My Favorite Albums of 2015

Happy 2016, friends! I hope the new year has been good to you so far! Well, even though this is a little late, I thought I would go ahead and blog about a few albums that were my favorite throughout 2015. I know it’s been pretty quiet on my blog for some time now but if there’s anything I can certainly blab on and on about, it’s music lol. So I hope you enjoy reading and maybe even discover a band or two. Also, let me know what your favorite albums and artists were in 2015 or what album you’re looking forward to 2016.

Vitals by MUTEMATH

The only downside to being a MUTEMATH fan is waiting 4 or 5 years between albums lol… but it’s without a doubt, always worth the wait. I’m always on the edge of my seat to see what these guys are going to do next. They never fail to make innovative and creative music with their signature experimental sound. Vitals, their 4th album, released in November, and did not disappoint. It’s definitely more synth heavy and poppy than their last album, Odd Soul, which had a classic rock vibe to it. But it’s sill the MUTEMATH we all know and love… just a little dancier this time around and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. Vitals will definitely keep you dancing throughout 2016.

Some of my favorites are: Best of Intentions, Monument, Used To, and Joy Rides.

Side note: My sister, the lucky duck that she is, got to see them in concert last year and said it was the best concert she’s ever been to. No surprise there, as these guys are known for their killer live shows. Hoping to finally find that out for myself in the near future. They're actually going to be at the House of Blues in Houston next month. Sadly, I have no one to go with... ahem, any takers? ;) They might be the only band I’ve been a fan of for over a decade and still have not seen live. And that simply has to change.

The Wonderlands EPs by Jon Foreman

Can I just start out by saying how beautiful this box set is? It’s all four EPs and 4 post cards in a beautiful wooden box. My sister got me this for my birthday and I was beyond thrilled! Makes a great keepsake for a crazy fan like myself.

The Wonderlands is 4 eps (Sunlight, Shadows, Darkness, & Dawn), based on the 24 hours in a day, 24 amazing producers, that all led up to Jon performing a whopping 25 shows in 24 hours. Quite the impressive project to say the least. Any Jon Foreman fan knows that these EPs had been a long time coming. The last time the Switchfoot frontman released any solo music was in 2008. It was totally worth the wait as this is without a doubt some of Jon’s most profound and heartfelt songwriting. You can just feel that he put all his blood, sweat, and tears into these songs.

He also worked with some top notch producers/artists for this project, such as: Darren King (MUTEMATH), Charlie Peacock, Sara Watkins (Nickel Creek), Ryan O’Neal (Sleeping at Last), and Andrew Wessen (Grouplove)… just to name a few.

I can’t say enough good things about these songs as they already mean so much to me. They are honest, introspective, and worshipful. They capture your heart and take you on a journey from start to finish. They make you think, feel, and consider. They remind of you beauty and truth in a world where it’s so easy to forget.

Some of my favorites are: Mercy’s War, All of God’s Children, Good For Me, and Patron Saint of Rock and Roll.

Majestic Revisited by Kari Jobe

I started listening to this album on Spotify a few months ago and fell in love with these songs. I would listen to it in the kitchen while I was cooking and baking and just found myself worshiping God as I was stirring batters or chopping vegetables lol. I needed the worship and the presence of God that these songs ushered in.

Majestic Revisited is a remix of Kari’s original Majestic Live album, which was recorded in her hometown of Dallas, TX. One of the reasons I love it is because, since it is a remix album, the music and arrangements are a little more creative and out of the box than most worship albums. Which is always refreshing. Ranging from ethereal and ambient to a little dance pop in sound. But the most important thing is that these songs are truly anointed. I received this album for Christmas and have been having some sweet times of worship to it.

Some of my favorites are: Keeper of My Heart, Breathe on Us, I Am Not Alone, and Always Enough.

Venus by Joy Williams

I’ve been following Joy’s career since her CCM days when I was only about 16 years old. It’s been really amazing to hear the evolution of her music over the years; the way her writing has changed and the way she has changed. Venus is her first solo album in quite some time and the first since the break up of her duo, The Civil Wars. Joy has been very open and honest about the turmoil she faced that inspired much of this album. Not only had The Civil Wars broken up, but her marriage was falling apart, her dad was battling Cancer, and all the while she was still adjusting to being a new mom. She turned to music to work through these emotions.

