Single Review: 'Age of Reason' - Uncle Lucius (+LISTEN)

Uncle Lucius are a band who could never be pigeonholed into just one genre. This much is evident on 'Age of Reason', the latest track to be released to UK radio from their most recent album, The Light.

Americana and country combine with blues on a track which has lyrics that may never be more relevant as they are at this present time'as a call to let go of limitations' - limitations such as religion, tradition and tribe - and instead calls for unity. It is a much deeper offering than other tracks on the air at present and, in addition to making you think, the song is also a real toe-tapper.
. When discussing the song, the band's singer Kevin Galloway called the track,

About Uncle Lucius

Having shared stages with Merle Haggard, Zac Brown Band, Shooter Jennings, Ryan Bingham and Hayes Carll, Uncle Lucius will already be familiar to many who consider themselves fans of country, Americana and southern rock.

For a decade, the band built its fan base the hard way, through relentless touring and restless searching. When the time came to exit the Nashville ‘machine’ and find a new way to create and release the music they needed to make, they called on their die-hard fans for help. Hundreds of believers pledged tens of thousands of hard-earned dollars. Both humbled and exhilarated, the band hit the studio, eager to justify their fans’ love with the labor of their hearts and souls.

The resulting fourth LP, The Light, is the statement their fans have waited for, with its songs of seeking and questioning, of reaching out to others, of excavating the hidden strength within. After years spent spreading their message across Texas, here at last is the vehicle that can take them to the national - and international - level.

Much about Uncle Lucius sets them apart. Five songwriters combining forces is neither common nor easy, but what each individual loses in pride the band more than gains in power. The song itself matters more than who wrote it, more than the genre to which it belongs. “It’s not about trying to write a certain kind of song,” says Galloway, “it’s about harvesting whatever song comes.”

Despite that organic method, The Light’s 12 songs share themes of travel, movement, and quests without destinations. The album places the band in unfamiliar sonic territory, and much credit belongs to producer George Reiff (Shinyribs, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Band of Heathens) for testing their limits. Every member influences every other, and that combined filter comes close to defining what Uncle Lucius is. “We’re a five-headed beast,” Galloway insists, “and our songs speak for us. Whether we succeed depends on how well they resonate in the world.”

For further information on the band, follow them on Twitter, like them on Facebook and visit their official site.

Shovels & Rope Announce New Album - LISTEN to the First Track

Critically acclaimed husband & wife duo Shovels & Rope will release their anticipated new album Little Seeds on their new label New West Records on 7th October. Known for their honest, raw and highly distinctive sound, Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent (aka Shovels & Rope) have made their most personal and powerful album yet.

As songwriters, Hearst and Trent have earned a reputation as gifted storytellers. The main distinction between their prior work and Little Seeds, is that the stories here are true and inspired by their own experiences and observations.

Little Seeds reflects a pivotal and tumultuous time in their lives, and in our society. With song titles such as 'Botched Execution', 'Mourning Song', 'The Last Hawk' and subject matters ranging from Alzheimer’s disease ('Invisible Man') to over-medicating children ('Johnny Come Outside') to racial unity (‘BWYR'), one might think Little Seeds is a hopeless and depressing work, which would be highly inaccurate. Shovels & Rope’s penchant for writing literate, Southern Gothic infused songs that exude a dark humor, deep sentiment and the celebration of the genuine, quirky and beautiful things in life has never shined brighter than it does on Little Seeds.

Like most of their previous material, Little Seeds was recorded in the couple’s Charleston, SC home studio, and produced by Trent. Hearst and Trent wrote all the songs and played every instrument. Little Seeds is the follow up to their acclaimed 2014 release Swimmin’ Time, which debuted in the Top 20 on the Billboard 200, #5 on the rock chart and #6 on the independent chart. The duo, who were nominated in four categories at the Americana Music Awards, winning ‘Song of the Year’ (‘Birmingham’) and ‘Emerging Artist of the Year’, were the subject of a documentary ‘The Ballad of Shovels & Rope’, which chronicles the band’s humble beginnings through the release of O’ Be Joyful and premiered at the Nashville Film Festival. Featuring covers of Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Johnny 99’ and Tom Waits’ ‘Bad As Me’, Shovels & Rope released a single through Jack White’s Third Man Records in 2013.

For more information on Shovels & Rope, follow them on Twitter, like them on Facebook and visit their official site. LISTEN to 'I Know', the first track from Little Seeds below.

