Kevin Higgins

At the risk of embarrassing two dear friends, this week's newsletter is about the "Cosmic Dust Devil Holy Spiral of Eternal Love." Let's talk some turkey about soulmates.

What human heart hasn't been broken? Just when we think we've found "the one," today's soulmate becomes tomorrow's stalker. Will we ever connect? With someone we can trust? What about all those painful mistakes we've made?

And once the passion's been found, how do two mere mortals keep it nourished for a lifetime?

After my own nuclear winter by way of love, I needed a new paradigm. Not that I knew what it was, but with my knack for manifesting complex designs out of nothing, I was inspired to inquire.

"How will it look?" my friend asked as we dined at an Irish pub on San Antonio's Riverwalk. "How will it feel to fall in love later in our lives?" You got me.

I know what it won't be. It won't be the "burn-em-up-burn-em-out" supernovas of our teens and 20s. (But please, don't let's lose all the combustion.)

It won't be like our 30s or 40s, when hard knocks of youthful heartache inspired practicality. We still optimistically thought we'd live forever and never get old. Maybe now that we're sufficiently humbled, "later in life," we can bring that resilient optimism into the finite. Time to get serious before the big deadline.

Today's lovers also tackle this era of enlightened psyches: you are my mirror; I am that I am; DWF seeks SWM to be "soulmate."

In this new energy of super-conscious thinking, self-love, and sovereignty, what does being "in love" even mean? This is where "The Cosmic Dust Devil Holy Spiral of Eternal Love" comes in.

The inspiring Cosmic Dust Devils are specifically Barbara Malteze and Kevin Higgins, award-winning singer-songwriters out of Austin, Texas. A mutual friend needed help booking their northern summer tour, so we got them a one-nighter on our island. I knew they were hailed as gods in Texas, and any friends of my friends are friends of mine.

For me it was love at first sight. Those Dust Devils had an extraordinary presence as a couple. Sitting on a bar stool between them, Barbara on my right, Kevin to my left, I was swept up into their powerful vortex. Even not facing each other, and talking to other people, I could feel the attraction their bodies had for one another with my eyes closed.

The second thing that struck me was how much they admired each other. They fell over themselves singing each other's praises, literally. As one would garble a string of adoration about the other, sparks would shoot off the corners of the other's eyes like little Northern Lights.

But not everything was storybook in the Dust Devil Spiral.

Kevin admitted that after weeks on the road, then home together in the house, elbow to tea kettle, sometimes things got thick and gooey. Breathing space had to be taken, corners gone to, cooling down, then back to the table to start again with an open heart and mind. Each time they went through a collapse of patience or sweated the small stuff, one or the other would take the reins and steer the whole thing back on track.

Watching them sing together was like ease dropping on heaven. Their undeniable musical chemistry served as inspiration for each other's insatiable muse.

Kevin improvised a song about asking Barbara's father for her hand in marriage while she hid her face in her hands. You would have thought they were 14 years old. In truth, they've been married for ten and together for lifetimes I have no doubt.

After they left the island, I basked in their lingering mood, looking for them at the coffee shop even when I knew they were gone. I wanted to be in the presence of that Cosmic Dust Devil Holy Spiral of Eternal Love.

I want what they have.

Breaking down the elements of the Spiral reveals a map based on a 3-point geometric design:

Chemistry. This begins in the body, beyond any decision-making of Intellect. Either you have it or you don't. Chemistry does not guarantee success, but a successful love relationship needs this glue to carry through the tough stuff. Chemistry reminds you, when you're thinking of fleeing the tough stuff, that no matter where you run, they'll be there with you, in your chemistry. Or, as I like to say, "I'm so miserable without you, it's almost like you're here."

Adoration and Respect. Without this, chemistry becomes obsession. Admiration is the building block to creating a firm foundation of respect for each other and self. Being proud of your Eternal Love in public inspires mutual devotion that leads to the tranquility of trust.

Present Moment Long Haul. Formerly known as commitment, Present Moment Long Haul recognizes that in order for a partnership to last a lifetime, both parties must keep showing up in present moment. It was Kevin and Barbara's commitment to come back to the table with an open mind and heart, ready to take responsibility each for their part, ready to begin again, making dec - Newsletter, Feb 1, 2010, (Barbara With)

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"...beautiful...an emotional debut...Higgins has waited a long time to fulfill his dream, now we just have to hope he doesn't wake up too soon..."

(Maverick UK)

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"...a very fine record indeed...(Higgins) demonstrates a poet's eye for the events in life that have real significance...warmth, honesty, empathy, and a sense of drama in these songs that all adds up to a distinctive voice."

(NoDepression.com)


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"Texas does it again...all the best singer songwriters come from Texas – everyone knows that. Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Steve Earle, Lyle Lovett, Butch Hancock, Joe Ely, Nanci Griffith, Willie Nelson. The names go on, and now there’s one more to add to the list...Kevin Higgins."

(Americana-uk.com)


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"Simply put, this is one of the most astounding introductions to a “new” singer-songwriter since Sam Baker’s "Mercy". (Higgins has) a sly lyrical and melodic wit akin to John Prine or Guy Clark at their most winsome."

