The Appetizer on Blogspot

New Stuff In The Works

2011-04-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who pops over to this blog periodically to check in. Our radio show blog has a permanent home! It's now at blog.appetizerradio.com. We moved our wordpress blog there so please subscribe to it and stay up to speed with the latest unknown and emerging artists we're discovering and presenting.

Also, that's where we're hosting our podcasts. So far we've done 2 new podcasts with interviews with Joy Williams from The Civil Wars and Kelley McRae. You can hear them here and here. They're hosted by our Sous-Chef Meagan Hernandez.

And we've been giving away free tickets to see local concerts in Abilene by simply being a fan of the show on Facebook (or Liking us). You can connect with us there by going to our Facebook page.

Thanks. See you soon.

The Winners Are.....

2011-03-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

If you've been holding your breath for these past 4 months to find out who won the 2010 Golden Fork Awards, then you belong in the Guinness Book of World Records and we want your autograph. Thanks for being so patient.

We had a huge response this year and want to thank everyone who participated in the voting. We're proud to announce the winners here:

2010 Appetizer Golden Fork Winner

Best Song
Trevor Hall-Lime Tree

Best Album
Elliott Park-Flyboy

Best EP/Short Album
Jerzy Jung-Hello Desire

Best New/Emerging Artist
Wyldlife

And Artist Of The Year
William Fitzsimmons

We were privileged to get to present William with his trophy March 4th in Abilene at the Paramount Theater. He was very kind to make it a part of the show that night, sitting it on his stool and referencing it throughout the concert. Other trophies will be presented/mailed to winners in the next few weeks.

Thanks again and look forward to seeing who wins this years awards.

Awards And Concerts

2011-02-28T14:38:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in the 2010 Appetizer Golden Fork voting. We'll announce the winners very shortly.

We're also collaborating with The Paramount Theater and Monks' Coffeehouse in Abilene in concerts, bringing emerging bands and artists to Abilene. The month of March is full of some great concert opportunities including William Fitzsimmons (3/5 at The Paramount), The Civil Wars (3/10 at Monks) and Andrew Belle (3/25 at Monks).

You can win a free ticket to see William Fitzsimmons by Liking The Appetizer on Facebook and suggesting The Appetizer to your friends on Facebook. The drawing for the winners will be the day before the show.

Golden Fork Awards 2010 Ballot

2010-12-30T10:46:00.000-08:00

Thanks for being a part of our annual Golden Fork Awards. Last year, fans of the show awarded Iron & Wine, The Rocketboys, and Hannah & The Bloodlines with the first ever Golden Fork Trophies. You decide who is worthy of this year's trophies. Please choose 1 selection per category and email those choices to appetizerradio@hotmail.com. Please make a selection for every category or we won't be able to accept your ballot.

Thank you.

I. Nominees for 2010 Best Song (not necessarily released in 2010 but aired during the calendar year on The Appetizer)

A. Fistful of Mercy- Restore Me
hear music at http://fistfulofmercy.com/
B. Bobby Bare Jr.- Swollen But Not The Same
hear music at artist website
C. Brandi Carlile- Pride & Joy
hear music at artist website
D. Elliott Park- She Is

E. Jaymay- Sea Green, See Blue
hear music at artist website
F. The Rocketboys- Rare Triumphs of Love and Fortune
hear music at artist website artist website
G. Trevor Hall- Lime Tree
hear music at artist website
H. (Write In)_______________________________

II. Nominees for 2010 Best Album (album released in 2010 calendar year)

A. David Gray- Foundling
www.myspace.com/davidgray

B. Citizen Cope- Rainwater EP
wwww.myspace.com/citizencope
C. Harper Blynn-Loneliest Generation
www.myspace.com/harperblynn
D. Ray LaMontagne & the Pariah Dogs-God Willing and the Creek Don't Rise
http://www.raylamontagne.com/us/home
E. Elliott Park- Flyboy
hear excerpts at artist website
F. Ryan Montbleau Band- Heavy On The Vine
www.myspace.com/ryanmontbleau
G. Danny Malone- Cuddlebug
www.dannymalone.com
H. Write In____________________

III. Nominees for 2010 Best EP/Short Album (album released in 2010 calendar year)

A. Bess Rogers- Bess Rogers Presents Bess Rogers
www.bessrogers.com
B. Jerzy Jung- Hello Desire
www.myspace.com/jerzyjung
C. The Rocketboys-Wellwisher EP
wwww.myspace.com/therocketboys
D.Brandi Carlile- XOBC EP
www.myspace.com/brandicarlile
E. Wyldlife- Nicotine EP
www.myspace.com/wyldlife7
F. Write In____________________

IV. Nominees for The Appetizer Artist Of The Year

A. William Fitzsimmons
www.myspace.com/williamfitzsimmons
B. Citizen Cope
www.myspace.com/citizencope
C. Lindsay Katt
www.myspace.com/lindsaykatt
D. Write In____________________

V. Nominees For Best New/Emerging Artist

A. Trevor Hall
www.trevorhallmusic.com
B. Dan Mangan
www.myspace.com/danmangan
C. The Weepies
www.myspace.com/theweepies
D. American Fiction
www.myspace.com/americanfictionband
E. Write In____________________

Internships Available

2010-12-10T09:15:00.000-08:00

The Appetizer is seeking interns to fulfill a variety of roles with the radio program. Interns will have the opportunity to train with radio veteran D Grant Smith in a variety of areas including interviewing, audio production, podcasting and more. Interns responsibilities also include

compiling weekly playlists for web and reporting

daily/weekly blogging on new indie artists and insights into upcoming episodes on blogspot and wordpress

audio/video podcasts with featured artist interviews and show segments

audio production for special features and segments to be included in The Appetizer broadcasts

assistance/organization in The Appetizer Street Team to promote the show at local events and music venues

marketing The Appetizer Fan Club to individuals and businesses

marketing The Appetizer for advertisers on radio and web

Those interested in an exciting internship opportunity need to send an email to dgrantsmith@gmail.com and include a resume and tell us why we should select you. Thanks.

Golden Fork 2010 Nominees Coming

2010-12-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again, where we honor some great new and emerging artists and indie musicians from across the country with the coveted Golden Fork Award. Last year's winners included Iron & Wine, The Rocketboys, and Hannah and the Bloodlines.

Instead of sending voters to a site to vote, we'll post the nominees here on the blog and ask you to email the show your selections. If you want to nominate an artist, feel free to do so here in the comment line. Thanks and see you soon!

Coming Up This Week

2010-12-03T14:12:00.000-08:00

We love folk and indie rock on The Appetizer, which is why we serve up a healthy dose nearly every week. This week, a presentation of folk and indie rock from artists like John Doe and the Sadies, Ari Hest, Sufjan Stevens, William Fitzsimmons (a Bob Dylan cover no less), Twyla Foreman, Trevor Hall and much more. Playlists can be requested by emailing our host at dgrantsmith@gmail.com.

More information on the Appetizer artists featured this week under Featured Artists at our website.

We'll get into the feeling of the season starting next week with the first hour of A Very Merry Feast. Join us.

The Appetizer is heard
Saturdays at 3P on 91.3 KVLU-1 in Beaumont
Saturdays at 9P on 89.7 KACU in Abilene
Sundays at 9P on 90.5 KTRL in Stephenville

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Wordpress and join our Fan Club to get exclusive Appetizer merchandise (click on Membership) at www.appetizerradio.com

Appetizer Artist Bess Rogers Doing Big Things

2010-12-02T07:40:00.000-08:00

It's always a great thing to celebrate the successes of the people we've been blessed to get to know over the years. Bess Rogers is one such example. This year she released a fantastic record titled "Bess Rogers Presents Bess Rogers." We've featured several of the new tracks on The Appetizer. She's done a bit of touring this fall and will spend December touring with Ingrid Michaelson (she's Ingrid's guitarist for those not in the know), and will do some shows on the east coast with indie artist Ari Hest (who will be on this weekend's episode of The Appetizer). This afternoon, we'll speak with Bess and get some insights on her goings-on. We'll add the chat to our podcast. Until then, dine on this great new video from Bess.

Indie Music Meets Santa

2010-12-01T08:19:00.000-08:00

Christmas time seems to have an earlier start every year. It's kind of hard for some of us to get into the Christmas spirit and season before Thanksgiving has even happened. But now that December is here, we will start getting in the mood for sleigh bells, cider, and the celebration of love and giving.

December's selection of Music on The Appetizer will consist of some surprises, a few new artists, some great indie flavors and some season's savory tastes mixed into the batch. We'll conclude the month and year with a very special Appetizer Christmas, a collection of more traditional Christmas songs performed in nontraditional styles.

We'll conclude our Folk/Light Rock mix in the first weekend with some great flavors of music from indie artists Ari Hest, Sufjan Stevens, Jill Andrews, William Fitzsimmons and introducing Twyla Foreman out of Abilene, Tx.

Starting on December 11th we'll begin a 2 week special entitled, A Merry Feast, consisting of Christmas tunes from indie artists like The Rocketboys, Coolfield, Miss Kristin and well-known acts like Otis Redding, Emery, A Fine Frenzy and much more. Join us!

