Years in Review

2012

Robert Earl Keen

Among the large contingent of talented songwriters who emerged in Texas in the 1980s and 1990s, Robert Earl Keen struck an unusual balance between sensitive story-portraits ("Corpus Christi Bay") and raucous barroom fun ("That Buckin' Song"). These two song types in Keen's output were unified by a mordant sense of humor that strongly influenced the early practitioners of what would become known as alternative country music. Keen, the son of an oil executive father and an attorney mother, is a native of Houston. His parents enjoyed both folk and country music, and his own style would land between those genres. Keen wrote poetry while he was in high school, but it wasn't until he went to journalism school at musically fertile Texas A&M that he learned to play the guitar. He and Lyle Lovett became friends and co-wrote a song, "This Old Porch," which both later recorded.

Keen made a splash in Austin with his debut album, No Kinda Dancer, self-financed in 1984 for $4500. He moved to Nashville during the heady experimentalism of the 1980s that saw Lovett and k.d. lang hit the country scene, but he soon returned to Austin. Texas landscapes and residents provided him with creative inspiration, as his second album, West Textures, made clear. That album yielded one of Keen's signature numbers, an ambitious crime-spree song called "The Road Goes on Forever."

By then signed to Sugar Hill, Keen recorded a live album shortly after West Textures but waited several years to release a studio follow-up, 1993's A Bigger Piece of Sky. After that album (which contained "Corpus Christi Bay") came Gringo Honeymoon (1994), which merged Keen's story songs with the emerging sounds of alt-country. Gurf Morlix, who later produced albums for both Keen and Lucinda Williams, played guitar. A young Gillian Welch provided harmony vocals.

Once again, after taking his career to a new stage, Keen recorded a live album No. 2 Live Dinner, (1996) and took time to accumulate new material. The 1997 album Picnic, his first for the Arista Texas label, again moved in the direction of alternative country, featuring Keen in a duet with the Cowboy Junkies' Margo Timmins, while 1998's Walking Distance featured sparer textures. Whatever production style surrounded his songs, Keen's musical personality seemed consistent, and his live shows, widely known thanks to a touring schedule that often approached 200 dates a year in the 1990s, grew organically, in depth and control.

In the early 2000s Keen signed with the Lost Highway label and released the album Gravitational Forces (2001). He also devoted time to his influential annual concert series and talent festival, Texas Uprising, which took place at several venues around Texas and the Far West. Farm Fresh Onions (2003) and What I Really Mean (2005) were released on Koch. ~ James Manheim, All Music Guide

Dave Fenley and The Good Deal

Dave Fenley & The Good Deal is having a great year to say the least. Upon the release of their debut album titled, “A Minute to Breathe” they are already nominated for 4 awards at the Texas Music Awards held in Linden, TX as well as Male Vocalist/Yr (which Dave has won the previous 2 years), Vocal Group/Yr, Song/Yr for “Sooner” and Musician/Yr for lead player Davey Schrank. There are so many reasons their new album is recognized as ushering in a new breed of Texas Country music, but its better just to experience the more organic, stripped down, lyric and melody based sound where you not only understand the words….but feel them - 3 guys, 2 guitars, and a box. Meet DFGD.

Dave Fenley was born and raised in Lufkin, Tx. Songs like “East Texas Lullaby” and “Good Boy” which charted in 2009 led to his eventual forming of the group Poor J. Brown whose song “Family Tree” still plays on stations across Texas and abroad. Currently in Fredericksburg, if Dave isn’t writing, performing or sleeping, he’s probably cooking for his beautiful new wife Eden. “She’s the reason I write the way I do…’cause love is real,” says Dave. So take this gravel voiced, soul filled, bearded poet and throw in the humor of Todd Snider, the honesty of Walt, and of course his motto: SPREAD LOVE LIKE PEANUT BUTTER. That’s Dave. Dave Fenley and The Good Deal

Davey “The Deal” Schrank is from Priddy, TX and was raised on a farm where hard work and rain were the two most important things. Somewhere he found time to learn guitar and other strings. A multi-instrumentalist with a beautiful voice is not usually a secret for very long. Originally with the Dallas based Benjamin Allen Band, Davey became known for his captivating lead work and unparalleled harmonies. Fenley had been a fan of Davey for years when they finally teamed up in 2011 to start DFGD. Now, they just needed a drummer.