Single of the Week: 'Battle Road' - Kelly Prescott

If you like current American chart toppers Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert, then we think you'll love Canadian Kelly Prescott.

Her latest single, 'Battle Road' is a painfully honest track about how love isn't always easy. Lyrics such as 'It's good, so good/Then it all just comes undone' and 'Who are you tonight/Fight for love or love to fight' highlight the fragility of a relationship with the eponymous 'battle road' being a tension and conflict filled path that love can take you down. The song does not romanticize the notion of love, nor does it shoot it down - it sits somewhere in between, being perfectly honest that love can sometimes just be hard.

Well-written with powerful vocals, you can listen to this gritty and moving track below.

About Kelly Prescott

Kelly Prescott hails from two musically renowned family lines, spanning three generations from Northern Ontario, Nova Scotia and the Ottawa Valley. She has naturally inherited the foundation to follow her musical heart, drawing inspiration from her great Canadian roots. Imbued with experiences gleaned from growing up in an award-winning studio, she has hit the ground running in pursuit of her own musical expression.

Kelly is a from-the-cradle country singer, influenced by the likes of Emmylou Harris, Roger Miller and Ryan Adams. When her voice is blended with steel guitars and fiddles, country music lovers from way-back-when will hear a kindred soul. When she spins the dial forward a few decades, it’s clear she’s part of a new generation of artists who are making new sounds and big waves.
Born into a family of musical enthusiasts and entertainers, Kelly’s grandpa started a family band that entertained TV audiences for 17 years; there were few doubts about the direction her life might take. Her path began with a country-folk record with her brother Kaylen Prescott, the rollicking Lakeside Sessions (2009). Songs like ‘Take That’ and ‘Carrying Coal’ quickly established Kelly as one of the finest young interpreters of country music and a powerful vocalist.

This was followed by a critically acclaimed tour playing the role of Emmylou Harris in the theatrical production, Grievous Angel: The Legend of Gram Parsons. Kelly then recorded a well-received solo roots/blues album I Leave You Dreaming (2011). With a love for harmonies, her roots led her to form The Claytones, who produced two records, Lake in the Night (2012), and Reserva (2013), catching the attention of Bob Harris for his BBC Radio 2 show.

With this new EP, Hillbilly Jewels, Kelly takes the next step in her craft, with songs that speak to a new generation of lovers of country music; plenty of energy, deep passion, powerful vocals, and honest storytelling about real life today.

To keep up-to-date with Kelly, follow her on Twitter, like her on Facebook or visit her site.

Lineup Released for New London Based Music Festival, Nashville Meets London

London-based company, Canary Wharf Group has announced the lineup for the inaugural Nashville Meets London music festival, scheduled for August 13-14 in Canada Square Park.  The lineup for the 2-day event will showcase established artists and exciting new talent, and includes four acts representing the United States and six acts representing the United Kingdom.  From the United States are American Young, Logan Brill, Ty Herndon, and Logan Mize, and representing the United Kingdom are Yola Carter, Megan O’Neill, Pauper Kings, Hannah Rose Platt, Honey Ryder, and William the Conqueror. The event is free and open to the public.

Performances will begin at 2 p.m. each day in Canada Square Park, located in the heart of Canary Wharf and surrounded by award-winning gardens and over 300 shops, bars and restaurants.  Canary Wharf is located in the former London Docklands. For the past ten years, Canary Wharf has hosted the Canary Wharf Jazz Festival, which is largest free jazz festival in the UK, and has a long history of promoting arts and culture throughout its estate.

Nashville Meets London is co-produced by Canary Wharf Arts + Events, Peter Conway Management and Nashville-based agency, The AristoMedia Group.  Baylen Leonard, BBC Radio 2 Country DJ, is the artistic program consultant.

Holloway Road Surprise Fans With Set at Nashville Nights + Announce New Single

Last Friday (7th June) the crowd at the Nashville Nights club event in London were told a 'secret act' would be performing during the evening, and after a few hours of DJ Baylen Leonard playing a great mix of classics and chart hits, UK country duo Holloway Road took to the stage at 11:30pm for their second gig of the night, having just driven across town from a support slot for Jess & The Bandits.

With a stripped-back five piece setup led by acoustic guitar, the band opened with 'Truck' and played a half-hour set including songs from both their EPs and a cover of 'Ring of Fire'. The audience response was fantastic, with fans taking to Twitter & Instagram to post pictures and videos of the impromptu performance. As the lively set drew to a close, the rest of the band walked off leaving just Jack & Rob onstage, who went on to announce that the song they were finishing the set with would also be their next single - 'Good Thing Gone Bad'. Taken from the latest EP Roots, the song is the band's first "slow jam" on a record and shows a very different side to Holloway Road.

