5 Albums I Can’t Live Without by Kevn Kinney
Kevn Kinney: Trading Blueprints for Backroads in the Pursuit of Perfect Sound
Kevn Kinney is a collector of vintage board games and a singer-songwriter, known for his role as an impresario of Drivin N Cryin. But beneath the surface of his current life in Scottdale, GA, Kinney harbors a deep yearning for a different kind of timeline—a moment thirty years ago in Amsterdam, dreaming of riding bikes, sipping coffee, and traversing the world.
Today, his life is a blend of quiet contentment, walking his dogs, and enjoying a barbecue, yet his inner world remains constantly tuned to the echoes of rock and jazz history. Kinney’s passion extends far beyond the present moment; it’s a quest for the sounds that shaped his journey from Milwaukee to Atlanta and beyond.
When it comes to music, Kinney doesn’t just listen; he lives the soundtrack. His collection is a rich tapestry of rock, jazz, and a touch of novelty, reflecting a life lived with enthusiasm and curiosity. For him, music isn’t just entertainment; it’s a memory, a mentor, and a roadmap.
Some of the defining moments in his musical journey are captured in the albums he considers essential. For instance, Reckoning by R.E.M. served as a profound marker for Kinney, capturing the transition of moving from Milwaukee to Atlanta and helping him find his place in the new city. He sees R.E.M. as the greatest Southern rock band, noting how their influence created the “Kudzu Circuit”—tour routes that still connect musicians today.
Another touchstone is the raw energy of The Ramones’ Rocket to Russia. Seeing the band in 1977 fundamentally changed him, instilling a feeling that resonated with the chaotic, yet authentic, spirit of folk music. Kinney recognizes the Ramones as the perfect embodiment of a folk sound, blending the heat of reggae with the thunder of the New York skyline.
His appreciation for sonic depth continues with Bridge of Sighs by Robin Trower, a record that evokes a sense of hypnotic transcendence. For Kinney, this music is a portal, offering a memorable, almost out-of-body experience that reminds him of the pure, unfiltered power of sound.
Kinney also holds a deep admiration for artists who fostered his growth, such as Brian Ritchie, who guided his path into the avant-garde. This connection was cemented when Ritchie helped Kinney find his voice in Atlanta, giving him a stage that introduced him to the world of rock and bass.
The list of his must-hear albums is a testament to how music structures experience. From the edgy energy of Violent Femmes, which introduced him to world music and the experimental side of art, to the timeless appeal of Peter Case, Kinney cherishes records that speak to his desire to be a folk aficionado and a performer.
Ultimately, Kevn Kinney’s relationship with music is one of continuous discovery. Whether seeking out the sonic grit of punk, the melodic complexity of jazz, or the expansive narratives of arena rock, his journey is a reminder that the best adventures are often found on the backroads of sound.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