The result being a brutally honest album with lots of raw emotion. But also with a sense of hope for a new beginning that you can hear in her voice.

Some of my favorites are: Woman (Oh Mama), Not Good Enough, Until the Levee, and What a Good Woman Does.

Control by Milo Greene

This California band captured my heart a few years ago with their folk sensibilities and beautiful harmonies. Their sophomore album, Control, marked a new chapter for the band as it was a definite departure from that sound. This move was met with quite a bit of criticism, which is unfortunate because, in my opinion, it’s a truly good album. The quality of the songwriting, the vocals, even some harmonies are still there just set to the back drop of more of an 80’s reminiscent pop sound. There’s even some rock happening here… I mean, the percussion in Parents’ House and the music and vocals in When it’s Done. Yes, Milo can rock!

Look, I love bands that take risks with their sound. Bands that don’t make music just to try and please the masses. Bands that don’t settle for making the same album twice. I really believe that both this album and this band are highly underrated. While I will always love the first album, I’m having a great time dancing along to Control.

Some favorites are: Lonely Eyes, Heartless, Not Enough, and When it’s Done.

Absentee EP by Violents

Voilents is a project by musician/songwriter, Jeremy Larson, where in which he collaborates with different artists for each EP. For “Absentee”, the second installment in this project, he partnered with Stacy Dupree King (Eisley, Sucre). Jeremy and Stacy also have another project together called Sucre, along with Stacy’s husband, Darren King (MUTEMATH), so I had no doubt that Absentee was going to be good. Stacy is one of my favorite female vocalists, her angelic voice paired with Jeremy’s songwriting/arrangements is such a winning combo. Makes me hungry for the next Sucre album. Side note, if you haven’t yet checked out Sucre please do yourself a favor and go listen here, seriously like right now. Not to be bossy or anything…

This is a short 4 song EP and really all the songs are so good that it’s hard to pick a favorite, but here’s a couple I can’t stop listening to: Northeast, Absentee.

Honorable Mention - Hozier by Hozier

Okay, so yes, I know that this album released in 2014 but I just couldn’t leave it off the list. This was hands down the album I listened to the most in 2015. I just fell crazy in love with this guy’s soulful, bluesy vocals and songs. It was pretty much always playing in my house throughout the year, not even joking. But that voice… I. just. can’t. even. He’s just one of the most talented artists that I’ve come across in a long time. Anyway, I will stop gushing about this dashing Irishman now before it gets any worse than it already is… I mean, it’s not like I’m fan girling or anything ;). These are some of my favorites: From Eden, Work Song, Jackie and Wilson, and In a Week.

And because I’m a little obsessed and could probably listen to this a million times and never get tired of it, here’s an amazing acoustic performance of another one of my favorites, To Be Alone -

 

 

And a fun fact for those that grew up listening to Christian music like I did and remember the talented Rachael Lampa, well she happens to be one of his backing vocalists. How awesome is that? It's been so fun to see her performing with him on The Grammys and all the late night talk shows. She still has that powerhouse voice.

Album I’m looking forward to the most in 2016 – Switchfoot’s 10th album!!! They are in the writing and recording process right now and from what I hear, planning to release it in the Summer. They are giving updates and blogging about the process over on their website: Switchfoot.com! Can’t wait to see what these are going to do next!

And before I wrap this up, a few photos of my Christmas season!

     
Our living room all decked out for Christmas!

 

My dad’s White Chocolate Raspberry Cake, it’s not Christmas to me without this cake! Our table set for Christmas dinner, a cozy corner in our living room, and ornaments on our tree!

Our New Years Eve spread, Gouda Cheese Fondue with herb crostini's, tamales (not pictured), sparkling grape juice, and some Chocolate Espresso Pots De Crème for dessert!

Wishing y’all grace and peace in this new year!

Favorite Albums & Music Discoveries of 2013

Happy New Years Eve, friends! We’ve come to the last hours of 2013 and out of all of the many lovely things there are to reflect on from this year… I’m of course choosing to reflect on the music! I honestly didn’t buy a lot of albums this year but I thought I’d share reviews of a few favorites. I also did discover some awesome bands that I wanted to share with you as well!

This is the second year I’ve done these lists, check out last years here! Also, I would love to know what your picks are for 2013!