The guys spent the rest of the night meeting and taking selfies with fans and friends, and joining the dancefloor for the remainder of Baylen Leonard's DJ set.

Holloway Road play Buckle & Boots festival in Stockport on Friday 24th June. For more information on the band, check out www.hollowayroadmusic.com. The single 'Good Thing Gone Bad', including a new version & video, will be out in July.

The next Nashville Nights - "..bringing country music fans together to party to the music they love" -  takes place on Friday 5th August at Under The Bridge, London. For details and tickets, visit www.nashvillenights.uk.

ABOUT HOLLOWAY ROAD

Holloway Road are Jack Cooper and Robert Gulston, both originating from sunny Southend-On-Sea. But these aren't your ordinary Essex Boys; they're creating 'free big in your face' country-pop music. Jack and Robert, being in their mid-twenties now, have had their fair share of experience writing and playing around the world. After attending the same school and working on musical projects together in the years since, Jack and Robert's ability to write and produce stems from the idea of being able to write about being real and having a good time. Their influences include Florida Georgia Line, Kacey Musgraves, The Eagles, Mumford and Sons, and drinkin' a beer!


Along with both their self-released EPs entering the Top 10 UK iTunes Country charts, the duo have spent time in Nashville, been invited to play the Martin Guitar stage at the CMA Festival, toured with #1 hit writers John & Jacob, and performed at Country to Country Festival (C2C) at the O2 Arena in London two years in a row. And they're just getting started - with a string of UK tour dates and festival appearances on the way, Holloway Road are well on their way to imprinting their own footprint in the country community.

The Cadillac Three Announce New Album 'Bury Me in My Boots'

Nashville natives The Cadillac Three have revealed their long-awaited album Bury Me in My Boots, scheduled for release on August 5th via Big Machine Records, along with a brand new headlining tour of the UK this Autumn.

The trio have been teasing the full-length project with the staggered release of new tracks including ‘Graffiti’, ‘Soundtrack To A Six Pack’ and the new single ‘Drunk Like You’.  In time-honoured tradition the album showcases their love of a hard-rockin’ good time and includes their 2015 hit single ‘White Lightning’.

Comprised of Jaren Johnston (lead vocals), Neil Mason (percussion) and Kelby Ray (lap steel), The Cadillac Three are well-known for their electric intensity and songwriting proclivity. Pals since high school, the bandmates’ musical fusion has found a ready home in the UK, where they’ve built a loyal following with multiple sold-out headline dates.

They were named as ‘Best New Band’ in the 2014 Classic Rock Roll of Honour Awards and became the most played new band on Planet Rock in 2015. Rolling Stone claims, "Like Kings of Leon before them, they're poised for their first big break in the U.K. — where they've sold out every headlining show for nearly two years — before conquering their U.S. home turf.”

Jaren, whose songwriting sensibilities have garnered Academy of Country Music and Grammy-nominations, has penned chart-topping hits for Jake Owen (‘Beachin’), Frankie Ballard (‘Sunshine & Whiskey’) and Keith Urban featuring Eric Church (‘Raise ‘Em Up’), in addition to credits on the majority of TC3’s catalogue and singles for Tim McGraw and Dierks Bentley. Neil’s talents are also acknowledged on cuts for Rascal Flatts and Miranda Lambert, to name a few.

Ahead of the album’s release The Cadillac Three will be performing at Ramblin’ Man Fair in Kent on July 24th and then return to the UK for a headline tour later this year. Tickets are available now through Live Nation. The dates are as follows:

Don't Forget the Whiskey Tour - November 2016

5th – Manchester, O2 Ritz
6th - London, O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire
7th - Cambridge, Junction
9th - Glasgow, O2 ABC
10th - Birmingham, O2 Academy
11th - Bristol, O2 Academy
14th - Dublin. Whelans
15th - Berlin, Frannz Club
16th - Cologne, MTC
17th - Hamburg, Nochtspeicher
18th - Munich, Backstage Gall
20th - Amsterdam, Melkweg Sugarfactory
22nd - Madrid, Chango Club

Their raw and gritty sound has won them founds on both sides of the Atlantic with its rocking vivacity and universal appeal. Chicago Sun-Times explains it thus, “…the majority of today’s so called country rockers are simply trying to emulate what The Cadillac Three has been from their very beginning.” 