Matt “The Ginger Love” Parker is from Brownsville, TX. After living all over the country he finally ended up in San Antonio in 2004 where Dave Fenley was living at the time. Matt found work quickly as a drummer for arguably the most successful cover band in the city. Years later, after becoming not only known for his drum skills but also as the front man of his own 3 piece band Right on Red, Matt was invited to be the percussionist for an upstart band: DFGD. Matt had only dabbled in alternative percussion at the time so when Fenley said his vision was for Matt to play a box called the “Cajon,” Matt was naturally skeptical. But he grasped it quickly and is now the backbone behind one of the most unique and diverse bands on this scene.

Bryan Harkness

It all started with a gift from grandfather to grandson. When Bryan Harkness was 10 years old, his grandfather gave him an old guitar and taught him how to play. By the time Bryan was 11, he was playing on stage at bluegrass festivals around Texas, and so began his musical journey.

At 18 years old and fresh out of high school, Bryan began his professional music career, touring for more than 4 years with legendary country and western artist Ray Price. During this time, he also shared stages such as the historic Ryman Auditorium, Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry and D.C’s Kennedy Center, accompanying such musical luminaries as Gene Watson, Willie Nelson, Vince Gill, Lee Ann Womack, Kris Kristopherson, The Judds, and Martina McBride.

An avid songwriter who draws his inspiration from everyday life experiences, Bryan feels his music most closely resembles that of Alan Jackson and George Strait.

“Just anything in life that sparks something,” says Bryan. “By using your imagination, you put yourself in that place or in someone else’s shoes.”

When Bryan is not touring he spends his time teaching guitar and song writing for aspiring artists at his home studio in Lufkin, Texas. He recently finished recording his first studio album at Houston’s Tierra Studios, set to be released in the spring of 2010 by Tierra Studios.

Westbound 21

Westbound 21 is a Texas Country band based in Nacogdoches, Texas. The band was formed in 2009 by Cody Wayne, Max McRuiz, and Lyndsey Torrez. Each a successful musician, they decided that they could combine their talents to create a band that would produce great Texas Country music. Ronney Godfrey later joined the band as drummer. Once the band takes to the stage, the crowd knows it’s going to be a great time. Check out their new website to see some pictures and music: www.westbound21.com

Cody Wayne — He will make you want to move to the sticks, buy a four-wheel drive, and date a backwoods barbie. From Nacogdoches Texas, Cody has been submerged in deep Texas country most of his life. Since the time he picked up the guitar, singing and playing has been his passion. Not only does Cody take the role of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, he has also written many of the songs Westbound 21 plays.

Max McRuiz — With a sound that makes you want to stop everything and dance, Max's voice always captivates a crowd. A loud and proud Texan, he has been calling Longview home since day one. From the moment of conception, Max has been a musician. Not fueled by money, he sings and performs because he is driven by the fans' energy. Max is also the lead vocalist and plays lead guitar.

Lyndsey Torrez — You're not a Texas country band unless you have an Aggie in it. From College Station, Texas and known as the band's hippie, Lyndsey comes to the stage with a unique style and energy that captures the crowd. When he lays down the first bass note to start a show, everyone knows it's going to be a great night. An all around talented musician, Lyndsey takes to the stage with bass in hand.

Ronnie Godfrey — He is one of the few men that plays with sticks for a living. From Longview Texas, Ronnie plays drums for the band. He has been rocking out since the age of three and never plans to stop. He is finishing up a music degree at SFA which means he will soon be a certified Texas Country Junkie.

Mondo Domo

Although originally formed in 1989 in Lufkin, Mondo Domo disbanded in the early nineties. In 2011, Mondo Domo re-formed with four of the original five members, driven by renewed vigor and enthusiasm. With influences ranging from The Cult to Nirvana and from KISS to the Foo Fighters, Mondo Domo blends musical emotion with guitar driven rock, resulting in a powerful,but not overpowering, experience.

