Music For My Peers

A Long Time Coming

2010-03-09T01:33:00.002-05:00

Sorry it's been so long since i did a post. I haven't had a day off in like 2 weeks and it's been hard to find the time to write for all of you. But now the good news is that i have quite a bit of new music to share with you. So let's get right to it shall we? The first group I have to share with you is Frightened Rabbit. They are quintet from Scotland who have recently begun to nudge their way into the public eye. They are an unconventional band with a folky pop feel. They have a knack for singing songs about ordinary people or situations, but using their upbeat and epic sound to bring out a feeling of greatness and making those people or situations feel extraordinary and significant. The band themselves also feel as though they are ordinary guys. The lead singer Scott's voice cracks and may not be exactly on pitch at times, but it gives them authenticity and really works with their sound. It makes them sound genuine. Take a listen to these tracks and enjoy.

Frightened Rabbit - The Twist

Frightened Rabbit - Swim Until You Can't See Land

Frightened Rabbit - Living In Colour

The Next group I have for you is The Morning Benders. I featured them in one of my previous posts as a band you have to hear. I am including them here because they have a brand new album out today (3/9) called Big Echo. It is there second studio LP and brings about some definite changes in there sound. The sound on previous records has been more fast paced alt rock based. They have been in your face and featured driving drum beats. On this new record however, they have taken a different route, aiming more for the Phil Specter "wall of sound." They sound more distant and grand in the mixes. The instrumentation has improved and expanded as well. The songs on Big Echo are more like composed pieces of music than just a four piece band playing some songs. It shows major growth in the way they write and understand music. I have been incredibly excited to hear this new record and it has lived up to all my expectations of being creative, different, and just plain good. Now I just can't wait to see what they do next. Here are a few tracks for your listening pleasure.

The Morning Benders - Excuses

The Morning Benders - Cold War (Nice Clean Fight)

The Morning Benders - All Day Day Light

The third artist on my list is Andrew Belle. It's is not a common occurance to come across an artist with the ability to catch my full attention with just a 30 second clip, but that happened when I listened to the title track off Andrew's latest album "The Ladder" for the first time. Andrew is a singer /songwriter out of Chicago. His voice is incredibly unique. It is deep and soothing and kind, and it drew me in immediately. His music is beautiful and well written with flowing and catchy melodies. His lyrics are personal and easy to relate to. Everything about Andrew Belle just fits and feels right while you are listening. If you like artists like Coldplay, The Fray, or Peter Bradley Adams (featured on a previous blog) then you will like Andrew Belle.

Andrew Belle - The Ladder

Andrew Belle - Static Waves

Andrew Belle - My Oldest Friend

Next we have a band called This World Fair. It is the brainchild of Chris Kalgren who hails from Minneapolis. Unlike the rest of the artists this is not a new release but the music is new to me (and hopefully you too). I heard about This World Fair a while back but never really got around to actually checking them out until last week and I am definitely glad I did. Chris write fantastic guitar driven pop/rock songs that have that epic feel like they are in a huge room shouting at the top of their lungs to make the rafters shake. They are powerful and uplifting. The sound reminds me of Tonic or Coldplay or even Wings at times. The songs are very well crafted and catchy and the lyrics, which are inspired by past experiences are personal and emotional. To sum up, This World Fair is music at it's best. You will want to be blasting them on your radio as soon as possible. I have included a couple songs off their latest EP as well my favorite off their debut self-titled album. Hope you like them.

This World Fair - White Flag

This World Fair - Brother Run

This World Fair - This Morning

Last but not least I have my artist you have to hear for this week. Brother Ali is probably one of the most talented Rap artists I have ever heard. Also hailing from Minneapolis, Brother Ali is part of the Rhymesayers crew. He is a confident genius of the microphone. His level of lyrical talent and his ability to write songs that have messages and deep thoughts are what make him great. And it's not just a few songs that showcase this talent, he now has three full length albums and numerous EPs that all carry a consistent level of brilliance. His descriptions of situations and places make you feel like you are there with him. To put it in his own words "you can call [him] modern urban Norman Rockwell, [he] paints a picture of the spot well." He is very personal and introspective in many of his songs, which gives his listeners a window into his life to experience what he has gone through to get to this point. He puts everything out in the open and boldly and eloquently speaks the truth. I urge you listen closely to these songs and to what Brother Ali has to say because he is amazing.

