Ags Connolly is the honkiest tonkin’ homegrown outlaw we’ve had on the CloudwatcherUno podcast. Ags Connolly is a traditional country singer-songwriter from Oxfordshire but in his soul beats the heart of a native Texan artist. His debut album ‘How About Now’ was released in February 2014 and received fantastic reviews, Maverick magazine hailed it as a ‘masterpiece’.
Ags talks about how vitally important it is for investment in the arts to support UK artists and how that differs for musicians in mainland Europe. We’ve lost so many venues over the last couple of years which impacts music in the UK including the iconic ‘Borderline‘ in London where so many legends of country played but sadly no longer exists.
Ags explains the importance of having a producer such as ‘Dean Owens‘ who is as passionate and whose skill and experience transforms an ordinary album into a modern masterpiece. Dean worked with Ags on his first two albums and his legacy can be heard on Ag’s self produced third and fourth album.
On ‘Siempre‘, Spanish for ‘always’, his latest album he fully embraces the border country Tex-Mex sound, Ags wanted a completely authentic sound and that meant learning to play bajo quinto, the instrument is similar to a guitar but infinitely harder to learn how to play. Ags even sings in Spanish, no mean feat for this British artist.
If you resonate with the sound of Texas-style music, flawlessly sung and exquisitely played, then Ags is the artist for you. The seamless fusion of captivating melodies and heartfelt lyrics creates a mesmerizing musical journey that’s perfect for a summer evening spent on your porch, in your garden, or anywhere you can unwind.
‘Siempre’ is not just an album; it’s a mesmerizing journey through time and space, a sonic exploration that captures the essence of longing and wanderlust. From the first note to the closing melody, this masterpiece weaves a captivating tapestry of emotions that resonate deep within the soul, drawing on the nostalgia of distant places and heartfelt stories. Each track in this musical opus is an indispensable addition to your collection, enriching your playlist with its enchanting melodies and evocative harmonies.
With Ags when supported Charley CrockettWith Ags when he supported Jaime WyattWIth Ags when he supported Summer Dean
Click below to hear the podcast from CloudwatcherUno featuring Ags Connolly. Also streaming on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Ashley Harding, a talented musician and songwriter, recently sat down with CloudwatcherUno for an exclusive interview. The podcast centred around Ashley’s highly anticipated new album titled “Spoon Music,” to be released on August 18th, 2023.
Ashley Harding talks exclusively about his new album ‘Spoon Music’ with CloudwatcherUno
As the conversation unfolded, Ashley shared fascinating insights into the creative process behind the album. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Ashley and his friends managed to defy the odds and produce an astonishing debut album that is sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
“Spoon Music” is a unique musical journey that seamlessly blends elements from the cinematic universe of classic western films like “True Grit,” “The Outlaw Josey Wales,” and “Tombstone” with the timeless sounds of iconic artists such as Merle Haggard, Buck Owens, and Waylon Jennings. The result is a truly unforgettable audio masterpiece that pays homage to the rich heritage of country music while infusing it with a fresh and contemporary twist.
Ashley Harding in action on stage
Ashley’s passion for storytelling shines through every track on the album, as he effortlessly weaves vivid narratives and emotions into his songwriting. With heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and impeccable production, “Spoon Music” promises to transport listeners to a world of authenticity, nostalgia, and heartfelt connection.
This highly anticipated release has been meticulously crafted by Ashley and his collaborators, ensuring a rich and immersive sonic experience that will resonate with fans of country music and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or new to the genre, “Spoon Music” offers something truly special for everyone.
Ashley Harding a grass roots musician from Cornwall
The album hasn’t been mastered as yet but Brindley Hall who played drums, bass guitar and vocals throughout the album mixed the final version. Ashley teaches guitar lessons via Zoom and also performs in covers bands, usually singing Dad Rock songs around Cornwall. Ashely recorded the tracks in a makeshift studio in an industrial estate which had soundproofing added to stop the sound leaking through.
Ashley was smitten with music (thanks to his mom and dad) at an early age. Growing up in a household filled with melodies and harmonies, he was exposed to a wide variety of musical genres, from pop to reggae, reggae to country. It was in this musical environment that Ashley’s passion for music began to bloom. It was the guitar that truly captured his heart. The moment he plucked his first string and felt the vibration resonate through his fingertips, he knew that this instrument would be his creative outlet.
Ashley with his first love the guitar.
Throughout his teenage years, Ashley would spend countless hours in his room, practicing and perfecting his guitar skills. He would immerse himself in the works of guitar legends like Mark Knopfler and Hank Marvin, trying to dissect their techniques and incorporate them into his own playing style.
As he grew older, music became more than just a hobby for Ashley. It became a way for him to express himself deeply and authentically. He found solace in strumming chords and pouring his emotions into heartfelt lyrics. Composing music became his way of narrating his own story, as well as connecting with others who resonated with his songs.
Ashley captivating audiences with his voice, passion and guitar .
Ashley’s dedication and talent did not go unnoticed. Soon, he started playing with friends in house bands, taking on gigs at local pubs and jam nights. Every opportunity to share his music with others was a chance for him to grow as an artist and connect with his audience on a profound level.
In November 2019, Ashley made a bold decision. Fueled by his passion and unwavering belief in his music, he decided to quit his day job and fully dedicate himself to his musical pursuits in the coming year. The future seemed bright, with new bookings and exciting opportunities on the horizon.