(Richard Skanse,Texas Music Magazine)

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“This is singer-songwriter stuff at a level that changes the whole damn playing field...as shimmeringly beautiful a record as you’ll hear this year...a stunning accomplishment, top to bottom.” (Dave Pilot, OutlawMagazine.com)

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“Find Your Shine is my pick for record of the year.
A masterpiece...I have listened to Find Your Shine fifty times and never not had chills at some point. Kevin Higgins is among the greatest songwriters alive today.”

(Walt Wilkins, acclaimed songwriter)

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“I haven't loved a record at first listen since I don't know when....the best songs John Prine /Bruce Springsteen never wrote...it's only January, but I swear this will be the 2010 album of the year. I'm excited !!”

(Eddie White, Cosmic Cowboy Cafe, Sydney, Australia)

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"Higgins paints portraits of ordinary Americans, and tells their stories with beauty.  He has been compared to Steve Earle, Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt, and this album proves he deserves the praise.  I haven't taken this cd out of my listening rotation since I picked it up.  If you are a fan of great lyrics and beautiful melodies, pick this cd up today." (Austin Examiner)

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"I could talk about how much I love Kevin's songwriting for pages and pages!! (Find Your Shine) sounds great!"

(Susan Gibson, CMA award-winning songwriter "Wide Open Spaces" recorded by The Dixie Chicks)

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"Such great songs...just love it.” (Lee Williams, CEO, CMR Nashville, UK)

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“I love it! I listened to it twice today from start to finish. It's an excellent album.”

(Tom Fahey, AmericanaOK.com, Scotland)


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“I gave it a good listen and it's great!” (Roel Stabler, Country File, The Netherlands)


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“Kevin Higgins' album is great!” (Jacques Spiry, Country Unlimited, France)

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"(a) masterpiece...Higgins is a master of words...there is no Texas vocalist with a warmer, more comforting voice." (MyTexasMusic.com)

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"...full of heart and soul...masterful writing and committed vocals..."

(The Alternate Root)

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"(Higgins is) a storyteller, and a very fine one...powerful stuff."

(Oliver di Place blogspot)

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"When you think of Texas songwriters, a few names quickly come to mind: Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Willie Nelson … Just for the record I will throw in one more name, (Kevin Higgins). (Find Your Shine cd) runs like a symphony — maybe like Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition” –or perhaps like Aaron Copland’s ballet, Rodeo...a song cycle that paints a consistent portrait of rural America and real people searching for a little joy. This is powerful stuff — Doug Burr powerful, but even more Texas traditional.  Gentler than, say, Steve Earle, more serious, say, than Robert Earl Keen, and much more hopeful than, say, James McMurtry. " (Duggan Flanakin, Flanfire blog spot) - various (2010-11)

(Austin, Texas) ~ Kevin Higgins, an award-winning songwriter who currently resides in Austin, received the news yesterday that he had won "Song of the Year" at the 10th Annual Texas Music Awards for his song, "Monahans." This is the third time Higgins has won "Song of the Year."

The awards show was held Saturday, March 24th, inside the World Headquarters of the Academy of Texas Music in Linden, TX. Sanctioned by the Academy of Texas Music, the TMAs “recognize Texas talent and reward Texas pride.” The awards serve to recognize those performers, most of whom are independent artists not signed to major record labels, for their contributions to Texas music.

Kevin Higgins spent the first half of his life in El Paso, purchasing his first guitar with money earned from running carnival rides and grooming horses. When asked about the inspiration behind the award-winning song, Higgins cited, "It has been quite a journey for this song about a lovesick misfit who gets blindsided by the cold, hard reality of socio-economics. To stray from what is in the heart and gravitate towards financial security has long been a dilemma for both women and men alike. I am truly honored 'Monahans' has received this acclaim."

No stranger to the Texas Music Awards, Higgins has already collected six TMAs (2005-2010). He has appeared onstage at the 2001 Kerrville Folk Festival, had his song “Company Time” placed in the politically provocative film A Day Without A Mexican and EMI Records soundtrack, and has been hailed as “quite possibly the next great Texas songwriter" (RockzillaWorld.net). Americana-uk.com posted, "All the best singer songwriters come from Texas...Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Steve Earle, Lyle Lovett, Butch Hancock, Joe Ely, Nanci Griffith, Willie Nelson. The names go on, and now there’s one more to add to the list...Kevin Higgins."

This past summer, Higgins has had five of his songs recorded on new releases by Tina Mitchell Wilkins, Justin Haigh and The Texas Ladybugs.

When he's not busy writing, Higgins can be found brandishing a Telecaster and performing regularly around the state of Texas with his band, Cosmic Dust Devils. He also tours extensively several times a year with his wife and musical partner, Barbara Malteze, appearing as a duo at house concerts and listening rooms throughout the U.S. and Canada.
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For interview/appearance requests, contact:
Little Train Records, 9301 Spectrum Dr., #1235, Austin, TX 78717
512.525.1493 littletrainrecords@gmail.com

More information can be found on Kevin Higgins' website: www.KevinHigginsMusic.com

To view a complete list of award recipients and nominees, (including photos and audio) visit: www.TexasMusicAwards.org




- Press release, March 27, 2012

(Austin, Texas) ~ Kevin Higgins, an award-winning songwriter who currently resides in Austin, received the news yesterday that he had won "Song of the Year" at the 10th Annual Texas Music Awards for his song, "Monahans." This is the third time Higgins has won "Song of the Year."

