Fool To Cry

Song: "Fool To Cry"
Artist: Rolling Stones
Album: Black and Blue

One of the Stones' prettiest songs ever, period. It's hard to believe Mick and the boys have ever shown a tender side, but when they have, they really have.

Arc of a Diver

Song: "Arc of a Diver"
Artist: Steve Winwood
Album: Arc of a Diver

There is something about the unique melody and arrangement of this song that is really compelling. That, and it sparks memories of high school for me.

Mothertrain

Song: "Lost"
Artist: Mothertrain
Album: Fool's Gold

When I was in a band in Cleveland almost a decade ago, we played a lot of shows with a great group called Mothertrain. They only put one album out, but it was really, really good and this band should have went further than they did. Isn't that how it is with a lot of talented artists though?

Let It Snow

Song: "Let It Snow"
Artist: Boyz II Men
Album: Christmas Interpretations

The holidays are upon us in full force, and this is a really great song that was a duet and co-write with Brian McKnight. It's really hard to believe the track was released almost fifteen years ago though! Happy holidays to you all and enjoy the rest of the season.

The DBs

Song: "Christmas Time"
Artist: The DBs
Album: Christmas Time Again

I'll admit I don't even know who this band is, but I heard this holiday song while scanning the iTunes store. It's jangly, Beach Boys-ish pop, and now I need to find out more about them. For me, it's the definitive Christmas track of 2007.

Man Who Would Be Santa

Song: "The Man Who Would Be Santa"
Artist: Vertical Horizon
Album: Running On Ice

Before Vertical Horizon broke out sort of big with their song "Everything You Want," from a great album with the same name, they were more of an acoustic-driven group. And this was one of the breezy, powerful songs from that era. It's not really a Christmas song at all, but I figured with the holiday season upon us, it's as good a time as any to bring up this fine track.

Snowfall

Song: "Snowfall"
Artist: Dan Fogelberg
Album: The First Christmas Morning

Since Dan Fogelberg passed away on Sunday, and it's the holiday season, it's a good time to not just reflect on his classic music, but on something from his awesome Christmas album. This track is an instrumental number that literally makes you feel like snow is falling outside your window, whether it is or not.

Remembering Dan Fogelberg

Song: "Nether Lands"
Artist: Dan Fogelberg
Album: Nether Lands

We lost a great singer/songwriter this past weekend. Dan Fogelberg succumbed to cancer at his home in Maine at the age of 56. Even though Dan had some great pop hits in the 80s, I remember my sister playing this Nether Lands album before that, and loving every song on it. Rest in peace, Dan...your music will always bring back memories and have a special place on my iTunes.

Novo Combo

Song: "Keep Your Love Alive"
Artist: Novo Combo
Album: Animation Generation

I know I've written about this great band before that only lasted for two albums, but here they are again. That's because those two albums are two of the best I've ever owned, especially Animation Generation. I'm just glad I found these guys again.

Jimi

Song: "Little Drummer Boy/Silent Night"
Artist: Jimi Hendrix
Album: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

I recently downloaded this track because, well, Jimi Hendrix was one of the greatest rock guitarists ever. This is a real distorted, noodling medley, but there is no denying its awesomeness.

Copper

Song: "Inside and Out"
Artist: Copper
Album: The Fragile Fall

I had the pleasure of repping this band a couple of years ago....they never really got the props they deserved, but hopefully they are still at it, because they really have great songs. If you are into the likes of Breaking Benjamin or Three Days Grace, you'll love Copper.

Let It Snow

Song: "Let It Snow"
Artist: Diana Krall
Album: Christmas Songs

The fact that Diana Krall named her holiday album Christmas Songs, says it all. It's simple, just like the simplistic beauty of Krall's voice and arrangements of these songs. This one came out in 2006, and it's still in heavy holiday rotation for me in 2007.

Jonatha

Song: "Steady Pull"
Artist: Jonatha Brooke
Album: Steady Pull

Jonatha Brooke is a fairly under the radar singer/songwriter, but this 2001 album was stunning to me. She isn't just a girl with a guitar, but someone with a full band that has just enough arrangement and production to bring the songs out. Great stuff.

Augustana

Song: "Stars and Boulevards"
Artist: Augustana
Album: Augustana

I may have written about this band's debut already, but even if I have, it's worth repeating how great the album is. This song was somewhat of a hit in the AAA radio market, but the whole set of songs is worth checking out.

Sister Hazel Christmas

Song: "Oh Holy Night"
Artist: Sister Hazel
Album: Santa's Playlist

In addition to Mindy Smith, I would put this album at the top of your Christmas music wish list in 2007 as well. I've never been a huge fan of this jangly rock band, but they put together a fine set of smartly arranged Christmas classics and original holiday songs with this one.

Basia

Song: "Time and Tide"
Artist: Basia
Album: Time and Tide

Polish born pop/jazz singer Basia began her career in the late eighties and had some marginally successful albums after that. This was the title track to her debut album, and it's really great stuff. She has a distinctive and very compelling voice.

The Milwaukees

Song: "Crown Royal"
Artist: The Milwaukees
Album: American Anthems Vol. 1

If you like Springsteen, Bon Jovi or Huey Lewis, you'll love this band from New Jersey. They are yet unsigned, but that doesn't mean you can't pick up their music online and pimp them like I am right now. These guys are REALLY good.

Heartache Weather

Song: "Heartache Weather"
Artist: Matthew Ryan
Album: East Autumn Grin

Matthew Ryan has a really cool, smoky voice...and some of his early stuff like this really rocks as well. Lately, he's written more acoustic-oriented stuff, but all of it is good.

Angie Aparo

Song: "Wonderland"
Artist: Angie Aparo
Album: Out of the Everywhere

Angie is a dude, and a dude who can sing his ass off. Case in point, this song where his vocal ability might just blow your mind.

Carol of the Bells

Song: "Carol of the Bells"
Artist: Al Di Meola
Album: Winter Nights

I had the opportunity to work with this amazingly talented guitarist last year as his publicist. He's pretty much in another class when it comes to jazz guitar players, and his Christmas album is no exception to his awesomeness. This is the first track on my annual Christmas playlist.

Michael Schenker

Song: "On and On"
Artist: Michael Schenker Group
Album: M.S.G.

Former UFO guitarist Michael Schenker and his M.S.G. outfit were back one year after their debut with a solid effort simply titled M.S.G. This guy can wail on the guitar, but this song not only rocks hard, it's melodic and strangely easy on the ears.

All My Friends

Song: "All My Friends"
Artist: Counting Crows
Album: This Desert Life

It might be the most unheralded Counting Crows album, but has some really great songs on it including this one. Seriously, this band has only released two albums in the last ten years, but their first two releases were so good they could tour forever based on them. But true fans of the band know there is more to them than that, including songs like this.

Christmas Time Is Here!

Song: "My Holiday"
Artist: Mindy Smith
Album: My Holiday

If you're going to buy one holiday album in 2007, this should be it. Mindy Smith is a sultry singer/songwriter with a great voice and delivers a nice mix of classic holiday songs as well as some of her own material on this one. I love Christmas music, and this is a great album to kick off the season with.

Giving Thanks for The Silver Seas

Song: "High Society"
Artist: The Silver Seas
Album: High Society

On the day before Thanksgiving, I'd like to give thanks to a great band I became hip to a few months ago, The Silver Seas. Their latest album, High Society, is one of the best releases I've heard in a long, long time. If you are into '70s flavored rock with soaring melodies and harmonies, go grab this one ASAP.

Brendan Benson

Song: "Cold Hands Warm Heart"
Artist: Brendan Benson
Album: Alternative To Love

You've probably heard the opening piano/guitar riff of this song in a commercial...for what, I can't remember, but it's pretty recognizable. And the rest of the song is pretty damn good too.

Marshall Tucker Band

Song: "Fly Like an Eagle"
Artist: The Marshall Tucker Band
Album: Carolina Dreams

This was one of the first bands I saw growing up, at the height of the Southern Rock boom of the late 70s along with The Outlaws, Molly Hatchet and Lynyrd Skynyrd. I can still smell the pot smoke all around the Nassau Coliseum. Ah, memories.

Bahia Funk

Song: "Bahia Funk"
Artist: Lee Ritenour
Album: Color Rit

I used to work with this older gentleman we called "Big George" who would say, "Lee Ritenour is right on the money!" If you listen to the jazz guitarist's "Bahia Funk" you'll understand why George felt that way. The dude can really pick it, and this is great Sunday morning music.

Redmond

Song: "Down and Distance"
Artist: Redmond
Album: Measure Of One

I had the pleasure of playing some shows with this Philadelphia band about 7 or 8 years ago. They were fun, great musicians, and had some incredible songs. This one is funky, melodic and extremely listenable.

Oliver's Army

Song: "Oliver's Army"
Artist: Elvis Costello
Album: Armed Forces

Elvis Costello has written some of the more melodic yet maybe underrated music in history, including this piano driven, boppy, politically charged song. I swear I never get sick of this guy's music.

Island In The Sun

Song: "Island In The Sun"
Artist: Weezer
Album: The Green Album

Here is a song that maybe defines summer for a lot of you....it's one of Weezer's greatest pure pop songs, and a diversion for this edgy alt/rock band. The melodic lead guitar work is really nice too.

Bryan Adams

Song: "There Will Never Be Another Tonight"
Artist: Bryan Adams
Album: Waking Up the Neighbors

Canadian rocker Bryan Adams lost cool points when he did that horrible Don Juan DeMarco theme, but you can't blame him for wanting the big bucks. Still, this album he put out in the early 90s really rocked, and if you saw him live in the 80s or 90s, he also put on a great show. And he's one hell of a songwriter.

Blush

Song: "Why"
Artist: Blush
Album: Blush

I'm not sure what this female-fronted Ohio rock band is up to these days, but man, they have some great songs and a killer sound. Think maybe a modern-day Concrete Blonde but with more edge.

A-Ha

Song: "Take On Me"
Artist: A-Ha
Album: Hunting High and Low

This is one of the great songs from the 80s and the early MTV generation, and one that takes me back to 1985 whenever I hear it. That's the beauty of music.

George Harrison

Song: "What Is Life"
Artist: George Harrison
Album: All Things Must Pass

This stuff recently became available on iTunes, and I couldn't be happier. My brother had this album on vinyl and I remember going down the basement in our Long Island home and listening to it over and over again. People I think tend to forget what a great songwriter George was when they compare him to John and Paul.

Silly Love Songs

Song: "Silly Love Songs"
Artist: Wings
Album: Wings Over America

I've got the live version of this great pop song from Paul McCartney and company, but in the studio version you can really hear what I believe is one of Sir Paul's greatest bass lines ever.

