1100 Springs will be our next featured artist, and they will be joining us for one of our listening parties and to chat about the new album...or anything else that pops up...hope you will join us!

Eleven Hundred Springs have been kicking around the Texas Music scene for a decade or more. Led by Matt Hillyer, the group from Dallas has carved out their own niche in this crowded scene. They have managed to combine all the best elements of the Bakersfield, Red Dirt, Texas, rockabilly, and even a smidge of punk to create something all their own. With the release of their latest and most buzzed about album, Country Jam, I took the opportunity to pick Matt the Cat's brain about their career and music in general. Check out the latest edition of 20 Questions with Eleven Hundred Springs!

1. What’s new and exciting with 1100 Springs?

We just released our new record produced by Lloyd Maines. We’ve been traveling the country extensively playing to new and exciting audiences. Just got back from the west coast two weeks ago. That was lots of fun.


2. Your musical style has a definite throwback sound to it. How did you develop that sound? What are you main influences?

Everyone in the group shares a love and knowledge of classic country music. For me personally, Buddy Holly and Hank Williams were the two most influential artists. I dissected rockabilly and country for what they were - hillbilly blues. From there, I dug deeper into country, blues, jazz, rock and roll, etc.




3. Name association:


-Dale Watson-Classic country guru.

-Jason Boland-My friend.

-Billy Joe Shaver-A prophet.

-Jack Ingram-Fun to hang with.

-Doug Moreland-Renaissance man.

-Mike Mancy-Hardworking.

-Pat Green-A man of the people .


4. You and your bassist, Steve Berg, have been friends and collaborators since your teen years. Did you envision making a career out of music as teens? Or, is it something that just evolved and one day you realized “Hey, we’re pretty good at this!” ?

I always knew music was it from day one. I can’t speak for Steve, but I sure am glad we’re still playing together. Having your best friend to share your love for music on stage creates miracles every night.


5. The Dallas-Ft. Worth area has a number of radio stations that support this kind of music. Do you think that has helped cultivate your large Dallas area fanbase? If you were in charge of one of the stations for a day, what would you play?

Without radio support, our lives would be much more difficult. There are some great people supporting great music out there. I won’t pretend for a second that I could do any better than what local stations are already playing. I would probably get fired my first week…as Texas pyschobilly doesn’t quite fit the local airwaves. (laughs)


6. In your early days you did quite a bit of touring with rock bands like the Toadies and Tripping Daisy. How did the rock crowds react to rockabilly music?

We were always like a breath of fresh air to those audiences. We fit right in. It might have sounded a little different, but we rocked just as hard as anyone out there.




7. Later on, Mark Reznicek of the Toadies would become your drummer. How did his addition influence your music and songwriting?

Believe it or not, it made us more country. He can play so straight ahead and simple. That’s what we wanted. He approaches it the same way Phil Rudd of AC/DC would. I love it…and I love Mark.


8. In addition to Mark, the band includes renowned fiddler Jordan Hendrix and steel player Danny Crelin. Is this the best line-up you’ve had in Eleven Hondo? And, how is this line-up different from past groupings?

I won’t even start to say anything remotely disparaging about any of the excellent musicians who have honored us by gracing the stage and studio to make music together, but I do feel that we’re very focused now. These are some great guys. I’m proud to know them and jam with ‘em.


9. Your fans are very passionate and dedicated. What’s the craziest thing you’ve seen one of them do?

I’ve seen more than one with an Eleven Hundred Springs tattoo...enough said. (laughs)




10. Favorite touring memories of the following towns and clubs:

-New Braunfels-The first time we ever headlined Gruene Hall is a memory that will always stand out. We had a big party back at the hotel with all our friends.


-Houston-There were some friends in from California one night at the Armadillo Palace. They came back to the hotel. We sang and drank and told jokes ‘til the sun came up.


-Lubbock-Ryan Bingham and Doug Moreland were in town for a gig at another club, but we were all at the same hotel. We passed around the guitar and messed up the rooms rock star style. (laughs)

-Stephenville -We tried to go to an after hours party but wound up driving in circles.

-Denton-There have been too many legendary house parties there to pick just one…but if I have to…(laughs). The one that stands out the most was the one that broke my marijuana cherry. I was an embarrassment, but I sure had fun! (laughs)

-Austin-I had a really fun birthday party at Antone’s a couple of years ago.

-Oklahoma City-We had hotel jam there that no one should have been playing music at. Nobody was together enough to sound good, but we thought we were doing great at the time!

-Kansas City-We did a really cool show there with Wayne Hancock recently. He’s one of my favorites. The people there love Texas music too. They make you feel so at home.

-Continental Club-Backing up Ronnie Dawson at the Continental Club in’94. He was amazing.

-White Elephant-Last year, in 2007, was the first time we’d been there in years. The crowd was on fire and we took so much from that. It was a lot of fun. We had dinner at the Lonesome Dove beforehand. We ate like kings and did a really fun show.

-Golden Light-We were coming back from a west coast run, and no matter how much fun you have traveling out of state it always feels great to come back to Texas. The people at the Golden Light have always been so nice. It was just the welcome home we needed. Pass that Thunderbird up to the stage!

-Floore’s Country Store-Everytime we’ve played there before our river trips has been a blast. People are in such a fun mood in preparation for the river.




11. Related to that question, you guys have a huge following outside the state of Texas. How long have you been touring in other areas? How long did it take you to make headway in other regions? What are the differences in the audiences here at home versus abroad?


People love Texas music everywhere you go. Out of state, crowds are hungry for our flavor. Depending on which market you’re talking about, we’re still trying to make headway. You have to continue to work these places to see results. There’s nothing like the feeling of looking into an audience and seeing somebody who’s witnessing something they’ve never seen. That’s the difference. People here at home grew up with it. Out there it’s something fresh.


12. Last Valentine’s Day, you became a traveling sing-o-gram across the DFW Metroplex. What was that experience like? Who developed that idea? Do you plan to do it again?

That was a lot of fun, and a lot of work for one day. I had the idea as I was trying to figure out what to get my valentine. I thought of slipping a little bread to one of my singing buddies to surprise her at work . Then a light turned on. Maybe I could make the money. I actually did this in high school. They called it a Val – o – gram. You had to audition in the lunch room…then people bought you to go around to different classrooms and serenade their valentines…I did anything to get out of class! (laughs) Anyway, I had my doubts, that it might have been too cheesy of an idea. Maybe it was, but people loved it. Place your orders for ’09 now!

13. In 2004, you signed with Palo Duro Records after doing the independent thing for so many years. How has having label support helped? Do you have creative freedom or is there a label exec giving notes?

In today's music world, we will see if having a label helps. This new record is our best yet and radio all over has expressed nice interest in it. We will see...


14. You’ve been hitting stages since you were a teen, starting with Reverend Horton Heat. And, Eleven Hondo’s calling card is your blistering live show. What makes a good gig for you? What makes a bad gig?