Brother Ali - Begin Here

Brother Ali - Picket Fence

Brother Ali - Sleepwalker

Brother Ali - Room With A View

Brother Ali - Uncle Sam Goddamn

Brother Ali - Crown Jewel

Zeus, Dr. Dog, and Elbow

2010-02-17T02:41:00.000-05:00

Holy crap I actually got a post finished for Wednesday like I used to when I first started. Ok, so the first bit of music I have for you this week is the new debut album by Zeus titled "Say Us" (I mentioned them in my first post). It doesn't come out on CD until the 23rd but it became available on vinyl on the 9th. I have finally obtained a copy and it is just as good as I expected and then some. I had a lot of expectations for this album based on their EP "Sounds Like Zeus," and I have to say that I feel that Zeus delivered with a bang. Great 60s and 70s psychedelic folk/rock feel with awesome harmonies. The sound is sort of Kinks meets The Stones with some Beatles Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da style piano thrown in the mix. They write great catchy tunes that are not your everyday pop although they still have a poppy feel. This is the kind of cd that I could listen to over and over like it better each time. Zeus are definitely an up and coming band that should be on everyone's watch list and with a debut like this, one can only dream of the possibilities. I've posted two songs below and there are others in my first post.

Zeus - The Renegade

Zeus - Kindergarten

The next bit of music this week comes from a group called Dr. Dog. I would probably put them in the same category as Zeus musically. They have a psychedelic, folky feel with poppy 60s style vocals. However they have a unique modern take on the sound of the 60s. They are continually pushing boundaries of sound and experimenting with different methods of creating music that doesn't necessarily emulate the sounds of the 60s but builds upon them in exciting ways. Dr Dog continues to improve with each release and hopefully their sixth, "Shame, Shame," will not stray from this trend. Below is their new single "Shadow People," as well as two favorites of mine.

Dr. Dog - Shadow People

Dr. Dog - The Girl

Dr. Dog - From

My band of the week this week is Elbow. Hailing from the UK, they are like Coldplay but with a little more of an edge. I suppose you could say they draw much of their sound from a lot of the British alternative/pop bands like Coldplay, Radiohead, Blur, Doves, etc, though they have crafted something that is uniquely their own. They have a jazzy/pop feel to them with light and airy vocals that feel like they reach up to the ceilings of a giant cathedral. This is sort of the point since they recorded their latest album "The Seldom Seen Kid" in their own personal studio facility which they call "The Elbow Room" or now most recently "The Big Room." They are incredibly innovative and do a remarkable job of experimenting with different styles of music and rhythm. Check out a few tracks from there last two albums (including "An Audience With The Pope," which is probably one of the coolest takes on a love song I have ever heard) and be sure to keep an eye out for their next release which they just recently began working on.

Elbow - Forget Myself

Elbow - The Bones Of You

Elbow - An Audience With The Pope

It's All About The Rock & Roll

2010-02-12T02:09:00.002-05:00

As a necessary requirement for the music this week (or at least the first two artists), I'm going to ask you to turn up your volume to at least 90%. Ok, the first group this week is Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Based out of LA this trio create good old fashioned rock music. They have been around since their first record (B.R.M.C.) hit the scene in 1999. Their sound is inspired by British rock bands like Jesus and the Mary Chain or The Verve. They play fuzzed out, feedback heavy guitars with a driving rock beat that gets your feet stomping and your hands clapping. Their records seem to have two different styles. The first two albums were very electric guitar based and rugged. But with their third release (Howl) they drew more on acoustic guitar and folky Bob Dylan-esque sounds, while still keeping that foot stomping beat. "Howl" got a great response so it was a surprise when "Baby 81" came out and they had reverted back to the electric guitar heavier rock sound. But, the album was incredible so no complaints from me. Now they have a new album due out March 9th and the single, "Beat The Devil's Tattoo," that was just released this week hints at a return to the acoustic influence. It has a folk backwoods feel to it but then heavy guitars come in and it reminds me of Queens of the Stone Age or Eagles of Death Metal. In Short, heavy fuzzed out guitars, vocals like dylan or Lennon, and heart pounding beats; what could be better?

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Spread Your Love (B.R.M.C.)

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Ain't No Easy Way (Howl)

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Berlin (Baby 81)

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Beat The Devil's Tattoo (New Single)

The next song I have for you is Jimi Hendrix's new single. That's right if you didn't know already there is a new Jimi Hendrix album coming out with unreleased stuff. Hell Yeah! The single is the title track called "Valleys of Neptune." I think it was actually part of some special compilation but it was never officially released. Anyway, the songs were recorded during Jimi's last studio session and the album is set for release on March 9th. Valleys of Neptune is typical Hendrix with great psychedelic guitar riffs and that voice we all miss. To me, the sound seems to be between "Electric Ladyland" and "First Rays of the New Rising Sun." Take a listen.