Favorite Albums of 2013 -

The Civil Wars by The Civil Wars

Ah, the band that hasn’t officially been a band for a over a year now but I still love like crazy anyway. I’m nothing if not loyal. This album deserves the #1 spot because it is truly amazing from start to finish and because I honestly have listened to it almost everyday since its August release lol. Therefore I know every song by heart… well except for “Sacred Heart” which is sung all in French (though I do admit to mumbling along anyway as if I know what I’m saying.)

This is the second (& presumably final) album from the duo known as The Civil Wars (Joy Williams & John Paul White). You can’t help but get the sense that whatever tension they were going through personally spilled over into this album as it’s definitely a little darker and more intense than their debut “Barton Hollow”. Even opener, “The One That Got Away” starts with a confession of sorts, “I never meant to get us in this deep. I never meant for this to mean a thing. I wish you were the one, I wish you were the one that got away.”  The term “southern gothic” definitely comes to mind while listening to these songs, especially on a track like “Devil’s Backbone”.

It’s also a departure from their usual sparse instrumentation. Throughout the songs we hear drums and electric guitars, though different for them, it works. Previously unrecorded tracks that had been long time live concert fan favorites such as “From This Valley” (my favorite & also Grammy nominated), “Oh Henry”, and Smashing Pumpkins cover “Disarm” also found a place on this recording. My only problem (& it’s a minor one) with this album is that I feel that John Paul’s vocals aren’t quite as prominent as they were on “Barton Hollow”. And I found myself missing his voice.

Whatever happened that broke up this beautiful musical union is a mystery but I cannot help but remain hopeful for reconciliation and more music from these two in the future.

My favorite tracks are: “I Had Me a Girl”, “Eavesdrop”, “Devil’s Backbone”, “From This Valley”, and “Sacred Heart”. To purchase album click here.

Currents by Eisley

One of the main reasons I’ve been a longtime fan of the TX based family band known as Eisley is because their music has a way of transporting you to a different place and taking you on a magical journey. Each album like another chapter to some sort of fairytale. Their 4th album “Currents”, which released in May, is no exception.

Opener and title track “Currents” instantly captures you with haunting music and Stacy’s ethereal vocals. The growth and maturity of the band is apparent in every track. The instrumentation richer and the lyrics poetic. You also notice right away that there is a water theme to these songs, even the beautiful cover, which was designed by Sherri hints to it. And this time around not only do Stacy and Sherri share lead vocal duties but we finally get to hear Chauntelle’s beautiful voice on “Millstone”, which is without a doubt one of the loveliest moments on the album.

My favorite tracks are: “Currents”, “Drink The Water”, “Millstone”, and “Blue Fish”. If you need a little whimsical in your life (& who doesn’t?) pick up this album here.

Kids Raising Kids by Kopecky Family Band

I suppose this band could also go into the “music discoveries” list as I just found out about them this past summer. After hearing their song “Heartbeat” and falling head over heels in love with it, I immediately bought the album. “Kids Raising Kids”, which has an indie rock vibe, became my go to cd through out the summer. For me it was one of those rare albums where I didn’t skip a track. Some of the songs having a sort of throwback back 60’s or 70’s sound to me.

Yes, their name implies they are family… but not in the biological sense. Kelsey Kopecky, Gabe Simon, Steven Holmes, David Krohn, Markus Midkiff, and Corey Oxendine are friends who came together in Nashville, TN to form this band. After singing together a few times they felt like they had been doing it all their lives, as if they had been a family band. So they tacked on Kelsey’s last name because they liked the way it sounded and the rest is history.

My favorite tracks are: “Are You Listening”, “Heartbeats”, “Wandering Eyes”, “Hope”, and “Angry Eyes”. Buy the album here.

Favorite Music Discoveries of 2013 -

Audrey Assad

Even though she’s already been around for while and I’ve actually been following her on Twitter for some time, I just recently really sat down and soaked in the beautiful music of Audrey Assad. I honestly don’t think I’ve been this moved by a Christian artist’s music in a long time.  Her lyrics are so honest, heartfelt, and worshipful with lovely piano based music. She kind of reminds me of Nichole Nordeman in the way that her music requires something more from you, it isn’t background music… it makes you think, feel, and beckons you closer to Jesus. Check out one of my favorite songs by Audrey: “Breaking You”.