Long Way Down

Song: "Long Way Down"
Artist: Pete Yorn
Album: Day I Forgot

Speaking of "forgot," this album is all but forgotten in Pete Yorn Nation. It's his sophomore effort and the more rocking followup to the incredible Musicforthemorningafter, and has a few really great songs on it including this one.

Addicted To Me

Song: "Addicted To Me"
Artist: The Click Five
Album: Modern Minds and Pastimes

If you haven't heard this young pop/rock band yet, you need to check them out. This is from their latest album, which is every bit as catchy as their last record and then some. There are eighties flavors in here, and these kids just really know how to write good songs.

April McLean

Song: "So Far Away"
Artist: April McLean
Album: Becoming

If you throw a rock in Nashville, you'll hit a singer/songwriter. But some of them stand out, including piano playing rocker April McLean. This is from one of her earlier efforts and it's a really great song.

Winter In the Hamptons

Song: "Winter In the Hamptons"
Artist: Josh Rouse
Album: Nashville

Prolific singer/songwriter Josh Rouse put out this album a few years ago and it was a continuation of the breezy, melodic romp of 1972. Rouse knows how to write ear candy and this song is no exception. Plus, when I see the title, I think of that Seinfeld episode where George drives his ex-future-in-laws out to his imaginary house in the Hamptons.

Sofa Surfers

Song: "Believer"
Artist: Sofa Surfers
Album: Sofa Surfers

I reviewed this album last year and it's eclectic, electronic-influenced and just really cool. There's swirling instrumentation and melodies, all tied together nicely. A great, hip album to put on at a party.

We Are The Normal

Song: "We Are The Normal"
Artist: Goo Goo Dolls
Album: Superstar Car Wash

Long before Johnny Rzeznik was the judge on a reality show and before the Goo Goo Dolls "refined" their sound to be more radio-friendly, this band flat out rocked. They had a raw punk sound with pop sensibilities, something I wish they would revert back to at some point, if only for one album. This song from this album released in the early 90s is still one of the Goo Goo Dolls' best. Rzeznik and company even made strings sound cool here.

Nebraska

Song: "Dressed Up Like Nebraska"
Artist: Josh Rouse
Album: Dressed Up Like Nebraska

A friend of mine turned me on to Josh Rouse a few years back with this record. The dude writes hooky, breezy folk/pop that's as timeless as anything you'll ever hear. And he's prolific as hell. Check him out, especially this album.

Heart In Pieces

Song: "Heart In Pieces"
Artist: Chicago
Album: Chicago 19

There have been many incarnations of the band Chicago over the years. But when they released Chicago 19 in the late 80s, the signature horns accented some walls of guitars and Phil Collins-esque drum hits as well as many layers of harmonies (think Asia). This song was the opener on that record, and I'm writing this because it's not only a great rock song, but it's got a killer guitar solo in the middle. Check it out if you have the chance.

Opus 21

Song: "Opus 21"
Artist: Dustin O'Halloran
Album: Piano Solos Vol. 2

You want to get into classical music but don't want to start with anything too hardcore? Try Dustin O'Halloran's Piano Solos Vol. 2. It's not over the top, and in fact is the kind of thing you might hear in a hipster coffeehouse or bookstore.

Umbrellas

Song: "Boston White"
Artist: Umbrellas
Album: Illuminaire

In honor of the Red Sox going to the World Series, here is a song with Boston in the title from brooding alt-pop band Umbrellas. This album from last year is worth checking out if you haven't heard these guys yet.

Perfect To Stay

Song: "Perfect To Stay"
Artist: Collective Soul
Album: Youth

If you were a fan of this band in the 90s, you may have blinked and missed their latest effort, which came out in 2004 on Collective Soul's own label. But it's as good as anything they ever put out and this song, especially, is worthy of regular rotation in my player.

Sade

Song: "No Ordinary Love"
Artist: Sade
Album: Love Deluxe

I have always been a fan of Sade, but when I saw her live for the first time I couldn't help but, um, marvel, at how sexy she is. Anyway, her smooth, sultry voice and jazzy pop songs are timeless, and this is one of her best.

MSB

Song: "How Can You Call This Love"
Artist: Michael Stanley Band
Album: You Can't Fight Fashion

Anyone in Cleveland knows who Michael Stanley is, and he still fills up concert halls anywhere within a 100 mile radius. But the band only had mild success with a major label debut in the early 80s. This song is from the early days, and it will give you a glimpse into how great they were and should have become. It's got all sorts of cheesy 80s sounds and textures, and on this particular track Kevin Raleigh is the lead singer....but still, I absolutely love this song and so much of the band's early catalog.

Stein Drunk Dial

Song: "Stein Drunk Dial"
Artist: Mike Stein
Album: The Drunken Librarian

Not everything in my iTunes is music. In fact, this mp3 is one of my all-time favorites, and it's of my friend Mike Stein drunk dialing me a few years ago. In very slurred speech, Mr. Stein said something like "Farley, I don't know what time it is there, but as far as what time it is here, it's f--king DRUNK time!" Then he goes on to ramble words I, nor anyone else including Stein, can understand at all. Classic, classic, stuff.

Moments and Memories

Song: "Moments and Memories"
Artist: Mike Farley
Album: Moments and Memories

I'm going to take a moment here to pimp myself, because my new acoustic album is being released today. It's called Moments and Memories and you can pick it up, or individual songs, on iTunes. If you do check it out, please let me know what you think!

Feel

Song: "Feel"
Artist: Stereophonics
Album: Language Sex Violence Other?

I'm quite sure I've written about these guys before, but maybe not about this album. It's one of the best rock albums I've heard in the last ten years, as this British band just oozes "cool." This is a slower tempo track but most of the rest of the album rocks really hard.

Wire Daisies

Song: "Everyman"
Artist: Wire Daisies
Album: Everyman EP

This British band features the former lead singer of the band Tag, who released one album in 1992 and then vanished. If you dug that Tag record as I did, you'll love her new band Wire Daisies, and in particular this song. I wish I could remember this singer's name, and I'm too lazy to look it up right now.

The Sundays

Song: "Homeward"
Artist: The Sundays
Album: Static & Silence

Have you ever gone through your music collection and realized that you have a gem that you often forget about? That's the case with The Sundays' Static & Silence for me. I've heard their other efforts, but this one is light years better than any of them, and it's positively riveting. The Sundays are a female fronted British alt-pop band, and the songs on this record are just melancholy, melodic, and awesome.

Sick Cycle Carousel

Song: "Sick Cycle Carousel"
Artist: Lifehouse
Album: No Name Face

Many think the band Lifehouse are a sellout, since they got really commercial sounding with their second and third albums after their debut, No Name Face. I'm here to tell you their fourth album, Who We Are, is a return to a darker, more introspective sound, but it still doesn't match the magic of No Name Face. This album is one of the great modern rock records of the last decade.

Stalemate

Song: "Stalemate"
Artist: Nada Surf
Album: High/Low

Indie rock band Nada Surf went a bit lo-fi with their latest, and in my opinion, best album with The Weight Is a Gift. But after hearing and loving that effort, I went back through their catalog and ordered a bunch of songs, including this mid-tempo rocker. Great stuff.

Peter Searcy

Song: "Invent"
Artist: Peter Searcy
Album: Could You Please and Thank You

I first heard this guy at South By Southwest around the year 2000, and picked up this album. It still has regular rotation in my iTunes, and Searcy has since signed with Toucan Cove, releasing a new album (which is also really good) in 2007. He's more of a rocker than a singer/songwriter, and his edgy pop music is well worth checking out.

Jason White

Song: "Red Ragtop"
Artist: Jason White
Album: Shades of Gray

Many of you might recognize this song from when Tim McGraw cut it. But Jason White first released this on his own album, which is really awesome. Still, I'm sure White is loving the royalty checks he's likely still getting from McGraw's cut.

Butch

Song: "Take Tomorrow (One Day at a Time)"
Artist: Butch Walker
Album: Left of Self-Centered

I don't think I've said lately that Butch Walker is the freaking MAN. This album, his first solo effort after leaving Marvelous 3, is still Butch's best work as an artist, producer or whatever. And this song, somewhat of a ballad, is brilliant both lyrically and musically.

Sponge

Song: "Live Here Without You"
Artist: Sponge
Album: New Pop Sunday

This is one of those albums that I listen to and remember things about that time in my life...it was the early summer of 1999, and I had lots to be optimistic about. So this is a feel-good record for me, one that balances rock and pop and alternative edge all at the same time.

Steely Dan

Song: "Kid Charlemagne"
Artist: Steely Dan
Album: The Royal Scam

Steely Dan is like the musical equivalent of comfort food. Hearing their jazzy seventies flavored pop is instantly relaxing, at least to me. This is one of their mid-level hits and one of their best--funky, and with some great guitar work.

National Product

Song: "By All Means"
Artist: National Product
Album: Luna

This band is kind of new on the circuit, and they are like a combo of today's alternative/pop/punk and a bit of hair metal sound thrown in. The thing is, it really, really works because the band is solid, the singer is awesome and their songs are melodic and powerful.

The Silver Seas

Song: "The Country Life"
Artist: The Silver Seas
Album: High Society

This band, formerly known as The Bees, is f--ing awesome. I just got a copy of this album the other day, and cannot stop listening to it. Imagine a throwback combo of Jackson Browne, the Beach Boys and Van Morrison. Yeah, pretty impressive indeed.

Jared Campbell

Song: "Never Knew"
Artist: Jared Campbell
Album: Where It All Begins

This stunning 6-song EP by Binghamton, New York based singer/songwriter Jared Campbell is one of my favorite iTunes entries. He's released more music, and probably has gotten caught up in the glut of male singer/songwriters out there, but this EP is as good as anything John Mayer or Howie Day have put out.

If Only

Song: "If Only"
Artist: KT Tunstall
Album: Drastic Fantastic

This British singer/songwriter is a welcome newcomer in the pop world, and her new album, Drastic Fantastic, is even better than her awesome debut. This song is already enjoying "repeat" status in my player.

Lullaby

Song: "Lullaby"
Artist: Rogue Wave
Album: Asleep at Heaven's Gate

This band from Seattle is not exactly grunge, but has that lo-fi, quasi acoustic thing going on...and they do it great. This is from their new album, and it's as good as anything the band has ever released.

Mike Viola

Song: "Fall Back Down"
Artist: Mike Viola & the Candy Butchers
Album: Falling Into Place

Mike Viola is an exceptional singer and songwriter who hovered under the radar in the late 90s and early 00s. I think he's producing now, but I hope he's still writing and recording too. Quick trivia: Viola was also the voice of the title track from "That Thing You Do."