You can pre-order an exclusive UK only vinyl copy of the album here.

Single of the Week: '4th July' - Daniel Pearson

With July around the corner, it's fitting that Daniel Pearson today releases his infectious new single, '4th July'.

The track is about a love gone bad. The hook is simple - I told a lie on the 4th of July, I said you were the only one - but undeniably catchy as it warns the listener about the destruction nature of deceit and betrayal in a relationship. Yet rather than three minutes of melancholy, the song is quite the opposite. A toe-tapping beat, a raucous harmonica and a simply fantastic dynamic between the charming Pearson and his female back-up singer create a lively, fresh track that is absolutely perfect for the upcoming summer months. The arrangement is just as wonderful as the story that Pearson tells us.

Don't wait until the 4th of July to download this track. Have a listen below and be sure to go and get the track to support this brilliant British talent.




ABOUT DANIEL PEARSON

Americana singer-songwriter Daniel Pearson will release his new single 4th July on June 17th. The immediately infectious track is hot on the heels of his acclaimed 2015 Alone, Together album.

Daniel has released three albums to widespread critical acclaim around the world. Writers for Uncut Magazine, R2 Magazine, The Daily Mirror, Drowned In Sound, No Depression, Americana UK, PopMatters, Baeble Music & many more have been quick to praise timeless songwriting that fuses poetic lyrics to classic country & rock dynamics. His songs have been aired by influential DJs on BBC Radio 2, BBC 6Music, BBC Introducing, KROQ, Lightning 100, Amazing Radio, Triple J, Double J & more. TV has also made use of his emotive vocals & melodies, with his songs soundtracking hit shows in the UK. With albums praised for their lyrical skill & willingness to incorporate garage rock, blues, folk and gospel influences into his core country sound, '4th July' offers a more direct example of Pearson’s ability to craft nagging pop melodies within a story of betrayal & independence between two lovers.

In addition to winning over media tastemakers, Daniel has also been a word-of-mouth success story online with thousands of fans regularly sharing his songs on Twitter, YouTube, Soundcloud & Spotify. This loyal fanbase has powered him to 20,000 iTunes downloads, over 300,000 streams & successful solo tours of the USA & UK.

4th July is available to download from today. To keep up to date on Daniel, follow him on Twitter, like him on Facebook and check out his site. 

NEEDTOBREATHE Unveil Video for New Single 'HAPPINESS' - WATCH

Grammy-nominated South Carolina quartet NEEDTOBREATHE have unveiled the video for ‘HAPPINESS’, the lead single from their upcoming album H A R D L O V E released on July 15th through Atlantic Records.

Directed by Noble Jones (Taylor Swift, OneRepublic, Lady Antebellum) ‘HAPPINESS’ sees the cast – including NEEDTOBREATHE – running through deserted streets of LA. Describing the video, frontman Bear Reinhart says, “’HAPPINESS’ was a lot of fun to make...who doesn't want to run around the streets of LA in the dead of night? It's also the first video we've ever gotten to show off our athletic skills. You're welcome America.  #Rio2016”

Co-produced by NEEDTOBREATHE and recorded at their very own Plantation Studios in Charleston, SC, H A R D L O V E follows 2014’s Rivers In The Wasteland, which became a global smash hit, debuting in the US Billboard Chart at No. 3, and topping both the Rock and Alternative album charts. It spawned two huge hit singles, gold-selling ‘Brother (Feat. Gavin DeGraw)’ and the Grammy-nominated ‘Multiplied’, both of which gained UK airplay (the former landing itself on the BBC Radio 2 playlist).

The new album has seen the band delving into the world of electronic effects and instrumentation. The result: a sublimely crafted and expansive sound that still reflects the larger-than-life intensity of NEEDTOBREATHE’s unforgettable live show.



H A R D L O V E is now available for pre-order, with all purchases accompanied by an instant grat download of ‘HAPPINESS’ as well as album tracks ‘MONEY & FAME’, ‘NO EXCUSES’, and the recently released ‘GREAT NIGHT’ which features fellow South Carolinians Shovels & Rope. Exclusive album pre-order bundles that also include limited-edition merchandise are available at the band’s official online store.

 Signed copies of H A R D L O V E will be available exclusively for UK fans from the day of release from Banquet Records, Kingston and through their website www.banquetrecords.com.

