Top 20 Artists/Bands of 2012 (+30 more)

Here are my Top 20 artists/bands of 2012 (plus another 30 in no particular order because they deserve some love too). This is all based on my personal tastes (or lack thereof…depends on how one looks at it I suppose). To make the list the artist/band had to have released an LP or an EP in 2012.

1. Kellie Pickler – This was pretty much a no-brainer for me. 100 Proof is one of the most “country” records made this year by a popular musician, which is of course why country radio shunned it and her record label dropped her. Totally makes sense.



2. Tristan Prettyman – Tristan’s the reason Kellie was a “pretty much a no-brainer at No. 1.” I got to see her twice this year and she put out one of the finest break-up albums ever (which y’all know I’m a sucker for).

3. Grace Potter & the Nocturnals – Two years ago Grace Potter & the Nocturnals were my No. 1. This year, they clock in at No. 3. No shame in that.

4. Kat Parsons – Stunning indie pop. This is the music to brighten up any day.

5. The Lumineers – Last year my “new” obsession was Civil Wars and Secret Sisters. This year it’s The Lumineers.

6. Taylor Swift – Country’s biggest superstar puts out the most uncountry record possible and country radio squirms to find a track to fit their format.

7. Japandroids – This band simply rocked my 2012.

8. Gaslight Anthem – I’m in my late 30s so I’m supposed to like this band, right?

9. Green Day – Never really found out what Billy Joe Armstrong went into rehab for after the iHeartRadio concert freakout. If I had to guess it would be for thinking he was Bob Pollard. Seriously, three albums in one year?

10. Lindi Ortega – Lindi’s becoming one of my favorite go to artists.

11. Kelly Clarkson – The original American Idol put out one of the finest pop albums of the year.

12. Soul Asylum – Twenty years after seeing Soul Asylum for the first time I got to see them again (actually twice). Those old songs still sound so sweet and the new ones simply ROCK.

13. Little Big Town – A lot of people are saying Tornado is their best record. I’m not quite there yet (loved The Reason Why) but it is filled with some fantastic tunes and always awesome harmonies.

14. Lucero – Been one of my favorite bands since I first heard their cover of Jawbreaker’s Kiss the Bottle.

15. ZZ Ward – Biggest regret of the year was not seeing her perform a mile and a half away from my house.

16. Madi Diaz - I'm simply mad for Madi (I'm sure I'm the only person who's ever said that).

17. Dinosaur Jr. - It's like 1990 all over again. But greyer.

18. Tift Merritt - Something tells me I'm going to wish this was in my Top 5 when I revisit this list next year.

19. Bob Mould - Bob rediscovers the rock.

20. Rhonda Vincent - Rhonda always brings the bluegrass goodness.

And now here’s 30 other artists that got me grooving this year (in no particular order).

Eden’s Edge
Adrienne Pierce
The Spring Standards
First Aid Kit
Elizabeth Cook
Kenny Chesney
Amanda Palmer
Avett Brothers
Beach House
Carrie Underwood
Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson
Dierks Bentley
Jana Kramer
Justin Townes Earle
Lana Del Rey
Lee Brice
Lori McKenna
Meiko
Mindy Smith
Off!
Pink
Jessie Baylin
Sixpence None the Richer
Trampled By Turtles
Of Monsters and Men
Delta Spirit
Hank III
Ellie Goulding
Coheed and Cambria
Every Time I Die

Grace Potter & the Nocturnals - Never Go Back

Grace Potter & the Nocturnals topped my best artist/band of 2010 list. Where will they up on this year's list? I guess we'll find out on Monday.

Your New Favorite Song Artist Spotlight - Jeff Scott Stevens

Welcome to the third Your New Favorite Song Artist Spotlight. Today, let's meet country music songwriter and reality singing contest show savant Jeff Scott Stevens. I've been chatting on and off with Jeff for months on Twitter. Most of the conversation revolves around what's happening on The Voice or one of the dozens of country music award shows that the networks bombard us fans with every other week or so. His genuinely good guy demeanor can only be attributed to living in one of the snowiest parts of the country, Syracuse, NY (incidentally, 90 miles east of my almost as equally snowy hometown of Rochester, NY). I'd like to thank Jeff for taking the time to answer some not so brilliant questions (NOTE: new not so brilliant questions coming soon).  

Bio

Jeff Scott Stevens is an aspiring country music songwriter from Syracuse, NY. He started playing piano/keyboards in high school and has since learned guitar, bass, and drums. Jeff’s written everything from pop/rock music, to local TV themes, and even scored music for a low-budget pilot that a friend was pitching. For the last four years he has been writing and producing country songs (many of which are available on iTunes). His latest single “When the Rest of the World Ain’t Right” was released this fall.

The Interview: 

Your New Favorite Song: It’s time to get the party started, what are you asking the bartender to make for you?

Jeff Scott Stevens: Jägermeister if the party is to get kickin’. Preferably from one of those cool upside-down shot things they have in bars.

YNFS: As we close in on 2012 what are five albums released this year that you can’t get enough of?

JSS: This is a tough one. I often buy singles rather than entire CDs for variety's sake. Latest singles throughout the year from Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Lady Antebellum etc...

YNFS: OK, And now what are the five albums you can’t get enough of that aren’t cool to admit to liking (I know how these lists work, I do the same thing)? EDITOR'S NOTE 1: I ask these questions via email so this question makes little sense due his previous answer, but I like Jeff's answer so I kept it...incidentally, I can relate to Jeff here as I downloaded every song from the Nashville Soundtrack (and even the ones that weren't on it).

JSS: I'm never ashamed of anything in my collection! However, I guess the things I'd get the most flack for at this point are the several singles I bought from the "Smash" TV Show Soundtrack. But again, I'm not ashamed one bit. The writing on those songs, the arrangements, and the vocals are extremely well done.

YNFS: When you were in high school and locked yourself in your room what five bands were you digging on the most?

JSS: Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, Ozzy Osbourne, AC/DC

YNFS: It’s the 1800s, whose novel do you wait in line for before its midnight release?

JSS: I think Barnes and Noble had a pre-sale for the latest Twain, so I'm waitin’ in that line!

YNFS: Cats or Dogs?

JSS: Dogs, because they're intelligent enough to realize that they need to do their business outside instead of taking care of things indoors.

YNFS: Who’s the most famous musician/artist/actor you’ve ever had the pleasure to meet? Paint the picture. What happened?

JSS: As boring as this is. I've never met anybody famous. The closest I can remember was being held up in traffic on a highway because the President was traveling and his motorcade went right by me. LOL. Does that count? EDITOR'S NOTE 2: I’ll allow it, even though I used to live in DC and that annoyance happened to me on a semi-regular basis during the GWB years.

YNFS: What’s your favorite word?

JSS: Does James Lipton know you are stealing this question LOL? Hmm, probably creativity. EDITOR'S NOTE 3 that "hack" Lipton doesn't need to know about this...

YNFS: I know you're a Voice fan, who's been your most favorite five over the first three seasons?