Jimi Hendrix - Valleys of Neptune

My artist you have to hear this week is Scott Matthews. Scott is a singer songwriter from the UK. His debut album "Passing Stranger" consists of, what I like to call, acoustic blues songs with a twist. He uses melodies and tunes that are influenced by worldly music such as Middle Eastern, Indian, or European folk sounds. He has a voice that reminds me of Eddie Vedder in that is exudes power but stays reserved and soft. His second album was released late last June and is called "Elsewhere." It still has that worldly feel that is helped by the artistic influence of Robert Plant. It has more variety of sounds than his first album, and though I think that I prefer the first album, "Elsewhere" is still fantastic, creative, and unique music that makes Scott Matthews an artist to watch.

Scott Matthews - Underlying Lies (Elsewhere)

Scott Matthews - Fractured (Elsewhere)

Scott Matthews - Dream Song (Passing Stranger)

Scott Matthews - City Headache (Passing Stranger)

Hope you enjoyed the music and that I didn't completely destroy your eardums.

-Emerson

Civil Twilight, Justin Nozuka, and Soul Position

2010-02-04T01:57:00.000-05:00

I've got a few great artists for you this week. The first is a trio from Cape Town, South Africa called "Civil Twilight". They are mostly influenced by British pop/rock bands that they heard coming out of Europe when they were growing up. This repertoire of artists includes Radiohead, Muse, The Verve, U2, The Police, etc. The influence of these groups is definitely evident on the self-titled debut album. The lyrics are inspired and the vocals are powerful, yet warm and soothing. The music is very melodic and has that epic arena rock sound heard from Coldplay or U2. Civil Twilight are a great up and coming group that I think will inevitably make it big. Take a listen to a few tracks and you're sure to be a fan.

Civil Twilight - Letters From The Sky

Civil Twilight - Human

Civil Twilight - Trouble

I discovered Justin Nozuka just after his debut album "Holly" was released. Justin is a young singer/songwriter from Canada. He writes incredibly personal and passionate songs that have some depressing subject matter, but with catchy melodies that give much of his music an uplifting tone. He has a soulful and sometimes bluesy sound that will have you singing along and wanting to play the album all over again. The talent that he displays as a 16 year old is enough to make your jaw drop. With his sophomore album "You I Wind Land And Sea" slated to drop at the end of March Justin has released some demos to fans receiving his newsletter. Take a listen to a few of those tracks as well my favorite from "Holly."

Justin Nozuka - I Think I'm In Love [Demo]

Justin Nozuka - Swan In The Water [Demo]

Justin Nozuka - Be Back Soon

I thought that since I haven't had many hip-hop groups to share with you lately that I would feature one as my group you must hear this week. Soul Position is a collaboration between satirical lyricist Blue Print who hails from Columbus, OH where I grew up and DJ RJD2. They are on an independent record label out of Minneapolis, MN called Rhymesayers which houses some of my favorite rappers. These are two artists at the top of there game who make some incredible songs together. This is rap as it should be; intelligent and observant artists rapping about problems with society not becoming part of a fad. Take a listen to these songs and pay attention to the lyrics. Unlike some rappers today, they actually make sense.

Soul Position - Hand-Me-Downs

Soul Position - The Cool Thing To Do

Soul Position - Priceless

Better Late Than Never

2010-01-29T01:18:00.001-05:00

Sorry it took me so long to get this post up. I had more technical difficulties and i ended up having to switch my music player because the other one was giving me problems. Anyway, I am pretty psyched this week because Gorillaz has a new single and a new album coming out and the single is awesome! They are back in a big way with Mos Def and R&B/Soul legend Bobby Womack featured on their first single titled "Stylo." The song is driven by an infectious, funky, techno/dance beat that is typical of Gorillaz music. Mos Def starts out the tune with a nice short rhyme; but what makes this song great is the vocals by Bobby Womack. He has that classic 70s sound that could be straight out of "Shaft" or "Starsky and Hutch" but is's a sound that is not often heard over an electro hip/hop beat. It is an interesting sound and has grown on me every time I have listened to this song. The creativity and musical genius of Gorillaz is hard to match. They are continually pushing boundaries and creating masterpieces that are beyond their time. I for one am pumped for their new album. Take a listen to "Stylo" and be sure to check out the album "Plastic Beach" when it drops on March 9th.

