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

"First Train Home" by Imogen Heap

You may know the multitalented Miss Heap from "Hide and Seek," the brilliant a cappella piece from her 2005 release Speak for Yourself (and a May 2009 JayTunes selection).  This well-produced track and "Wait It Out" are two of the highlights from her August 2009 release Ellipse.

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Featured Artist: Ben Folds
A few tracks from one of my all-time faves

Many of us met first heard Ben Folds singing the depressing "Brick" as a front man for the Ben Folds Five.  Since then he's put out a great catalog of music ranging from sad to funny to rocking. Check out my list of the Top 10 Ben Folds Songs and let me know what you think.

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The Gem
A lesser-known song that deserves more attention

"I'll Be There" by Mariah Carey and Trey Lorenz

While watching my hundredth hour of tributes I remembered that this is probably my favorite cover of a Michael Jackson song.  Simple and acoustic with Mariah's pure voice... I miss MTV Unplugged!

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Folk Fascination
Good old fashioned music with acoustic instruments

"Paradise Lost" by Storyhill

Back in the early 90's these guys were Chris & Johnny, two fellow students at St. Olaf College who reminded me of Simon & Garfunkel.  I watched several of their shows (including one opened by The Limestones) and knew they were destined to make it big.  This poignant song shows why as it beautifully laments urban sprawl.

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Aaah Cappella
Unaccompanied Treasures

"Naturally" by Huey Lewis and the News

One of my favorite albums of high school was Fore! and this throwback doo-wop style track was a major reason.  Along with Bobby McFerrin and The Nylons (whose music doesn't stand up nearly as well), this song first spurred my interest in a cappella music.

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Kiddie Corner
Quality music for kids and adults alike

"Puff, the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul & Mary

Whether or not it has other connotations, this folksy gem is one of the best kids songs of all time.  Don't you sometimes wish you could frolic in the autumn mist with a rascal named Puff?

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