Review of G Love's New Album - Fixin' to Die

We're only a week away from the release of G Love’s latest release, Fixin’ to Die (February 22, 2011), and after getting an exclusive listen I’m pleased with the results. We were all given a taste of the album with the release of the title track back in December to find Garrett going back to his roots with a very bluesy sound, heavy harmonica and a rhythm bound to get you clapping. "Fixin' to Die" gave me the first positive impression of this new compilation with the anticipation of the rest of songs I excitedly went to listen.  I'm not completely sold on my first dissection, but eager for an extended observation of the album, when I can put it on repeat.

Scott and Seth Avett of The Avett Brothers produced Fixin’ to Die recorded at Echo Mountain Studios, nestled in the eclectic music town of Asheville, North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the converted church seems like an appropriate place to record. The Avetts are frequently in Asheville, a city known for the roots and bluegrass, and you definitely feel the folk-rock mountain music influence throughout the entire album.  The Avetts even offer up some vocals on "You've Got to Die", layered with G's distinct eccentric delivery it makes a unique pairing that most people wouldn't have thought to combine. Surprisingly they complement each other well introducing a fresh and interesting sound.

The disc begins with "Milk and  Sugar", sounding vaguely similar to "Cold Beverage" off his '94 effort, G Love and The Special Sauce, yet it sets the tone for the entire disc as you're launched into a journey scarcely reminiscent of the Philly basketball-loving, hip-hop rhyming G Love.  The leading track eases you into the country, bluegrass, folk-fused collection of Fixin' to Die.  "The Road" quickly drew me in.  This number immediately sends the "G Love" energy that made us love Garrett in the first place, but with a strong Avett hold on some classic sounding harmonies, precipitating hints of 70s classic rock. It sounds as if G might be in some unfamiliar territory when his voice strains in some parts, yet he doesn't let us down, handing over a powerful track… casting the image of his life on tour.  

Several sweet-tempered love songs grace the album: "Katie Miss", "Heaven" and a surprising Paul Simon cover, "50 Ways to Lose Your Lover".  As a Simon fan and a huge lover of the song, it was a bit disappointing as it lacked the energy that you feel in the original version when it hits the chorus. The up-driving excitement normally found in the refrain ("Get out the back Jack, make a new plan Stan, you don't have to be coy Roy") is blurred in G's version. When released in 1975, that hook with the familiar military drum beat immediately pulled you in, along with the humorous advice from a mistress to an unhappy husband, lending dark amusement to the song.  Yet as G's cover begins it was barely recognizable until the vocals came in, which were smooth and easy, with more of a country/bluegrass feel that made me envision wild dancing hippies, rather than a humorous release from a forlorn relationship.  A decent rendition and fitting for the album, yet is misses the mark on the intensity of the original.

Lonesome traveling songs are weaved throughout Fixin' to Die, creating somewhat of a theme around life on the road in the album. A more pop'n tune along this theme, "Get Goin", sneaks in the familiar G Love - forcing your body to sway, while sticking to that folk sound.  He verges on some hip-hop for a moment, yet instead allows the piano to carry the song in the customary blues fashion. Tucked in the album a standout song, "Pale Blue Eyes", and the only one that left me wondering about the meaning… a possible missed opportunity or regret?  "Pale Blue Eyes" was soft, sad, with a despairing fiddle to haunt the lyrics. I'm eager for another listen.  Even songs about his grandmother who passed away, his dog who passed away, and the birth of his son add layers to the classic old-school, story-telling blues in which people can relate.  In "Ma Mere" he strips down to an uncomplicated song recalling the advice and guidance of a lost family member, while revealing an even dulcet side - sweet, simple and grateful.

Overall, Fixin' to Die is a solid new album from G Love. Looking back upon his musical career it's nice to see G venture away from "Booty Call" songs, and explore his roots with a more mature approach, which we've been seeing here and there throughSuperhero Brother and songs like "Peace, Love, Happiness", yet it was followed with "Who's Got the Weed"; not exactly the most cultivated attitude. Don't get me wrong "Baby Got Sauce" is my jam, but Fixin' to Die is an obvious step in the new direction for Garret Dutton, and I'm voraciously waiting for another chance to give it a spin.  

Thank you Music Allies for the exclusive listen -Fixin' to Die out February 22, 2011 - pre-order athttp://philadelphonic.com/home.

A Goodbye to Bad Ash from Mountain Xpress

“Bad” girl makes good: Ashley Davis promoted local music through her shows “Homegrown” and “Local Licks.”

It is a bittersweet moment after all that Asheville has given me, and I am so grateful for my experience here.  I could not have done it without the support of all of you, and I thank you! This decision was a hard one to make, but I have decided to pursue some personal endeavors.  

I will be keeping up with Asheville’s Music Scene, and will still be active in spreading the word about the amazing artists that are coming through and out of WNC. Along with music blogging, I will be writing for a site out of San Diego, 

www.SongWritersMarketplace.com.  

Thank you again Asheville for all of your support in the last 3 and a half years, it has meant more that you know.  xoxo
 
Read the article in the best local publication around the Mountain Xpress!  Thanks Mountain X, I love you guys!

Or you can read it here...

A goodbye to Bad Ash

It's sad but true: Ashley Davis (a.k.a. Bad Ash), on-air radio personality for Asheville Radio Group stations 98.1 The River and 105.9 The Mountain and host of both Homegrown and Local Licksprograms, is leaving Asheville. Her last day on-air will be Monday, Feb. 7.

"I’m moving to Lahaina, Maui, and starting my new voice over/music blog website, Bad Ash Voice," she told Xpress. "Also, I will be writing for a site out of San Diego called Songwriters Marketplace.”

Davis is originally from Illinois; she started working part-time in radio at age 18 and began doing voice-over work during college. She earned the nickname "Bad Ash" for her no-nonsense, fun-loving rocker attitude.

Davis will be replaced on Homegrown by Heather Anders and on Local Licks by Aaron LaFalce. Her last local show on Sunday, Feb. 6, will be co-hosted by local singer/songwriter and Broomstars guitarist Jeff Santiago. For her final on-air shift on Feb. 7 she says there will be "no special programming. I might invite some friend in the studio, but it will just be me shootin' the shit with the listeners."

Davis has been a major supporter and promoter of local music, working to represent Asheville's growing music scene on a radio station that plays predominantly national and international pop and indie music. She's also made countless appearances at local events as a spokesperson, talent judge, emcee and fan. She's also interviewed numerous local and nationally touring artists in-studio. Her contribution to local music really can't be overstated, and her presence in Asheville will be greatly missed.

See Davis off at the Bad Ash Big Game Bash, a pre-Super Bowl party at Wild Wing Café on Sunday, Feb. 6, 4-6 p.m. There will be “Better than Bad Ash Trivia” and prize giveaways including a TV and recliner during the game.

(Follow her on Face Book at facebook.com/pages/Bad-Ash-Voice/171357429574476 and Twitter at twitter.com/BadAshVoice.)

Farewell, Bad Ash! Good luck on all of your future endeavors and keep in touch.

I love Donavon Frankenreiter

Not only did I get to meet Donavon Frankenreiter & Matt Grundy (Donavon's bass player), but I also caught the show last night at the Orange Peel.  The whole night was awesome and had such an amazing energy!  For the third time I was able to dance & enjoy the silly ways of Frankenreiter, who just captures the spirit of Asheville.  Thanks for coming Donavon!  Also, Mexican artist Ximena Sarinana opened, muchos gracias pierda gran trabajo!