Gorillaz - Stylo (Album Version)

Keeping with the R&B/Soul sound, the next artist I ahve for you is Corinne Bailey Rae. Her new CD "The Sea" was released on Tuesday and it is wonderful. Corinne has a gorgeous voice that is mellow, jazzy, and smooth. She can be soft and intimate and then other times more sultry and funky. Her songwriting ability seems to have only improved with this new album. The expanded the styles of songs that she writes and, like her debut record, her lyrics are personal and poetic. She creates a mood with her songs to engulf your mind and draw you in to her world. This album is one that is a great listen all the way through. Take a listen to these tracks (especially her cover of Jimi Hendrix's "Little Wing" because it is sick) and then buy the record because it is worth every penny.

Corinne Bailey Rae - Feels Like The First Time

Corinne Bailey Rae - The Blackest Lily

Corinne Bailey Rae - Little Wing

My featured band this week is a group from Glasgow, Scotland appropriately named "Glasvegas." I guess the best way to decribe this band would be epic arena rock (think U2) meets 50s girl groups and Phil Spector's wall of sound. They have gleaming poppy vocals that disguise the somewhat depressing lyrics and still give the album an overall uplifting feel. This group are one of the more unique bands to come out of the UK in a while. You should turn your volume way up for this band. It makes it sound even better. Enjoy.

Glasvegas - Geraldine

Glasvegas - Daddy's Gone

Glasvegas - Flowers & Football Tops

Kansas City Jammers Ride Again

2010-01-21T23:30:00.000-05:00

Sorry that my post is so late this week, I had some technical difficulties getting the post to work. I have also been busy this week and I didn't want to just throw something together because you deserve nothing but the best from me because that's what you came here looking for. So before I get to anything else, I have a concert to review for you. This weekend I had the pleasure of attending a show that was inspiring to say the least. The Kansas City Jammers formed in 1971 at Ohio Wesleyan University and spent most of their career playing small gigs at frats and college bars around the state. When they split they put their dreams of fame on the back-burner, but this past weekend they got back together to play a benefit show at OWU and live out the dream, if only for one night. The concert was absolutely amazing. These guys still know how to rock a show. KCJ have that great sound from the late 60s early 70s. They fuse folk, rock, and psychedelic music to create gorgeous songs with harmonies inspired by the likes of The Rolling Stones, Simon & Garfunkel, CSN&Y, and The Beatles. They sing catchy tunes with heartfelt and personal lyrics (With a few goofy exceptions) and even though it's been over 35 years since they split, The Jammers sounded as though they had been playing together non-stop since 1972. They had a chemistry at the show that can only be shared by long time friends and such great enthusiasm on stage you could tell how much they appreciated every single person in the room. They rocked, they rolled, and they serenaded listeners who came from far and wide for another chance to hear some incredibly talented and wonderful human beings fulfill the dream they created in 1971. As I said, it was inspiring. Take a listen to some songs from the original album titled "Got Good (If You Get It)" and as soon as the show is up on youtube, I'll post the link.

Kansas City Jammers - Midnight Watch

Kansas City Jammers - For Father

Kansas City Jammers - Back Road Woman

Kansas City Jammers - Live In Harmony

The next band I have for you this week is Cavalier Rose, a four piece band from Brooklyn, NY. When I first heard this group I was blown away because the sound is so unique and awesome. Their songs fuse bluesy rock songs with jazzy rhythms. This by itself is enough to grab my attention. But then, throw in a female lead singer who has a voice like a soulful, strung out swing jazz singer from the 50s with a sexy swagger, and you just may have one of my new favorite bands. Heather Christian (lead singer/pianist) creates an intense mosaic of emotions with her voice and words; at times sounding desperate and strained, while others soft and beautiful. Her voice accents the music in a way that will send shivers down your spine. This is probably one of the most exciting new finds I have heard in a long time because they have such a different and creative sound. Take a listen to these amazing songs, all of which are available for free on cavalierrose.com

Cavalier Rose - Primary Colors

Cavalier Rose - Lie To Me

Cavalier Rose - Kiss Me In Closets

My band you have to hear this week is Citizen Cope. Citizen cope is actually Clarence Greenwood, a singer/songwriter from Brooklyn. He has an infectious sound that is slow urban hip-hop rhythm with rural, bluesy melodies. He has a lazy slurred voice that is soulful and perfect for the sound he creates which is very laid back and mellow. This is the kind of music that will have you bobbing your head and humming long after it is over. I have decided to feature Citizen Cope this week because I just got a hold of the pre-release EP from his new album "The Rainwat LP" and I couldn't wait to share it with everybody. So turn your speakers up, lean back, and listen to some absolutely fantastic songs. The first three are from his pre-release and the fourth one is a favorite from his last album "Every Waking Moment."

