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

"Come Back Song" by Darius Rucker

The artist formerly (and incorrectly) known as Hootie, leader of the Blowfish, was one of my favorites in the mid-90s and then the band faded away. Years later Rucker emerged as a country star and I avoided him like the plague. Now he's more of a country crossover and (like Lady Antebellum and Nickel Creek) I actually kind of like his music. This song, along with "This" are my favorites from his 2010 release.

Featured Artist: Herbie Hancock
A few tracks from one of my all-time faves

  Okay, check this out: Herbie Hancock release his 48th album in June. 48th! The accomplished jazz pianist and producer started out composing some of my favorite jazz classics in the late 60s and early 70s. Then he spent some time with a guy names Miles Davis. In the 80s he experimented with technology and gave us "Rockit". Now he's moved into collaborating with some of the world's greatest musicians to make Grammy-winning covers. Not a bad career, Mr. Hancock... not bad at all. Check out my list of the Top 10 Herbie Hancock Songs and let me know what you think of my selections of his best.

The Gem
A lesser-known song that deserves more attention

"Sorry Doesn't Cut It" by Monte Montgomery

I first saw Monte on Austin City Limits supporting his album First and Repair in the late 90s and was totally impressed with his blues stylings and virtuosity on the acoustic guitar. Nearly 15 years and seven albums later, his first album is still his best with this catchy tune and "Movin' On" as the standouts.

Folk Fascination
Good old fashioned music with acoustic instruments

"January Hymn" by The Decembrists

I feel like The Decembrists is a group that I should like, but most of their songs just aren't that catchy or pleasant. "January Hymn" is the exception with its cleanly picked acoustic guitar, simple melody, and remembrances of deep snow.

A Cappella
Unaccompanied Treasures

"First Train Home" by The Bostonians

Once again, a collegiate a cappella group doing an incredibly accurate rendition of a great song. This time it's Imogen Heap's lush hit, one of my favorites of 2009.

Grab Bag
Something Unique to Send You on Your Way

"Living in the Country" by Martin Simpson

Penned by Pete Seeger and appearing on the 1998 tribute album Where Have All The Flowers Gone, this happy-go-lucky banjo tune is one of my favorite instrumentals of all time. I dare you to be crabby after listening to this song.