March Music Madness

As Spring quickly approaches, Scotty B has new new music that will warm you up.  Enjoy!

Ben Kweller is relatively young but is quite experienced nonetheless.  He seems to grow up a bit with the release of every album.  He knows how to write catchy lyrics but maintain his indie image.  Check out some of the new songs off of his latest album, coincidentally named for a fun Spring activity, Go Fly A Kite.

Chiddy Bang's, "Mind Your Manners", is my favorite hip/hop song right now.  It is alternative hip/hop.  Think MGMT featuring Mac Miller.  It is pretty tough not to enjoy this tune.

I am excited for the debut album by Electric Guest.  If their first single is any indication, I think Electric Guest will be on heavy rotation on my playlists.

I always enjoy the innovative tunes of Santigold.  Check out the "Disparate Youth" from her yet to be released new album.

Who doesn't enjoy a good John Mayer song?  Well, he has a new album coming out and "Shadow Days" is the debut single.  It has a bit of a country sound which I really like.

I am loving Green River Ordinance's latest effort.  The single, "Dancing Shoes" is a simple and syrupy country crossover hit.  It has been out for a while, but I expect it to make a run up the charts.

Here is another singer/songwriter that I am listening to, Tyrone Wells.  He has a nice tone and energy.  Check him out.

Fun.  What a great name for a band.  They are an indie pop band from NY, but since Glee used their song, you can take the "indie" part off.  The album is pretty solid and the second single is very good.  Check out their first two singles below.

Dr. Dog is a Philly band that is not new but is new to me.  Be The Void is their latest release and I find the rough and raw qualities to be refreshing in our over-polished culture.  Let me know how you feel about it.

I hope that you have enjoyed this month's tunes.  "Go listen to something great!"- Scotty B

New Songs for February

I am really digging a U.K. artist right now named Ed Sheeran.  He is quite talented.  He has the ability to "build" songs in a live format using a loop pedal.  He also has some pretty good beat box skills.  He is soulful and has solid lyrics and I really think he could be a breakout artist.  Unfortunately, Ed does not have the "look" that America usually needs to have a pop star, so we'll see if his talent is enough to get him noticed on the airwaves.  In fact, you may notice that in the first video, you never even see Ed.  That may not be by accident.

Unfortunately, the White Stripes are no more, however, Jack White recently went into the studio and a solo album should be out in April.  The first track off of the album is called "Love Interruption".  The lyrics have amazingly vivid imagery.  The overall sound is vintage Jack White.

I had never heard of Imperial Teen, but I recently heard them on Spotify.  I assumed they were new, but after doing some research, they have actually been around for 16 years.  I really liked what I heard.  Cool riffs, original choruses and an overall fun and energetic sound.  They kind of have  Beach Boys sound.  The whole album is very solid and should warm you up during a chilly February.

Of Monsters and Men is a new band out of Iceland.  They are a 6 member band consisting of 5 men and one female vocalist.  They remind me of Matt and Kim combined with Mumford and Sons.  They have a great sound.  Their first single, "Little Talks", has a nice blend of accordion and a great beat.  It sounds like a song that everyone would sing at the top of their lungs while in an Irish pub.  Enjoy!

Mona has a new single that should be released on their next album.  The song is entitled "Lean Into The Fall" and it should make it's way up the charts.

The Shins have a new album (their fourth) due in March.  Their first single is quite good, "Simple Song".  I hope that the rest of the album does not disappoint.  With James Mercer at the helm, I doubt that it will.

Hope you enjoyed this month's blog.  Talk to you again in March.

Scotty B

New Tunes for the New Year

I hope everyone had a happy, healthy and safe new year.  You are going to need some new tunes to get 2012 started right.  Check out some things that I have been listening to.  Let me know what you think.


Black Keys El Camino came out towards the end of 2011 and only received an honorable mention in my top 11 albums of 2011.  It is my biggest regret.  The entire album is good and is certainly worthy of cracking last year's list.  It will certainly make my 2012 list.  After "Lonely Boy", "Gold On The Ceiling" is likely the second song to be released as a single.  It too will find its way moving up the charts.  I would not be surprised if half of the tracks end up in a commercials.  Here are a few of my favorite songs.

I am a big fan of Common and his release The Dreamer The Believer.  My favorite songs are "Ghetto Dreams" with Nas, "Blue Sky" and "Celebrate".  Common shows that hip hop can be intelligent and inspirational.  "Celebrate" may become one of my anthems of 2012.  MAKE SURE YOU GIVE IT A LISTEN!

