Ramones

Song: "Something To Believe In"
Artist: The Ramones
Album: Weird Tales of the Ramones

This isn't the song everyone thinks of when they think of The Ramones, but back in the heyday of Long Island rock station WLIR, this was one of the songs they played in the mid '80's, and I loved it. I still love it...it's not typical Ramones fare, but it's rocking and melodic nonetheless.

David Cook

Song: "Permanent"
Artist: David Cook
Album: David Cook

I write a blog covering "American Idol" on Premium Hollywood, and I pegged this guy to win last season pretty early on (yes, I'm patting myself on the back!). The judges were practically drooling over David Archuleta, but America got it right, voting for who they really wanted, and that's how it should be. This guy is the real deal.

Meet Virginia

Song: "Meet Virginia"
Artist: Train
Album: Train

As alt-pop bands go, Train was one of the best and this was their breakout hit in the late '90's. Train was among about ten bands who enjoyed this kind of success based on their initial launch by Aware Records, a non-conventional label that broke artists like Better Than Ezra, Edwin McCain and Vertical Horizon.

Sanford

Song: "Smoke From a Distant Fire"
Artist: Sanford & Townsend
Album: Smoke From a Distant Fire

Okay, so you could classify these guys as a one hit wonder. No problem as far as I'm concerned, it's still a great song and probably has landed on enough '70's compilations to keep the royalty checks coming for Sanford & Townsend.

Cinnamon & Chocolate

Song: "Cinnamon & Chocolate"
Artist: Butterfly Boucher
Album: Ten out of Tenn Christmas

This is a really great singer/songwriter Christmas album for someone seeking something a bit more edgy but not too edgy. And this song by Nashville's Butterfly Boucher is not only wintry sounding, but a really great track.

Butch Is Back

Song: "ATL"
Artist: Butch Walker
Album: Sycamore Meadows

Butch Walker is back with his best album since Left of Self-Centered, and this piano ballad is as stunning a song as I've ever heard, period. Butch is simply one of the greatest rock songwriters of a generation.

She Sheila

Song: "She Sheila"
Artist: The Producers
Album: The Producers and You Make the Heat

This was one of my favorite bands from the '80's and one that you might have trouble finding music online for these days. This is infectious pop/rock at its finest.

3 Libras

Song: "3 Libras"
Artist: A Perfect Circle
Album: Mer de Noms

Some songs are worth putting in this blog more than once, and I'm pretty sure I've already included this track. But I love this album...it's dark and heavy and pulsing and awesome all at the same time.

Uh Huh Her

Song: "So Long"
Artist: Uh Huh Her
Album: Common Reaction

This new group reminds me of '80's electro pop acts such as Berlin and Missing Persons, and it's just infectious music that fills a void left by much of today's new artist crop. This really is a solid debut.

Low Rawls

Song: "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"
Artist: Lou Rawls
Album: Christmas Is The Time

Most of you know Lou Rawls from his pop crossover hit, "This Masquerade," but Rawls was mostly a jazz singer with pop tendencies. And what a singer he was.

You Don't Want Me

Song: "You Don't Want Me"
Artist: Franke & The Knockouts
Album: The Sweetheart Collection

If you were/are a fan of this awesome '80's pop artist who never really got his due for delivering such amazing songs (okay, he wrote the big ones for the "Dirty Dancing" soundtrack, but I'm talking the Knockouts songs), you may feel like you own gold if you own this set. That's because, at least as of yet, Franke & The Knockouts' music is not available digitally.

George Duke

Song: "I Tried To Tell You"
Artist: George Duke
Album: Dukey Treats

I have had the pleasure recently of working some tour press for this legendary artist, and can't stop listening to his latest album, which reminds me of early Earth, Wind & Fire with a bit more smooth jazz flavor thrown in. Mr. Duke is The Man.

Ben Folds Christmas

Song: "Lonely Christmas Eve"
Artist: Ben Folds
Album: Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas soundtrack

This song doesn't particularly sound Christmas-y, but more like one of Ben Folds' typical infectious pop tunes. But it's still great stuff and worthy of putting in your holiday playlist.

Like a Hurricane

Song: "Like a Hurricane"
Artist: Neil Young
Album: American Stars 'N Bars

This eight-plus minute epic features an off-key vocal by Young, which still manages to be cool. But it also has one of the greatest, more underrated guitar solos in rock history.

Gabe Dixon Band

Song: "Disappear"
Artist: The Gabe Dixon Band
Album: The Gabe Dixon Band

This is my top album of 2008, and if you hear it, you might agree with me. That is, if you like excellent pop/rock that has the timeless qualities of stuff like Jackson Browne and Paul McCartney. Trust me!

Birthday Song

Song: "Birthday Song"
Artist: Dana Falconberry
Album: Oh Skies of Grey

I came across this artist recently and she is not your typical girl with guitar...it's more brooding alt-folk-pop, and very cool. And since today is my birthday it's an appropriate track.

Twisted Sister

Song: "What You Don't Know.."
Artist: Twisted Sister
Album: Live at the Astoria

I grew up on Long Island positively worshiping this band. When they were a bar band and before they were MTV darlings, Twisted Sister was just a tight, rocking, crazy, fun band to watch. And they have had some really great rock songs including this one. I am listening to this live album and it's bringing back a lot of memories.

Christmas Is Coming

Song: "Christmas Is Coming"
Artist: Vince Guaraldi Trio
Album: A Charlie Brown Christmas

Is there a more Christmas-y sounding album than A Charlie Brown Christmas? Heck, when I hear these songs, I can smell Christmas trees and taste Dolly Madison snack cakes. A true classic.

12 Days Of Christmas

Song: "12 Days of Christmas"
Artist: Straight No Chaser
Album: Holiday Spirits

This vocal group is very talented but the best part is that during this track, they break into the melody for Toto's "Africa." Very unique and very cool.

BMFA

Song: "BMFA"
Artist: Martha Wainwright
Album: Martha Wainwright

If you have had an experience like I just had at the license bureau, this is your theme song for the day. BMFA stands for "bloody mother fucking asshole." Martha, I know it wasn't intended this way, but this song has helped me get through today. Thank you for that.

Scandal

Song: "If You Leave Me"
Artist: Scandal
Album: We Are the '80's

Patty Smyth had, or has, one of the best female rock voices of all-time, hands down. This early Scandal stuff may sound dated, but Patty's voice is timeless, sexy, and just awesome.

This Christmas

Song: "This Christmas"
Artist: Donnie Hathaway
Album: This Christmas & Be There

Donnie Hathaway was one of the more unheralded, amazing, R&B singers ever. He sadly passed away in 1979 in what was ruled a suicide, but his music lives on. This is one of my favorite holiday tunes, especially with Donnie singing it, and a good way to officially kick off the holiday season today as a lot of you go shopping.

Bruce Hornsby

Song: "The River Runs Low"
Artist: Bruce Hornsby
Album: The Way It Is

When you think if '80's music, chances are you don't think of this Bruce Hornsby album. But let me tell you, this album is one of the lesser acclaimed but incredible albums from the decade. It's pure emotive, piano-driven, Americana-tinged melodic pop.

Do Something

Song: "Do Something"
Artist: Macy Gray
Album: On How Life Is

Macy hasn't quite matched the awesomeness of this album, and this is one of my favorite tunes of hers.

Motorcycle Drive By

Song: "Motorcycle Drive By"
Artist: Third Eye Blind
Album: Third Eye Blind

On Third Eye Blind's first album, the last four songs are all dark and gloomy and beautiful at the same time, and this is one of them. This is one of my favorite albums of the '90's, hands down.

Roundabout

Song: "Roundabout"
Artist: Yes
Album: Fragile

I know, I know...we've all heard this song a million times on classic rock radio, but I do remember in my childhood playing this album over and over, as well as Led Zeppelin "IV"....what can I say? And it's worth mentioning that Yes has always been known for their super cool album covers.

Smokin' In the Boys Room

Song: "Smokin' In the Boys Room"
Artist: Brownsville Station
Album: Yeah!

Ah, one of those one-hit wonders from the '70's that I love so much. This was a novelty song of sorts, but it does sort of rock. No, really!

HotSocky

Song: "Believe"
Artist: HotSocky
Album: HotSocky

I don't know if this band is still making music, but this debut came out maybe six or seven years ago, and blew me away. It's raw garage rock but with melodies. If you can find this anywhere, grab it.

Breathe In, Breathe Out

Song: "Machinehead"
Artist: Bush
Album: Sixteen Stone

The '90's were weird for me in some ways, but great in that I was able to re-connect with my passion for music. And I took a liking to a lot of the grunge of the time, including Bush. This is the kind of song that you put in your iPod for a "workout" mix, and trust me, it will make you want to run through a wall.

Fly Like An Eagle

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

This is not the Steve Miller Band song from the '70's, but a very good song--Southern rock with a flute in the band....I just loved these guys and love this album to this day.

