Taylor Henderson (August 31, 2014)

Don't discredit Taylor Henderson just because he's been on two reality competition shows - he has a great voice and his latest album, "Burnt Letters" is excellent and full of fantastic songs.  At least the shows he was on were in Australia where he was a finalist on "Australia's Got Talent" (2010) and "X-Factor Australia" (2013).  When I came across this album I quickly got hooked on his music with songs such as "Already Gone," "Worth Waiting For," "Close to Nothing" and "When You Were Mine."  This is heart felt and quality pop music that gives me reason to believe we'll be seeing Taylor in the US before long.

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira
P.S. Want to know what I've been listening to this month? Check out my new monthly Spotify playlist!!

Silver Trees (August 24, 2014)

Silver Trees has a brand new 5 song EP ("Fighting The Rust") coming out this Tuesday and I haven't heard any of the songs yet, but I can't wait to buy it!  Based on the music they have released so far I know it's going to be perfection.  Their debut EP, "Paper Hearts" is stunning.  "She" (see video below) starts off simply and builds to the most soothing chorus that simply wraps its arms around you and holds you tight. The title track is a gorgeous duet that lightly bounces around the room.  They seem unable to write a track that doesn't make me fall in love with them all over again. And it seems to only be a matter of time before their songs are all over television shows, movies and being used for incredible dance numbers on "So You Think You Can Dance."  I no doubt will be up late Monday night waiting for their EP to be released so I can hear for myself what they have come up with.  For now you can go get "Paper Hearts" as well as their more recent single "Close Your Eyes" (a beautiful and heart wrenching tune) for free at Noisetrade: http://noisetrade.com/silvertrees

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira



"She" by Silver Trees from Silver Trees on Vimeo.

Sheppard (August 17, 2014)

Get ready because here comes Sheppard!  This Australian group is on their way to the US and are bringing with them their ridiculously catchy single "Geronimo" along with their new EP of the same name.  This song may be the song that everyone is singing/humming this Fall - and if you don't believe me  just ask Scooter Braun (the guy who brought us Justin Bieber, Carly Rae Jepsen and Ariana Grande among others) because he has just started working with this group.  Big things are in store for them so get on the bandwagon before it gets too crowded.  Don't stop with Geronimo - be sure to check out "Flying Away" and "Something's Missing" which are also great songs.

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira

Vintage Trouble (August 10, 2014)

I am so glad that Vintage Trouble finally released their new album, "The Swing House Acoustic Sessions" to iTunes to give me a great excuse to feature them.  This band has a sound unlike any other that I know of right now. They beautifully combine classic rock and soul sounds with a modern day edge.  Their lead singer, Ty Taylor, is one of my all time favorites (check out his work with Dakota Moon - one of my favorite bands that most people haven't heard of) and this music suits his stellar voice.  Their 2012 release, "The Bomb Shelter Sessions" is full speed ahead blues and soul tinted rock with so many great songs.  And now they've stripped it down with this acoustic release.  These guys just do it all right!

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira

You Me At Six (August 3, 2014)

You Me At Six is another great high energy rock band from the UK and their latest release, "Cavalier Youth" is full of great songs that serve as a great accompaniment for your next work out, long drive or outdoor party. These guys know how to craft songs that take you along for a great ride! They've been touring all over the world and are heading to the US this Fall! From the footage I've seen I have a feeling this is a band not to be missed live!

Have a great week and enjoy the music!

Ira

Album link
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/cavalier-youth/id798989961

Twin Forks (July 27, 2014)

I'm shocked that Twin Forks isn't a bigger deal.  The band's full length self titled debut album has everything going for it to be a monster hit in 2014.  They have that awesome folk/americana sound that is found in bands like Mumford and Sons, The Lumineers, and others. The band, led by Chris Carrabba (formerly of Dashboard Confessional) is incredible and features great male and female vocals. The songs are upbeat, catchy and have broad appeal.  I can't list any favorite tracks because they are all so good.  All I can do is recommend that you give this incredible group a listen.

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira

The Morrison Brothers Band (July 20, 2014)

The Morrison Brothers Band is breaking the mold of what it means to be a band from our Nation's Capitol. DC is known more for their rock/punk scene with the occasional hip-hop group thrown in but country music is not something you get much of from a truly local band. The Morrison Brothers are changing all of that with their latest release, "State of the Union," which is an outstanding album that fits really well into the modern country scene. But this band hasn't skipped town and moved to Nashville though I'm sure they'd be very welcome there.  The album starts off strong with the duet, "Treat Me Right," continue with the rocking "Little Miss Whisky" and closes with a gorgeous ballad "Without Me." If you are one of those people who claim to "not like country music" don't miss out on this group and album - give it a chance!

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira