1. Radney Foster - A Little Revival - Album "Revival"
Now unfortunately, the album won't hit the store shelves until September 1st, but in case you were wondering whatever happened to Radney Foster, well, the man is still bringing it. The first song released off the new album "A Little Revival" is a roadhouse healing. Seriously, when I first heard it, I had to check and make sure the Randy Rogers band wasn't the backing band on this song. Great tune, and Radney continues his amazing career.
2. 56 Men - I Call You -- Album "56 Men"
56 Men comes to us from Philadelphia. Check your I-Pod out, I bet there is nothing in there that sounds even remotely close to this. If you are looking for something "different" then this is it. Just a fantastic unique sound.
3. The Nadas - Hammer Down -- Album "MMVIII"
The Nadas are one of those very diverse bands, if there really is such a term. One song is a legitimate pop song really that could be a smash, the next is Southern Rock. Really neat stuff. This band calls Des Moines, Iowa home. Not quite the sound I thought would come from Iowa, but ok then, that's why we search.
4. The Devil Makes Three - Aces And Twos -- Album "Do Wrong Right"
I guess the closest you could get to trying to fit The Devil Makes Three into a category, you could say acid-bluegrass. There are the undertones of a bluegrass band in there, but so much more added in that it could have only been conceived after dropping a tab. Really. Such a cool vibe in this song. Maybe described as Psychadelic Old Crow Medicine Show.
5. Israel Nash Gripka - Evening -- Album "New York Town"
Obviously from New York, ladies and gentlemen, the winner of the Ryan Adams sound-alike contest is Israel Nash Gripka. Really, it's pretty uncanny. Great voice, great lyrics and overall a fabulous band that sadly, still hasn't received that big break but is more deserving than most of the bands that actually get that chance. Ok, now before you listen, think of what it would sound like if Ryan Adams and Brandon Jenkins could mix their voices into one. Radical right? Yeah folks, that's Israel Gripka.
6. Thunderado - Dumbin' Down The Numbers -- Album "Thunderado"
When you hear this song, you are gonna be shocked that Thunderado comes from Houston, Texas. In a town where all the good music has been evaporated by the corporate machine, resides Thunderado. Southern...rock...blues...just plain good stuff folks. Who the heck knows what this tune is about, and really who even cares? That's what makes it true....I guess.
7. Russ Brown - Fall Into Memphis -- Album "The Fugitive Peace"
If you twisted my arm and ask me to tell you my favorite song I've heard this month, it would be this one. There is such a desperation in Russ Brown's voice that you will feel your heart for this character. This song should be on my top lists for songs in 2009. Absolutely amazing. Russ, by the way, is from Minneapolis. This song, at least, reminds me of something that will be covered by the Drive By Truckers very soon. That dark, haunting, desperate sound.
8. Roman Candle - Modern Radio Is A-Ok -- Album "Oh Tall Tree In The Ear"
Another one of those dang "different" songs. Reminds me a bit of a Jeremy Fisher/Wilco/Jayhawks sound. Really hard to categorize, I just know I like it, and hopefully you will too. A little pop, but I think we can all relate to this one. From Chapel Hill....yeah, that one. For those of you who basically worship music, this one is for you.
9. Jack County - Mr. Me -- Album "Lonesome Radio"
Jack County, as you probably expected is from Texras. This one is really just for the guys. Girls will find it humorous though that we pretty much all end up thinking like this most of the day. Yeah, we're pretty ignorant most of the time, but thanks for putting up with us. Yeah, the band could use maybe a few more years, but I honestly think that's what makes this song perfect. Sounds like a young guy who still hasn't got it all figured out.
10. Bill Noonan - Wasn't Meant To Be -- Album "The Man That I Can't Be"
From Charlotte, North Carolina. Bill is an older guy, if I had to guess by his picture, I would say 40's, maybe even 50's in musician years. Good "soul" to his voice. I really appreciate how he can bring me into that scene with his words. Been there, can relate. It's one of the most difficult situations in your life, and if you've been through it, this song hurts.
So, there you have it. Truly appreciate those of you that actually check these out. Again, I love to find new cool stuff and share it...and we do so at
WWW.MANDATORYFM.COM
Shayne Hollinger
shayne@mandatoryfm.com
Program/Music Director
Mandatory FM