Todd

Song: "Can We Still Be Friends?"
Artist: Todd Rundgren
Album: The Very Best of Todd Rundgren

There is something ultra-compelling about Todd Rundgren's early material. His voice, arrangements and melodies are timeless and unique yet super catchy. There is an element of prog-rock too. His biggest fans would say "Todd is God," and while I wouldn't go that far, I have always had a soft spot for his music.

Foghat

Song: "Easy Money"
Artist: Foghat
Album: Stone Blue

Laugh all you want...I loved this band when I was growing up, and when I was 14 my band, Black Pearl, even covered some of their songs like "Slow Ride" and "I Just Wanna Make Love To You." Yeah, imagine a group of young teenagers singing songs like that...pretty funny. But this band is one of the classic rock staples to this day.

Children of the Damned

Song: "Children of the Damned"
Artist: Iron Maiden
Album: Somewhere Back In Time

I grew up in the late '70's/early '80's and Iron Maiden was one of the first true "metal" bands that I happened to worship as a pimply faced teenager. And I still love this music, as I sit here, a middle-aged dad.

Jenny

Song: "Jenny"
Artist: The Click Five
Album: Modern Minds and Pastimes

This band writes some of the most infectious pop of any band in recent memory. If power pop is your thing and you haven't given these guys a listen yet, go do it now. You will thank me later.

Make Believe

Song: "Make Believe"
Artist: Tommy Lee
Album: Tommyland: The Ride

Not only is Tommy Lee a great drummer, dude is just a rock star. On this solo album, he sings too and not only does he have a great voice, but the songs are really good too.

Strange Magic

Song: "Strange Magic"
Artist: ELO
Album: Face The Music

ELO (Electric Light Orchestra) is one of those bands that defines '70's pop music. Not only did they use a real orchestra, but their melodies rival anything in any era in popular music history.

Let It Ride

Song: "Let It Ride"
Artist Bachman Turner Overdrive
Album: 20th Century Masters

Everyone knows this band from "Takin' Care of Business," but they had so many more great songs including this one. It's just pure pop bliss.

The Sundays

Song: "Your Eyes"
Artist: The Sundays
Album: Static & Silence

This is one of my favorite albums of all-time, one that I can listen to from beginning to end. The Sundays never matched the brilliance of this album, at least in my opinion, but that's okay.

Mrs. Rita

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

This is one of the lesser-known tracks from the Gin Blossoms' biggest album that came out in the early '90's. It sure was strange seeing bands like and like Hootie emerge in a time when grunge was king.

Robin Hood

Song: "Robin Hood"
Artist: .38 Special
Album: Rockin' Into The Night

As instrumental tracks go, this is a really nice, breezy guitar-driven piece by a band that never really gets the props they deserve for musicianship.

Red Wanting Blue

Song: "Where You Wanna Go"
Artist: Red Wanting Blue
Album: These Magnificent Miles

This band has been touring without the support of a record label for over a decade, and their new album is their best work yet. Great guys, great music, go buy it.

TNT

Song: "Forever Shine On"
Artist: TNT
Album: Intuition

I absolutely played the crap out of this cassette I had in the late '80's! No joke. I don't know what happened to these guys, but this remains one of my favorite hair band albums of all-time, and sadly, one you have probably never heard of. Go find this stuff, it's awesome, especially the guitar work.

Driven To Tears

Song: "Driven To Tears"
Artist: The Police
Album: Zenyatta Mondatta

This is one of my favorite Police songs of all-time. This band really has some great songs in their catalog. It really would be cool if they decided to release something new before hanging it up again.

Angel on My Bike

Song: "Angel on My Bike"
Artist: The Wallflowers
Album: Bringing Down the Horse

Jakob Dylan's band came out of the gates with some good rock songs and some boring pop anthems ("One Headlight") at the same time. But edgy stuff like this was really good, and Dylan seems to have mellowed like his dad and forgotten about this edgy part of his catalog.

Milwaukees

Song: "Save Me"
Artist: The Milwaukees
Album: American Anthems Vol. 1

This album title is appropriate because this band sounds like Springsteen and Tom Petty and all things American. Good ol' American rock.

Everything

Song: "Everything"
Artist: Jody Watley
Album: Best of Jody Watley

This is one of many cheesy pop songs I have in my collection. It's really just good, timeless pop.

This Is It

Song: "This Is It"
Artist: Ryan Adams
Album: Rock N Roll

Ryan Adams just keeps making great music, and this rock album he did a few years ago may be one of the most underrated rock albums of the last decade. Go check it out if you haven't heard it, whether you're a fan or not.

The Insiders

Song: "Scarlet Ribbons"
Artist: The Insiders
Album: Not For Sale

One of the best songs from one of the best bands you probably never heard of. They are not together anymore, but you can still find their music, and when you do, tell them I sent you.

Red Skies

Song: "Red Skies"
Artist: The Fixx
Album: 25th Anniversary Anthology

It is truly mind blowing to think that bands like The Fixx are celebrating 25 or 30 years. When did the decades become like years?

Ten Years Gone

Song: "Ten Years Gone"
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Album: Latter Days, Best of Led Zeppelin

This is one of those bands whose music was hard to find digitally until recently, but if you're lucky enough to own a collection like this one as I do, you have had these songs in your play list for a while. I grew up worshipping this band and still love their music today.

Prefab Sprout

Song: "The Golden Calf"
Artist: Prefab Sprout
Album: ?

I don't have an album listed on my iTunes, but I believe this was from a Greatest Hits collection of Prefab Sprout that came out about 5 years ago. I have always loved the song "Appetite" and didn't know of this track until I heard the greatest hits set....and I absolutely love this one. It's in my Top 25 most played.

Raining

Song: "Raining in Baltimore"
Artist: Counting Crows
Album: August and Everything After

This first album of Counting Crows is not only one of my faves of theirs, it's one of my favorites of all-time. It's supposed to rain all day here in Nashville, so this song is the perfect backdrop.

Taking Me Back

Song: "Strange Way"
Artist: Firefall
Album: Rhino Hi-Five Firefall EP

This song takes me back to around 1978, when it came out. I still love this song, and had the great pleasure of representing this band about a year ago for their Beatles tribute album.

Redmond

Song: "Shoulder Of The Road"
Artist: Redmond
Album: Measure of One

My band played some shows with these guys when they were playing the Philly circuit and we were playing the Cleveland circuit. Great guys and very talented, though I'm not sure the band is still making music.

Adult Education

Song: "Adult Education"
Artist: Hall & Oates
Album: Hall & Oates: Greatest Hits

Hall & Oates did a great job of re-inventing themselves...in the '70's, their stuff was pop, but bordering on folk. Then in the '80's, they turned to more bombastic pop/rock like this, and it worked beautifully.

Eric Darius

Song: "Steppin' Up"
Artist: Eric Darius
Album: Just Getting Started

I have a fair amount of smooth jazz in my iTunes, and this is from Eric Darius, a young sax player who literally is "just getting started." Great stuff.

Rock Brigade

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

This was the first song on the first album by Def Leppard, and for my money, it's their best. Not that they haven't had huge hits since then and are still rocking after almost 30 years, but this song is raw and awesome.

The Outfield

Song: "Taking My Chances"
Artist: The Outfield
Album: Play Deep

When in Green Bay this past weekend, I heard this band on the radio more than once. That's a sure sign that radio has completely gone the direction of catering to middle age folks like me. Whatever, I love this album!

Wings

Song: "My Love"
Artist: Wings
Album: Wings Over America

If you ever needed proof that Paul McCartney could succeed post-Beatles, this album was it. Really, this music stands up to any Beatles stuff that was ever released. And it's timeless.

Jesse Harris

Song: "You and Me"
Artist: Jesse Harris
Album: Feel

This was the guy who co-wrote the first few big Norah Jones hits....and his solo stuff is not the kind of music that instantly grabs you, but when it does, you won't want to stop listening.

Pearl Jam

Song: "Better Man"
Artist: Pearl Jam
Album: Vitalogy

Okay, so I know there are some Pearl Jam fans who are obsessed with the band. I'm not obsessed, but have an appreciation for grunge and the original sound they bring to the table. And really, Pearl Jam is one of the bands that defined '90's rock.

Warm Ways

Song: "Warm Ways"
Artist: Fleetwood Mac
Album: Fleetwood Mac

Before Rumours, Fleetwood Mac put out this self-titled effort that in my mind is even better than their breakout album. This Christine McVie track is one of the prettiest songs in pop music, period.

Missing Joe

Song: "Constellations"
Artist: Missing Joe
Album: Breaking Down the Constellations

I saw these guys open for Nine Days around the year 2000 or 2001 and they were amazing. The band went on to record another album after this and then broke up, re-formed as The Brightwings, and then broke up again. But they are still making music individually. And if you can find this stuff, do it.....it's great pop/rock...modern edged with a classic pop throwback feel.

It's Going on Saturday

Song: "It's Going on Saturday"
Artist: Aztec Two-Step
Album: See It Was Like This...