When the crowd is dying for you to entertain them it’s really good. The love back and forth can’t be matched. When for reasons unexplained you can’t connect, it’s frustrating. It’s still good though. The worst day on this job is still pretty damn good.


15. Stories behind the following songs:


-Gina From San Jose -Steve came to me with most of the lyrics finished. I added some things, but that was mainly him.


-Why You Been Gone So Long -Mickey Newberry wrote it, but it was introduced to me by Ronnie Dawson. He used to warm up back stage with it. The first I heard it, he and Mac Curtis were harmonizing on it backstage. It was a magic moment between two Texas legends, and I was a fly on the wall.

-See You In the Next Life -I wrote it after my high school girlfriend and I broke up. The details are specific to my experience, but the sentiment is shared by many.


-Thunderbird Will Do Just Fine -I was in full party mode then, and I pretty much documented any given day for me. I recommend chilling Thunderbird before drinking it (laughs). I could have also substituted St. Ide’s Malt liquor in that song if I’d wanted too.

-Can’t Win For Losing -It’s about money getting in the way of friendship. I had an argument with someone over money and that’s what came out.

-Long Haired Tattooed Hippies -I wrote it after we did a support slot for Pat Green at Gruene Hall. We were just getting started and Pat was really cool to us, but no one knew who we were. So, when the first saw us they didn’t know what to think…probably still don’t (laughs).

-Kick Me When I’m Down -Our old steel player, Aaron Wynne wrote that one. We recorded it at Chris Claridy’s house. It has always been one of my favorites.

-A Straighter Line -Aaron, Chris and I wrote it in southern California. I woke up early with the hook in my head. I went out on the porch and worked it out. We had it finished by breakfast.


-Northside Blues -Steve and I wrote this after someone stole our gear in San Antonio. He mentioned that it would be cool if we had a song that talked about all the cool Texas towns. We took it from there




16. You attended the same high school as Norah Jones and Erykah Badu among others. That’s a lot of talent coming from one place. Were you in school with anyone that just blew your mind away with their talent that didn’t “make it”?

I was blown away everyday by the talented kids there. I learned so much more from them than I ever did from the teachers. I haven’t kept up with everyone. I will say that it takes more than talent to make it in this business. You’ve got to have a thick skin and a serious drive to get by. Most people don’t stick with it. Even some of the most talented drop out.


17. What’s the worst day job you ever suffered through in order to support your music?


I worked in a warehouse doing shipping and receiving…it sucked! (laughs)


18. Rapid fire:

-Frisco or Soutlake? Do you mean San Francisco? It’s a beautiful city. (laughs)

-Favorite bar to hang at?-A Step Up

-Toadies or Burden Brothers?-Why must I choose? I’ll stand with my bandmate and say Toadies.

-Favorite Mexican food joint?-Casa Navarro off Marsh Lane in North Dallas…it is amazing.

19. Favorite George Strait song.

“Unwound“


20. What do you see as the main difference between the music you’re making and the stuff you hear on mainstream radio?

We’re trying desperately to get back to the heart and soul of country music. You’ve got to get the blues back in to it. That heartfelt feeling that rings true for everyone. We’re trying to keep the formula simple in hopes it will be classic…or at least pay tribute to something classic.

For all things 1100 Springs click here!

Brad's Corner is a monthly commentary written by Brad about whatever he feels like. It's supposed to be funny, interesting and thought provoking, but most geniuses are misunderstood. Check out the May 2008 edition of Brad's Corner and see what's on his mind.

What it is all about...

As I sat down to write this month, I couldn’t shake something I’d witnessed at LJT’s festival last month. I talked about it in my LJT Wrap Up article, but being that it was over 6,000 words, I figured many folks may have missed it. So, I decided to take the excerpt of what has stuck in my mind and share it with everyone for May’s Brad’s Corner.

I’ve had my fair share of magic via music. It has caused happy and sad tears in my life…gotten me through tough times, reminded me of the best times and given me hope for the future.

I’m not sure I’ve ever experienced something that managed to do all that at once.

Rusty’s band was plugged in and ready to go as one of my musical heroes struggled to make it to the mic. After a rousing introduction courtesy of John Hollinger, Rusty hit the stage. And just like the night before, you could tell the energy from the crowd was going to be what kept him going.

Cancer is a terrible disease that effects too many in too many ways.

But on Saturday April 26 about 4PM in that field in Stephenville, it was not going to get Rusty Wier down. As he leaned into the mic for the first time he said, with tears rolling down his face, “Three months ago they told me I had one month to live…and I’m still here…thank God for angels, Jesus, and you all for being here.” The first song he kicked into was “Mama, I Don’t Wanna Lay This Guitar Down”. The lyrics foreshadowed the set.

No Rusty’s voice wasn’t as strong as it had been in years past. The bottle of tequila wasn’t present for “Quervo’s Gold”…but his smile and his spirit, two things he always took with him everywhere, were undeterred. As he tore through the songs and jokes we’d all heard a thousand times before, everyone began to realize just how special what we were witnessing was.

Normally, at these big festival shows, all the other artists are too busy or consider themselves too important to watch the other acts. Just as the night before, everyone dropped whatever they were doing and one glance at the sidestage proved that it was full of artists watching one of their heroes one last time. By the time he reached his signature song, “Don’t It Make You Wanna Dance?” there was no long winded intro about Chris LeDoux and Bonnie Rait, just a knowing smile.

As the song reached its climax there were people everywhere just clapping, smiling, crying and doffing their hats to the man that has influenced so many and paved so many of the roads that all of the acts we dig so much travel down today.

As the last note drifted out of the speakers, and Rusty was being helped off stage a large chant of “Rusty! Rusty!” erupted across the thousands of outstretched arms and faces in attendance. Rusty spun around, sunk his head, soaked up the last bit of energy he had and worked his way back to center stage. He leaned back into the mic and repeated his desire that we thank God and angels for his being there…and then showcasing his signature sense of humor, he grinned while saying “Oh, and Larry Joe Taylor too.”

It was then that he launched into his gospel tinged “I Stood Up”, and caused there not to be a dry eye anywhere. As he reached the second chorus, he was surrounded by all the artists who had been standing sidestage…they sang harmony and hugged Rusty as they sang a refrain of “I stood up…I stood with Jesus”.

Oftentimes in this scene we use the analogy that we’re going to church when referencing a certain artist or show. However, this was by far the most powerful musical experience I’ve ever been a part of.

We all wanted him to stay on that stage forever that afternoon…we didn’t want to admit that it was over. But, after the tears dried away, I remembered that he’ll always live on.

And I’ll always remember this show.

That is what I wrote in the LJT Wrap Up piece, and I feel compelled to elaborate. Watching one of your musical heroes give what very well could be their final performance on a big stage is quite unnerving. It is a very melancholy feeling. Of course, you feel sad, but you also have tinges of pride and happiness. Proud that you were able to witness such an event and career. And, happy that the music has touched your life so much. This is not an obituary for Rusty, because I believe angels, Jesus, miracles and music will continue to co-mingle and help Rusty be Rusty for much longer.

