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

"Lady of the Sea" by Seth Lakeman

Seth Lakeman is recent iTunes discovery who consistently delivers well-produced, dramatic songs with lyrics that are often deeper than I can understand.  This song fits that description with its driving violins, deep bass, and creative percussion.  While you're checking it out, give a listen to Lakeman's "The White Hare", "Kitty Jay", and "King and Country" and let me know what you think!

Featured Artist: Billy Joel
A few tracks from one of my all-time faves

Glass Houses was the first recording I ever bought in a store and the LP is still proudly displayed on the wall of my office.  I have played through my Greatest Hits: Volumes I and II piano music hundreds of times.  I've even seen a couple of his concerts (a rarity for me).  When all is said and done, the Piano Man is probably the pop/rock artist that has had the greatest impact on me musically, so it definitely feels right to feature him this month.  Check out my Billy Joel Songs list to hear my favorite songs.

The Gem
A lesser-known song that deserves more attention

"If You're Gonna Leave" by Raul Midon

Another iTunes clickaround discovery, this time featuring a well-produced acoustic jazz track.  Midon's 2005 album also featured "Everybody," an occasionally brilliant, occasionally annoying (yelling falsetto) track that I can never decide if I like.  This one, on the other hand, always gets played in its entirety.

Chill Out
A nice, relaxing song to check out

"All at Sea " by Jamie Cullum

For a while it looked like this Brit might be the next Harry Connick Jr. or Michael Buble, but it never really panned out.  He does have a couple of cool tracks, though, including "Photograph", "High and Dry", "These Are the Days", and this enjoyable pop/jazz crossover.

Folk Fascination
Good old fashioned music with acoustic instruments

"Even If" by Girlyman

This lesser-known folk/pop group put their best guitars, mandolins, and harmonies on display for this 2004 recording (whose album also includes a great cover of George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord").  Since then, they've become a bit more refined and commercial, but I still love the feel of this song.

Kiddie Corner
Quality music for kids and adults alike

"Baby Beluga" by Billy Gilman

I'm really not a big fan of country music or children's artist Raffi, but Country Goes Raffi features several tracks that have made it on to our favorite family-friendly playlists. This one by child prodigy Billy Gilman happens to be my son's favorite, so go ahead... "sing for all your friends - we like to hear you!"