The rain gods had departed and we were blessed with a few golden rays of sunshine and it was at the green hills of Eridge Park at Black Deer Festival that I caught up with Brennen Leigh the shining light of country music all the way from Texas.
Brennen started coming to these British Isles in 2012 with Noel McKay and played a whole lot of rooms, folk clubs and listeners. Brennen loves the audience in England and how they appreciate the poetry in her lyrics.
With Brennen Leigh at Black Deer Festival. Photo: Nick Barber
In Scandinavia and Europe artists are treated as exotic creatures because you really have to be an acclaimed performer to tour over this side of the world so that fans will take an interest in your music.
‘Carole with an E’ by Brennen Leigh
Brennen explains the genesis of Wonder Women of Country the supergroup with Kelly Willis and Melissa Carper. Kelly got in contact with Brennen and Melissa and asked if they would want to play together, they said yes of course and the group was born! One of my favourite tracks on their recently released EP is ‘Another Broken Heart’ a song by Kelly Willis, Bruce Robinson and Monty Warden years ago and brought the song to the the rest of the group. It’s a classic 1940’s and 1950’s.
Brennen Leigh on stage at Black Deer Festival. Photo: Nick Barber
Click below to hear the podcast from CloudwatcherUno featuring Brennen Leigh. Also streaming on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Charley Crockett at Hoxton Hall, London 6th May 2024
Charley Crockett graced London with his music last night in London’s Hoxton Hall. One of three dates billed as an intimate evening with the man himself. It’s a strange little venue which has roots in being a Music Hall, with two upper balconies so that the audience can get an ariel view of the act they have come to see.
Having arrived early to ensure that I got a place at the barrier (there is no barrier just a very high stage) I was greeted by his grumpy management (social skills were not their forte). Security staff were overwhelmed by the amount of fans that had arrived ‘I’ve been working here three years and I’ve never seen a line this big’. Once inside the machines being used to scan tickets didn’t work (not their fault apparently they hadn’t been given the right code).
Charley Crockett transforming London into Southern Texas
The merch on sale was cool with prices to match (especially if you wanted to buy the autographed vinyl or tour poster). Then entering the main hall you got the sense of history of the place with it’s wooden panelling and balustrades.
Charley Crockett on stage in London.
Then Charley came on stage and the audience erupted with whoops and whistles. It was so satisfying seeing Charley where he belongs on stage. I’m not sure if it was nerves or jetlag or a combination of both but the first few songs felt rushed and at times Charley started songs and abandoned them when he felt he hadn’t got them right or couldn’t remember the words. At one point he said to the crowd that he’d been ‘relying on the Blue Drifter’s too much’ and apologised for his guitar being out of tune ‘Usually it wouldn’t matter as you cant here it with the whole band’.
The show came to a complete stop when a fan collapsed due to heat Charley had to come to the microphone and said ‘Even in the USA we would get someone to help the lady out’, security did eventually come but it was the fans around her who helped her with water. Afterwards Charley did hope she was well. The break seemed to have given Charley a second breath and he came back more energised.
Just a man singing honest songs about the human condition.
Charley opened with ‘Are We Lonesome Yet’ and went through his extensive back catalogue with songs such as ‘The Valley’, Of The Cottonwood Trees’, and other classics like ‘Black Jack Country Chain’, ‘Juanita’, ‘Odessa’, ‘July Jackson’, ‘Night Rider’ and ‘5 More Miles’.
The one and only Charley Crockett in London’s Hoxton Hall.
Overall Charley gave a mesmerising performance which was worth the price of admission. There were flashes of excellence, an energy that connected the artist to this London audience and flowed back onto the stage.
Alaska-based Josh Fortenbery is a gravel-voiced singer and guitarist who possesses the rare ability to capture the raw essence of life through his music. With his debut album No Such Thing As Forever (March 8), Fortenbery delves into the depths of human emotions and experiences, weaving a tapestry of poignant stories that resonate with the soul.
