A Note on Album Reviews and Saving Country Music
When I started Saving Country Music 10 years ago, reviewing records was never part of the intention or the founding principles. The point of Saving Country Music was to rage against the loss of creative control by country music artists to Music Row, to advocate for the independence of music expressions, and work to return the roots of the music back into the modern country context. The vehicle with which to achieve these goals was written articles featuring strong criticism, illuminations on the issues plaguing modern country artists, corporate watchdogging, history lessons on the long-standing conflicts between music and business in country, as well as sarcasm and hyperbole to help reveal deeper truths.
Very specifically, I had been reading about the struggles of Outlaw-era artists, saw the parallel between the struggles of today’s artists, and as a fan, wanted to do something constructive about it. Of course it would be impossible to help save country music without also shining a light on the artists who were helping to lead the charge. After all, they were the ones who would actually be doing the saving. The name of this website was simply the embodiment of an idea, not an insinuation that I was the one acting as country music’s savior—an often misunderstood point.
Nonetheless, artist features were just one part of what Saving County Music did. In fact the first thing resembling a proper album review didn’t appear on the site until a year after its existence. It was at the request of readers that album reviews became an increasing part of Saving Country Music’s coverage. As part of this transition came the need to not just be an advocate for independent music, but a critical voice, understanding that criticism aids in the creative process, builds objectivity into coverage, and ultimately helps create an equal playing field for independent artists when they’re featured right beside mainstream names, increasing name recognition and fandom for these performers.
Without a legacy media brand behind it, or a big promotional budget, Saving Country Music has never had a mammoth social media presence, or built-in readership. Instead, and from the beginning, the site has relied on the power of search engines to spread it’s message subversive to the mainstream mindset. Founded on the idea that there were millions of country music fans disgruntled about the direction of the music, Saving Country Music was constructed to be like a spider web, catching these music fans, and then exposing them to healthier listening alternatives.
In this pursuit, Saving Country Music has been very effective. Over time, the site has been tweaked to become even more more optimized at this effort, utilizing algorithmic data to understand when to post what to enhance exposure for important artists and critical subjects. It’s never perfect, and the digital media landscape is always changing. But the charge of the site remains the same. The careers launched, and the critical issues addressed and vanquished have at times been significant, despite missteps, a few misspelled words, and a dubious standing with certain artists, fans, fellow journalists, and industry entities.
But Saving Country Music is not a popularity contest. For it to be effective, it is imperative that mainstream artists and subjects are broached, not just to attract the broad-based readership it takes to breed new independent music fans, but also because you cannot save country music while ignoring the mainstream where the largest concentration of music fans exists, as well as the biggest media reach with radio and award shows. This is also why it’s important, if not imperative, to highlight when and where improvement is seen in the mainstream in hopes it breeds even more improvement, just like it’s important to be critical to independent music when necessary so it’s understood this is not a biased pursuit, aside from the bias against bad music and corporate control of the creative process.
Being honest and critical regardless of the popularity of these opinions is built into the very founding principles of Saving Country Music and it’s business model. The point is not to be a well-liked site, but an effective vehicle for positive change in the music marketplace. The emphasis is in increasing the flock, not preaching to the choir.
Over time, the readership of Saving Country Music has increased, as has its social media footprint. Many readers use the site solely for music recommendations. Many might be surprised how many industry professionals count themselves as daily readers. In fact the biggest concentration of readers is very specifically on Music Row in Nashville, speaking to the wide swath of country fans the site engages. A few years ago it was decided to give more focus on Texas country and Red Dirt music due to the lack of coverage of that scene. Aside from bluegrass, which is still covered here and there, Saving Country Music covers most every aspect of country music, including a special emphasis on international artists, minorities and women, and all as a one-man operation aside from some technical expertise.
There are certainly larger websites in regards to daily readers, but where Saving Country Music continues to outperform compared to any competition is in the realm of engagement. Whether social media posts or comments on a given article, it’s the site’s ability to engage that helps make it so effective. Part of this is due to the emphasis placed on comments since the very beginning of the site. I wanted people to know that their opinions matter to, and that I read them. That’s why I respond to comments still, even while many sites are eliminating their comment sections altogether.
However this engagement, and the site’s “spider web” design, also sometimes result in unintended consequences. Sometimes people become obsessed with Saving Country Music. This site has a large segment of hate readers, meaning people who come to the site solely to find something to be angry about. Call it the Howard Stern effect. Often these people spend more time on this site than people who like it. And with the propensity of Saving Country Music to offer strong opinions and sarcasm, it can sometimes be difficult to hold on to long-term readers, and the site often goes misunderstood. The name also lends to this misunderstanding since to some people think Saving Country Music should be something different than what it is, and unfortunately, everyone’s expectations tend to be different.
Every year, and at the request and the response to readers, Saving Country Music has increased the amount of album reviews posted to the site. 2018 is no exception, with more album reviews posted at this time compared to last year, or any year previous. I’m also posting more album announcements, and now playlist updates which is another discovery mechanism, as well as more articles cataloging and curating upcoming releases, all while the amount of mainstream coverage has remained static, despite the mischaracterizations of some. This isn’t an opinion that mainstream coverage has not increased, this is statistical certitude that anyone can verify by breaking down the site’s coverage.
Nonetheless, the criticism of Saving Country Music for not posting enough album reviews or positive music coverage in general, ignoring certain releases or artists, only posting about the mainstream or only posting negative coverage, or posting about mainstream artists in lieu of independent ones has only increased. In fact the more album reviews I post, the more complaints I receive for not posting enough of them. Also with the increase of album reviews, since so many albums are being covered, the ones that are not covered become conspicuous, making some believe certain albums and artists are being excluded, or I am personally biased against them. Redoubling efforts to post more album reviews, and even increasing vintage album reviews has only made the criticism of not enough album reviews being posted worse. Aside from a willful understanding of how Saving Country Music works, the only way to alleviate or decrease this unfounded criticism of not posting enough album reviews would be to not post any album reviews at all, just like this site did at the very start. But obviously this would not be good for anybody.
Greatly complicating this issue is Facebook’s algorithm. Since album reviews and positive music coverage in general tend to receive less likes, less shares, less clicks, and less comments, these articles are rarely shown in people’s news feeds, increasing the perception that they don’t exist at all, let alone make up the vast majority of Saving Country Music’s coverage. The general perception of the site on Facebook is one that only posts about Luke Bryan and Sam Hunt. This is aided and abetted by hate readers, rival entities engaged in turf wars, and disgruntled artists and their fans angry they have not been covered, or have been covered critically in the past. Their anger may be just, but the idea that Saving Country Music does not cover independent music, or does not cover independent music enough is still completely incorrect.
