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

"Hit the Ground Running" by George Goodwin's Big Phat Band

If you have ever played in a band or jazz band, you should appreciate this funky new instrumental from GGBPB, which is kind of cross between Count Basie and Tower of Power   This number features a creative arrangement, cool solos, and an upbeat tempo.  Check it out!

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Featured Artist: Michael Jackson
A few tracks from one of my all-time faves

Yes, he's an incredibly bizarre person, but that doesn't change that fact that Michael Jackson is an incredibly gifted singer, songwriter, and performer.  Every once in a while I hear some of his old songs and think that (unlike many 80's songs) they still hold up as being great today.  Check out my Top 10 Michael Jackson Songs list and see if you agree with my selections.  By the way, I actually favor Bad over Thriller.  How about you?

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The Gem
A lesser-known song that deserves more attention

"Am I the Same Girl" by Swing Out Sister

Their biggest hit was "Breakout," but I prefer this horn-fueled pop gem from 1992.  You may not know that it's actually a remake of a 1969 song by American soul singer Barbara Acklin.  Give it a listen and just try to sit still.

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Folk Fascination
Good old fashioned music with acoustic instruments

"Love of Our Lives" by Indigo Girls

Featuring the Girls' trademark poetic lyrics and harmonious vocals, this acoustic folk/pop number reminds me of their heyday in the late 80s/early 90s.  I would say that it's not quite good enough to crack their terrific Top 10, but this new track is among their best of recent years.

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Aaah Cappella
Unaccompanied Treasures

"Hide & Seek" by Imogen Heap

One of my favorite songs of 2007, this multitracked gem shows off the creativity and range of its eclectic singer-songwriter. Check it out along with "Goodnight and Go" from Speak for Yourself.

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Kiddie Corner
Quality music for kids and adults alike

"Fuzzy Wuzzy (Wuz a Bear)" by Rosemary Clooney

I can't believe I finally found my favorite song from when I was in preschool and early elementary.  It was on an LP record that was damaged and eventually rendered useless due to hundreds of careless plays. Why did I think it was so great?  Probably just the clever and silly lyrics, upbeat instrumentation, and Clooney's soothing, grandmotherly voice.

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