Saturday Night at the Oldies: Spencer’s Picks

Spencer Case thinks I need to expand my musical horizons. I don't disagree. He writes,

O.K. here are my five picks for good folk/rock music within the last ten years.

First, "The Wrote and the Writ" by Johnny Flynn, an artist I've just discovered. I chose it because of the syncopated guitar and the outstanding lyrics.

Second, "Right Moves" by Idaho's own Josh Ritter. Ritter been one of my favorites for about six years. He isn't instrumentally out of this world like some of the other artists here, but he's a great songwriter. It's hard to find a representative song for him for a first exposure, but this seems like a safe bet.
Third, "Simple as This" by Jake Bugg, another new discovery. Great lyrics.

Fourth, "Don't Need No" by Punch Brothers. I've seen these guys live and they are amazing.

Fifth, "Big Parade" by Lumineers. These guys are from Denver and actually, they are quite popular now. So not everything on this list is obscure.

As far as I'm concerned, these artists prove good music is alive and well, if under-appreciated. Interested to hear how you think they stack up.

It's good stuff, Spencer. I enjoyed 'em all. Here are some obscure tunes/renditions I think you'll enjoy if you haven't heard them already. I won't make any invidious comparisons. It's all good.

Fred Neil, The Other Side of this Life

Fred Neil, I've Got a Secret

Ry Cooder, Jesus on the Main Line

Ry Cooder, He'll Have to Go

Doc Watson, Tom Dooley

Nanci Griffith, Boots of Spanish Leather

Kate Wolf and Don Lange, Rock Salt and Nails