In truth, people complaining about the lack of album reviews or other positive coverage on the site are commenting way more on their own browsing habits as opposed to the site’s coverage map. Generally speaking, album reviews continue to be one of the least-read elements on the site. Yet reviewing albums is approached as a solemn duty, and and imperative service to the music community. That’s also the reason the effort can’t be approach lightly.
Artists put their lives into these records. The least you can do as an album reviewer is to listen intently, consider the messages and meanings, account for an artist’s biography and geography, perhaps step away for a few days and then listen again which fresh ears and a new perspective. And after that, compose a review that is compelling, worthy to the effort being described, and help frame the work in a greater context, not just for today’s readers and listeners, but for the same eternity that graces all good works of art. Two-sentence blurbs as album reviews are insulting to the work regardless of what they say.
That is why every album can’t be reviewed. It would be physically impossible for Saving Country Music to review more albums then it currently is. It is a misnomer that when something else is covered, regardless of what it is, it is in lieu of an album review. Sometimes an album review requires weeks of listening, and sometimes many hours of writing. News stories, song reviews, and other such material do not require nearly the commitment. Along with posting more album reviews then most any critic in any genre, Saving Country Music’s album reviews are also much longer. Also many hours of listening and sometimes research is devoted to albums the ultimately do not get reviewed for a myriad of reasons.
And not every album deserves an album review. Sometimes as a reviewer, you just don’t know what to say about an album. This shouldn’t be taken as an insult to the work. Like a handicapper in football, they don’t pick every single college and NFL game each Sunday, they pick the ones they think they have a handle on. Album reviews are the same. And similarly, there is too much music out there right now. There aren’t ten new albums, or ten new songs worthy of your ear each week, or ten new artists each month, despite the click-bait some sites create, saying only positive things about every album, and basically trolling the fan bases of the artists they feature for clicks and social media links.
With nearly 4,800 articles posted, and with the vast majority of those being of a positive nature, it is ridiculous to say or insinuate that Saving Country Music hasn’t put forth the effort to support independent music, all while asking not a single penny in donations, subscriptions, merch as to not undercut the artists and labels, as well as carrying one of the lightest ad sets on the internet, keeping the reading space free of ads, as well as not burdening readers with drop downs, click thrus, or video streaming ads. Estimates say that in two years, half of websites will be subscription-based, but this will never work for Saving Country Music, because the site depends on open, easy access to written material to be effective in luring new independent music converts.
All I have ever asked from anyone is their eyes and their understanding of what it is that I am trying to do, which is unusual, sometimes messy, occasionally ineffective, but at other times critically influential and important. Far be it from me do not want to be criticized. In fact I encourage criticism and suggestions, and have even made a forum for anyone to air their grievances or offer their opinions right beside mine. Some will point to this diatribe, pick it apart, and use it to criticize this site too. Others will ask why I couldn’t have spent this time writing an album review (see above for the explanation).
Saving Country Music is a very weird site, and don’t think that doesn’t go understood from the other side of the computer screen. One person blog-style websites no longer exist on the scale they once did. That segment of the internet and journalist economy has been eradicated, especially in music. But Saving Country Music continues to excel, and without having to pivot into video, get into podcasting, or stray away from it’s underlying mission and founding principles. I still believe in the power of the written word as superior in how it stimulates the mind.
But the idea that Saving Country Music does not support worthy music is incorrect and completely unfounded. The underlying basis for Saving Country Music will always be the album review, and features on independent artists. But efficiencies have been maxed out. There is no possibly way to write more album reviews, including not covering the mainstream or news stories at all. There’s just not any more time to cram more music in my brain, and write about it effectively, or in a compelling manner. I try the best I can.
I ask for your understanding.
Trigger
July 10, 2018 @ 8:42 am
Also, I’m not fishing for compliments here. Just wanted to make a landing page that I can link to every time someone complains about something I post.
Big Cat
July 10, 2018 @ 11:37 am
Well said sir. Keep doing what you are doing…. It is much appreciated by countless country music fans and I am sure fans of all music for that matter.
King Honky Of Crackershire
July 10, 2018 @ 11:39 am
I have no idea whether my opinion on this issue falls into the minority or the majority, among your readership, but I’ve always wished you would do less album reviews.
I’m a dinosaur. I hate the death of Country Music, and believe it’s never coming back. Additionally, very little of what you review impresses me enough to care about it, which makes the reviews seem monotonous and boring.
To me, you’ve always been at your best with your rants and criticisms. You and I agree most on what we hate, as opposed to what we like. The fact that I complain more than I praise is a testament to the fact that you do a crap-ton of album reviews.
Black Boots
July 10, 2018 @ 6:41 pm
My god, take the cork out of your ass and enjoy life
King Honky Of Crackershire
July 11, 2018 @ 6:02 am
If he was your god, you wouldn’t use his name in vain.
Marc
July 10, 2018 @ 5:40 pm
Trig, please keep up the album reviews. The pop country reviews give me something to laugh at and help me realize I’m not the only one that thinks the mainstream is garbage. The independent/little man album reviews show me what I should be listening to and buying. Keep up the great work and don’t change a thing or bow to haters.
Marc from Nashville.
Kent
July 11, 2018 @ 3:35 am
“Just wanted to make a landing page that I can link to every time someone complains about something I post.”
Maybe you should have link to this article somewhere on your site call it “This is Save Country Music” or something. I also would like you to have separate forum there readers of site can post link to videos and article they found on the internet. That way people don’t have to post comments that isn’t related to the article…Like I’m gonna do now 🙂 Just find this video with John Prine and a bunch of other artists. Witch I think really is worth a watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAYoWePzQ2c
Trigger
July 11, 2018 @ 6:18 am
No promises, but a forum might be in the works. Just like a podcast, a forum did exist at one time, but it was rarely used so it went away.
Kent
July 11, 2018 @ 8:11 am
Yea, a podcast would be nice 🙂
Regarding my wish for a forum. After I post I came to think that creating a forum
and make it work might not be as easy as I first thought. There will probably be the same problem as you sometimes allready have. What kind of music should be allowed in that forum. I mean there are probebly some of your readers who are of the opinion that even the John Prine video I posted isn’t country, and they would to some degree be right, it is also partly folk, or Americana…But I still think he qualified to be on your blog.
Maybe you should have named this blog Save American Root Music instead then you started it. 🙂
TwangBob
July 11, 2018 @ 10:09 am
An online forum can be a real royal pain to administrate. Take it from someone who was a site board administrator for nearly 10 years. Its a thankless position (and unpaid, for me) that requires a lot of time to monitor and weed out the troublemakers who are there just to stir up hate and discontent. Given my experience, I’d recommend against creating a forum.
I enjoy this site as it is, with every blog post and review. I believe you are covering all of the bases as much as one person can do. The fact that readership has increased is a testament to the value of your work.