Aztec Two-Step was one of those groups my older brothers and sister turned me on to at a young age, and I carried on the flame by performing this with my buddy Dave in our acoustic duo Second Wind. Back when men were men and wine and cheese was cool. If you see these guys on iTunes, go grab some.

Beautiful Cage

Song: "Beautiful Cage"
Artist: Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash
Album: Distance Between

If you like Southern tinged roots rock with great vocals and catchy melodies, go check out this album. I don't know how these guys were not lifted into the stratosphere of stardom with it, but that's the music industry for you.

It Only Takes a Minute

Song: "It Only Takes a Minute Girl"
Artist: Tavares
Album: Tavares: Anthology

This is one of the classic hits from the '70's, but how Tavares can fill an anthology is kind of head-scratching. Still, this is a great song from a great era in pop music.

Gone Hollywood

Song: "Gone Hollywood"
Artist: Supertramp
Album: Breakfast In America

This is one of the more defining albums of classic rock, and one that you don't hear about as much as you should. It's still one of the few that I can listen to from beginning to end.

The Replacements

Song: "Asking Me Lies"
Artist: The Replacements
Album: Don't Tell A Soul

I'm reviewing this album for Bullz-Eye.com now, the re-mastered version with bonus tracks and it is reminding me that it's one of my favorite albums of all-time. To me, this was The Replacements at their peak....with just a little bit of the punk rock edge taken off and more of a focus on melody...and it's just brilliant.

Days Were Different

Song: "Days Were Different"
Artist: Lisa Loeb
Album: The Purple Tape

I used to have a crush on Lisa Loeb, back during her Firecracker album days and after that. Something about a nerdy hot chick with glasses and a somewhat sexy voice. Now Lisa is doing children's music, which is fine, but her hotness has gone from 11 out of ten down to about 2. And this song is from her recent Purple Tape album, full of unreleased stuff and acoustic versions of her previously released stuff. Not as hot, but still very talented.

Coil

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

Toad The Wet Sprocket's Dulcinea is probably my favorite album of theirs and one of my all-time faves. But Coil ranks a close second. It never really amounted to major success for this great alt-pop band, but the guitars, melodies and vocals, all swirling together on this album, are money in my book.

These Hard Times

Song: "These Hard Times"
Artist: Matchbox Twenty
Album: Exile on Mainstream

Critics love poking fun of bands like this that write accessible, melodic pop/rock. Whatever. This is good music, and someday Rob Thomas is going to get his due for being a great songwriter.

Novo Combo

Song: "Anyone Can See"
Artist: Novo Combo
Album: Animation Generation

This was one of my favorite albums from the '80's....and when I recently tracked down lead singer Pete Hewlett online, I was thrilled....even more so when I had the chance to meet him and interview him for Bullz-Eye.com. It's too bad this band's major label career only lasted two albums, but Pete is still out there performing.

Right Now

Song: "Right Now"
Artist: Van Halen
Album: Live: Right Here, Right Now

I think this song was on a Pepsi commercial or something, but you can't say this anthem isn't worthy of that kind of global exposure. And Sammy Hagar's pipes are worthy of belting out the words.

Breaking Laces

Song: "Going Away"
Artist: Breaking Laces
Album: Sohcahtoa

Once again I'm going to use this space to pimp one of the artists I represent, NYC band Breaking Laces. This is one of their earlier releases but all of their stuff is well worth checking out, especially if indie pop is your thing.

Toto

Song: "Girl Goodbye"
Artist: Toto
Album: Toto

Toto had many hits, including "Hold the Line," "Africa," and "Pamela." Their debut album was a combination of pop, funk, prog rock and white boy R&B. It's still one of my all-time favorite albums.

Bobby Brown

Song: "Roni"
Artist: Bobby Brown
Album: Don't Be Cruel

This song has those big drum beats signature guitar and keyboard sounds from the '80's, but it's still a very catchy pop tune that's still catchy twenty years later. Bobby Brown's troubles have been well-documented, but he sure as hell had some nice hit songs.

Carlos Santana

Song: "Europa"
Artist: Santana
Album: Dance of the Rainbow Serpent

When I was in my twenties and living in New York, I had the pleasure of seeing Carlos Santana with his jazz band. That's when I first heard this song, and saw the man positively make his guitar sing. Really, few can do that like Carlos, and this is one of my all-time favorite instrumentals.

Maria Muldaur

Song: "Midnight At the Oasis"
Artist: Maria Muldaur
Album: Maria Muldaur

This song was a hit like 30 years ago, which really blows my mind, because I remember it being released. Whether or not that makes me old, hearing songs like this from my childhood always brings this awesome nostalgic feeling. That's why they are in my iTunes player.

P.S.: Maria is still out there playing shows

Pete Yorn

Song: "Just Another"
Artist: Pete Yorn
Album: Musicforthemorningafter

If you're a fan of Joseph Arthur, and haven't checked out Pete Yorn's first album yet, go grab it now. This was Pete's best work, and then the labels or whoever messed with his style and songwriting. They should have let him keep writing beautiful stuff like this.

Seafood

Song: "Time & Tides"
Artist: Seafood
Album: Paper Crown King

I'm not a big seafood fan, but I am a fan of this band. They are I believe British, and if you are into brooding alternative rock, you should check these guys out. This album is one of their best.

Judas Priest

Song: "The Green Manalishi"
Artist: Judas Priest
Album: Hell Bent For Leather

I used to play in a metal band, well, back in the day.....and this was one of my favorite bands and still is one of my all-time favorite albums. If you're going to buy any Judas Priest album, start with this one.

Lovely People

Song: "Lovely People"
Artist: Earth, Wind & Fire (featuring Will.I.Am)
Album: Illumination

Earth, Wind & Fire is one of my all-time favorite bands, and they keep making great music. This one is from their latest album and features Will.I.Am, maybe to give the band a more current vibe. But it's great stuff as always.

Freakshow

Song: "Freakshow"
Artist: The Cure
Album: single

So I can't remember how I came across this single, but I do work in the music business so I come across stuff that hasn't been released yet all the time. Anyway, being that football season is upon us, and my fantasy football team is The Freakshow, this is my theme song for the 2008 season.

Joseph Arthur

Song: "I Would Rather Hide"
Artist: Joseph Arthur
Album: Redemption's Son

Joseph Arthur is very prolific, and it seems like he's releasing a new album every month. But this one, released about five or six years ago, is his best. If you've never heard Arthur, he's got a super cool voice and a knack for cool but accessible melodies.

Coldplay

Song: "Viva La Vida"
Artist: Coldplay
Album: Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends

Coldplay started off cool and indie and then took off when they released A Rush of Blood To the Head a few years back. Viva La Vida is their fourth album and while you might argue that Coldplay and U2 are becoming the same band, there are some killer songs on this record, including this title track.

Games People Play

Song: "Games People Play"
Artist: Alan Parsons Project
Album: Arista Heritage Series

Alan Parsons was the producer for Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon, and his music is always melodic and interesting. This song may have been his most commercial offering.

Little Lies

Song: "Little Lies"
Artist: Ari Hest
Album: The Green Room Sessions

Ari Hest is one of my favorite singer/songwriters, and this is one of his lesser-known works. It was an EP that Hest recorded in his living room a few years ago, and this track is a cover of one of Fleetwood Mac's lesser-known hits.

8:05

Song: "Young Boys"
Artist: 8:05
Album: End Of Light

My friend Dave and I used to worship this band from upstate New York. So when I came across a greatest hits album online, I was stoked. If you can find this stuff, it's catchy prog-rock meets pop....sort of like early Todd Rundgren.

Susanna Hoffs

Song: "Darling One"
Artist: Susanna Hoffs
Album: Susanna Hoffs

I had a crush on Susanna when I was growing up, when she was lead singer of The Bangles. She was hot and had this really cute, sexy voice. Anyway, this was her first solo record and it shows that Hoffs is also a really great pop songwriter.

The Blakes

Song: "Commit"
Artist: The Blakes
Album: The Blakes

If you dig garage-y pop/rock (think The Plimsouls), The Blakes could be your new favorite band. There are a lot of pretentious bands that try too hard to emulate this sound, but few do it well. These guys are part of the few.

Joe Rohan

Song: "Counting Flies"
Artist: Joe Rohan
Album: Walk Along

I had the pleasure of representing this talented Ohio based singer/songwriter for a few years. He tells stories and weaves melodies around them really well...check him out if you have a chance and if you are in the Cleveland area, go see this guy play.

Jellyfish

Song: "That Is Why"
Artist: Jellyfish
Album: Bellybutton

This is great jangly guitar-driven alt-pop at its finest. Jellyfish were around in the '90's when I lived in Cleveland the big station was 107.9 The End, you know, when modern rock was a top format. Some of this band's music is bordering on brilliant.

China Crisis

Song: Bigger The Punch I'm Feeling"
Artist: China Crisis
Album: Flaunt The Imperfection

This is a band I followed in the '80's after hearing them on powerhouse alt-rock station WLIR in New York. And I just recently found their music on iTunes, which made me really happy.

