Song of the Month
(Hopefully) something new for you to check out

"Up" by Jason Mraz

How could you not like a song that starts "A little like Gene Wilder... coming out of the tower... in a glass elevator that could take you all the way to the sky"?  I love the Wonka reference, the horns, and the 70's-style groove.

Featured Artist: The Beatles
A few tracks from one of my all-time faves

I've been waiting for years to have the Beatles available for download and now they're here (iTunes has them but Amazon doesn't).  Why?  There are so many good Beatles songs it's ridiculous, John and Paul are incredible songwriters, and the lads weren't too bad at playing their instruments.  Oh, and on top of that they had one of the best band names ever.  Check out my (tough-to-narrow-down) list of the Top 10 Beatles Songs and let me know what you think of my selections of their best.

The Gem
A lesser-known song that deserves more attention

"Joni" by Julian Velard

I heard this uniquely voiced jazzy crooner on Pandora and thought I'd check him out.  As it turns out, I like a few of his songs: "Love Again for the First Time", "Little Demons", and this upbeat pop-style number.

Folk Fascination
Good old fashioned music with acoustic instruments

"Writing in the Margins" by John Gorka

Sometimes I forget about John Gorka because he is rarely played on the radio, but then a song of his comes up on a mix and I wonder why I don't listen to him more often.  His lyrics are clever and thoughtful, his voice is relaxing, and his arrangements are sparse and pure.  This track is his most popular on iTunes.

A Cappella
Unaccompanied Treasures

"African Noel" by The St. Olaf Choir

As an Ole myself I have always appreciated the brilliance of the St. Olaf choir but often got bored with their repertoire.  Along with "Freedom Is Coming", this up tempo percussive carol is an exception and one of my favorites.

Grab Bag
Something Unique to Send You on Your Way

"Sleigh Ride" by The Boston Pops Orchestra

The best instrumental Christmas song hands down.