Within the 12 tracks of this exceptional album, Fortenbery’s lyrical craftsmanship shines as he navigates through themes of ennui, existential dread, and the complexities of family dynamics. His sound effortlessly transcends genres, moving between country, folk, and bluegrass with captivating ease. Each song is a masterful exploration of modern anxiety, self-doubt, and the intricate layers of human relationships.
Josh Fortenbery
The album encapsulates the relentless pursuit of self-improvement amidst the fear of repeating past mistakes. Fortenbery’s thought-provoking lyrics resonate with anyone navigating the uncertainties of a new year, tapping into the universal desire for growth and personal evolution.
A true storyteller, Fortenbery infuses his music with the rich tapestry of his experiences, grounding it in the landscapes and communities that have shaped him. His collaboration with fellow Alaskan Justin Smith, the co-producer of the album, reflects a deep-rooted connection to his local environment, adding a layer of authenticity to his artistry.
‘Heirlooms’ – Josh Fortenbery
As a songwriter, Fortenbery fearlessly exposes his vulnerabilities, crafting songs that unravel the complexities of human emotions. Tracks like “Bored to Death,” “Nepotism,” and “Bitter” lay bare the raw intensity of his feelings, juxtaposed with a wry sense of humor that serves as a guiding light through the darkness. In “Another Existential Crisis,” he cleverly intertwines self-awareness with buoyant melodies, offering a glimpse of hope amidst existential ponderings.
But it is Fortenbery’s unwavering dedication to honesty and introspection that truly sets his music apart. His deeply personal exploration of family dynamics, as seen in “Heirlooms” and “Siblings,” unveils a captivating depth of emotion, painting a vivid portrait of love, connection, and the profound impact of familial bonds.
‘Sewing The Same Seam’ – Josh Fortenbery
Through his evocative storytelling, Fortenbery pays homage to his late grandmother, infusing his music with a sense of reverence and nostalgia. Tracks like “Nothing” and “Honey” serve as heartfelt tributes, offering a glimpse into his emotional landscape and celebrating the indelible mark his grandmother left on his life and art.
In a world marked by increasing disconnection, Fortenbery’s music serves as a beacon of authenticity and emotional resonance. His introspective journey resonates with a universal audience, offering a sense of solace and connection amidst the turmoil of the modern world. As Fortenbery himself reflects, his music is a testament to the enduring ties that bind us, bridging the gap between isolation and genuine human connection.
Click below to listen to the podcast or on Apple Music, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
Dani-Rae Clark and CloudwatcherUno talk together on S12 Ep 8 of the podcast. Speaking from their home in Nashville. We talk about their EP ‘Notes on A Crisis’ and especially their videos ‘Ain’t It Convenient’ with their friend Producer and Videographer Max Harms in Arizona. Originally from Vancouver, Canada they would go on tour once a year and would pass through Nashville, Tennessee and fell in love with it and they would always say they were going to move to Nashville.
During the pandemic the Canadian/American border was closed but because they have a dual citizenship, they were able to cross the border with their dog. It was a liberating moment as they packed everything they could into their very old pickup truck and just drove very slowly from North Idaho. The whole road journey took a month as they drove all the back roads.
They listen to a lot of old country, gospel and soul music and doesn’t listen that much to contemporary artists and their music. When it comes to writing a song, they aren’t sure how it happens, it’s a language that she has learnt how to use without being conscious of it. They feel strongly that songs should not have filler lyrics, each song needs to be crafted in a way that says what they feel needs to be said.
They are on tour and will be travelling to Arizona to record a new album later this month at Max Harm’s studio ‘The Garage’ and you can support them through their Kickstarter. They move around a lot as an artist so will have a band/bandmates all over the place and an absolutely fabulous performance from them and ‘The Let Downs‘ can be seen in ‘Make Me a Sinner’ filmed in Vancouver. A lot of these artists will be playing on the new album including their partner who is from Nova Scotia. The song is a Queer love song and one that challenges the hypocrisy about how women’s sexuality is demonised outside a very ladylike stereotype of marriage.