JSS: Javier Colon. I knew from the blind auditions that he would win in season one. I feel that Chris Mann (Season 2) technically has the best voice of anyone in all seasons. Was sorry to see Amanda Brown (Season 3) go. I thought she had some of the best vocals this year. She just had some odd song choices. Terry McDermott (Season 3 runner-up). I would just like to see him take over as the lead singer of Foreigner (even though the guy they've got currently is doing a great job) instead of embarking on his own career. Jordis Unga (Season 2), because I liked her from Rock Star: INXS. EDITOR'S NOTE 4: Notice how I called him a savant in the intro...C'Mon, he remembered Jordis from Rock Star INXS...I think that says it all.

YNFS: Finally, if you could say one thing to potential and current fans about your music what would it be? Sell us on your awesomeness!

JSS: Just enjoy the music. Give everything a listen. I think there's a good variety of tempos and themes for everyone to find something they like. So go check out the previews on iTunes or Amazon or Android (Google Play) and grab an earful!

The Music

Here's a preview of some of his songs (Jeff wanted to upload his latest single on YouTube but it was not cooperating)...it takes a few seconds to start.



You can connect with Jeff on Twitter, Facebook and most importantly on iTunes

And when you're done checking out Jeff and his music, why not take a peek at the previous two Your New Favorite Song Artist Spotlights on Brett Gleason and Jana Fisher

Beach House - Lazuli

I didn't have to go too far from home for today's video. Just 31 miles northeast to be exact. Here's Baltimore dream poppers Beach House with a video from their sublime Bloom record.

Tennis - My Better Self

Here's some dreamy indie-pop from Denver's Tennis. I won tickets to see them play a private afternoon concert this spring. It was a fantastic show, but I have to say that after seeing this video I feel cheated that they didn't bust out those righteous dance moves that day.

Anti-Flag - This is the New Sound

I haven't been posting too many punk or metal videos since "the change" in November when I stopped looking at the past and moved into the present (and sometimes future). To be honest, most of my musical attention has been elsewhere (mainly country music with healthy doses of indie, indie pop and folk mixed in). But I still loves me some anthemic punk rock. Pittsburgh's Anti-Flag always delivers thought-provoking songs about human rights injustices (among other politically charged topics). And in this video they do so with some badass muppets.

Your New Favorite Artist Spotlight - Jana Fisher

Jana Fisher - Photo by Samantha Verdure

Welcome to another Your New Favorite Artist Spotlight. Today, let's get to know piano playing singer/songwriter Jana Fisher. Jana and I started chatting on Twitter a couple summers ago after I downloaded her introspective debut record A History of Sleepwalking. Since those initial tweets of me praising her wonderful voice and piano playing, I've found her to be a very thoughtful person with a great sense of humor and even better taste in music. I'd like to thank her for taking the to time answer the same "not so deep" questions I posed to her friend Brett Gleason last week.

BIO (ripped from janafisher.com) 

The children of ministers are known to fall into two categories: the angels and the troublemakers. Jana Fisher is a good girl everywhere but the piano. "Music is my rebellion," she says. "At least it's better than setting things on fire and getting arrested."

Jana's music career began with performing at churches and corn festivals in rural Ohio, ministering by singing other people's music. When the family business uprooted her Florida, she self-medicated by confessing her teenage angst to the piano. While scrambling to finish college and escape the Sunshine State, Jana wrote, produced, recorded, and self-released her first album, A History of Sleepwalking, just in time to pack up the family car and be uprooted again— this time by choice, to complete her evolution from naive choir girl to self-aware and articulate artist in New York City.

In October 2012, Jana released her first EP since the transformation. Ideals & Deals is an intimate yet lively set of tracks constructed around piano, guitar, and light percussion, recorded over three hot summer days in Brooklyn.

The songs traverse diverse emotional landscapes in pinpointed detail. From obsessing over the "30k" that makes or breaks a big city transplant, to purposely undermining a relationship in "You Deserve Better," to recording new open-hearted love for a woman in "If I Ever Break Your Heart"— all three spin tales of what we'll do for our ideals, the shocking compromises of survival and the rewards reaped from a life richly lived.

Photo by William Murray

The Interview

Your New Favorite Song: It’s time to get the party started, what are you asking the bartender to make for you?

Jana Fisher: A nice and sour gin gimlet. Apparently I'm an old man.

YNFS: As we close in on 2012 what are five albums released this year that you can’t get enough of?

JF: Fiona Apple - The Idler Wheel

Sharon Van Etten - Tramp

Ellie Goulding - Halcyon

The Weeknd - Trilogy

St. Vincent & David Byrne - Love This Giant

YNFS: OK, And now what are the five albums you can’t get enough of that aren’t cool to admit to liking (I know how these lists work, I do the same thing)?

JF: Wow... I'm oddly lacking in guilty pleasures this year! I'm usually all about Lady Gaga and some silly Top 40 hip hop but nothing that's come out this year. These are five more albums I've been enjoying that are just a little less cool than the first five. 

LP - Into The Wild

Sleigh Bells - Reign of Terror

Amanda Palmer & The Grand Theft Orchestra - Theatre Is Evil

Missy Higgins - The Ol' Razzle Dazzle

Mumford & Sons - Babel

YNFS: When you were in high school and locked yourself in your room what 5 bands were you digging on the most?

JF: I listened almost exclusively to Christian radio until about 8th grade. When I "discovered" mainstream music, I was greedy for anything I perceived as "dark" — really any music that expressed emotions other than unwavering positivity! The bands I liked seem a little random now, but each of them represents a unique mood that I was hungry for at the time.

Vanessa Carlton - Embarrassingly, she inspired me to starting writing songs on piano.  

Evanescence - My first boyfriend got my attention by playing "Bring Me To Life" at a church camp piano.

System of a Down - I thought I was so hardcore for liking them! 

Thrice - I loved their album The Artist in the Ambulance. 

Brand New - I wasn't very assertive back then, so I lived vicariously through their biting wordplay.

YNFS: It’s the 1800s, whose novel do you wait in line for before its midnight release?

JF: Alexandre Dumas (père). I love me some good, complicated action/adventure stories! And in my 1800s reality I'd have more time to work on my French and I'd be nearly bilingual instead of having to look up all the descriptive words in the dictionary.

YNFS: Cats or Dogs?

JF: Cats! I prefer my companions to have lives outside of me. (Though I have met some great dogs with very nonchalant cat-like personalities!) There's nothing so relaxing as reading with a cat asleep in your lap.

YNFS: Who’s the most famous musician/artist/actor you’ve ever had the pleasure to meet? Paint the picture. What happened?

JF: I met Portia de Rossi at a book signing and q+a for her memoir Unbearable Lightness. It was refreshing to see a celebrity who normally seems so composed being honest about a very personal topic. She's also quite lovely in person, though she was wearing a lot of makeup.

YNFS: What’s your favorite word?

JF: Adventure… I love how its meaning has changed in my life over time, starting as wandering off in the woods by myself when I was a kid to now living an authentic and fearless life. 