Jack
July 12, 2018 @ 12:42 pm
It seems to me like the biggest hurdle to a good forum would be establishing a user base with a well defined common interest. Starting from scratch sounds like a nightmare of cat herding, but this site has done an excellent job over the years of defining what it’s about, and attracting users who share those views. I think the solid user base he has established would take a lot of the mod work off of his shoulders. Requiring accounts with verified email addresses to make comments would also help. You’ve got more experience than I do though.
As far as the other user’s point about Prine – I’ve seen rap albums reviewed here, I don’t think John Prine would be an issue. I think music that claims to be what it’s not is what most here have a problem with.
Fat Freddy's Cat
July 10, 2018 @ 9:01 am
FWIW you have my understanding. I remember looking at an earlier post about upcoming releases and being flabbergasted by the sheer volume of them.
I do very much enjoy your reviews and find them very useful. And there are favorite artists I want to see reviewed. But I’m not angry about it. I know what it’s like in the real world.
kross
July 10, 2018 @ 9:04 am
you’re doing fine bruh, keep up the good work. Although that podcast idea isn’t half bad. I know you’re busy, but it would be cool to hear you interview some of the up and coming artist while they are still small to see where they are coming from creatively and personally.
Trigger
July 10, 2018 @ 9:43 am
If I ever got into podcasting again, it would have to be the ideal scenario. I did have a podcast and put together 50 episodes, but it was mostly music-based. Now if you want to podcast, you can’t include music, which to me takes out much of the usefulness. That said, I am actively exploring podcasting options and have been for the last couple of years. But I know my lane, and it’s the written word. Would only get into podcasting if it would enhance what I’m doing with writing instead of eating into it. That’s why I want actual music to be a part of it.
Snarky Anarky
July 10, 2018 @ 9:55 am
i do like that idea but understand the time commitment involved. the only other one that i have time to check out on a regular basis is Walking The Floor, which has had some pretty good interviews.
SCM is a site i check multiple times a day, just to see if something new has posted and I’ve definitely discovered some new artists due to it. I don’t always agree with every rant but know that there is at least thought and consideration put into them so I respect that.
I’ve seen the complaints you mention but never felt like they were very well founded to start with.
Fat Freddy's Cat
July 10, 2018 @ 9:05 am
Oh, and I see a kinda sorta parallel with a book I just started reading. It’s a biography of Bob Dylan that begins with Dylan’s “betrayal” by going electric. The author opined that Dylan learned that “adulation can become possessive contempt”.
Carson
July 10, 2018 @ 9:17 am
I’ve read your work at least weekly for the past five years. Plenty of my current favorite artists can be traced back to your coverage. I know you’re not fishing for compliments, but as a country music fan, thank you for what you do.
Farmer Brian
July 10, 2018 @ 9:32 am
I 100% agree with you Carson. I stumbled on to this site when I discovered Hank3 and have been a weekly reader ever since for the last 7-8 years. Most all of the favorite artists now, I haven discovered in an round about way thanks to SCM and Hank3. Thanks for doing what you do Trigg. I, for one, appreciated the time and dedication put into this site.
mphopkins99
July 10, 2018 @ 10:45 am
Absolutely. I’ve discovered so many great artists from this website. My wallet would like me to stop reading the reviews, but I won’t. Keep up the good work!
Clint
July 10, 2018 @ 9:19 am
I dont agree with all your takes or even have that similar taste in music but I come check it out every day.
Trigger
July 10, 2018 @ 12:52 pm
Some people think that I believe my opinions are the be alI end all. I crave to see people share their own opinions about music, especially if they’re contrary to mine. If this was an autocracy and we all agreed, there would be no new understanding to glean from each other.
Whiskeytown
July 10, 2018 @ 3:23 pm
Agree 100% with this. I dont always agree with what trig has to say but I respect just about everything he puts out. Trig does a good job of telling the truth and this is what keeps me coming back. If I agreed or liked everything he wrote, it would have gotten boring for me to keep coming back.
I love the album reviews, I have found some great artist from them as well as many I dont care for. Its important to have that Avenue to go down and make your own opinions.
Chris Lewis
July 10, 2018 @ 9:23 am
Thanks for all that you do! I really appreciate the reviews and may not pay attention to all of them, and may be hungry for more, but I realize you are one person and one person alone. I know of no other site that is as involved with the “community” of country music lovers and those that respect the traditions of it. I also appreciate all those who comment here as well as it does feel like a community. There are many that are very critical and are quick to throw out our views as being the only viable view, but I feel like that is just where we are currently in society. As mentioned we always want more and I admit I wish there were more contributing writers to your site. I also do miss the old podcasts with OutlawChicago, even though they tended to lean more to the punk side. It was a verbal/sonic element that seems to be missing. I realize the playlists has replaced that in some fashion. I think I can speak for alot of the commenters on here that we feel this site is such a great thing that we enjoy so much that we can’t help but want to see it expand. Keep up the good work! Don’t listen to the noise and complaints, because you can’t please everyone at all times.
Chris Lewis
July 10, 2018 @ 9:25 am
I wish I had the writing ability to contribute to your site because it would volunteer for sure.
Mongo
July 10, 2018 @ 9:25 am
I still can believe you haven’t reviewed ” such and such” by “whoever” instead of this bullshit (insert mainstream name here) review. Haha! Keep fighting the good fight and I’ll continue to read all your reviews regardless if it’s a Sam Hunt or a “whoever” review.
Moses
July 10, 2018 @ 9:38 am
Why haven’t you reviewed any Dylan Earl albums? Are you biased against him? Is it because he has two first names?
Ozal Ventura
July 10, 2018 @ 9:39 am
I’ve always felt the site strikes a very effective balance between mainstream/independent, reviews/news, positive/negative, serious/humorous
And the site would be far less interesting if you removed any combination of them
wayne
July 10, 2018 @ 9:43 am
I would certainly not expect more albums to be reviewed. There are only so many hours in a day. I come here primarily to learn of a new album release or artist I have otherwise not been familiar with.
I do my own reviews.
Just continue to keep the pipeline full of releases and artists. Don’t worry about what you can’t get to.
KT
July 10, 2018 @ 9:47 am
Trigger, you don’t have to defend yourself. People will find a reason to bitch no matter what. You said all you needed to say when you said “2018 is no exception, with more album reviews posted at this time compared to last year, or any year previous”. You’re only one dude. Give him a break people. Shit
Cobra
July 10, 2018 @ 9:52 am
I’ll periodically ask if you intend to review a certain album, but I try to avoid doing this and, in general, I tend to try to keep my comments related to the topic of the article. I can’t imagine there’s anything worse for you as a reviewer to have put so much effort into an album review only to have comments asking if you’ll review something else. I know it’s my pet-peeve even reading: if I go to read an album review and then read comments on that review, I would like to hear others’ thoughts on the topic: whether they agree or disagree. Seeing someone blatantly avoid the comment in favor of asking you if you are reviewing something else.
