Brianne O’Neill joined me in sharing our feelings on the most important aspects of ROCK N ROLL in Nashville this past year. Thanks to Stephen Trageser for asking me to contribute for a second year in a row to Nashville Scene’s 2018 Rock ‘n’ Roll Poll which you can read in its entirety here! I’ve also included our complete list below as a bonus. Hope you enjoy and maybe even discover a new favorite band. —KLA
What local artist/band ruled Nashville in 2018?
Howling Giant destroyed all of America.
What local artist/band is going to rule in 2019?
Our sources say to keep an eye on The Ascent of Everest...
What was your favorite discovery this year?
Kari: Thank You Please
Brianne: The Medium
Best/worst band breakup of the year?
RIP Diarrhea Planet (who played in Kari’s living room once) but kudos to the rest of Nashville’s bands for sticking together for the most part.
Best music story of the year?
Sturgill Simpson interviewing Damien Echols at the Unitarian Church
What trend would you like to see left behind in 2019?
Social media algorithms ruining visibility for event promotion.
Who deserves more coverage than they got in 2018?
Elon Musk
What was your favorite local record of 2018?
Lasso Spells - Bohemian Mechanics
What was your favorite local song of 2018?
Dinosaur Hair - Andy Ferro
Best show of the year?
BOBFEST, for sure