The Appetizer is heard Saturdays at 3P on 91.3 KVLU-1 in Beaumont, Tx; Saturdays at 9PM on 89.7 KACU in Abilene, Tx; Sundays at 9PM on 90.5 KTRL in Stephenville, Tx

Seafood

2010-09-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

There are many a tale of the sea that are told through song and music. Starting this week, we'll take a fun filled journey through music that tells tales of the ocean, water, sailors and much more. It's a special series we're calling "Seafood." Music in the series will include everything from Citizen Cope, to Flatfood 56, Iron & Wine, Johnny Horton, and much much more. Join us on The Appetizer. Station listings and schedule are available at www.appetizerradio.com

Yearly Update-Sorry about that

2010-08-13T09:53:00.001-07:00

If you haven't checked in on this blog for a while (like a year or more) because it was never updated, I apologize. We've redesigned The Appetizer website (done by Dennis Davis at Able Computers-www.ablecomputers.net), become a syndicated radio program on KACU (our host station), KVLU-1 in Beaumont and KTRL in Stephenville. We have an official theme song which is Lindsay Katt's Heart Place (check her music out and buy ALL of it at www.myspace.com/lindsaykatt). We have a voice-over man doing introductions, tags, and liners who is amazing-Mr. Paul Nixon (get him to do work for you by going to www.paulnixonvo.com).We have an indie music collaborator who is a music blogger for the Dallas Morning News-Mr. Michael Granberry (read his blogs here). We've been working closely with The Historic Paramount Theater in Abilene to bring some emerging indie artists to town for great concerts. We look forward to announcing this year's selections soon.
Again, our apologies for the delay. We've been a little busy but will work harder to keep you all updated on new music. Be sure to surf over to our other blog here for more updates, insights, and more. Thanks.

Golden Fork 2009 Winner Announcement

2010-02-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

In the next few weeks, we'll tell you who won all of the 2009 Appetizer Golden Fork Awards. As you know, we did present one winner with the first ever Golden Fork Award-Iron & Wine! Check out the pics to see our presentation to him.

Also, our blog has moved to www.theappetizer.wordpress.com

All future blog entries will be posted here.

Thanks,

D Grant

Non Traditional Christmas Music

2009-12-09T10:45:00.001-08:00

Each year I wade through an assortment of Christmas music, some decent, others not so much. When you've worked in radio longer than a few years, or more than ten, you start to dread Christmas time because you're forced to have to listen to the same 20-30 Christmas tunes each and every day for a month leading up to the holiday itself. I remember a time when "Jingle Bells" and "Silent Night" were enjoyable. It's gotten better lately, but I think you'd agree with the overplay of Christmas music.

One thing I've been on the lookout for over the past few years is Christmas music that's original and inventive. I've also been searching for interesting interpretations of classic Christmas songs, as a way to present the season's sounds and tastes to you listeners in new and creative ways. I think I've found some yummy little morsels for you this year.

Our first hour of Christmas music is coming up this week on The Appetizer, and we'll present some non-traditional and original tracks from some artists you've heard of and some you haven't. If you haven't heard Colbie Caillat's "Mistletoe," Otis Redding's "Merry Christmas Baby," or the Killers' "Don't Shoot Me Santa," then you'll definitely want to check it out.

How about Christmas classics in a new style? I'm a fan of bands taking something old and adding something new to it. Here's a taste of what I'm talking about, and something you can look forward to in our next program:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8

Vote for the 2009 Golden Fork Awards

2009-11-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

Due to our online ballot being overrun with voting, we've had to move the voting here. You can either post a comment on who you'd like to vote for in each category, or email your vote to dgrantsmith@gmail.com. If you post a comment, please include your email address for verification and communication purposes. And PLEASE PLEASE vote in ALL the categories, not just one or two. It throws off the balloting to receive a message or email with 2 votes cast in the entire ballot. Thanks.

2009 Appetizer Golden Fork Awards

1. Best Band 2009
a. The Rocketboys [listen at www.myspace.com/rocketboys]
b. Leona Naess [listen at www.leonanaess.com]
c. A Fine Frenzy [listen at www.afinefrenzy.com]
d. Thriving Ivory [listen at www.thrivingivory.com]
e. Maria Taylor [listen at www.maria-taylor.com]
f. Dashboard Confessional [listen at www.dashboardconfessional.com]
g. Write in:________________________________

2. Best Song 2009
a. Paolo Nutini-Last Request
b. Citizen Cope- 107 degrees
c. William Fitzsimmons-If You Would Come Back Home
d. The Rocketboys-We Are A Lighthouse
e. Ingrid Michaelson-Once Was Love
f. Write in:________________________________

3. Best New Artist 2009
a. Rosi Golan [listen at www.rosigolan.com]
b. Elliott Park [listen at www.elliotpark.net]
c. Vanessa Peters and Icecream on Mondays [listen at www.myspace.com/vanessapeters]
d. Hannah & The Bloodlines [listen at www.myspace.com/hannahandthebloodlines]
e. Iron & Wine [listen at www.ironandwine.com]
f. Parachute [listen at www.weareparachute.com]
g. Write in:___________________________________

4. Best New Song 2009
a. Thriving Ivory-Alien
b. Iron & Wine- 16, Maybe Less
c. A Fine Frenzy-Ashes and Wine
d. Vanessa Peters & Ice Cream on Mondays-Coming To Meet Me
e. Great Northern-Story
f. Vib Gyor-Red Lights
g. Write in:___________________________________

5. Best Appetizer Artist 2009
a. Lindsay Katt [listen at www.lindsaykatt.startlogic.com]
b. Hannah and the Bloodlines [listen at www.myspace.com/hannahandthebloodlines]
c. The Rocketboys [listen at www.myspace.com/rocketboys]
d. William Fitzsimmons [listen at www.williamfitzsimmons.com]
e. Runaway Dorothy [listen at www.runawaydorothy.com]
f. Micah P Hinson [listen at www.micahphinson.com]
g. Write in:___________________________________

6. Best Cover Song 2009
a. Iron Horse- Crazy Train
b. Anakelly-November Rain
c. Iron & Wine-Such Great Heights
d. Cris Delano-Beat It
e. John Mayer - Bold As Love
f. Petra Haden-Don't Stop Believin'
g. Write in:___________________________________

Green Music Coming Soon

2009-10-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

Being green is a big thing these days, but does it apply to music too? There are different meanings that this can take on, and the Appetizer looks to explore them in a future presentation.

Stay tuned for more details.

Great Ingredients Hr. 2

2009-09-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

We've been hard at work here at The Appetizer. This week D. Grant Smith will be presenting his 2nd hour of his Great Ingredients Series. He has great music lined up from Runaway Dorothy, Hannah & The Bloodlines, Elliot Park, Micah P. Hinson, and many more. So, as always, don't forget to tune in on Saturday nights at 9 on www.kacu.org.
Also, we would like to remind everyone that The Appetizer will be having its' Syndication/6th Birthday Party at the KACU studios (Don Morris Building) this Saturday (Sep. 26) at 8pm.
Yep, that's right we are celebrating our syndication, you can now enjoy The Appetizer from 3-4 p.m. on 91.3 KVLU-one Beaumont! So come out, and celebrate. Not only will there be great food and fun, but special guests, such as Appetizer artists, Micah P. Hinson and Elliot Park!

Have You Heard Hr. 3

2009-08-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

In this week's hour we will continue our musical journey with songs from the The Foo Fighters, Melissa Etheridge, Sting, Led Zeppelin, John Mayer, and many others.

You might be thinking, "Hey, I've heard these bands on commercial radio before!" Yes, BUT commerical radio only gives you a tiny sample of the delicious musical flavorings from these artists.

No need to fear, your host and chef, D. Grant Smith, will present a musical feast of hidden gems.

Join us at tonight, and every Saturday, at 9PM on 89.7 KACU or anywhere at www.kacu.org

Have You Heard?

2009-08-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

It's a question we'll be asking in the next several hours of the Appetizer program.

We know all too well the songs that commercial radio puts out for listeners from the best bands in the world. Too bad they only play the same 2 or 3 songs from the immense songbooks available. If you're tired of the same old song......join us for the Appetizer as we provide some heard and unheard tracks from your favorite bands.

This week, a plethora of musical flavor from Australia's Missy Higgins, Mat Kearney, Green Day, Snow Patrol, Brandi Carlile and more.

Join us at 9PM on 89.7 KACU or anywhere at www.kacu.org

Indie Insights Hour 2-William Fitzsimmons Feature

2009-08-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite Appetizer artists is William Fitzsimmons. We met William in 2007 and have kept up with his tours and his records. We were even fortunate enough to meet him in Dallas earlier this year. Coming up on Saturday night, we'll talk with William again about his tour with Rosi Golan that ended in the late spring and his new tour that's going on now, his new live EP, and the progression of his songwriting.

Also, we'll taste some great new indie flavor from around the country like Jerzy Jung, Matt Costa, Department of Eagles and more. Join us.

The Appetizer is heard Saturdays at 9PM on 89.7 KACU in Abilene, TX or anywhere at www.kacu.org

Indie Insights

2009-08-07T07:03:00.000-07:00

Over the next two weeks, we'll be featuring a great assortment of delectable flavors from around the country.

The independent music coming out all over the place is taking the music world by storm. In our first hour, we'll showcase new musical tastes from One Sad Horse, Phoenix, Runaway Dorothy, Kathleen Edwards and more.

Plus, we'll spend a little time getting to know a new Appetizer artist, Hannah and the Bloodlines. This group out of Boston has a new debut album called "Far From The Tree." We'll hear some of their music and speak with lead singer Hannah Sumner.

Tune in to The Appetizer Saturday at 9P on 89.7 KACU in Abilene, TX or anywhere at www.kacu.org

Listen to our podcast with Hannah and the Bloodlines at www.songwriterscookbook.mypodcast.com

Take Cover Concludes with the Boss and the Lizard King

2009-07-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

Our Cover series has taken us down new roads and discovered new and innovative reinterpretations of our favorite songs.

We conclude with a program focusing on songwriters and covering legends like Bruce Springsteen and The Doors.

Playlists and more available at www.appetizerradio.com

Join us Saturday at 9PM on 89.7 KACU in Abilene, TX or anywhere at www.kacu.org

Take Cover-Pop Hits

2009-07-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

Our Cover Series continues with a look a great Pop hits from years past. We'll hear reinterpretations of hits from Britney Spears, Cyndi Lauper, Flock Of Seagulls and much more.