The awards show was held Saturday, March 24th, inside the World Headquarters of the Academy of Texas Music in Linden, TX. Sanctioned by the Academy of Texas Music, the TMAs “recognize Texas talent and reward Texas pride.” The awards serve to recognize those performers, most of whom are independent artists not signed to major record labels, for their contributions to Texas music.

Kevin Higgins spent the first half of his life in El Paso, purchasing his first guitar with money earned from running carnival rides and grooming horses. When asked about the inspiration behind the award-winning song, Higgins cited, "It has been quite a journey for this song about a lovesick misfit who gets blindsided by the cold, hard reality of socio-economics. To stray from what is in the heart and gravitate towards financial security has long been a dilemma for both women and men alike. I am truly honored 'Monahans' has received this acclaim."

No stranger to the Texas Music Awards, Higgins has already collected six TMAs (2005-2010). He has appeared onstage at the 2001 Kerrville Folk Festival, had his song “Company Time” placed in the politically provocative film A Day Without A Mexican and EMI Records soundtrack, and has been hailed as “quite possibly the next great Texas songwriter" (RockzillaWorld.net). Americana-uk.com posted, "All the best singer songwriters come from Texas...Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Steve Earle, Lyle Lovett, Butch Hancock, Joe Ely, Nanci Griffith, Willie Nelson. The names go on, and now there’s one more to add to the list...Kevin Higgins."

This past summer, Higgins has had five of his songs recorded on new releases by Tina Mitchell Wilkins, Justin Haigh and The Texas Ladybugs.

When he's not busy writing, Higgins can be found brandishing a Telecaster and performing regularly around the state of Texas with his band, Cosmic Dust Devils. He also tours extensively several times a year with his wife and musical partner, Barbara Malteze, appearing as a duo at house concerts and listening rooms throughout the U.S. and Canada.
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For interview/appearance requests, contact:
Little Train Records, 9301 Spectrum Dr., #1235, Austin, TX 78717
512.525.1493 littletrainrecords@gmail.com

More information can be found on Kevin Higgins' website: www.KevinHigginsMusic.com

To view a complete list of award recipients and nominees, (including photos and audio) visit: www.TexasMusicAwards.org




- Press release, March 27, 2012

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Kevin & Barbara marked the first time we booked a show purely on the recommendation of a long time friend and host. Boy, were we glad! Their music was full of passion, humor and drama, telling tales we could all relate to. The 2nd set especially rocked and they made a lot of new fans. They arrived as strangers, left as friends."

(Laurie & Dave Blacker, Maplewood Concert Series ~ Livonia, MI)

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An unforgettable night of music. The caliber of music and songwriting experienced that night was beyond good or even great… “it was phenomenal.” If the opportunity to hear Kevin and Barbara in a listening setting ever comes your way, don't let it pass you by.

(Paula Reynolds, Hill Top House Concerts ~ Kerrville, TX)

(from a Hill Top house concert attendee to the host...) Paula, last night was magical, wasn't it? Something about Barbara and Kevin's poetry touched all of us. Conveying those feelings requires a certain vulnerability; both of them were so kind to share the feelings that we all share as fellow travelers on this planet. Bless you for continuing to open your home, facilitating these experiences for all of us. (Kat Walker)

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(Sold out show) ~ Kevin and Barbara put on one of the best house concerts that we have ever hosted. Playing in front of a room full of people that had never heard them before, they quickly won over the crowd with their great songs and friendly personalities. Kevin and Barbara started out with a room full of strangers and left with a room full of friends. Can’t wait to have them back.

(Mike & Peggy Dunham, Burritoville House Concerts ~ Sullivan, NH)


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Thank you for bringing your craft and sharing it with us here in the hinterlands of Northeast Pennsylvania. I'm sure I speak for all of us when I tell you that you and Barbara gave us a really special night!   Your art is "soul food"...music which draws me in deep, nurtures the spirit, creates and maintains human connections on a spiritual plane.  I'm grateful to you for putting it out there. There is truth and a nakedness in your music that strips away pretense and posturing and opens lines of discourse. Deeply appreciated.

I look forward to crossing paths again. Beyond the music I found you and Barbara to be a couple of truly genuine and engaging human beings and that's a commodity we can never get enough of!

(Brian McCloskey, Folk on the Foul Rift House Concerts ~ Mt. Bethel, PA)


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When I met Barbara and Kevin, they exceeded all of my expectations. These folks were two of the kindest people I have ever met. Their spirit translated to my entire audience and they instantly won over the crowd. The music was beautiful. They truly are a professional duo, and I would be honored to have them play at my house again. I have hosted a number of House Concerts, and this was one of the best and most successful. (Mike Moroski, host ~ Cincinnati, OH)


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These guys are AMAZING! Both as people and artists - a combination you cannot beat. What a great night. Perfect!

