We were honestly all about the country music when Judi and I set off for a fortnight in Tennessee (which we may have mentioned once or twice?) Then about two days in, perhaps because country music was refreshingly everywhere, we realised the trip had become about food. We'd pull up to each new town and... Continue Reading →
This is Country Music. Is it?
At last I've found the song to surely convert my best mate to the cult of Country Music. I subtly stick it on in the background while she's over to discuss her imminent wedding. Yes! On cue, she notices the track and asks "who's this?". I try to sound casual; "Sam Hunt, a country singer" I say. "This... Continue Reading →
Gig Review: Hunter Hayes in London
My ears hurt and Hunter Hayes is being booed. Neither fact is a reflection on his talents. The earache comes from the screams that any word, action or smile from Hunter elicits. And since he is always smiling, the screams never subside. The booing came when Hunter made the charming error of dedicating a song... Continue Reading →
C2C Lineup: Is this the perfect recipe?
Is this the recipe for the perfect C2C line up? In the baron years between my discovery of Country Music in the mid-nineties and the revival of UK arena country festivals in the 2010s, it seemed we Brits were destined to admire our favourite country stars from afar. But finally the US big names are taking to... Continue Reading →
Gig Review: Sasha McVeigh & Sonia Leigh
The problem with going solo to a gig, for me anyway, is that the need for Dutch courage means I drink beer a lot faster than I would with company. Drinking fast isn't usually a problem but it means 1) there's no one to hold said beer when I frequently need the loo and so... Continue Reading →