Keane

Song: "Hamburg Song"
Artist: Keane
Album: Under The Iron Sea

This British band came out of nowhere the last couple of years, and their sophomore album is even better than their awesome debut. This song is a piano ballad of sorts that is melancholy and powerful at the same time.

Billy Squier

Song: "In The Dark"
Artist: Billy Squier
Album: Don't Say No

This was Squier's breakout album, and this song with its distinctive keyboard riff is great on so many levels.....in addition to the keys, there are some screaming, crunching guitars and Billy's awesome rock vocal.

Trouble

Song: "Trouble"
Artist: Coldplay
Album: Parachutes

When Coldplay released their second album, they were everyone's "it" band, the band that every celebrity in Hollywood even was pimping. But their debut, Parachutes, was pretty damn good too--especially this moody, pretty song.

Tremolo

Song: "Promise Ring"
Artist: Tremolo
Album: Love Is The Greatest Revenge

This brooding, melodic alt-rock band came out a few years ago and reminds me of 90s band Dishwalla. Either way, this was a great album with some amazing songs. I'm not sure if the band is still making music (this was released in 2004), but if I find out I'll write another post about them.

The Clarks

Song: "Snowman"
Artist: The Clarks
Album: Between Now And Then

This Pittsburgh band continues to make music and has a great following in Pennsylvania and surrounding states. This is a band that never made it really big but has always deserved to have more fans than they actually do. Their music is catchy, fun, and well arranged, and if you haven't heard them yet, what are you waiting for?

Lucy Sustar

Song: "Chances"
Artist: Lucy Sustar
Album: Lucy Sustar

I met Lucy and her manager at a conference about a decade ago, and got a copy of her four song EP. I don't know what she's up to these days, but her music still has a spot in my iTunes. She's got a unique and compelling voice to go along with some nice songs.

Hall & Oates

Song: "She's Gone"
Artist: Hall & Oates
Album: Abandoned Luncheonette

They may be one of the greatest duos in music history, and this was Hall & Oates' first big hit, off their second album. Their harmonies are sugary sweet, but their knack for writing great songs is timeless...hence, the fact that they've been making music for all these years. Still, I have a soft spot for their early material.

Snow Patrol

Song: "Run"
Artist: Snow Patrol
Album: Final Straw

If you like brooding alternative rock, you'll love Snow Patrol. This song was from their debut album and it's pulsing, emotive and awesome. Snow Patrol's latest album is better than the debut, but this song is a good place to start if you're just becoming familiar with them.

Landon Pigg

Song: "Sailed On"
Artist: Landon Pigg
Album: This Is A Pigg--EP

Landon Pigg was supposed to be the next "it" singer/songwriter. So what happened? I don't know, other than there are still too many guys with guitars out there. But Pigg is really talented and this song is awesome.

Black Lexus

Song: "Black Lexus"
Artist: Joseph Arthur
Album: Nuclear Daydream

This singer/songwriter from Ohio is amazing...I mean, if the music industry wasn't so screwed up and radio wasn't all corrupt, this guy could be as big as anyone. But I'm just happy I know who he is and appreciate his music. This song from Arthur's latest album is one of his best yet.

Adia

Song: "Adia"
Artist: Sarah McLachlan
Album: Surfacing

You guys might question my manhood for this one, but I think this album is one of the most underrated singer/songwriter releases of the last decade. It's certainly Sarah's best.

Carly Hennessy

Song: "I Need A Little Love"
Artist: Carly Hennessy
Album: Ultimate High

If you wonder what ever happened to The New Radicals, who released one album in the late nineties, look no further than Carly Hennessy. Her producer, Gregg Alexander, was the front man for the Radicals, and he's got his paw prints all over this recent release. You can hear his backing vocals and his musical stylings throughout. And oh yeah, Carly herself has quite a set of pipes.

Child of Vision

Song: "Child of Vision"
Artist: Supertramp
Album: Breakfast In America

Odds are, you haven't heard this song unless you own Breakfast in America, truly one of the great albums of the late seventies. It's over seven minutes long, and features some great keyboard work and guitar-driven grooves....and of course, those sugary Supertramp harmonies.

ELP

Song: "From The Beginning"
Artist: Emerson, Lake and Palmer
Album: Trilogy

ELP wrote and performed this ethereal prog rock that was also melodic and at times extremely easy to listen to. That, and they were incredible musicians. This song was one of their more mainstream "hits"....and I remember learning it on guitar as a teenager and feeling like a stud.

Jackie Blue

Song: "Jackie Blue"
Artist: Ozark Mountain Daredevils
Album: It'll Shine When It Shines

Ozark Mountain Daredevils were more of a country rock band, or Southern rock...but this pop-leaning track was their first hit that still pretty much defines the band thirty-something years later. I'm not sure what it is about this song, but it's easily one of my favorites of all time.

Robbie Dupree

Song: "Hot Rod Hearts"
Artist: Robbie Dupree
Album: Robbie Dupree

Yeah, this one makes me a bit of a nerd.....because Robbie Dupree's cheesy-ish early 80s sound and sugary pop music pretty much signify a guilty pleasure. But it's so good that you can't help but like it. Go ahead...find me a catchier pop song.....especially one with such impressive guitar work.

Jag Star

Song: "Disguise"
Artist: Jag Star
Album: The Best Impression Of Sanity

This unsigned band from Knoxville, Tennessee sent me their album to review on Bullz-Eye.com recently. Keep an eye on them.....they remind me of that new-ish band Stefy from California, as well as maybe Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson and No Doubt rolled into one. They've got some really good songs, the key to success for any band.

The Feeling

Song: "Sewn"
Artist: The Feeling
Album: Twelve Stops & Home

This British band released their debut on Interscope Records earlier this year, and it's bordering on stunning. This is a really good band that writes great songs and should be more of a household name than they are right now. Time will tell, but do yourself a favor and check them out if you haven't already.

Best Friend

Song: "You're My Best Friend"
Artist: Queen
Album: A Night At The Opera

Queen is probably better known for songs that came later in their career, but this first single of theirs maintains the test of time because it's melodic as hell and has a great universal message: friendship. Not only that, Freddie Mercury sings his ass off, and Brian May adds some unbelievable harmony guitar parts. All in all, a true classic.

Marc Cohn

Song: "Walk Through The World"
Artist: Marc Cohn
Album: The Rainy Season

Marc Cohn is best known for his hit, "Walking In Memphis," but that certainly wasn't his only good song. A few years later, Cohn released this album and this song was the first single. It's not the greatest song ever, but it's good, catchy piano rock and features Cohn's smoky vocals.

The Background

Song: "The Background"
Artist: Third Eye Blind
Album: Third Eye Blind

The debut album from this California based rock band cemented them as one of the best bands of the late nineties, but they never quite equaled the magic of this particular release. Lead singer Stephen Jenkins started dating Vanessa Carlton and the cool factor of this band seemed to go up in smoke. But that doesn't mean this album isn't still magical. And in particular, once you get past the hits like "How's It Gonna Be?" and "Jumper" and "Semi-Charmed Life," you get to four songs at the end of the album that are so depressing and beautiful and powerful all at the same time, including this one.

Toto

Song: "Takin' It Back"
Artist: Toto
Album: Toto

I remember first hearing the song "Hold The Line" and being like, "Who IS this?" It was the late seventies, and I remember also having the same reaction when I heard "Roxanne" by The Police. Toto wasn't quite as groundbreaking as The P-men, but they were a bunch of incredible studio musicians who got together and formed a supergroup of sorts. This debut album has so many incredible songs, and this laid back, albeit slightly cheesy one, is a fave of mine.

Sleepsinging

Song: "Sleepsinging"
Artist: The Damnwells
Album: Bastards Of The Beat

I might be the biggest pimp for The Damnwells, one of my favorite bands out there now. So I'll fill you in again...this band is really, really good. Do yourself a favor and check them out.

Michael McDonald

Song: "No More Prayin'"
Artist: Michael McDonald
Album: Blink Of An Eye

Michael McDonald seems to have his vocal imprint on a lot of major songs released in the pop world. He's got one of the most unique and recognizable voices, but he's also a fantastic songwriter. This album that he released in the mid-nineties is probably underrated because you never really hear about it, but as far as I'm concerned it's his best work.

Martika

Song: "Toy Soldiers"
Artist: Martika
Album: Martika

Martika was pretty much a one-hit wonder, as this song was the only mild hit she had from her 1988 debut. Still, while it's a bit cheesy, it's one of those songs that I hear and it brings me back to where I was at the exact point in my life when it was on the radio. As I've said before, that's the real power of music.

Mystery Achievement

Song: "Mystery Achievement"
Artist: The Pretenders
Album: Pretenders

This was one of the first hits for Chrissy Hynde and company, and it's as timeless as when it was released like 25 years ago. The song has an infectious beat, Chrissy's signature growl, and a hook in the chorus that will make you want to jump on top of your car and dance. Great stuff.

The Midway State

Song: "Nobody Understands"
Artist: The Midway State
Album: Met A Man On Top Of The Hill EP

Chances are, you haven't heard about this young alt-rock band from Canada. But their debut four-song EP on Interscope is worth checking out, and will surely whet your appetite for a full length album if you like this sort of music. For my money, this brooding song is one of the best of 2007 so far.

Second Chance

Song: "Second Chance"
Artist: .38 Special
Album: Rock & Roll Strategy

This Southern rock band is better known for hits like "Hold On Loosely" or "Caught Up In You," but they had a bunch of more, under the radar, chart climbers like this one. It's a mid-tempo, pulsing track with incredible guitar work and a melancholy feel.

Film

Song: "Chemical Wonder"
Artist: Film
Album: Rolling EP

I can't remember how I found these guys a few years back, but I think they are from Atlanta and I think they are unsigned, if still together. Film combined elements of 70's arena rock with modern elements to create a really ballsy, raucous, yet melodic romp through six songs on this EP. If you can find it anywhere, grab it.

Zack Hexum

Song: "One Spin"
Artist: Zack Hexum
Album: The Story So Far

Multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter Zack Hexum is really talented. I had the chance to represent him a year ago and without a doubt expect him to have a long and prosperous career. It might be the bloodlines...Zack is the brother of 311 guitarist Nick Hexum....but it goes beyond that. Have a listen to this album, released in 2004, and you'll see what I mean. The songs are just catchy without sounding like everything else out there. Keep an eye on this guy.

Brian Setzer

Song: "The Knife Feels Like Justice"
Artist: Brian Setzer
Album: The Knife Feels Like Justice

At a time when his band, The Stray Cats, were pretty much on the top of the pop charts and the MTV world, front man Brian Setzer went and did a solo album. Unlike the rockabilly music his band had become known for, this was straight pop/rock, and while not groundbreaking, was as hooky as anything you'll ever hear. The title track is especially good and always will have a home on my all-time playlist.