I remember looking over at my friends standing beside me in the midst of the waves of emotion and looking up at the stage...around at all the people enraptured with the moment, the gorgeous blue Texas sky and remarking...."This is what it is all about." Meaning, music is supposed to mean something. It is not just a soundtrack to our lives. It is our lives. And it had been Rusty's life for many, many years. That afternoon was definitely what it is all about. I hope you experience something like that at some point in your lifetime too.

MINOR CHORDS:

-The build up to the 20th Annual LJTs seemed to last for years, and the good times I had out there this year will stay with me for years. This was the most memorable and fun one I’ve been to in a decade.

-I am only 28 years old, but each Sunday when I retreat home from LJTs, I feel like a 90 year old man. God bless our brothers and sisters traveling up and down the highway every week. It is not a glamorous life, but it is one they love.

-Seems like people are starting to join me on the Josh Grider bandwagon, and that makes me happy.

-I am ready for the presidential election to be over already…and we’re still 6 months away…and I enjoy watching politics. In modern America, the coverage is more like the coverage of a sporting event.

-So, the Pacman Jones trade went through. I wonder if Jerry would’ve been so quick to pull the trigger on that if it had been a guy with a regular name and no publicity that had been making it rain.

-The Love Shack in Fort Worth has better burgers than Adair’s…there I said it.

-The Rangers continue to depress me. I can’t even stand to watch the games this year. I’ve been keeping up with other teams just as much due to my fantasy baseball league. Sad thing is, my fantasy team is doing worse than the Rangers.

-Steve Rice and Drew Kennedy need to enter Last Comic Standing and just tell stories.

-I keep running into people who aren’t sure where the music biz as a whole is headed. Do people still want to buy cd’s? Do we go all digital? How do you break a new artist? I’m not sure where everything will fall just yet, but I have some ideas…and I think I’ll try and elaborate on it for June’s corner…provided that nothing else jumps out of my brain as a better idea.

-Grad school is very stressful around finals time.

-This month’s recommended film: Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Despite the unpleasant sight that pops up early on in the film, this is a hilarious little movie that has fallen off the Apatow tree.

-This month’s recommended album: Adam Carroll-Old Town Rock and Roll. Adam Carroll is the ultimate songwriter’s songwriter. His peers hold him in such high regard that it is almost silly. Yet, to most people in this scene, he’s only known as the guy who sang “Plastic Girl” with Randy Rogers on the Like It Used To Be Album. However, with this new record, Carroll puts his stamp back on the Americana scene with a signature record featuring a bit more punched up production and more wit than should be allowed in one human being. I have a longer review of this record that will be featured in the next issue of LoneStarMusic magazine.

-“Of all the things I’ve lost, I miss my mind the most.”-Mark Twain

We have teamed up with Radio Free Texas to give away some tickets to their RockFloat show in New Braunfels on May 24. The show features sets by: No Justice, Jason Allen, Brandon Jenkins and more. It will be held at Whitewater Amphitheater. If you would like to attend, just post in the contest thread and we will draw several winners at random! Get to postin'!

Contest Thread-Enter Here

Even Mother Nature decided she wasn’t going to miss the 20th edition of LJT’s Texas Music Festival. Over 33,000 people took in the festival as storms on Wednesday evening and a blustery cold front late Saturday night provided for unpleasant bookends this year. Yet, as always, the music and the memories triumphed over it all to produce one of my favorite LJTs in over a decade of attendance.

(More photos will be added as I collect them.)

I want to thank Larry Joe, Sherry, Zack, Leigh Ann, and Ben along with their entire staff for being such great hosts yet again. Even when things popped up like bad weather or people crashing the office trying to score credentials they handled it with grace and aplomb. They went out of their way to accommodate all of us from Galleywinter, Mandatory and several other media outlets. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to adapt to the curveballs the weather threw at me quite as easily. The weather put a wrench in my live blogging plans and gave me ideas for next year. One of those being the idea that Shayne Hollinger and I need to broadcast from the helicopter over the festival and give traffic updates on the mules, gators and golf carts.

Each year after I return home from the LJT fest, I take a couple days to compile my thoughts and give you an insider’s view on what happened over the course of the best days for Texas Music each year. It is always a long read, and for that I apologize, but I am trying to cram everything cool that happened into one article. I hope you enjoy!

Below are the memories, ramblings and stories that stick out the most from the weeklong experience.

WEDNESDAY

While most of my crew headed out first thing Wednesday morning, I was the unlucky soul who had to plug away at the day job prior to heading up to the musical nirvana that is Melody Mountain Ranch for several days each April. I hitched a ride with some neighbors of mine who were also meeting friends up there. Thankfully, I had taken my clothes, guitar, supplies and other belongings and loaded them in our RV the night before; so that basically, all I had to do was deliver myself to the festival. My buddies had gotten there early and had everything set up, which was awesome because I got there a little later than I intended.

My first stop was a trip to the office to pick up my credentials (thanks again to the Taylors and Ben!) and meander over to the Mandatory FM Compound which would be my second base of operations in addition to our campsite.



No sooner than I hop on board an ATV with Shayne and AnnaBeth Hollinger to venture backstage and scope things out for the Ragweed and Chris Knight sets, we hear a report from Zack come over Ben’s radio that says “Bad weather will be here in about five minutes…it will just be blowing through…and will be out of here in about fifteen minutes. Shouldn’t take long, we’ll be able to treat this just like a set change.” Those five minutes suddenly shrunk to 120 seconds. Just as Zack’s radio communication ended, I felt a rain drop and a burst of cool air. The skyline looked like a horror movie and lightning was everywhere. Some poor radio personality from the Ranch was directed onstage to inform the crowd about what was going on. That’s a job I would never want…telling thousands of concert-goers bad weather is about to cramp their style. As we rolled back into the Mandatory Compound we feverishly began trying to tear down the Mandatory stage to save it from the strong winds headed our way. After a few minutes in the downpour we decided that the lightning was a bit too close for comfort so we headed into an RV to wait it out.

Because, it was only going to last for about twenty minutes, right?

That forecast turned out to be completely wrong. As we sat and listened to the radio, and heard the comically timed “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” by CCR unfurl from the speakers of Mandatory’s playlist, we received a phone call that tornadoes were headed our way and to take cover or get the hell out of dodge. While all this was going on, hundreds of festival goers had been herded under the metal awnings and shelter provided by the Palo Duro Acoustic Stage area. Debauchery ensued for some, as we had streakers and flashers passing their rain-soaked time.

We loaded into the Hollinger’s vehicle like clowns in a clown car and headed for John and Pamela’s to wait it out. Despite being pounded by what seemed like bowling ball size hail on the way, we arrived at our destination no worse for wear. We drank while alternately telling stories, texting friends to check their whereabouts, and watching UFO documentaries and a Rangers game. Upon our arrival, the Rangers were only behind 9 to 6. Five minutes later they were down 18 to 6. This tragic turn of events in the game seemed to symbolize how the evening was going to be a complete waste. Unintentional comedy was found in the form of some Weather Channel meteorologists who had extremely small heads and equally strange wardrobe taste. After a couple hours and a stop at the convenience store for some heat lamp grub, we headed back to the festival grounds.