Ty Dillon Releases New Single 'When She Laughs' - LISTEN

Following the fantastic response to his single 'Gone' earlier this year, US country singer-songwriter Ty Dillon has released the follow-up 'When She Laughs' to country radio stations and media, with a focus on the UK & Europe. Taken from his debut album Sunsets & Pickups, the single shows a mellow side to the Texan artist  - a laid back love song with acoustic-led instrumentation, perfect for summer nights. You can listen to the track below.

Originally from San Antonio, Ty left his hometown in 2012 to pursue a degree in music business from Dallas Baptist University.  After beginning his career as a performer and songwriter, Ty made the decision to move to the hub of Americana and Texas music: the hill country of Texas - San Marcos, to establish his musical roots in a town of some of the best songwriters in Texas. He was regularly performing original tunes at the historically renowned Cheatham Street Warehouse, where Kent Finlay hosted Songwriters Circle every Wednesday night.  Like many "Cheatham Street greats”, Ty began performing with his band as often as possible at Cheatham, following in the footsteps of legends such as George Strait and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Following the release of a five-song solo EP in 2013 featuring some of Ty's very first original tunes, Ty assembled a band - known as The Wilde Fire - and the group began playing all across Texas while preparing a full length LP, which would become Sunsets & Pickups. 'When She Laughs' is the second single from that record, and follows the success of 'Gone' which found its way to country radio and press on both sides of the pond.

'When She Laughs' is available to download now as well as Ty's album, Sunsets & Pickups. For more information on Ty, follow him on Twitter and like him on Facebook.

Buckle & Boots: More Acts Announced + Stage Times Confirmed!

Two more artists have been announced for Buckle & Boots 2016!

Taking place at Whitebottom Farm at Etherow Park (nr. Manchester/Stockport) between 24-26 June, Buckle & Boots Festival is set to combine some of the brightest talents in country music from the US as well as the thriving UK scene, providing a truly unique outdoor festival experience for country fans far and wide. With a variety of food, drink and camping facilities on site, Buckle & Boots is the first country festival of its kind in the UK, creating a friendly, communal atmosphere that fans are sure to embrace.

The line-up already includes acts such as Raintown, Ward Thomas and US chart-topper Phil Vassar and with just under two weeks until the weekend, two more acts have announced. They are:

Two Ways Home (UK) are Isabella Mariee & Lewis Fowler - an alt-country songwriting duo with roots in London & Vienna. It was a desire to hone their skills as songwriters and learn from the best that led Isabella & Lewis to a career defining four-week pilgrimage to Nashville in 2013. Never

before had the advice and kindness of strangers meant so much, they experienced the true spirit and support of Nashville. Two Ways Home lived the Nashville circuit and were welcomed with open arms. This inspirational journey convinced them to pursue their ambitions and they are now actively gigging around the UK. Fresh from a tour in May and the release of their latest EP Better Days featuring the singles 'Just For Now' & 'Still in Love', Two Ways Home play the Buckle & Boots main stage at 12:30pm on Sunday 26th June.


Shantell Ogden (USA) is a singer-songwriter from Nashville, TN. Shantell's songs have received airplay on more than 800 country and Americana radio stations internationally, reaching Top 2 chart positions both in the U.S. and Europe. Her songs have also appeared on the TV series Hart of Dixie and in several feature films. As a performing and touring Americana artist, Shantell has been praised by Maverick Magazine, For the Country Record and other notable media. She's won honors for Songwriter of the Year and Americana Song of the Year ('Ghosts in the Field') in the 2015 IMEA Awards, and Americana Album of the Year for Better at Goodbye in the 2014 IMEA Awards. Shantell said: "I'm thrilled to be playing the festival along with so many great artists at the Buckle and Boots Country Festival in Manchester! I appreciate the festival staff and the fans for making such a great event possible." She is scheduled to perform on the Acoustic Stage at 1:30pm on Saturday 25th June.

Timings have also been confirmed and the weekend is, as follows:

FRIDAY
Site open - 1:00pm
Music area & bar open - 4:00pm
Main stage performances start - 7:00pm
Raintown headline - 11:00pm
DJ set (main stage) 12.15am - 2:00am
Curfew/closing - 2:00am

SATURDAY:
Site open - 11:00am
Main stage performances start - 12:30pm
Acoustic stage performances start - 12:00pm
BCMA Stage performances (on the main stage) - 1:15pm - 3.15pm
Ward Thomas headline - 11:00pm
DJ set (main stage) - 12.15am - 2:00am
Curfew/closing - 2:00am

SUNDAY:
Site open - 11:00am
Main stage performances start - 12:30pm
Acoustic stage performances start - 12:00pm
BCMA Stage performances (on the main stage) - 1:15pm - 3.15pm
Phil Vassar headline - 10:00pm
DJ set (main stage) - 11.15am - 1:00am
Curfew/closing - 1:00am

For the full line-up and tickets, head to www.buckleandboots.co.uk.