.
That’s why on the occasions I do ask, I always try to at least make it in conjunction with a comment on the subject of the original post.
Trigger
July 10, 2018 @ 12:54 pm
It’s good for me to see what other people are listening to out there and what is resonating. This helps me point my nose toward the next project to review in a crowded field. Also, if you don’t want to share something publicly, always feel free to shoot me an email. I read and respond to just about everything, and encourage suggestions.
Nat and Zoe's Dad
July 10, 2018 @ 6:31 pm
Yes he does, even if it’s a dumb question like Cody Jinks middle name. Thanks by the way.
Kingpete
July 10, 2018 @ 9:59 am
I think it’s just the lazy minority of your readers that you had to write this for.
If you give me a recommendation…i’ll do the leg work to find out about them and see if i agree or not.
Greg
July 10, 2018 @ 9:59 am
Kyle,you can’t review all Albums.I understand that.But I also know you do a great job and this Country fan is great ful.Keep up the great work.
(Me and) Paul
July 10, 2018 @ 10:07 am
I originally found this site because I was exploring a Reddit comment thread that had a lot of traditional country fans and someone posted a link to one of your articles bashing Luke Bryan or something. I had a good laugh, went down the rabbit hole of some other content, and now have been a daily reader for over a year. People who get upset about the satirical rants and mainstream coverage really underestimate how much they attract more than just internet trolls
Dennixx
July 10, 2018 @ 10:09 am
Your site, your rules.
Run it as you see fit.
I’ll continue to visit till I don’t.
Continued success going forward.
Tom Smith
July 10, 2018 @ 10:16 am
Do whatever you want. It’s your site and your passion. You don’t owe anyone anything.
Mike
July 10, 2018 @ 10:19 am
I can trace most of my album purchases in the last 10+ years to galleywinter.com and this site. I always get excited when there are positive reviews for bands I haven’t heard of so I can check them out.
To keep you in check, so you don’t get a big head – when are you going to post a review about Artist XY&Z? Quit slacking!
Pierre Brunelle
July 10, 2018 @ 10:19 am
Great note Trigg!
I certainly enjoy your blog! Thanks for all of your effort in highlight the good, the bad and the ugly of country music! 🙂
countryfan24
July 10, 2018 @ 10:24 am
Love this site and am grateful for all the album reviews you put out! (And you seem to cover the majority of what we’re all looking for.) Thanks, Trig!
Hillbilly
July 10, 2018 @ 10:24 am
I love this site and try to look at it at least once a day. I’ve found out about some really great music here and am definitely thankful for that. I don’t agree with all of your reviews but that doesn’t make me want to complain about any of them. After all, no one is forcing any of us to read any of them. Keep up the good work Trigger, this website is great and very much needed!
Dirt Road Derek
July 10, 2018 @ 10:43 am
I’ve been in love with this blog since I stumbled across it a short time ago, and I applaud the hard work you put into creating such a high quality website. Regardless of whether or not I agree with your views or opinions, I always find your posts stimulating and well written. I’ve been introduced to more excellent new music in my short time here than I have from years worth of browsing other sites. A days worth of reading your posts leaves me feeling newly informed and educated, and often leads to lengthy searches for more music and history of the artists you cover.
All of this has been what’s kept me coming back since that first introduction. Thank you so much for what you do!
Pat
July 10, 2018 @ 10:53 am
no need for more full reviews. heck i don’t actually read ’em typically. but i do typically check out an artist based on his or her mention on the site. maybe just quick blasts from time to time. hey, this dude sounded good. yada yada.
Jeremy
July 10, 2018 @ 10:56 am
You reviewed my brother’s first and only album back in February of this year and I’ve been with you since. I enjoy the articles and your taste in music. Has greatly improved my music library!
Thanks Trig!
scott
July 11, 2018 @ 5:43 am
Which album is this, Jeremy? Just curious.
Jeremy
July 11, 2018 @ 5:53 am
It’s Yellow Feather’s ‘And Gold’ album
Colter
July 10, 2018 @ 10:57 am
You’re doing the lord’s work and for that I thank you.
SirIam
July 10, 2018 @ 11:06 am
I love the site it is in morning reading daily. Whatever you are doing i respect. it is just your opinion; most of the time i agree. I concur there is too much hatred in the world right now; and music fans are probably are the worse; since it is a deeply private and major musicheads internalize the artists we love.
Joan Baez once said “Some people just connect with Bob(Dylan) on a deeper level.
I know i do when i find an artist who i enjoy may it be Sturgill, Isbel or Price. That doe not mean i just listen to americana music; i love funk and garage rock and the classics.
I want to thank you for your honestly and you pov on how you are being perceived
OlaR
July 10, 2018 @ 11:09 am
It’s a great site. Trigger makes the rules.
There are so many new releases every week it’s impossible to review all of them.
Two weeks ago i had 20+ new albums on my new release list with 10+ more older albums waiting on the list too. I had to pick the most promising albums & i’m pretty sure a couple of good albums must wait again. The next wave of new releases is already on the way & i don’t count the new albums by (format-)stars or australian country stars.
That’s why i “hijack” an article or review from time to time to write about new artists or releases i think more people should listen to. Or put my playlist under the SCM playlist. As long as Trigger is ok with it…
Chris
July 10, 2018 @ 11:17 am
I love your album reviews and almost all of your other musician-related threads (with the sole exception being articles about issues which wade into an artist’s or your political position(s)).
You have insights and access to artist information I will never have.
I rely on your reviews exclusively when purchasing music.
I suspect that I have been reading this site for almost the entirety of its existence, and i read it a minimum of once a day.
Sorry you get blowback from readers who should be grateful they have a source of information and insights that SCM and you provide.
I understand the breadth (and limits) of the country, indie, bluegrass, Music Row sub-genres that you cover, even when a particular review strays way beyond something which interests me.
Keep up the great work, amigo.
TNVivian
July 10, 2018 @ 11:21 am
I check this site and enjoy practically everything I read, because it is about Country Music! Getting information out there via Media of any sort is the Musical equivalent of campaigns to support endangered species, animal rescue, social injustice… I like your articles because they get news out there….thus Saving Country Music…and there is no sponsorship or corporate entity clouding the picture! Thanks for the work you are doing! I find it resourceful, non-biased And Informative!
Justin C
July 10, 2018 @ 11:24 am
I think time has come you should sell merchandise from the site. Regardless how you feel about it, you have worked your ass off to have what you have and I think it is just a a way to give back to the fans that come to see the new articles of the day. Your fans, including me,
would love to wear a savingcountrymusic hat or shirt!
Chris
July 10, 2018 @ 11:33 am
That’s right, Trig, you’re an “influencer” now.
You should be going on comped vacations and treated as a VIP.
I agree with selling some merchandise.