We encountered people still arriving as though nothing had happened, and their die-hard spirit seemed to signify what makes this event so unique and special. There was water and mud everywhere. Nobody was sure what was actually going to happen…would there be music or not?

That’s when you have to thank God for the Tejas Brothers.

Due to the amount of water that poured on instruments and equipment, everything had to be moved to the cramped confines of the Palo Duro Stage. This turned out to be a cool blessing in disguise as the night winds dried out the ground, a first-class jam session unfolded onstage. The aforementioned Tejas Bros kept the crowd entertained during the long lull of stop and go and venue changes.

Major props to the sound crew for even getting a show off the ground considering the elements.

Slowly the Tejas Bros were joined by Larry Joe himself and a little band called Cross Canadian Ragweed. Next thing you know LJT was behind a drum kit, the accordion riffs of the Tejas boys were blending with the red dirt rock of Ragweed and something amazing was definitely happening.

Sadly, Chris Knight was unable to join in due to the weather circumstances causing him to leave early so he wouldn’t miss his gig the next night.

But, for those that stayed it turned into something truly magical.

Cody mentioned onstage that they had been told the gig was cancelled because of the weather so they started partying a little harder than normal on the bus, only to find out that the gig was still in fact on in one form or another. So, he apologized if things were a little rougher around the edges than normal. Yet, I think that’s what I enjoyed about it.

The whole jam session was organic.

Everything was mostly cover songs…everyone was sharing equipment (thanks again to the Tejas Bros!) and taking this music back to its roots. The jamming and experimentation didn’t end until nearly 1AM. Normally, this is just the prime time for the infamous campfire sessions, but after all everyone had been through, most people called it a night…including me.

THURSDAY

Thursday morning brought an early rise and beautiful weather peaking through the windows of the RV. I was especially looking forward to today because the rest of our crew was arriving, including Drew Kennedy and Josh Grider. After a hot shower and a great breakfast (thanks to Dave!), I hit up the acoustic stage area to survey the damage from the night before in the daylight.



I don’t recall who was playing at the time, but I remember peeking around the corner of vendor row toward the mainstage and hearing the “Star Spangled Banner” blaring from onstage.

Upon further inspection, it was Geoffrey Hill of the RRB inspired by the landscape of mud, tents and the crowd to pull a Hendrix. After realizing he was rocking out a little too loud and hard for sound check, he hopped offstage where Dickey and I directed him and Johnny Chops to a hearty game of washers over at Crazy Ray’s Compound. Not long after, Brady Black breezed by and decided he would defend his washers crown.



Grider was a LJT rookie, and was overwhelmed upon arrival. The throngs of music fans made him giddy. I gave him a brief lay of the land and tour of his surroundings before we headed up to watch some of the sets that day.

The first person we caught was Richard Leigh. Guys like Richard Leigh epitomize what LJTs festival is about. He is a songwriter’s songwriter. A guy you may not know by name, but after a few song introductions of “Here’s a song I wrote back in ’78 for …….” you realize you are in the presence of musical greatness. Richard’s song credits include “Don’t It Make Your Brown Eyes Blue”, “Somewhere in My Broken Heart”, “The Greatest Man I Never Knew”, and “Life’s Highway” among others! I must mention that on top of being this incredible songwriter, Richard is the best dressed person at the festival each year. On this day, he was sporting a brown 3 piece suit, complete with a pocket watch.

He was the envy of every artist I talked to.

They all wanted his life…be able to come play cool shows like LJTs because they felt like it, not because they had to; wear nice threads and have big name artists record their tunes while they have fun doing whatever they please.

Owen Temple was up next. Owen has been a favorite of mine as long I’ve been going to this festival. I am so glad he is back down here in Texas and playing music. It was quite a delight to hear all the old favorites mixed with the fantastic new stuff off his latest record. I had heard that he would be joined by his entire band in acoustic format, but it turned out to just be Owen…and that was more than alright. Owen’s voice sounded rested and fresh; plus his vantage point of having been at this latest incarnation of the Texas Music scene from the get go provided some really cool stories and banter in between songs.

Soon after Owen was finished, we rambled over to the Coca Cola mainstage to find it cranked up in full effect for the first time with Johnny Cooper. This kid is more impressive each time I hear him. His backing band of hired guns seemed to enjoy playing for such a large crowd, and Johnny didn’t let the big stage intimidate him. His voice was good and the grooves were rolling…he got so caught up in the moment, that at one pointed he ripped his aviators off his head and chunked them into the rocking crowd below.

After this short set, we ventured around to see who we would run into…low and behold I found Randy Rogers and Dan McDonald. We hung out for quite a while in the bus, discussing the Pacman Jones trade and Randy’s new album. Over the last few months, I’ve heard the cuts live many times, several of the rough mixes and then finally out at LJTs I got to hear some of the final drafts as it were.

Randy, Jason Boland and I began discussing festivals and how cool this one really and truly is. From the dedication of the attendees to the organization of the promoters. Soon thereafter, it was about time for everyone to start getting their game faces on…so I headed up the ramp to side stage left to catch what was left of Brandon Rhyder’s set and settle in for Boland and Randy.

As Rhyder closed out his set, I remember remarking to myself that I’d never heard that large of a crowd hold notes out for that long as they sang along with Rhyder’s soaring voice.

Jason Boland bounded up the ramp and onto the stage to join The Stragglers with more conviction and confidence than I’ve seen from him in years. The best honky tonk band in America managed to yet again translate their style and unleash their sounds on a large crowd. The set was full of the familiar, and it was refreshing to see them blast right through hit after hit and have so much fun while doing it. The energy coming off the crowd at this point was amazing, and it all seemed to be building toward the evening’s climax of Randy Rogers Band.

The guys of the RRB are now LJTs veterans. After spending the day taking it all in via ATVs and walking around, the guys were primed by showtime. With Randy donning a Rangers jersey reminiscent of Bleu Edmondson at the ’02 festival when he jammed with Ragweed, the boys tore through a classic RRB set. Gigging so much over the past few years has added incredible strength to Randy’s vocals…and the band is an incredibly well-oiled machine. The set mixed in brand new with the slightly new.



But, the highlight for me was seeing that the band’s cover of Toadies’ “Tyler” made its way into the set. This is one of the greatest rock songs to ever come out of Texas, by a band that Randy, myself and many of the concert goers in our generation share an affinity for. The band has been playing it sporadically, but it fit right at home bouncing off the fields of Melody Mountain Ranch.

By the time the RRB guys had loaded off stage, it was time for the first group of Mandatory FM Stage Acoustic sets to begin. The weather had cancelled Wednesday night’s show, and the Hollinger’s had a stacked deck of eager musicians ready to jam…organic and completely unplugged.

This is the ultimate listening room.

