Christian Schaeffer

It's safe to say that no one else has had the kind of musical career that Randy Newman has. He began as a behind-the-scenes songwriter, penning hits for singers such as Jerry Butler and Irma Thomas. Despite unassuming looks, a froggy, drawling delivery and a penchant for featuring reprehensible characters...

With movie-star good looks and a knack for alternating hushed and forceful harmonies, it's no surprise that Joy Williams and John Paul White of the Civil Wars have been playing to sold-out crowds on their cross-country tours (including this date at the Fox Theatre). The act occupies the space between...

There's a darkness on the edge of Lucero's town. The foursome comes from Memphis, which seems a million miles away from the golden smile of Nashville -- at least in light of the act's defiantly titled new album, Nobody's Darlings. On the disc, Lucero works solidly in the Uncle Tupelo...

John Vanderslice has always brought a cinematic flair to his storytelling techniques. His best songs double as short films, with enough of a story line to get you hooked, and enough mystery to keep you guessing. Pixel Revolt uses these juxtapositions to great effect: "Exodus Damage" segues from reports of...

"Fuckin' A" may be the most wonderfully ridiculous expletive around these days. Is it self-censorship of that unutterable "A"? And what the hell is the "A," anyhow? Perplexing. But given that the Thermals may be the most wonderfully ridiculous punk-rockers around these days, it's fitting that the act's latest record,...