While we've been inundated with Michael Jackson in the news following his death a few weeks ago, the focus has shifted from his impact in the many realms of music to the cause of his death, and possible people involved in that.

We're not going to travel down that path this week. What we're going to do, is look at how Jackson influenced more genres of music than just popular styles, and hear some reinterpretations of his hits in the flavors of jazz, alternative rock, rockabilly and bossa nova.

Our cover series concludes next week. Stay tuned for more information.

Tune in to the Appetizer Saturdays at 9PM on 89.7 KACU in Abilene, TX or online at www.kacu.org.

If your city doesn't have the Appetizer, call your local public radio station and let them know you want to hear it in your town.

Our Take Cover Series Returns With Rock Classics

2009-07-09T12:32:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, when we spend a little time showcasing the tribute artform known as cover songs. This week, we kick off our 4 hour series keying in on rock classics in a new way.

We'll cover tracks from Guns 'N Roses, Lynrd Skynyrd, Ozzy Osbourne, Bruce Springsteen and more with new interpretations in styles like folk, jazz, fusion, lounge, bluegrass and more.

Our feature this week will be a look at the influence of guitar icon Jimi Hendrix, and the permanent impression he made on the world of rock, blues, psychedelic music and jazz styles. We have Hendrix covers from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Mayer, The Corrs and more to showcase the phenomenal musicianship of this guitar hero.

Join us Saturday at 9PM for the Appetizer from Abilene Public Radio on 89.7 FM in Abilene, TX or anywhere at www.kacu.org

New Podcast Up

2009-07-08T13:05:00.000-07:00

The Appetizer is your source for new and up and coming artists from across the country. Recently, our host D Grant Smith was privileged enough to speak with Hannah Sumner, the lead singer for Hannah & the Bloodlines out of Boston, MA. They have a really groovy sound and a debut album out called "Far From The Tree." Check out the podcast at www.songwriterscookbook.mypodcast.com

More Hidden Treasures

2009-07-02T10:25:00.003-07:00

Last week we looked at some bite-sized portions of music's great flavors, some from people you know and others from those you don't. We're continuing on that theme this week with some more "Hidden Treasures."

Folk rock has a lot of people talking, and even more listening to these well-crafted seasonings coming from places all over the world. Tune in to The Appetizer this week for some luscious delights from Malaysian singer-songwriter Zee Avi and a cut from her 2009 release called The Story.

Also, Appetizer artist Bess Rogers and a selection from her recent Travel Back EP called "Yellowbird." You can hear Bess talk about the album and hear pieces of the it on our podcast at www.songwriterscookbook.mypodcast.com

We also have some great hidden treasures from signed artists like England's Sandi Thom, Fiona Apple, U2, Third Eye Blind, Jimmy Eat World and much more.

Join us at the table Saturday at 9PM on 89.7 FM in Abilene, TX or online anywhere at www.kacu.org

More Hidden Treasures

2009-07-02T10:25:00.001-07:00

Hidden Treasures

2009-06-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

How often do we miss great music found in the albums of "hit" radio artists because it wasn't one of the top 40 singles on the radio? All too often I'm afraid. In the next two weeks, we'll remedy that with some "Hidden Treasures."

We have some brand new flavors to introduce to you from up and coming acts like Trespassers William, we'll hear music from their album "Having," featuring a smooth folk blend you're sure to enjoy. Also, new acts like Porlolo, Hockey, and Great Northern.

Also, while we love spending most of our program highlighting acts that haven't received national attention, we're still fans of hit artists, we just love all of their music and not just the hit singles. One band still making great music after spending a while in national prominence is the Dave Matthews Band. These guys suffered some tragedy recently and the subsequent result has been an inspiring new record called "Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King." Check out this link for a video with insight into the band's current state. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7iMjcnKzyQ&feature=channel

Also, we have hidden treasures from The Boss and a concert recording he did with Rage Against The Machine's Tom Morello.

All this and more coming up on the Appetizer, from Abilene Public Radio
Saturday at 9PM on 89.7 FM in Abilene, TX or anywhere at www.kacu.org

Comedy 2009

2009-06-19T06:48:00.000-07:00

It's that time again, when we spend an hour just laughing ourselves silly, with both standup and music alike. It's the 5th annual Appetizer Comedy show, and this time around we have a different form of audio entertainment than what we usually do. We'll feature standup from great new acts like Josh Sneed, rising star Jim Gaffigan, music from Harry and the Potters and more.

Our feature performer is none other than one of the legends who pioneered standup comedy in the mid 1960s, the father of clean comedy, Bill Cosby.

Join us for an entertaining lineup on the Appetizer, Saturday at 9PM on 89.7 KACU or online at www.kacu.org

A Well-Seasoned Songbook

2009-06-12T12:43:00.001-07:00

Last week, we did a look at popular artists' repertoire in an effort to showcase greatness as more richer than a few top 10 radio hits. We're continuing a similar theme this week with some excellent cuts from a few popular names, some underground legends, and maybe even a few artists you haven't heard before.

We'll do some brand new music from Green Day's 21st Century Breakdown that has some interesting resemblance to styles of the '60s and '80s. We'll also hear other pop-punk tunes from Jimmy Eat World and the now disbanded Further Seems Forever.

In terms of underground sensations, Austin-based Iron & Wine has been blowing up the folk/rock touring circuit the past few years. We'll take a taste of this great new sound, as well as up and comers The Bittersweets, Lloyd Cole, Fleet Foxes and more.

Join us for A Well-Seasoned Songbook, Saturday at 9PM on the Appetizer

Heard in Abilene, TX on 89.7 FM or online at www.kacu.org

Richer, More Satisfying Songbook

2009-06-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

In our next presentation of the Appetizer, we're going to do an introspective look at some very successful commercial music artists in an attempt to discover the value of the sum of their work. All too often, we hear the big name bands and hit artists, we see their pictures in the celebrity magazines and so forth, but we don't ever get to hear too much of their work aside from the 1 or 2 hit singles that get overplayed on commercial radio.

We want to remedy this. Although the Appetizer is a great source for up-and-coming independent musicians and undiscovered talent, we're also a resource for discovering music from people you do know, but might not have heard the best cuts of their music. Our presentation of "A Richer, More Satisfying Songbook" will feature a great selection of tracks from well-known acts like P.O.D., Flyleaf, Sara Bareilles, U2, and more.

And we'll also feature some great indie sensations like Kathleen Edwards, Tyler Burkum and Paolo Nutini.

Join us Saturday June 6th at 9P on 89.7 KACU FM or online at www.kacu.org

The Enchanted Evening Finale

2009-05-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

This series has been a real treat for us, in not only expanding our repertoire for the select artists we've aired, but also in getting the opportunity to speak with a handful of them and be able to hear from them insights into their music and their journey. This week, we present a very special finale, with 4 artists all dear to the Appetizer, and we'll have 2 feature artists to boot.

We'll begin with Carla Werner, who was featured on our very first Appetizer program in September of 2003. We'll present a brand new song from her as well as a track from her debut album Departure.

Suzy Bogguss is a legendary folk/country singer-songwriter who has won several awards over the last 20 years. We'll refresh everyone's memory with a few songs that put her on the map as well as a song from her recent release Sweet Danger. We'll also chat with Suzy about her early years in music and the evolution of her sound as heard on Sweet Danger.

We'll progress with another feature artist who is no stranger to our program-Lindsay Katt. Lindsay premiered on the Appetizer in 2008 and has since launched into a very successful career in the independent music world. Her debut album Picking Out Boxes has been on our menu many times. We'll hear her music and talk with her about how things have been going since she was first on the program.

And we'll conclude with a singer-songwriter who is becoming the female Bob Dylan in her storytelling and world-renowned presence. We'll hear a brand new song from her and more when the Enchanted Evening Banquet series concludes Saturday May 30th on 89.7 FM

The Appetizer is heard every Saturday at 9P on 89.7 KACU in Abilene or online at www.kacu.org

Enchanted Evening 3

2009-05-21T12:36:00.000-07:00

Coming up this week, our Enchanted Evening Banquet series continues with three up and coming artists that will guarantee to leave you wanting more.

We begin with an artist who is no stranger to the Appetizer. She's completed her third full length album called "Be OK" after a very successful "Girls and Boys". She's been featured on Grey's Anatomy and other hit TV shows. We'll hear music from both of these albums from Ingrid Michaelson.

Continuing on, we'll hear more music from Appetizer favorite Maria Taylor. Maria debuted in 2001 as part of a duo called Azure Ray with Orenda Fink. Azure Ray has produced several successful albums. Maria Taylor also has taken her talent and done many acclaimed solo albums. We'll hear from Lynn Teeter Flower and a song from her new Ladyluck album.

Our feature artist this week is a new talent who made her Appetizer debut in April as she came through Texas on tour with William Fitzsimmons. Rosi Golan is a world traveller and takes her stories and experiences from traveling through Europe as well as other journeys on her debut album "The Drifter and the Gypsy." We'll hear a wide selection of music from this album as well as speak with Rosi about her tour, her music and her future. Join us.

The Appetizer is heard every Saturday night at 9PM on 89.7 KACU FM or online at www.kacu.org

New Podcast Up

2009-05-19T08:09:00.001-07:00

The Appetizer's podcast, The Songwriter's Cookbook, just published a new episode featuring Tx based Vanessa Peters. Vanessa was the feature artist during the second portion of our Enchanted Evening Banquet. Hear excerpts from our interview with her as well as samples from her latest cd titled "Sweetheart Keep Your Chin Up," by going to www.songwriterscookbook.mypodcast.com

Enchanted Evening Banquet continues

2009-05-15T07:52:00.001-07:00

You are cordially invited to the continuation of the Appetizer's Enchanted Evening Banquet this Saturday at 9P on 89.7 KACU.