Buzz Cason kicked things off by filming two songs for a tv show he was producing. Like Richard Leigh, you may not know the name Buzz Cason, but you certainly know his songs. These include “Soldier of Love” which has been covered by both the Beatles and Pearl Jam, “Love’s the Only House” made famous by Martina McBride and many others. After Buzz finished his two tunes to the delight of the rather large crowd it was time for one of the musical highlights of my LJTs 2008 experience.

The fivesome that would lead to what Josh Grider would term a “harmony explosion” hopped onstage.



This group consisted of Grider, Drew Kennedy, Joey Green, Owen Temple and James Hertless from Brandon Rhyder’s band. After a couple rounds through, DK played a new tune called “Caroline” that was one of the best things he’s ever written. I’ll spare you the details of the song, and let him explain it himself at the next show of his you hit up. Grider had fun tooling around with some new stuff. Owen played some of the older tunes he didn’t get to earlier in the day. And, Hertless provided stellar high harmony work for each artist. There were cover songs of all kind including gospel, country and rock. Inspired by intoxication or the moment, I’m still not sure which…Grider decided they should do an accapella version of “Seven Bridges Road”…but make it awesome unlike 99% of the versions of that song you hear at karaoke bars. It was goosebump inducingly good. Afterwards, Drew said he felt like he was the bass singer in Oak Ridge Boys.

As the Mandatory Stage wound down, we found our way over to Crazy Ray’s, a path we would repeat throughout the week.

We arrived to find The Stragglers in the middle of a bluegrass jam.



Unable to not participate, Grider picked up a guitar from a bystander and joined in to lead a blistering version of “Foggy Mountain Breakdown”.

After a few moments taking all this in, we all hopped in an ATV to find the hayride that the Randy Rogers Band was jamming on. Not far down the road, we crossed paths with the hayride. We noticed Brady and others on the trailer with instruments in hand…but strangely missing was Randy himself.

Shayne made a quick u-turn to follow the hayride when all of a sudden out of the shadows, Randy shot out on a bicycle. As he chased us and made the caboose on our music caravan of tractor, trailer, ATV and now bicycle…he looked like the witch in Wizard of Oz pedaling frantically to keep up. Once we got to a stopping point, we all took turns recreating the movie Rad on a gravel road that led back to Crazy Ray’s.

The span from RRB exiting the stage and going to bed at around 5AM was one of the best times I’ve ever had out at LJTs or anywhere. Lots of laughter and great music…two of my favorite things.

FRIDAY

One thing we failed to realize at 5AM as we were winding down a night of epic LJT fun, was that Grider’s official festival set was at the unspeakably early hour of noon on the acoustic stage. I seemed to realize this about 9AM after just a couple hours of shuteye, and stumbled out of the RV to find most everyone beginning to stir except Mr. Grider. We all decided it would be best to let him sleep for a while and then wake him up by 10:30AM if he was still snoozing. The appointed time rolled around, and I had already showered and eaten breakfast. By now Josh was stirring and contemplating how he was going to pull off a show at noon after singing and playing all night long.

His voice was strained and his guitar was out of tune from thinking he was Bill Monroe at 3AM. Yet, as our entire group sat there and discussed the events of the previous day, I could tell that Josh was getting into show mode. He kept chugging water and clearing his throat. About the time we decided it was time to head to the stage, we started walking up there with guitars and pedal box in hand. About half way I asked him if he had brought any cd’s to sell. He was like “Can I sell those here? I only brought one box, I think.” After setting him straight on the fact that not only could he sell them, but that he probably would, I went back to the van to retrieve them. After finding out where to deliver the cd’s at the merch tent, we settled in for what we still weren’t sure would be the best Grider show we’d ever seen.

But, man, did Josh Grider ever prove us wrong. Josh has been a good friend and I’ve loved his music for many years, yet I’ve never been prouder of him than I was on this day. I don’t ever recall as quiet or big of a crowd at the noon LJT shows. Josh had them from the first note, and despite the fact that he was having to tune his beat up Gibson Songwriter after each song, you’d never had known about the musical journey he’d had in the last 12 hours.



By the time Josh got to “Crazy Like You” and invited Drew up to sing harmony with him, the entire crowd was in his hand. Hearing hundreds of people sing along gave me goosebumps and feel like I was watching my child take their first steps or ride a bike for the first time.



Before Josh could even finish his set, there was a line snaking around the merch tent to buy his record. After wrapping up his set, Josh received a standing ovation and got called out for an encore. Something that does not happen very often at this stage. The people who attend the shows on the Palo Duro Acoustic Stage are serious music fans that have seen a lot and know how to weed through crap. Despite 80% of them probably never even having heard of Josh, they were singing along by the end of the show.

As Susan Gibson began a great set, Josh was still over at the merch tent signing autographs and taking pictures…he did that until they sold out of all of his cd’s. The one box he had brought was sold out in a matter of minutes.

Josh was the hit of the festival and talk of it for the rest of the weekend.

I was running on empty so I headed to my friend Adam’s RV that we nicknamed the cave because the air conditioning kept it so cold and perfect for sleeping. My plan was to make it back to the acoustic stage in time for South Austin Jug Band, but I drifted off for a couple hours, only to awake to the sounds of fiddles and realize that I’d missed their set. I heard from more than one person that it was one of the coolest shows all weekend, and I’m upset I missed it.

After cleaning up and eating, I headed back to the Coca Cola mainstage area to hear Band of Heathens kick off the show. They played our Galleywinter SXSW Showcase and are one of the most buzzed about bands in our scene right now along with Ryan Bingham and Adam Hood. I was glad to see them on the bill. They didn’t disappoint, and I think they earned themselves several new fans. Their set was a throwback to the 70’s and was a perfect complement to the festival.

Following them was the double whammy of No Justice and Bart Crow. Much like myself, Bart Crow has been attending the festival for years prior to be invited onto the mainstage bill. I’ll never perform on a mainstage anywhere, but I could totally feel and understand where Bart was coming from. He was so excited to be up there that it was infectious, like his music. I’ve heard musical snobs harp on Bart for making music that is too simple…but sometimes that’s the point. If it gets people singing and they remember it, then it is a good song.

While Bart was playing, I ran into Wade Bowen. He too has been to LJTs to hang out, but never to officially perform. He said he had a rough night the night before at Calf Fry in Stillwater, but that the adrenaline of just being at LJTs was amping him up to put on a memorable show. And memorable it was. When WB and the boys hit the stage, they put the hammer down from the first note.



I knew from the moment I glanced at the set list that it was going to be a good show…and it was fantastic. Wade had, what I think was, the best set of the festival on the mainstage. The timing was right, the weather was perfect, and the crowd was in full participation. Everything seemed to line up right for him, and I was glad he got to experience it.

While waiting for Stoney to start, we hung out on Wade’s bus and talked about how cool his set had been. We were joined by Steve Rice from No Justice, who I hadn’t ever spent much time around previously other than watching him perform and interviewing him one time. But after just five minutes around him, I’m convinced he is the funniest guy in the Texas/Red Dirt scene. Most of our conversation is not fit to print, but he definitely added to my LJTs enjoyment.