Pat
July 10, 2018 @ 11:34 am
pretty good call, Justin. like buying merch at a live show. make it cool, though. the people that follow this site are not douchey.
Trigger
July 10, 2018 @ 12:59 pm
The reason I have always resisted selling merch is because I would rather folks use that music cash on the bands, independent labels, festivals and live shows. Not trying to come across as all high and mighty, just my philosophy since day 1. But this is a business. I am an entrepreneur as well as a music writer, and the site has to make money to survive. For some, this fact is used as an accusation.
I’ve been threatening to do a limited merch run for years. We’ll see.
Pat
July 10, 2018 @ 5:19 pm
Quit threatening. Do it. Don’t be an idiot about it. I don’t want scm pants. Some shirts and shitty hats? Forget it. Done. We will get u paid.
Jack
July 10, 2018 @ 6:41 pm
You’ve done a great job of not selling out, and as you imply, large profits and genuine, high quality content are not mutually exclusive. There is a clear line between selling your own merch and that of bands, as the latter would discredit your reviews/recommendations obviously. I’d buy SCM stuff if you had it.
I would also recommend a forum section on the site, with a similar format as reddit, with up/down votes. Great way to increase traffic, understand what is popular with your users, discover new music, etc. You’ve earned a solid base of real country music fans here which is hard to do, and I think investing in a forum would pay off big time.
Tara Danielle
July 11, 2018 @ 9:26 am
I for one would support it and maybe if you don’t want to make money off of it, you can donate proceeds to a music based organization of your choice?
Stephanie
July 13, 2018 @ 6:19 am
I’d like to put in a request on behalf of the ladies for ANYTHING ELSE in addition to a crew neck t shirt!! Every graphic t I ever want is a freaking crew neck. I have so many awesome t shirts that look terrible on me! lol
That said, I’d love to have some merch, and hope that you’ll be able to make some available some time.
Travis
July 10, 2018 @ 3:54 pm
Regular ball caps with the SCM logo…none of that flat brim shite! I would definitely order one or two.
DJ
July 10, 2018 @ 5:23 pm
And T-shirts- for sure with the inscription “the pen is mightier than the sword” sigend, Trigger- LOL
DJ
July 10, 2018 @ 5:24 pm
signed- I do wish there was an edit feature 🙂
Bill from Wisconsin
July 11, 2018 @ 5:19 pm
Trucker hats like Scott H. Biram!!!
Music Jedi
July 10, 2018 @ 3:39 pm
Amen!!
scott
July 11, 2018 @ 5:30 am
If you do shirts, and I hope you do, don’t forget us full figured boys! A 4x SCM shirt would be like a billboard!
SAC
July 10, 2018 @ 11:29 am
Here, here! As Editor-in-Chief and author, you alone get to choose the content. If a reader’s needs are not satisfied, they can go elsewhere. I love the reviews, but don’t think you need more and agree that not every album deserves a review.
North Woods Country
July 10, 2018 @ 11:34 am
I don’t have a problem with your review process. If I have any criticisms it’s that sometimes you bypass important albums for some reason. I’ve mentioned Wade Bowen’s most recent album several times. I felt the same about Will Hoge’s Small Town Dreams a couple years ago.
Rob
July 10, 2018 @ 11:37 am
Trigger you suck. Lol no keep up the good work. I don’t agree with all of your reviews, but you sure as hell have introduced me to some great artists like Cody Jinks, Sturgill Simpson, and Chris Stapleton before they caught fire the way they did. I enjoy this site and keep up with it almost daily. Don’t let the assholes stress you out.
Montanaman
July 11, 2018 @ 7:01 pm
It’s great that Trig has introduced us to those you mention before they got big and we would have discovered them anyway. It’s nice to get in on the ground floor. Too me at least though I really appreciate getting introduced to those that may never be big, or at least not for a while, like Mike and the Moonpies, Tim Culpepper, Sarah Shook, Joshua Hedley and too many others to name. I really don’t know how else I would find all these gems in the rough. Sirius XM Outlaw Country has helped in this regard as well, but not to the same extent.
Pedals Down
July 10, 2018 @ 12:17 pm
Trigg, you kill it on the album reviews. Most of us have a pretty grounded understanding of the effort you put into the album reviews and why it contributes to the shear number you can publish. If I had one recommendation, take it or leave it, would be a weekly compilation of all notable albums in our umbrella of genres and sub-genres we call our own to be published weekly. I can’t speak for the ease or difficulty of this task, hell, it doesn’t even have to be it’s own article but may a posting at the end of a weekly album review listing the new albums you’ve came across. I know you’ve done similar postings previously but I’d kill to have a solid list of singles, EP’s, and albums released weekly! Keep fighting the good fight, brother.
JB-Chicago
July 10, 2018 @ 12:47 pm
I know I’ve said it before on here in other threads but this is the only serious Country music site there is and Trig’s reviews are the best in the business even when I don’t agree. Reviewing albums, if done right is a tedious process. It takes a massive amount of time and energy. We all see how many albums/singles come out every week. This site and everyone on it has changed my musical life. Sadly, I don’t remember the day I found it or why I came. I just know it was later than I would’ve liked. Every day I come, read, and learn. I still go back and read old reviews and say to myself…..”what was I thinking back then and where was I?”. This site is fine just the way it is and The Row knows it.
Jim Z.
July 10, 2018 @ 12:48 pm
Whether
not
weather
AltCountryFanatic
July 10, 2018 @ 1:33 pm
First time posting, and to echo the above, I appreciate everything you do. I’ve been coming daily for about a year, and have been exposed to so much great music that I would have never otherwise heard about. No one I know in real life knows who any of these artists are, so the internet is really my only means of finding new albums and artists.
And, ultimately, I trust your judgement. If you say a band is great, I almost invariably agree. It makes things easy vs wading through every release that comes out myself. I would never have known who Mike And The Moonpies were without you, and now I own and cherish their entire output.
For me personally, I like the reviews and artist spotlights a lot more than the rants, but I appreciate it all.
One other thing to mention is that I enjoy the comments almost as much as the articles. I’ve discovered tons of great artists not mentioned by an article, but discussed in the comments. So thanks to everyone for that!
Chandler
July 10, 2018 @ 1:39 pm
I would love to see more vintage album reviews on here. I read one a few weeks back on a Willie Nelson album and I did a search for other vintage album reviews and I found one that you did on a George strait album. I enjoyed both.