Speaking of anthems, Big Sean, has a song that I can't stop singing, Dance (A$$).  The lyrics are filthy but funny.  Nicki Minaj is on her game as usual.  This song is a staple at H3Brews Ravens tailgate.  Sometimes I even put it on twice.

Nelly has a new song "Champ".  It is vintage Nelly and worth a listen.  I hope it becomes synonymous with the 2012 Ravens!

Steve Aoki just released Wonderland.  It reminds me a lot of David Guetta.  Not as good, but it has several songs that should become hits.  The second song has LMFAO and is a guaranteed hit.

I continue to be impressed with Florence + The Machine.  Florence Welch is just so talented. Her voice is powerful but not overwhelming.  I am a very big fan of their work.  They did a nice job opening for U2.  Ceremonials is their latest release and has several good songs on it.  Here are a few of them:

Wait till you hear Gotye (pronounced Goh-tee-yay).  They are originally from Belgium, but have spent a lot of time in Australia.  Their lead single is "Somebody that I Used To Know".  It is fantastic and has a very cool vibe.  Walk Off The Earth did a very cool cover of this song already and the video is amazing. Another fun song is "In Your Light".  I would not be surprised if Gotye makes some serious noise in 2012.

I hope you enjoyed this month's blog.  If YOU have anything for me to check out, please leave me a message.  I am always searching for great new tunes.

Top 11 Albums of 2011 Continued

5.  Lil' Wayne Tha Carter IV
One of the most highly anticipated rap albums of the year met it's expectations.  With at least 6 hits, Lil Wayne brought the flow and the head banging beats.  Collaborations with Bruno Mars, T-Pain and Drake highlight this stellar effort.  The world of rap in 2011 belonged to Weezy.

4.  Young The Giant Young The Giant

Young The Giant came out of nowhere to be one of the best new bands of 2011.  YTG knows how to do indie rock.  With big sounds and fun hooks galore, it is a good, easy listen.  Hopefully you read my blog in March and knew that these guys would be big.  If not, check it out for now.

 

3.  Adele 21

Adele had this year's biggest album.  Packed with power ballads, 2011 was the year of Adele.  It is not often that a second album blows away a debut album, but there would be no sophomore slump for this female crooner.  Good job Adele, keep bringing it!

2.  Foster The People Torches

FTP almost made my album of the year.  #2 is not a bad showing for these fast rising stars from California. Their debut album has a cool sound, upbeat tempo and big hooks.  Part Euro, part 70's, part electronic, part indie, there is something for everyone here.  Although I like the whole disc from top to bottom, "Pumped Up Kicks" may be my favorite song of 2011.  I was thoroughly impressed by their performance at Coachella.  If you read my March blog about these guys, you were way ahead of the curve.  I hope their follow-up effort comes close to the debut.  By the way, they are playing at Merriweather Post Pavilion on June 10 2012 (my anniversary).  See you there!

1.  Foo Fighters Wasting Light

David Grohl is "The Man".  Musically gifted with a comedic sense and amazing stage presence, he has taken Foo Fighters where few bands even dream of going.  How many people can play drums, truly amazing drums, for one of the best rock bands of all time, Nirvana, and then play lead guitar for one of the best bands playing today?  He has a gift and he's not afraid to show it.  I was fortunate enough to see FF play at the Verizon Center this year, but if you were not there, you owe it to yourself to watch their concert at Wembley Stadium on Paladium.  You will not be disappointed.  Recorded in David Grohl's garage, Wasting Light is another great album from Foo Fighters and I am honored to have them atop my list for Albums of the Year 2011.

I hope that you have enjoyed my list.  If you have any additions or omissions, please feel free to comment below.  Happy New Year.  Rock On in 2012!

Top 11 Albums of 2011

While nothing "floored" me musically this year, there is a plethora of solid albums to choose from in 2011. It was very difficult to omit some really good music including releases by Airborne Toxic Event, Beastie Boys, Bon Iver, Coldplay, Danger Mouse and Daniele, The Decemberists, Manchester Orchestra, Mat Kearney, Pitbull, Radiohead, Sleeper Agent, The Strokes, Black Keys, Cage The Elephant, Grouplove, Cults, Theophilus London and Rihanna.  I fully encourage you to check out these other albums if you have never heard of them.  Without further ado, I present to you my favorite albums of the year.
11.  David Guetta Nothing But The Beat
Guetta in his typical fashion put together a truly solid collaboration effort.  He is paired with superstars Akon, Usher, Snoop Dog, Nicki Minaj and others.  The biggest song, "Without You" anchors the album, but if you have not listened to the entire disc, you are missing out.  If you have a dance party coming up, you could put Nothing But The Beat on and play it straight through.