YNFS: What's the most embarrassing thing that's happened to you while performing that you can laugh about now?

JF: I had a really inappropriate gig once at a pirate-themed frat bar. People were literally playing beer pong while I played heartfelt piano music. At least at the end I got some drunk people to sing along to "You Deserve Better."

YNFS: Finally, If you could say one thing to potential and current fans about your music what would it be? Sell us on your awesomeness!

JF: When I'm feeling something that I feel is particularly well expressed in a song, I'll listen to it over and over until I process what I'm feeling. If I don't find a song that works, I write one! I hope everyone will find a song they relate to.

If you liked that video you can check out and download the entire 3-song Ideals & Deals EP at her website. You can and should also follow her on Twitter and on Facebook.

 


 

Kat Parsons - Love Changes Everything

Kat Parsons and Me

I "met" indie pop songstress Kat Parsons this summer on Twitter. We chatted occasionally. I bought her records. She signed them for me. I framed the covers and sent her pictures. We laughed. We cried. We talked cat magnets. Hell, I even wrote a stunning 5-star iTunes review for her latest EP -- Oh! (well, it's as stunning as any 3-6 sentence review can be).

But as you can see from the photo on your left, I really got to meet her last night after a wonderfully fun and frisky performance (by her, not me). It was nice to freely converse with her and not have to worry about keeping it under 140 characters (although come to think of it we did tweet each other a couple hours after the fact). Twitter addiction...it's a real thing.

Sing it Kat (photo by Lauren Colvin)

I warned her that I was going to post her latest video on my new music blog (and to also not expect anything too deep...I'm pretty sure I'm delivering on that promise). She suggested that maybe y'all would want a copy of the song for your very own to snuggle up with (I'm paraphrasing). I thought that was a wonderful idea, so go to Kat's website, give her your name, email and zip code and you can get yourself a copy of the single to take care of and love. AND THEN when you fall head over heels for the song, to the point where you can't stop dancing around and singing it, go back to that website and pick up her fantastic Oh! and Talk To Me EPs. But first thing's first, check out the delightfully playful video for Love Changes Everything! Oh yeah, give her a follow on Twitter as well -- @KatParsonsSings

Lana Del Rey - Bel Air

I have to admit, the first time I heard Lana Del Rey's single Video Games I was not too impressed. Nonetheless, I decided to give the whole Born to Die record a shot anyway. I'm glad I did. Turned out to be one of my favorite records of the year (and yes, I finally "got" how awesome Video Games is). In November, Lana released an 8-song EP titled Paradise. Here's a video off that record.

Of Monsters and Men - Little Talks

My Head is an Animal by Iceland's Of Monsters and Men came out in their home country in 2011. BUT, it was released this year in the States and in the rest of Europe so it counts for my best of 2012 consideration. My list...my rules. Regardless, what we have here is some very catchy indie pop goodness that keeps your toes a tappin'.

Lindi Ortega - Cigarettes & Truckstops

One lucky day last year I picked up Lindi Ortega's Little Red Boots record. What I discovered that day was an incredibly talented songwriter with old-school country sensibilities. And that voice...Wow! Totally makes me melt.

In October she released her latest album Cigarettes & Truckstops which will definitely find its way onto my best of 2012 list. Here's the video for the sublime title track.

P!nk - Try

Today's song off P!nk's exceptional The Truth About Love record socked me me over the head the first time I heard it. Such an fiery song that perfectly fits her voice. Needless to say when I saw this video I was completely blown away by its intensity.



And somehow she took it a step further when she recreated the video at the American Music Awards. It might be the coolest performance I've ever seen at an awards show. Check it out.

Your New Favorite Song Artist Spotlight - Brett Gleason

Welcome to the first of hopefully many Your New Favorite Song Artist Spotlights. If you are a singer/songwriter or are in a band and would like to take part in one of these spotlights, PLEASE hit me up on Twitter (@sneezeguard). Makes my job a lot easier.

(photo courtesy of Brett Gleason)

I was first acquainted with Brett Gleason and his music a couple months ago via Twitter. And despite him recently acknowledging to me that "Adore" is his favorite Smashing Pumpkins album I still haven't unfollowed him (everyone "knows" the answer is "Gish" or "Siamese Dream"). I'd like to thank Brett for agreeing to be the first Your New Favorite Song Artist Spotlight and for taking the time to thoughtfully answer some not so very deep questions provided by yours truly.

BIO (ripped off from www.brettgleason.com)

Combining the intimacy of a piano based singer-songwriter with dark electronics and jazz harmonics: Brett Gleason's music has been called "revolutionary" and garnered comparisons to diverse artists like Trent Reznor, Tori Amos and Depeche Mode.

From Brooklyn, NY by way of Long Island, Brett Gleason's early life was hampered by a severe speech impediment, leading to a solitary childhood immersed in the arts. His struggle to communicate led to a mastery of multiple instruments and a fiction degree from the New School University in NYC. Both an out gay artist and bi-polar sufferer, Gleason knows what it's like to live a life of intensity outside the mainstream and his music reflects this.

Brett debuted "The Dissonance" in early 2010 with the "I Am Not" video climbing to the top of MTV Logo’s The Click List for 20 weeks.

Created with a vow to play all instruments and self-produce every detail, his latest record, "The Thawing" is an operatic set of new tracks both aggressive and vulnerable, abrasive yet beautiful With an emphasis on a classical piano background and the addition of strings, this sophisticated sophomore effort is a seamless development of Brett’s unique, layered sound.

(photo courtesy of Brett Gleason)

The Interview

Your New Favorite Song: It’s time to get the party started, what are you asking the bartender to make for you?

Brett Gleason: Is coffee not an option? Alcohol gives me migraines so it's either water or soda, I wish American bars offered more juices, coffee/teas and food but failing that it's root beer, failing that Diet Coke. I know it's bad for me but I crave the chemicals.


YNFS: As we close in on 2012 what are five albums released this year that you can’t get enough of?

BG: Five is a lot! I'm more a creator than a consumer but definitely fell in love with Fiona Apple's "The Idler Wheel," Smashing Pumpkins "Oceania," Amanda Palmer's "Theatre is Evil" and Cat Power's "Sun."'

YNFS: OK, And now what are the five albums that you can’t get enough of that aren’t cool to admit to liking (I know how these lists work, I do the same thing)?

BG: I'm a real stickler and only like very serious music but have to admit that at Thanksgiving my sister got me hooked on Robyn - I can't help it, the stuff makes you move, "Dancing on my Own" is my jam.

YNFS: When you were in high school and locked yourself in your room what five bands were you digging on the most?

BG: THE SMASHING PUMPKINS - big time, I still worship at their alter, especially their quieter/electro stuff. Was also really into Radiohead as well as NIN, Tool and Bright Eyes, still am.

YNFS: It’s the 1800s, whose novel do you wait in line for before its midnight release?

BG: If we can make it the early 1900's it's Virginia Woolf and Aldous Huxley. Her self reflexive style is like a drug and his mixture of philosophical and science fiction is genius, literally. I guess in the 1800's I would've loved Henry James but I like him more as an historical figure and less as an actual author.

