+ Indianapolis roots-rock guy Jeff Byrd has formed a new band, and we should start to hear some music from them soon. Fans of the Gear Daddies and BoDeans will like what he’s putting together. Byrd’s most recent release was in 2008, an album called Stereoville.
+ Gamblin’ Christmas has been busy recording a third release, and have added hosting duties on the first Friday Hillbilly Happy Hour of every month at the Melody Inn. Watch for the folk duo with the sweet Everly Brother harmonies to be posting songs from the new album as they finish mixing. The website is gamblinchristmas.com.
+ Watch for two good shows June 4 (next Friday): alt-country darlin’ Elizabeth Cook at Spencer’s Stadium Tavern and former Drive-By Trucker Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit rock at Radio Radio. More on both shows early next week.
+ Hank Williams III’s new album “Rebel Within” is out. It’s the final record for Curb Records, and the rocky relationship will end.
In an interview with Outlaw Radio Chicago, he said “It’s got the slow ones, it’s got the fast ones, and a little attitude. Hopefully they’ll see that I gave them a good record. I could have gave them nothing but static and noise and been like ‘Ah, here ya go, it’s been nice knowing you.’ But I gave them a good record man.”