The Wallflowers

Song: "Three Marlenas"
Artist: The Wallflowers
Album: Bringing Down The Horse

Jakob Dylan had big shoes to fill, since he is after all the son of the legendary Bob Dylan. But he never claimed to be his dad, and when the debut of his band, The Wallflowers, came out about 10 years ago, it was full of really great, rootsy pop/rock music like this song. Throw out the overplayed tracks like "Sixth Avenue Heartache" and "One Headlight," and this album is damn near a classic.

The Fray

Song: "Over My Head (Cable Car)"
Artist: The Fray
Album: How To Save A Life

Yeah, I know....this song has been so played out the last 18 months or so. But why they, can't I stop myself from wanting to listen to it? This is one of those magical songs that has the staying power of a track I never get sick of hearing. The Fray's debut made them instant VH-1 stars, and here's hoping they can follow it up with their next album.

Tumbling Dice

Song: "Tumbling Dice"
Artist: Rolling Stones
Album: Exile On Main St.

This band's catalog is just bottomless when it comes to great rock songs. They are, after all, one of the greatest rock bands of all-time. But this song to me is one that I never, ever get tired of listening to. And it's 35 years old!

Guster

Song: "Satellite"
Artist: Guster
Album: Ganging Up On The Sun

Guster is one of those pop/rock bands that has emerged in the last few years, and have had tremendous success on the college circuit. They haven't broken out as big as they could, but that isn't because they don't write songs that are catchy as hell, like this one.

Teitur

Song: "You're The Ocean"
Artist: Teitur
Album: Poetry And Aeroplanes

This singer/songwriter goes by his first name and is from the Faroe Islands (somewhere near Iceland I believe). Listen to Teitur sing, and you can understand him in perfect English. Not only that, he's got a gift for melody and songwriting, and his debut album from a few years back is one of the most underrated releases of the last 10 years.

Big Head Todd

Song: "Please Don't Tell Her"
Artist: Big Head Todd & The Monsters
Album: Beautiful World

Big Head Todd was one of those bands that came out in the mid-late nineties in the modern rock movement of that day. So they kind of got lost on the depth chart behind Hootie, Toad, Better Than Ezra, Matchbox 20 and the Goo Goo Dolls. But this is a stunning album that still sounds great today....I think the band is still making music, but in my opinion nothing has quite measured up to Beautiful World.

Jack's Mannequin

Song: "Rescued"
Artist: Jack's Mannequin
Album: Everything In Transit

Andrew McMahon goes under the moniker Jack's Mannequin when he's not fronting his band, Something Corporate, and this is the only album he's released under that name. The subject matter is kind of dark, as it was all written as McMahon was recovering from a bone marrow transplant after being diagnosed with cancer. But all that aside, this is one stunning record.

Speaking Tongues

Song: "Easy Come"
Artist: Speaking Tongues
Album: Eclectic Cafe

I have some songs in my iTunes that aren't typical of my musical taste. I reviewed the Eclectic Cafe album for Bullz-Eye.com recently and it's got a lot of trippy, semi-electronic music including this really cool song by Speaking Tongues. If you need a cool party album or want to impress your lady with your wide range of musical taste, go pick this one up.

Have I Told You Lately That Butch Walker Is The Man?

Song: "Far Away From Close"
Artist: Butch Walker
Album: Left of Self-Centered

I've probably blogged about this guy before, but it's worth mentioning again how talented Butch Walker is. After logging time with his band, Marvelous 3, Butch released this stunning solo record around 2000 and every song on it is as catchy as anything you'll ever hear. He also writes tongue-in-cheek lyrics with ease, and is just one of those cool rock star dudes. And oh yeah, he's a hell of a producer as well.

CSN

Song: "Long Time Gone"
Artist: Crosby, Stills, & Nash
Album: Crosby, Stills & Nash

Crosby, Stills & Nash, with or without Neil Young, make some of the sweetest harmonies known to man. The group's blend of rock, folk and bluesy coolness has transcended the test of time over the last few decades, but their early stuff is still their best. Maybe it was the drugs or the "now" factor of its day, but for three singer/songwriters banding together, these guys sure made some cool music like this. I still get goose bumps when I hear this song's harmonies.

Gavin DeGraw

Song: "Meaning"
Artist: Gavin DeGraw
Album: Chariot

DeGraw had two big hits on this album, the title track and "I Don't Wanna Be," but I think this song is the best one on a pretty deep album. Pop singer/songwriters are a dime a dozen lately, but DeGraw is talented enough to stand the test of time.

Jared Campbell

Song: "Found Again"
Artist Jared Campbell
Album: Where It All Begins

Jared Campbell is a young singer/songwriter from upstate New York who deserves to be on a major label. This was from an album he released independently a few years back, and it's an example of what a great songwriter Campbell is. Check him out if you have the chance.

So Slow

Song: "So Slow"
Artist: Ari Hest
Album: The Green Room Sessions

I think I've posted about Ari Hest before, but not about this EP release that came out a little bit before his newer full-length album. The Green Room Sessions was a project Hest recorded in his Brooklyn apartment, and though it doesn't quite measure up to either of his LPs, it's got some great tracks like this one on it.

Car Crash

Song: "Car Crash"
Artist: Matt Nathanson
Album: Some Mad Hope

With apologies to Matt's publicist and label, I'm writing about this because I received an advance of his new album that is due out August 14. I'm sure they won't mind that I say that this may be Nathanson's best effort yet. If you haven't heard him yet but like stuff along the lines of Toad the Wet Sprocket or John Mayer, go grab this....on August 14.

Go West

Song: "What You Won't Do For Love"
Artist: Go West
Album: Indian Summer

I think I've blogged about these guys already, and if I haven't, they are a British pop duo that broke out in the mid-80s under the alternative rock umbrella, somehow mixed keys, screaming guitars and horns with smooth and melodic vocals. Then a few years later, they got soft. In particular, Go West had their breakthrough with a hit song on the "Pretty Woman" soundtrack, "The King Of Wishful Thinking." I won't berate them though, because while getting soft they also did this classic Bobby Caldwell cover, and it's even better than the original.

Stacy's Mom

Song: "Stacy's Mom"
Artist: Fountains of Wayne
Album: Welcome Interstate Managers

Fountains of Wayne can write pop hooks in their sleep, and this was their breakout song a few years ago. Of course, the subject matter and related video didn't hurt their chances for this to be a hit. But you don't write a hit without a strong melody that sticks in your head for days, and this song has it.

Don't Look Back

Song: "Don't Look Back"
Artist: Boston
Album: Don't Look Back

Boston's follow-up album was almost as strong as its incredibly successful debut, and this was the title track. It had the same swirling guitars (and guitar harmonies) and sweet vocal harmonies (which, by the way, they couldn't reproduce live at all), and some really catchy melodies. After this album, the band didn't release another until eight years later.

The Push Stars

Song: "All I Wanted"
Artist: The Push Stars
Album: Opening Time

Chris Trapper's band, The Push Stars, has flown under the radar for a long time. But the interesting, melodic songs and Trapper's gruff-yet-easy-on-the-ears vocals make for a great musical formula. Opening Time is one of their best albums, and a good start if you are just being turned on to this band.

The Juleps

Song: "If Wishes Were Horses"
Artist: The Juleps
Album: Kickbutt City U.S.A.

My friend Dave and I discovered a great band in Chicago around 1987 called The Insiders, and this was an offshoot of that band that I only recently found out about. This guy has such a great voice and this song is better than most of the songs coming out of Nashville today.

Since I've Been Loving You

Song: "Since I've Been Loving You"
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Album: Led Zeppelin III

This is one of the more underappreciated Zep albums, but it's one of the best. This epic, bluesy song features some of Jimmy Page's best guitar work, ever. I seriously could listen to him play all day. I'm also a publicist repping a really cool all-female Led Zep tribute band, Lez Zeppelin, and they just released their debut album with this song on it. Check them out at http://www.lezzeppelin.com/

Divinyls

Song: "Pleasure and Pain"
Artist: The Divinyls
Album: The Divinyls: Essential

I'm not really sure which album this song was originally on, because AMG doesn't show the individual songs listed for this Aussie band's first few albums (in the eighties). But I know one thing..lead singer Christina Amphlett is sexy and has an awesome set of pipes, and this song is catchy as hell too.

Mark Selby

Song: "If The World Was Mine"
Artist: Mark Selby
Album: Dirt

Mark Selby is a Nashville songwriter that has written hits for the likes of Trisha Yearwood and the Dixie Chicks, but this was a bluesy solo effort he put out a few years back. I've seen him play here in Nashville songwriting rounds.....he's not only a fantastic writer, but performs and sings better than many country artists out there today.

Atlanta Rhythm Section

Song: "So Into You"
Artist: Atlanta Rhythm Section
Album: Atlanta Rhythm Section

Yeah, I grew up in the seventies, so I'm creeping into middle age. And one of the signature bands from that era that never really got the props they deserved was the Atlanta Rhythm Section, with their mix of pop, southern rock and funk. Well, I'm giving them their props here, and quite honestly, this was one of the best songs of the entire decade.

Jonathan Rice

Song: "So Sweet"
Artist: Jonathan Rice
Album: Music From The O.C. Mix 2

I never watched a single episode of "The O.C." but I have heard every soundtrack produced by the show. And the show did help break some bigger name acts. But this under the radar singer and songwriter never seemed to emerge like he should have, because this song freaking rocks.

Illbreak

Song: "Underneath The Shadows"
Artist: Illbreak
Album: The Flood

I had the pleasure of representing this Atlanta alt-rock band a couple of years ago, and they were on the label started by 3 Doors Down bassist Todd Harrell. Unfortunately the offices of the label were based in Biloxi, MS, and the album was due to be released right as Hurricane Katrina hit. So this album never got its due. But I've got the songs in my catalog, and I'm telling you, this band could still be huge if they wanted to be.

Jill Cunniff

Song: "Lazy Girls"
Artist: Jill Cunniff
Album: City Beach

The former front person for the band Luscious Jackson recently released her first solo effort, and it is downright stunning. Jill Cunniff has a penchant for melodies and arrangements that make the songs come to life in a big way, and it's just plain good.

Bigger Than My Body

Song: "Bigger Than My Body"
Artist: John Mayer
Album: Heavier Things

John Mayer is one hell of a songwriter and musician, but he gets disrespected too much by the male population. That's because he's doing Jessica Simpson and you're not. Still, Mayer deserves props and I'm going to give them to him. Heavier Things is a solid album and this song is one of the best on it.