(Jim & Kelly Lively, Live at the Lively Gardens ~ Empire, MI)


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Kevin Higgins and Barbara Malteze are two of the best performing singer/songwriters in Texas! I was privileged to host them for a house concert and was impressed by their professionalism and musical delivery. It is very apparent that these two individuals have found themselves to be whole as a duo; both privately and professionally. Their music is easy to listen to and touches the heart, whether it is a fast paced rock style tune, or a slow, dreamy ballad. Kevin and Barbara's interaction with the audience is easy and unpretentious. They are delightful. My friends and I look forward to having them again for more house concerts.

(Marianne Stauffer, Stauffer's Stars House Concerts ~ Houston, TX)

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Kevin Higgins is the real deal! A brilliant songwriter, his deeply heartfelt clever lyrics captivate the audience. The addition of Barbara's harmony and keyboards makes for a performance you will never forget. We have already hosted them twice, and would welcome them back whenever they are in our region.

(Scott Silverman, host ~ Rockville, MD)



- various (2009-present)

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(Austin, TX) ~ Kevin Higgins, award-winning songwriter from West Texas, has just learned that five of his songs are being covered on new releases by Tina Mitchell Wilkins, Justin Haigh and The Texas Ladybugs.

Austin-based Tina Mitchell Wilkins has recorded Higgin's song "Infinity" on her sophomore release, Morning Glory (Highway 29 Records). With a voice described as "pure sunshine" (Jessie Colter), Tina said the song "...went straight to the center of my being. When we were gathering songs for the project, my husband Walt suggested I sing 'Infinity'." After hearing it on Higgins' 2010 release Find Your Shine (Little Train Records), Tina stated that "Kevin Higgins is one of the most prolific songwriters of our time...his songs swirl around in my head and make me think of Rumi, Rilke and Whitman." Tina's fans are in agreement, sending emails to her, saying "Infinity' is one of the most beautifully written songs they have ever heard."

Higgins has three songs placed on Justin Haigh's Nashville-produced sophomore release. Four years in the making, People Like Me (Apache Ranch Records) showcases Justin Haigh's selections of songs written by industry heavyweights Mary Gauthier, Jamey Johnson, Bobby Pinson, and Erv Woolsey (George Strait's longtime manager), however, it's Higgins' three songs that seem to be getting the nod more often then not by the critics. (AmericanaRoots.com) posted, "'Monahans', 'In Jail', and 'Gathering Dust' each are exemplary songs...you can listen to virtually any one of these songs and from these alone know you are hearing something very special." (Roughstock.com) enthused, “Monahans” is one of three absolutely fantastic tracks written by Higgins...it’s the kind of song I can see ending up as a track on Kenny Chesney’s next record...the other Higgins' tune, 'Gathering Dust,' is the kind of song that would’ve fit quite well on the Crazy Heart soundtrack." (CountryCalifornia.com) stated "Kevin Higgins contributes two of the album’s strongest tracks in 'Monahans' and 'In Jail.' Here, he's sort of the Billy Joe Shaver to Haigh's neotrad Honky Tonk Heros."

Upcoming, The Texas Ladybugs, based in the Hill Country, have recorded Higgins' "Alligator Mouth." Written in 2002, this feisty tune was made popular by Higgins' band, The Cosmic Dust Devils. Katherine Dawn, spokesperson and founding member of The Texas Ladybugs, reports their new CD will be released in September 2011 on Band Barn Records.

Collecting six Texas Music Awards since 2006, (including "Song of the Year" for the title cut of his latest CD, Find Your Shine), appearing onstage at the 2001 Kerrville Folk Festival, having his song “Company Time” placed in the politically provocative film A Day Without A Mexican and EMI Records soundtrack, Higgins has been hailed as “quite possibly the next great Texas songwriter" (RockzillaWorld.net), “a gifted songwriter” (Denver Post) and the late Grammy-winning producer and musician Barry Beckett had observed how “Kevin sings from the soul and his songs speak the truth.”

Kevin Higgins performs regularly around the state of Texas with his band, Cosmic Dust Devils. He also tours several times a year with his wife and musical partner, Barbara Malteze, appearing as a duo at house concerts and listening rooms throughout the U.S. and Canada.
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For interview/appearance requests, contact:

Little Train Records
9301 Spectrum Dr., #1235
Austin, TX 78717
512.525.1493
littletrainrecords@gmail.com - Press Release, July 26, 2011

For immediate release
April 10, 2009

(Marble Falls, TX) ~ Dale Kawashima, Executive Director of HoriPro Entertainment Group, (an internationally-known music publishing company), has announced that Kevin Higgins has won the April '09 SongwriterUniverse “Best Song of the Month” Contest. Higgins' winning entry, “Amazing Sense of Calm” was chosen from a field of over 200 entries, of all genres. Each song was judged on its artistic merit, originality, craft and market potential.

About the winning entry, Kawashima wrote, "'Amazing Sense of Calm' is a graceful, acoustic, midtempo ballad, which is in the vein of soulful ballads by Bruce Springsteen and Mark Knopfler.”

