Stereo, Jon Nicholson (from the album A Lil Sump’m Sump’m)
“I used to listen to Al Green and the Faces, Cheap Trick and the Replacements, now I’m sitting in my basement, singing to myself.” Check out the video on Jon’s mySpace page.
The Demon of White Sadness, Marah (from the album If You Didn’t Laugh, You’d Cry)
Good-time rock and roll from the boys from Philly (since relocated to Brooklyn). Their albums are just a teaser for their incendiary live shows.
Thin Blue Flame, Josh Ritter (from the forthcoming album The Animal Years)
An epic and moving folk song from a young songwriter with a great future. Check out his web site for the marquee promotion of which every artist dreams. While you’re there, you can download this beautiful song.
Washed by the Water, Will Hoge
Posted on his web site shortly after the Katrina tragedy, Hoge captures the moment with this uplifting, gospel-tinged melody.
God and Money, Ike Reilly Assassination (from the album Junkie Faithful)
A melancholy reflection on life from the enigmatic Reilly.
American Life in the Summertime, Francis Dunnery (from the album One Night In Sauchiehall Street)
Found a 1997 acoustic live album by Dunnery while in London recently. Besides being a great songwriter, Dunnery is a phenomenal guitarist which he clearly demonstrates on this track.
My Name is Love, Rob Dickinson (from the album Fresh Wine for the Horses)
Soaring new single from the former Catherine Wheel singer-songwriter. It lacks the wash of guitars that was a CW hallmark, but the songwriting is immediately recognizable.
Something You Got, Eli “Paperboy” Reed (from the album Sings “Walkin’ and Talkin’ (For My Baby)” and Other Smash Hits!)
Classic Stax rhythm & blues, not what one would expect from a 20-something Jewish kid from Brookline.
Burn, Charlie Sexton (from the album Cruel and Gentle Things)
Another strong track from Sexton’s latest, featuring a great acoustic groove. “The summer’s lost, the leaves have turned, the sun’s moved on, I still burn for you.”
Stumblin’, Powderfinger (from the album These Days (live))
Another find from my recent London trip was a double live album from Powderfinger. These Aussie rockers fall somewhere between the Cult and INXS. (No, not the new INXS.)
Wait for the Wheels, Goldrush (from the album Ozona)
Surprising new release from the English band known previously for moody ballads. Their new album finds them channeling the Byrds and Neil Young — not a bad thing.
How a Resurrection Really Feels, The Hold Steady (from the album Separation Sunday)
This album is addicting! Great classic rock and roll riffs accompanying lead singer Craig Finn’s stream of conscience lyrics.
Panther Dash, The Go! Team (from the album Thunder, Lightnin, Strike)
A buzz band from this year’s SXSW, the Go! Team finally release their US debut. An eclectic mix of instruments over driving dance beats. Light on vocals, heavy on groove.
Chris Mills is Living the Dream, Chris Mills (from the album The Wall to Wall Sessions)
Call it pop classicism. Recorded with a small orchestra, the song-writing is reminiscent of the Brill Building sound.
New Orleans, Cowboy Mouth (from the 1996 album Are You With Me?)
“Take me back to New Orleans”
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.