Bush

Song: "Little Things"
Artist: Bush
Album: Sixteen Stone

Bush was one of the bands that defined the nineties with its signature grunge-y sound. But these guys were British, not from Seattle, and that's one of the things that made them interesting. That, and they fucking rocked. Sixteen Stone was their powerful debut, and this song is one of the best on the album.

Animals

Song: "Pigs (Three Different Ones)"
Artist: Pink Floyd
Album: Animals

This was actually one of the first albums I ever owned, and I recently purchased the whole thing on iTunes. A concept album with songs about dogs, pigs and sheep, I still think this is one of Pink Floyd's best works ever. The guitar work in particular is stellar.

Freeze Tag

Song: "Freeze Tag"
Artist: Suzanne Vega
Album: Suzanne Vega

This was Vega's debut album, and it's so beautifully dark and haunting 20 or so years later. On this song in particular, you can almost feel your fingers and toes getting cold in the winter air, and feel the sun setting on a January day....proof that Vega has a songwriting gift.

"Inside"

Song: "Inside"
Artist: Toad The Wet Sprocket
Album: Dulcinea

Yeah, you already know that Duclinea is one of my favorite albums of all-time. And the whole album is in my iTunes, so it's no surprise that I'm mentioning another song from it. This song is one of the last tracks on the record, and it is worth checking out for the guitar tones alone. Toad just made magic and this is an example of it.

Pat Benatar

Song: "Tell Me"
Artist: Pat Benatar
Album: Go

Pat Benatar is one of the original rocker chicks from a few decades ago, and this was a more recent offering of hers. Pat and husband Neil Geraldo are still out their touring and making music, and still sounding great doing it.

Seafood

Song: "Signal Sparks"
Artist: Seafood
Album: Paper Crown King

Blech. I don't like seafood. But I sure like this band a hell of a lot. They are a British indie/alt-rock band that is still flying somewhat under everyone's radar. But their latest album, Paper Crown King, is their best effort yet. Their songs soar like, um, flying fish, or something. Oh, that was bad. Anyway, go check these guys out.

Megan Slankard

Song: "Dirty Wings"
Artist: Megan Slankard
Album: Freaky Little Story

I have had the pleasure of working with Megan as her publicist, whose claim to fame was a makeover on TLC's What Not To Wear. Over the last few years, she's remained just slightly under the radar, but if you hear some of her songs you'll be scratching your head wondering why she's not yet a household name. She's still in her early 20's though, so has time on her side.

The Romantics

Song: "Talking In Your Sleep"
Artist: The Romantics
Album: In Heat

Everyone thinks of the frat house, dance floor classic "What I Like About You" when they think of The Romantics. But this song had some chart life as well, and its haunting melodies and slick arrangements sound just as good today as they did almost 25 years ago.

Pete Yorn

Song: "All At Once"
Artist: Pete Yorn
Album: Day I Forgot

Most people are familiar with Pete Yorn from his debut, Musicforthemorningafter. But he's put out some stellar material since then, including the very much under the radar sophomore album, Day I Forgot. For my money, this particular song from that album is one of Pete's best.

Joe Jackson

Song: "It's Different For Girls"
Artist: Joe Jackson
Album: I'm The Man

The album title says it all...Joe Jackson is "the man." With his first two albums, Jackson had carved out a distinctive intelligent pop meets alternative meets punk sound in a way that no one else had before. In fact, both I'm the Man and Look Sharp! may be two of the most underrated albums in the history of music.

The Green Album

Song: "Crab"
Artist: Weezer
Album: The Green Album

Rock band Weezer had a bit of a comeback with their Green album, released in the early part of the decade. This album is so melodic and hooky, it really should have its rightful place among some of the greatest rock records ever. At least in my mind it should.

Tell Me To My Face

Song: "Tell Me To My Face"
Artist: Dan Fogelberg & Tim Weisberg
Album: Twin Sons of Different Mothers

You probably know Dan Fogelberg as the dude who put out lots of sappy love songs in the seventies and eighties, but this album he did with flute player Tim Weisberg was a bit under the radar when it came out about, well, 30 years ago. But it had some great songs, including this epic seven minute track.

Sullivan Street

Song: "Sullivan Street"
Artist: Counting Crows
Album: August and Everything After

This is one of my favorite songs on one of my favorite albums of all-time. Counting Crows' debut is arguably their best, and every song on it has an acoustic vibe that helps singer Adam Duritz paint vivid pictures with his lyrics and super cool voice.

Saving Jane's New Album

Song: "Nicotine"
Artist: Saving Jane
Album: One Girl Revolution

Saving Jane burst onto the scene a few years ago with the Girl Next Door album, and lead singer Marti Dodson was touted as the next hottie in rock. Now, they are back with One Girl Revolution, and for my money it's even better than the first record---hooky, more rocking and just great stuff. Check them out if you haven't yet.

Apollo Up!

Song: "Custom Critical"
Artist: Apollo Up!
Album: Chariots of Fire

This Nashville indie rock band makes music the way a rock band should--raw, energetic, hooky and loud. Only a three piece, Apollo Up! has been said to be like "Elvis Costello fronting Gang of Four," and that's pretty accurate because lead singer Jay Phillips sounds almost exactly like Costello in his heyday. Great band, great album.

Gemma Hayes

Song: "Hangin' Around"
Artist: Gemma Hayes
Album: Night On My Side

Singer and songwriter Gemma Hayes has this hot edgy thing going on, in addition to having Lilith Fair-like melodies, and it all works beautifully. Hayes is an Irish hottie and this was her debut album, and I'm telling you, you have to check it out, if only because the songs are just really, really good.

Reddding

Song: "Gleam"
Artist: Redding
Album: Redding

The debut from this rock band is really cool, and this is one of the best songs on it. It's moody alt-rock-pop with some strong melodies and hooks, and well worth checking out if you haven't already.

Vertical Horizon

Song: "Finding Me"
Artist: Vertical Horizon
Album: Everything You Want

When my band was playing the club and festival circuit in Ohio around 1999, a fan tipped me off to this band called Vertical Horizon and said we reminded him of them. I picked up their newest album at the time, Everything You Want, and it blew me away. The band was more acoustic-based before this album, so this was somewhat of a breakthrough for them, and it spawned a few modest hits as well.

Ari is Awesome

Song: "Consistency"
Artist: Ari Hest
Album: Someone To Tell

The debut major label album from New York based singer/songwriter Ari Hest is full of throaty, hooky songs, but this one in particular shows that dude can also play the guitar like a madman. If you're not hip to Ari, everything he's released is well worth checking out including a new album, The Break-In.

Only Time Will Tell

Song: "Only Time Will Tell"
Artist: Asia
Album: Asia

The self-titled debut from this supergroup of sorts was "progressive" yet had pop sensibility. Seriously, only a so-called supergroup could pull that off. Led by John Wetton and Geoff Downes, and with former yes guitar player Steve Howe and ELP's Carl Palmer on drums, this debut album was full of great songs that still sound great today.

Little Things

Song: "Little Things"
Artist Matthew Ryan
Album: Regret Over The Wires

Singer/songwriter Matthew Ryan has flown under the radar for about a decade now, but that doesn't mean he's not awesome at what he does. He's got a smoky bar room voice and knows how to write songs with raw emotion like few songwriters can. And when dude wants to rock, like he does on this song, he's simply one of the best lesser known artists out there.

Aja

Song: "Josie"
Artist: Steely Dan
Album: Aja

Steely Dan is a classic band and one of the most distinguishable in any genre of music. But their jazz and soul-infused pop/rock is much more than that. It's thinking man's music, yet it's extremely palatable to anyone who digs straight pop. And in that lies the genius of Walter Becker and Donald Fagen. Aja was probably the pinnacle of their career, and it still remains one of the greatest albums of all-time.

Jay Johnson

Song: "Sympathy For The Skeptical"
Artist: Jay Johnson Band
Album: Yellow

When I moved to Nashville almost four years ago, I became friends with a guy who was a singer/songwriter like me, but not country, like me. Jay Johnson isn't recording anything that I know of right now, but he should be because his stuff is that good....check him out online if you have a chance...he's got a Travis meets Jeff Buckley meets Glen Phillips thing going on, and it's awesome.

Jackson Browne

Song: "Here Come Those Tears Again"
Artist: Jackson Browne
Album: The Pretender

Jackson Browne is one of the greatest American singer/songwriters ever, and he never really seems to get the props he deserves. He's getting it here. The Pretender is such a stellar album, and this song as well as the title track have resonated for like 30 years now. Unbelievable.

New Maroon 5

Song: "Better That We Break"
Artist: Maroon 5
Album: It Won't Be Soon Before Long

Granted, this album has only been out a week, but it may be even better than the band's amazing debut. Maroon 5 has taken their time to craft a sophomore effort of really great songs, and this ballad has to rank up their with anything they have done. Before it's done, this album is going to break a lot of records and win these guys many more awards.

Saturday In the Park

Song: "Saturday In The Park"
Artist: Chicago
Album: Chicago V

Chicago has been around for what seems like forever, and some of their old stuff is so amazing and timeless. This song is such a definitive summer song, you can picture the whole scene vividly. And the opening piano riff is one of the most recognizable in rock history.

The Sheila Divine

Song: "Automatic Buffalo"
Artist: The Sheila Divine
Album: New Parade

I was driving from Cleveland to Cincinnati and back with my manager about seven years ago, and he was turning me on to some really cool indie music. The Sheila Divine's New Parade was played over and over again, and we never tired of it. I still never tire of it, and it may be one of my favorite albums ever.

Carole King

Song: "It's Too Late"
Artist: Carole King
Album: Tapestry

It doesn't matter how old you are, Carole King is one of the greatest songwriters of the last forty years and she has earned that distinction. Tapestry was her breakthrough album, and it's as timeless today as it was in the early 70s. The woman has a gift for melody that few have, and has written songs for a multitude of other artists including James Taylor.

The Damnwells Freakin Rock

Song: "Accidental Man"
Artist: The Damnwells
Album: Air Stereo

I posted about these guys back in February, and last night I got to see them live for the first time. Holy, holy shit. The Damnwells are so good, it blows my mind that they're not huge. The Air Stereo album is a 90 mile an hour romp down the freeway with a few short stops for fuel. Seriously people, you need to hear these guys......

The Fixx

Song: "Red Skies"
Artist: The Fixx
Album: Shuttered Room

This was the MTV-era band's first single, and it had the synth-pop British New Wave sound down to a teel. Wailing vocals, larger-than-life synthesizers, chiming guitars and large fake-sounding drums contributed to The Fixx's sound, and it was good. This is still a great song 25 years later.