Where is Todd Thibaud?

Song: "Isn't Love My Friend?"
Artist: Todd Thibaud
Album: Northern Skies

I remember back in the late '90's, driving through Erie, PA on business, and hearing Todd Thibaud on the radio. This wasn't the song, but I went out and bought his album and found out he came out of the Aware Records camp. This is great alt-pop and sounds a lot like Toad the Wet Sprocket.

Evileen

Song: "Evileen"
Artist: Atlanta Rhythm Section
Album: Champagne Jam

This was a great band in the '70's, full of pop and soul and melody....and great guitar work. But while the band is more known for songs like "Imaginary Lover" and "So Into You," they had way more than that, like this track.

World Party

Song: "All Come True"
Artist: World Party
Album: Best In Show

This band has had some marginal alt-rock hits, but if you get a hold of this greatest hits collection, you realize that they had many more marginally great songs on top of the ones you heard on the radio. World Party is a unique band that knows their way around a melody, but still has the capability to make their songs really cool. That's a rare talent.

Don't Believe

Song: "Don't Believe"
Artist: Marjorie Fair
Album: Self Help Serenade

This band lasted one album on their label, which I believe was Capitol. But that doesn't mean it wasn't an amazing record. If you are into spacy pop like early Pink Floyd, you'll love this stuff.
Trust me.

Cookie Monster

Song: "C is for Cookie"
Artist: Cookie Monster
Album: C Is For Cookie--Cookie's Favorite Songs

It's amazing what you never think you'll listen to, until you have kids. Not only do I have this song in my iTunes to play for Jon-Jon whenever he's sitting on my lap at the computer, but I have a whole play list for him. This is maybe his favorite song.

Kaiser Chiefs

Song: "Ruby"
Artist: Kaiser Chiefs
Album: Yours Truly, Angry Mob

If you have Sirius Satellite Radio, and listen to that alt-rock channel, you've probably heard this song about 5 million times. Somehow, even though I no longer subscribe to Sirius, I still didn't tire of this song and wound up buying it. Thanks, Sirius.

Barry White

Song: "Love's Theme"
Artist: Barry White
Album: All-Time Greatest Hits

When my wife and I first started dating, I tried to romance her by playing some Barry White. Let me tell you something...what worked in 1978 does not work in the new millenium. But I still love Barry's music and always will.

My Maria

Song: "My Maria"
Artist: Brooks & Dunn
Album: Brooks & Dunn: The Greatest Hits

The fact that I live in Nashville gives me license to have a few tracks from country music stars, right? Well, it's not my favorite genre, but this cover of a classic country song is more along the lines of pop anyway. Call it a guilty pleasure for me.

Sheep

Song: "Sheep"
Artist: Pink Floyd
Album: Animals

This Pink Floyd album came out as I was exploring different types of music as a teenager. It was a weird concept record that somehow really worked. This track is a ten minute song but has many different parts and manages to be really compelling.

Easy On Me

Song: "Easy On Me"
Artist: Paige Aufhammer
Album: Paige Aufhammer

It's raining outside in Nashville right now, and this song is the perfect mood piece for a rainy day. If you haven't heard Paige yet, check her out if you are into stuff like Mindy Smith or Patty Griffin.

Howard Jones

Song: "Equality"
Artist: Howard Jones
Album: Human's Lib

Howard Jones was one of my favorite artists in the '80's, and I remember seeing him at Jones Beach Theater. During one of the songs the crowd started doing "the wave," to which Jones said, "That's brilliant!" I wonder if he still thinks so.

Girl Can't Help It

Song: "Girl Can't Help It"
Artist: Journey
Album: Raised On Radio

This was the last Journey album before the band split up for a while....and really, for all intents and purposes, this was the last real Journey album of the Steve Perry era. At the time, it wasn't full of hits the way Escape or Frontiers was, but this is still a damn good album.

Optimistic

Song: "Optimistic"
Artist: Radiohead
Album: Kid A

I can't say I'm the biggest Radiohead fan in the world, but you can't argue with the brilliance of some of the band's material. This song rivals anything from the band's best album, The Bends.

Long Train Running Cover

Song: "Long Train Running"
Artist: Bananarama
Album: Pop Life

This song originally done by the Doobie Brothers is incredibly catchy, soulful and foot-stomping at the same time. But girl group Bananarama did a fine job covering it, so much so that I just had to download it.

Spandau Ballet

Song: "Only When You Leave"
Artist: Spandau Ballet
Album: Gold: The Best of Spandau Ballet

Most people are only familiar with the hit song "True," but Spandau Ballet had some more rocking stuff like this. Well, you can call it rocking in a funky Brit Pop sort of way, but I always loved this stuff.

Something Corporate

Song: "Break Myself"
Artist: Something Corporate
Album: North

This is sort of like Warped Tour music meets Butch Walker, with a piano front man. If you can imagine all that and think it's cool, you'll love this band.

Completely Pleased

Song: "Completely Pleased"
Artist: Semisonic
Album: Feeling Strangely Fine

Most people know this band from their hit on this album, "Closing Time," but really this whole record is one of my favorites ever by any band. Future albums aren't as deep, but this one has many great songs including this one. It's just really nice alt-pop.

Out In The Country

Song: "Out In The Country"
Artist: Three Dog Night
Album: Best of Three Dog Night

Now this is a song that takes me back to my childhood.....it came from an era when pop music was criss-crossing genres and revolved around great melodies. The chorus is one that, once you hear it, will stick with you forever.

The Rembrandts

Song: "Just the Way It Is, Baby"
Artist: The Rembrandts
Album: The Rembrandts

Everyone thinks of that annoyingly catchy pop song these guys wrote that became the theme song for "Friends," arguably one of the top shows in TV history. But before that came this jangly, mid-tempo gem which still sounds amazing almost twenty years later.

Chris Isaak

Song: "Go Walking Down There"
Artist: Chris Isaak
Album: Forever Blue

Funny, everyone remembers the video for Isaak's big hit around 1990, with the hot girl dancing on the beach. But for my money, this is his best song. It's ballsy, bluesy and rocking.

Sowing

Song: "Sowing The Seeds of Love"
Artist: Tears For Fears
Album: The Seeds of Love

This wasn't necessarily a comeback album, but instead showed everyone that Tears for Fears was still there. And what a great album it was, and still is.

New York State of Mind

Song: "New York State of Mind"
Artist: Billy Joel
Album: The Essential Billy Joel

I grew up in New York, and haven't lived there in almost twenty years. But when I hear this Billy Joel song, I get a little homesick, and it gives me a deep appreciation for my roots. Not to mention that this is maybe one of the most descriptive and amazing anthems about New York ever. Way to go, Mr. Joel!

Paddy Casey

Song: "Refugee"
Artist: Paddy Casey
Album: Addicted To Company

I'm pretty sure I've posted about this Irish singer/songwriter whose album I reviewed on Bullz-Eye.com. This is one of the best records I've heard in a long time, and easily one of the best of 2008.

Jane Child

Song: "Don't Wanna Fall In Love"
Artist: Jane Child
Album: Jane Child

Perhaps you can put this in the "one-hit wonder" category, and you couldn't be faulted for it. But this song, released in the early '90's, is so good that I don't care how it's labeled. Does anyone know what Jane Child has been up to lately?

Marshall Tucker

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

I grew up in the era when Southern rock was booming in the late '70's. The Marshall Tucker Band was one of the groups I was into, and thirty years later this song, with its cool flute parts, sounds just as good as it did then.

Michelle Featherstone

Song: "Coffee & Cigarettes"
Artist: Michelle Featherstone
Album: One Tree Hill Soundtrack 2

This show has spawned some great artists, and this song from the Soundtrack is a beautiful, riveting piano ballad. I confess I don't know much more about Michelle Featherstone, but I need to research the rest of her catalog.

Rick Derringer

Song: "Jump, Jump, Jump"
Artist: Rick Derringer
Album: All American Boy

Okay, so the premise of this song is really depressing, but the music, in particular Rick's guitar playing, is stellar. This song is from the album that produced "Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo."

Tom Petty

Song: "Even The Losers"
Artist: Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Album: Damn The Torpedoes

Amazingly, guys like Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen both came around in the late '70's when disco was hot and new wave was just about to start. And they've maintained and have been doing it for this long, because they have timeless songs and still put on great rock shows.

Suzanne Vega

Song: "Soap And Water"
Artist: Suzanne Vega
Album: Songs in Red and Gray

If there was ever a breakup song, this is it. It's so depressing yet so compelling at the same time, and even though it might be lesser known work in Suzanne's catalog, it's some of her best work.

Have A Cigar

Song: "Have a Cigar"
Artist: Pink Floyd
Album: Wish You Were Here

Pink Floyd is a classic band that every music fan should own something of. I love so much of what this band has done, but this one ranks right up their as one of my favorites.