To afford to go on tour and produce the new album they have five jobs to make ends meet and make the music that brings them and us joy. When writing music, it takes them a lot of solitude so that they can give it their full attention. Lately they have been writing a lot of cheesy country duets, this included Christmas songs which they hate. Despite this they wrote a song for their favourite band ‘Big Fancy & The Shiddy Cowboys’.
They take a lot of inspiration from Tammy Wynette and George Jones and especially the classic track ‘Stand By Your Man‘. They really want to have similar solid duets in the future. Tammy and George made the saddest music of all time especially in country music. Sad music has such an important part in our lives and helps us access emotions that we aren’t able to access. Music lives in a different part of our brain than other information and the way a song can instigate a feeling that we weren’t even expecting.
To hear more from Dani-Rae Clark’s conversation with CloudwatcherUno click the audio below or listen to it on Apple Music, Spotify Music or wherever you get your podcasts from.
The Yodeling Country Bluesman aka Vaden Landers is the latest guest on the CloudwatcherUno Podcast. His voice takes you back to the golden era of Country Music, following in the musical footsteps of the great Hank Williams Sr.
From the hills and hollers of Eastern Tennessee emerges the incredibly talented troubadour, Vaden Landers. At the tender age of 17, Vaden Landers embarked on a nomadic exploration, traversing the American highways and railways to learn the art of a true traveler-musician.
The Yodeling Country Bluesman aka Vaden Landers
Vaden’s extraordinary talent and captivating performances have etched his name is etched into Asheville, North Carolina and into the city’s soul, creating an unforgettable legacy in its vibrant music scene. As a torchbearer of the classic country tradition, Vaden emanates authenticity, drawing audiences in with a timeless charm while infusing his music with a contemporary spark that resonates deeply with both long-time enthusiasts and new admirers. His exceptional fusion of tradition and innovation sets him apart as one of the most compelling and magnetic performers in the local music landscape.
‘Cream to my Coffee’ by Vaden Landers / Gems on VHS
Vaden’s journey, spanning the length and breath of America, carved the path for his songwriting, singing, yodeling, and picking skills. With an eclectic fusion of honky-tonk, rockabilly, folk, blues, ragtime, jazz, western swing, and old-time Appalachian influences, Vaden Landers emerges as a pioneer breathing new life into the traditional country music scene. His deep connection to the diverse landscapes and cultures of America is evident in the soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics that characterize his music. From the raw emotion of a blues tune to the foot-stomping energy of a western swing number, Vaden Landers’ music encapsulates the spirit of adventure and the rich tapestry of experiences garnered on his travels. As he continues to evolve as an artist, it’s clear that his unique blend of influences will continue to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the world of country music.
The podcast is truly a game-changer, packed with exciting upcoming news, the highly anticipated release of a new album, details about phenomenal shows, and the revelation of an upcoming tour that is set to captivate fans worldwide. Notably, the latest release “Goin’ HogWild” by Vaden is already creating quite a buzz.
‘Goin HogWild’ by Vaden Landers
Vaden Landers’ musical prowess extends far beyond the stage, as he effortlessly weaves a tapestry of sound that resonates with the depth and authenticity of a bygone era. His commitment to honoring the heritage of country music is evident in every note he plays, and his performances serve as a testament to the enduring power of tradition in a rapidly evolving musical landscape. With a commanding stage presence and a soul-stirring voice, Vaden Landers captures the essence of a time when music was raw, visceral, and deeply connected to the human experience.