YNFS: Cats or Dogs?

BG: I can't emphasize enough how much I love dogs, they make me so happy, just the thought of a fun dog to roll around on the floor with makes me so happy.

YNFS: Who’s the most famous musician/artist/actor you’ve ever had the pleasure to meet? Paint the picture. What happened?

BG: I tend to meet really famous people that mean nothing to me, often not realizing their fame until afterwards. I guess the main one that I really cared about was Dave Gahan, lead singer of Depeche Mode. I used to teach his daughter and despite his detached manner I decided to give him a CD of some of my music, I'm sure it ended up in the trash because surely he would've loved it had he given it a chance?

YNFS: What’s your favorite word?

BG: I love curse words, the more offensive the better, I just love how offended we can all pretend to get at a sound, a movement of the lips. I never use them in my music and rarely in real life but when I do it's effective.

YNFS: What was your most embarrassing moment on stage? What happened and how did you handle it?

BG: My first gig was fairly disastrous. I was performing a song at a convention center as part of a larger event and had to go karaoke style due to time restraints. I hadn't thought through what I'd do during the instrumental passages and just stood there awkwardly clutching the mic. I eventually did a back flip during one of the solos out of desperation which just confused the audience. I promised myself then I'd never perform without an instrument in my hand, had to do a similar event recently and even though I couldn't plug it in I strummed an acoustic guitar as if my life depended on it, unheard by the audience.

YNFS: Finally, If you could say one thing to potential and current fans about your music what would it be? Sell us on your awesomeness!

BG: My music's not for everyone but if you're one of the few I'm speaking to it's gonna change your life so you better listen to find out.




As expected Brett's pretty much all over the internet so click on some of those links below and get to know him a bit more.

Homepage
Facebook
Twitter
iTunes
Bandcamp
Tumblr

First Aid Kit - Emmylou

This summer, my much younger (and smarter) cousin and I swapped a bunch of music. One of my favorite bands that she introduced me to was Sweden's First Aid Kid. The band is comprised of two sisters playing some of the finest indie folk that has ever graced my ears. Here's the second single off their fantastic album The Lion's Roar.

Delta Spirit - California

Amazon MP3 put up some fun year-end lists yesterday. Their staff placed California, Delta Spirit's "Rock and Roll heartbreaker" (their words, not mine...although apt) at No. 1 on their top 100 songs list. As for the list based on Customer purchases...yeah, that would be Call Me Maybe (no shock there...it was in the top 20 staff picks as well). California didn't even rank on the sales list. Go figure.

Japandroids - The House That Heaven Built

Before their Celebration Rock album came out in June, Japandroids were a band that I had heard of, but had not actually heard. Curiosity got the best of me this summer after reading rave reviews from fans and bands alike. So of course I had to pick it up (it also helped that it was a daily $3.99 deal on AmazonMP3). These guys blew me away with their killer mix of indie ROCK (not indie), punk and garage. I've already seen Japandroids turn up on quite a few 2012 year end lists and you can be certain they will be on mine.

Joanna Smith - We Can't Be Friends

I was driving around town a couple months ago when I first heard Joanna Smith's We Can't Be Friends playing on the radio. By the second verse I was so distracted I almost plowed my truck into a Prius that was stopped at a red light. Almost. When I got home from that harrowing driving experience (to be honest, most are when I'm behind the wheel) I found that her fantastic 4-song EP Be What It Wants To Be was released that day. Here's the song that nearly wrecked me. Literally.

ZZ Ward - Put the Gun Down

I just picked up ZZ Ward's smokin' hot debut album Til The Casket Drops. Believe the hype. She is the real deal and I suspect her record is going to be on a ton of Best of 2012 lists. Check out the video for one of my favorite songs on the record.

Beth Orton - Magpie

Over the years I've had the good fortune of seeing Beth Orton perform three times. The first time she was opening for Beck on his insane Midnight Vultures tour (if you saw it, you know what I mean). Almost 10 years later I got to see her play on a side stage at Lilith. Cool to experience, but it was just a short 30 minute set. A couple months later though I finally got to see her headline a show. Even better, it was at my town's under 300 seat venue and I had a front row table. It was an awesome concert experience (that of course included meeting her after the show).

Needless to say, I was pretty stoked earlier this year when I heard that she was working on some new material. Sugaring Season came out in October and I'm pleased to say it's some of her finest work to date. Here's the first video off it.

Dinosaur Jr. - Watch the Corners

It's kind of nice writing about Dinosaur Jr. without mentioning...well, you know what (and if you don't, look it up). Since the original line-up reunited in 2005 they've released three Dino rockin' records that makes this old fan one happy dude. Here's the video for the first single off of their latest, I Bet On Sky.

The Lumineers - Ho Hey

As we edge closer to the end of 2012 I think I'll dedicate a couple posts a week to my favorite songs of the year. Think of it as a preview to the big Top 30 of 2012 list coming on New Year's Eve.

I've always fallen for sad songs that sound so joyous. So let's get the best of party started with this wonderful song/video by The Lumineers. Check it out.

The Avett Brothers - Live and Die

I finally picked up The Carpenter last week. The record doesn't stray too far from The Avett's previous albums and I for one am MORE than fine with that. Why mess with success? Right?

Anyway, this video's been out since the summer which makes it just new enough for Your New Favorite Song. Check it out.



If you dug that tune and haven't picked up The Carpenter, I strongly suggest heading over to the AmazonMP3 store...it's cheaper than a microbrew in a bar.

Ellie Goulding - Figure 8

I was talking to a friend this weekend over some drinks (OK, I was drinking, he was serving them up). As usual, the topic of music came up. At one point he said to me (and I'm paraphrasing), "You know who I've been actually getting into lately? Ellie Goulding. She's like Bjork, but you can understand what she's singing." I have to say I liked that observation. While her first record, 2010's Lights was electropop at its finest, her latest Halcyon definitely has a darker, more mysterious sound. Kind of like Bjork. But you can understand what she's singing (Thanks K).

Bob Mould - The Descent

A wise dude once said "Bob Mould is good for what ails ya." After all of these years that statement still holds true. Bob's latest album Silver Age ranks among my favorites of 2012 (actually, it also ranks among my favorite Bob/Husker/Sugar records).

Anyway, I think I may need to do some more healing today and listen to Silver Age on my afternoon walk. Oh yeah, just in case you were wondering, I was the wise dude. Hey, there's a first for everything, right?

Kelleigh Bannen - Sorry on the Rocks

Kelleigh Bannen's Sorry on the Rocks has been a favorite of mine since I first heard it on the radio a few months ago. I had the good fortune of seeing her and Dustin Lynch play in a mall parking lot on a sunny afternoon this summer. It was great getting a chance to hear more of her songs and of course meeting her afterwards. Word on the street (OK a simple Google search) is that she'll have a new record out early next year and I for one can't wait to pick it up.