Dezeray's Hammer

Song: "Hurt Like I Do"
Artist: Dezeray's Hammer
Album: The Past That Decorates Me

This is one of those bands that doesn't sound like anyone else, but sounds like everyone else. I personally think that's an amazing quality to have, because it sets you apart. I'm not sure what the band is up to now, but this album came out a few years back and was one of the soundtracks to my summer then.

Moments and Memories

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

If you can't pimp yourself, who can you pimp? Check out the title track from my latest acoustic album that was released this past October. Thanks for listening!

Song: "Fanny (Be Tender With My Love)"
Artist: Bee Gees
Album: Tales from the Brothers Gibb

Yeah, putting this song on here might make me look like a tool, but I can't help it. This song is so catchy that once you hear it, it sticks in your head for weeks.

Starship

Song: "I Didn't Mean To Stay All Night"
Artist: Starship
Album: Love Among the Cannibals

Many people think this band sold out with the release of "We Built This City" in 1985. But I've always loved Mickey Thomas' vocals and a lot of the great pop songs this band released, especially on this album.

Amanda

Song: "Amanda"
Artist: Boston
Album: Third Stage

By the time Boston released their third album, eight years had elapsed since their sophomore effort, Don't Look Back. In that time, boys became men, and I know, because I was one of them.
Anyway, this album was almost as good as their first two releases, and this song has now become a staple on classic rock formats everywhere.

All Eyes On Me

Song: "All Eyes on Me"
Artist: Goo Goo Dolls
Album: Dizzy Up The Girl

As much as I liked this band's early stuff, which was less refined and produced, this was and still is my favorite Goo Goo Dolls album. It's one of those that I like every song on it, and takes me back to where I was at the time I first heard it, about a decade ago (yikes).

Cover Tunes

Song: "The Reaper"
Artist: Alana Davis
Album: Surrender Dorothy

My buddy Josh Preston is working on a covers album, and it made me think of some of my favorite covers that have been released in the mainstream. One of the best, in my opinion, is Alana Davis' cover of Blue Oyster Cult's "The Reaper." The arrangement is amazing and Alana's got such a cool voice. Check it out!

Don't Change

Song: "Don't Change"
Artist: INXS
Album: Shabooh Shoobah

For whatever reason, this song is not exactly the most recognized in INXS' catalog, but to me, it's not only one of their best, but one of the great rock songs of our time.

Al Green

Song: "All I Need"
Artist: Al Green
Album: Lay It Down

Hard to believe this legendary artist is still making music, and he still has it. This may be Mr. Green's best batch of songs since the '70's. Just the kind of soothing R&B I need after being on vacation for a week and trying to ease back into work mode.

Tori Amos

Song: "A Sorta Fairytale"
Artist: Tori Amos
Album: Scarlet's Walk

I had the privelege of opening for Tori when I lived and performed in Cleveland about six or seven years ago. It was one of the coolest experiences ever, and she's got a very passionate fan base that actually dug my set. Anyway, this is one of my favorites of Tori's.

Aja

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

For all of the great songs that Steely Dan has released over the years, there was no better complete album than this one, with every song sounding like it's part of the whole package, and every track a good one. This is also one of those bands that everyone knows immediately when they hear them.

Juliana Theory

Song: "Is Patience Still Waiting?"
Artist: Juliana Theory
Album: Emotion Is Dead

I remember when I first started writing for Bullz-Eye.com, I received a box of upcoming releases from a major label, and this was one of them. It was one of those albums that you pop in your player and just love instantly, thus making it a very pleasant surprise, like you've just found a hidden treasure. I'm pretty sure Juliana Theory (a band, not a woman) broke up, but this is still one of the best alt-rock albums you've probably never heard of.

Turn Off the Stars

Song: "If Only"
Artist: Turn Off The Stars
Album: Turn Off The Stars

This is one of those really cool indie, under the radar bands that still manages to write catchy yet cool pop stuff. Check 'em out!

Brothermandude

Song: "The Sun"
Artist: Brothermandude
Album: Album

I'm not kidding, this album is called Album. And the band has an even weirder name, but the music is really cool. I should preface that, most of this album is really cool, and this was one of
the two tracks that made it onto my iTunes.

The Chain

Song: "The Chain"
Artist: Fleetwood Mac
Album: Rumours

This has to be one of my favorite albums of all-time, and I don't think there is a bad song on it. The last 30 seconds or so of this track, when the song really kicks in, is the best part.

The Producers

Song: "What's He Got"
Artist: The Producers
Album: The Producers and You Make the Heat

This stuff isn't available on iTunes but I was able to find it recently. The Producers have two songs from the '80's that I absolutely love...this one and "She Sheila." It's just really catchy pop/rock.

Breaking Laces

Song: "Shack Up SOS"
Artist: Breaking Laces
Album: Lemonade

I have the privlege of doing PR work for this great indie band from New York City. If this was the seventies, this band would be huge. They not only know how to write timeless melodies, but their arrangements and precision playing are what has kept them together for almost a decade. Check them out if you haven't already.

David Pack

Song: Vertical Disbelief (That's Not Me)
Artist: David Pack
Album: The Secret of Movin' On

You may not recognize the name, but David Pack was the long-time lead singer for pop band Ambrosia. His voice is pretty easy to spot, and he really has a knack for catchy melody, even if his light rock genre isn't your thing.

Katy Rose

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

So I proclaimed Katy as the new "it" girl a few years ago, and she promptly dropped of the face of the earth. But she was 16 when this album came out, and it's just a great pop/rock album --nothing like the bubblegum of today's female popsters.

Carly

Song: "Beautiful You"
Artist: Carly Hennessy
Album: Ultimate High

You might recognize the face, but not the name. This is American Idol finalist Carly Smithson, who released an album in 1999. It was produced by The New Radicals' Gregg Alexander, and well, pretty much sounds like Carly fronting The New Radicals. Which, to me, is really a good thing.

Innocent

Song: "Innocent"
Artist: Fuel
Album: Something Like Human

Fuel is a band that labels and radio programmers have molded into sounding like every other band on "active rock" radio these days. But their earlier stuff, like this, stands out to me. It just has more depth and melody and heartfelt musical punch, and, well, I still love listening to it.

Toby Lightman

Song: "Better"
Artist: Toby Lightman
Album: Bird on a Wire

Toby Lightman is a pop artist with jazz and r&b flavors. Think Norah Jones with a bit more infused soul. Mostly, Ms. Lightman is an amazing singer and songwriter who has somehow managed to stay under the radar. Hopefully she'll break out big eventually, but if not, you can still go buy her music.

Laurie Sargent

Song: "Without Letting Go"
Artist: Laurie Sargent
Album: Party of Five Soundtrack

Laurie Sargent is the former lead singer for pop/rock band Face to Face, who were popular for a short time in the '80's. If you can find an old Face to Face record somewhere, it's worth checking out, because they flat out rocked. This song is more subdued, but Laurie has a really unique voice that will hook you in.

Mark Selby

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

This album came out a few years back by Mark Selby, a well-known and respected songwriter in Nashville. If you dig good songwriting, pick this one up...it's got an old-school pop meets Americana feel. Mark and his wife have written hits by the likes of the Dixie Chicks.

John Mayer Can Play

Song: "Vultures"
Artist: John Mayer
Album: Continuum

If you need proof that John Mayer can play guitar, listen to this song. I mean, this guy takes a lot of abuse from critics, especially from dudes who think they are too cool to listen to him. But let me tell you...not only can this guy sing and write timeless pop, he can play the guitar like a freaking madman.

One more comment. Mayer and Josh Rouse would have been HUGE in the '70's...I'm just sayin'.

Monta

Song: "Good Morning Stranger"
Artist: Monta
Album: The Brilliant Masses

This is a really pretty, rainy day type song. It's lo-fi, melodic and just oozes cool. This is just one of those really great, under the radar type songs in my collection.

Anything Can Happen

Song: "Anything Can Happen"
Artist: The Finn Brothers
Album: Everyone Is Here

Anything Neil Finn touches is melodic, bordering on brilliant. And this album he did with his brother Tim a few years ago is just awesome.

All You Zombies

Song: "All You Zombies"
Artist: The Hooters
Album: Nervous Night

Talk about ear candy. The Hooters could write ear candy in their sleep, but more than that, this stuff was way cool. I think they have broke up and reunited a few times since the mid-80s, but either way, this album is still their best work.

Rebel Yell

Song: "Rebel Yell"
Artist: Billy Idol
Album: Rebel Yell

I've always loved how this song absolutely rocks. It's a perfect track to get you ready for the weekend too!

Matthew Good

Song: "Deep Six"
Artist: Matthew Good
Album: Beautiful Midnight

I'm pretty sure I've already written about this guy before, but either way, this Matthew Good album is one of my all-time faves by anyone. It's grungy, depressing, alt-rock that somehow comes off as uplifting. I can't describe it, but it's just really powerful music. Check it out if you don't own it, you'll know exactly what I mean.