Haim

Sisters Este, Danielle, and Alana make up the LA based band, Haim (not pronounced like Corey Haim like I originally thought but it actually rhymes with “time”). Their music has a definite 80’s and 90’s sound. I mean, they would have fit in perfectly in that era. It’s pop music mixed with some r&b influences. I’ve been obsessed with this song lately: “Falling”.

Lindsey Stiriling

I don’t normally listen to much instrumental music but I was completely mesmerized by the beautiful sounds of violinist, Lindsey Stirling! Dubbed the “dancing violinist” this girl rocks the violin! Yes, rocks! This is not tame classical music. It’s so fun to watch her dance and totally rock out in her videos, which are often very theatrical. Violin and Dubstep  are two things I would never think would work together but somehow, Lindsey makes it work in what is my favorite track, “Crystallize”.

First Aid Kit

Another sister band! Johanna and Klara Söderberg make up the Swedish folk/country duo, First Aid Kit. Their songs are full of beautiful harmonies as well as pretty and often haunting melodies. The song that made me a fan is the sweet sounds of “Emmylou”. Can’t help but sing along when this track is on.

“Now so much I know that things just don’t grow if you don’t bless them with your patience.”

Lucius

This 5 piece band from Brooklyn have a definite retro vibe to not only their sound but also their personal style. The two lead singers, Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig even wear matching vintage outfits and jewelry. I know, I so want to be a part of this band! Right away I loved their vocal harmonies and catchy songs that made me want to sing along. To me it’s indie rock with kind of a throwback twist. My favorite track: “Turn It Around”.

Lorde

I’m sure just about everyone by now has heard of New Zealand artist, Lorde. Whose real name is actually Ella Maria Lani Yelich-O'Connor. My cousin recently introduced me to her music. After hearing “Royals” I instantly became a fan. I know everyone keeps saying the same thing but it’s true, I can’t believe she’s only 16! Talent beyond her years and I think she’s winning people over by doing something different. Something that sounds unique. And that now a days is an impressive feat. My favorite track: “Bravado”.

Album I'm looking forward to in 2014 -

"Fading West" by Switchfoot

Been waiting for this album from my favorite band in the world for a while now. But luckily I won’t have to wait too much longer… “Fading West”, Switchfoot’s 9th studio album, releases on January 14th!!! Woot! From what I’ve heard so far, it’s going to rock!

Thanks to anyone who has visited my little corner of the world here through out 2013. It was fun! Here’s a toast to a hopefully beautiful 2014! Happy New Years, folks!

Nostalgic Christian Rock Playlists

Music is such a funny thing, it's amazing to me how just the first few notes of a song can bring back a rush of memories. It can be a time machine transporting you back to different times in your life; good and bad.

This post is kind of a special one as I have my sister, Cecily, guest blogging with me!! As kids we both grew up listening to a ton of Christian music and going to lots of concerts. And while yes, looking back some of that music may have had a slight cheese factor to it (cough, Carmen ;)), it played a huge role in our lives. And going to concerts & experiencing live music at such an early age was a really fun way to grow up & I wouldn't trade it for the world.

This love of Christian music and concerts continued into our teen years and into adulthood. But our tastes definitely changed... instead of Carmen or Point of Grace we were now listening to Switchfoot, Hawk Nelson, Showbread, and Underoath (to the complete horror of our parents who gave us many lectures about listening to screamo ... or bands who "sound like the world" ;)).

Even though in recent years a lot has changed, I lost my concert buddy as my sister is now married & living in GA, and I think both our tastes in music have changed a little. But we both still love these songs. Not only because their nostalgic and bring back lots of fun and happy memories... but also because it's just really good music. I think we'll always love them. So in honor of that love we wanted to share our Christian rock favorites with you guys today!

It's hard not to be nostalgic when it comes to these songs but I'll try not to be overly sentimental. After all these are rock playlists and how rock 'n roll would that be, right? ;)

Cecily’s Christian Rock Playlist -

Oh, the nights my sister and cousin spent listening to these songs. They are all beautiful memories to us. I had so much fun putting this list together because with each song I was reminded of a night or year or a specific time in my life…these songs followed us. I sound sappy but that is because a lot has changed over the last couple years. I have moved to another state and can’t always see my family as often as I want so the memories these songs hold for us help me to feel like I am not so far away. I can put on a song and it’s like they are right there next to me. Skillet says it the best in their song “Those Nights” –

“Through all the hard times in my life
Those nights kept me alive” – That they did and still do.