Patric Ainsworth Born and raised in Lufkin, Patric handles the bass for the band, mixing a lowend crunch with just a hint of funk.
Tim Brookshire Also a native of Lufkin, Tim’s rhythm guitar prowess keeps the band’s alignment on track, with both tight chunking and sustaining tonality.
Jeremy Chance Originally from San Augustine, Jeremy lays down the sound on the skins. Artistic, yet aggressive, Jeremy’s drumming contributes to the band’s unique sound.
Robert Davis Born in Brooklyn, New York, Robert’s vocal range and ability highlight his diverse background. From his booming lows to his stirring highs, Robert’s voice provides the band’s persona.
Ted Perryman Another Lufkinite, Ted’s lead guitar chops are first class and unforgettable. His unique ability to blend a heavy edge with melodic tension provides the band’s personality.

With their debut album release pending in 2012, you can listen to seven songs that are in digital release now (available on iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody), all recorded in Austin. The band will be in Rosewood Studios in Tyler at the end of April, tracking additional material for the album.

Check them out on Facebook and at their website.

2011

2011 Entertainment

Friday- May 6th

5:30-7:30pm
Buffalo Nickel Band

The Buffalo Nickel is a local based country band located right here in Lufkin, Texas. The group started out about twenty years ago entertaining family and friends in a small garage in Diboll, Texas. From there, they began entertaining at benefits, anniversaries and wedding parties. Today they entertain at local VFW halls and lodges in the Lufkin and Nacogdoches areas. The band members are: Danny Bowman, lead vocalist - Lanny Carnley, steel and harmonica - Billy Mcclendon, vocals and lead guitar - Butch Carnley, fiddle and vocals - Keith Lewing, drums and Phil Thomas, bass guitar. Special guest singers are Hannah Bowman Pierce and Carol Carnley. The band plays everything from Bob Wills to Geroge Strait. Whether you like your music fast or slow their music will be sure to put you out on the dance floor.

7:30-9:30pm
The Lords of Denman

Lords of Denman is the chosen name of a new East Texas based Big Band with a difference. Organized and put together by well known band leader and singer/musician Dixon Shanks, the Lords of Denman intend to bring a new energy and sound to East Texas seldom experienced since the heydays of the late 50’s and early 60’s. Combined with some of the best songs and arrangements from the 70’s to the present time, the ‘Lords’ have a unique and impressive show that will please and impress audiences of all ages.

Shanks contributes his own brand of high energy, leadership and vocal abilities to a big band sound that is second to none. The ‘Lords’ consist of a full ensemble that includes saxes, trombones, trumpets and rhythm section of the best musicians in the area, from top college students to seasoned ‘road dog’ veterans. Lords of Denman creates a powerhouse of sound with arrangements from such diverse artists as: Chicago, Earth Wind and Fire, Tom Jones, R.E.M., The Black Crows, Michael Buble’ and many more….This band covers all the bases in a way that appeals to young and old.

The musicians all bring talent and experience that stems from a lifelong love and appreciation of music. Some members have played with world famous artists such as Sammy Davis Jr., Harry James, George Strait, Bob Hope and the list goes on and on. Others are involved with movie soundtracks, have recording contracts and still others continue current successful music careers.

Putting together a band that boasts having a keyboard man from the Air Force “Airmen of Note” and the lead trombone player from Guy Lombardo and Billy May and screaming trumpets and saxes from Stephen F. Austin University (not to mention the vocal talents of Dixon Shanks) means you are in for a treat.

The rhythm section of Lords of Denman is a combination of power and finesse. With two keyboards, two basses, one rockin’ guitar and a drummer…they are able to accomplish any style of music. Rock, swing, funk or jazz….nothing is too cool for these smooth operators.

Lords of Denman bring a high level of fun, entertainment and musicianship to any event!

9:30-10:30pm
Whiskey Myers

In a modest rent house in the small East Texas town of Elkhart, Texas, Cody Cannon and Cody Tate began to write music, only dreaming of the success that is sure to follow. They began to incorporate the talent and imagination of friend and guitarist John Jeffers. At that time, they called themselves Lucky Southern, though they had only three members. As time passed, with their inspiration mounting, they moved to Tyler, Texas. There they met up with Jeff Hogg, a mutual friend and drummer from Palestine, Texas, and Gary Brown, a bass guitarist who had grown up in Neches, Texas.

They decided to give it a real shot and came to be known as Whiskey Myers. Soon, the group was playing private parties on flatbed trailers in small towns around East Texas. The sound they emitted was something more unique than anyone had expected. From their first show in Montalba, Texas, a young Whiskey Myers was hooked on performing, and the crowds were hooked on them.