Citizen Cope - Healing Hands

Citizen Cope - Keep Askin'

Citizen Cope - Lifeline

Citizen Cope - All Dressed Up

Next week I will hopefully have my blog up on time. Hope you think this week was worth the wait. Until next time enjoy listening.

-Emerson

Peter Bradley Adams

2010-01-15T03:00:00.002-05:00

This is a special post because I want to acknowledge Peter Bradley Adams and his manager Marc and thank them for commenting on my blog. I think it is awesome when musicians are interested in what lowly, non-official critics have to say about you because some artists could care less. I really appreciate the links to the songs too, because I am always looking forward to hearing new music and I plan on buying "Traces" tomorrow. If anyone didn't get a chance to check out the new songs they are from the new album "Traces" which was released on Oct. and they are posted at the end of this blog. If you want to download them the links are there too. I also want to give a more thorough review of this wonderful music because Peter deserves the praise.

Rarely do you find an artist with such raw talent not only musically but lyrically as well. Peter Bradley Adams possesses this rare gift. His incredibly soothing and soulful voice impeccably compliments the music he makes. His lyrics are deep and moving and very heartfelt. His songs bring emotion to the surface and leave you with a lingering impression in your soul. This is not just one track I am referring to either; it is consistent throughout his entire repertoire of albums and that does not happen because of luck. This the kind of music that can stop you in your tracks and force you to listen. Peter Bradley Adams is the real deal and seems only to be getting better with each consecutive album. Don't miss this exceptional display of genuine musical ability.

Peter Bradley Adams - For You

Peter Bradley Adams - From The Sky

Peter Bradley Adams - One Picture (From "Gather Up")

Peter Bradley Adams - Los Angeles (Winter '09)

Here are the links to download these songs:
www.peterbradleyadams.com/free/ep
www.peterbradleyadams.com/free/foryou

I also have the link to buy his new album traces here if you want to show your support:
Peter Bradley Adams on Amazon

Thanks again to Marc and Peter and keep making great music.

- Emerson

Me Likey

2010-01-13T11:32:00.000-05:00

Well...another week has gone by. I've been busy this week getting new music for everyone and I think I have found some pretty great stuff. The first band, OK Go, is known to many by their awesome music video for the song "here it goes again." Their third album "Of The Blue Colour Of The Sky" was released yesterday and I have to say from the moment you hear track 1 you can tell it's gonna be a completely different sound than we are used to. The first song is a bass heavy, funky, Prince and Muse inspired gem that sucks you in and prepares you for the album to come (the first time I heard this song I was like "damn"). What follows does not have the poppy, cheerful vocals and upbeat rock music that were prevalent on the last record. Instead we are greeted by a funky psychedelic 80s style dance record. To some this may sound disconcerting but I assure you that Kulash and the gang pull it off nicely (think MGMT). And, their old sound still manages to shine through this new dark and hazy sound at times. I have included two tracks that I think will give you decent picture of the overall album. "WTF?" is the first track that I mentioned before.

OK Go - WTF?

OK Go - I Want You So Bad I Can't Breathe

The second arist this week is Peter Bradley Adams. He is a singer/songwriter from Brooklyn with an acoustic guitar and a great voice. Erin actually heard a song by this guy on the show Brothers and Sisters so we checked out his album. I am only going to write one word to describe the music Peter makes on this album: beautiful.

Peter Bradley Adams - The Longer I Run

Peter Bradley Adams - I'll Forget You

The third group is a special treat because this album isn't really out yet. Spoon is four guys from Austin, TX who have been around playing dirty gritty fuzzed out alt rock since 1993. They have consistently been able to progress their sound and set the bar incredibly high for all the other indie rock bands with their creativity. This next album, titled Transference, is no exception. The single "Written In Reverse" is an incredible piece of songwriting craftsmanship. It has some nasty dissonant chords and some rough and stressed vocals which create this sense of urgency like you know the outcome of something and you're trying to warn someone about it. The rest of the album is just as amazing and forward thinking. Spoon are the epitome of cool as always.