John Paul White to Release First Solo Album in Nearly a Decade - LISTEN TO THE FIRST SINGLE

Single Lock Records will release John Paul White’s solo album Beulah on 19th August. The first single from the album will be 'The Martyr'.

The highly anticipated release is White’s first solo work in nearly a decade. It was produced by Ben Tanner (Alabama Shakes) and White, and recorded in Muscle Shoals at the renowned FAME Studios and at White’s own Single Lock Studios, which he founded and runs with Ben Tanner and Will Trapp. Single Lock has released a number of notable artists including St. Paul And The Broken Bones, Penny & Sparrow’s Let A Lover Drown You, which White produced, Belle Adair, The Bear, Dylan LeBlanc and Donnie Fritts’ Oh My Goodness, which also marked White’s debut as a producer.

Beulah is a diverse collection of swampy southern rock, folk balladry and dark acoustic pop, songs that came unbidden to White, who wasn’t entirely welcoming of them at the time. “Honestly, I tried to avoid them, but then I realised the only way I was going to get rid of them was if I wrote them down. I got my phone out, and I’d sing these little bits of melody, then put it away and move on. Eventually I got to a place where it was a roar in my head, and that pissed me off. Then one day I told my wife, ‘I think I’m going to go write a song.’ She was as surprised as I was. I went and wrote probably eight songs in three days. It was like turning on a faucet.” The title refers to a longtime family nickname and a reference to William Blake’s “place deep in the collective spiritual unconscious.”

One half of the four time Grammy-winning duo The Civil Wars, White’s recent recording collaborations include work with Jason Isbell, Candi Staton, Rosanne Cash, Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell, among others.

Beulah is available now for pre-order and you can listen to 'The Martyr' below.

Steven Tyler Announces Debut Solo Album 'We're All Somebody From Somewhere'

Iconic songwriter and prolific singer Steven Tyler revealed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show recently that his highly anticipated debut solo album will be released July 15th worldwide on Dot Records, underneath the Big Machine Label Group umbrella. The album is available for pre-order now.

Revealing the cover art while chatting with Ellen, Tyler shared that he co-produced the 13-track album entitled We're All Somebody From Somewhere, alongside legendary musicians/producers T Bone Burnett and Dann Huff in addition to Marti Frederiksen and Jaren Johnston (The Cadillac Three). On June 24th, Tyler will release the album’s title track ‘We’re All Somebody From Somewhere’ across digital retail partners everywhere.

“I headed down to Nashville last spring to start working on this project, wrote some kick ass songs with some of Music City’s finest songwriters and now we get to share them with the world on July 15,” said Tyler. “Country music is the new Rock ‘n Roll. It’s not just about porches, dogs and kicking your boots up. It's a whole lot more. It's about being real. And nothing is more real than understanding We’re All Just Somebody From Somewhere.”


A longtime fan of the genre, Tyler’s "powerful and raw" (Rolling Stone Country) voice first hit the Country airwaves as 'Love Is Your Name' reached #1 on the Billboard Country Streaming Songs chart. He followed with the anthemic 'RED, WHITE & YOU,' which Taste of Country called 'an unapologetic slice of good-time commercial country, slickly produced and with a lyric aimed squarely at the work-hard, play-hard values of country’s core audience.'

American fans can experience live versions of the new tracks, in addition to signature hits throughout the limited-run, 19-city solo tour, ‘STEVEN TYLER’S OUT ON A LIMB’. Tickets are now on sale, bringing the dynamic frontman to a series of intimate venues for a once-in-a-lifetime evening with rock royalty. Backed by his Nashville-based band, Loving Mary, the GRAMMY® Award-winner gets up-close-and-personal like never before as he shares his real-life heartaches, trials and tribulations from his piano upbringing to worldwide fame and life with his band. In a time-traveling musical journey that spans over four decades, the industry institution does not hold back as he recounts in-depth stories of his life from his musical ancestors in Calabria, Italy all the way to Route 440 and Nashville's Country music.

