Americana
Everything published on Viyolens under Americana — reviews, buying advice and how-tos written for players and producers in the UK.
A Beginner's Guide to Country Music
From the Grand Ole Opry to Kacey Musgraves, from Appalachian folk to the O2 Arena — what country music is, how it sounds and where to start listening.
Country Music Subgenres, Explained
From the honky-tonk bars of Texas to the folk festivals of Appalachia — the different strands within the genre explained, with key artists for each.
Folk Music Subgenres, Explained
A solo singer with a guitar and a full electric band playing centuries-old ballads are both folk music. Here's how the genre's branches actually differ.
The Best Outlaw Country Artists to Know
The outlaw country movement produced a concentrated group of essential artists. Here are the key names, what each contributed and why they still matter.
Essential Outlaw Country Albums Explained
The essential outlaw country albums were mostly recorded in a five-year window. Here are the key records, what made each one important and what they sound like.
Folk Rock Subgenres, Explained
It was never one fixed sound — here's how to tell folk rock's closest relatives apart.
A Beginner's Guide to Americana
Americana blends country, folk, blues, bluegrass and rock into something else entirely. Here's a friendly, no-jargon way in for first-time listeners.
Outlaw Country for Newcomers: Where to Start
Getting into outlaw country is straightforward. The genre is compact, the key records are short and the entry points are clearly signposted. Here is how to begin.
The History of Outlaw Country
Outlaw country grew from artists' dissatisfaction with Nashville's controlled studio system in the late 1960s and peaked with a platinum-selling compilation in 1976.
Outlaw Country Subgenres, Explained
Outlaw country is not a single sound. Several distinct strands grew from or alongside it, each with its own regional identity and artistic priorities.
A Beginner's Guide to Outlaw Country
Outlaw country emerged in the early 1970s as a rejection of Nashville's polished sound. Here is everything a beginner needs to know.
The Best Outlaw Country Songs Right Now
The essential outlaw country tracks are not greatest hits in the commercial sense. They are moments where the music's values of independence, honesty and craft converge.
The Complete Guide to Southern Ukuleles
Southern ukuleles represent a distinctive fusion of Hawaiian tradition and American folk music. These instruments have earned their place in Appalachian and country music, offering a warm tone and acc...
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Americana
Americana blends folk, country, blues and roots rock into storytelling-led music with an acoustic, lived-in feel.
Country Music
Country music combines storytelling lyrics, melodic hooks and acoustic-led band arrangements.
1 topic
Folk Music
Find folk music gear for acoustic tone, lyrical performance and natural-sounding recording.
1 topic
Folk Rock
Versatile gear for folk rock, balancing acoustic texture, electric drive and strong songwriting focus.
Outlaw Country
Outlaw country blends traditional country roots with a tougher, independent and rebellious attitude.
Southern Ukuleles
Southern ukuleles offer portable, easy-to-play instruments for strumming, learning and travel.