Menomena - Plumage

I went on a bit of an Amazon MP3 bender this weekend. Among my many pre-Black Friday purchases was the latest Menomena record -- Moms. I haven't had a chance to listen to it yet but I'm sure I'll like it despite Pitchfork giving it 8 stars. The video for the album's lead track is certainly interesting. Oh those wacky indie rockers.

Propagandhi - Lotus Gait

I think the only special theme day I'm going to adhere to at Your New Favorite Song is Live Fridays. So let's kick of this first Live Friday with a band I've actually never seen perform live (go figure). Here's progressive thrashers Propagandhi with a track off of their recently released Failed States record (which I have regrettably not picked up yet...but will at some point...soon....I promise).

Cat Power - Cherokee

Cat Power (Chan Marshall) released her 9th full-length record in late August. Having been a fan of hers since 98's Moon Pix, I was looking forward to hearing Sun. I finally picked it up yesterday (yeah, I'm a little behind this year). WOW! From start to finish this is an extraordinary release. She moved into a bold new direction with this one. Lots of big beats and synths, while still retaining her spooky songs and haunting vocals. Here's Sun's first video. It's got a certain hipster Mad Max vibe going on. If you like this song, you'll definitely dig Sun.

Kacey Musgraves - Merry Go 'Round

I can't remember the last time I was so head over heels for a tune. At this point it's pretty safe for me to say that Merry Go 'Round will top my Best of 2012 Singles list. Interesting side-note for those who watch Nashville: Kacey co-wrote Undermine, the song "written" by Deacon and Juliette in the second episode.

Soundgarden - Been Away Too Long

The first song on the brand new Soundgarden record says it all: Been Away Too Long. Soundgarden's last record - Down on the Upside - came out 16 years ago. In the meantime, Chris Cornell put out two decent solo albums and one embarrassingly bad one (Scream), as well as a couple OK records with most of the guys from Rage Against The Machine (Audioslave). But none of that can compare to Soundgarden. While I haven't heard King Animal yet, I did pick it up today for $3.99 at the Amazon MP3 store. I'm not naive enough to think that this album will be a return to 1995 when Soundgarden ruled the rock world. But I have to say that after hearing today's tune, I think it's possible that King Animal will be one of the finer rock records of 2012.

Tristan Prettyman - My Oh My & I Was Gonna Marry You

Your Forgotten Favorite is no more. Say hello to Your New Favorite Song where we celebrate and hopefully discover great new music. Some days we'll focus on bands that are very well known, other days the bands/artists will be known by hundreds of people. Fans and artists alike, keep me in the loop. If it's good I want to hear it. So feel free to tweet me @sneezeguard or drop me a line in the comments area with any cool new suggestions. If I dig it, I'll post it.

Today we start the Your New Favorite Song era with a couple of videos from one of my favorite records of 2012. I had the pleasure to see Tristan Prettyman yesterday afternoon (see photo on the left). It was my second time seeing her this year and first since the release of her hauntingly beautiful and occasionally playful break-up/rebirth album -- Cedar + Gold. First up is the video for the playful My Oh My.



And now here's a song to rip your heart out.

Another new beginning....

I had this well-thought and prepared statement ready to explain why I was sadly putting an end to Your Forgotten Favorite 2000 (formerly Your Forgotten Favorite), but then I had an idea. While it's been fun looking back these last three years (587 posts) at music from the 90s and then the 00s, it just got a little boring to me. I'd rather look at the present and more so to the future.

So I bring you, Your New Favorite Song (as you can tell, naming things is not my strong suit...seriously, I'm surprised my cats aren't named Grey Cat, Orange Cat and Fat Orange Cat). The premise will be pretty much the same as Your Forgotten Favorite (post some words of occasional wisdom/truth and then the video). Most of the acts should be somewhat familiar. But some won't be.

Every so often I'd also like to feature lesser known and unsigned acts (bands on Twitter who follow me take note). The hope here is to spread the word with some interviews and links to download a song or two if available (legally of course, but hopefully for free). I've already talked about this with some artists and they seem into it. If you're in a band or a singer/songwriter and want to be featured drop me a note here or on Twitter (@sneezeguard). This may take some time to implement, but hopefully it will be sooner than later.

So, starting Monday October 29th, the Your New Favorite Song era begins. The schedule will likely be as such:
Mondays: Punk/Hardcore/Metal
Tuesdays: Indie
Wednesday: Pop
Thursday: Country
Fridays are always live

So, come back on Monday (trust me, I'll remind you) for some new music videos and fun. And once we get going, please feel free to retweet on Twitter and share on Facebook. Use the comment section and let me know what you think about the bands, or bands I should feature, or even how awesome I am. Particularly that last one.

Shivaree - I Close My Eyes

I fell pretty hard for Shivaree the first time I heard this song on the radio. Ambrosia Parsley has one of those voices that just makes me melt. I got to see them when they toured for Who's Got Trouble (the album today's song is on)...amazing show. So click on that video below and see how good they are for yourself. Enjoy!

Neurosis - A Sun That Never Sets

So I see Neurosis has a new album coming out on October 30th. I'm definitely down with that. Here's a video from their 2001 album of the same name, while I impatiently wait two weeks for Honor Found in Decay to come out. If you're unfamiliar with their brand of doom metal give it a shot...it starts out slowly but kicks in after a minute or so. Enjoy!

Noisettes - Scratch Your Name

It's FRIDAY FUNDAY!!! Here's a fun tune by British indie rockers the Noisettes to get your weekend started out right. This one's off their damn fine 2007 debut -- "What's The Time Mr. Wolf?". Enjoy!

Lee Ann Womack - Last Call

It's Country Thursday!!! Here's one of my favorite late-night songs. It's off Lee Ann Womack's stunning 2008 album - Call Me Crazy. Enjoy!

Butthole Surfers - The Shame of Life

I'm a Surfer! 

Here's a video from the last Butthole Surfers record, 2001's Weird Revolution. Enjoy!

Coheed and Cambria - Devil In Jersey City

There's a new Coheed and Cambria record out today. I haven't heard it yet, but I'd be shocked if it didn't live up to their previous proggy/hardcore goodness. I'm sure I'll pick it up sooner than later. But for now, let's go back to where it all started with a video from their 2002 debut - The Second Stage Turbine Blade. Enjoy!

fun. - All The Pretty Girls

Hey, it's Friday fun. Day!!! Here's a fun. video from their first album Aim and Ignite. Enjoy!

Eric Church - Smoke a Little Smoke

It's Country Thursday!!! This week we'll go with one of my current favorites - Eric Church. I got to see him a few weeks ago and he was electric. Easily one of the best performances that I've seen this year. Here's a video from 2009's Carolina record. Enjoy!



Oh hell, I know it's from this year, but the Springsteen video is just too good not to post.

Richard Ashcroft - Check The Meaning

Here's a video by former Verve frontman Richard Ashcroft . The song is from his second solo album -- Human Conditions. Enjoy!

