Former Rex and Pullman multi-instrumentalist Curtis Harvey released his solo debut last month. Box Of Stones (FatCat) was recorded in Harvey’s basement, and most vocal tracks were done in just one take. For the percussion, Harvey says he used “whatever happened to be [around] at the time: bottles, pencils, pots and pans, an old snare and bass drum.” As a result, Box Of Stones calls to mind the revered work of John Fahey, though the sonic flourishes are undeniably all Harvey. He embarks on an eight-date U.S. tour on Saturday, with plans for a more extensive jaunt in the spring.
“Oldertoo” (download):
https://magnetmagazine.com/audio/Oldertoo.mp3
Calexico “Over Your Shoulder”
Thought I would start with this gem. It’s great when an instrumental can tell a story, and this one does it well. When that pedal steel comes in and then a lone trumpet—you’re gone … some south-of-the-border adventure that may not turn out so well. Video
Chris Bathgate “We Die”
Despair accompanied by mandolin. Beautiful lullaby for the end.
Gillian Welch “I’m Not Afraid To Die”
A good follow up to Chris’ hopelessness, Gillian tackles the same with sweet indifference to the inevitable. Video
Ted Hawkins “The Good And The Bad”
Ted brings it back home on this track from his last tour. When he gets to the chorus, you believe it. Farewell, Ted.
Hayden “Damn This Feeling”
A very melancholy little piano song to bring you back down. Wouldn’t be out of place on After The Gold Rush. Video
Red Red Meat “Gauze”
I’m not sure what this one is about, but it’s one of my favorites. The hesitation of the band behind the verse … and the killer line to sink you: “Kissed your mouth to shut you up,” Nice work. Video
The Felice Brothers “Ballad Of Lou The Welterweight”
Ian Felice tells the cautionary tale of Lou, who, being spent after making love before his bout, gets the crap kicked out of him. Dylan used to write good tales like this. Now the Felice Brothers do. Video
Doc Watson “Your Long Journey”
I once saw Doc do this live. It messed me up for a while. What can you do when your love is taken before you but sing your sad lament?
Band Of Horses “The Funeral”
A mournful tale: good words, quiet verse, wall-of-sound chorus, loads of reverb. What else do you need? I thought this was a good way to end the mix. Video