3 Libras

Song: "3 Libras"
Artist: A Perfect Circle
Album: Mer de Noms

Have you ever gone through your iTunes "Top 25 Most Played" list? I just did and this track was the most played, at 103 times. Actually it's really interesting to see, and even though I love this song and album, I wouldn't have expected it to be my most played.

Low Millions

Song: "Hey Jane"
Artist: Low Millions
Album: Ex Girlfriends

I really dug the debut from this band a few years ago, and they kept spinning the songs on the local AAA station here in Nashville, Lightning 100. This is great radio pop the way it used to be, but of course Low Millions didn't catch on big. At least not yet.

Ferras

Song: "Blame, Blame, Blame"
Artist: Ferras
Album: Aliens & Rainbows

You've heard this Capitol artist if you watch "American Idol," because his song "Hollywood's Not America" was the exit song for a few episodes. This guy is not the Daniel Powter type though, he's more rock along the lines of Something Corporate....catchy as hell and solid.

Tonight, Tonight

Song: "Tonight, Tonight"
Artist: Smashing Pumpkins
Album: Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness

This is one of those records that is etched in my mind from the mid-nineties, and when I hear it I can feel where I was at the time. I think we'll look back at this album as one of the great ones from the decade, if we're not doing that already.

Tattoo

Song: "Tattoo"
Artist: Novo Combo
Album: Novo Combo

Yeah, I know Jordin Sparks has a single called "Tattoo," but this song with the same name is more my speed. Novo Combo delivered new wavey-pop that makes you remember the days when men were men and music was music, instead of all the over-produced crap ruling the airwaves today.

Sponge

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


Some albums remind me of the year they were released, or in which I became hip to them...in this case, it was 1999 when I discovered this incredible album by Sponge, which a lot of you have probably, unfortunately, never heard. But go check them out!

Sarah M

Song: "Black and White"
Artist: Sarah McLachlan
Album: Surfacing

Many of you guys may make fun of me for having Sarah Mac on my iTunes, or for calling her Sarah Mac. But let me tell you....this album is one of my all-time faves by any artist, period. It's not all girly, but rather brooding and dark and melodic all the way around.

Rosie's Lullaby

Song: "Rosie's Lullaby"
Artist: Norah Jones
Album: Not Too Late

Sometimes I come across songs in my iTunes that I didn't know were there....this is one of them. I just love Norah's velvety voice...this is easy listening for today's music fan for sure.

Foghat

Song: "Easy Money"
Artist: Foghat
Album: Stone Blue

This is one of those tracks that I bought because I was feeling nostalgic. Foghat was one of the first rock bands that I listened to as a teenager, when I started getting into heavier stuff.

Doobies

Song: "Another Park, Another Sunday"
Artist: Doobie Brothers
Album: Live at Wolf Trap

I know this song will lose any street cred I may have had, but that's okay. I have lots of classic rock in my iTunes because I grew up in the 70's and 80's. And the Doobie Brothers' music always makes me feel good.

BTE

Song: "Beautiful Mistake"
Artist: Better Than Ezra
Album: How Does Your Garden Grow? (iTunes)

I know I wrote about these guys last week, but I love this album so much it was worth another post. There are like 8 or 9 songs on this record that are just timeless and awesome.

Tristan Prettyman

Song: "Madly"
Artist: Tristan Prettyman
Album: n/a

I really dig singer/songwriter Tristan Prettyman, who is a not a man, but she sure is pretty. Check out her new single available as a free download on iTunes this week.

All My Friends

Song: "All My Friends"
Artist: Our Lady Peace
Album: Spiritual Machines

Canadian alt-rock band Our Lady Peace has been around for about fifteen years now, and though they have had bigger albums, this one ranks as my favorite. This song in particular is particularly creepy and beautiful at the same time.

Budapest

Song: "Look You In the Eye"
Artist: Budapest
Album: Too Blind To Hear

I'm not sure what happened this dude, another of those singer/songwriters that goes under a moniker such as Magnet. Anyway, this album came out around 2000 or 2001 and it's really good, brooding, alt-rock.

Breaking Laces

Song: "Plain Jane"
Artist: Breaking Laces
Album: Sohcahtoa

I heard about this band through a friend, and now I have the pleasure of representing them as their publicist. This is still my favorite song of theirs, though the Laces have released a couple more albums since then. Check them out, please!

So Far Away

Song: "So Far Away" (Buy this song on iTunes)
Artist: Carole King
Album: Tapestry

Carole King is simply one of the best songwriters of the last few decades, and this is her signature album. Like 35 years later, it still sounds just as good as it did then.

James

Song: "James"
Artist: Josh Rouse
Album: 1972

Josh Rouse is one of my favorite artists and this is probably my favorite of his albums. The album is aptly titled because every song has a retro '70's feel to it...really great stuff.

Better Than Ezra

Song: "At The Stars" (iTunes)
Artist: Better Than Ezra
Album: How Does Your Garden Grow?

I may have mentioned these guys before, but they are one of my all-time favorite bands. They've only released two albums in the current decade, and in my opinion this one, their third, was their best. There isn't a song on it I don't like, and this one really hits home for me.

Just Another

Song: "Just Another"
Artist: Pete Yorn
Album: Musicforthemorningafter

This Pete Yorn album is one of my favorite by any singer/songwriter, ever. It's kind of under the radar, even in my own collection, but I know it's there.

Norman Brown

Song: "Let's Take a Ride"
Artist: Norman Brown
Album: Stay With Me

There are a bunch of songs in my iTunes that are the smooth jazz, Wave Radio fare....and I love having stuff like this on here, especially to listen to on Sunday mornings. I'm not sure why, but it's just something I have to have.

Jason Spooner

Song: "The Flame You Follow"
Artist: Jason Spooner
Album: The Flame You Follow

This is hands down one of my favorite albums of 2008 so far. It's breezy, 70's inspired pop along the lines of Paul Simon, with maybe a modern day flavor ala Josh Rouse. Every song on the record is good, but this title track is really amazing.

Lisa Papineau

Song: "Saxophone/Calypso"
Artist: Lisa Papineau
Album: Lisa Papineau

The debut album from this artist just oozes cool....it's kind of electro, kind of alternative, kind of pop and kind of jazz. Lisa has a great voice, and some pretty amazing tunes. I think this is her debut album and the only one that I know of and it was released about two years ago. Check it out if you like that sort of thing.

The Shins

Song: "Australia" (Amazon)
Artist: The Shins
Album: Wincing The Night Away

There are some songs and albums that are instantly catchy, and then there are some by bands like The Shins. These songs age like a fine wine and, as a result, I never tire of them. It's one of those albums you look back on and appreciate the fact that it's bordering on brilliant.

Black Tide

Song: "Light From Above"
Artist: Black Tide
Album: Light From Above

My editor for Bullz-Eye.com told me I had to check these guys out, because they're teenagers and can SHRED. He was right...they are like a young Iron Maiden, and that's no exaggeration.
Check them out now if you're into that kind of thing...for me, it's what I grew up on...melodic, guitar-driven metal.

Rain

Song: "Rain"
Artist: Patty Griffin
Album: 1000 Kisses

After Flaming Red, which is one of my favorite albums of all-time, Patty Griffin went back to more of her acoustic roots on 1000 Kisses. And while it's not my favorite work of hers, this song is absolutely riveting. And it's perfect soundtrack-wise as we're expecting rain all day here in Nashville.

The Coal Men

Song: "Natural Wonder"
Artist: The Coal Men
Album: Beauty Is A Moment

I just started doing PR for this great Nashville band called The Coal Men...if you've never heard of them, do yourself a favor and become familiar with them now.....they have a rootsy, Ryan Adams-like rock vibe, and some amazing songs.

Glorious Day

Song: "Glorious Day"
Artist: Weezer
Album: Green Album

This is one of the few albums I can honestly listen to from beginning to end. There is not a clunker on it. And why not "Glorious Day," in honor of April Fool's Day? Happy April 1 to you all, no joke!

Maybe It Was Memphis

Song: "Maybe It Was Memphis"
Artist: Pam Tillis
Album: Put Yourself in My Place

After spending a rain-soaked day in Memphis with my wife and friends to see the New York Mets play, eat some ribs and watch some music on Beale Street, it's worth mentioning this song by Pam Tillis. I don't have a ton of country music in my iTunes, but this is one of my favorite tunes in the genre or in any genre.

Graham Colton

Song: "Jessica"
Artist: Graham Colton
Album: Graham Colton

Great debut album from this artist who for whatever reason still hasn't broken out huge. He's got smart, edgy pop songs along the lines of Matchbox Twenty.....a crowded genre, sure, but few of those artists that are similar write songs this good.

Fishbone

Song: "Freddy's Dead"
Artist: Fishbone
Album: Truth and Soul

These guys just oozed cool (ooze, if they are still together!).....this song is funky, heavy, and catchy all at the same time, and one of my faves from the late '80's.

