – A Seasonal Selection for All the Family (Yep Roc)
- The Del McCoury Band The Streets of Baltimore (McCoury Music)
- Childsplay As The Crow Flies (independent)
Top Ten: December 1st – 8th
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Billie Joe + Norah Foreverly (Warner Brothers)
- Robbie Fulks Gone Away Backward (Bloodshot)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Da Lata Fabiola (Agogo)
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- Elvis Costello And The Roots Wise Up Ghost & Other Songs (BlueNote)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- The Grascals When I Get My Pay (Mountain Home)
- Robert Glasper Experiment Black Radio 2 (Universal)
Top Ten: November 25th – December 1st
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama I’ll Find a Way (Sony Masterworks)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Maylee Todd Escapology (Do Right Music)
- Debademba Souleymane (World Village)
- The Henry Girls December Moon (Independent)
- The Del McCoury Band The Streets of Baltimore (McCoury Music)
- Heidi Muller & Bob Webb Dulcimer Moon (Independent)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Old Buck Old Buck (Tin Halo Music)
Top Ten: November 18th – 24th
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Tony Joe White Hoodoo (Yep Roc)
- Debademba Souleymane (World Village)
- Robert Glasper Experiment Black Radio 2 (Universal)
- Juana Molina Wed 21 (Crammed Discs)
- John Wizards John Wizards (Planet Mu)
- Willis Earl Beal Nobody Knows (HXC)
Top Ten: November 11th – 17th
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Vijay Iyer & Mike Ladd Holding It Down: The Veterans’ Dreams Project (PI)
- Robert Glasper Experiment Black Radio 2 (Universal)
- Intended Immigration La Demoiselle Du Fonque (Wooden Hat)
- Juana Molina Wed 21 (Crammed Discs)
- Linda Thompson Won’t Be Long Now (Pettifer Sounds)
- Neko Case The Worse Things Get, The Harder I Fight (Anti)
- various Divided & United: The Songs of the Civil War (ATO)
Top Ten: November 4th – 10th
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Eric Bibb Jericho Road (Stony Plain)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Robert Glasper Experiment Black Radio 2 (Universal)
- Intended Immigration La Demoiselle Du Fonque (Wooden Hat)
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- Tony Joe White Hoodoo (Yep Roc)
- Lindi Ortega Tin Star (Last Gang)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama I’ll Find a Way (Sony Masterworks)
- Machinedrum Vapor City (Ninja Tune)
Top Ten: October 28th – November 3rd:
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Roberto Fonseca Yo (Concord Jazz)
- Linda Thompson Won’t Be Long Now (Pettifer Sounds)
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama I’ll Find a Way (Sony Masterworks)
- Paul Burch Fevers (Plowboy)
- Steep Canyon Rangers Tell The Ones I Love (Rounder)
- Willie Nelson To All The Girls… (Legacy Recordings)
- Pete Anderson Birds Above Guitarland (Little Dog)
- Federico Aubele 5 (13 Records)
Top Ten: October 21st – 27th:
- Da Lata Fabiola (Agogo)
- Robert Glasper Experiment Black Radio 2 (Universal)
- various The South Side Of Soul Street – The Minaret Soul Singles 1967-1976 (Ominvore)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Elvis Costello And The Roots Wise Up Ghost & Other Songs (BlueNote)
- Poets Of Rhythm The Anthology 1992-2003 (Daptone)
- Sarah Jarosz Build Me Up From Bones (Sugar Hill)
Top Ten: October 14th – 20th
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Linda Thompson Won’t Be Long Now (Pettifer Sounds)
- Bahama Soul Club The Cuban Tapes (Buyú)
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- Allen Toussaint Songbook [Standard] (Rounder)
- The Pedrito Martinez Group The Pedrito Martinez Group Motema
- Cyril Neville Magic Honey (Ruf)
- Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers (Little Sur)
- Robbie Fulks Gone Away Backward (Bloodshot)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
Top Ten: October 7th – 13th
- Faba Loba Senegalesa (Art Hurts)
- Roberto Fonseca Yo (Concord Jazz)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama I’ll Find a Way (Sony Masterworks)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Donna Ulisse Showin’ My Roots (Hadley Music Group)