New Radicals

Song: "Someday We'll Know"
Artist: New Radicals
Album: Maybe You've Been Brainwashed Too

Only around for one album, the New Radicals hit the music scene in 1998 with one of the greatest albums ever, period. Front man Gregg Alexander was, and is, a bit odd....but there's no denying he's brilliant when it comes to creating songs. This entire album never gets old, and this stunning track is one of the best on it.

Windmills

Song: "Windmills"
Artist: Toad The Wet Sprocket
Album: Dulcinea

I think this is my second post on Toad, but they have been one of my favorite bands for a long time, and Dulcinea is one of my favorite albums. This song is timeless and riveting no matter how many times I listen to it.

The Red Elvises

Song: "El Nino"
Artist: The Red Elvises
Album: Surfing With Joe

The Red Elvises are an independent rock band from Los Angeles by way of Russia. They play really fun, energetic surf rock with a twist of comedy. Really, these guys are one of the most entertaining bands I've ever seen. Catch them if they come to your town.

Spyro Gyra

Song: "Tuesday"
Artist: Spyro Gyra
Album: Wrapped In A Dream

Everyone should have some smooth jazz in their own catalog. I have just enough to make a few Sunday morning mixes, and some of the best is by this band that has been around for a couple of decades.

Steve Winwood

Song: "While You See A Chance"
Artist: Steve Winwood
Album: Arc Of A Diver

My iTunes is full of classic rock songs, but some of them are more "timeless" than others. Steve Winwood, who was in the band Traffic in the 60s and later had a ton of success as a solo artist, has one of the more distinctive voices in rock. And his songs are also distinctive. This track, with its trademark keyboard riffs, is one of Winwood's best.

Getaway Car

Song: "Madeleine"
Artist: The Getaway Car
Album: All Your Little Pieces

This band used to be called The Excentrics, and never really achieved the success they deserved. They re-formed under The Getaway Car, and are still toiling in relative obscurity. These songs are some of the most melodic, heartfelt songs that you'll ever hear from an unsigned artist.

Simple Minds

Song: "Oh Jungleland"
Artist: Simple Minds
Album: Once Upon A Time

They are mostly known for the hit, "Don't You (Forget About Me)," but Jim Kerr and Simple Minds had some really great songs to go alongside that single. This was one of them. Simple Minds most closely resembled INXS back in the day, and could really bring the rock without ever trying too hard.

Pamela

Song: "Pamela"
Artist: Toto
Album: The Seventh One

Toto was a supergroup of sorts, since it began as a bunch of studio musicians getting together to write and perform. And they had some monster hits in the late seventies and early eighties. On this album, the lead song, "Pamela," is one that has to grow on you. But once it does, it cements its own place among the band's best work.

Jimmy Eat World

Song: "Bleed American"
Artist: Jimmy Eat World
Album: Bleed American

Jimmy Eat World rose fromt that emo/indie rock world a few years back and with this polished major label release, they cemented their place in complete and utter coolness. But more than that, this title track rocks with a fury that few rock songs ever have.

Elvin Bishop

Song: "Fooled Around And Fell In Love"
Artist: Elvin Bishop
Album: Struttin' My Stuff

This was a big hitfrom the mid-seventies, and it's got a really great bluesy pop vibe. But in addition the mad skills of Bishop on lead guitar, this was the coming out party for lead singer Mickey Thomas, who went on to Starship fame a decade later. Hands down, this is one of my favorite songs of all-time.

The Southland

Song: "Shadow"
Artist: The Southland
Album: The Influence of Geography

I became hip to this band at South By Southwest in 2006, as one of their songs was on a sampler. And then I went and downloaded most of the rest of the album. It's intelligent altern-pop, and the kind of songs you can listen to about 500 times and never tire of. This particular track is played about as much as any in my entire iTunes.

Cary Brothers

Song: "Ride"
Artist: Cary Brothers
Album: Who You Are

Nashville native Cary Brothers is not a twangy Southern boy. In fact, he's more of a brooding, alt-rock kind of guy. You may remember Brothers from the song, "Blue Eyes," that he placed on the "Garden State" soundtrack. And his latest album, Who You Are, is stunning. There really isn't a bad track on it and you should go pick it up, now.

Lynyrd Skynyrd

Song: "That Smell"
Artist: Lynyrd Skynyrd
Album: Street Survivors

Just before the horrible plane crash in the late seventies that claimed the lives of three members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, including lead singer Ronnie Van Zandt, they had released their best album to date, Street Survivors. The album had the whole band on the cover surrounded by flames, and after the plane crash the album jacket was reprinted without the flames. The band is still together and has had various re-formations, but it was never really the same after the crash.

Matt Nathanson

Song: "Sing Me Sweet"
Artist: Matt Nathanson
Album: Beneath These Fireworks

Matt Nathanson is one among a whole bunch of singer/songwriters with full bands that burst onto the music scene a few years ago, creating somewhat of a glut. So while Nathanson's music kind of got buried beneath Gavin DeGraw, Ari Hest and Michael Tolcher, his stuff is really good and shouldn't be ignored. He has another one coming out soon, but if you haven't heard this album yet, you should--it's full of good songs.

Lisa Papineau

Song: "Power and Glory Part 1"
Artist: Lisa Papineau
Album: Lisa Papineau

The stunning debut from this electro-pop artist is, well, stunning. I mean, this album was one of my faves of 2006, with not a bad track on it. Lisa has a smooth, sexy voice and her music is cool, catchy and incredibly well-arranged and produced all at the same time. If you haven't heard of Lisa, you need to check out her music.

Buddy Holly

Song: "Everyday"
Artist: Buddy Holly
Album: Buddy Holly

Every music collection should have some of the rock and roll greats, the ones who started it all. Buddy Holly falls into that category, and unfortunately his life was cut short by a plane crash. But his music still lives on, and this song is one of his best. Holly was also proof that you can look like a nerd and still rock out.

Marshall Crenshaw

Song: "Maryanne:
Artist: Marshall Crenshaw
Album: Marshall Crenshaw

He wrote some really great, melodic songs with nothing but one jangly guitar, bass and drums to back up his vocals...oh, and some really sweet harmonies. Crenshaw is still releasing music, but nothing compares to his first few albums back in the early 80s.

Daughtry

Song: "Breakdown"
Artist: Daughtry
Album: Daughtry

This guy really should have won "American Idol" last year, because he's got a great voice and his album is selling like nobody's business....way better than top 3 Taylor Hicks, Catherine McPhee and Elliott Yamin. Maybe it's because his AOR style fits a radio format better than any of the others' music, or maybe it's because he's just that much better and everyone knows it now. Either way, it's a great debut by Mr. Daughtry and he's going to have a nice, long career.

Def Leppard

Song: "Rock Brigade"
Artist: Def Leppard
Album: On Through The Night

When I was in high school, I had a band. We thought we were the shit. Then this debut from British rock band Def Leppard came out, and it was like, right then and there, I knew my future as a rock star had taken a serious blow. This was a band that was so far ahead of its time, and they were the same age as me! Anyway, this song was the lead track on their first album, and it's still one of my favorites, especially now that I can appreciate the fact that Def Leppard was always better than my band.

Nine Days

Song: "So Far Away"
Artist: Nine Days
Album: The Madding Crowd

This band from Long Island had a short-lived major label career, and this was their breakthrough album that spawned the single "Story of a Girl." I kind of hated that song with a passion, but the rest of this album is really great.

Malibu

Song: "Malibu"
Artist: Hole
Album: Celebrity Skin

Courtney Love is known mainly for one thing: being married to Kurt Cobain, and for generally acting kind of, well, slutty. But she never gets enough credit for being a really great singer and songwriter. But this album from her band Hole, released in the late nineties, proves that Love is all that. It's just a great rock album with equally great songs.

Saul Zonana

Song: "Painkiller"
Artist: Saul Zonana
Album: Waves

A prolific singer and songwriter from the New York area, Saul Zonana has put out some of the catchiest music of anyone never to make it really big. His songs are so melodic and engaging, and he seems to put out something new almost annually. This 6-song effort from a few years ago is one of his best efforts, and this song is mesmerizing.

Henry Lee Summer

Song: "I Know How You Feel"
Artist: Henry Lee Summer
Album: Henry Lee Summer

What ever happened to this guy? Henry Lee Summer had a modest hit from his debut album, "I Wish I Had A Girl," but that wasn't the best song on the album. This was a deep album with some really great tunes, including this pulsing number that showed off dude's incredible voice.
When I find out what he's up to these days I'll get back to you all.

Running From Dharma

Song: "After The Fall"
Artist: Running From Dharma
Album: If We Don't Meet Before The End Of The World

I'll admit that I don't like long album names. But that doesn't mean I can't like a song from said album. And that's the case with Running From Dharma's "After The Fall." There is an indie charm about this band.....they're not quite pop/punk but a bit too melodic to be pure indie rock. What they remind me of is Wire Train from the mid-80s but with just enough screaming in the song to make them sound current. That, and the guitar work is phenomenal.

ZOX

Song: "Don't Look Down"
Artist: ZOX
Album: The Wait

ZOX is one of those indie college rock type bands from the Northeast that has a large and growing following. Their latest album is really stellar, but this song in particular just rocks....and it's got a bit of a Celtic feel with some electric violin parts, making it different than most rock songs you'll hear on the radio these days.

Good Day

Song: "Good Day"
Artist: Paul Westerberg
Album: Eventually

The front man for The Replacements showed with this song that he can scale things back to a simple piano/vocal track, and make it sound as cool as anything he did with a full band rocking behind him. Westerberg, in my opinion, has one of the top 5 voices in rock, whether he's emoting or just letting a melody work the magic. And this is one of his best songs as a Replacement or otherwise.

Hurry Sundown

Song: "Hurry Sundown"
Artist: The Outlaws
Album: Hurry Sundown

When I was a high school kid and picked up the guitar, soon after this Southern rock band The Outlaws, known as the "Florida Guitar Army," became idols of mine. They had three lead guitarists who could all sing, and they intertwined vocal harmonies and guitar harmonies with equal precision. Not only that, but these guys could write great songs that today's country music stars couldn't touch with a ten foot pole.

Non-Toxic

Song: "Non-Toxic"
Artist: SR-71
Album: Now You See Inside

SR-71 was one of those melodic rock bands that was mildly successful at the turn of the century, along with the likes of Butch Walker's Marvelous 3 and Tonic. Their debut album had some really great songs on it including this one, and I'm pretty sure the band is still together but not playing very much.