We'll begin with music from the young and talented Brie Stoner, who has put out several EPs and has been a part of Rob Bell's Nooma video series. She's also become a regular voice on the Appetizer over the past few years. We'll hear from three of her albums.

We move forward with a Korean-American talent who has recorded and toured with indie sensations Ingrid Michaelson and William Fitzsimmons. Her music has also been featured on several primetime TV shows. She's the talented Priscilla Ahn.

Also featured, pop sensation Leona Naess. Leona is a bit more publicized than our other artists. She's performed on Ellen, Craig Kilborn and other TV shows. Her music is so diverse and intriguing, she has also been featured quite a bit over the last 8 months. We'll hear from two of her albums.

Our feature artist this week is Vanessa Peters and Ice Cream on Mondays. Vanessa hails from McKinney, TX but also has links to Italy. We'll talk with Vanessa over the phone about her unusual band name, her music, tour and much more. We'll also hear select cuts from her 2008 album "Sweetheart Keep Your Chin Up."

These four great female artists are on the playbill for the next dinner plate of The Appetizer, from Abilene Public Radio, heard Saturdays at 9PM on 89.7 KACU in Abilene, TX or online at www.kacu.org

An Enchanted Evening Banquet Part 1

2009-05-07T09:02:00.000-07:00

On May 9th, we embark on a new series in the style and theme of the Lilith Fair of the mid 1990s, called "An Enchanted Evening Banquet" featuring an all female cast and conversations with Appetizer artists, who will be regarded as headliners for the show's evening. The series will last 4 weeks May 9-30. On the playbill for the first special evening, a woman who's taken her Americana/bluegrass stylings and reinterpreted them within the Mandarin Chinese culture. We'll hear a few examples of this from Abigail Washburn.

Also, a duo out of Vancouver Canada who have been making waves up there for years with their remarkable songwriting and style. They've been making music together since they were kids and are currently touring the world. They are indie sensation Opening Axe.

And we'll also hear some familiar and unfamiliar tracks from Rachael Yamagata from her Happenstance album and Loose ends.
Our feature artist will be Appetizer friend Bess Rogers. We'll hear some fan favorite tracks like "Notice" and "Only One" as well as new cuts from her Travel Back EP. We'll also share a portion of an interview D Grant Smith did with her a few weeks back.

It promises to be a night of exquisite music that you'll only find in one place: The Appetizer from Abilene Public Radio, Saturday night at 11P on 89.7 KACU in Abilene, TX or anywhere in the world online at www.kacu.org

Appetizer At New Time Starting May 9th

2009-04-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

It's been a fun ride staying up late on Saturday nights bringing you some great indie music. But 11P is a late hour to stay up for anything, even the best hour of music on the radio. It's understandable. It's late for our chef and host D Grant Smith too.

We've received many emails, calls, and letters from listeners who love the show but can't stay up that late. Thank you for your responses. To better serve you, the Appetizer will be heard at 9P on Saturday nights starting May 9th. Be sure to mark your calendars as we'll begin a great new series to start our time change.

Thank you for listening.

New Bess Rogers Podcast up and Midnight Snack

2009-04-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I added a new podcast from Bess Rogers, from a phone conversation we had a few weeks ago. We talk about her new Travel Back EP and more. You can check it out at http://songwriterscookbook.mypodcast.com/2009/04/Bess_Rogers-200842.html

This week's show will be called Midnight Snack and will feature a variety of music from Appetizer artists William Fitzsimmons and Micah P Hinson, Mainstay, P.O.D., Mana, Ingrid Michaelson, Snow Patrol, Deas Vail, Priscilla Ahn and much more.

Join us Saturday at 11P on 89.7 KACU or online at www.kacu.org

Meeting Rosi Golan and William Fitzsimmons

2009-04-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know, I pre-produce the Appetizer each week. Although it airs at 11P on Saturdays, I'm not at the station at that time. That's how most of radio is run. Your favorite programs are produced and finished long before you hear them. TV is the same, Hollywood is the same. It's just standard practice.

I say that to give context into how I was able to be in Ft Worth last Saturday evening and got to talk with Rosi Golan and William Fitzsimmons and you still heard the Appetizer at 11P with no problems. That's just how things work.

It's been about a year since I first spoke to indie sensation William Fitzsimmons on the phone in an interview we did last year. Part of that interview is podcasted on our webpage (Songwriters Cookbook link on www.appetizerradio.com). William was a really cool guy to talk with and I told him that if he ever ventured west towards Texas and came to DFW, I would head "down the road" and check him out. Checking his tour schedule a few months ago, I saw that he would no doubt be in Ft Worth to perform with a new indie up-and-comer, Rosi Golan. I got a hold of their respective managers and arranged an interview with both of them prior to the start of their gig.

I expected the venue to be on a main avenue and didn't know exactly how an in-person interview would work out with the traffic and people and so forth. I'm used to doing things over the phone where background noise isn't an issue and things can be edited and produced to make it sound excellent. Although my equipment was good, I didn't know if the sound would be great with the conditions of where we were.

The conditions included it being a very windy day, being outside of a bar with cheesy classic rock playing on an outside speaker, and a few guys talking a little too much due to a little too much drink. So when Rosi and William arrived, I didn't know where to go to alleviate some of the background noise issues.

Fortunately, I have friends with great ideas. I was accompanied by my wife Leilani and our friend Misty, who lives close by. She had driven us all over town and offered to let us use her car as a pseudo-studio for the interview. Rosi and William both agreed and one by one I interviewed them in the back seat of Misty's car, with Leilani and Misty in the front seats.

I won't go into detail on what we talked about in the interview. You can hear both interviews in their entirety on a new podcast called The Appetizer Drive Thru at this link http://appetizerdrivethru.mypodcast.com/

I will say that Rosi is a wonderful person to speak with and very accommodating. It was a pleasure talking to her. If you haven't heard her music, she's a real talent. Check out her stuff on myspace.com/rosigolan.

As for William, it was great to finally meet him. It's always cool to meet someone in person after you've spoken to them on the phone, but the face-to-face meet is the best. It was like a reunion with an old friend, although we don't know each other that well. Check out William's music at www.myspace.com/williamfitzsimmons. I'm still working on getting him to tour out in Abilene. Hopefully that will be a possibility and not a dream. I've got pics of us together coming. Stay tuned.

Read about D Grant and Suzy Bogguss

2009-03-11T07:18:00.001-07:00

Appetizer host D Grant Smith attended the recent concert in Abilene for folk/country legend Suzy Bogguss. Read about the show and D Grant's conversation with Suzy at his myspace blog.

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=42944652

More Great Press

2009-03-06T07:24:00.000-08:00

ACU's student news publication recently did an article on the Appetizer. Read it at http://media.www.acuoptimist.com/

More great music

2009-02-20T14:12:00.000-08:00

This week we'll dine on some great b-sides from 7 Mary 3, Suzy Bogguss, the 88, Mana, Black Gold, Fall Out Boy, Citizen Cope, the Killers and much more. Join us.

Coming up in a few weeks, a chance for you to pick up some free music from Appetizer artists Lindsay Katt, Runaway Dorothy, and Abigail Washburn. Stay tuned for more details.

The Appetizer is heard every Saturday night at 11 on 89.7 KACU or online at www.kacu.org

Become a fan of the Appetizer on facebook by going to http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Appetizer-from-Abilene-Public-Radio/46357943891

Thanks.

16 Ways To Say "I Love You"

2009-02-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is upon us again and while many people are scurrying about, trying to get that special gift for their beloved, we hear at the Appetizer want you do sit back and enjoy the last hour of Valentine's Night with a program called "16 Ways to Say I Love You." We'll do new and old love songs from voices you know and those you don't like Damien Rice, dashboard confessional, Jack Johnson, Joni Mitchell, Ingrid Michaelson, Copeland, Jim Sturgess, Brandi Carlile, Charles Johnston and much more.

Tune in Saturday night at 11P on 89.7 KACU FM in Abilene, TX or online at www.kacu.org

Extra! Extra! Read all About It! Appetizer makes big press

2009-01-29T13:18:00.001-08:00

We've been featured in a Dallas Morning News article. Please vote and comment on both sites:

Copy this link into your browser-

http://buzz.yahoo.com/article/1:dallas_morning:
6fb17598734487704ae36ef1016e2b56

You can click on the Dallas Morning News link from this site.

Thanks to everyone who's been supporting, listening and promoting the show!!! You've made a huge impact. We appreciate you.

NOW HEARD AT 11PM Saturdays

2009-01-16T08:50:00.000-08:00

Don't forget this weekend that the Appetizer's new time on KACU is 11PM on Saturdays after the Beale Street Caravan.

This week, we inaugurate our new time with new music from The Boxer Rebellion, Erin McCarley, Bruce Springsteen's Golden Globe winning song "The Wrestler," Runaway Dorothy, an interview with Awake! Awake!, Third Eye Blind, Rise Against and much more. Join us!

Appetizer Golden Fork Winners

2009-01-09T09:04:00.001-08:00

Thanks to everyone who voted. The following are the winners of the 2008 Appetizer Golden Fork Awards. Congrats to the winners! We'll announce these winners tomorrow night.

New Time starting Jan 17th

2009-01-09T08:59:00.001-08:00

As of Saturday january 17th, the Appetizer will be heard at 11PM on 89.7 KACU. The new time will allow us to better serve our listening audience, and hopefully attract some new listeners.

Upcoming Golden Fork Nominations

2008-11-03T12:18:00.000-08:00

Back by popular demand and the fact that D Grant calls the shots (the power of the chef), we are doing the Golden Fork awards for a second consecutive year. In the next few weeks, you will hear the nominations for each category and YOU the listener will decide who walks away with the Appetizer's prized Golden Forks.