- Anoushka Shankar Traces Of You (Deutsche Grammophon)
- various Shapes:Circles (Tru Thoughts)
- Sarah Jarosz Build Me Up From Bones (Sugar Hill)
- The Pedrito Martinez Group The Pedrito Martinez Group (Motema)
- The Cactus Channel Wooden Boy (Orchard)
Top Ten: September 30th – October 6th
- Linda Thompson Won’t Be Long Now (Pettifer Sounds)
- The Blind Boys of Alabama I’ll Find a Way (Sony Masterworks)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Faba Loba Senegalesa (Art Hurts)
- Sarah Jarosz Build Me Up From Bones (Sugar Hill)
- Various Shapes:Circles (Tru Thoughts)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Lindi Ortega Tin Star (Last Gang)
- Robbie Fulks Gone Away Backward (Bloodshot)
- The Pedrito Martinez Group The Pedrito Martinez Group (Motema)
Top Ten: September 23rd-29th
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Linda Thompson Won’t Be Long Now (Pettifer Sounds)
- Rokia Traoré Beautiful Africa (Nonesuch)
- Faba Loba Senegalesa (Art Hurts)
- Robbie Fulks Gone Away Backward (Bloodshot)
- Neko Case The Worse Things Get, The Harder I Fight… (Anti)
- Tim O’Brien & Darrell Scott Memories And Moments (Full Skies)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Steep Canyon Rangers Tell The Ones I Love (Rounder)
- Nightmares On Wax Feelin’ Good (Warp)
Top Ten: September 16th – 22nd:
- Elvis Costello And The Roots Wise Up Ghost & Other Songs (BlueNote)
- Ry Cooder & Corridos Famosos Live At The Great American Music Hall (Nonesuch)
- Lala Njava Malagasy Blues Song (Riverboat/World Music Network)
- Gregory Porter Liquid Spirit (Universal)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Steep Canyon Rangers Tell The Ones I Love (Rounder)
- Roberto Fonseca Yo (Concord Jazz)
- Old Buck Old Buck (Tin Halo Music)
- The Cactus Channel Wooden Boy (Orchard)
- Robbie Fulks Gone Away Backward (Bloodshot)
Top Ten: September 9th – 15th:
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Steep Canyon Rangers Tell The Ones I Love (Rounder)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Kentyah Presents: M1, Brian Jackson & The New Midnight Band Evolutionary Minded – Furthering The Legacy of Gil Scott-Heron (Motéma)
- North Mississippi Allstars World Boogie Is Coming (Songs Of The South)
- Bosq of Whiskey Barons Bosq y Orquesta de Madera (Ubiquity)
- Moderat II Monkeytown
- Mulatu Astatke Sketches of Ethiopia (Jazz Village)
- Guy Clark My Favorite Picture Of You (Dualtone)
- KT Tunstall Invisible Empire // Crescent Moon (BlueNote)
Top Ten: August 26th – September 1st
- Jimmy Cliff The KCRW Session (Universal)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Gregory Alan Isakov The Weatherman (Suitcase Town)
- Lala Njava Malagasy Blues Song (Riverboat/World Music Network)
- Neko Case The Worse Things Get, The Harder I Fight… (Anti)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Dumpstaphunk Dirty Word (Louisiana Red Hot)
- Robin McKelle & The Flytones Soul Flower (Sony)
- Tim O’Brien & Darrell Scott Memories And Moments (Full Skies)
- Laura Marling Once I Was An Eagle (Ribbon)
Top Ten: August 19th-25th:
- Robin McKelle & The Flytones Soul Flower (Sony)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- The Garifuna Collective Ayó (Stonetree/Cumbancha)
- various Putumayo Presents: Women Of Brazil (Putumayo World Music)
- Gal Costa Recanto (Wrasse/Universal)
- Martha Redbone Roots Project The Garden Of Love – Songs Of William Blake (Blackfeet)
- Jimmy Cliff The KCRW Session (Universal)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Derrick Hodge Live Today (BlueNote)
- Dumpstaphunk Dirty Word (Louisiana Red Hot)
Top Ten: August 12th -18th
- various Putumayo Presents: Women Of Brazil (Putumayo)
- Lala Njava Malagasy Blues Song (Riverboat/World Music Network)
- Robbie Fulks Gone Away Backward (Bloodshot)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- various Reggae Gold 2013 (VP)
- The Carper Family Old-Fashioned Gal (independent)
- Boards Of Canada Tomorrow’s Harvest (Warp)
- Jimmy Cliff The KCRW Session (Universal)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax/Concord)