Sixpence None The Richer - Breathe Your Name

Excited to be seeing Sixpence None The Richer tonight at our town's happy little concert venue. This will be the third time I've seen them. The first time was in 1994 when they were just an up and coming band from Texas (four years before their breakthrough hit Kiss Me). The last time was in 2002 -- pretty much at their height of their popularity. And now I get to see them 10 years later on the heels of a great new record -- Lost in Transition. But for today, let's go back to 2002's fantastic Divine Discontent record (since that's what we do at YFF). Here's the video for the album's lead track. Enjoy!

Those Darlins - Glass to You & Red Light Love

Oh how I love Those Darlins. A little bit country. A little bit garage rock. And a whole lot of awesome. Here's a couple videos from their 2009 self-titled debut. I suspect you'll know the second song due to its placement in a somewhat recent car commercial. Enjoy!



No sock puppets this next video, but it's still a cartoon!

Sam Roberts - Them Kids

I've seen Sam Roberts play twice in the last few years. The first time was on a two-hour booze cruise. The second time was a 30 minute private concert sponsored by a local radio station (I won tickets...there were about 40 people there). Both shows were very high energy and a ton of fun. Here's a video for a song that always gets me bouncing around the room. Enjoy!

Green Day - Minority & Warning

New Green Day album today! You know Uno is already on my Amazon Cloud and I look forward to hearing it this afternoon. Ever since Dookie came out they've pretty much been one of my favorite bands -- particularly in a live setting (meltdowns at major music festivals be damned...although I have to side with Billy Joe on this one, the iHeart people kind of dicked them over).

Anyway, one of my favorite Green Day albums is 2000's highly-underrated Warning. So here's two videos off that record (Note: the video for Warning is kind of gross, but really funny). Enjoy!

Turbonegro - High On The Crime

It's Punk Rock Monday!!!! Here's Norway's self-proclaimed deathpunks Turbonegro with a video from their Party Animals record. Enjoy!

Atom & His Package - Pumping Iron for Enya and Shopping Spree

IT'S FRIDAY FUNDAY!!!! If you can't have fun listening to Atom & His Package there is no hope for you. This first video is from "their" last show (which I may have to put in the old dvd player tonight).



I had to post this one as well, if anything just for the story behind Shopping Spree. It's a little long, but totally worth it.

The Avett Brothers - Murder In The City

It's Country Thursday!!! Let's take the alt route this week with a fine Avett Brothers tune off of their 2008 EP -- The Second Gleam. Enjoy!

Azure Ray - New Resolution

I was happy to see Azure Ray get back together in 2010. Mind you, I really enjoyed Maria Taylor and Orenda Fink's solo albums after the split. I just think they sound so much better together. While I haven't picked up Azure Ray's latest ep -- As Above So Below -- I'm sure I will soon. And I'm sure I'll dig it. Until then, here's some fine dream-pop goodness from 2003's fantastic Hold on Love record. Enjoy!

Ben Folds - Rockin' The Suburbs

Ben Folds Five is back baby! Today they release The Sound of the Life of the Mind, their first record since 1999's The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner. It certainly won't be long until it's blaring on my speakers.

So while the Five have been away doing their own thing (I saw Darren Jessee's Hotel Lights play, good band) Ben Folds was certainly prolific as a performer and producer. My favorite solo record of his though is the first, Rockin' The Suburbs. And while I could have easily posted the video for the sentimental Still Fighting It, I had to go with the hilarious video for the title track, a song that obviously pokes fun of rap metal bands and their fans. Enjoy!

Motorhead - Brave New World

OK, so what started out to be a one-week break from this here 2000's music video blog went to two weeks (or was it three?). I'd like to say I was busy, but I wasn't. Just highly unmotivated. Pretty sure any post I would have done would've been quarter-assed as opposed to the half-assed posts you've come to expect over the last few years.

So enough excuses, let's get to the Metal as it's Metal Monday (well, sometimes it's Punk Monday...and then there's Hardcore Monday too). When people ask me what was the "loudest show" I've ever seen (heard actually) two concerts come to mind: seeing the Swans in the early 90s and of course, the almighty and never aging MOTORHEAD, who I saw at Washington, DC's famous 9:30 Club in the late 90s. They totally blew the roof off the place and my eardrums too (I couldn't hear for days after that show). Here's a video from their 2002 album - Hammered. Enjoy!

Jamey Johnson - Mowin' Down The Roses

It's Country Thursday. Count Jamey Johnson in as one of the acts I'll be seeing this weekend at the American Music Festival in Virginia Beach. Enjoy!

Elliott Smith - Son of Sam

I miss Elliott Smith, who died at far too young an age. We have his wonderful music though, which I still often listen to. Here's the lead track off of 2000's Figure 8 record. Enjoy!

Elvis Costello - 45

Here's a video from Elvis Costello's When I was Cruel record. Believe it or not, it's one of my favorite albums by him. Enjoy!

Sick Of It All - Take The Night Off

Here's some Sick Of It All to brighten your Monday. Enjoy!

Lenka - Trouble Is A Friend

Me and Lenka

Happy Friday Funday!!! Here's some Lenka to get your weekend started out right. Stay out of trouble. Scratch that. Just don't get caught! Enjoy!

Neko Case - Maybe Sparrow

It's Country Thursday!!! Let's go the alt route today with dang fine video from Neko Case's Fox Confessor Brings The Flood record. Enjoy!

Sparta - Cut Your Ribbon

OK, I'm bringing the rock again today. When At The Drive-In broke up in 2001 two bands formed in its wake. The first one - The Mars Volta - didn't really do too much for me (a little too proggy for my tastes). But Sparta freaking rocked my world. Their first LP - Wiretap Scars - is a post-hardcore classic. Here's a killer track and a pretty intense video from their debut. Enjoy!

The Libertines - Can't Stand Me Now

Shame on me for not posting this video by The Libertines sooner. It's one of my favorite songs of the 2000s. Enjoy!

Dillinger Escape Plan - Setting Fire to Sleeping Giants

Is it Metal Monday? Is it Hardcore Monday? Is it both? Could it be Mathcore Monday? Can I ask any more annoying questions? I'm pretty sure the answer to all of those questions is yes. Dillinger Escape Plan definitely fits into all of those genres and they are indeed awesome. Here's a video from their Miss Machine album to wrap your head around. Enjoy!

Soul Asylum - Stand Up and Be Strong

Soul Asylum has been one of my favorite bands for more than 20 years. I still play And The Horse They Rode In On and Grave Dancers Union whenever I need a boost. While not as high profile as they were in their heyday, they are still going strong. Their new record Delayed Reaction rocks which is a good thing because I'm seeing them play on Saturday at my local under 300 seat venue and then in two weeks in Virginia Beach opening for Cheap Trick (it's actually on the beach too!).

I couldn't find a regular Soul Asylum video from 2000-2009, so here they are on Leno with the first single off their record The Silver Lining. Enjoy!



And when you're done here, go to Totally Covered for another Soul Asylum video.

Lucinda Willaims - Righteously (live)

It's Country Thursday!!! So, let's celebrate with some live Lucinda Williams. Enjoy!