Stay Tuned!!!!!

Finally A Flatfoot 56 Interview

2008-10-21T14:53:00.000-07:00

After months of waiting, it's finally here:

The Flatfoot 56 interview with Appetizer host D Grant Smith.

Sorry that it's taken so long, but overwhelming responsibilities and other tasks have kept our host and producer a little....well....overwhelmed. So check it out this Saturday Oct. 25th at 8PM, on 89.7 KACU FM or online at www.kacu.org

More great music

2008-10-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

In the coming months, the Appetizer continues to bring you a buffet of sound from artists like Abigail Washburn, Blues Traveler, Sandi Thom, William Fitzsimmons (stuff from his brand new album), Ben Harper, Mana, Muse, Flyleaf and much more.

Taste the Flavors of Music each Saturday night @ 8 on 89.7 KACU FM

www.appetizerradio.com

Micah P Hinson Interview

2008-09-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

We love our local talent in Abilene. This week, we'll talk to a local musician who has gone international, Micah P Hinson. We caught him in the middle of a European tour and fresh off releasing his new album "Micah P Hinson and the Red Empire Orchestra." Join us Saturday September 6th at 8PM on 89.7 FM for that interview and some great music from our special guest.

The Appetizer is Sponsored!!!!

2008-07-22T14:29:00.000-07:00

WOW, I never thought we'd get to this point, but I'm so happy and thankful that we have. When I started this thing 5 years ago, I dreamt of having an official sponsor for the show, and now that dream has come true. Anyhow, we are pleased to announce that the official sponsor of The Appetizer is Playfaire Park, the oldest continuously operated miniature golf course in Texas and one of the best venues for live music in West Texas. Be sure to visit Playfaire (voted best date spot in Abilene) for a great time at a low price and say thanks to Doc for supporting public radio, and listening to our program.

We'll be talking about the bands and musicians who will be playing there in the near future.

Hopefully You Do Too

2008-07-02T08:50:00.001-07:00

We hope your summer is going well. Pardon us for the incredible amount of time between news updates. So far we've done our 4th annual comedy night, featured some brand new music, and interviewed a few up and coming sensations in the world of indie music. That's not going to stop. In the next few months, we'll continue to bring you interviews and music from new artists like Flatfoot 56, the celtic punk group from Chicago and Micah P Hinson out of Abilene, who has become somewhat of a music sensation in Europe and abroad. We're also going to try and explore some new genres of music that our chef and host D Grant had never heard of before. It should be a learning experience for everyone.

Tune in Saturday nights at 8PM on 89.7 KACU in Abilene or surf over to www.kacu.org and hear it online.

And check out the Appetizer podcast Songwriter's Cookbook on our website www.appetizerradio.com

Alternative Acoustic Indie Infusion

2008-05-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

Well as you can see, there are many flavors of ice cream. Sometimes you can find little flavors or tastes of one kind of ice cream in a different kind. The same is true in music. That's what we're going to focus on in our next series, that we'll feature over the next several weeks. It's not just acoustic music, and at the same time it's not just alternative rock. We're blending them together, or rather showing how the artists themselves have blended their music with other forms, and illustrating how alternative and indie rock are constantly evolving. So join us for a look at the infusion of different forms of music, on the Appetizer.

Listen in May to 89.7 KACU FM in Abilene every Saturday night at 8, or online anywhere in the world on www.kacu.org

Happy Easter & Upcomming Shows

2008-03-20T09:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to all!!

This weekend, we'll do a special Easter program with inspirational songs of sacrifice, hope, unconditional love, salvation, and joy. Join us.

Also, a very talented group is coming to Abilene next Friday name Buxton. We'll be playing more of their music in future programs, but they'll be at Monks Coffee House on Friday March 28th with Sleepcar and One Wolf. Don't miss it.

DGS

Special Guest This Week-BESS ROGERS

2008-03-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

We are privileged to have NY based indie artist Bess Rogers on the show this weekend. We'll talk about her music, her career, where she's going and get perspectives on what it means to be an unsigned artist in today's musical world. Join us for great conversations, plus the music of Bess Rogers on the Appetizer, Saturday March 15th at 8PM (cst) on KACU or online at www.kacu.org

Appetizer Podcast Up

2008-02-14T08:42:00.000-08:00

Now you can check out "The Songwriter's Cookbook," a short portion of the Appetizer that gives insights and information on artist's music in their own words. Check the link below or surf over to http://songwriterscookbook.mypodcast.com/ to hear them all.

Hodge Podge

2008-02-08T12:11:00.001-08:00

That's all I can think of to describe the next few weeks. First off though, my apologies for not updating our news page since December of last year. I really dropped the ball. Forgive me!

Ok, so we're doing folk and indie music this month, as well as progressive and alternative rock, some older tracks from 80's legends, new tracks from music legends, and my favorite part......wait for it..........interviews with Appetizer artists Bess Rogers, Lindsay Katt, William Fitzsimmons and more. That's right, I've been blessed with the opportunity to speak with these talented people and talk music, life and more and I will share those conversations with you in the next month or so. Also, I'm in the process of podcasting these conversations so that you can listen to parts of the Appetizer anytime you want. I'll update you on that when it's all finished. Keep checking back, I'll do my best to keep this thing updated. Until then, be blessed!

-D Grant

And the Winner Is.....

2007-12-15T20:00:00.000-08:00

The Winners For the Appetizer Golden Fork Awards are:

For Best Song: The Killers-On Top (74% of votes)

For Best New Artist: Sandi Thom (76% of votes)

For Best New Album: Mana-Amar Es Combatir (69% of votes)

For Best International Artist: Missy Higgins (Australia) (69 % of votes)

Best Cover Song: Honeywagon-When I Come Around (70% of votes)

Best Local Band: Revolution (77% of votes)

Appetizer Awards

2007-12-12T10:16:00.001-08:00

Winner Announcements Coming Soon!!!

Different Kind of Christmas

2007-12-10T12:29:00.000-08:00

This year, we're doing things a bit differently. I never really know how to treat Christmas, since I get pretty sick of Christmas music on Thanksgiving Day when everyone starts playing. Working at a radio station for 10 years has made me dread this time of year because I get to listen to the same 30 songs all day long for 3 weeks straight. I'm sure people in retail or the grocery store business feel this pain.

With that in mind, you might understand the difficulty I have each year with doing something new and engaging this time of year. The past two years we've done a sort of musical play to narrate the story of Christmas, from a variety of artists and styles. This year, we're going to.......just have a little fun. I'm not exactly sure what that means, or what we'll do, but it will be both light-hearted and fun. I'm not as interested in being so serious about it as I have in the past, but at the same time, not wanting to treat it as a casual day, because it is Jesus' b-day. But fun music and Christmas stuff all wrapped up nicely under the tree is what you can expect.

Oh, we'll also mention our 2007 Golden Fork winners. Tune in Saturday December 22 for an Appetizer Christmas Party, on 89.7 KACU or online at kacu.org

GET TO THE VOTING NOW!!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-03T13:36:00.000-08:00

We're still taking ballots for the 2007 Appetizer Golden Fork Awards, but only for another week. If you haven't put your vote in, you're running out of time. Voting booths close this Friday at 7PM. Vote at www.appetizerradio.com

Get your vote on!!! (yeah that's cheesy enough to work)

The 1st Annual 2007 Appetizer Awards

2007-10-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

We play a lot of music every year, and we decided to award some of these great artists for their hard work and putting out delicious music. Six nominees in seven categories will compete for this year's Golden Fork awards, to be announced in December. In November, we'll hear the nominees and give you the listener the chance to vote in the winners. If you want to submit a vote, email D Grant for an official ballot (dgrantsmith@gmail.com). The following is the nominees:

Best Song
The Killers-On Top, Matthew Sweet & Susanna Hoffs-Run To Me, Dashboard Confessional-Stolen, Further Seems Forever- Light Up Ahead (acoustic), Mana-Arrancame El Corazon, The Hint-The Antidote

Best New Song (from 2007)
The Bleeding Alarm- Sorrows the Sea of My Heart, Flatfoot 56-Pay Me A Dollar, Ingrid Michaelson-Far Away, Sandi Thom-Superman, New Found Glory-Hold My Hand, Mat Kearney-Renaissance

Best New Artist
Sandi Thom, William Fitzsimmons, Circa Survive, Bess Rogers, Eric Hutchinson, Flatfoot 56

Best New Album (from 2006-2007)
Mana-Amar Es Combatir, Sandi Thom-Smile....It Confuses People, Circa Survive-On Letting Go, Ingrid Michaelson-Girls and Boys, Bess Rogers-Decisions Based On Information, Brandi Carlile-Brandi Carlile

Best International Artist
Missy Higgins (Australia), Mana (Mexico), Lisa Mitchell (Australia), Damien Rice (Ireland), Usra Leedham (France), Les Nubians (France)

Best Cover Song
Honeywagon-When I Come Around (originally by Green Day), Ben Lee-Float On (originally by Modest Mouse), Emery-All I Want (originally by Toad the Wet Sprocket), New Found Glory-Stay (originally by Lisa Loeb), Greg Laswell-Girls Just Want To Have Fun (originally by Cyndi Lauper), Emma Burgess-Your Love (originally by the Outfield)

Best Abilene Artist
Homer Hiccolm & The Rocketboys, Tony Barker, Jamison Priest, Lane Frizell, Revolution, O Scarlet

You can also write in your choice if it's not one of the nominees. Winners are based on ballot votes, so request yours now.

Best Album Cuts Part 2

2007-10-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

We're continuing to examine some great albums this week. Most of the artists featured this week have many great albums to their credit, not just the one we'll be sampling. For the most part, these are the most elite and successful of their genres, further showcasing their talent and prwoess in the music industry. Here's what we'll be partaking of on Saturday.