- Femi Kuti No Place For My Dream (Knitting Factory)
Top Ten: August 5th-11th
- Alice Gerrard Bittersweet (Spruce & Maple)
- Derrick Hodge Live Today (Bluenote)
- Pokey LaFarge Pokey LaFarge (Third Man)
- Tedeschi Trucks Band Made Up Mind (Masterworks)
- The Deadly Gentlemen Roll Me, Tumble Me (Rounder)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Chico Trujillo Gran Pecador (Barbes)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Lala Njava Malagasy Blues Song (Riverboat/World Music Network)
- Martha Redbone Roots Project The Garden Of Love – Songs Of William Blake (Blackfeet)
Top Ten: July 29th – August 4th
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Martha Redbone Roots Project The Garden Of Love – Songs Of William Blake (Blackfeet)
- Mandolin Orange This Side Of Jordan (Yep Roc)
- Gregory Alan Isakov The Weatherman (Suitcase Town)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax/Concord)
- Slaid Cleaves Still Fighting The War (Music Road)
- Alice Gerrard Bittersweet (Spruce & Maple)
- The Paul McKenna Band Elements (Compass)
- Cécile McLorin Salvant WomanChild (Mack Avenue)
Top Ten: July 22nd – 28th
- various The Rough Guide To Country Blues Pioneers (World Music Network)
- Chico Trujillo Gran Pecador (Barbes)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Jim Faddis In My Dreams (independent)
- Rebecca Frazier When We Fall (Compass)
- Gaudi In Between Times (Six Degrees)
- various Verve Remixed: The First Ladies (Universal)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Guy Clark My Favorite Picture Of You (Dualtone)
- Laura Veirs Warp & Weft (Raven Marching Band)
Top Ten: July 15th – 21st
- Jimmy Cliff The KCRW Session (Universal)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Robin McKelle & The Flytones Soul Flower (Sony)
- various Verve Remixed: The First Ladies (Universal)
- Laura Marling Once I Was An Eagle (Ribbon)
- The Garifuna Collective Ayó (Stonetree/Cumbancha)
- The Carper Family Old-Fashioned Gal (independent)
- Guy Clark My Favorite Picture Of You (Dualtone)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax/Concord)
Top Ten: July 8th – 14th
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Alice Russell To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- various Verve Remixed: The First Ladies (Universal)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Honey Island Swamp Band Cane Sugar (Louisiana Red Hot)
- Jimmy Cliff The KCRW Session (Universal)
- Cécile McLorin Salvant WomanChild (Mack Avenue)
- various The Ladies at Joe Gibbs (VP)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax/Concord)
- Aceyalone Leanin’ On Slick (Decon)
Top Ten: June 24th – 30th
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax/Concord)
- Bill Frisell Big Sur (Okeh)
- Go Jane Go Go Jane Go (Dead Reckoning)
- Robin McKelle & The Flytones Soul Flower (Sony)
- Oliver Lake Big Band Wheels (Passin’ Thru)
- Vieux Farka Touré Mon Pays (Six Degrees)
- Alice Russell To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- Cécile McLorin Salvant WomanChild (Mack Avenue)
Top Ten: June 17th – 23rd
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Mavis Staples One True Vine (Warner)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax/Concord)
- Alice Russell To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- Tom Jones Spirit In The Room (Rounder)
- Lissa Schneckenburger Covers (independent)
- Dayna Kurtz Secret Canon Vol. 2 (M.C.)
- Robin McKelle & The Flytones Soul Flower (Sony)
- The Celtic Fiddle Festival Live In Brittany- 20th Anniversary Concert (Loftus)
- Pokey LaFarge Pokey LaFarge (Third Man)
Top Ten: June 10th – 16th
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax/Concord)
- Valerie June Pushin’ Against A Stone (Concord)
- Vieux Farka Touré Mon Pays (Six Degrees)
- Alice Russell To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- Alice Smith She (Rainwater )
- Patty Griffin American Kid (New West)
- Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen On The Edge (Compass)
- various Kenya Special: Selected East African Recordings From The 1970s & ’80s (Believe Digital)
- Dayna Kurtz Secret Canon Vol. 2 (M.C.)