Spoon - Written In Reverse

Spoon - Trouble Comes Running

My band you must hear this week is The Morning Benders. Hailing from Berkley, CA these guys have been one of my favorite bands since i first heard them. They are an indie-pop band with great musical sense. They write simple songs with subtle complexities and by that I mean they don't overdo production or add things that don't need to be there. The songs have a simple sound but the subtleties in rhythm or chord progression make them interesting. I also like that they write many different types of songs and like to play in different styles. They have released alternate versions of several of their songs for eg. they released the "super soul" version of Damnit Anna which slowed the song way down and gave it a little more swagger. Another reason I like The Morning Benders is that they are influenced by, and pay homage to, some of my favorite classic bands like The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, or even Paul Simon. I highly recommend downloading their free album "Bedroom Covers" because it is all covers of people that influenced them. I chose the Morning benders for this week because they just released a free single from their upcoming album "Big Echo" called "Promises" so I figured I could share that with you as well as some other stuff. Take a listen and I hope you enjoy.

The Morning Benders - Promises

The Morning Benders - Grain Of Salt

The Morning Benders - Patient Patient

I hope you liked the music this week. Stay tuned for more.

- Emerson

New Music For A New Year

2010-01-06T02:58:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everybody! I hope you had a great holiday. So it's that time again and I have some new music for you that I think you will like.

First off is an artist named Jonah Smith who I have been listening to for a while who just recently released a new CD this past Aug. It's been about 3 years since his last release and I just got my hands on it yesterday. I first saw him in Cincy opening for Xavier Rudd. Jonah played what looked like an old pump organ and absolutely rocked the house. He was probably one of the best openers I have seen that I previously knew nothing about. Jonah has a raspy, soulful voice that at times reminds me of John Mellencamp or early Phil Collins. His songs are wonderfully crafted with aspects of Jazz, Soul, and Funk. Most songs on the new LP titled "Lights On" are soft and easy but the album is rounded nicely by a few upbeat poppy tracks. I have 2 songs here for you to listen to but you should also check out some of his older stuff because it is also amazing.

Jonah Smith - Love Gets Lost

Jonah Smith - Can't Find My Way Home

The second group I have is Vampire Weekend. They are an indie-pop group out of NYC who have hit it big time with their self titled debut album. Their second album titled "Contra" is set to release next week and has been creating a lot of hype. After listening to the new album I have to say that I think they are fully capable of living up to the standards everyone has set for them. Contra picks up right where Vampire Weekend left off. It continues the trend of Paul Simon-esque Afro-pop with 80s new wave reggae beats reminiscent of The Police and just like its predecessor, the arrangements of instruments on this record are nothing short of stunning. As far as being better than their debut, I don't necessarily think it is. But, it does give it a run for it's money and as a sophomore record it is fantastic. Vampire Weekend are poised for big things. Here are two tracks off their upcoming LP.

Vampire Weekend - White Sky

Vampire Weekend - Cousins

My band you must hear this week is The Rosewood Thieves. They are another group out of New York with a great 60s rock sound often with R&B groove and some honky tonk folk feel to round it off. The lead singer Erick Jordan sounds like a mix between Bob Dylan and John Lennon and brings a dirty gritty sound that blends perfectly with fuzz guitar or the bouncy piano. Not only does he write spectacular songs that have an atmosphere of their own, but he sometimes draws inspiration in some unique and unusual situations. The first EP, "From The Decker House," was recorded during a stay in a shanty town in New York. The second EP, "Lonesome" was then recorded overnight while the band were snowed in in the mountains. If you think about where he was while writing/recording these songs, they make you feel like you are right there in the same room. This is one of the most exciting unknown bands in the country. They need to be in everyone's playlist. I have included two of my favorite originals as well as a kick ass cover of Solomon Burke's "Home In Your Heart." Enjoy!

Rosewood Thieves - Los Angeles

Rosewood Thieves - She Don't Mind The Rain

Rosewood Thieves - Home In Your Heart

That's it for this week. I hope you have been enjoying all the music so far. See you next time.

-Emerson

Slim Pickins

2009-12-30T11:52:00.000-05:00

So this week I don't really have a whole lot to share with you. Not many artists released new music this week, but I did find a few gems.

The first band is an awesome indie-folk group from Portland, Oregon called Blind Pilot. They originally started as a duo of just guitar and percussion touring the West on their bikes and playing small shows. They have now grown to a full 6 piece band. Israel Nebeker, who is the guitarist/singer an amazingly gifted songwriter. His songs are simple but incredibly melodic and beautiful. Sometimes I feel like people overproduce their music and it sounds too cluttered but Blind Pilot really stripped down their music and the effect is perfect. Their album sounds like an intimate concert in a coffee shop. Their release this week is not really new music, it's just a live in studio session with the full band, but it does include a previously unreleased track called "Get It Out" and a cover of Gillian Welch's "Look At Miss Ohio" which is featured in the video below. I also have included my favorite song from their debut album "3 Rounds and a Sound."