Mana

These hispanic lads have been given an incredible gift, one that only few musicians have: the ability to time after time create and produce incredible music. I have not heard a Mana album that did not amaze me. "Amar Es Combatir," their latest release and nominated for many awards, continues to prove that these guys are still able to do what they've been doing for decades, make great music. We'll hear three great tracks from this release.

Counting Crows

Another great example of musicians who continue to impress. After several hit records and singles, Hard Candy showed that Adam Duritz and company can still get down. This week, we'll hear not just the hits that took the credit, but we'll provide further examples from this great release as to what makes this a part of our great album cuts series.

Pearl Jam

What, two alternative rock bands? Yeah that's right. And it's Pearl Jam, so that fact alone qualifies it. Here's why. There is no other band in rock music as prolific as these guys. They've released eight original albums, a b-side release (that had around 20 or more tracks on it), a best of cd, and around 200 live releases from their 2001-2003 concerts from not just America but around the world. That's a lot of recorded music. And we can't get enough. Yield is probably my favorite of theirs, but only by a slim margin. We'll check out more of it this weekend.

U2

Talk about prolific. These guys have been making great music for 30 years now. That puts them up there with the likes of the Stones and the Beatles. Imagine. We will. "How To Dismantle..." is more than a rock album. It's an outcry for a generation of teenagers, 20 and 30 somethings and even middle-aged rockers who are tired of the mundane and tragic and want change. It's not an anarchy cry for change. It's a passionate calling to those who will listen and act. It's a love story for the world, and we're listening intently.

There's much more music on the way this week, including new comer Ingrid Michaelson and Bess Rogers.

Best Album Cuts This Week

2007-10-04T04:18:00.000-07:00

This week, we're taking a listen to slices of a bigger piece of meat, meaning tracks from whole albums that are worth checking out. As we've stated, too often a whole album only facilitates the hit single of the band who puts it out. The rest of the cd ends up being a waste. This puts people off from wanting to invest in buying a full project. However, there are still a lot of great complete albums out there that are worth checking out. Here's what we're hearing this week:

Johnny Cash
In the last few months of his life, Johnny Cash sat down one last time to record possibly his greatest album yet. A Hundred Highways completes his recording career with excellence, beauty, and poise. Great covers including Springsteen's "Further On Up The Road" along with originals that tell stories of love and lost strike heartstrings like few others have the ability to do.

Sandi Thom
Hailing from the UK, Sandi went from club singer to national prominence in 2005 with "I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker," which topped the charts in England, Ireland, Australia and Germany. Despite the title, the track has more of a upbeat folk feel, and the album carries much of that sense all the way through.

Brandi Carlile
When "The Story" made the i-Tunes free single of the week, Brandi was just breaking into the mainstream after her start in 2000 with "Room For Me." The success of the single has not only put Brandi Carlile, a Seattle native, on the map, but established her as a young rock celeb. Her 2007 release was produced by T Bone Burnett and includes a collaboration with the Indigo Girls on "Cannonball." Carlile was exposed to a wider audience when ABC's Grey's Anatomy showcased three of her songs: "Tragedy," "What Can I Say," and "Throw It All Away."

Carla Werner
The New Zealander was featured on the very first Appetizer program back in 2003. Departure is more than a rock album, or a folk rock album. It draws its strength from the passionate storytelling and ability of Carla to reach inside the listener's soul and capture something new. It's an album about searching, longing, wishing, dreaming, and finding. Every track accomplishes this goal, in some form or another.

The Killers
The album that not only put the band on the map, it created a chain-reaction in the music community in response to this hit. With commercial stations and MTV featuring four tracks on this album on regular rotation, that facet should speak enough to the credibility of the production. But there's more.......and we'll hear those tracks on Saturday night.

Join us, Saturday at 8PM on 89.7 FM KACU or online at www.kacu.org

The Whole Enchilada

2007-09-24T07:15:00.000-07:00

Starting in October, we're going to take a bigger bite of some great music. There's a lot of stuff out there that gets recorded and produced into a full length album only to facilitate a hit single. The single ends up being the only thing on the whole album worth writing home to Mama. This trend has burned a lot of folks out of going the distance to buy the whole album. However, there are still a lot of great albums that are being produced, and we want to take some time to recognize that. We're going to hear some cuts from great albums, pointing you to entire albums worth adding to your music library, aside from the hit single that made the commercial airwaves. Join us.

Newly Acquired Music

2007-08-31T12:48:00.000-07:00

For the next several weeks, I'm going to share with you some great new music I've picked up this year. Most of it hasn't been heard on the show before, so it will be good to mix it up with some completely new material. Here's some of what we'll be listening to this week.

A Fresh Start

2007-08-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

After 8 months of continuous series, we're just going to relax to some great music mixes for the next several weeks. So I can't really say just exactly what we're going to feature, except that we will have some brand new music. That's right, stuff not heard before on the Appetizer, as well as ome stuff that has been heard. Oh, and please let me know if you liked/disliked the punk stuff. I had a lot of fun putting that together, and would be willing to do more introspective stuff on other genres of music if the listener interest is there.

Ciao.

August of Punk

2007-07-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

This month, we're examing the many flavors of a genre of rock music that started in the '70s and has grown into its own prominence in the last 10 years. It's punk rock, one of the most misunderstood and negatively anti-biased music flavors out there. Yes there are some negative themes, lyrics, and so forth put forth in this genre, but I would say that's true of any music genre, be it country, rock, contemporay or otherwise.

We're going to do a variety of things in this series. We're going to tell a little history, but mostly we're going to examine the flavors of punk, the musical style, the lyrical themes, the elements that spawned the punk movement and the bands that brought it life and have sustained it over the years. Don't expect to hear the same old song and dance. Yes, you should recognize some of the artists we'll play, but not necessarily the songs. And you know you'll hear some stuff that hasn't been on the radio before (hey, that's just what we do here).

If you're a fan of punk rock, you should enjoy the ride. If not, but you have an open mind, you should find some new sounds to add to your collection. We're also going to look at what the punk rock movement spawned in terms of other sub-genres including ska, grunge, and (what we refer to as) alternative rock. Join us for Punk Rock August, on the Appetizer, Saturday at 8PM on KACU.

Acoustic Before Punk

2007-07-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

We covered more songs of love & beauty in July, and we're concluding the month with some engaging and powerful acoustic/unplugged tunes, all leading into August with a month long series focusing on the emergence, popularity and spread of punk rock, including alternative rock and ska. Join us.

500

2007-06-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

This year has been a year of breakthoughs and breakouts for a lot of people. Recently, I have compiled what will be trimmed down to a smaller list, but currently is my All-Time 500 Favorite Song list. I'll post it in its entirety soon. This process, for me, has been similar to being a judge for American Idol or Star Search (anyone remember that show?) in that is started with nearly 7000 choices and was narrowed down to 1000 and then down to 500. That's a hard process. Again, this will eventually become my 100 favorite song list, and then eventually turn into the top 50, top 25 and top 10 respectively. It's a long process, but I think we all want to know what our favorite things are and have a more concrete idea of what that looks like. At least I do. And also, things always change. It's good to look at my favorite songs now and compare that to what they were 10 years ago, as well as seeing which of those favorites are still in the list.

Summer Is Here

2007-05-23T08:13:00.000-07:00

There are some big things coming out (some have already premiered) this summer and we're apart of that. One of these, is the emergence of some big movies. So to start (officially) the summer off, we're going to the movies with music dedicated to the blockbusters of this summer and also a look into what's coming in the future, primarily of the hero or superhero genre. We're not only doing the symphonic-styled stuff, we've got some great classic rock tracks from the blockbusters of yore.

We'll follow that up with a must anticipated return to our Take Cover Series from last year, featuring new cover tracks that you've probably never heard before and some that you have. We'll try to tackle as many genres as possible and feature some known and unknown artists, all in the mix.

June will end with our infamous 4th Annual Comedy night, this year with material focusing on relationships and family life, from a variety of different comedic voices.

More info to come on what's going on through the rest of the summer, so stayed tuned to your computer and your radio, and join us every Saturday at 8PM for The Appetizer on 89.7 KACU.

More of the World

2007-04-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

With one week left on our Storyteller series, we're going to jump ship and go wherever the seas take us. Basically, we're going to be hearing a lot of different styles and genres of music from all around the world, including cuts from Mana's new release Amar Es Combatir, Oliver Mtukudzi, Laura Pausini, Les Nubian and more. So join us in May for World-Famous, a brand new series coming to the Appetizer, from Abilene Public Radio.

A look into the future

2007-04-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

Coming up on the Appetizer…..

During the month of April we will feature a 4 week series entitled “Storytellers,” highlighting the stories told in music. Not all of the songs on tap will be what you might expect in a series like this, but most songs tell some sort of story, and many are quite profound, if we’ll take the time to pay attention to what’s being communicated. We’ll look at the themes and stories told in music during the month of April.

Continuing on into May, we’ll travel the globe to hear the sounds of the world. World music is quite a large category of music, and we’ll try to squeeze as much of that eclecticism into 3 weeks. We’ll finish the month with a program dedicated to our soldiers of today and yesterday on a Memorial Day program.

As we head into the summer months, more great themed programs and anniversary shows are on the way, including a Movie Music show dedicated to many of the superhero themed flicks coming to theaters this year. We’ll also do an anniversary of last years “Take Cover” series featuring new cover tunes, and we’ll finish the month of June with our third annual Comedy Night 2007. This year, comedy involving relationships and children.

And we’ll continue the summer with more great music from local legends in the first week of July, music of beauty and love and an unplugged/acoustic show through the rest of the month. And we’ll close out the summer with 3 weeks of music dedicated to one particular type of rock music that has grown in popularity and style over the last several years.