Saturday- May 7th

10am - 12pm
SFA Steel Drum Band

12 - 2pm
Bryan Harkness

An avid songwriter who draws his inspiration from everyday life experiences, Bryan feels his music most closely resembles that of Alan Jackson and George Strait.

“Just anything in life that sparks something,” says Bryan. “By using your imagination, you put yourself in that place or in someone else’s shoes.”

2 - 4pm
Tesa James

While she might be the descendant of the notorious bank-robbing outlaw Jesse James, country singer Tesa James is here to have her own chapter written about her music that the general public will fall in love with. Born and raised in the state of Louisiana, this southern gal happens to be one of those rare cases of a great artist who was discovered by accident. Not planning on a career as a country artist, Tesa just happened to be one of those that were caught singing her own tunes and was able to catch the ear of Grammy Award winning producer Ted Perlman.

“I'm so new to this music stuff and it’s been a crazy journey, but it's been fun. Growing up, I loved all kinds of music, and being down here in Southwest Louisiana, you have a lot of musical influences. I love Janis Joplin, The Beatles, and the first concert I ever went to in my life was Garth Brooks. I loved it and I never knew concerts could be that fun. I enjoy people's talent and look to share mine as well.”

Tesa James is no stranger to the stage. She has been singing since she was five. “My mom would haul my sisters, brother, and me down to the local nursing home to sing for the elderly people of Sulphur. Sometimes it was a really tough crowd,” she laughs as she remembers those happy years of her childhood. Her family is very close knit, as most southern families are. Three things in Tesa's life hold great importance: her faith, her family, and her music. “My family is very supportive of my career and does everything they can to help, so it’s been a blessing. This industry is really cool and never dreamed in a million years that I would have the opportunity to be a part of this, but I'm enjoying it.”

4 - 7pm
Route 4

Just like the headline above says! The Route 4 Band plays Classic Country at it’s best...and in Texas, that’s saying a mouthful! From George Jones to George Strait, sprinkle in a few polkas, line dances, even some good old rock ‘n’ roll from the 60s, 70s and 80s, and you’ve got a party band like no other. Country weddings, reunion parties, rodeos and fairs...it doesn’t matter. These 4 country boys will keep your guests on the dance floor.

7 - 9pm
Seth Candan

Seth started picking on the guitar early in high school, but at that time, it was just hobby to him. He was really moved by the “Texas Country” scene after attending a Fall Fandango concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. After that, he was hooked and eventually found himself singing along and playing to artists he saw that day. Seth found himself writing songs and playing every day and formed a band with some local classmates. With just a few originals and a hand full of covers, he soon landed his first gig! They started out as a house band, opening for some big name bands every Sunday at venue called Reno’s in Webster, Tx . After graduating, he moved to College Station and started doing some solo/acoustic acts at some local bars, all while attending school. By 19, during the summer before sophomore year in college, he released his first record, "Life", which consisted of 13 originals that he started writing between high school and leading into the end of his freshman year of college. Looking back, he sometimes feels that he rushed the record by putting every song he had written on it just to have an “all original CD.”

In the spring of 2010, he changed his live shows by getting a permanent band instead of contract musicians. Seth says that he is so blessed to have found such talented musicians, all from College Station, that have the same drive and passion as he does.

In 2010 he recorded his 2nd record, “The Aftermath” which was released Oct. 26 and was produced by Texas Music Award Nominee, Mike McClure. He feels it's a big change from the “Life” album. “The Aftermath” has a lot to do with how he’s lived, and experienced crazy and fun times away from home, in college, over these past three years. Seth says that his voice has matured, and this new record has a lot more groove. Their first single off the record is, "Alright". It was released to radio in mid October 2010, and is currently #37 on the Texas Music Chart.

9 - 10:30pm
Josh Abbott Band

A mere 57 seconds into the opening track of the Josh Abbott Band’s She’s Like Texas, you’re likely to be hooked. One intro, one verse and one chorus are pretty much all that’s required to recognize something special in the Texas-based act.

The winding riffs that open “Road Trippin” have a weighty Southern-rock air about them, though the actual instrumentation—fiddler Preston Wait and guitarist Gabe Hanson breeze through the lines in unison—hints faintly at the western-swing heritage deep in their Texas roots. Bass player Daniel Almodova and drummer Edward Villanueva set a powerful, chugging rhythmic foundation that walks the line between commercial country and raw honky tonks.