Asleep At The Wheel is the longest living western Swing band in USA. During their 40+ years of existence, they have won 9 Grammies and numerous other awards. They have toured all over USA many times, plus extensively in Europe. Now Dan Karlok has made a documentary about the band that will premiere this summer. A 34 minutes, unfinished version was shown at the SXSW yesterday.
Antone’s is the Austin Home of the Blues. Last night they had a free concert with Ray Wylie Hubbard and Billy Joe Shaver. Both artists are true and tested Texans (even if they are born elsewhere), and this is quite evident in their songs. Ray Wylie is the most pronounced, and he also comes forward as the master of words, and Billy Joe also gave his best performance afterwards. (Picture above: Billy Joe Shaver)
Dale Watson is one of the artists I like to see every time I am in Austin. He plays a gig at the Continental Club every Monday, and tonight I saw him and his band the Lone Stars there. Dale has been around the block some times in his life, but he has come down on both his feet, and got more true sorrow to sing about than many of his contemporaries.
The Norwegian band Hellbillies released their 13th CD two weeks ago to great reviews in newspapers and blogs. Some have held this as their best CD so far. Saturday night they held their 20 year anniversary concert as a recording band at a sold out Oslo Spektrum together with some good artist friends.
Brad Paisley is one of the most celebrated newer country artists. He is also more rocky than many of his colleagues on the country scene. Last night he played Oslo Spektrum for an enthusiastic audience of between 6 and 7000.
Hellbillies have been Norway’s leading country rock band for 20 years. During these years they have played 1500 concerts and on Monday they will release their 13th album, aptly called “Tretten” (Thirteen). (Picture: Aslag and Lars Haavard Haugen 2011)
The headline looks like a contradicion in terms, but americana music is well rooted in Norway. Now the organisation Norsk Americana Forum is established, and their goal is to promote americana music in Norway and to make more people aware of this music.
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