Blind Pilot - The Story I Heard

The second band has been part of my library since my brother bought me an EP of theirs while I was in college. John Butler Trio is a great roots rock band from Frematle, West Australia. Their songs often carry messages, either political or moral. They have a very unique sound that encompasses attributes from folk music to reggae to rock to even hip/hop and soul. They have a funky groove that is infectious. They are easily one of the leading groups to come out of Australia. Their latest release is the first single from their upcoming album "April Uprising" titled "One Way Road," which I have included here. The song is a little more on the rock side than usual however their sound seems to be heading in this direction based on their last few albums. I have also included one of my favorite tracks for your listening pleasure.

John Butler Trio - One Way Road

John Butler Trio - Fire In The Sky

My "band you must hear" this week is MuteMath. They are a very forward thinking experimental band who in the process create some gorgeous songs. Hailing from New Orleans, these artists have a very eclectic musical influence. Their music invokes aspects from jazz, blues, funk, electronic, and rock, but the sound they create is all their own. And not only have they created a brand new sound, but they have invented instruments and effects for their shows, and they continue to push the barrier. With Frontman Paul Meany's voice, which sounds like Sting when he was with The Police, a drummer that could be considered virtuosic, and enough creativity and musical talent to fill the Super Dome, this band is one of the most exciting bands in music. Oh and did I mention that they put on one of the most entertaining live performances that you will ever see? Check out these songs which I hope are enough to show the range of talent these guys have.

MuteMath - Armistice (2nd Line Version with Rebirth Brass Band)

MuteMath - Noticed

MuteMath - Lost Year

Hope you enjoyed all the music this week. Tune in next week same bat-time same bat-channel.

-Emerson

The Goods

2009-12-23T02:32:00.002-05:00

Hello all,
It's that time again and let me tell you, I have some great stuff this week. Fist off I just want to inform anyone who liked the Cold War Kids songs last week that their EP "Behave Yourself" is out now (only on itunes) and is fantastic.

So the first group I want to tell you all about is called The Swell Season. Many of you may have heard of them or then again maybe not. They are composed of Glen Hansard (an Irish singer/songwriter) and Marketa Irglova (a Czech pianist) who became widely know for their songs in the movie "Once," which they also starred in, and eventually won the Oscar for their song "Falling Slowly." Now this amazing duo is back with another album and it is incredible. It is a little more produced than previous albums which is both good and bad as I really enjoy the quality of the production but I also liked the raw feel of the songs in "Once." However they do not lose any of the emotion that they put into their songs. Hansard has a knack for writing songs that grab hold of you and allow you to really feel the emotions he felt while writing the song. Take a listen to the first track off their album "Strict Joy." It reminds me of Van Morrison in the days of "Into the Mystic"

The next group I have for you is another hip/hop group called Madcon. They are a Norwegian duo that were hugely popular in Europe. I'm not really sure how big they are in the States yet but they are definitely getting radio play here in Ft. Lauderdale. They sound to me like the product of The Roots, Outkast, and Amy Winehouse's producer all mixed into one with some reggae and Latin vibes here and there. I think they are bound to make it big so keep an eye open for this group. Check out their song "Liar" off their album "Conquest" and prepare to dance around with joy because it is so catchy and good. Also the track starts about 23 seconds in.

The last group I have no idea how I missed, so many of you may already know about them. But, I figured I would do a segment for anyone who hasn't heard them yet because they absolutely rock the house and hard. Them Crooked Vultures is a super group comprised of Dave Grohl from Foo Fighters/Nirvana, Josh Homme from Queens of the Stone Age, and John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin. This album is pretty much exactly what you would expect to come out of sessions with these three at the helm. The song are very dark and heavy with great riffs and haunting vocals. You can hear the sound of all three artists coming out in the music and it makes me want to shout thanks to the gods of rock & roll for this amazing collaboration. Here is the track "Elephants" off their self-titled album; I think it's the best example showcasing the influence that each artist had on this album. Enjoy

Lastly is my "group you must hear," which this week is The Redwalls. This Chicago native band are one of my top 5 favorite bands of all time. The Baren brothers, Logan and Justin, are the core members of the band with Logan on guitar and Justin on bass. They write and sing the songs and have even produced a few. They are greatly influenced by some amazing 60s rock groups including The Beatles, Niel Young, The Kinks, The Stones, Bob Dylan, etc. They have great vocals; which can at times be rough and edgy but then at others be soft and melodic, perfect harmonies, and write some all around wonderful tunes. They are also an amazing live band with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. Although they are still unknown to most, this band could single-handedly keep rock & roll alive so put them on your list of bands to watch. Their sound has evolved a little bit from album to album as all great band's should so I am including three tracks to showcase some different styles. I hope you like them. Also look for some new music from them to be released soon.