Jimmys Carhartt
July 10, 2018 @ 1:52 pm
I found this site years ago and have been following ever since. I don’t read every review, and not everything you recommend is my cup of tea, but I’m glad you review so much. My music consumption has gradually shifted to the point that most of what I listen to I’ve discovered from your reviews:
Cody Jinks, Turnpike Troubadours, Tyler Childers, Sam Outlaw, Sturgill, Mike and the Moonpies, John Baumann, Parker Mccollom, Lukas Nelson, Erik Dylan, Brandon Jenkins, Tim Culpepper, Dillon Carmichael, Jason Boland, Wade Bowen, Luke Bell, Jay Bragg, Lori mcKenna, Whitney Rose, BJ Barham, Chris Stapleton, John Prine, Blackberry Smoke, Josh Ward, Aaron Watson, Cody Johnson, Flatland Cavalry, the brother brothers, Justin Wells, Colter Wall, Caitlyn Smith, Ward Davis, Shinyribs, Reckless Kelly, Corb Lund, Brandi Carlile, Whitey Morgan.
I discovered them all here. Thank you for all you do. It makes a hell of a difference.
Rita Ballou
July 10, 2018 @ 1:54 pm
I’ve never once read an album review. I’m here for the comments. 😂
Richard Hinton
July 10, 2018 @ 2:05 pm
I count on this site for new music recommendations. I am here nearly daily. I usually get, or at least listen to, every song on the playlist. Keep doing what you are doing.
Travis
July 10, 2018 @ 4:06 pm
I really enjoy nearly all the articles on this site but remember it was the album review of Slackeye Slim’s El Santo Grial that was the starting point of my nearly daily visits here. That was back in 2011 (I had to just look it up) and I was searching for a review after listening to the album and being blown away. I had stumbled across the site a few times before, and back then, you couldn’t find well written articles on those types of underground bands anywhere else. There were a few podcasts but I really enjoy reading the written reviews. I’ve been continually impressed since I stumbled across the site and am happy to have known about this site for so long. It’s brought me a ton of enjoyment, all at no cost. How can anyone complain. Awesome work!
mn
July 10, 2018 @ 4:19 pm
I think the part of the reason everyone wants more reviews, is that you review good music that we like.
We can’t go to radio or mainstream outlets to find these bands – but you’re digging in the ditches to find us the good stuff.
I’d suggested this before, so dunno if you just didn’t like the idea or didn’t see it – but when you post about a horrible song, or something shit (like Nelly), how about putting in an Ear Bleach section at the bottom.
You can suggest an album or song for people to listen to, but something that you either won’t have time to review, or didn’t give you enough inspiration for a full review.
All it would need is a one-liner, something like: Today’s ear bleach: Erick Willis – Flood Gate
Love to hear what you think….
albert
July 10, 2018 @ 4:35 pm
In my opinion , the best part of album reviews on SCM is the discussion that ensues . Not the artist , not the product , not Trigger’s take or rating, just the always- surprising variance of opinions , the emotions ( or lack there-of ) in a response when Trigger or someone else hits a musical nerve . It’s just downright inspiring to hear from so many people for whom music is so important to have in their lives . As the glut of product and the generally short-to-no -attention – span of an upcoming generation marches on , it’s important to stop the merry-go-round long enough to REALLY digest a musical offering and offer up our thoughts if only as a reminder that we still CAN and there are others interested . Its important to bring peoples’ attention to ‘ the good stuff ‘ complete with a rationale as to why one might consider it as such .
Trigger’s site gives us ALL a place to share , to rant , to praise , to dissect , digest , to disagree and to keep the artists honest .
The Other Wayne
July 10, 2018 @ 4:35 pm
Your site has been so great for me in my discovery of new music for nearly five years now. By the way, I am a trained journalist and if the independent one-man-blog life ever becomes too much work, just let me know because I’m willing to help out.
EW in DFW
July 10, 2018 @ 5:08 pm
I found SCM after seeing Sturgill on Conan in 2014 and digging for everything I could find on him. I enjoy the SCM spotify playlist very much but I don’t care if you review any albums. When you make a list of bands or mention an artist, that is all I need to check them out on my own. You always direct people to the good-good and I have purchased many albums and seen many artists live that you have recommended.
HayesCarll23
July 10, 2018 @ 5:39 pm
I didn’t read it.
Novaflow10
July 10, 2018 @ 5:52 pm
Trigger, my man, I understand we all get frustrated at times, and I understand sometimes we don’t feel appreciated as much as we should be appreciated. However, unfortunately, that’s the world we live in. The website you have created provides an alternative avenue to those seeking music on the outer fringe. Your website provides a gateway to underground country music, the honky-tonks and the saloons that we cannot get to. You’ve opened my mind, and provided me the opportunity to hear good music that I would have never heard without your webpage. You’re always going to have the negative with the positive. Your website is one of the few websites I go to on a regular bases. I appreciate the time and energy that you put into this webpage. Final note, if you could find a way to incorporate music into a podcast, that would roll into my daily listening along side Rogan and The MeatEater podcast.
Trigger
July 10, 2018 @ 8:23 pm
I wouldn’t say it’s not being appreciated as much as being completely mischaracterized. I can deal with under-appreciation. But to labor at writing so many reviews only to be hounded down over and over about how all I do is post about Sam Hunt gets real old.
Clyde
July 10, 2018 @ 6:33 pm
The article was a bit long to be called a “note.” Regardless, it should be required reading for anyone new to the site.
I found this site doing the search “Why does Country Music today suck so much?” The first link that popped up was SCM, and I’ve been reading ever since. I’ve looked for other good Country Music sites and they do not exist. This is the only one. I very much appreciate what you do Trigger.
Basement dwellers of the world unite!
Black Boots
July 10, 2018 @ 6:45 pm
I suggest doing a bi-weekly or bi-monthly “album blurbs” kinda thing where you just write a paragraph on 5-10 albums that you’ve been jamming.
idk, just an idea
KGD
July 10, 2018 @ 7:01 pm
Check it multiple times a day when I get a moment at work.
Complained a a couple of times about albums that didn’t get reviewed.
Then I took a good look at just how damn much content you produce and how much time it must take and how much I learn and decided to zip it.
Because, hell, we all know I’m going to buy that new Elizabeth Cook album anyway. 😀
Keep on keeping on.
Todd Olsen
July 10, 2018 @ 7:13 pm
SERIOUSLY your aim is true. Who cares what anyone says or complains about. You can’t waste your time trying to please everyone. Or anyone other than yourself. Stick to your mission and don’t bother with anyone else. Please!
hoptowntiger94
July 10, 2018 @ 7:43 pm
I come very day, sometimes 3x a day, like I have everyday for the last 10 years for the album reviews and to discover new music.
Where’s my shirt?
Mickey
July 10, 2018 @ 8:30 pm
I understand completely where you’re coming from, and can definitely see the limitations of a blogger when faced with a whole industry of music performances and recordings upon which to comment and review.
I’m guessing that some of your readers are a lot like me, visiting SCM in search for reviews because we are hoping to find a reliable, intelligent, and experienced critic to help navigate the bewildering body of recorded music and live performances that are being produced on a daily basis. Would you have any specific advice on where we might be able to find additional sources of reviews, criticism, and guidance, or how we might be able to do so for ourselves?
