James J. Patterson to Write Liner Notes for New Country Rock Record
The North Star Band, formerly managed by ASP's own James J. Patterson, release a new LP, Then and Now
James J. Patterson, famed himself in the music world for his onstage-persona, Jimmy Pheromone, writes the liner notes for the new North Star Band album Then and Now. The North Star Band was formed in the 1970s by Patterson's erstwhile co-writer and co-performer Al Johnson (Al Pheromone). After recording two albums under the Patterson's management, the band went on a long hiatus from which they only recently returned. However, during this period, a third album was recorded but not released.
That recording sessions forms the bedrock of the reunited band's new double LP, Then and Now, which collects the previously unreleased album as well as 10 new songs in a genre the band calls "kick-ass country."
Fortunately, James J. Patterson remains connected with the project. But, instead of managing the band and booking shows, he plies a new talent to helping the boys soar: writing. Since his Jimmy Pheromone days, Patterson has released two books through ASP, a collection of essays (Bermuda Shorts) and a novel (Roughnecks). His newest project, Junk Shop Window, a collection of personal essays, is slated for release in 2023.
An article in the Washington Post details the history and regrouping of the band, and this article features an interview with band members while drawing heavily from Patterson's liner notes. You can find tour info on the band's website here.
WRITTEN IN ARLINGTON, Katherine E. Young Edits Exciting New Anthology of Poetry
The former Poet Laureate of Arlington, VA, Katherine E. Young, curates this collection of contemporary poetry which shines a light on singular art from outside the big city.
Selected Lucille Clifton and Henry Taylor Reviewed by Rose Solari
In her latest review column, Rose Solari tackles the selected poetry of two stalwarts of American letters, Lucille Clifton and Henry Taylor. Solari looks at the continuing legacy of the late Clifton and a Taylor who has chosen the Winnebago over the academy.
“Necromancy Never Pays” Features Rose Solari Poem
The unique literary blog from writer Jeanne Griggs features Solari’s “Somewhere Between Four and Five A.M.”