Quarterflash

Song: "Harden My Heart"
Artist: Quarterflash
Album: Quarterflash

When Quarterflash burst onto the scene in 1981, it was like listening to a clone of Pat Benatar. Rindy Ross was a rocker chick like Benatar, but also brought a soft falsetto to the table that differentiated her. Either way, this was a powerful debut album, and one the band never really equaled. There is a ton of great guitar and sax work on the record, but especially on this song.

Witchy Woman

Song: "Witchy Woman"
Artist: The Eagles
Album: The Eagles

This song was one of The Eagles' first hits, from their first album. After that, their career really took off, but the guitar-driven edge of this song and especially in Don Henley's raspy voice make it one of their best tunes ever. There is a great guitar solo in the song as well.

Everything Or Nothing Again

Song: "Everything Or Nothing Again"
Artist: Gooding
Album: Angel/Devil

I had the privilege of working as the PR rep for this band, fronted by young guitar wizard Steve Gooding. The band had a bombastic style that mixed prog rock, arena rock, and any genre featuring a bands' guitar player. Gooding himself is a really talented singer and songwriter, but his mad skills on the guitar put him a notch above almost any unsigned artist out there. Unfortunately the band split up recently, but I'm sure Steve will continue to make music in some capacity.

Love Walks In

Song: "Love Walks In"
Artist: Van Halen
Album: 5150

This is not your typical Van Halen song. In what was the first album the band recorded with Sammy Hagar as its lead singer, 5150 was a changing of the guard and a changing of the band's overall sound. But more than anything, with a "ballad" like this, Hagar really opened up the scope of Van Halen's music, and showed a side to them that simply didn't exist before. And, oh yeah, the song is really good.

Elizabeth Ziman

Song: "Right Next To You"
Artist: Elizabeth Ziman
Album: Elizabeth & The Catapult

This is a jazzy pop artist with a velvety voice and if you haven't heard her yet, you need to. She's a New Yorker and not yet signed to a major label, but if you like Norah Jones, Suzanne Vega or Jill Cunniff, grab this record now and thank me later. More than just the voice, Ziman's songwriting is stellar.

Sour Girl

Song: "Sour Girl"
Artist: Stone Temple Pilots
Album: Thank You

This was not your typical grunge-type song from this grunge band. And that's what makes it such a great song. It's melodic, poppy and shows a different side to lead singer Scott Weiland, who actually sings normally and not like he has a pickle in his mouth.

Loverboy

Song: "The Kid Is Hot Tonite"
Artist: Loverboy
Album: Loverboy

Though they now are practically made fun of for being a cheesy 80s band, Loverboy knew how to rock in their day. In a time when new wave was hitting, there was still a place for good pop/rock bands like Loverboy and Journey. Mike Reno had a great rock voice and this band knew how to crank out hit songs.

Every Kinda People

Song: "Every Kinda People"
Artist: Robert Palmer
Album: Double Fun

Robert Palmer is best remembered for his "Addicted To Love" video in which he looked all dapper and got to dance with scantily clad hot chicks. But that doesn't show the depth of Palmer's catalog, because he had lots of great songs even before that, including this one, which is a soulful pop song with R&B flavors ala Marvin Gaye.

Mrs. Rita

Song: "Mrs. Rita"
Artist: Gin Blossoms
Album: New Miserable Experience

This was a great pop/rock album, but unfortunately for the Gin Blossoms, they broke out right in the middle of the grunge movement. That meant they were lumped with bands like Hootie & The Blowfish for not being as cool as the Nirvanas, Pearl Jams and Soundgardens of the world. But man, could they craft great songs. In my opinion, this album is still their best.

Overkill

Song: "Overkill"
Artist: Men At Work
Album: Cargo

I don't think there is a single song that feels like spring to me more than this Men At Work song. When it came out in 1983, I remember feeling the warmth of spring in the air and how this song fit that mood. Actually, it's pretty close to a perfect pop song, period.

Overkill

Song: "Overkill"
Artist: Men At Work
Album: Cargo

I don't think there is a single song that feels like spring to me than this Men At Work song. When it came out in 1983, I remember feeling the warmth of spring in the air and how this song fit that mood. Actually, it's pretty close to a perfect pop song, period.

Perfect Blue Buildings

Song: "Perfect Blue Buildings"
Artist: Counting Crows
Album: August and Everything After

I don't know what it is about Counting Crows, but they were one of those bands I was drawn to right from the start, with a mix of brooding, alt-pop that is the perfect backdrop for Adam Duritz' bright tenor vocals and some really cool arrangements. The band's first album, August and Everything After, was more stripped down and acoustic-driven than their later releases, and that's what makes it so special.

Something's Missing

Song: "Something's Missing"
Artist: John Mayer
Album: Heavier Things

Most guys think John Mayer is a wussy tool. I'm not one of those guys. This dude has mad skills as a singer, songwriter and guitar player--and he's doing Jessica Simpson. It's safe to say all those calling Mayer a tool are jealous. This album may be my favorite of his, and this is my favorite song on the album. The whole song is incredibly airy, and the guitar work has a retro feel akin to Hall & Oates' H2O album.

Bahia Funk

Song: "Bahia Funk"
Artist: Lee Ritenour
Album: Color Rit

Jazz guitarist Lee Ritenour is about as tasty a player as they come. As a former co-worker once said to me, "Lee Ritenour is RIGHT ON THE MONEY." Well said, big George. This song is a prime example of that, and flows like a smooth jazz song should without sounding like everything else in the genre.

Shine

Song: "Shine"
Artist: Patty Smyth
Album: Patty Smyth

The former lead singer of Scandal broke away for her first solo album in 1992 and it's a damn stellar effort. Unlike the Scandal sound, which was very guitar-driven and raw, this one focuses more on Patty's growl and pure vocal ability as well as some really slick production. And this song is probably my favorite of anything she's ever done.

Wooden Ships

Song: "Wooden Ships"
Artist: Crosby, Stills, & Nash
Album: Crosby, Stills & Nash

Vocally, these guys and their harmonies with or without Neil Young were always mind-boggling. But in some of this older material, it's also the guitar playing that stands out to me. I don't even know who gets credit for the guitar solos running rampant throughout this song, but I haven't heard tastier playing in many other places. This song is a classic.

Everything Is Gonna Be Okay

Song: "Tell It Like It Is"
Artist: Heart
Album: Heart: Greatest Hits

Like my wife says when she hears the band Heart, "Everything is Gonna Be Okay." She has been a fan of the band forever, and it just seems that when she hears them on the radio or anywhere, the day's events turn out favorably. I can't explain it, but I do know that by association I feel like everything is gonna be fine when we hear Heart. And why not? This band just kicks ass and always has. The Wilson sisters rule.

The Argument

Song: "Wheelchair"
Artist: The Argument
Album: Your New Favorite Band

This was a mildly successful regional band (from West Virginia) that I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with a few times. But more than that, I thought their first album was amazing, and I still listen to it with regularity about six years later. Lead singer and songwriter Scott Simons played a mean piano and sang his ass off...and actually all of these guys were incredibly gifted musicians. It's just too bad they never broke out like they deserved to, though Simons is still writing and working on a solo career.

Dazed and Confused

Song: "Dazed and Confused"
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Album: Led Zeppelin

This was one of the first songs Led Zeppelin recorded before going on to mega-stardom. It sums up the band too--bluesy guitar playing, sings and screams from Robert Plant, and bombastic noise from John Bonham and John Paul Jones. Was this one of the greatest rock bands of all time or what? I was obsessed with them growing up and it's just too bad Bonham passed on because I'm convinced they would still be touring today.

Sara Smile

Song: "Sara Smile"
Artist: Hall & Oates
Album: Darryl Hall & John Oates

Hall & Oates are one of the most recognizable duos in music history, along with the likes of Simon & Garfunkel. And they are still making music together. Hall & Oates have undergone changes with the times, but some of their oldest stuff is still their most timeless, and this song is, in my opinion, their best.

Hopeless

Song: "Hopeless"
Artist: Train
Album: Drops of Jupiter

This band camed out of the Aware Records camp and became overnight sensations with two hits--"Meet Virginia" and "Drops of Jupiter." It's safe to say the songwriters in this band are set for a while financially. But the album Drops of Jupiter was really deep and featured some incredible songs that didn't make it to the airwaves. This song still floors me like 5 years later.

Wank

Song: "Paranoid"
Artist: Wank
Album: Get a Grip On Yourself

This band name is really funny, but once you get past that, they were (maybe still are, I don't know) just a really good rock band. If you can imagine a cross between Green Day, Weezer, and Smash Mouth, you've got Wank in a nutshell. This whole album is really good too, so if you find it in a bargain bin, grab it. Unless the above mentioned bands are not your thing, of course.

Edwin

Song: "Wish In This World"
Artist: Edwin McCain
Album: Messenger

His voice is as recognizable in pop music as anyone's in the last ten years, and for good reason. He's got a killer voice and he writes incredible songs. But this 1999 release was Edwin McCain's best in my opinion. It's got it all...edgy songs like this and acoustic based songs to make the girls cry. And for a guy who gets so much play on lite rock stations, he's still remains cooler than all his peers.

California Angels

Song: "California Angels"
Artist: Missing Joe
Album: Highway Songs

I first saw Missing Joe when they opened for a favorite band of mine, Nine Days, at Ashland University in Ohio, around the year 2001. These guys released a couple of albums of amazing songs and all of them continue to generate heavy rotation in my player years later. The band never made it big, but they should have. These days they have re-emerged as a group of acoustic-and-three-part-harmony dudes called The Brightwings. Do yourself a favor and find these guys.

Sunday Morning

Song: "Lover's Paradise"
Artist: Eric Darius
Album: Just Getting Started

You can argue that most smooth jazz sounds the same, but that doesn't hide the fact that it's tailor made for Sunday mornings. Young artist Eric Darius is really talented and his latest album is as good on a Sunday morning as an omelet or pancakes, and a big fat newspaper. This is also good music if you guys are making dinner for your lady and trying to impress her, no matter how old you are.

Prowler

Song: "Prowler"
Artist: Iron Maiden
Album: Iron Maiden

This is the first song on the first album by metal band Iron Maiden, and it flat out freaking rocks.
I've loved this song ever since I was a pimply faced high school kid, and it still sounds as raw and edgy as it did back then. It's also the first of only two albums with vocalist Paul Di'Anno, who left in favor of Bruce Dickinson after battling alcoholism. Nothing against Dickinson, who is one of the best unheralded singers in rock music, but I always liked the band better with the scratchy-throated Di'Anno singing.

