Summary

This week’s episode from 2015 of Country Fried Rock takes a deep dive into the world of collaboration, with the talented Jim White joining us to talk about his recent partnership with the Packway Handle Band. We get into the highs and lows of working together creatively, especially when it comes to music production. Jim shares what it's like to take on the role of a “record foreman” instead of a traditional producer, giving us a fresh perspective on the creative process.

Throughout the conversation, we talk about how different musical influences blend together, particularly the mix of Bluegrass with other genres, and Jim opens up about how his sound has evolved over time. Plus, we get into the challenges and wins he’s experienced in the studio, all while emphasizing how important spontaneity and connection are to making great music.

It’s an insightful look at the art of collaboration and the exciting world of modern Southern music. Tune in and join the conversation!

Show Notes

• In the latest episode of Country Fried Rock, the hosts try out some new mobile recording tech to capture their musical conversations on the go.
• While the idea is exciting, the sound quality didn’t quite turn out as expected, and it’s a bit rough around the edges.
• Despite that, the episode is packed with engaging discussions, featuring the talented Jim White.
• Jim shares some great insights into his recent collaboration with the Packway Handle Band, giving listeners a peek into the creative process behind their work.
• This episode runs a bit longer than usual, offering plenty of time to dive deep into the artistic chemistry that comes from blending different musical backgrounds.

Here's What We Wrote Back in 2015

Jim White’s songwriting and visual art are some of the tangible fruits of his sometimes dark thoughts, but he is not the tortured Southern Gothic poet of his past. When Packway Handle Band (previously featured on Country Fried Rock), sought White’s assistance in producing their new record, they ended up collaborating in a back and forth manner, with White sharing a trove of bluegrass songs he had written with the Packway Handle guys, and Packway Handle sharing their new songs with White — hence, Jim White Vs. Packway Handle Band on this new Yep Roc release. Do not pigeonhole what you think you know about Jim White, nor of the Packway Handle Band; they all are pushing their boundaries to move into new territory musically. White does not tour the US much, but catch a show, if you can, most likely in Europe, where he is a cult figure.

Buy Take It Like A Man here.

Takeaways

• In this episode, we took a shot at mobile recording and explored some new tech along the way.
• Even with the challenges of recording on the road, we managed to have some great conversations over the course of four weeks.
• Jim White joined us to talk about his collaboration with the Packway Handle Band and the creative journey they’ve been on together.
• Their process was all about trading songs and ideas back and forth, building something truly collaborative.
• Jim shared how much he enjoys producing music—not just for himself, but in helping others bring their artistic visions to life.
• We wrapped up the episode reflecting on how connection, creativity, and a little spontaneity are at the heart of making music.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Country Fried Rock Road Trips
• 02:53 - The Musical Collaboration Begins
• 07:45 - Exploring Genre Boundaries in Music
• 11:12 - A Journey to Denmark: The Arts Festival Invitation
• 21:51 - The Journey to Connection
• 22:43 - Letting Go and...