“Hand Picked, Volume One” is Twang Brand Music’s first tribute to Americana Roots Country. A well-stocked jukebox of Honky-Tonk neon, back porch pickin’, and Sunday morning redemption, showcasing 17 different bands and singers that are currently flying under the radar. The heart, soul and inspiration for “Hand Picked” is the now legendary KFAT radio station that used to broadcast from Gilroy, California some 30 years ago. A passion for real country music without loosing sight of having a good time. No irony but plenty of irreverence. For example, “Hand Picked” is rather proud that we have the only bluegrass song we know of that has a radio advisory. (There’s one naughty word in it.) For the most part “Hand Picked” is roadhouse music. Songs you would hear on Saturday night if you were lucky enough to catch one of these bands tearing it up in Phoenix, or Austin, or Portland, or Stillwater.

“Hand Picked” is a beer-stained map with roadside attractions like Austin swing music from Geetar Player Jim Stringer (Wayne Hancock, Asleep At The Wheel), broke-down love affair honky-tonking from Americana poster boy Dave Insley, and bluegrass weirdness from Poor Man’s Whiskey. Two of America’s great steel players, Al Perkins (Jimmy Dale Gilmore, Jim Lauderdale, Flying Burrito Brothers) and Buddy Cage (New Riders of the Purple Sage, Brooklyn Cowboys) also make appearances on “Hand Picked.” RL Burnside-flavored southern rock gets a nod from Moonshine Hangover and there’s even a tip of the ole Stetson to the Bee Gees (of all people) from Eagles collaborator Robb Strandlund.

“Hand Picked” represents the work of 22 songwriters, about 185 musicians and 17 different producers. For all the righteous flavor contributed by its better known names, the biggest treats on “Hand Picked” may be the southern fried goodies from previously overlooked talent. Hot pickin’, clever lyrics and sweet harmonies fly off “Hand Picked” like empties and roaches flying out the back of a 1971 Cadillac El Dorado convertible. “Hand Picked” is a roots country road trip with 8 cylinders slapping under an acre and a-half of hood, blowing down a two-lane blacktop into the Americana landscape. It may not be pretty... but it damn sure is country. “Hand Picked” is currently available at this site with a PayPal secure transaction. We thank you for your time.

1. Josephine
   Mello Joy Boys (3:27)
2. The Truth (As We Know It)
   Jim Stringer and the AM Band (3:23)
3. There's Gonna Be A Few Changes
   Dave Insley (3:07)
4. Jesus Heal My Hangover
   Chevy Downs (2:53)
5. Stayin' Alive
   Robb Strandlund (5:55)
6. Lucy’s Lament
   Moonshine Hangover (3:30)
7. Lovin', Drinkin' and Gunplay
   The Bays Brothers (2:25)
8. On and On
   The Bluerunners (3:44)
9. Little Shack
   Dusty 45's (2:35)
10. Intermission
    Poor Man's Whiskey (:56)
11. You Must Be From Nashville
    Brian Waldschlager (3:54)
12. Sober
    The Little Morts (2:21)
13. Lake County Lady
    Poor Man's Whiskey (3:52)
14. My Heart's In Denial (The 12 Step 2 Step)
    The Brooklyn Cowboys (3:30)
15. Get Away Close
    Moe-D (2:48)
16. Then I Know We'll Be Alright
    Chris Cairns (3:29)
17. Llano Estacado
    Genuine Cowhide (5:25)