Stoney LaRue was now locked and loaded with his Arsenals, including Jeremey Watkins back on the fiddle. It had been a while since I’d seen a Stoney show, and not much has changed. Stoney is still a masterful singer and guitar player who knows how to put the crowd on his back and take them to places they didn’t know they’d like to visit.

On top of how cool it was to see Stoney mastering the big stage, he pulled out one of the classiest moves I’ve ever seen a musician in our scene do. He called up the gravely ill Rusty Wier to do a song with him. Despite having to be helped onstage, once Rusty got there and felt the energy of the crowd, he was able to turn that switch on and become the ultimate showman he has been for over forty years. They did “Can’t You See” and I think the side ramp leading to the stage was the most crowded it was all week as every single person that had backstage access quit whatever b.s.-ing or joke telling they were doing so that they could take in the history being made on that stage. Rusty got stronger as he went, and the smile on Stoney’s face reminded me of the first time I saw him play about six years ago. He was just another fan basking in the glow of Rusty Wier, and it was wonderful.

It is a good thing that Reckless Kelly is probably one of the best bands working in the world today, because they are about the only group I know that could have followed the emotion-charged Rusty/Stoney set and make something memorable happen in their own right. However, that’s exactly what they did. They played a few new tunes and every one of the songs you would expect to hear.

RK always seems to pull out something special for LJTs, and this year was no exception as they jammed right through stage curfew and close to 1AM. They are so incredibly consistent and good that it is hard to say anything other than they are the standard that every band in this scene is trying to reach.

By the time Reckless Kelly finally finished up, the Mandatory FM stage was getting ready to get going again. Tonight’s first set was one that had been the buzz of the backstage area all afternoon. It would feature Drew Kennedy along with Joe Churchill and Kristen Kelly from the Modern Day Drifters.

There is nobody more at home in an acoustic songswap that Drew Kennedy. Drew knows how to shine the light on himself and then turn around to shine the light brighter on his set mates. His gracious hosting skills and booming voice lend itself to a great fit for any stage…yet he seems to be perfect for LJTs. I’m hoping he lands a spot on the Palo Duro Stage next year. He played even more new songs than he had the night before and included a rousing version of “Folsom Prison”…a song that has been covered so many times it is weak in the wrong hands and more powerful than ever in the hands, or voice as it were, of an artist like Drew Kennedy.

The Drifters are another band that is starting to make considerable noise in the Texas Music scene. The notion of shared male and female vocals is not something that has been done a lot in this scene, and probably not with this much passion. Kristen Kelly’s voice gets better each time I hear it. She and Joe played the Mandatory stage last year in the same slot and blew everyone away…only to top themselves this year. The highlight of their set for me was their cover version of “Angel From Montgomery”. A John Prine tune covered by a few other artists that Kelly’s vocals wrap around so powerfully that they included it on their debut album.

It is hard to make a listening room type audience quieter than silent, but I think that’s what happened when Kristen reached the song’s finale and blew everyone away. I happened to be standing by Wade Bowen and Deryl Dodd (who were playing on the stage next) when she was belting and they were blown away. They both mentioned it was the best version of that song they’d ever heard. High praise, especially from Dodd, who used to play for Martina McBride. Keep your eyes and ears out for Modern Day Drifters…they too could be on the mainstages next year.

Wade Bowen continued his maiden voyage through LJTs as a performer by playing on the Mandatory Stage with Deryl Dodd. While Dodd took requests and generally proved himself to be the week’s MVP for staying for the duration and playing well with so many people in so many settings, it was Bowen again who took my attention. Wade played “Ghost”, and some other tracks off his forthcoming album. The new tunes are the best sounding of his career, and if the response he got at the Mandatory stage was any indication, it could be a really big year for Wade.

Once things wound down in Mandatory land again, it was time for another trip over to Crazy Ray’s where we ran into Jesse Fritz and Jeremy Watkins from Stoney’s band. Yet another jam session ensued with people trading licks, vocals and stories until nearly sunrise. I called it a night around 4AM and many people were still taking it all in over at the Crazy Ray Compound.

As we stumbled back to our own compound we saw several people up still partying. They had my guitar out, so Drew got his out and we continued playing. Around this time, someone in our area set off some fireworks. You know, the kind that are banned at the festival. Despite it being against the rules, it was one of the funniest practical jokes I witnessed out there all weekend.

SATURDAY

The very first LJTs I ever attended featured Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines. As a fellow (Southwest) Texas State Alumni, I have always kept a keen eye on Terri’s career. I don’t get to see her play very often, but when I do it is always a treat. Lloyd Maines is a legend in this scene both for his guitar playing and his production work. He has produced quite a number of the artists that were performing in one capacity or another over the course of the week, and his show with Terri was one of the best of the festival.

After catching a little bit of Davin James, being out there since Wednesday was starting to catch up with me. I’d been on my feet watching music in different forms for nearly 4 days straight. So, I decided to head back to camp and hang out with my friends until Rusty Wier’s performance.

Sitting under shade tents, listening to music and talking is always one of my favorite parts of the festival. It is a time for fellowship and bonding among some people you may only see this one time each year.

Around 3:45PM we decided to load up and walk up to the stage for Rusty’s performance. Based on the last few months with his health battles and what we’d seen the night before with Stoney, we knew it would be a very emotional show…just how emotional, I don’t know anyone knew. Even though I have backstage access and the luxury of seeing the show from the big timers point of view, there are certain shows I never miss from the crowd.

Rusty Wier is one of those…and this was one time I was damn glad to be out front and rocking along.

I’ve had my fair share of magic via music. It has caused happy and sad tears in my life…gotten me through tough times, reminded me of the best times and given me hope for the future.

I’m not sure I’ve ever experienced something that managed to do all that at once.

Rusty’s band was plugged in and ready to go as one of my musical heroes struggled to make it to the mic. After a rousing introduction courtesy of John Hollinger, Rusty hit the stage. And just like the night before, you could tell the energy from the crowd was going to be what kept him going.

Cancer is a terrible disease that effects too many in too many ways.

But on Saturday April 26 about 4PM in that field in Stephenville, it was not going to get Rusty Wier down. As he leaned into the mic for the first time he said, with tears rolling down his face, “Three months ago they told me I had one month to live…and I’m still here…thank God for angels, Jesus, and you all for being here.” The first song he kicked into was “Mama, I Don’t Wanna Lay This Guitar Down”. The lyrics foreshadowed the set.

No Rusty’s voice wasn’t as strong as it had been in years past. The bottle of tequila wasn’t present for “Quervo’s Gold”…but his smile and his spirit, two things he always took with him everywhere, were undeterred. As he tore through the songs and jokes we’d all heard a thousand times before, everyone began to realize just how special what we were witnessing was.

Normally, at these big festival shows, all the other artists are too busy or consider themselves too important to watch the other acts. Just as the night before, everyone dropped whatever they were doing and one glance at the sidestage proved that it was full of artists watching one of their heroes one last time. By the time he reached his signature song, “Don’t It Make You Wanna Dance?” there was no long winded intro about Chris LeDoux and Bonnie Rait, just a knowing smile.