Be sure to check out Cecily’s blog, Bluebonnets & Peaches!

Krystal’s Christian Rock Playlist -

The songs I chose remind me of every Friday and Saturday night sitting down with my sister and watching our music video shows. It may sound dorky but watching our music videos (and sometimes baking up a pan of brownies) was something we looked forward to every weekend... we were just wild & crazy like that lol. We started watching TVU's "Ten Most Wanted" back in 2004 (rarely ever missed an episode) as well as many others that we discovered so many bands we now love through. They also remind me of rocking out at concerts with my sister and cousin! Those were some of the most fun times ever... so these songs bring back those memories and really make me miss them like crazy!

My Favorite Albums & Music Discoveries of 2012

Can’t believe we only have hours of 2012 left. Crazy! Hope you are all having a fun and happy New Years Eve! This year just seemed to fly by. There’s a lot to reflect on when thinking about this year but right now I want to talk about one of my favorite things of 2012: the music.

It has definitely been a great year for music. Some of my favorite bands released some killer albums and I felt like I was just discovering new favorite bands left and right. Here is a list of some of my favorite albums and music discoveries of 2012.

Also, I would love to know what albums and artists made your list this year so please feel free to share! Happy New Years, friends! :)

Favorite Albums of 2012 -

Milo Greene – Self titled debut

Okay, so you might say that I have a slight obsession with this album… I’ve been listening to it almost everyday since it’s release. But I can’t help it, I simply need my daily Milo fix. This 5 piece CA band released their self titled debut album in July to much anticipation. Especially for those like me who discovered their music in 2011. But it was totally worth the wait as they created an album that is absolutely stunning from start to finish. You will fall in love with the beautiful harmonies and haunting melodies.

My favorite tracks are … well, every track, but if I had to choose a few: “What’s The Matter”, “1957”, “Take A Step”, “Autumn Tree,” and “Wooden Antlers”. If you haven’t checked out Milo Greene yet what are you waiting for?!

To purchase album click here

The Lumineers – Self titled debut

“Keep your head up. Keep your love.”

That’s a lyric from what is possibly my favorite song of 2012, “Stubborn Love” by Denver based band, The Lumineers. Their self titled debut album, which released in April, stole my heart. This album is pure joy, let me tell you! Everything about it makes me feel incredible. You can’t help but dance around to their foot stomping folk sound, beautiful harmonies, and heartfelt lyrics.

Even though without a doubt “Stubborn Love” is my favorite, with the lyrics making a permanent place in my heart; some of my other favorites include: “Ho Hey”, “Big Parade”, “Flowers In Your Hair”, and “Dead Sea”. 

To purchase album click here

Kimbra – Vows

Pop music made by someone with real talent is sadly an oxymoron. But Kimbra proves that it’s actually possible. For someone so young she truly has talent well beyond her years. When this album is on I simply cannot help but sing and dance along to every track. Her music is just too fun! The fusion of pop, dance, and jazz is infectious.

My favorite tracks are, “Good Intent”, “Something In The Way You Are”, “Two Way Street”, and “Posse”. “Vows” is on constant rotation in my cd player, it’s an album that I don’t even think it’s possible for me to get tired of.

To purchase album click here

Anberlin – Vital

Anberlin just released their 6th studio album, Vital, in October. When I heard a few songs from the album on YouTube last month my first thought was, “Yes! Finally! This is what I’ve been waiting for from them!”.  I seriously haven’t loved an album from them this much since “Cities”, which is my favorite Anberlin album. “Cities” set the bar pretty high for me not only because every song is amazing but also because it walked with me through a very tough time in my life. So it means a lot to me. And in my opinion their last two albums just weren’t quite up to par, but this one… is. so. awesome.

Though I just received this cd as a Christmas gift from my sister it hasn’t left my cd player since. I can’t get enough. My favorite tracks are “Self Starter”, “Someone Anyone'”, “Modern Age”, & “God, Drugs, & Sex”. Be sure to give Vital a listen, it’s truly Anberlin at their very best.