Be Your Own Pet - The Kelly Affair

I really dug Nashville rockers Be Your Own Pet. It's a shame they only put out two records before breaking up in 2008. Here's one of my favorite songs (and a fun video) from their Get Awkward album. Enjoy!

Jem - They & Just a Ride

I was completely obsessed with Jem's debut -- 2004's Finally Woken -- when it came out (and for a couple years after the fact). While I don't listen to it nearly as much anymore, it's still one of my favorite records of the 2000s (a few songs always seem to find their way onto my iPod playlists to this day). I still can't believe that at the height of Finally Woken's popularity she and her band played a free street festival in my town. You know I didn't miss that one!

I couldn't decide which video off Finally Woken to post so here's two of them (and yes, Just a Ride is inspired by Bill Hicks). Enjoy!

Kasey Chambers - Not Pretty Enough

Last night I saw the Brothers of the Sun Tour (Jake Owen, Grace Potter, Tim McGraw and Kenny Chesney) at a packed FedEx Field and had a blast. Tonight I'm seeing the fantastic Kasey Chambers at a small under 300 seat venue. Talk about two concert going extremes. I've never seen Kasey live before, but I'm sure we'll have good time enjoying some great music. Here's a video from her second album Barricades & Brickwalls. Enjoy!

Franz Ferdinand - Take Me Out

It's Friday Funday!!! Here's a Franz Ferdinand video to get your weekend started off right. Enjoy!

Brothers of the Sun Tour

So this Sunday I'm off to FedEx Field (also known as that place where the Redskins lose) for the Brothers of the Sun Tour. I can't even remember the last time I went to a HUGE stadium show, but I figured this would be a great afternoon and night of music. "The Brothers" Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw are obviously headlining (and also doing a set together) and Jake Owen (one of my favorite current country singers) and the always awesome Grace Potter and the Nocturnals will be opening up.

But for today, let's focus on the headliners (I've already featured Grace here anyway). Here's one of my favorite Kenny Chesney tunes. This is from his live DVD Summer in 3D.



Now here's one of my favorite Tim McGraw songs. It's the title track from his 2009 record.

Maritime - Tearing Up The Oxygen

Yeah, as expected, I couldn't come up with any more zombie themed videos so let's forget all that nonsense and check out some cool indie pop instead. Here's Maritime, a damn fine indie pop band featuring members of Promise Ring and Dismemberment Plan. Here's a video from their We, The Vehicles record which came out in 2006. Enjoy!

Rob Zombie - Feel So Numb

Oh hell, let's keep this "Zombie" thing going (yesterday we had this video featuring moshing zombies). Here's a video off Rob Zombie's Sinister Urge record from 2001. Enjoy!

Comeback Kid - Wake The Dead

It's the return of Hardcore Monday. Today we have a killer tune (I suppose the video is as well...literally) by Comeback Kid. Zombie Moshing!!! Enjoy!

Tristan Prettyman - Madly

It's Friday Funday...Time to kick back and get this weekend started right. My weekend should be pretty great as I'll be seeing Tristan Prettyman again on Sunday night! Here's a video from her fantastic Hello...x cd. Enjoy!

Little Big Town - Boondocks

New priorities have popped up, but never fear, I'll still be here, just later some days. Tonight we celebrate an evening edition of COUNTRY THURSDAY!!!!

I've been a pretty big fan of Little Big Town and their sweet four-part harmonies for a few years now. And while I was a bit lukewarm at first to their latest single Pontoon, I have to admit, it's becoming my summer jam (I can't believe I just wrote the phrase "it's becoming my summer jam" about any song). But Pontoon's a new song and you know we only focus on 2000-10 at this here blog (well, we used to be all about the 90s, but that ran it's course...there's still the archives you 90s lovers...relive the magic). So here's one of their biggest songs. Even if you don't like country music, play it all the way through as the last minute of the song is vocally very cool. Enjoy!

Guster - Amsterdam

Feeling a bit poppy today. Here's a fun tune by Guster from their Keep It Together record. Enjoy!

Mindy Smith - Come To Jesus

I already covered Mindy Smith yesterday at Totally Covered (make sure you see that post after you finish up here...thanks) so I really don't have too much more to add. This is the first song I heard by her and it's still among my favorites. Enjoy!

Good Riddance - Yesterday's Headlines

It's Punk Rock Monday!!! Here's a Good Riddance video to kickstart your week. It's from their Symptoms of a Leveling Spirit record. Enjoy!

Kaiser Chiefs - I Predict a Riot

IT'S...FRIDAY...FUNDAY!!!! Let's start the weekend off right. Here's a dang fine and fun track by the Kaiser Chiefs. It's off their first album Employment. Enjoy!

Elizabeth Cook - It Takes Balls To Be A Woman

Me and Elizabeth

It always seems to be feast of famine with me when it comes to concerts. After going a month and a half without seeing anything, I've been to two concerts since last Thursday (Rhett Miller...and then Jason Aldean on Sunday) and I have three more by the end of the month. Not that I'm not complaining though, especially since I know that the next one (tomorrow) will be a blast. Of course I'm talking about the one and (most certainly) only Elizabeth Cook. I saw her live for the first time last summer (hence the photo above). Great music and fantastic storytelling made for one of my favorite shows of the year. And I fully expect more of the same tomorrow (OK, well I do expect to also hear songs off her tremendous new EP Gospel Plow). Anyway, here's the video for the song that initially reeled me in a few years ago. It's off her 2007 album Balls. Enjoy!

Don't be surprised if you see another video by her tomorrow at Totally Covered.

Nine Inch Nails - The Hand That Feeds

I became an instant Nine Inch Nails fan back in high school after hearing Head Like A Hole for the first time. Over the years, I've even been lucky enough to see them play a few times (the last time was in 2009 with Jane's Addiction...talk about a dream show).

Anyway, I'm sure you know today's song, but have you seen this killer video from 2005's With Teeth? Enjoy!

Yellowcard - Ocean Avenue

As far as mainstream pop-punk bands go, I have to say Yellowcard is certainly one of the more intriguing bands out there. I mean, c'mon, how many punk bands have a violin player who plays a prominent role in the band and doesn't sound like a total Pogues rip-off? Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge fan of bands like Flogging Molly and the Dropkicks...I'm just trying to make a point (not sure how valid the point is mind you, but it's certainly a point nonetheless). Anyway, here's the song that first got me into Yellowcard, the title track off their 2003 major label debut. Enjoy!

Probot - Shake Your Blood

Haven't done a Metal Monday in a while...and today's Probot video certainly brings the metal. How could it not? The band, who only made one album, was led by Dave Grohl (on drums) and featured an impressive cast of metal singers including Motorhead's Lemmy Kilmister who is featured in today's video. Enjoy!

Mates of State - Fluke

It's FRIDAY FUNDAY!!!! Let's get the weekend party started off with Lawrence, KS indiepop duo Mates of State. Here's a video from 2003's Team Boo record. Enjoy!