Barry Cheevers
July 10, 2018 @ 8:50 pm
Understood. I want to offer my thoughts on this below quote from the article.
“Being honest and critical regardless of the popularity of these opinions is built into the very founding principles of Saving Country Music and it’s business model. The point is not to be a well-liked site, but an effective vehicle for positive change in the music marketplace. The emphasis is in increasing the flock, not preaching to the choir.”
Honesty, criticality, and positive change used as a tool to increase the flock is a great and powerful thing. As a community, I feel like we often miss the mark on this here in the articles and comments, specifically in when discussing pop-country, which is indeed terrible. And I am all for calling them out from time to time when needed, It just seems that we often get too vulgar and hateful, and while it draws attention to the site, it seems it is often negative attention that drives the outside folks away, instead of keeping them around long enough to discover some goodness music they are not familiar with. I just feel like sometimes we can all do a better job at “increasing the flock”. Granted, on the flip side, I notice this style of bashing pop country is what has gained the site many loyal readers. I just think we could be keeping more people around if we weren’t always in attack mode, but more constructive with the deserved criticism towards pop country.
At the end of the day, yes, it’s Trig’s site, and he will do as he wishes with it. Despite my own negative views on things from time to time here, I am still grateful for the amount of music I discover from this site.
Cheers from Cheevers.
Texas Music Jim
July 10, 2018 @ 9:09 pm
Kyle you do one helluva job and you are freakin’ human!!! Thanks for all you do sir!!!
JohnS
July 10, 2018 @ 9:37 pm
I’ve been a reader of SCM for some time now. I think 5 years, but I have not been so eager to say what’s on my mind until the last few. I was convinced that I joined the music industry in 2014 because I went to an online college that focuses onto the business concept, but in reality, some people in the industry or just people that I know can either call me a “super fan” or just an honest person who likes to chip into some shows or get onto guest lists just for being kind to people. I just like to see it all as part of networking, and I enjoy discovering the new music and opinions of more of what I already know from SCM. I won’t lie, but when I first started reading here, I used to follow the pop country radio songs like they mattered the most, but after I realized that there are fans of actual country music (not just the old stuff), I started liking SCM and the actual country music more and more and became less and less interested in the mainstream radio market. Now I don’t agree with all of what it posted here, but like what the point says, I don’t have to. And in a way, that is a good thing. I actually become less interested in most mainstream things (I’d wanna say “mainstream everything” but I still watch mainstream movies and shows, and play mainstream games from time to time or more often) But reading SCM helps me and has helped me ground myself some much.
And hopefully I get to keep at least reading it in the future.
albert
July 10, 2018 @ 11:48 pm
right on john …..THIS is what choice and perspective can do for someone interested in simply growing
Val Halla
July 11, 2018 @ 1:34 am
There is nothing more valued across the world and throughout history as the written word – even back to when written communication was pictorial. Maybe because ideas are presented to nearly every indivudual through their own internal perception and voice, as they process the idea without distraction from the presenter, so the communication is already received internally. The logical conclusion from this is that people will reflect themselves into your writing as they read it. So just rememer this for every complaint you receive… it is impossible that the complaint could actually be directed at you – and inevitable that the complaints will come from the reader but also (even without the awareness of the fact) will be of the reader and most likely reflecting the reader back at themselves. If anything you are providing your truth as an opportunity for others to come closer to observing their own. And for that the universe itself is grateful to you 😉🤗 but i also like reading an organized group of information, ideas, and news coming out of a music scene thriving on merits of authenticity. Because a world that could hold up ideals of authenticity and integrity as highly as the music scene you shine a light on, would be my own personal utopia. So that is my own reflection being put into your blog…. and it also gives me moments of joy and opportunities for learning at times, and what else can a person ask for from a written blog!? 😎🤘 keep on keepin on.
Ayo
July 11, 2018 @ 3:22 am
I am among those that come here solely for the album reviews. You’re more like my country music Pitchfork. Thank you for the good work.
Rene
July 11, 2018 @ 3:35 am
I come to this site everyday, everyday!, to read about good country music and discover new artists. You are doing a fantastic job. I have discovered so many wonderful artists that I would never have discovered without this site. Let haters and complainers, be haters and complainers. Just keep doing what you are doing. Please.
Also, I really enjoy the comments section here, which to my opinion is much more positive then on many other websites (music related or otherwise), and often with good insightful posts as well as recommendations for artists not necessarily review on the site. Awesome!
Thanks, a fan of country music and this website from Copenhagen, Denmark.
Bill
July 11, 2018 @ 5:00 am
I appreciate what you do including the album reviews. It is impossible to keep up with all the new and under the radar acts out there and your reviews have turned me on to a lot of music I never would have heard of much less gone out and purchased their albums. I also enjoy the commentary about not only these artists but also the more mainstream artists some of whom I have gone back and listened to with a different perspective. Don’t know how you have the time to do what all you do but hope you keep on keepin’ on.
Moe
July 11, 2018 @ 5:13 am
I think ultimitely you are trying to champion all the overlooked or underappeciated country music artists that mostly don’t get played on “country music radio” I think you have done a great job of that. I like when i see comments about people finding out about an artist because of a review or mention on your blog. I too get suggestions from your posts. Nowadays with all the competition for the fans attention, artists can use all the help they can get to get their music heard.
scott
July 11, 2018 @ 5:35 am
Been coming here a few times a day for 4-5 years, not sure how I found the site. Doesn’t matter. I read everything you post. Love the rants, enjoy the reviews. I have found artists that I love, would never have known about without SCM. Keep up the good fight!
The Original WTF Guy
July 11, 2018 @ 6:18 am
As a 56 year old who *never* thought he would be listening to as much country music as he does, this place has been a Godsend. In the early 90s I found Uncle Tupelo and the Jayhawks and went from there to a myriad other “alt country/no depression” bands. But with the increase in visibility of country music brought on by GARTH!!! and others this music sort of got lost. I got back in through the Drive By Truckers and Jason Isbell but most of the artists I find myself listening to these days are from here. And even if they are not (e.g., I knew who Miranda Lambert was) I listen to because of a recommendation made by Trigger.
I was told in the early days of my career that if you are not pissing some people off you are doing something wrong. Do what you do and don’t worry about what people think. The minute what others think becomes more important than what you think you are on the road to wherever the fuck Sam Hunt lives.
Jim L.
July 11, 2018 @ 6:54 am
It’s OK and highly recommended to take a vacation every now and then. You certainly deserve it. Thanks for all you do. You’ve totally changed my music appreciation and listening habits over the past several years. Sarah Shook, Turnpike, Dillon Carmichael, Parker Millsap, Lindi Ortega, etc. – – never would have known about these amazing artists if not for you!
And when you
Jim L.