In Pursuit

Song: "In Pursuit"
Artist: The Rosenbergs
Album: Mission: You

I interviewed singer David Fagin of The Rosenbergs a few years ago for Bullz-Eye.com, and while I'm now reviewing his solo record, I thought it was worth mentioning this gem of a song from that Rosenbergs release. Great indie pop stuff.

Todd

Song: "Cold Morning Light"
Artist: Todd Rundgren
Album: Something/Anything?

Is there a more distinguished sound/voice in pop/rock music as Todd Rundgren's? I mean, he had some incredible songs in the '70's and maybe the '80's, songs that are etched in our culture and are, well, amazing. This is a lesser known track I recently came across...the beauty of iTunes is that you can rediscover some favorite artists and grab a song for 99 cents.

Ten Years Gone

Song: "Ten Years Gone"
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Album: Physical Graffiti

When all is said and done, and with all of the great Led Zeppelin albums and songs, I think the songs on Physical Graffiti are almost as good as the songs on the self-titled fourth album. Along with this one, I also love "Kashmir," "The Rover," and "Trampled Under Foot." Amazing, amazing stuff, and I never get sick of hearing Jimmy Page play his Les Paul.

Sweet Pea

Song: "Sweet Pea"
Artist: Amos Lee
Album: Supply and Demand

I think I wrote about Amos Lee's new album yesterday and it reminded me about this song that he released on his last record that has garnered national attention from a TV commercial. It's also my son's favorite song, along with "Rubber Duckie" and "C is for Cookie."

Kid

Song: "Kid"
Artist: Amos Lee
Album: Last Days at the Lodge

I'm lucky enough to work in the music business, because I receive advances of great music all the time. Case in point, Amos Lee's latest, Last Days at the Lodge, and this song, which is already one of my faves of 2008. This guy is just awesome.

Driver's Seat

Song: "Driver's Seat"
Artist: Sniff & The Tears
Album: Fickle Heart

My older brother listened to a lot of what I thought was weird music back in the day, and when he told me about Sniff & The Tears, I started laughing at the name. Then I heard it, and loved it, especially this first single. And I was happy when I finally came across it digitally. Great stuff, and great memories.

Green

Song: "Green"
Artist: ViV
Album: Flawed

I had the pleasure of repping this San Francisco band a few years back, and this album still ranks very high on my all-time faves. The band is not together anymore, which kind of sucks, but that doesn't mean you can't still look for this album and purchase it, because, trust me, it's pretty amazing. And this is the perfect song title for St. Paddy's Day.

Burlap

Song: "Eileen's Song"
Artist: Burlap To Cashmere
Album: Anybody Out There?

This is a really great, breezy song with pretty melody and nice harmonies. Unfortunately the group didn't do much, and from what I remember this was the only song that stood out on the record. But it's totally worth grabbing the download for 99 cents.

Wayne

Song: "Take Me Home"
Artist: Wayne
Album: Music On Plastic

I don't know what ever happened to this Birmingham band but I absolutely loved this album, which came out about five years ago. I'll have to do some digging now and report back!

Invent

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

Since SXSW is going on right now, I'll mention this song by an artist I first discovered at SXSW in Austin back in 2000. He's still making music, but in my opinion this was Peter Searcy's best album, and this was the best song on that album.

Daughtry

Song: "Breakdown"
Artist: Daughtry
Album: Daughtry

Chris Daughtry should have won "American Idol" a couple years ago, but the fact that he didn't may have helped his career even more. His album sold millions of copies and he's having almost as much success as Kelly Clarkson or Carrie Underwood, and definitely more than Taylor Hicks, who won the same season. Anyway, it's been played out like crazy, but this album is really good.

Ladyfingers

Song: "Ladyfingers"
Artist: Luscious Jackson
Album: Electric Honey

Jill Cunniff released a solo album last year, but a few years before that she was in a group called Luscious Jackson. This was that band's most recognizable song, and it's still a favorite of mine.

Rogue Wave

Song: "Chicago X 12"
Artist: Rogue Wave
Album: Asleep at Heaven's Gate

I love love love this band. I saw them at SXSW in 2006, and their latest album is their best yet....it's just beautiful alterna-pop that you'll feel cool listening to, but that people won't think you're weird for listening to either.

Late

Song: "Late"
Artist: Ben Folds
Album: Songs For Silverman

I'm a huge fan of Ben's, and while his favorite album of mine is the Ben Folds Five release, Whatever & Ever Amen, there were a few songs on this more recent release that stood out, including this one.

A Perfect Circle

Song: "Orestes"
Artist: A Perfect Circle
Album: Mer de Noms

This is one of my favorite albums, though not typically the kind of stuff I like. It's brooding, dark, alternative, grungy rock that just somehow delivers as powerfully as any heavy rock album ever has. At least to me.

Louque

Song: "Art"
Artist: Louque
Album: So Long

I think this dude went by a band name, and I'm not sure if he's done anything since this album came out....but I have two of the songs from it in my iTunes and it's pretty cool, ambient alt-pop.

Mike Previti

Song: "In Again"
Artist: Mike Previti
Album: Extraordinary

I found this guy while searching iTunes for Franke Previte, of Franke & the Knockouts fame. I'm not sure if this guy is related or not, because the name is spelled differently...but it sure wouldn't surprise me, because this song in particular has those same soaring hooks that Franke penned back in the day.

Five Times August

Song: "Giving It All To You"
Artist: Five Times August
Album: Brighter Side

I'm reviewing this one for Bullz-Eye.com, and at first listen I think it's already going to be one of my favorites for 2008. Great pop/rock, with hooks that just soar. It's what good pop should sound like. Stay tuned...

Ma Nuts

Song: "Got Ma Nuts From a Hippy"
Artist: The Fratellis
Album: Costello Music

This was a really great, happy, lively album that came out in 2007...easily one of my favorites of the year. But with this particular song, you just have to like it for the title alone.

Good Day

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

The Replacements' lead singer has one of the coolest voices in rock, and this was a really nice piano ballad from his solo album released in the mid-nineties. Hearing anything Westerberg or his band do always puts me in a good mood.

Tim Mahoney

Song: "Big Hit Song"
Artist: Tim Mahoney
Album: Stay/Leave

I represent a great pop/rock artist from Minneapolis named Tim Mahoney, and it still boggles my mind to know that he's not signed to a label. But Tim keeps plugging away and is always gaining fans and admirers everywhere. He did a song on his latest album called "Big Hit Song" that is kind of a tongue-in-cheek knock on the music industry, and how they are always looking for the next hit because everyone in the business has a short-term memory now. Anyway, here is a link to Tim's song and you really should check his music out if you haven't yet.

The Appleseed Cast

Song: "February"
Artist: The Appleseed Cast
Album: Peregrine

It's a dreary day here in Nashville, and it's February. Perfect time for this brooding alt-rock song by The Appleseed Cast, titled, what else? "February."

Sultans

Song: "Sultans of Swing"
Artist: Dire Straits
Album: Dire Straits

This was Dire Straits' first single, and it reminds me of the winter in which I first heard it, I'm pretty sure 1979. Actually I can vividly remember three songs from that time that stand out as some of my all-time faves...this one, and you'll have to wait till tomorrow for the next one!

The Republic Tigers

Song: "Buildings & Mountains"
Artist: The Republic Tigers
Album: The Republic Tigers

Alexandra Patsavas has made a nice career for herself as a music supervisor for "The OC" and "Grey's Anatomy." Now, she has started her own record label, and why not? It's a natural next step for her, and she surely has an ear for talent. The Republic Tigers are no exception to that rule.

Paddy Casey

Song: "Become Apart"
Artist: Paddy Casey
Album: Addicted To Company

I'm currently reviewing this album for Bullz-Eye.com, and the more I listen the more it grows on me. Casey has a Josh Rouse meets Paul Simon feel to his music, and it's just awesome.

Long Time Gone

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

With harmonies that are as recognizable as any in music, Crosby, Stills & Nash made some incredible music back in the day. I remember my sister blaring this stuff loudly from her room when I was a kid, and I remember digging it. Needless to say, I still do!

Carly

Song: "What I've Found"
Artist: Carly Hennessy
Album: Ultimate High

I've been blogging about "American Idol," and this one even slipped right past me. My colleague Will Harris pointed it out yesterday though, and it's worth noting. Carly, recorded this album a few years back with Gregg Alexander and Danielle Brisbois of New Radicals fame, is now Carly Smithson. She is one of the 24 finalists on this season's "American Idol" and totally, completely worth keeping an eye on. She's got an absolute monster voice.

Lavina

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

I have a few songs from this album that I've had on my iTunes for quite a while, but it wasn't until I went through my CD collection recently that I uncovered this gem. Josh Rouse is an amazing singer/songwriter, and if you haven't heard him yet, by all means what are you waiting for?

Jainy

Song: "Jainy"
Artist: Five For Fighting
Album: America Town

I'm pretty sure this is about a hooker, and a dude who falls in love with a hooker, but it's still got a really pretty melody and piano part.

