The Warm Up with Beth Bombara

We had a great time hanging out with Beth Bombara and her band, which included husband Kit and brother-in-law JJ and regular touring partner Karl Eggers, this afternoon. We went to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music (RIP Skipp Pitts), grabbed a sandwich at Kwik Check (Memphis’ worst kept secret), and then kicked it old school in Studio B at Ardent (setting up around Jody Stephens‘ drum set, which you’ll see in the video –  since he has been practicing non-stop for his upcoming show in London). We were a little crowded, but when you take a listen you’ll hear that the entire set still came out sounding awesome!

The band drove in from St. Louis to spend the day soaking  up some Memphis soul before heading west to tour for the next few weeks. We think they might make a few fans along the way…

So, take a listen to the podcast – we kick things off with three stripped down songs and then we chat with Beth and her band about what national monuments they plan on visiting on this tour, the idea of recording in ghost towns, and of course, when she’ll start work on her new record. Tonight Bombara will join forces with The Memphis Dawls at The Buccaneer to play one of those shows that we’re sure people will be saying they were at, even if they weren’t. See you there?

Read the Bio:

Having independently released two successful EPs and, most recently, a full length album on vinyl, Beth Bombara is now more wanderer than “wonderer”. A Grand Rapids, MI native and current St. Louis resident, Beth has developed her signature sound over the past decade, drawing inspiration from not only her favorite rock, blues, and folk musicians but also from the places she’s lived in and toured through over the years, first as a member of Samantha Crain and the Midnight Shivers and then as a solo artist.

Beth has steadfastly grown into her identity as a strong musician first and foremost, loath to be categorized as another delicate female singer-songwriter. Beth’s versatility in live performances and multi-instrumental chops make her much more than just another “girl with a guitar”.

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The Warm Up with Lydia Loveless

We read all the press before she arrived, but we were not prepared for just how good Lydia Loveless is in person. She has been called the “heir apparent of Loretta Lynn” and we can totally see why. Loveless sings songs about love, drinking and heartbreak and does it like she is twice her age. She pulled up in a maroon van and stepped out like she just hopped off the bus from the 70s.

You know how your hip friends lament the state of country music today and like to tell you that they like “old school” country? Well, pass on the name Lydia Loveless to them, cause they will love her.

So take a few minutes to listen to three fantastic recordings we made this afternoon. Then go see her tonight at The Hi-Tone. Buy her a shot of whiskey. She likes Whiskey.

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