Cited by Rolling Stone as as 'one of the greatest singers of all time,' Tyler and Aerosmith have sold more than 150 million records worldwide. He has won four Grammy Awards, six American Music Awards, four Billboard Music Awards and an Emmy Award. In addition to having nine #1 hits, 25 GOLD, 18 PLATINUM and 12 MULTI-PLATINUM album certifications, the band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2001. In 2013, Tyler was awarded with the Founder's Award at the ASCAP Pop Awards and was inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame.

In November 2015, Tyler founded his philanthropic initiative Janie's Fund in partnership with Youth Villages to bring hope and healing to girls who have suffered the trauma of abuse and neglect.

For more information, check out Steven's Twitter, Facebook and website.

EP REVIEW: 'This Time Around' - Kaity Rae

Out tomorrow (June 10th), Kaity Rae's second EP, This Time Around is a perfect release for the summer.

The young singer-songwriter is a tremendous talent and it really is an exciting time for the UK country scene to have artists of her caliber emerging. Kaity's four track EP is a very positive indication of where the scene is headed, as well as a very promising indication of where her own career is headed.

1. Before I Knew: This track is the perfect opener, as it serves as a perfect introduction to who Kaity Rae is. This song is catchy and country-pop at its finest and is about a cheating ex. Yet instead of wallowing in a sad song about heartbreak, the upbeat nature of the song allows for the much more positive message that you're a lot better off without people like that in your life. It's a nice note to start things off on.

2. This Time Around: This song is very addictive and there is something very satisfying about how the gentle guitar at the start grows in intensity over the course of the song. The same can be said about Kaity's vocals which start off soft and grow much more powerful over the three minutes. Combined with the steady drumbeat and a wonderfully written, hook-laden chorus, this song is perfect for the summer months.

3. Back In My Heart: A song about the confusing, overpowering and changing feelings that love can bring, especially at the end of a relationship, Kaity, again, puts an upbeat spin on a topic that many opt to go for a sadder tone on. There's also some really great guitar playing on this track, including a very nice solo around the middle mark which makes this one really stand out.

4. All That I Am: Saving the best till last, this song feels symbolic of the big future that awaits Kaity. All about taking chances in life to succeed, this track is a change of pace from the rest of EP. Stripped back, this song allows Kaity's voice to shine more than ever before and its result is a beautiful track that closes a fantastic EP as well as an indication that Kaity's time to fly high isn't too far off.

This Time Around is available from June 10th and is definitely worth checking out for lovers of country, pop and well-written songs or for those who simply want to be able to say 'I heard her first'. 


ABOUT KAITY RAE

Kaity Rae is a singer-songwriter from North London set to take the UK Country scene by storm in 2016 following a two week song writing trip to Nashville in April and winning a place in a song writing workshop courtesy of PRS at The Americana Music Association UK awards early 2016.

Spark was Kaity's debut EP, and was released on the 5th of November 2014. This has led to radio play on Amazing Radio, BBC Gloucestershire and more recently a live session and interview on BBC Introducing Three Counties. The EP has also gained attention from top UK Country acts, including The Shires' Ben Earle who took to twitter to say that he 'Loves' the fourth and final track 'It Is'.

Kaity gigs all over southern England and has supported the likes of Sasha Mcveigh and Sonia Leigh on their 'Mind the Gap Tour', US singer/songwriters Jeffrey Foucault, Angel Snow and Dayna Kurtz. She has also played in top London venues such as the 02 Islington, The Bedford and The Roundhouse for Roundhouse Rising.

Since the release of Spark, Kaity has been developing her sound whilst studying a song writing degree at The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance, and is now releasing her second EP, This Time Around on June 10th. The opening track, 'Before I Knew' is out as a single on 20th May. Produced by John Denzil Dines, recorded at Cream Room Sound Productions studio and released on Folkstock Records

For more information on Kaity, follow her on Twitter, like her on Facebook and check out her official site.

EP REVIEW: Fifth Floor EP - Fifth Floor

Nashville, Tennessee may be the spiritual home of country music but the genre has a global appeal. Take Fifth Floor. Moa and Matilda both hail from Sweden and met each other whilst at university in the UK. Now, two years later, the duo release their first EP, Fifth Floor.

You could be forgiven for thinking that the duo have known each other for a lot longer than just a couple of years. The duo have an electric chemistry that fizzes through the energetic, yet sadly short, EP. The release is, for the most part, is fast paced...I have a feeling that these two put on a very, very energetic live show (and if they'd like to bring that show up to Scotland, this reviewer would be very grateful!)