As the song reached its climax there were people everywhere just clapping, smiling, crying and doffing their hats to the man that has influenced so many and paved so many of the roads that all of the acts we dig so much travel down today.

As the last note drifted out of the speakers, and Rusty was being helped off stage a large chant of “Rusty! Rusty!” erupted across the thousands of outstretched arms and faces in attendance. Rusty spun around, sunk his head, soaked up the last bit of energy he had and worked his way back to center stage. He leaned back into the mic and repeated his desire that we thank God and angels for his being there…and then showcasing his signature sense of humor, he grinned while saying “Oh, and Larry Joe Taylor too.”

It was then that he launched into his gospel tinged “I Stood Up”, and caused there not to be a dry eye anywhere. As he reached the second chorus, he was surrounded by all the artists who had been standing sidestage…they sang harmony and hugged Rusty as they sang a refrain of “I stood up…I stood with Jesus”.

Oftentimes in this scene we use the analogy that we’re going to church when referencing a certain artist or show. However, this was by far the most powerful musical experience I’ve ever been a part of.

We all wanted him to stay on that stage forever that afternoon…we didn’t want to admit that it was over. But, after the tears dried away, I remembered that he’ll always live on.

And I’ll always remember this show.

After Rusty’s set was over and the task of announcing chili-winners commenced, we headed back to our campsites to begin tearing down and preparing for the cold front we’d heard was on the way and bringing a 90% chance of precipitation.

Once that was done, it was time to venture back up to the stage for Ray Wylie Hubbard and Mike McClure. These guys are acts that make the LJT festival special for me each year. They seem to put on their best performances here. RWH because he has been playing the festival from the get go and McClure because he’s had such strong roots in the Stephenville area going back to his days with the Great Divide. Once they were done, it was time for the man that started all this. I have no idea how Larry Joe Taylor is still functioning properly at this point each year after all the energy he and his family put into the festival, but he always manages to put on a fun show.



As I began to feel the cold winds blow and rains come in, I headed back to our RV to batten down the hatches and ride it out. We crammed about seven people inside, grabbed a cooler and my guitar and entertained ourselves until nearly 3AM. That was about the time we realized this nasty weather was not going to halt.

Being the gentleman that my mother and wife have molded me to be, I climbed into the cab of our RV and surrendered my bed to some girls who had been camping with us in tents. Sleeping in the cab of an RV in the middle of cold rains is not the most comfortable sleeping arrangement I’ve ever had, but I made do.

As I was beginning to awake, I noticed many folks that had been camping in our section had already bailed out. I woke everyone else up, got packed up, and we were ready to head home to our families, beds and hot showers. There was just one problem. The battery on our RV was dead and we had to get jumped off. Once we got the rig cranked we sat in line for nearly an hour trying to get out…three of us crammed in the cab in silence realizing that it would be another 360 days until we could do it all again.



All in all, this was one of my favorite LJT fests ever…I met so many brilliant artists, wonderful music fans and cool people…and I’m already making my plans for next year…I hope you’ll join us.

Photo credits: Renee Meaux, Joni Beard, Heather Jank

Modern Day Drifters are a band making waves in the Texas and Americana scenes with their diverse blend of styles. Led by co-lead vocalists, Kristen Kelly and Joe Churchill, the Drifters weave their way through highways both literal and metaphorical. They inhabit and express all the places people visit in the highways of their mind and the backroads of their good times. Survivors of other bands, Kelly and Churchill learned as backing members what and what not to do with a band. Their experiences helped them create a vision for Modern Day Drifters. Thusfar, that vision has been steadily realized through hard work, determination and talent. The contrast of Kelly's bluesy vocals and Churchill's laid back yet wise vibe have combined to make them a band to watch.

1. What’s new and exciting in the world of the Modern Day Drifters?

We have a debut album out The Highway Is My Home – now available at any of our shows, LoneStarMusic.com and OurTracks.com. Please request the first single from the album “Tired Of This Town” at Radio Free Texas and any radio station you listen to.-Kristen

2. The two of you produced the new record yourself. Was this by design, or out of necessity?

By design. When you are establishing your sound, who better to do so than yourself? -Joe
Coming from other bands, we knew we had a specific vision and sound in our head for our first record as the Modern Day Drifters.-Kristen



3. Name association:

-Drew Kennedy- I like his songwriting and ability to construct melodies…which set the mood for the songs that he writes.-Joe
-Rich O’ Toole – Puts on a very energetic show – love the song “Kelly” - Kristen
-Josh Grider – Very gracious. A fellow survivor of the Waco music scene.-Joe
-Billy Joe Shaver – Papa Joe... one of the most influential singer/songwriters ever and my godfather in more ways than one.-Kristen
Will never forget the night he played my guitar for his whole show, unreal. - Joe
-Randy Rogers-Love the way he balances melody and lyrics.-Joe
-And the way he treats his band as equal partners in everything is how it should be done!-Kristen
-Pat Green – One of the reasons the Texas Music Scene is where it is today. – Joe.
-Wade Bowen-Super nice guy, has been willing to help us from day one.-Kristen
-Jason Boland – Cheap bourbon whiskey and pearl snap shirts.- Joe
-Larry Hooper – He’s funny … first met him at the Big O Katrina Benefit at George’s back in ’05, and he’s been a trusted musical ally ever since.- Kristen
-Bo Cox – Drinking plenty of Miller Lite while pickin and grinning in the garage after his show at George’s – Joe




4. You graduated from the prestigous McLennan Community College commercial music program led by Dick Gimble. Other notable alumni include Drew Womack and Ruthie Foster. What made you want to pursue your education there? How beneficial do you feel it has been for you?

I happened upon the music program at MCC and was pleased to find that it was a Commercial program and not a transfer program. It helped me hone the skills that I had built on my own. It has made my musical progression a lot easier, and I’m a much better musician than when I was prior to going through the program. -Joe

I never liked school … and when I realized I could go to school for music … I jumped on the opportunity, because I didn’t feel like I was going to school. I had a lot of trouble with harmonies and feel that my vocal lessons with Beth Ullman really helped. I learned theory and things I probably would not have applied myself to learning otherwise. Most of the guys in the band went through the program too, and I think it gives us an advantage stepping on stage and being so well-rounded. -Kristen


5. You are based out of Waco, which at times can be a very fickle live music town. Yet, you guys seem to have made it work for you. You’ve developed new venues and created a hardcore and loyal home fanbase. What is the best thing about being based from central Texas? What are the drawbacks?

The fact that we are centrally located within the state, would be the best thing about being based from Waco…we are just short drives away from DFW or Austin…or just about anywhere else for that matter. The only drawback of being out of Waco is we get all the silly, “Oh, y’all are from Wacko” jokes and stuff. Then you have to explain that all that actually took place in tiny Mount Calm about twenty miles outside of town, but whatever. (laughs) The pros definitely outweigh the cons.-Kristen

6. While starting out in the music industry, all musicians must support themselves with day jobs they are not huge fans of. What have been the worst day jobs you’ve had to endure?