To purchase album click here

Sucre – A Minor Bird

Three incredible musicians whom I’ve loved individually for a longtime came together and recorded an album and it’s, in a word, breathtaking! Stacy Dupree King (Eisley), Darren King (MUTEMATH), and Jeremy Larson make up the stunning combination that is Sucre. With Stacy’s angelic vocals, Darren's crazy beats, and Jeremy’s beautiful string arrangements they have created one of the most dreamy, ethereal, and magical albums I’ve ever heard,

My favorite tracks are “When We Were Young”, “Chemical Reaction”, “Stampede” and “Say Something”. Be sure to pick up “A Minor Bird” if you haven’t already.

To purchase album click here

Favorite Music Discoveries of 2012:

The Lumineers

Though there were a lot of good music discoveries made in 2012, I think these guys may be my favorite. Here’s the song that made me a fan: “Stubborn Love”.

St. Vincent

Even though St. Vincent has been around for a while I just discovered her music this year and was blown away. The first time I watched the incomparable Annie Clark play guitar my jaw was on the floor. Seriously, this girl can shred! Watching her play, her fingers flying across the fretboard, is thrilling but also fills me with a deep sense of regret… like why didn’t I lock myself in my room for ten hours a day practicing guitar just so I could play half as good as Annie? And yet even after taking lessons off & on during my teens years and early 20’s, here I sit only remembering like 4 chords. Ugh! But I digress.

She has become my favorite female artist not only because of her mad guitar skills but also because of the diversity of her music. It ranges from pretty and ethereal pop, to gritty rock, to almost ambient & electronic in sound. If you’ve never heard St. Vincent check out this video of her performing her song “Surgeon”. The guitar riff in this song is insane… I can’t even.

The Paper Kites

Oh what to say about The Paper Kites…you just have to experience them for yourself. And it is an experience. Just put on their music, close your eyes, and prepare to be taken to a far away land. They make some of the most magical music you will ever hear. Check out my favorite Paper Kites song: “Bloom”.

The Vespers

Two sisters and two brothers meet at a camp fire jam session and the rest as they say is history. They make bluegrass/folk music with faith tinged lyrics that you can feel in your soul. Plus, these girls can sing! Check out their their rendition of Son House's "Grinnin' In Your Face".

The Head & The Heart

These guys are seriously so good! I fell in love with their music after hearing the song “Rivers & Roads” on YouTube one night. This song is not only beautiful but I just felt like it summed up everything I’d been thinking and feeling throughout the year.

Kimbra -

I keep forgetting that I just discovered her music this year after seeing her in, what else, Gotye’s video for ‘Somebody That I Used To Know” last January. Feels like I’ve been listening to her forever. I actually ended up becoming more of a fan of hers than Gotye’s. Can’t remember when pop music sounded this good. Here’s one of my Kimbra favorites: “Good Intent”.

Family of the Year -

Just discovered this band from Los Angeles in the summer and have been loving their music ever since. Their song “St Croix” was the song I pretty much wore out all summer long… my summer jam, if you will. 

6 Artists You Oughta Know

Digging for music has always been one of my favorite past times. Even as a kid, while my dad would spend hours browsing books in Christian bookstores, I would be scouring the music section for cds (okay, mostly cassette tapes). Always searching for new music that would spark my attention. Well some things never change. Except now, instead of a bookstore, I scour the internet in search of good music. There’s something magical about finding amazing new tunes to add to the soundtrack of your life. Sometimes you really have to dig through the Katy Perry’s of the world to find the good stuff; but other times, without even trying, you stumble upon a gem or two.

These are 6 artists whose music I’ve recently stumbled onto by accident and have fallen in love with. Yes, you could say that this is my version of VH1’s popular “You Oughta Know” series. A list of just a few artists that in my humble opinion, you oughta know.

Marc Scibilia

Folks, this guy is the one to watch! Folk/rock crooner, Marc Scibilia will capture your attention with his soulful songs and Johnny Cash-esque vocals. Not to mention ladies, he’s kinda adorable…oh that smile (Can I say that without sounding too shallow? Oh well I’m going to say it anyway). “Better Man” is the first song I ever heard from Marc and was instantly hooked. He just released an EP entitled “Bright Day Coming”. Give Marc’s music a listen!

