Dave Alvin’s “dead” brother Phil returns for another rootsy splash in the river of life

By Steve Newton Three years ago, American roots-rock great Dave Alvin had the fright of his life. His older brother Phil—with whom he’d shared many a van, hotel room, and stage over the years in the Blasters—damn near passed away while on tour in Spain. In fact, he was technically toast. “He couldn’t breathe on-stage,” … Continue reading Dave Alvin’s “dead” brother Phil returns for another rootsy splash in the river of life

Ray Bonneville hits his stride with Juno-winning Gust of WInd

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN THE GEORGIA STRAIGHT, APRIL 6, 2000 BY STEVE NEWTON Only two songs into Ray Bonneville’s new CD, Gust of Wind, and I’m starting to think: “This guy reminds me of someone.” There’s a familiar timbre to his laid-back vocals, and the gently percolating blues rings a bell. I’ve got it! Eric Clapton, … Continue reading Ray Bonneville hits his stride with Juno-winning Gust of WInd