Phosphorescent - "Nothing Was Stolen" (Live)

We've emerged from our winter hibernation and look forward to a merry and musical 2015. Although much of the country is currently braced in cold, we're warmed by the news that Newport Folk Festival tickets are again on sale. And again, it will sell out, so act quickly and enjoy this magical weekend.

A couple of years ago, Phosphorescent played one of the weekend's most magical sets (You can hear it here, via NPR) and if that set was good, his latest release sounds even better. On February 17, Matthew Houck and his bandmates will warm up your winter with an epic 3xLP live album, Live From the Music Hall. Houck's tender tenor wobbles between warm and weary, but he never loses his verve, and his band absolutely smokes. Give a listen to "Nothing Was Stolen" below and pre-order the album here. 

New Music: Phosphorescent

I've now heard two tracks from Phosphorescent's upcoming LP Here’s To Taking It Easy, and both have knocked me out.  It's Hard To Be Humble (When You're From Alabama) is propelled by a bouncy bass line and horn section.  The Mermaid Parade, on the other hand, rambles along at a more laid back pace - sounding like a Basement Tapes or American Beauty outtake, guitar licks dancing with honky tonk piano. 

The Mermaid Parade
It's Hard To Be Humble (When You're From Alabama)

Here's To Taking It Easy is out May 11 on Dead Oceans.  You can pre-order CD and vinyl here