Kevin Higgins, (a 2000 New Folk Finalist and 2001 Main Stage performer at the Kerrville Folk Festival), is an award-winning songwriter based in Marble Falls. Higgins performs material from his extensive singer/songwriter catalog at house concerts and listening venues throughout the U.S. He is also the founder of the popular “Farm-to-Market Rock'n'Roll” band, The Dust Devils.

The “Best Song Of The Month Contest” honors and publicizes the top songs which are submitted each month to the popular SongwriterUniverse online magazine/website, which now attracts 75,000 visitors per month. This contest not only spotlights the winning song and songwriter, but also showcases the Top Five songs of the month. Many pro songwriters, A&R execs, publishers and producers check out the winning songs each month. Notably, the SongwriterUniverse Advisory Board consists of five, hit songwriters: Billy Steinberg, Brenda Russell, Allan Rich, Jud Friedman and Jeff Silbar.

Higgins' winning entry and article are posted here:
www.SongwriterUniverse.com

In addition to the honor of winning the songwriting contest, Higgins has also won: (1) a One-Year Primo Membership with Broadjam.com, which includes full access to their online promotional tools and services; (2) a copy of the "A&R Registry" directory book ; (3) a copy of the "Publishers Registry" directory book; (4) a copy of the "Indie Bible" resource book for independent artists ; (5) the instructional video, "Guitar Playing For Songwriters," by top Nashville session guitarist Gary Talley; and (6) Gold Artist Membership with online radio network & website, RadioIndy, which includes a free web page and internet radio airplay.

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For more information, or to schedule an interview, contact:
White Spur Music, 512.525.1493



- Press Release, April 10, 2009

(Austin, TX) ~ Kevin Higgins, award-winning songwriter based in Austin, Texas, is scheduled to release his contemporary folk/Americana-styled solo CD, Find Your Shine, on February 2, 2010. The CD has been shipped by Little Train Records to over 250 international radio and press outlets and VIPs within the music industry.

As veteran music journalist Rob Patterson observes in the disc’s liner notes, “On this CD, Kevin Higgins ascends to the pantheon of eloquent and evocative American singer-songwriters with that rare gift for articulating the fullness of human experience within splendid and alluring melodies.”

Find Your Shine is a kind of magical album, one that offers a musical, personal and metaphorical journey that also tours through Higgins’ own life and the realm of the imagination to transport the listener to those special places where music and lyrics touch the heart, mind and soul, ushering Higgins into same league as lauded and gifted Texas singer-songwriters like Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt and Steve Earle (all of whom Higgins has been likened to by critics and listeners while also forging his own creative signature).

Raised in El Paso, Higgins bought his first guitar with money earned from running carnival rides and grooming horses. He slogged through years in cover bands, lived on the streets and worked in luxury hotels, ran drugs across the border and chauffeured dignitaries, battled his indulgences and managed nightclubs, was beaten down by the status quo and hammered nails in the hot Texas sun before finally taking the great leap of pursuing his own music.

And along the way, collecting three Texas Music Awards in 2006, having his song “Company Time” placed in the politically provocative film A Day Without A Mexican and included on its EMI Records soundtrack album, Higgins has been hailed as “quite possibly the next great Texas songwriter" (RockzillaWorld.net), “a gifted songwriter” (Denver Post) and “one of the most talented songwriters around” (MyTexasMusic.com); noted Grammy-winning producer and musician Barry Beckett, member of the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio rhythm section heard on scores of legendary hit recordings, observed how “Kevin sings from the soul and his songs speak the truth.”

A club booker friend introduced Higgins to Austin producer Stephen Doster, whose many musical endeavors include being Nanci Griffith's musical director and collaborating with James Honeyman-Scott of The Pretenders. “When I first heard Kevin Higgins’ songs I was absolutely knocked out,” he recalls. He gathered with Higgins and wife/bandmate Barbara Malteze and a blue-ribbon roster of Austin players in East Austin Recording Studios, (J.J. Johnson, Chip Dolan, John Gammill, Warren Hood), for an inspired set of analog sessions recorded in seven days resulting in Find Your Shine. Practically all the lead vocal tracks were captured in one take.

“I believe this is an important record that needed to be made,” says Doster. And in doing so, Find Your Shine showcases a notable songwriting presence on the Texas and American roots music scene.

A series of CD release shows and media-related events will be held throughout the spring.

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For interview/appearance requests, contact: Barbara Malteze, Little Train Records 512.525.1493 - Press Release, January 5, 2010

For Immediate Release
October 26, 2010

(Austin, TX) ~ The award-winning husband-and-wife duo of Kevin Higgins and Barbara Malteze have just returned from a six-week national tour, promoting Higgins' newest acclaimed solo release, Find Your Shine, independently released on Little Train Records.

Performing original contemporary folk/Americana music, the couple played 20 shows in 11 states and logged over 8,900 miles of roads. The tour culminated with a trip to Port Aransas, Texas, where on the beach, Higgins and Malteze renewed vows celebrating their 10-year wedding anniversary. Afterwards, they performed with their band, The Dust Devils, for the "8th Annual Coastal Bender and Fan Appreciation Party", a yearly festival produced by the duo, attracting Dust Devils fans from all over the country to Port Aransas for 3 days of music and camaraderie.