Oldest Story

Song: "Oldest Story in the World"
Artist: The Plimsouls
Album: Everywhere At Once

I didn't get into The Plimsouls until about six years after this debut album came out, but I fell in love with their music instantly. The band didn't really do much after that, but front man Peter Case has released solo material and I think they briefly reunited in 2006 at SXSW. But either way, this is one of the most underrated rock albums of all-time. It's rock music the way it's supposed to be--raw, hooky, and way cool. This song is as close to a "ballad" that The Plimsouls would ever get, and even then it's got more balls than the uptempo songs of today's bands.

Alicia Keys

Song: "If I Ain't Got You"
Artist: Alicia Keys
Album: The Diary of Alicia Keys

She kind of came out of nowhere a few years ago, but Alicia Keys is going to have a nice, long career. This young, sexy singer/songwriter is a throwback to the old days of Motown, and she's been championed by the likes of Stevie Wonder. She can play the piano well, sings amazingly and writes hooky pop/R&B songs that leave most of her peers in the dust. Those of you not familiar with Ms. Keys should start with this album.

Love Time

Song: "Love Time"
Artist: The Insiders
Album: Not For Sale

My buddy Dave and I found this band on a drunken bender in Chicago and made them our own.
We also stopped for fried chicken in a really bad part of town and lived to tell about it, but that's another story. The Insiders didn't really bust out in a big way outside of their hometown, but truly deserved to. These guys were beyond cool, and could even take a potentially wussy song like this and give it an edge. If you see anything in a used bin or in a vintage record store in Chicago by this band, pick it up.

The Stranger

Song: "The Stranger"
Artist: Billy Joel
Album: The Stranger

Billy Joel has been writing music and performing for over three decades, but I still think The Stranger is his best album ever. He had a big hit with "Piano Man" in the mid-70's but it was this album that put him on the map. I'll bet no one remembers this title track as well as they remember "Just the Way You Are" or "Only the Good Die Young." The song sounds a bit dated now, but I still think it's better than any of the big hits.

Glow

Song: "Glow"
Artist: Katy Rose
Album: Because I Can

When this album came out on V2 Records in 2004, I swore that Katy Rose would be the next big thing. She writes sensible pop tunes with a bit of teen angst, but not in an over-the-top way. And when the album came out she was only 16, meaning that Katy is maybe 19 now. Though she's been dropped from the label, I read recently that she's working on new music. Hopefully she can resurrect her own career post-V2, because she really is quite a talent.

Butch is the Man

Song: "Suburbia"
Artist: Butch Walker
Album: Left of Self-Centered

Noted wiseass and very gifted singer, songwriter and producer Butch Walker spread his wings when he left the band Marvelous 3 to start a solo career. This was the first solo effort for Butch and for my money, it's one of the greatest rock albums of all-time. He hasn't quite matched the magic of that album, but the songs on this one stand the test of time anyway. Plus, Butch has made a nice career as a producer and songwriter, working with the likes of Avril Lavigne and Bowling For Soup, among many others. This song is a prime example of how Butch marries witty lyrics with hooks that don't quit.

The Unforgettable Fire

Song: "The Unforgettable Fire"
Artist: U2
Album: The Unforgettable Fire

This band went on to become huge. I mean, they were huge in the eighties but now they're like Rock & Roll Hall of Fame huge and one of the top concert tickets in history. But I was never a huge fan. I still think The Joshua Tree is U2's best album, and this lesser known track is one of my all-time favorite songs of theirs. I know everyone knows who Bono is, but I don't think they all realize what an incredible singer he's always been.

White Limo

Song: "White Limousine"
Artist: Duncan Sheik
Album: White Limousine

Though not the same poppy songwriter as the guy who delivered a huge hit with "Barely Breathing" over ten years ago, Duncan Sheik is still making great music. His stuff tends to border on the experimental, but not in an annoying way. In fact, it's just the opposite. I find myself wanting to hear more and more of what Sheik creates, because it's the kind of stuff that you find something new to like about with each listen. This is the title track from his latest, and it's really a stunning album.

Burn Down

Song: "Burn Down"
Artist: Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash
Album: Distance Between

This is one of those so-called "alt-country" groups that sounds nothing like Johnny Cash but uses his name for notoriety nonetheless. Forget about the band's name, and pick up this album if you like anything at all that resembles middle America. I'm talking a way cooler version of Mellencamp, a twangier Toad the Wet Sprocket, or simply a good jangly rock band. This is the band's best effort and this song is one of my all-time faves by anyone. I can even get past the fact that it sounds like Grover from "Sesame Street" is singing background vocals in the chorus.

Long Island Shores

Song: "Long Island Shores"
Artist: Mindy Smith
Album: Long Island Shores

Mindy Smith is like a young Patty Griffin....she has a velvety, bluesy, and immaculate voice. She, like me, grew up on Long Island and now lives in Nashville. Her surroundings have added a touch of twang, but Mindy's songs are still tinged with folk and alt-pop, and sometimes quite mesmerizing. This title track to Smith's latest album mentions parts of Long Island I remember, which is cool in itself. But it's really just an amazingly pretty song.

Mercy Me

Song: "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)"
Artist: Marvin Gaye
Album: What's Going On

Barry White's music is usually synonymous with seduction, but you can make that case for one of the greatest soul artists of all time, Mr. Marvin Gaye (RIP). There was so much great music to come out of Motown in the early years, but Marvin's music has stood the test of time and then some. There isn't an aspiring R&B singer anywhere that hasn't studied or emulated him and his career. To me, Marvin Gaye's music borders on brilliant and this was one of his best songs.

High

Song: "High"
Artist: Feeder
Album: Polythene

I can't remember how I came across this band, but I think they're British and I know they're really good. They had a song, it may have been this one, on one of The O.C. compilations, which helped spark interest in them, but they are not a one hit wonder by any means. There's a cool alterna-vibe to the band and they sure know how to craft a catchy song.

Eleanor, not Rigby

Song: "Eleanor"
Artist: Low Millions
Album: Ex-Girlfriends

Thank goodness I live in Nashville where we have a kickass radio station in Lightning 100. It's AAA (adult album alternative) and has turned me on to bands like Stereophonics and this band, Low Millions. The band released their debut album on Manhattan Records in 2004 and there are a load of really good songs on it. Singer and guitarist Adam Cohen has a very cool voice, too.

Fine China

Song: "Fine China"
Artist: Andy Davis
Album: Fine China EP

I'm somewhat partial because this is a client of mine, but Davis is a singer/songwriter who has an incredibly bright future. He's got a knack for melody, a great full voice as well as falsetto, and his songs stick in your head but don't have a high burn rate...for those of you not in the business, that means you won't get sick of his songs after repeated listens. The title track to Davis' Fine China EP, released in January 2007, is a piano-based gem.

Hello Time Bomb

Song: "Hello Time Bomb"
Artist Matthew Good
Album: Beautiful Midnight

This album, released in 1999, is not only Good's best effort, it's maybe in my top 20 albums of all time. It's one of those records that you can listen to from start to finish, hit re-play and never, ever tire of. That's a gift few artists can deliver. This song, naturally, has a ticking time bomb sound throughout, but the guitar and vocal onslaught are what makes it extremely powerful.

Kodachrome

Song: "Kodachrome"
Artist: Paul Simon
Album: There Goes Rhymin' Simon

This was one of Simon's first hits after the first separation from Art Garfunkel, and it's one of his catchiest songs ever. When I was a kid, I thought Simon was singing "Mama don't take my coat and comb away," but then when I bought the single I was set straight. There really isn't much to say that hasn't been said before, but basically Paul Simon is one of the greatest songwriters in pop history, and is voice is as recognizable as any in music.

Toad Rules

Song: "Whatever I Fear"
Artist: Toad the Wet Sprocket
Album: Coil

Glen Phillips has had a nice solo career, but nothing has matched the magic he and guitarist/co-writer Todd Nichols created as front men for the band Toad the Wet Sprocket. The band's last album, Coil, is one of my favorites of theirs....the walls of guitars, harmonies and powerful hooks are pure pop candy, but there is also an edge that made these guys cooler than everyone gave them credit for. This song kicks off the Coil album in fine form.

MuteMath

Song: "You Are Mine"
Artist: MuthMath
Album: MuteMath

This is a newer band, at least as far as major label signings go. Warner Brothers signed this New Orleans rock band and released their debut in 2006, and it's postively stunning. The album is a mix of alternative rock, funk, and electronic elements....but as with many artists, it's the vocals that take MuteMath to another level. Paul Meany is one of the best singers that not everyone knows yet, but give it time. This spacey song is not like everything else on the record, but it's my favorite track.

Piano Man for a New Generation

Song: "Selfless, Cold, and Composed"
Artist: Ben Folds Five
Album: Whatever and Ever Amen

Piano-playing indie rocker/singer/songwriter dude Ben Folds burst out of obscurity with the release of this album in 1998 when modern rock radio played the crap out of the single, "Brick." If that's what it took to get me to become a fan, so be it. This album is one of my all-time faves by Folds and his "Five" or by anyone for that matter. It's got just the right amount of indie charm to mix with its listenability, and the arrangements on every song are stellar.

One More Chance

Song: "One More Chance"
Artist: Zebra
Album: Zebra

It was 1983 and I was driving my school bus yellow VW Rabbit back from Boston with my buddy Dave. After a weekend of partying at his his girlfriends' campus (were we studs or what?) we were pumped because we had tickets to see our favorite band, Zebra, on the campus of Hofstra. But then my radiator sprung a leak and the hot coolant (is that an oximoron?) shredded a fan belt, causing the engine light to come on and smoke to emit from under the hood.
Of course, I worked in my dad's VW dealership back then, and had a spare fan belt in my trunk. We put it on, and stopped to fill the radiator with water every half hour until coasting home and then grabbing Dave's car to take to the show. It's fun to look back on but we were horrified at the time, not of being stranded on a freeway in the middle of Connecticut, but of not making it to the show. Zebra was a power trio that was influenced by the likes of Led Zeppelin, Rush and The Moody Blues. In fact, this song was a favorite of ours long before the band was signed to Atlantic Records. The chorus lifts like few choruses lift anymore, and lead singer Randy Jackson has a voice that rivals Robert Plant.

Maybe Tomorrow

Song: "Maybe Tomorrow"
Artist: Stereophonics
Album: Maybe Tomorrow EP

I was turned on to this band a few years ago when WRLT (Lightning 100) here in Nashville played it, and it was one of those songs that I had to go and buy as soon as I returned to my computer. I'm not sure if this song was on a full-length LP or not, but it doesn't matter. There is a really cool live version of it too. Anyway, not only was I smitten by this song, but I went and bought the band's Language Sex Violence album soon after it came out, and it's become one of my all-time faves. Stereophonics are way more popular in their native UK than here in the States, but do yourself a favor and check them out.