July 11, 2018 @ 6:59 am
Stupid tablet… And when you do take some time off, there’s a couple Kasey Chambers albums to enjoy. Sorry, couldn’t resist.
Also, if I run into you at AmericanaFest, dinner and drinks are on me. Take care my friend.
71dude
July 11, 2018 @ 7:17 am
I started being subjected to “country” radio about four years ago, having never heard a Luke Bryan or FGL track in my life, and I looked for sympathy online. That’s probably how I found this site and it’s been a gold mine ever since. In addition to all the new names you’ve introduced me to I’ve stepped up my appreciation of Alan Jackson, George Strait, Charley Pride and Don Williams over the last two years. While there’s one beloved legendary name I still don’t care for (but his kid is great) I’m clearly in the minority here so I just look the other way. I’ve got some personal favorites that would be considered cringeworthy anyway. I have things I wish you would review but I don’t nag and if they don’t end on the worst-of-year list I’ll just assume you like them. Now if you could clone yourself and start a Saving Rock Music site…
CountryKnight
July 11, 2018 @ 10:42 am
Hopefully, this article stops that incessant complaint. But knowing humanity, it won’t.
Cindy Lee
July 11, 2018 @ 11:12 am
Very well said. We appreciate the reviews! Keep them coming! Have you ever thought about getting other people involved in what you’re doing to help with reviews and other Country Music related research? I’m sure there are people out there who would gladly volunteer to help you out and provide some awesome feedback on Country music. There are a whole hell of a lot of people out there who share your views. If you could find a couple of them and bring them aboard, it might help to lighten your load a bit! Just a thought….
Also, here in the PA, WVA, OH area there is an up and coming band called “Dinnerbell Road”. I’m pretty sure they are somewhere out of PA. Anyway they have a song called “Play Me A Song” and the mesage of the song sort of encapsulates some of the stuff you talk about on this website. I can’t believe you haven’t mentioned it yet!! Pretty cool song and I know they are starting to get a lot of attention. At least around here. Anyway, thought you might enjoy the song. Keep doing what you’re doing and we’ll keep reading!
Big Red
July 11, 2018 @ 11:14 am
Well, sir, I’ve been coming here a few times a week for more years than I can remember. Obviously, I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t respect what I read.
I’d love to see more bluegrass covered, but completely understand why it isn’t. (Heck, Bluegrass as genre would be difficult to cover as it’s so big in and of itself.) I do appreciate the small coverage it does receive as it’s usually noteworthy things within the genre (like IBMA coverage, for instance.)
I think the site is a great source of album reviews: both for finding new and less mainstream artists but also for getting honest reviews of mainstream artists. I can read some of the grief you get in the comments from reviewing someone like Brad Paisley as above average; I can only imagine the emails you get. Your reviews, though, are deep and well written (despite the occasional misspelling), even handed, and fair.
I also appreciate that you don’t regurgitate the press releases and pre-written crap when doing news articles. No doubt, you could save yourself a lot of time doing a simple copy/paste.
And I’ll admit that the awards show live blogs are my favorite part of the site. My wife, who’s a bigger fan of pop-country than I am, enjoys watching them. Your snark and sarcasm make the shows not just bearable, but fun.
So, sir, keep on doing the good work. Remember the haters will always be louder than the fans. We may not always speak up, but we’re here, reading and listening to the music you introduce us to.
NJ
July 11, 2018 @ 4:54 pm
It’s very difficult to find any long-form writing on any topic these days, but particularly country music. It’s even more difficult to find critical analysis in this time of group-think, group-outrage, and adverts disguised as content.
I can’t recall how I ended up here, most likely something to do with Dwight Yoakam, but I read almost every word you write. So while I don’t always agree with your position (particularly last years SCM Song of the Year which was a truly awful cringefest), and I rarely comment, I appreciate the effort required to generate such thoughtful, considered content, day in day out.
Janice Brooks
July 11, 2018 @ 7:29 pm
My online presence as Internet Station “Bus of Real Country” has also been just over 10 years. Saving Country Music has and continues to be one of my most important resources for news. Independent artists news is vital here.
Stringbuzz
July 12, 2018 @ 10:31 am
Trigger,
I’ve actually been curious about your album review process.
How much time you put in.
How do you divide up your time with what you are reviewing and just want to listen to?
Then time for writing.
Do you dictate, do you type?
Just curious about how you go about things.
Trigger
July 12, 2018 @ 4:59 pm
I very rarely get to listen to anything for pure enjoyment these days, maybe every once in a while when I’m on a road trip. Otherwise I spend most any waking available hour cramming music into my brain. When I’m cooking, cleaning, driving, doing chores, mowing the lawn, etyc., and when I’m not listening, I’m writing, usually about 72-80 hours a week.
I mostly write, but sometimes again if I’m driving on a long road trip, I will compose some articles while driving.
How much time for each record varies greatly. Sometimes I listen two times through, spot listen to a few things, and then have it down. Average is probably four or five full listens, with a few days to ponder, then spot listening when I’m writing the review. Reviews are by far the most time consuming thing I write as opposed to some think pieces that take a lot of research. Since I write so many of them, it’s hard not to comes across as cliche. Album reviews are inherently boring and cliche, so it takes a lot of effort to write a good one.
JB-Chicago
July 13, 2018 @ 6:16 pm
That’s sad you don’t have the time to enjoy the music you’re helping save and promote to it’s fullest. I know for me when an album makes my rotation it stays possibly for months until I cycle out of it, I learn it, I live it, I try and go see it played live if possible and that’s why I rarely have more than 7-9 in rotation. All the while still trying to listen to the new stuff (singles, EP’s, full albums) everyone’s releasing, loving, and bitching about etc… because I don’t want to ever miss what could be incredible. We thank you for the sacrifice you make, no one does it as good as you Trig. No one.
YearOfGlad
July 12, 2018 @ 5:49 pm
Trig,
The paragraph here about Facebook :
Greatly complicating this issue is Facebook’s algorithm.
…
Is as direct and real description of why people think that Everything Sucks These Days, as any I have read.
Good stuff that’s true is unfortunately way less interesting in the short term than outrageous bullshit. I come to your site because I appreciate the former, and despise the latter.
Carry on.
YoG
Bear
July 13, 2018 @ 4:36 pm
I don’t even remember how I found your site but as somebody who does his own music show I know the amount of work it takes. It is your life. And it is a great service. And much of what I have read here I have taken and applied to other suffering genres that need saving.
I am slightly disheartened however that you have little free time to just listen to good music without some agenda behind it. Thankfully much of what you have to listen to seems halfway decent.
Maybe one can hope there will come a time when country music need not be saved. LOL! Wishful thinking.
Dave Mcandrew
July 20, 2018 @ 7:10 pm
The site is perfect trigger. Those that don’t like the format can pound sand. You are the only true voice/platform left for the kind of music I love. Your reviews lead me to new option, keep going.