Vaden Landers
In a world where trends come and go, Vaden Landers stands as a beacon of unwavering dedication to the soul-stirring melodies of classic country music. Through his evocative storytelling and masterful instrumentation, he ensures that the spirit of traditional American music lives on, captivating audiences and leaving an indelible impression on the hearts of all who have the privilege of experiencing his captivating performances. As he continues to carve out his unique place in the world of music, Vaden Landers embodies the timeless allure of country music and the enduring legacy of its rich storytelling tradition.
Vaden Landers
This electrifying podcast serves as a hub for all things music, offering a perfect blend of exclusive insights and thrilling announcements, making it a must-listen for music enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to embark on a musical journey like no other! Click below to listen to the podcast or on Apple Music, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
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.
Season 12 kicks off with a very special podcast with Lauren Jenkins all the way from Nashville. Lauren hadn’t been back to the UK for three years after the whole pandemic swept the world. Lauren was supporting Eric Paisley on his European tour and would accompany him in Germany. Lauren reached out to fans of her music to see if anyone would be willing to host her while she arrived in the UK before the tour started in the mainland. This was a complete no brainer and I reached out to Lauren to say that she should hold her first House Concert in London.
Lauren Jenkins first House Concert in the UK after three years
So preparations were made to do this very special concert. Just imagine your favourite artist playing in your very own living room. Mind officially blown. To make sure that Lauren’s voice reached the intimate crowd I reached out to my good friend and all amazing blues guitarist Kaspar ‘Berry’ Rapkin for Amps, speakers and microphones.
LJ in action in London.
There was still the small matter of promoting the house concert to all and sundry and the word was carried across the Isles of Britannia that an Angel of Nashville was going to be gracing our shores.
Then the night of the concert arrived and it was a most surreal experience having the Lauren Jenkins knock on my front door. With the most dazzling smile Lauren entered into the house (I’d forgotten how tiny she is in real life). Having Lauren soundcheck in your living room is extraordinary, it’s a true privilege to be behind the scenes at this point .
CloudwatcherUno with the one and only Lauren Jenkins
As the night grew darker, fans started coming to the house from all over the UK to enjoy this amazingly intimate evening. Lauren was the perfect combination of host, artist and musician.
Finally the moment we had all been waiting for was upon us and Lauren took centre stage in the living room and bewitched and entranced all her fans with stories songs and anecdotes
Click below to hear the podcast from CloudwatcherUno featuring Lauren Jenkins. Also streaming on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Stefan Oluvsson and CloudwatcherUno talk about his music from his home in Stockholm.
Stefan’s music enchants listeners once with his latest single, Beautiful Dancer. This poignant piece masterfully portrays the story of a dear friend who found pure joy in dancing. If you love country and Americana, this track will captivate your heart with its exquisite lyrics.
Beautiful dancer‘s mesmerizing melody invites us to sway and move in harmony with Stefan’s music, as if we are gracefully gliding across a dance floor, immersed in the enchanting atmosphere created by the intertwining notes and beats.
Stefan Olovsson brings his haunting voice and lyrics to life in his music.
With each lyrical stroke and rhythmic pulse, the music weaves a story that resonates deeply within our souls, igniting a sense of joy and exuberance. Stefan’s artistry comes to life through the harmonious blending of instruments, drawing us into a world where the evocative melodies and captivating rhythms hold us in their embrace, inspiring us to lose ourselves in the sublime dance of life.
Click below to hear the podcast from CloudwatcherUno featuring Stefan Olovsson. Also streaming on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Adam Schoenfeld and CloudwatcherUno talk about the inspiration behind his latest single ‘Breadcrumbs of Hope’.
During the unprecedented times of the pandemic, when the world seemed uncertain and anxiety loomed over our daily lives, a song was born. This soulful melody was crafted with heartfelt emotions, aiming to bring solace and hope to listeners within the confines of their homes. Its lyrics gently remind us that we are not alone in our struggles, and that the power of music can transcend physical boundaries, uplifting our spirits in times of darkness.
As the hauntingly beautiful notes resonate, they carry with them a message of resilience and unity, a call to endure and persevere. The poignant lyrics mirror the feelings of isolation and longing that many experienced during those strange and anxious times, creating an emotional connection with the listeners.