Featured Songs: Build a Bridge, Hangman, You'll Never Know

P.S. Here is an early Christmas/Hanukkah/Ramadan/Kwanzaa/Festivus gift to anyone who bought the new John Mayer album and didn't get the itunes pre-order bonus track, like myself. I have been trying to get a hold of this song for weeks. Here's John doing an awesome cover of Bruce Springsteen's "I'm On Fire."

Cheers and have a happy holiday,
Emerson

Numero Uno

2009-12-16T08:26:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody! So here is my first official blog post. I'm not really sure what kind of format I want to use so I'm just gonna wing it and hope it works. I have three bands that I have discovered in recent weeks that I want to share with you.

Harper Blynn is my top release this week. They are a New York City quartet that is formerly known as Pete and J. Their debut album "Loneliest Generation" was recorded in 10 days in NYC with producer David Kahne who has produced for the likes of Paul McCartney and it shows in their sound. They have an epic pop/rock sound that makes one reminisce of the days of Wings. The songs are simple but they are very well written using contrast and wonderful harmonies making this a very enjoyable album. Take a listen to their song "25 years" and I promise you won't just listen once.

Harper Blynn - 25 Years

You can stream the rest of their album for free here: http://www.spinner.com/new-releases#/3

The next group I have to talk about is for those who love intelligent rappers. Blakroc is a collaboration between The Black Keys and 11 hip/hop artists including Mos Def, Raekwon, Q-tip, RZA, and even ODB. In my opinion this album is at the top of the list of Hip/Hop albums released this year. Not only is the rapping incredible but it is set against the bluesy backdrop created by the always amazing Black Keys. This album was recorded in 11 days and features 11 tracks (unless you buy from itunes in which case you don't get the ODB track). You can watch webisodes of the recording process as well as read bios of all the featured artists at www.blakroc.com. The following track features Mos Def and Jim Jones.

Blakroc - Ain't Nothin' Like You (Hoochie Coo)

The last group I want to share with you is from Canada. They are called Zeus and I think they are a really exciting up and coming band. They have a 60s and 70s rock feel to them with upbeat songs that you can't help but sing along with. They use great harmonies and even incorporate some fuzz guitar into a rockin' cover of the Genesis song "That's All." Right now their only release is a 5 song EP titled "Sounds Like Zeus" but be sure to look for their full length LP "Say Us" on Feb 23, 2010. You can also stream a few live in studio performances on their myspace page www.myspace.com/themusicofzeus. In the meantime here is a song from their EP.

Zeus - Marching Through Your Head

Last but not least in my "artist everyone should know" for this week. Last week I played you a song by Cold War Kids. They are an amazing band with a bluesy soulful sound with hints of R&B flavor. They typically write dark lyrics, like many other bands, however the lead singer has a strain and dissonance in his voice that works incredibly well with the tone and mood and makes for great, well put together songs. Their songs paint an incredible picture if you just sit back close your eyes and listen. Here are two songs from Cold War Kids; one from their latest LP "Loyalty to Loyalty" (which you should listen to with your eyes closed) and another from their forthcoming EP "Behave Yourself" due out next week

Cold War Kids - Every Man I Fall For

Cold War Kids - Coffee Spoon

Hopefully everyone found some new music to listen to this week. If not tune in next week because I have a wide range of music that I like and maybe you will find something more suitable to your tastes. I definitely have plenty more to share with you. Until then happy listening.

-Emerson

Starting Out

2009-12-11T01:58:00.001-05:00

Okay everyone, welcome to my new blog! You are obviously here because you have an interest in good music and you think that my taste is music is impeccable; which of course it is, as you will see if you follow my posts. My plan for this blog is to give you just what you are looking for. I plan to share with you any and all music that I find on my daily explorations of the World Wide Web and give you reviews, examples, recommendations, etc. This could include new releases or simply older music that I come upon; but whatever it is I promise it will be good. Essentially I'll be giving you my list of things that I think everyone needs to hear or stay away from in some cases. Hopefully this blog will help you discover someone new or at least give you an idea of what you are buying before you spend the money. I plan on making a post once a week, probably on Wednesdays, unless of course I find something that I need to share right away which may happen often because I get antsy. So thanks for stopping by and make sure you tell everyone you know about me so that we can all share in the glorious wonder that is well crafted music. Oh and check out the song below for a taste of things to come. I'll talk about these guys in my next post.

-Emerson