- Femi Kuti No Place For My Dream (Knitting Factory)
Top Ten: June 3rd – 9th
- Shannon McNally Small Town Talk (Sacred Sumac)
- Mexican Dubwiser Revolution Radio (Koolarrow)
- Claire Lynch Dear Sister (Compass)
- Alice Smith She (Rainwater)
- Bombino Nomad (Nonesuch)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Concord)
- Patty Griffin American Kid (New West)
- Jason Isbell Southeastern (Independent)
- Alice Russell To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- Lissa Schneckenburger Covers (Independent)
Top Ten: May 27th – June 2nd
- Shannon McNally Small Town Talk (Sacred Sumac)
- David Francey So Say We All (Red House)
- various The Ladies at Joe Gibbs (VP)
- Jaimeo Brown Transcendence (Motema)
- Ruth Moody These Wilder Things (Red House)
- Tom Jones Spirit In The Room (Rounder)
- Bobby McFerrin Spirityouall (Sony)
- The Carper Family Old-Fashioned Gal (independent)
- Booker T. Jones Sound The Alarm (Stax-Concord)
- Rita Hosking Little Boat (independent)
Top Ten: May 20th – 26th
- Alice Russel To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- Vieux Farka Touré Mon Pays (Six Degrees)
- Emily Herring Your Mistake (Independent)
- Jaimeo Brown Transcendence (Motema)
- Yasmine Hamdan Ya Nass (Kwaidan)
- Etran Finatawa The Sahara Sessions (World Music Network)
- Bonobo The North Borders (Ninja Tune)
- Various The Ladies at Joe Gibbs (VP)
- Soweto Kinch The Legend Of Mike Smith (Independent)
- Peter Rowan The Old School (Compass)
Top Ten: May 13th – 19th
- Bassekou Kouyaté & Ngoni Ba Jama Ko (Outhere)
- Yasmine Hamdan Ya Nass (Kwaidan)
- Bonobo The North Borders (Ninja Tune)
- Redtenbacher’s Funkestra The Cooker (Wooden Hat)
- Shannon McNally Small Town Talk (Sacred Sumac)
- David Francey So Say We All (Red House)
- Joyce Tudo (Far Out)
- Letherette Letherette (Ninja Tune)
- The Milk Carton Kids The Ash & Clay (Anti)
- Cécile McLorin Salvant WomanChild (Mack Avenue)
Top Ten: May 6th – 12th
- Alice Russell To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- The Greyboy Allstars Inland Emperor (Knowledge Room)
- Bobby McFerrin Spirityouall (Sony)
- Shannon McNally Small Town Talk (Sacred Sumac)
- John Reischman Walk Along John (Corvus)
- Jerry Miller New Road Under My Wheels (Signature Sounds)
- Charles Bradley Victim of Love (Daptone)
- Iron & Wine Ghost On Ghost (4AD)
- Rebekah Pulley & The Reluctant Prophets Tralala (Independent)
- Hamilton de Holanda & Andre Mehmari Gismonti Pascoa- The Music Of Egberto & Hermetol (Adventure)
Top Ten: April 29th – May 5th
- Alice Russell To Dust (Tru Thoughts)
- Bonobo The North Borders (Ninja Tune)
- Shannon McNally Small Town Talk (Sacred Sumac)
- David Francey So Say We All (Red House)
- Patty Griffin American Kid (New West)
- Various Way To Blue – The Songs Of Nick Drake (StorySound)
- Holly Williams The Highway (Georgian)
- The Milk Carton Kids The Ash & Clay (Anti)
- Tom Jones Spirit In The Room (Rounder)
- Amy Speace How To Sleep In A Stormy Boat (Wind Bone)
Top Ten Releases April 22nd – 28th:
- Various Turntables On Las Ramblas Compiled by Nickodemus (Wonderwheel)
- Shannon McNally Small Town Talk (Sacred Sumac)
- Carla Bruni Little French Songs (Universal)
- Ruth Moody These Wilder Things (Red House)
- Joyce Tudo (Far Out)
- David Francey So Say We All (Red House)
- Patty Griffin American Kid (New West)
- Luke Winslow-King The Coming Tide (Bloodshot)
- Bonobo The North Borders (Ninja Tune)
- Redtenbacher’s Funkestra The Cooker (Wooden Hat)
Top Ten Releases April 15th – 21st:
- Simone Dinnerstein & Tift Merritt Night (Sony Classical)
- Shuggie Otis Inspiration Information + Wings Of Love (Epic)
- Bassekou Kouyaté & Ngoni Ba Jama Ko (Outhere)
- Terri Lyne Carrington Money Jungle: Provocative In Blue (Concord Jazz)
- Shannon McNally Small Town Talk (Sacred Sumac)
- Patty Griffin American Kid (New West)
- Letherette Letherette (Ninja Tune)
- Jerry Miller New Road Under My Wheels (Signature Sounds)
- Redtenbacher’s Funkestra The Cooker (Wooden Hat)
- The Greyboy Allstars Inland Emperor (Knowledge Room)