1. You're Not in The Picture Anymore: For those listening to this opener without having heard Fifth Floor before, I think this song is a great introduction to the duo. It's upbeat and well-written, with the chorus cleverly built around the title of the song, a phrase that we've all heard before - as an English student, I particularly love the chorus for this reason. There's also a satisfying level of sass on the track as the song says goodbye to an ex in a defiant fashion.

2. Drink It Away: This is their first single and the first song they released. For those who read my review of this song a few weeks back, I think it was pretty clear that I adore this song. If it wasn't clear then, then let me be clear now - I ADORE this song! It's about forgetting your troubles through, well...you can guess from the title. This song is another one of defiance, about not letting things in the past drag you down. It's feel good and will stick around in your head long after you've finished listening to it. Yet, saying all that, it's not my favorite track on the EP...

3. Where The Credits Roll: ...THIS is my favorite song on the EP. As big a fan as I am of the duo's energy in the other three tracks, I love the more stripped back feel of this one. This ballad allows Moa and Matilda's voices to shine. Heartbreaking, yet beautiful, this song is about whether to let your head, rather than your heart, rule whether or not to end a relationship that you know is no good. The story in this song is fantastic, as is the musical depth of this duo. Truly fantastic.

4. Ghost Town; A feisty track with a real kick. It's rockier than the others. This track takes the listener on a very visual experience with the opening lyrics: 'Tyre tracks in the dirt, from where they stopped from where they served', painting a very vivid scene for the listener of what this eponymous ghost town they're trapped in, looks like. It's just some brilliant songwriting and storytelling.

Again, this EP is short but it most definitely is sweet. It's available to download from today and I personally recommend that you make the small yet definitely worthy investment of going and downloading it right now.


ABOUT FIFTH FLOOR

Fifth Floor is a Swedish singer/songwriter duo with modern pop, rock and country influences. After meeting at university in London, Moa and Matilda began writing songs together and eventually made the decision to form a duo in the summer of 2014.

Moa is originally from Helsingborg in the South-West of Sweden, 20 minutes across the sea from Denmark. She grew up playing and listening to rock music and studied music through her upper secondary school years before moving to London in 2012. Matilda grew up on the South-East island of Öland, in small town Färjestaden (funnily enough located 20 minutes across the sea from mainland Sweden). After listening to mostly pop in her early years, she later discovered her passion for country music. Having written songs since age 11, Matilda made the decision to move to London and pursue music in 2012.

The two first met online via Twitter after a quick search for future music university classmates lead Matilda to Moa, who had her audition in London that very day. After bonding over their mutual love of pop/rock band McFly they soon became friends. During a procrastination-prone exam week, Matilda encouraged Moa to watch ABC's Nashville and the Helsingborg native was soon converted into a country music fan. One year later, Fifth Floor was formed.

For more information and to stay up to date with the duo, follow them on Twitter, like them on Facebook and check out their official site.

Zack Dyer Signs to Silverado Records!

NASHVILLE, TN: Silverado Records has announced a new audio series project to be titled the Silverado Signature Songwriter’s Series, featuring recorded tracks from Country music songwriters. The series pays homage to the immense and diverse songwriting culture prevalent in Nashville and Country music as a whole. The first featured songwriter on the series is Nashville based Zack Dyer.

Dyer, a Minnesota native, moved to Nashville in 2015 to pursue a full-time music career. Since moving to Tennessee, Dyer has spent time writing new songs, and performing at songwriters events across the state. Also in 2015, Dyer was invited to perform for an NRA Country event in Nashville, and has continued to build a name for himself with his authentic lyrics, and easy-going melodies.

“We’re so glad to have Zack on board for this new series and look forward to showcasing his great music,” said Silverado A&R Director Aaron Chesling. “Zack’s a very talented songwriter with the talent and mindset to take himself all the way in this business. To be there on the ground floor with him is an honor for our team,” he added.

On his selection for the Silverado Signature Songwriter’s Series, Dyer said “I’m so excited to be teaming up with Silverado. It’s been a minute and a half since I’ve released new music to the world, so I’m beyond thankful for the opportunity to get after it with these guys.”

The release date for the first release in the series will be announced soon, and the label intends to release several volumes per year. “This is a great way to connect music fans with the best songwriters, as well as Country music’s future stars” said Silverado Records CEO Scott Thomas. “Zack is the perfect talent to kick this off, and represents well the abundant talent out there in the songwriting community. We’re very excited to get this out there,” he added.

For more information on Zack Dyer & Silverado Records, please visit www.silveradorecords.com.