Rhett Miller - Come Around

Me and Rhett in 2010

I'm pretty excited to see Rhett Miller play tonight. At this point I've lost count on how many times I've seen him or the Old 97's play over the past 10 years. It's always a good time and it's always a pleasure to chat with him after the show (if I have the chance) as he's genuinely one of the nicest musicians I've ever met. So until tonight (for me at least), here's a video from his fantastic record The Instigator. Enjoy!

Clare and the Reasons - Pluto

Brooklyn's Clare and the Reasons have a new album out this week and it's pretty cool (as a bonus, it's only $3.99 at AmazonMP3). Here's a video from their debut record The Movie. Enjoy!

Belle and Sebastian - Blues Are Still Blue

I'm surprised that I have yet to post a video by Glasgow's Belle and Sebastian. I always enjoyed their records, but when The Life Pursuit came out in 2006 they became one of my favorites (great, fun live band too...saw them on that tour). Here's one the finer tunes from The Life Pursuit. Enjoy!

Pennywise - Knocked Down

I'm baaaaack...Admit it. You missed me. Just a little bit? Fine. Whatever...

It's kind of hard to believe that I've been listening to Pennywise for almost 20 years. I still haven't heard their latest record (the first with new singer Zoli Téglás from Ignite), but I heard it's really good and it's definitely on my "must buy" list. But that'll have to wait as we take care of the business at hand. Here's a video from 2005's The Fuse. Enjoy!

The B-52's - Funplex

This is most certainly a proper Friday Funday video from the last The B-52's record. Enjoy!

Kellie Pickler - Red High Heels

It's a special Country Thursday today, because it's Kellie Pickler's birthday! Over the last couple of years, this former American Idol contestant has slowly become one of my favorite country singers...so much so, that her latest album, 100 Proof, is an early contender for my album of the year. So let's celebrate Kellie's birthday with one of her finest tunes. And when you're done watching this video, head on over to Wicked Guilty Pleasures for another Kellie Pickler gem. Enjoy!

The Whigs - Right Hand On My Heart

I have nothing brilliant to say today. Just watch this rad video by The Whigs. It's a killer tune from their second album, Mission Control.

Jesca Hoop - Money

I've mentioned this before, but I never really took to the "don't judge a book by its cover" rule. I gleefully judge books (or cds) by their covers. And the results are usually to my liking.

Many times I'll be wandering around a record store (when I can actually find one) looking for something new and interesting and a cover will catch my eye and I have to check it out. Such is how I became a fan of Jesca Hoop. The photo of her on the cover of her debut album Kismet drew me in (the music obviously even more)...and I haven't missed a new release by her since, including her most recent (out today) - The House that Jack Built. Here's one of my favorite songs of Kismet. Enjoy!

Roger Miret and The Disasters - My Riot

It's Punk Rock Monday!!! Let's start the riot with a Roger Miret and The Disasters video from their My Riot record. Enjoy!

Holly Williams - Three Days in Bed

It's Country Thursday! Today we've got a stunning song/video by Hank Sr's granddaughter (Hank Jr's daughter) - Holly Williams. This is one of my favorite songs by her. It's off her fantastic record Here with Me which came out in 2009. Enjoy!

PJ Harvey - This is Love

Sometimes I forget how much I dig PJ Harvey...especially when she rockin'. So here's a cool rockin' video from her Stories from the City, Stories from the Sea record. Enjoy!

Regina Spektor - Us

I first saw today's video by Regina Spektor shortly before her breakthrough album Soviet Kitsch came out. It was on a free dvd video comp that was inserted into a music magazine whose name escapes me at the moment. I must have watched the Us video for an entire hour. Over and over and over. I was mesmerized by it's wonderful beauty (both song and video). I picked up the record as soon as it came out and haven't looked back since. Enjoy!

Strike Anywhere - Infrared

How about a killer Strike Anywhere song/video to start the week off just right? This one's from their amazing Exit English record. Enjoy!

The Bird and the Bee - Again & Again

It's FRIDAY FUNDAY...so put on your dancin' shoes and move it to a great song by The Bird and the Bee. Enjoy!

Jolie Holland - Mexico City

Some Country Thursdays are better than others. This is certainly a better one, as Jolie Holland is one of my favorite country/folk singers. Here's a mighty fine song from 2008's The Living and the Dead album. Enjoy!

Morrissey - Irish Blood, English Heart

So I see there are two bits of good news today regarding legendary Smiths singer Morrissey. I won't get into the whole feud ending with the NME (you can read about it here). But I will comment though on him NOT retiring in two years (which was recently falsely reported): Thank you for not retiring in two years!

So let's celebrate today's news by watching the video for his 2004 comeback single...one of my favorite tunes that year, and the highlight of his You Are The Quarry album. Enjoy!

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals - Ah Mary

I've had June 12th circled on my calendar for a while. You see, today is the release date for a brand spankin' new Grace Potter and the Nocturnals record. I'm pretty psyched to hear it considering their previous record was my No. 1 of 2010. I saw them play a booze cruise with about 100-150 people that summer and had a blast. Hard to believe I'm going to be seeing them this summer at FedEx Field opening for Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw.

Today's song is the lead track on 2007's This Is Somewhere record. I couldn't find any videos for their pre-2010 records (I'm guessing they didn't make any), so we'll have to go with this live performance from Leno. Enjoy!

The Lawrence Arms - The Devil's Takin' Names

PUNK ROCK MONDAY!!!!

Let's get this week started with one of my favorite punk bands - The Lawrence Arms. Here's a video from their last record Oh! Calcutta! which came out six years ago (I think it's time for a new full-length fellas). Enjoy!

New Order - 60 Miles An Hour

It's FRIDAY FUNDAY!!! And today's video is certainly fun.

New Order always made quirky, sometimes strange videos, but I think this video from their Get Ready album wins the prize for the strangest. To be honest, I can't even confirm if it's an "official" video or not, but I have every reason to believe it is. Enjoy!

Tift Merritt - Virginia, No One Can Warn You

I've been lucky enough to see Tift Merritt play my town's under 300-seat venue three times over the last seven years. It's always a fantastic performance and a pleasure to chat with her after the show. The photo above was actually taken two years ago today - that'd be me, Tift and my Mrs.

Anyway, she's been one of my favorite singers since I first heard her Tambourine record in 2004. Great songs and a gorgeous voice. I hope to enjoy her music for many more years. Here's one of my favorite songs by her from her first record Bramble Rose. Enjoy!

Cat Power - Lived In Bars

I fell for Cat Power when I heard Cross Bones Style for the first time on her Moon Pix record. I'm always amazed at how Chan Marshall's voice can sound laid back and thrilling at the same time. I'm looking forward to hearing her new record (apparently out later this year), but until then, here's a cool video from 2006's The Greatest.

Interpol - NYC

I was all over Turn On The Bright Lights by Interpol when it came out. Such a haunting record. I hate to admit it, but I probably haven't listened to it in about five years. After watching today's video, I think I know what I'll be listening to this afternoon. Enjoy!