Top Ten Releases: April 8th – 14th
- John Reischman Walk Along John (Corvus)
- Sutton, Holt & Coleman Ready For The Times (High Windy)
- Petra Haden Petra Goes To The Movies (Anti)
- Bombino Nomad (Nonesuch)
- Steve Earle & The Dukes (& Duchesses) The Low Highway (New West)
- The Gibson Brothers They Called It Music (Compass)
- Niyaz Sumud Acoustic EP (Six Degrees)
- The Kings Of Mongrel Folk Bitter Truth (independent)
- Bassekou Kouyaté & Ngoni Ba Jama Ko (Outhere)
- April Verch Bright Like Gold (Slab Town)
Top Ten Releases April 1st – 7th
- Bassekou Kouyaté & Ngoni Ba Jama Ko (Outhere)
- Otis Taylor My World Is Gone (Telarc)
- Lauren Sheehan The Light Still Burns (Wilson River)
- Ben Harper with Charlie Musselwhite Get Up! (Stax)
- Various Shapes 12:01 Compiled by Robert Luis (Tru Thoughts)
- Bonobo The North Borders (Ninja Tune)
- The Black Lillies Runaway Freeway Blues (Independent)
- Charles Bradley Victim of Love (Daptone)
- Richard Thompson Electric (New West)
- Various Unsung Hero: A Tribute To The Music Of Ron Davies (Warner – Chappell)
Top Ten Releases: March 25th – 31st
- various Shapes 12:01 Compiled by Robert Luis (Tru Thoughts)
- The Milk Carton Kids The Ash & Clay (Anti)
- Billy Bragg Tooth & Nail (Cooking Vinyl)
- Petra Haden Petra Goes To The Movies (Anti)
- Pharis & Jason Romero Long Gone Out West Blues (Lula)
- Terri Lyne Carrington Money Jungle: Provocative In Blue (Concord Jazz)
- various The Music Is You: A Tribute to John Denver (ATO)
- Bruce Molsky If It Ain’t Here When I Get Back (Independent)
- NEXT Collective Cover Art (Concord Jazz)
- Alan Bibey & Wayne Benson The Mandolin Chronicles (Pinecastle)
Top Ten Releases: March 18th – 24th
- Charles Bradley Victim of Love (Daptone/VME)
- Pedrito Martínez Rumba de la Isla (Calle 54)
- Dandy Teru Adventures (Ubiquity)
- Ana Moura Desfado (Universal)
- The Milk Carton Kids The Ash & Clay (Anti)
- Bruce Molsky If It Ain’t Here When I Get Back (Independent)
- Pharis & Jason Romero Long Gone Out West Blues (Lula)
- Otis Taylor My World Is Gone (Telarc)
- Nilson Matta Nilson Matta’s Black Orpheus (Motema)
- BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet From Bamako to Carencro (Compass)
Top Ten Releases: March 11-17th
- Dandy Teru Adventures (Ubiquity)
- The James Hunter Six Minute By Minute (Fantasy)
- Various artists The Rough Guide to Acoustic Africa (World Music Network)
- Anaïs Mitchell & Jefferson Hamer Child Ballads (Wilderland)
- Kaleidoscope Jukebox Infinite Reflection (Rhythm & Culture)
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell Old Yellow Moon (Warner)
- Pharis & Jason Romero Long Gone Out West Blues (Lula)
- The Steeldrivers Hammer Down (Rounder)
- BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet From Bamako to Carencro (Compass)
- Nilson Matta Nilson Matta’s Black Orpheus (Motema)
Top Ten Releases: March 4-10th
- Various Shapes 12:01 Compiled by Robert Lui (Tru Thoughts)
- Terri Lyne Carrington Money Jungle: Provocative In Blue (Concord Jazz)
- Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell Old Yellow Moon (Warner)
- Various Soul Spectrum Records Volume One (Soul Spectrum / Jazzman)
- Bomba Estéreo Elegancia Tropical (Zebralution)
- The James Hunter Six Minute By Minute (Fantasy)
- The Milk Carton Kids The Ash & Clay (Anti)
- Pharis & Jason Romero Long Gone Out West Blues (Lula)
- Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison Cheater’s Game (Premium)
- Jesse Dee On My Mind /In My Heart (Alligator)
Top Ten Releases: February 18-24th
- Pharis & Jason Romero Long Gone Out West Blues (Lula)
- various Soul Spectrum Records Volume One (Soul Spectrum / Jazzman)
- The James Hunter Six Minute By Minute (Fantasy)
- Bomba Estéreo Elegancia Tropical (Zebralution)
- Jesse Dee On My Mind / In My Heart (Alligator)
- Hiatus Kaiyote Tawk Tomahawk (Independent)
- various The Rough Guide to African Disco (World Music Network)
- DJ Sun One Hundred (Independent)
- Etana Better Tomorrow (VP)
- Maloko Soul on Fire (World Music Network)