Along the way, the couple sold out two shows; "Burritoville House Concert series" in Keene, NH and "Holly's Hacienda" house concert in Golden, CO. "It was a wonderful feeling of anticipation, looking forward to seeing friends from last year's tour, and making new friends this time around," Malteze said. "We're planting seeds, spreading the love and sharing music. It's a beautiful thing."

Life on the road also gave way to some unexpected time off, where Higgins and Malteze got to witness the beauty of nature, the changing of seasons and a chance to take in some sights; Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse National Monument, the Badlands, Black Hills, Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, Car Henge, Royal Gorge Bridge. "There were a lot of memorable events. We had a chance to camp at the foot of Devil's Tower in Wyoming and then there was the 'catch-and-release' incident on our way to Palo Duro canyon," said Higgins. Malteze explains, "we were on our way from Salida, Colorado to Palo Duro canyon to camp for the night. We were running out of time, so I was pushing it a little when I got pulled over by a State Trooper in Dallam county. When he found out we were musicians just arriving back into Texas, he was really cool, and let me go with a warning to slow down." Higgins laughs, "I pulled out the map and he even showed us the fastest way to get to Palo Duro canyon!"

The duo have plans to tour extensively in 2011, with an upcoming mini-tour to New Mexico and El Paso this December. "We performed in Canada this year, but we've never been to Europe. A lot of our CD sales come from overseas, so it only makes sense to try to make that tour happen," says Higgins.

Find Your Shine, available at Waterloo Records in Austin, CdBaby.com, MyTexasMusic.com and iTunes, was recorded in East Austin, with producer Stephen Doster at the helm. JJ Johnson added drum tracks, (on loan from John Mayer's band); with guest artists Chip Dolan, Warren Hood, John Gammill and John Leon.

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For more information, or to schedule appearances/interviews, contact:

Imaginery Friend Productions
9500 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. 1235
Austin, TX 78717
512.525.1493
littletrainrecords@gmail.com

www.KevinJamesHiggins.com




- Press Release, October 26, 2010

(Marble Falls, TX) ~ Kevin Higgins, award-winning Austin singer/songwriter and founding member of the popular Southern Rock band, The Dust Devils, is currently in the studio recording his upcoming indie solo CD, (working title: “Find Your Shine”).

It has been ten years since Higgins, a native of El Paso, released his first solo CD, “Dark Side of the Barn.” During those years, Higgins had focused his attention on writing, recording and promoting The Dust Devils, releasing five CDs in that time period. “I thought it was time for Kevin to step out from behind The Dust Devils and do some writing just for himself,” says Higgins' wife and bandmate, Barbara Malteze. “Kevin has an extensive collection of singer/songwriter material that the public doesn't get to hear very often. When we'd play some of those songs, our fans would say 'Wow...why haven't we heard these songs before?' So, I asked our fan base if they'd like to invest some money into Kevin's solo CD. In ten days, we had raised enough money to book the studio and pay for the whole project. That speaks volumes about people's belief in his talent. I'm very proud of him.”

Higgins and respected Austin producer Stephen Doster, (Nanci Griffith, Lyle Lovette, the late James Honeyman-Scott of The Pretenders), have begun working at Doster's new analog studio, EAR Studio, (East Austin Recording). When Higgins initially approached Doster about producing the project, Doster came aboard immediately. “When I first heard Kevin Higgins' new songs I was absolutely knocked out,” he said. “Like William Faulkner, Kevin's exceptional writing is rich with imagery and meaning, with characters so real you feel like you can touch them. I believe this is an important record that needed to be made.”

“Find Your Shine” is expected to be completed by mid-July, with JJ Johnson (John Mayer) playing drums; Malteze adding piano, synths and backup vocals; and Doster contributing guitar parts and backing vocals. Other guest performers include Warren Hood on violin and mandolin, (The Waybacks); John Leon adding pedal steel (Summer Wardrobe); and Chip Dolan (Cyril Neville, Marcia Ball) on organ and accordion.

Higgins and Malteze, performing as a duo (guitar/keys), are planning a 5-week national tour later this fall to promote the CD. One of the highlight events on the tour will be when the duo hosts a 3-day river rafting trip on the Rio Grand River through Big Bend National Park, which ties-in the “West Texas” theme of the CD.

# # #

For more information, or to schedule an interview contact:

Imaginery Friend Productions
27615 Turner Ranch Road
Marble Falls, TX 78654
512.525.1493
thedustdevils@gmail.com

www.myspace.com/kevinhigginssolo
- Press Release, June 24, 2009

"On their new release, Texas rockers The Dust Devils come out of the chute with a pure Austin-style title track, with Barbara Malteze giving 110 percent as she always does. If the rocker “Looking for Pearl” was my favorite cut on the first album, “Hurry Sundown” captures that title this time around. I have compared Barbara’s voice to Dale Krantz during the Rossington Collins reign, and while I still hold onto that comparison, I get a real Ann Wilson/Heart feel here as well.

