4/27/12- Huey Lewis and the News- Jacobs Ladder

The MAN, Mr. Cool himself....Huey Lewis. Along with The News, he put out some of the best pop music of the late 80's/early 90's. 

4/26/12- Geggy Tah- Whoever You Are

Oh yeah, I'm going there. Classic

4/25/12- Medeski, Martin & Wood- Whiney Bitches

These guys remind me of my high school days...all of the hours spent getting caught up in a jam. These 3 guys are some of the best musicians out there. If you ever get a chance to see them live, make sure you do

4/24/12- Rufus Wainwright- Out of the Game

Jess was using my computer last night so I picked up the iPad which didnt have any music/spotify/pandora etc on it, but did have NPR which includes First Listen. Normally I probably would have skipped over Rufus- not because I dont like his music, but mostly because he is not usually in the realm of my interests. Because of my lack of other options though I jumped in and gave his new album "Out of the Game" a listen. Lets just say I was immediately impressed. 

He's is definitely not pushing any boundaries or really inventing anything new, but he's simply just making great music. His voice is as strong as ever as he sings so effortlessly with his unique brand/mix of pop and classical styles. His compositions are varied within style as well as instrumentation to which each song feels unique and individual but not so much that the album feels disjointed. I strongly encourage everyone (if you havent given Rufus Wainwright a listen in some time) to give this album at least one run through and I bet you will go back and give it another and another. I surely have. 

4/12/12- Crystal Castles- Untrust Us

Sorry no sweet video today, but a really solid tune. Immediately it makes me envision kicking ass in Double Dragon or slicing my way through Ninja Gaiden. This 8 bit sound should be irresistible for anyone who grew up in the 90's.

4/11-12- Carl Perkins- Matchbox

Taking it back to 1956 with some rockabilly swing. Carl Perkins was one of the best!

4/10/12- Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three- NPR Tiny Desk Concert

I know I have said it time and time again, but I love NPR's Tiny Desk Concert series. They truly bring in some of today's top talent- some big names and other lesser known acts. When looking for something new I often turn to it. This was the case for today's TOTD. I came across Pokey LaFarge and was blown away by his brand of traditional American blues, country and Western swing revival. This looking back to music history seems to really be on the rise in contemporary music and I have to say, thank goodness! Come along with me in experiencing this amazing talent in this 3 song set.

4/9/12-Elder Roma Wilson- Better Get Ready

I was listening to a NPR Music story yesterday about the role of soul and gospel music in shaping music history (link here) and during it the host referenced a collection of rare African American Gospel music called "Fire In My Bones" (its on Spotify if you want to give it a listen). Liking what I heard in the story I definitely had to check out the collection and upon doing so I came across this killer tune. I had heard it before though on G. Love's recent album "Fixin' To Die". I like the tuned on his album, but thought it was an original, turns out its a cover of this 1926 foot tapper!

4/6/12- Dan Deacon- Woof Woof

I've been absent a few days but just recently was turned on to this guy. Crazy compositional skills, understanding of electronics, and pushing the boundaries of possibilities in the recording studio. Give his album Bromst a full listen with quality headphones, it is so dense with layers. Also if you like what you hear watch the 4-part Pitchfork "In The Studio" session with him on the recording of Bromst- especially part 2 with the player piano. Simply amazing.