August 2017 – Country Universe

Single Review: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “If We Were Vampires”

August 30, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 3

The latest single from Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit rises above its title to present a moving reflection on love and mortality.

NPR “Turning the Tables” List – A Conversation, Part Seven: Pop Goes the Country Universe (MIA & WTF)

August 27, 2017 Jonathan Keefe 3

We wrap up our NPR feature with a look at the baffling inclusions and exclusions from beyond the Country Universe.

Single Review: Mickey Guyton – “Nice Things”

August 24, 2017 Jonathan Keefe 8

Mickey Guyton knows why the caged bird sings, and God love her for that.

Single Review: Maren Morris, “I Could Use a Love Song”

August 23, 2017 Jonathan Keefe 2

Another solid radio single undermined by its production choices.

Single Review: Delta Rae, “A Long and Happy Life”

August 22, 2017 Jonathan Keefe 3

Country radio would be better if it embraced the talent and optimism of Delta Rae.

Single Review: Midland, “Drinkin’ Problem”

August 21, 2017 Jonathan Keefe 3

Take your authenticity fetishes elsewhere; this single is just fine.

NPR “Turning the Tables” List – A Conversation, Part Six: Pop Goes the Country Universe (Madonna)

August 20, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 12

A discussion of the two Madonna albums included on the NPR list, along with six albums that should’ve been there before one of them.

NPR “Turning the Tables” List: A Conversation, Part Six: Pop Goes the Country Universe (#1-#150)

August 14, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 8

As we expand the conversation beyond country music, we share our thoughts on the albums included by Tori Amos, Bangles, Sheryl Crow, Ani DiFranco, Eurythmics, and Whitney Houston.

NPR “Turning the Tables” List: A Conversation, Part Five: NPR MIA (Kevin’s Picks)

August 10, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 4

Five women that Kevin thinks were left off of the NPR list.

In Memoriam: Glen Campbell (1936-2017)

August 9, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 8

Country, pop, and session guitarist legend Glen Campbell has passed away at 81.