Blues

2007-03-05T12:31:00.000-08:00

What are the Blues? Is it just a genre of music, or an overal theme that extends through all genres of music? We're exploring blues music, in terms of the themes of blues, and who experiences them. It's a great journey everyone can take something from, not to mention enjoy some really profound and powerful music. Tune in this month (March) to the Flavors of Blues, on the Appetizer from Abilene Public Radio.

Love Then Blues

2007-02-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

As you know, we're in the middle of a month-long series dedicated to the different feelings (tastes) of love, from romantic, friendship, family, and even Divine. We have a pattern of changing gears in an ironic sort of way, and that's exactly what will happen at month's end. We'll start March with another month long series called "The Flavors of Blues." This new series isn't as much about the genre of blues music as it is about the subject of blues music. We'll elaborate on this paradox when we start the series March 3rd, on the Appetizer from Abilene Public Radio.

2007

2007-01-05T10:49:00.000-08:00

This year marks the 4th year the Appetizer has been on the air, and we couldn't be more excited about it! Coming this year will be a shmorgusboard of new music from artists that haven't been featured on the program before. You'll still hear some favorites from the days of yore, but also new music as it is released. And we'll continue to do our best to feature local Abilene artists. Also, we have some special themed programs on the docket, including a series called "Storytellers," featuring folk, rock, old country, jazz, and other music that unravel interesting and thought-provoking stories. If you would like weekly updates on what's coming up, email D Grant at dgrantsmith@gmail.com, as updating this page doesn't happen as often as one would like.

Coming In November- TX Music

2006-10-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

In the month of November, the Appetizer will present a month long series called "Coming Home," featuring all Texas artists and bands, including many from the great city of Abilene. Some of these groups you will have heard before, but many will be the first time anyone has heard them in Abilene (and for some, the first airplay of their musical careers). Tune in to the Appetizer in November for the music of Eisley, Windsor Drive, PlayRadioPlay, The Elliot Project, Monk & Neagle, Branch, Flickerstick, Fastball, Spoon, Jets Under Fire, and much more. All coming in the month of November on the Appetizer.

The Appetizer airs every Saturday night at 8 on 89.7 KACU
online at www.kacu.org

For more info, check out www.dgrantsmith.com/appetizer

Take Cover -The Series

2006-10-05T09:13:00.000-07:00

Well it's upon us, the Cover series of a lifetime! We start October 7th with cover versions of hits by the Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, Elton John, U2, George & Ira Gershwin, Gnarls Barkley, Andrew Lloyd Webber, the Beach Boys and much more. We're not doing the normal stuff here, not the same old cover tunes you've heard over and over again. We promise there will be versions of your favorite hits that you've never heard before! Check it out. We continue on with more great new covers for the next several weeks of October on the Appetizer.

Take Cover!!!!

2006-09-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

The Ultimate Cover Show Series

Coming in October to The Appetizer

Upcoming Local Music Events

2006-09-07T07:43:00.001-07:00

We want to make known to you some of the great ways you can hear local music in Abilene, and fortunately there are two events coming in the next few weeks that feature a wide variety of some of the best musicians in Abilene. From September 19-23 you can hear an assortment of local legends including Tony Barker, Catclaw Creek, Joe Specht, Jamison Priest, Victoria Moore and others at the West Texas Book & Music Festival.
Click this link for more information on locations and times-
http://www.abilenetx.com/APL/book_music_fest.html

Also, the Bean Counter Jam Fest is taking place on September 23rd all day beginning at noon. On the bill are Salt Kreek, Tony Barker, Jamison Priest, Happy Fat, Homer Hiccolm & the Rocketboys and more. For More information go to http://www.thebeancountercoffee.com/

And on October 16th at 6PM , JamFest @ ACU campus w/ local Abilene bands. It's the fourth annual JamFest at Abilene Christian University.

You can watch a cool video on last year's ACU Jam Fest at http://pricklypear.acu.edu/videos/movie.php?id=38&format=qtlarge

Hope to see you there.

Longer Still

2006-08-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

We continue into the month of August with a series dedicated to the length of songs. I heard a long time ago that most songs accepted for radio play have a particular time restriction. Most radio stations don't like to play songs that are longer than 5 minutes, because it limits the number of songs that can be played in an hour, which then limits the number of commercials you can play in that hour. Therefore, unless a song is rocking the Billboard charts or some other factor, most songs that you hear on the radio are between 3 and 5 minutes in length. While there are exceptions to this rule it's an injustice to the community and to the artist to limit which songs will be played based on time. Is that radio profiling?

Well fortunately for us, we don't have the same restrictions that most radio stations do in terms of trying to fit commericals and all that into an hour's programming. So, this coming weekend, we'll hear some great music that you probably won't find anywhere else, because of the time barrier. And in the next few weeks, we'll look at more lengthy tunes and couple them with some shorter songs. It was the way things were 40 plus years ago in popular music. In the 50's and early 60's, you couldn't find a song that was 4 minutes long. A lot of artists are going back to that style with shorter tunes. So we'll present the Long and Short of it all in the month of August, on the Appetizer from Abilene Public Radio.

Listen Saturday nights at 8 on 89.7 FM or online at kacu.org

A World Of Sound

2006-07-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

Mana
Laura Pausini
Rosa Passos
Les Nubians
Si*Se
Young & Rollins

If you've heard any of these bands before, don't miss this weekend's show, "A World Of Sound," because we're bringing the best world music to the best hour in radio. And if you've never heard any of these groups, or even heard of them, then join us and be enlightened to the depth of music from across the globe.

The Appetizer is heard Saturday nights at 8PM on 89.7 KACU or online at kacu.org

Upon This Rock I'll Build My Summer

2006-07-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, there are allegories to scripture here, but the simple truth is, we've needed an rock-out night for a while. So that's what's going on this week on the Appetizer. Expect to hear some powerful rock tunes from the Killers, Yellowcard, the Darkness, Stars, Jimmy Eat World, Pearl Jam, The Fray, Counting Crows, and local rock bands Homer Hiccolm and the Rocketboys and O Scarlet. Don't miss it. And check out the calendar for upcomming info.

The Super Show

2006-06-29T10:48:00.000-07:00

Well, for me this is a dream come true, because Superman has been one of my favorite fictional characters for most of my life, as well as probably my number 1 childhood hero. So the fact that 20+ years have gone by since the Man of Steel was in a motion picture and his return (to both the cinema and the title of the movie) happened this week, I felt we needed to celebrate with an hour of music. Fortunately, the Appetizer is that hour. So this week, we're celebrating the new movie release, the character, and in a way the 4th of July with music about Superman, heroes, rescues, being saved and more. On the way music from the brand new album "Sound of Superman" with American Hi-Fi, Minnie Driver and Five for Fighting from Smallville Vol 2 Metropolis Mix, John Williams and the Boston Pops music from the first film series, Bush, Jack's Mannequin, and more.

Also, I've planned out the next 5 weeks of themed programs. We have a night of rock, world music, love songs, dreams and more in store for July and August. You can find more information about what we have lined up on our calendar page at http://www.dgrantsmith.com/appetizer/calendar.html

Have a great holiday.

Comedy Night Post-poned

2006-06-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Due to stuff out of our control, we are post-poning our 2nd Annual Comedy Night to next weekend June 24th. But we do have a fabulous program lined up this weekend. It's an acoustic night with unplugged music from Blindside, Yann Tierson, Damien Rice, Bell X1, Alanis Morrissette, Coldplay and more. Don't miss it.

Summertime, Summertime

2006-05-16T06:29:00.000-07:00

Well, all apologies for not updating the news section of this site as soon as we should. We just finished a look back at 90's rock music over the past few weeks. That was a lot of fun. We're enterring into the summer and as most of you know, we like to do some different things in the summer.

By different, we mean, well different. We'll have some special themed programs for the summer, some coinciding with some big blockbuster movie releases coming out in the next few months, and also an annual presentation of new material that will mirror in some ways a program that ran last year.
This is referring to the Summer 2005 Comedy Night. We're still putting the pieces together for this year's Comedy Night but lined up already we have classic comedy from Bill Cosby, classic parodies from Weird Al that haven't aired before on the program and more. Stay tuned!

What You'll Hear On The Appetizer

2006-04-07T10:57:00.000-07:00

It's too hard to try and post updates everyweek, so here's some of what you can expect to hear in future broadcasts of the Appetizer on KACU. If you have requests or comments, send email to dgrantsmith@gmail.com.

Travel Bag of Goodies

2006-03-24T10:05:00.000-08:00

This week I had the chance to sit down and talk to a guy who is hitch-hiking across Texas playing gigs. He's in Abilene for the weekend, but his method of travelling and performing is pretty unheard of. That intrigued me. So we had a conversation that we'll hear on this weekend's show. His name is Dean Strickland and he has a quite a story to tell of his journey's and music. Coupled with that talk will be some great music that at one point in time was considerred "Popular." I don't like that term because if the music is good, then why fade in and out of our recognition of it. So we'll hear some stuff this weekend from Third Eye Blind, Counting Crows, 10,000 Maniacs and more that at one point was well-known and popular, but not quite so anymore. Enjoy!

When It's Love

2006-02-10T09:53:00.000-08:00

This weekend, celebrate Valentine's Day with the Appetizer!!! We have an hour of yoru favorite love songs, and some new passionate tunes that you might not have heard before (or in a long time). Coming this week, John Mayer's City Love, go Head over Heels with Tears for Fears, sing along with Aerosmith to your Angel, get Hooked on a Feeling with Trombo Combo, watch your world Spin with Lifehouse, get Lost In Your Eyes with Debbie Gibson, and more. Also, great Latin love from Armik, love lost with U2, Berlin, Boston, Elvis Costello and more. Don't miss our Valentine's Day special this Saturday at 8 on 89.7 FM

Faves Rock

2006-02-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

This week on the Appetizer, we're playing some of D. Grant's favorite tunes, spanning several genres and eras of modern music including folk, rock, alternative and Latin music. It's an eclectic mix of fun stuff that should make you want to dance and laugh a bit too. Coming up, we travel back to the days of alternative rock's peak prominence of the mid-90s with tunes from Live, Oasis, and REM. Also we travel way back to the days when Michael Jackson was just an innocent kid playing music with his brothers and a tune called La La La La La (Means I Love You).

