Released in 2007 Second Chance, from Liam Finn’s long player I’ll Be Lightning, highlights the talented offspring of Crowded House front man, Neil Finn. Though five years old, this track still sounds very fresh and new today. Liam Finn is well known in New Zealand as the leader of the band Betchadupa. Liam tours sporadically and continues to make top-notch pop music, most recently 2011’s FOMO. You can find more information on Liam Finn by visiting his web site, which is basically just a…
Read MoreJust the right touch of pop and folk is Said the Whale and We Are 1980. The halting rhythm feels so right, and so retro. When the full band chimes in on the chorus “We are 1980” the sound is full and fun. You can find more information on Said the Whale including CD, Vinyl and Digital Download purchase options, by visiting their web site. They’ve also a MySpace page, so check them out and feel the retro love! (Source: https://www.youtube.com/)
Read MoreThere is a certain purity that can be found in a good bluegrass band, and like blues music, the best performances are often those that are performed live. These bands capture a ‘living in the moment’ feel. Here, Spring Creek performs an original tune, See Me On in a performance in Anchorage, Alaska in 2011. The band trades licks with the mandolin and fiddle, while the vocal pounds on. I’m a sucker for a well-played upright bass too. You…
Read MoreOregon folk-pop aficionado, Laura Gibson, sings heartfelt songs with a hiccup-like delivery that draws attention to her voice (not unpleasing), the music, and the lyrics. It’s a delivery that sells well. Case in point is the title track of her January 2012 full-length, La Grande. Laura’s voice sweeps and sways in broad strokes, leaving you haunted and singing along. Laura’s extensive website may keep you reading awhile. It includes a complete commentary on La Grande, photos, discography and social links (MySpace,…
Read MoreI’ve always had a special place in my heart for true vocal excellence. Acapella music can be an extremely interesting musical art form, like this remake of I Love You For Sentimental Reasons from acapella hipsters Street Corner Renaissance. It takes a special breed of musical talent to reproduce instruments, rhythm section and vocal harmonies with only your voice. Street Corner Renaissance does this seemingly effortlessly. The band has a web site however as of this writing,…
Read More