Tristan Prettyman - Music Tuesdays

Tristan Prettyman was introduced to me about 2 years ago now.  Her last album, “Twenty-Three”, was a standard play in the old CD player for a lot of that time.  Prettyman’s newest album is called “Hello” and it has gotten the same amount of plays.  She has a laid back California surfer style that leads to some great music about relationships.  The album is clean and crafty.  If you enjoy Colbie Colliat or Tift Merritt, “Hello” will be a great purchase.

Dave Barnes - Music Tuesdays

This week the pick is Dave Barnes.  This summer a few folks asked me to suggest a few artists that I really like.  The catch is finding something that is completely appropriate to suggest to an all-ages crowd.  Dave Barnes fits this description very well.

About 5 years ago some friends and I went to the Handlebar in Greenville to hear a new artist named Marc Broussard.  There were about 20 folks at the show and we had some time to talk to Marc afterwards.  I asked for his booking information to see about getting him to come to Clemson and he told me that his friend Dave Barnes would probably be a better fit.  He had a couple of Barnes’ demo albums and we took a listen…..

That album was called “Two, Then Three” and it was awesome.  Not only can this guy play guitar well, but his voice is incredible.  I have yet to hear another white guy with vocal runs as smooth as Dave Barnes.  His song-writing is also pretty dang good.  I’ve seen Barnes in concert a few times now and I am amazed every time.  You have got to check him out next time he comes near.  He has to be one of the funniest performers I have ever seen.

Barnes’ new album is called “Me & You & The World”.  Although, I won’t give this album as strong a recommendation as “Chasing Mississippi” or “Brother, Bring the Sun”, it is still a great album.  The new version of “Until You” and the song “Someday” are two of my favorites.  The subject matter of this album is a little confusing.  Many of the songs seem to say, “I’m married. I’m married now. Did I mention I’m married?” But, “10,000 Children” takes on a different subject completely and really makes the album a great purchase.  You should check out this new album, and purchase ALL the old ones.

-JRC

Pick up the album on itunes.