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

"American Honey" by Lady Antebellum

I first heard Lady Antebellum a few months ago on their Grammy nominated "I Run to You," which soon became one of my favorite songs of 2009.  This single is from their January 26, 2010 release "Need You Now" and features their trademark harmonies longing for the sweet days gone by. 

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Featured Artist: Mark Knopfler
A few tracks from one of my all-time faves

Most people know Dire Straits from “Money for Nothing” (an MTV staple for many years) or “Walk of Life”.  While those are great songs, I prefer the more subtle tunes of On Every Street.  Check out my list of the Top 10 Mark Knopfler/Dire Straits Songs and let me know what you think.  Fun fact: Neck and Neck, Knopfler's collaboration with Chet Atkins, was one of two albums I owned in the short-lived Minidisc format (the other was Simon and Garfunkel's Greatest Hits).

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The Gem
A lesser-known song that deserves more attention

"Crazy (Acoustic Version)" by Seal

I can’t quite come up with a full top 10 list for Seal yet, but his breakout song “Crazy” would definitely be on it.  This version (Seal is one of the best at acoustic remakes) is even better than the original.

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Folk Fascination
Good old fashioned music with acoustic instruments

"Turpentine" by Brandi Carlile

While most people know Brandi Carlile for “The Story”, it is this ballad that was among my favorite songs of the last decade.  A somewhat traditional folk song, its emotional message is perfectly interpreted by Carlisle’s raspy crooning.

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Aaah Cappella
Unaccompanied Treasures

"Boondocks" by Face

They got robbed on The Sing-Off, but this Colorado vocal rock band puts out some terrific music.  Their new CD Momentum features an award-winning arrangement of "O Fortuna" (arranged by my friend Ben) and this terrific rendition of Little Big Town's biggest hit.

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facevocalband.com

Kiddie Corner
Quality music for kids and adults alike

"This Land Is Your Land " by Peter, Paul & Mary

My two favorite songs in elementary school music class were “Erie Canal” and this Woody Guthrie classic.  Later, it was one of the first songs I learned to play on guitar.  Now I’m ready to pass it on to my children.  This song was made for you and me!

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