I used to listen to country but grew more and more apathetic with it over the years until I heard a horrid song about a friggin’ answering machine. I quit listening almost immediately thereafter.
I still like Martina McBride (has one of the most beautiful voices ever), Collin Raye (I like him so much I’m thinking of stealing his name for my future son), Nickle Creek (bluegrassy goodness), and Allison Krauss (the only woman to have a more beautiful voice than Martina McBride.
Yeah, that song is wretched. There are a couple of country songs based on email glurge that make me switch the radio back to the local “Best of the 70s & 80s Rock” station till I know it’s safe.
Gotta agree with you about Allison Krauss (the voice of an angel) and Martina McBride. Also try Mary Chapin Carpenter and Deanna Carter. And Teri Clark.
Vince Gill is always good.
There’s also a group from Russia called Bering Strait that has a bluegrass-y feel.
listen to anything by jay farrar. he was a member of uncle tupelo and son volt, both great bands. he has a new solo record out, but i haven’t been able to find it. it’s getting nice reviews, though.
i can’t vouch for any “mainstream” country, because basically everything i hear on the radio or tv is terribly insipid and juvenile. and i’m not a huge country fan. but i can respect artists like johnny, willie, and dwight.
also, kathleen edwards has an amazing debut album out.
Roland: You might want to give a listen to, “Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner”, by Mr. Zevon. I know this isn’t country, but you should really pick up “Warren Zevon”, and “Excitable Boy”, both by Warren. In fact, all music fans should own those CD’s!
Haven’t seen Kenny Chesney or Randy Travis mentioned yet. I’m not a huge fan of the old stuff either, but I promise you that you will enjoy Alabama. Their “For the Record” greatest hits album is absolutely incredible.
