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

"Stars Align" by Virginia Coalition.

As I was wandering around iTunes (as I am wont to do), I discovered this song from a group that I hadn't heard of before.  Reminiscent of Sister Hazel, V.C. has several other nice songs in its repertoire, including "Santa Fe" and "Green and Grey."  This upbeat pop track is available in the original version or as an acoustic performance on the Almost Home EP. 

Featured Artist: John Mayer
A few tracks from one of my all-time faves

I was first introduced to John Mayer when I listened to "Your Body Is a Wonderland" on Cities' 97 back in 2001.  In 2007, an acoustic version of that song was on the Cities' 97 sampler.  Both versions are terrific, of course, as are many of his songs.  I tend to gravitate toward the acoustic guitar-based songs ("Daughters", "No Such Thing", "83", and "Why Georgia"), but I also appreciate the soulful groove ("Waiting on the World to Change" and "Stitched Up").  With his diverse catalog, guitar virtuosity, and smooth voice, John Mayer is truly one of the great singer-songwriters of our time.  Check out my top ten list of his songs here!

The Gem
A lesser-known song that deserves more attention

"Weather With You" by Crowded House.

Several years ago I bought Recurring Dream: The Best of Crowded House because I liked "Something So Strong", "Don't Dream It's Over," and "Locked Out" (which I heard on the excellent Reality Bites soundtrack).  I was surprised to find out that there were several other great songs on the terrifically-produced album, including this groovin' acoustic track.  Give it a listen!

Chill Out
A nice, relaxing song to check out

"Heal Over" by KT Tunstall.

Eye to the Telescope was a huge hit in 2006 and 2007 for this up-and-coming singer-songwriter, thanks mostly to "Suddenly I See" and "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree."  However, I'm more partial to a couple of lesser-known tracks from the album, including "Under the Weather" and this stripped-down mellow track.

Private Picks
Classic rock and 80's pop from T-Sodes, an active duty U.S. Army soldier

"Baba O'Riley" by The Who.

I get a chill down my spine every time I hear the guitar come in at the 41 second mark.  This is one of the best rock songs of all time and even though my stereo is usually already loud, I can't resist cranking it up a little more for this one.  Man, if you don't have this one in your music library, you need to get it there.

Kiddie Corner
Quality music for kids and adults alike

"Give a Little Whistle" by Michelle Shocked.

Some of you may know this artist from her days as a folk/pop singer from the 80's ("Anchorage" is a great song - one of David Letterman's favorites). Check out this song and the title track from her 2006 bluegrass children's album.