When lavadava called me with two tickets to see our man Jimmy James play a solo acoustic show at the Alabama Theatre, I was pumped to say the least. When Sarah approved the trip, I was ecstatic. February 17th come on!
Here's Reg's lowdown on the four musicians that will be playing at his 10th Anniversary:
"Patty Griffin is set to release her latest CD “Children Running Through” (ATO) in February and just wait until you hear it. It’s as good a record as she has ever released and her soulfulness shines through like never before. I am so glad that the show’s listeners will have a chance to hear these songs live before she kicks off her national tour in March. Patty hasn’t performed in Birmingham in a while and we are more than ready for her to take the stage and blow us all the way with that voice that is part angel, part devil and all magic. I’ve been playing Patty on the show since it first aired and I still can’t believe that she is playing the anniversary. Can’t wait!
What can I say about Jim James that I haven’t said already? If you haven’t seen him perform solo/acoustic then you are missing out on one of the most compelling and gorgeous live acts you will ever hear. My Morning Jacket’s songs take on a whole new life when Jim presents them this way and if you are lucky, he will perform a cover like Bread’s “Make It With You” that will melt you. Jim symbolizes what I love most about doing Reg’s Coffee House and it is great to have someone that I call my friend performing for the Reg’s Coffee House listeners.
Matthew Perryman Jones put out an independent release that just might have been my top release of 2006, “Throwing Punches In The Dark” (independent release). This record is one of the most honest records I have ever heard and has been a major part of my life the last few months. The songs are undeniable and the presentation is engaging and endearing. One second I feel like I’m listening to Robbie Robertson or Peter Gabriel, the next, Bono and Jeff Buckley are flowing from my speakers. If you love music, you must check out Matthew Perryman Jones.
Stoll Vaughan brings the delivery style of Townes Van Zandt, the grit of Johnny Cash, the energy of Bruce Springsteen and the poeticism of Bob Dylan to the stage. His attitude and approach remind me more of “Guitar Town”/”Exit 0” Steve Earle than anyone else. I was a big fan of his debut record but I am freaking nuts about his latest “Love Like A Mule” (Shadowdog Records). I can’t think of a better way to kickoff the evening."
