Jason Isbell is quickly becoming the next prolific singer/songwriter of this generation with the upcoming release Southeastern which will be hitting the record racks on June 11^th. Although this is considered his first solo release since 2007′s Sirens of the Ditch, Isbell has been cranking out work with his band The 400 Unit since 2009.  Isbell received my coveted “Album of The Year” award for the first Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit self-titled album and…

My column usually includes some heartfelt commentary about music ’cause I try and I try and I try and I try to keep readers connected to the latest happenings.  In the summer of 1965, I was six years old riding around in the car with my big sis driving when this song comes on the AM radio. A three note guitar riff starts one of the greatest songs ever recorded and forever grabbed my attention, as well as the music world.  Ladies and Gentlemen…

It’s always a little tough to write about non-essential subjects when devastating tragedy has come down on folks who happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time.  Be it shootings, weather, transportation, or trying to be invincible … people continue to die senselessly … some way too young.  It has touched close to home here in Akron, Ohio this month just as it has done more than likely in your town or region.  We will continue to get brushed back and knocked down, only to…

There will be a ton of talent heading to Cleveland from April 19^th to the 27^th participating in this year’s Tri-C JazzFest including Bill Frisell, Joe Lovano, Natalie Cole, and Michael Feinstein.   But this writer is looking forward to the opening night when two icons from New Orleans, Aaron Neville and Dr. John, will be sharing the stage for some swamp boogie rhythm and blues funk.  For Malcom John “Mac” Rebennack Jr., who is also known as the “Night Tripper”…

The Ohio thread continues in this edition of liner notes as Kim Richey, the sweetheart of Zanesville and Kettering, will be releasing a wonderful new album titled Thorn In My Heart on April 16^th.  I first heard about Kim from magazine publisher Wayne Green…