Kevin Higgins sings “Amazing Sense of Calm,” a moody, laid back song with some truly inspired lyrics, and “Home” is a beautiful duet between Barbara and Kevin.

Change in the Weather is a great album, filled with straight up rock and roll and low down country, all melded together seamlessly by an ultra talented Texas road band.

(Swampland.com, 2006)


# # #

"This is an awesome record. Kevin Higgins is a fabulous songwriter, penning songs about the hope born of hard times. ...as mainstream country music gets sillier, acts like the Dust Devils are filling a much-needed niche in the American music scene."

(HighBias.com, 2006)


# # #

"Live passion is captured with studio clarity and perfection throughout the disc. The title track is so wonderfully arranged and performed it almost sets the bar too high for the rest of the album as the opening cut...

"Barbara Malteze is mesmerizing...Kevin Higgins is one of the most talented songwriters around. His writing is best described as ‘entertaining’ and isn’t that why we buy music in the first place?

"This tightly wound storm is still packing a punch."

(MyTexasMusic.com, 2006) - various

“…the concept of the American album experience is becoming a lost art at the dawn of the 21st century, and only a few bands such as Wilco and Los Lobos seem to have the inventiveness down. Add The Cosmic Dust Devils to this short list.

"Their self-titled debut ebbs and flows with a sense of purpose, giving the listener an aural journey through their version of Texas, and by proxy, America as a microcosm.

"Led by singer/songwriter Kevin Higgins (whose 1998 solo album, Dark Side of the Barn, was one of the classic country/folk/rock albums of that year), this expanded group album continues his highly personalized take on his life and the saga of this country…spiritually, and metaphysically.

"Musically, the band has a delightfully rustic appeal…a cohesive whole that surrounds the listener with a sort of Cinemascope panorama that manages to be homespun and expansive at the same time, which is no easy feat…the band is loaded with talent.

"This igloo of talent and perspicacity supports Higgins' brilliant and intimate vision perfectly, making Cosmic Dust Devils a sparkling and important release.”

(AllMusicGuide.com, 2002)


# # #


“This is Americana music at its best…”

(InsurgentCountry.com, 2002)


# # #

“…The Cosmic Dust Devils is one of those bands that has something to offer everyone..”

(Best In Texas Magazine, 2002)


# # #

“...roots/heartland-style rock and plenty of Texas country,
(Higgins) writes it with authority...”
(San Antonio Express-News, 2002)


# # #

“…Kevin Higgins (is) quite possibly the next great Texas songwriter…
…this (stuff) ain't been heard in years…Rusty and Steven and Ray and Billy Joe are still making cool music…but nobody's gashing something open just to throw some salt in it and see what happens before leaving you with a big sloppy kiss anymore…”

(Rockzillaworld.net, 2002)


# # #


“The Cosmic Dust Devils are the heart and soul of Americana music…”

(Rick Star, Americana Music Association, 2003)

# # #



- various

"On their new release, Texas rockers The Dust Devils come out of the chute with a pure Austin-style title track, with Barbara Malteze giving 110 percent as she always does. If the rocker “Looking for Pearl” was my favorite cut on the first album, “Hurry Sundown” captures that title this time around. I have compared Barbara’s voice to Dale Krantz during the Rossington Collins reign, and while I still hold onto that comparison, I get a real Ann Wilson/Heart feel here as well.

Kevin Higgins sings “Amazing Sense of Calm,” a moody, laid back song with some truly inspired lyrics, and “Home” is a beautiful duet between Barbara and Kevin.

Change in the Weather is a great album, filled with straight up rock and roll and low down country, all melded together seamlessly by an ultra talented Texas road band.

(Swampland.com, 2006)


# # #

"This is an awesome record. Kevin Higgins is a fabulous songwriter, penning songs about the hope born of hard times. ...as mainstream country music gets sillier, acts like the Dust Devils are filling a much-needed niche in the American music scene."

(HighBias.com, 2006)


# # #

"Live passion is captured with studio clarity and perfection throughout the disc. The title track is so wonderfully arranged and performed it almost sets the bar too high for the rest of the album as the opening cut...

"Barbara Malteze is mesmerizing...Kevin Higgins is one of the most talented songwriters around. His writing is best described as ‘entertaining’ and isn’t that why we buy music in the first place?

"This tightly wound storm is still packing a punch."

(MyTexasMusic.com, 2006) - various

"This husband-and-wife act is one to watch...

"Higgins is a gifted songwriter...fine voice...

"(Malteze) vocally more than holds her own...

"excellent music..."

(Denver Post, 2005)


# # #

"...nobody's writing it any better than Kevin Higgins, or singing it with more lights-out ferocity and passion than Barbara Malteze...like Townes, Higgins has figured out a thing or two about this life deal...Higgins knows his way around songwriting, maybe because he's figured out his way around the soul. And with Barbara beside him, he can't lose...these two together have the power to change the way you think and feel about music..."