‘Breadcrumbs of Hope’ by Adam Shoenfeld
The song’s composition artfully blends melancholy and optimism, with heartfelt vocals evoking a sense of shared vulnerability and strength. Its captivating melody weaves a tapestry of emotions, transporting the listener to a realm where worries dissipate and optimism flourishes.
In the face of uncertainty, this song serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we can find solace and comfort through the universal language of music. It whispers softly to our souls, reminding us that amidst the chaos, there is still beauty to be found, and that together, we can emerge stronger.
So, let this song be a companion during those moments of uncertainty, as it resonates with our collective experiences and reminds us that we are not alone. May its melody bring calmness to your heart and inspire you to navigate through any challenges that lie ahead, for as the song softly fades, a glimmer of hope remains, illuminating our path towards a brighter future.
‘Behind The Song‘ is available on Monday 11th September 2023 to listen on @applepodcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Click below to hear the podcast from CloudwatcherUno featuring Adam Schoenfeld. Also streaming on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
CloudwatcherUno sits down to hear the story of Rodney Rice and his love of music. It was when he reached the tender age of twelve that Rice discovered his affinity for the guitar. Armed with only a rudimentary knowledge of a few chords, he eagerly began strumming the instrument, pouring his heart and soul into his every note. Little did he know that this humble beginning would mark the inception of an extraordinary musical journey.
S11 Ep 5 of the CloudwatcherUno Podcast features Rodney Rice.
While pursuing his burgeoning music career, Rice embraced various opportunities that came his way. At one point, he ventured into the world of oil and gas rigs in the heart of Texas. Yet, even amidst the gruelling and demanding nature of this work, his passion for music persisted. It was during this time that fate intervened in the form of an enlightening conversation.
‘Little Pieces’ by Rodney Rice
Taking a leap of faith, Rice embarked on a new chapter in his musical odyssey. It was within the hallowed walls of the Congress House Studio that he brought his artistic visions to life. With every strum of his guitar and every heartfelt lyric sung, Rice weaved together an intimate tapestry of emotions, pouring his soul into the creation of his first two albums, Empty Pockets and a Troubled Mind and Same Shirt, Different Day.
Rodney Rice the singing troubadour from the oil fields of Texas to Nashville.
However, it was Rice’s third album, simply titled “Rodney Rice”, where he truly found his stride. During the challenging times of the pandemic, Rice embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery and musical exploration. Seeking a new sonic palette for his music, he decided to work with the renowned Bomb Shelter studio in Nashville.
Embracing a more analogue approach, Rice and the team at the Bomb Shelter delved into uncharted territory, experimenting with different sounds, recording techniques, and instrumentation. The result was an album that stood apart from his previous works, both in terms of its production style and its lyrical depth.
‘Get To Where I’m Going’ by Rodney Rice
With his third album, Rodney Rice has solidified his place as a rising star in the Americana music scene. His warm, gritty vocals, ingenious lyricism, and dynamic melodies continue to captivate audiences and establish him as an artist to watch. As Rice himself sums it up, “The process was more analogue, and combined with changing all the variables, it’s no surprise there is a distinct difference between this one and my first two albums.”
Rodney’s self titled third album ‘Rodney Rice’ is a sensational emotional rollercoaster
Rice knows just how to capture the fleeting glimmers of an emotional moment in life and turn them into songs that evoke our own feelings of despair and hope; loss and love. And he delivers those lyrics with a knowing nod and wink, creating memorable characters in his songs whose foibles remind us of folks we know. As he says, “Music is a common language that reaches all and brings people from worlds apart together.”
Listen in to the conversation between Rodney and CloudwatcherUno by clicking the link below. Stream the rest of the eleven seasons on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Podcast Addict or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
CloudwatcherUno PLAY.LISTEN.ENJOY. 