“I don’t have a real job, I write songs for a living. My grandmother still thinks I am going to be a doctor. My mother calls and wishes I’d move back home to NY. My dad leaves 5 minute long voicemails about how proud he is of me and usually asks (for the 1,000th time) how to get on YouTube to see my latest work. Yes, it’s complicated and there’s a lot to share. But I write songs, so I will usually keep our interactions to around 3 minutes and thirty seconds or less.” – from Marc’s bio

https://www.facebook.com/marcscibilia

https://twitter.com/marcscibilia

The Lumineers

Denver, CO based folk/rock trio, The Lumineers are described as “an amalgam of heart-swelling stomp-and-clap acoustic rock, classic pop, and front-porch folk”, which could not be a more accurate description, in my opinion. Their music feels joyful, light, and free. So much so that you would never know that this is a band born out of tragedy. In 2002 lead singer, Wesley Schultz’s childhood friend Josh, who was also the brother of drummer, Jeremiah, died of a drug overdose. Wesley and Jeremiah found solace and healing through music and started writing songs together. They later on found classically trained cellist, Neyla Pekarek, and thus The Lumineers began.

The joy in their music is contagious. It’s exactly what music should be, a joyous celebration. Their self titled debut album released in April, be sure to pick it up!

https://www.facebook.com/TheLumineers

https://twitter.com/thelumineers

Butterfly Boucher

I’ve known of Australian singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Butterfly Boucher (Yes, Butterfly is her real name.) for a long time but had never heard any of her songs. I knew that she wrote for and with a lot of my favorite artists but have just recently become a fan of her music. Her indie/pop sound has a definite rock/dance edge to it. Butterfly’s first album released in 2004 on A&M Records and garnered attention from an elite list of artists such as David Bowie, Madonna, Ben Folds and Sarah McLachlan. Now independent, she just released her third album in April.  Hope you guys give this acoustic version of her song “The Weather” a listen. This is the one that made me a fan!

https://www.facebook.com/butterflyboucher

https://twitter.com/butterflyb

The Features

Loving this four piece Nashville based band’s infectious grooves. If you haven’t heard of The Features yet that will probably change soon as they have already been touring with such acts as Manchester Orchestra and Kings of Leon; and have also been featured on the Twilight soundtrack. I first stumbled onto their music in December when I was helping my cousin search for music to play during her wedding reception. I heard their song “The Idea of Growing Old” and thought it was a perfect fit! But the song above, “I Will Wander”, is what has really made me a fan.

The band has just released their new album “Wilderness” on Kings of Leon’s record label, Serpents and Snakes. These guys have an indie/rock vibe with a psychedelia edge, which makes for a very interesting sound. To quote their singer/guitarist Matt Pelham, “I feel like we walk this fine line, we're not weird enough for a certain crowd and we're a little bit too out there for the other crowd. We fall in the middle somewhere between mainstream and hipster, which puts us in this weird place, but we're all pretty happy to be here."

https://www.facebook.com/thefeatures

https://twitter.com/thefeatures

The Vespers

Oh man, these guys are something special. This Nashville based family band make southern folk/pop music that you can feel in your bones. The Vespers are made up of 4 pals; 2 sisters and 2 brothers. It was a chance meeting at a campfire jam session that brought together sisters, Callie and Phoebe Cryar, and brothers, Bruno and Taylor Jones.  Callie and Phoebe were born into a musical family; their dad is actually Morgan Cryar who was a Christian artist back in the 80’s and 90’s. For those of you who, like me, were born and raised on Christian music you may remember him.

Their faith plays a huge role in their music and brings a richness and depth to their lyrics. Fans on YouTube have described this bands performances as a “hippie revival” and I couldn’t agree more. They are passionate, soulful, and talented musicians that will have you practically head banging to the sound of the mandolin. Their new record “The Fourth Wall” is out now; I suggest you run out and pick it up a.s.a.p.!

https://www.facebook.com/TheVespers

https://twitter.com/thevespers

Harrison Hudson

“Give up the money. Don’t chase the honeys. Flies will always circle the pot. Bloom where you’re planted. Don’t take for granted. And cherish the one you got.”  This is the chorus to the cute and quirky “Cherish The One You Got” by Harrison Hudson. I stumbled onto this song just the other night and it instantly put a smile on my face. These lyrics are a good motto to live by, no?

Harrison Hudson is named after its lead singer and formed in Atlanta, GA in 2005. Their music is described as Rock/thrash pop and is heavily influenced by 50’s and 60’s rock n’ roll.  Now based in Nashville, they have released three records with the most recent being “American Thunder”. Be sure to give them a listen and take heed to this songs advice. ;)

https://www.facebook.com/harrisonhudson

https://twitter.com/harrisonhudson