(Texicana Music Central, 2005)


# # #

"..Higgins is a most gifted writer, on par with the legendary cowboy poet Red Stegall...Malteze's vocal delivery varies dramatically, from smooth as silk while on other songs, she sounds like Janis Joplin (when she was at her very best)...when two individuals this talented come together, the end result is pure magic..."

(CountryStarsOnline.com, 2005)


# # #

"Kevin Higgins and Barbara Malteze harp back to the glory days of Bonnie Bramlett and Marshall Tucker Band. If these guys had a residency in one of the rougher Glasgow pubs, they would attract the same kind of head banging crowd. They would think this was the best band in the world."

(Maverick UK, 4.5 stars, 2006) 


# # #

"The immediate thing that stands out about the Dust Devils is their commitment to keeping the sound of Southern rock alive without pandering or being sheer clones of a sound so wonderfully cherished by so many. This straight-up and unapologetic Southern rock refuses to let up until the final grooves run out, and will appeal to fans of the sound regardless of favorite band or preference. There's something here for everyone, from the straight-ahead driving guitar anthem "Southern Tears" to the blues-rocking Janis Joplin ode "Looking for Pearl" to the sincere and mellow "Friends." Further proof that the sound of South never went away — it just got better with age."

(All Music Guide, 2006)


# # #

"The Texas duo of Kevin Higgins and Barbara Maltese turn in a tight, creative country rock set filled with great lyrical stories, powerful melodies and addictive guitar work....reminiscent of a rock band like Drive By Truckers.

"Both Kevin and Barbara have great, unique voices...a powerful CD that simply commands your attention.

"A great album of country rock with a hint of good ol’ Southern rock swank."

(Gritz.net, 2006)


# # #

"The Dust Devils is a unique band to say the least. The lead vocalist Kevin Higgins sucks you in and does not allow you to leave his presence until the entire album is finished. When it is over your left mesmerized. Barbara Malteze is icing on this already sweet cake...big voices, big words, big music...”

"The meticulous lyrics pull you in and capture your attention putting you exactly where they want you to go.

"Now don’t let me forget Ms. Malteze, Honey, in the song “Looking for Pearl” I’d say you found her. Janis Joplin reincarnated! Spread your “Angel Wings” girl, you got my attention and I’m digging what I’m hearing!

"The Dust Devils deserve recognition and praise for what their doing. They have created a genre all their own. I’m inspired!"

(Music News Nashville,
4.5 out of 5 stars, 2006)


# # #

"...(Gathering Dust) sounds a little like Robert Earl Keen with a mean streak. 

"That’s the quality that makes the Dust Devils sound like they’re destined for heavy radio rotation and almost certain major label success. Higgins can write a serious hook and back it up with clever lyrical riffs...

"When Malteze steps out in front, the first thing you notice is her voice...full of twangy emotion that straddles the common thread between gospel, blues, country and soul...but at the same time, the lady can wail...

"For my money, these guys are at their best when they’re reminding us just how much the South rocked the seventies."

(SlackerCountry.com, 2006)


# # #

"This is an awesome record. Kevin Higgins is a fabulous songwriter, penning songs about the hope born of hard times. ...as mainstream country music gets sillier, acts like the Dust Devils are filling a much-needed niche in the American music scene."

(HighBias.com, 2006)


# # #

"The Dust Devils have developed their own brand of music. Kevin Higgins has emerged as a driving force behind a distinctive sound. Higgins’ songwriting never ceases to be stellar, spinning yarns about Texas life with clever innuendo and an occasional matter-of-fact glare at the obvious. Coupled with Barbara Malteze, Higgins delivers flawlessly with a subtle laid-back style that has real kick. This ‘velvet-rock’ release has a southern rock feel as Higgins and Malteze garner a sound reminiscent of The Outlaws and Blackhawk. If there’s a Janis Joplin incarnate, it’s Barbara Malteze. This - various

http:// - Press Release, May 24, 2010

Keene, NH ~ Kevin Higgins, award-winning songwriter from Austin, performed a sold-out show at Mike and Peggy Dunham's “Burritoville House Concert” in Keene, New Hamphire on Saturday, September 12, 2009.

Higgins and wife/bandmate Barbara Malteze are in the midst of a 5-week national tour promoting Higgins' newest solo release, “Find Your Shine.” The tour will take the duo through 26 states, log over 8,000 miles and encompass 12 performances at house concerts and listening rooms in such major cities as New York, Philadelphia and Cincinnati.

“We were excited to hear that the Burritoville House Concert was sold out, with over 50 people in attendance. More than 25 people had to be turned away. Mike and Peggy's house was already bursting at the seams!” Malteze exclaimed. “We had a great time getting to know the folks in that region and performing for them. Can't wait to go back again next year,” Higgins added.

“Find Your Shine” was recorded in East Austin, with producer Stephen Doster at the helm. JJ Johnson added drum tracks, (on loan from John Mayer's band); with guest artists Chip Dolan, Warren Hood, John Gammill and John Leon.

Kevin Higgins and Barbara Malteze, (founding members of The Dust Devils), perform with their band throughout Texas.

# # #

For more information, or to schedule appearances/interviews, contact:
Imaginery Friend Productions, 512.525.1493 - Press release, Sept 14, 2009