Anyone remember Carlton Banks dancing to Tom Jone's hit "It's Not Unusual?" That's where D. Grant first became familiar with this song. It didn't seem to get any funnier than Carlton dancing to this song, it almost makes you want to it try yourself.

Also we have a festive version of the theme from "Rocky" and a special song for fans of a lesser-known Stallone movie of the '80s, "Over the Top," with a song from Sammy Hagar.

We've got more modern music on the way as well including Straylight Run, Snow Patrol, Dido, New Zealand folk rocker Carla Werner, and a cool, smooth, soulish cover song from Swedish group Trombo Combo.

And our local artist this week is Homer Hiccolm and the Rocket Boys. It's an hour of fun and great music. Tune in this Saturday night at 8 to the Appetizer, on 89.7 KACU or online at www.kacu.org.

And don't miss next week's Valentine's Day Love Song show!!!!!

Fresh Start-Congratulations to bands Jamison Priest, Clad in Scarlet, and others releasing albums this new year

2006-01-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a great celebration. We're kicking off the new year with new music, covering a variety of different genres and artists. Also, we're celebrating new albums from some great local groups including Clad in Scarlet who have finished recording their debut album at Greenroom Studios and look to have it available in February. And this weekend is the CD release party for Jamison Priest, who celebrates their third album. The release party will be going on at Mezamiz (in the Cloisters at South 7th and Leggett) on Friday and Saturday from 9-11PM. The Appetizer will be there on Friday, and we look forward to seeing you all there too. And coming in a few weeks, a candid conversation with a very talented keyboardist named Gordon Cotton who is in Abilene now after being displaced by Hurricane Katrina. And we have tickets to give away to the second of the Planetarium Concerts that is coming up in February. Listen to the show for your opportunity to win! Coming up this week, Rob Thomas, Modest Mouse, and more. Tune in and have a great weekend!

Thank You Local Music Supporters

2005-12-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

Last night was Tony Barker's CD Release Party at Billiards Plus. It was great. Thank you all who came out to support local music and to see a 30-year dream come true for Tony. It was great meeting many new people and introducing them to KACU in a way they didn't know of before. There's a lot of people that don't know that Abilene artists are getting air-play on the radio. It was also great to hear some other local talent get on stage and play a few original tunes for us. I was introduced to Mike and Darin of Twice Removed. These guys are great! Not only to they have a good and engaging sound, but they have fun on stage while they perform. I look forward to hearing more of them in the future. Also, I heard Lofn, who sounds like a mix between Dido, Natalie Merchant and Green Day. She played a great small set and provided some CD tracks. We'll be hearing her on the show in the near future. I finally heard the great tunes and sounds of Duane Ramelot and all the great stuff I've heard about his music was confirmed. Jamison Priest played some new tunes from their upcoming album. Vincent Allen Dawson had a great set too. It was great to hear all of the artists who performed, there's too many to recount now. It was also great to meet Melanie Bowe, Rick Lane, Cameron Latham, Jeff Bullock, and Diane and Wyatt Robinson. Wyatt and Diane are two huge local music supporters and great cooks! Thank all of you who came out. And continue to support local music in Abilene. Spread the word about the Appetizer's support of local music. We've got more opportunities to win free tickets to the Planetarium concert series and more in-studio interviews coming up this new year. Stay Tuned!

Don't Miss Tony's Party

2005-12-17T09:16:00.000-08:00

This Sunday! From 2 PM until 10 PM at the Back Room of Billiards Plus on South Seventh between Dyess Air Force Base and The Winter's Freeway

In addition to live music by Tony and other great local acts, SUPER door prizes donated by Aardvark Brothers Music - Turnerhill Barbeque - Abilene Zoo - Schlotzsky's - Friendze Stores - Hot Spot Tanning - PlayFaire Park - Pam's Pets - RAM Business Products and more, plus CD's from local artists, and

THE BIG NEWS:
We're giving away a CAR!!

That's right - Abilene Auto Mall has graciously donated a 1994 Eagle Talon that you can sign up to win at the party. We'll hold the drawing around ten. You don't have to be there to win, but you have to sign up in person.

And The Appetizer will be there in FULL FORCE, with giveaways and more. Come out and support the local music scene in Abilene.

Santa's Little Helper

2005-12-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

This month on the Appetizer, we are going to help you out in your Christmas present shopping. We won't try to be Santa, but we all know who Santa really is, and so we're going to help you out in some Christmas present ideas for those you care the most about on your list. There has been a shmorgusboard (if that's how you spell it) of great music that we've heard this year and much of it can be found on albums that are full of more great music. The gist of it is, let us show you or remind you of some great stocking stuffers for your Christmas list. If anyone would like to make any special requests for Christmas, we will be happy to accommodate you. Have a great December and a very merry Christmas!

Where Have the News Been?

2005-11-28T08:45:00.000-08:00

For those of you who check this site often, we at the Appetizer apologize for not updating you in over a month with the latest news. It's been busy as we head into the Christmas season and everything that's involved in that. Nonetheless, we are sorry for not hooking you up with the latest news. So what did we not tell you..................hmm.........., nothing really. We spent November being thankful for music (last week's program) and also featured some great rock, blues, jazz, world, and local music (what else is new?) over the course of the month. We have something special to help you out in the Christmas season for the month of December, but we'll tell you more about that in a few days. We hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and enjoyed the holiday with family and loved ones. Have a great week.

Influence Around the World

2005-10-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

This week, we're taking a trip across the globe and listening to contemporary music from Europe, Africa, Latin America, the US and Canada. In doing so, we're seeing how music influences itself, and artists build off each other. Sometimes, a musician will hear something from another artist with a different style and do things to mimic that and build from there. And sometimes the same thing happens with artists and styles from different parts of the world. Illustrating the theme this week are Keane, Five For Fighting, the Dave Matthews Band, Oliver Mtukudzi, Angelique Kidjo, Laura Pausini, Blindside, the Killers, Radiohead, Alanis Morisette, and Hammock. It's a lot of fun to listen to, I hope you take the time to tune in this week. Also, don't forget to come by and check out the Erinshire Folk Festival this Saturday from noon to midnight on the corner of Cedar Crest and North 13th/16th close to ACU. If you have any questions, email me at dgrantsmith@gmail.com. Thanks. I look forward to seeing you there!

Erinshire Preview

2005-10-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

If you don't know about what's going on in Abilene next weekend, then you will in a few minutes. At the corner of North 13th/16th and College Dr (down the road from ACU) lies an all day music festival on Saturday Oct. 22nd, beginning at noon. It's the Erinshire Folk Festival and many great local groups will be performing all day. The only fee is $10 and it's good all day for you to come and go as you please. Among the groups that will be performing are Jamison Priest, Vincent Dawson, Greg Young, Victoria Moore, the Steve Miller Band (all of whom have been heard on the Appetizer) and more. This week, we're getting ready for Erinshire with music from Victoria, Vincent, and Greg. Also a solo piece from the lead singer of Lifehouse, Jason Wade, Jack Johnson, rock music from Matchbox 20, Rufus Wainwright, and another Abilene band, Homer Hiccolm and the Rocketboys. It's a great night of great of excellent music. We'll also hear from Erinshire host Bobby Deagan and local guitarist/songwriter Tony Barker. Don't miss it.

Clad in Studio

2005-10-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we were blessed with an in-studio interview with local up-and-coming rock group, Clad in Scarlet. Dave Ruiz and Carlos Macias of the group graced us with their presence and gave us a closer look at their roots, influences, humor and performance of 2 songs. We need to apologize for not mentioning this ahead of time but if you missed the show and want to hear it, email D Grant at dgrantsmith@gmail.com. He'll hook you up. It was a great show and a great conversation with 2 great guys and very talented musicians. They will also be featured this Friday night among other local college bands at Jam Fest at the Campus of ACU. The music starts at 7PM. Check out www.acu.edu for more information. And check out www.myspace.com/cladinscarlet for more information on the band.

What Up?

2005-09-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

We start October with a bang! Great Blues music this week from Keb Mo' and Eric Clapton. Also new alternative rock from Dido, Straylight Run, John Mayer and more. And this week's local feature is music from veterans to the Abilene music scene. They've been around since the '90s making music and recordings. It's the Doug Roysden Band and they are going to be the featured artist at a free conference on October 12th at Shotwell Stadium. The event is an Fellowship of Christian Atheletes Special Event. Don't miss it. And tune in this week to a great night of rock and blues.

Local Band In-Studio Interview and Performance on The Appetizer

2005-09-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

Well, if you've been listening to the Appetizer these past few weeks, you've heard what we're doing to raise support for the local music scene. Local artists that have already been featured on the show include the Steve Miller band, Vincent Allen Dawson, Homer Hiccolm and the Rocket Boys. Starting this weekend, we're going a step further and letting you meet the band. This weekend, local folk sensation Jamison Priest will be featured in an in-studio interview including live performances of 2 of their original songs. You won't find local radio coverage or support anywhere else in Abilene. Don't miss this weekend's show! It is guaranteed to be great. We're also featuring great folk music this week from Putumayo's latest release "American Folk," music from "Acoustic Rainbow Vol. 13" and a jazz tune from Lizz Wright. And stay tuned for more in-studio guests from local artists around the city.