Leah Capelle (May 31, 2015)

There are few better recommendations than those that come from artists I like/respect.  Such is the case with the incredibly talented Leah Capelle.  Her music was recommended by Arden Kaywin (featured in this blog back in July, 2009!) who did some producing/arranging on Leah's self titled EP, released just last week. The first single, "Would You Know" is such a great song (check out the video below). She has a wonderful voice that can just as easily warm your heart or break it. She is the epitome of the modern day singer-songwriter who can captivate with voice and guitar or fill the room with a band. This EP has six songs that will take you on a musical journey that you won't soon forget.

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira

PS I wanted to announce that as of July 5th, the Emerge Music Group 8th Anniversary, I will be taking a break from weekly posts.  I will continue to feature emerging bands on Twitter (@emergemusic), our Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/emergemusic) but I will do it more with quick tweets, posting a video or song, etc. and it may be once a week, several times a week or just whenever I hear something worth sharing.  I've been doing weekly posts, without fail, for almost 8 years and it's time to change things up. So I'm not going anywhere but looking to share great new music with people in simpler, easier ways then the traditional weekly posts.  I hope you'll continue to follow me and continue to support great up and coming music and musicians.

Leah Capelle: "Would You Know"

Mike Meadows (May 24, 2015)

Mike Meadows is an emerging artist who has played in the biggest venues, in front of huge audiences with thousands and thousands of screaming teenage girls and yet hardly anyone knows his name.  That's because he plays guitar, banjo, keyboards and more in Taylor Swift's band. But he is a talented singer and song writer who recently released an EP ("When You Need Someone, Vol. 1")  that will appeal to fans of Taylor but also to a wide range of music lovers.  He has an easy going style that walks on the line between pop, country, folk and rock.  These five songs are all great and go along nicely with a drive in the countryside, a backyard BBQ or a live show at your local bar or coffeehouse.  Go give it a listen and show some love to one of the guys behind the biggest artist on the planet.

Have a great week and enjoy the music!

Ira

An Honest Year (May 17, 2015)

An Honest Year call themselves a pop-punk band and I guess that label fits but it is also a bit limiting. While this band can rock out with the best of the them they are also have a high level of musicianship which isn't always the case in this broad genre.  Their latest EP, "Horizons" showcases their vast skill set, incredible song writing, delicious hooks and so much more.  "I Hope This Hurts" and "Chin Up, Kid" are two of my favorites from this 5 song collection. Check out what these guys from Philly have to offer.

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira

The Ballroom Thieves (May 10, 2015)

I'm not exactly sure why, but I love it when a modern bound adds a cello to their lineup.  Not just for a song or two, but as an integral part of their band.  Years ago I loved a band called "Verbow" that did just that and now I am enjoying the fantastic sounds of The Ballroom Thieves, who beautifully use the cello as a focal point of their music.  Their debut full length album, "A Wolf in the Doorway" is out now and really wonderful. Music full of warm sounds, great harmonies and incredible song writing.  Some of their music sounds somewhat similar to The Lumineers or The Lone Bellow but that cello just adds something special. Start with the amazing song "Wild Woman" and then just keep listening, there is a lot to like!

Have a great week and enjoy the music!
Ira

Katrina Stone (May 3, 2015)

Katrina Stone sounds a little bit like every female singer you've ever liked, and at the same time presents a sound that is truly her own.  While she's spent some time in the duo "The Likes of Us" she really shows her true colors with the release of "Never Wanna Grow Up" - the title alone grabbed my attention and the song is a total favorite.  The whole album is full of music that is warm, inviting and full. Where most singer songwriters stick to the basic guitar/bass/drums set-up this album has a much more full sound with multiple layers of vocals, full band including horns and much more.  The album kind of feels like the Katrina Stone Variety Show and it works from beginning to end.  What's even better is that she isn't selling the album on iTunes but giving it away for the cost of your email address on Noisetrade (tips are always appreciated and accepted).  There's so much to like!

Have a great week and enjoy the music!

Ira