Suzanne Vega

Song: "Undertow"
Artist: Suzanne Vega
Album: Suzanne Vega

It's hard to believe Suzanne Vega has been making music for over 20 years, but I picked up her debut album on VINYL in 1986. Yikes. Anyway, there is some dark, wintry quality about Vega's music, and her voice is hypnotizing and beautiful, especially on this sparsely produced album.

Sell The Lie

Song: "Sell The Lie"
Artist: The Damnwells
Album: Air Stereo

I haven't pimped these guys lately, but they are worth constant pimping for sure. The Damnwells are probably my favorite rock band at the moment, and if you hear them, there is a good chance you'll feel the same way. So go check 'em out!

Margot

Song: "On a Freezing Chicago Street"
Artist: Margot & The Nuclear So and So's
Album: The Dust of Retreat

This song is appropriate because Chicago got pelted with snow yesterday. But also because this band is one of the better under the radar bands you'll ever hear, provided you can get past their long emo name.

Aftermath

Song: "Aftermath"
Artist: The Alternate Routes
Album: Good and Reckless and True

One of my favorite bands that for some odd reason remains under the radar. Such is the music business. Anyway, the reason I chose this particular song is that it's now three days after the Giants won the Super Bowl, and New York as well as Giants Nation is still gloating and on cloud nine, including yours truly, a lifelong Giants fan.

Franke

Song: "Sweetheart"
Artist: Franke & the Knockouts
Album: Franke & the Knockouts

Before he made millions co-writing the bigget hits from "Dirty Dancing," Franke Previte fronted a band called Franke & The Knockouts. If you listen to this stuff now, from the early '80s, it sounds dated. But it's infectious, it's well-written material, and Previte has one of the best rock voices you may have never heard.

We Are The Champions

Song: "We Are The Champions"
Artist: Queen
Album: News Of The World

Giants 17, Patriots 14. The greatest football game I have ever seen. I played this song on my answering machine when the Mets won the '86 World Series and when the Giants won the '86 Super Bowl. And here we are again. GO GIANTS!

New York

Song: "New York State of Mind"
Artist: Billy Joel
Album: Turnstiles

This is a really incredible song, and I'm not just saying that because I was born in New York. But it has special meaning this weekend, as we root for the New York Giants in the Super Bowl. Go G-Men!!!

Victorious?

Song: "Victorious"
Artist: Chicago
Album: Chicago 19

This is a slow, pulsing, pretty song by this classic band that you probably haven't heard yet. And it's on here because I hope my Giants are VICTORIOUS on Sunday in Super Bowl XLII.

Tift

Song: "My Heart Is Free"
Artist: Tift Merritt
Album: Another Country

She's an "alt-country" artist with flavors ranging from Joni Mitchell to Sheryl Crow to Bonnie Raitt to Aimee Mann to Emmylou Harris. But most of all, Tift Merritt is a damn good singer and songwriter, and her new album is really worth checking out. Oh wait, it's not out until February 26, but I have scored an advance copy.

The Giant

Song: "The Giant"
Artist: Fielding
Album: Fielding

Ah, I found another song to pay tribute to my favorite team, the New York Giants, who are in the Super Bowl this coming weekend. Fielding is an indie band, at least last time I checked they were, but have some really cool songs including this one. Go Giants!

Giant

Song: "Giant"
Artist: Matthew Good
Album: Beautiful Midnight

You know why I picked this song, don't you? I'm a huge New York Giants' fan and have been since I was a kid. And my boys are in the Super Bowl this week. Go G-men! Oh, and this song is really good, too.

Bite Your Tongue

Song: "Bite Your Tongue"
Artist: Duncan Sheik
Album: Humming

Duncan Sheik has had a bit of an under the radar career, but he's done pretty well as a recording artist and touring musician. This was my favorite track from an album he released late in the '90s and for some weird reason reminds me of winter.

ABC

Song: "Poison Arrow"
Artist: ABC
Album: The Lexicon of Love

ABC was one of those first "new wave" bands to rule the MTV airwaves in the early '80s. And they were among several bands like Flock of Seagulls, Men at Work, and Haircut 100, that I really dug upon first hearing them.

The Clarks

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

If you're from Pittsburgh, or surrounding regional markets like Cleveland or Philly, chances are you are very familiar with The Clarks. This great rock/pop band has been making music for over 20 years, and they know their way around a hook, too. And I thought this song was appropriate for winter.

Livin' Thing

Song: "Livin' Thing"
Artist: Electric Light Orchestra
Album: A New World Record

ELO is one of those bands whose music defined the '70s. And this song is one that stands out to me, still sounding as amazing today as it did thirty years ago. The way this group used orchestration was pretty much ahead of its time.

Just One Victory

Song: "Just One Victory"
Artist: Todd Rundgren
Album: A Wizard, A True Star

I'm at huge New York Giants fan. Last night they upset the Green Bay Packers in frigid Lambeau Field, and are going to the Super Bowl against the unbeaten New England Patriots. Wow. So, Giants players and coaches and fans, this one is for you. Let's get JUST ONE VICTORY more. Sing it, Todd.....

Urgent

Song: "Urgent"
Artist: Foreigner
Album: 4

This song was probably played out and probably still is on classic rock radio stations. But there's something so infectious about it. The guitars, in particular, bounce around the vocals and, well, this is just a really good rock song. Lou Gramm has always had a great voice too.

Somebody Else's Song

Song: "Somebody Else's Song"
Artist: Lifehouse
Album: No Name Face

I know I've written about Lifehouse before, and in particular their debut album which I think is their best. The band is playing a lot of high-profile events lately, and their sound has become very commercialized. But I still love this debut record.

Taylor Hicks

Song: "The Maze"
Artist: Taylor Hicks
Album: Taylor Hicks

In honor of "American Idol" kicking off its seventh season last night, here's a song by Season 5 champ Taylor Hicks. Hicks lost his record deal just days before Season 7 began, but I have to say, there are some great songs on his debut, including this one. It's just solid, soulful, pop.

Come Back To Bed

Song: "Come Back To Bed"
Artist: John Mayer
Album: Heavier Things

You can take this two ways.....calling your significant other back for a little fun, or to pull the covers over your eyes and catch more sleep. I'm tired today, so I'm imagining the latter when I hear this song, which is actually one of Mayer's best bluesy pop tunes.

Tears For Fears

Song: "Everybody Wants to Rule The World"
Artist: Tears For Fears
Album: Songs From the Big Chair

This song reminds me of 1985 when I was finishing up college. Tears For Fears had been around for a few years at this point, but this was their breakout hit. It's also one of those timeless alt-rock songs that I first heard on epic Long Island radio station WLIR.

Landslide

Song: "Landslide"
Artist: Fleetwood Mac
Album: Fleetwood Mac

Many artists have tried to cover this song, including Smashing Pumpkins and The Dixie Chicks, but the original is still the best--Stevie Nicks fronting Fleetwood Mac. This track is as timeless and beautiful as any song, ever.

Lindsey Lohan

Song: "A Little More Personal"
Artist: Lindsey Lohan
Album: A Little More Personal

Yeah, everyone knows her from the tabloids and from rehab stints. But Lindsey Lohan, despite a mediocre acting career, put out this rocking album a couple years back. This song really rocks, and no, I'm not joking.

Snow Day

Song: "Snow Day"
Artist: Lisa Loeb
Album: The Purple Tape

I'm reviewing this album right now for Bullz-Eye.com, and while I always like Lisa's stuff, this acoustic album of re-issue type stuff is really good. I figured I'd post this song in particular, since it's January and many of you are looking out your windows to snow on the ground.

Paige Aufhammer

Song: "Coffee"
Artist: Paige Aufhammer
Album: Paige Aufhammer

This breathy singer/songwriter released her debut in 2007, and it was one of the more unheralded yet really great records of the year. This song in particular is really compelling, and will remind you a lot of Mindy Smith.

Happy Birthday

Song: "Happy Birthday"
Artist: The Click Five
Album: Modern Minds and Pastimes

This young pop/rock band writes such infectious songs, you can't help but sing along in a matter of minutes. They kind of remind me of a young Fountains of Wayne, and this is from their most recent album that came out in mid-2007.

David Gray

Song: "Babylon"
Artist: David Gray
Album: White Ladder

Quick, name more than one David Gray song. Yeah, I can't either, but this one is good enough to let that slide. Dude has a really compelling voice and this track has timeless melodies.

Man on the Corner

Song: "Man On The Corner"
Artist: Genesis
Album: Abacab

I'm not really a fan of Phil Collins' solo stuff, but in his heyday with Genesis there was some incredible music made. This song had some mild success, but it has the distinction of just being timeless and thought-provoking.

New Year's Day

Song: "New Year's Day"
Artist: U2
Album: War

Since yesterday was, well, New Year's Day, this song is fitting. I also think it's the best U2 song ever. They just don't rock with that same angry, alternative vibe they used to.