However, just as Ashley was eagerly preparing to embark on this new chapter of his life, fate had a different plan in store. The COVID-19 pandemic hit the world unexpectedly, bringing with it a wave of uncertainty and cancellations. Gigs were postponed or canceled altogether, venues closed down, and the music industry as a whole was left in a state of limbo.
There is no love greater for a musician than his favourite instrument.
Despite this unforeseen setback, Ashley didn’t give up and the album ‘Spoon Music’ is a testament to his character and dedication to his music al vision. Whether you’re seeking solace in the soothing tunes or looking to ignite your passion for rhythm and harmony, Ashley’s music has the power to transport you to a realm of pure musical bliss.
But music is more than just sounds; it has the power to evoke memories, heal wounds, and bring people together. Ashley’s music not only resonates with listeners on a personal level but also has the ability to foster a sense of connection and unity among diverse audiences. It transcends language barriers and cultural boundaries, creating a universal language that speaks to the hearts and souls of people worldwide.
Allow yourself to be captivated by the spellbinding allure of Ashley’s music—a truly transformative experience awaits you. Click the link below to listen to the episode and stream the rest of the eleven seasons on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Podcast Addict, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Season 10 ~ Episode 6, of the CloudwatcherUno Podcast features the up and coming Donny Van Slee out on Friday 7th April 2023.
Raised in Florida but now living in Nashville, Donny is the only licensed chiropractor making his mark in the Nashville music scene.
We talk about his early years, his decision to reach out to the “World-Famous Tootsies Orchid Lounge” where after an audition they promptly hired him, through to being inspired by his peers such as Zach Bryan to explore his passion for music.
“Sip on Me” | Donny Van Slee
So come enjoy the conversation with Donny and CloudwatcherUno on @applepodcasts @spotifypodcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts or click the link below.
CloudwatcherUno catches up with Jack Browning at his headline gig at the honkiest tonkiest bar in London @thedukesofhighgate Speaking with Jack just after his epic show (which features songs from his new album) we get to hear about the progress on recording the album, mixing and final overdubs on his songs. Jack has always played in other bands but when Covid came around he started focusing on his own personal songs.
Jack had struggled to write his own songs and then gave himself a deadline to write an EP’s worth of songs but ended up writing 10 songs. He then recorded them with a live band in Kent. Then Pat Lyons who plays with Colter Wall and other artists have added their magic to bring these songs to life. Jack is trying to bring that full band experience onto a live stage. The plan is to send the album around to see if there is any interest.
Jack has released singles/music before such as “Walkin’ Man” which Jack had recorded in his art studio. It was a strange feeling to be a leading man rather than a session player. Jack has always been into music and has leaned more into country music as he gets older. The album is a milestone for Jack as an artist as he reflects on his life.
“Walkin’ Man” by Jack Browning
Jack is a fan of country first and foremost and wants to capture the energy of this music and channel it into the album. Johnny Cash and The Highwayman, Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, Charley Crockett and Colter Wall have all influenced Jack and his music.
Jack will be playing live on 23rd July 2023 in Peterborough at thewillowfestival.co.uk Make sure you catch him live on stage.
To listen into the conversation with CloudwatcherUno and Jack click the link below. Also streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Podcast Addict or wherever you listen to your podcasts
Danni Nicholls speaks with CloudwatcherUno from her home about her “Hear Your Voice” tour ( delayed by two years because of the pandemic), her three albums “A little Redemption”, “Mockingbird Lane” and “The Melted Morning”. We also talk about the inspiration for the songs “Hear Your Voice”, “Lemonade”, “Wish I Were Alone” and her new single “Little Fictions”.
“Hear Your Voice” by Danni Nicholls
Danni tells how she struggled with not performing during the pandemic, how technology and her loyal fans supported her and kept her afloat during those strange times.
Born in Bedford, England but raised on country music all her life.
Danni met Chris Donoghue at an Emmi Lou Harris concert in London and that sparked a musical relationship which resulted in them connecting and Chris offering Danni his help in making a record whenever Danni was in Nashville. A few months later and Danni was in Nashville and lo and behold Chris produced two of Danni’s albums.
“First Cuckoo of Spring” by Danni Nicholls
Danni was also performing at young age and did a Drama degree and at one point she was thinking of going into the world of theatre (and still would if she got the opportunity!), Danni has been listening to country and American roots music (thanks to her Grandmother on her mum’s side) from a young age and Patsy Cline was the soundtrack to her youth, Danni even played the saxophone in growing up and loved the big band sound.
After two years Danni finally got to take her ‘Her Your Voice’ Tour out on the road.
“Little Fictions” was one of the first songs that Danni engineered the sound without the help of a producer and one that she is most proud of.
“Little Fictions” by Danni Nicholls
Danni went back to Nashville in September 2021 and wrote a whole bunch of songs for album number four and his coming close to selecting those that best reflect her as a musician. There’s more touring on the horizon for Danni in 2022 but once that is done Danni will concentrate on the new album and bringing it out in the open for her fans.
Say hello to one of the leading country and Americana artists from the UK, Danni Nicholls.
Click below to hear the podcast from CloudwatcherUno featuring Danni Nicholls. Also streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Podcast Addict or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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