Tire delivery man…lots of long drives and late nights. It is hard to be out changing tires in the middle of nowhere at the same time you’d rather be gigging. (laughs) -Joe

Waiting tables. The hours weren’t very conducive to gigging and there are way too many crappy tippers out there! You know who you are! (laughs) -Kristen

7. Stories behind the following songs:

-Tired of This Town – Drunk in the garage - I had the verses and Joe had a chorus. We started meshing them together and they seemed to fit…then again - it could have just been the alcohol. (laughs) -Kristen
-Rock Bottom – Relationships suck. (laughs) - Joe
-Gypsy – It is what I am, it’s what I wanna be. Being a musician is either in your blood or not. I crave the road and the adventure as much as the show itself. - Joe
-Nature To Run – You know those times where you wish you could turn back time, this is about one of those times. - Joe
-Broken White Line – I was delivering tires in that job I hated. I was somewhere between Hico and Stephenville middle of the night and the radio didn’t work … a song was born - Joe
-Shades of Gray – I had the lyrics, and a melody. Joe helped me make the song happen by adding the music…and I think it came out really cool. - Kristen
-Gone – “Hey Kristen, help me finish this song!” - Joe

8. Kristen, you wrote “Down in Flames” with Stoney LaRue and Brandon Jenkins. What do you find most difficult about co-writing? What is the best thing about writing with others?

I actually have always found it a welcoming task…and it always helps having outside ears. It’s kind of like putting together a puzzle. Each person puts in their pieces. I like collaborating with everyone I can. I have slips of paper and journals that are almost ten years old that I still keep around and share, because you never know when someone will have that missing link to your song.- Kris

9. On this album, you cover “Angel From Montgomery” by John Prine. What made you want to cover that song in particular? Were there other songs you considered covering for the album instead?

We never really considered covering any other songs. The Prine tune is one I had been singing for a while and we felt compelled to include it after recording it. It always gets such an amazing response at the shows, that I knew it must go on the album. - Kristen

10. Favorite touring memory of the following towns:

-New Braunfels – Late nights by the campfires at a cabin right on the river … copious amounts of alcohol (laughs) - Joe
-Stephenville – Lots of things come to mind…LJT Fest…Mandatory FM Stage … naked band members … crawfish … way too early in the morning … need I say more.-Kristen
-Ft. Worth – Bad house PA…free beer…Chuck Taylor. –Joe.
-Houston- A hard town…sometimes I feel like Bingham…”Houston gets me down.”-Kristen
-College Station – Keg party before the show, so drunk I fell down on stage. But, actually ended up playing one of the best shows ever. Funny how that works sometimes. - Joe
-Dallas –Justin Frazzell rocks my face off.-Kristen
-Austin – SXSW Showcase at Waterloo…any show where Drew Kennedy talks about a pinata massacre on I-35 is memorable.-Kristen



11. Every band has a gig memory that could be a horror story. Without giving away the details…describe the worst gig you’ve ever had?

To drive all the way down to a gig and find out the place is closed. Then turn to find someone pulling in to ask us “Hey, when did they open this place back up?” -Joe

12. On the flip side of that question, tell us about the coolest gig you’ve played to date as Modern Day Drifters?

Our album release party at the Horny Toad in Cranfills Gap was awesome! – small place but lots of love. The Galleywinter/Americana Roots South By showcase was super cool too. We’re big fans of Mando and DK and the energy in the room that night was good for our set.-Kristen

13. Kristen, your sister, Kimberly Kelly is making quite a name for herself in the scene as well. Can you describe what y’alls relationship is like, and talk about how your family has supported the two of you. Also, to what do you attribute the musical prowess in your family?

We have a great supportive relationship. We equally spread the word about one another and share contacts, road stories, etc. Our family is very supportive, although I don’t think I’ll ever get used to hearing one of them talk about us. Our grandfather was a musician and our father and uncles all played in his band. Music has been a part of our family for as long as I can remember.-Kristen

14. Prior to being in this band, you have all participated in other projects. What do you think makes the chemistry work so well as the Modern Day Drifters?

We are partners in crime, as cliché as it sounds, we are like brother and sister … without all the fussin brothers and sisters tend to do. The people we have working with us and all the guys that have joined the band fit right in and we’re all just enjoying the ride. -Kristen


15. If they were to make a movie of your lives, who would play each of you in the film…and why?

I think Joaquin Phoenix would play the role of Joe well. – Kristen
James “Jaime” King for the role of Kristen..because nobody puts baby in the corner! (laughs) – Joe

By the way, if you haven’t seen the movie Lone Star State of Mind, you must purchase it immediately and watch it religiously!– Kristen

16. There seems to be a growing wave of quality bands in this scene that feature a male and female lead working together. Such as The Gougers and Blake & Fallon. What is the biggest benefit of sharing lead vocals? Are there any drawbacks?

Our fans get the best of both worlds…male and female perspective on life and music.-Joe

I think it is just a reflection of society and modern music. Acts like Sugarland and the Gougers and other male/female duos seem to connect with their fans on a very passionate and personal level because they are making music from the heart. And, that’s what we do too.-Kristen



17. If you could erase one song from the public’s collective consciousness what would it be and why? What is one song everyone should have on their Ipod and why?

Nothing should ever be banished completely, because it can be learned from even if you hate it. That being said, I am tired of hearing that Ashton Shepherd song about the cold beer and wedding band every five seconds. (laughs)-Joe

Everyone should have “Heavenly Day” by Patty Griffin…she’s one of my heroes and this is my favorite song of hers. We cover it when we play acoustic and I hope we do it justice! - Kristen

“Horseshoe Lounge” by Slaid Cleaves is one of my all-time favorite songs, and one that surprisingly a lot of people don’t remember or know about. - Joe

18. Rapid fire:
-Favorite hobby? – Anything outdoors-Kristen; Hunting and fishing!-Joe.
-Favorite restaurant? - Pacho’s in Dilly, Texas. I’ve tried to describe this place to people, but words alone don’t do it justice. Seek it out, you’ll be glad you did. – Joe
Any restaurant that serves steak and potatoes…and let me drink my wine out of a Dixie cup.- Kristen
-Any hidden talents? – Joe does some pretty spot-on impersonations.-Kristen

19. What is your favorite George Strait song?

“Fool Hearted Memory”. I’m a huge fan of that era of country music, and this is one of my favorite songs from that time.– Joe

“Unwound”…still great to this day.- Kristen

20. What do you think sets your music apart from that of mainstream country music?

Simply put, it’s homegrown.-Joe

We make music from our heart and soul wherever the inspiration or motivation takes us. We don’t try to focus on a predetermined demographic, or think about what radio will like. We just do what we do, and the more people that dig it the cooler. If that is only a handful of people who truly believe in what we do, then so be it. I’d rather be real and struggle than fake and have it easy. -Kristen

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Buy the Album at LSM.com