10. My Morning Jacket Circuital

One of my biggest musical disappointments of 2011 is that I was unable to see My Morning Jacket when they came to Merriweather Post Pavilion.  I have heard that they put on a great show.  Jim Jones is the mastermind here and he puts out another great album.

9.  Tune-Yards WHOKILL

This is my off the wall pick of the year.  You have probably never heard of them but they have a really cool sound.  Kind of a combination of Sleigh Bells and Vampire Weekend.  Lots of African beats and funky vocals.  Seems like it would be a fun group to see live.

8.  Wye Oak Civilian

Catonsville, Baltimore, and Maryland should be proud of Wye Oak's latest effort.  A wonderful piece of art that is simple, yet refined.  Andy Stack is very talented and Jen Wasner's soulful, complex voice are paired together nicely.  The whole album just "works".

7.  Gary Clark Jr. Bright Lights Big City

Although short in length, this album is tall on talent.  Gary Clark Jr. is one the best blues guitarists alive according to many music aficionados including Eric Clapton.  Just try not to tap your toes to this album, it is impossible.  Gary recently came to Baltimore and his show was sold out.  He loves playing small venues, it is where he honed his craft.  Check him out for yourself.

6.  Kanye West and Jay-Z Watch The Throne

This album started a little slowly for me, but eventually grew on me.  Not the best effort from Kanye or Jay-Z but a decent showing nonetheless.  After seeing their performance live in Baltimore I liked the album even more.  In addition, Niggas in Paris has become an anthem for the Dean of Ball So Hard University, our Raven star linebacker Terrell Suggs.  I am sure you have heard the songs, but here they are again for your enjoyment.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Thanks Hurricane Irene For Giving Me Time to Blog

Here is some cool stuff that I am listening to now:
Fitz & The Tantrums may have the song of the year in "Moneygrabber".  I am also digging "Don't Gotta Work It Out".  The album will get serious consideration on my Albums of The Year list.

Mac Miller has some pretty coll stuff.  Check out these tunes.

Every once in a while, a super talented guy comes out of nowhere.  In this case, it is Gary Clarke Jr.  He is one heck of a blues guitarist.  He has been honing his skills in small clubs around the country, but has now burst onto the scene.  People like Dave Matthews and Eric Clapton have given him serious "props".  See for yourself with the song "Bright Lights".

My Los Angeles friend, Brett, told me about this next band, Sleeper Agent.  I am loving this song, "Get It Daddy".  The whole disc is very solid.  Brett tells me they are great "live".  I will surely try to catch them when they come to Baltimore.

I am also digging Theophilus London.  To borrow a line from Smucker's, "With a name like Theophilus, its gotta be good".  Check out these two songs, "Last Name London" and the very catchy "I stand Alone".

TV On The Radio has been around since 2006.  Their latest release Nine Types of Light is pretty solid.  I am a big fan of the song "Will Do".

And lastly, I like this catchy indie rock tune by the Givers.  It is called "Up Up Up".  You may see it going up, up, up the charts.  

I hope you enjoyed the music.  Until my next music diary posting...

Scotty B

You 2 thought U2 was just ok? Me2.

I am sorry to say but I was underwhelmed with U2's performance at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.  Maybe it was because I had such high expectations, but I have a laundry list of complaints about the June 22nd performance.
1.  The audio was average at best.  There were many times that Bono's voice was distorted or muffled.
2.  My seats were actually obstructed my the monstrous stage.  Ironically, the spaceship stage was specifically designed to elevate more speakers and the video screens to allow better visibility.  However, the spacecraft's "legs" blocked the direct view of Bono's primary spot from my seat (My seat was on the 50 yard line on the club level.  I paid $280.)
3. Although the video and light accompaniments were excellent, they require precise timing which severely limits any spontaneity or creativity.  Everything was very rehearsed, predictable and overproduced.
4.  Bono's preaching is really a bit much.  I know he is a charitable man and stands for many great causes, but his commentary on Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese political dissident, for instance was unnecessary.  If he wanted to make a comment about violence, he should have brought up the 275 murders every year within a 20 mile radius of the spot he was standing due to our wonderful "War on Drugs" policy.  

Here were the positives:
1.  I helped show the world that Baltimore can sell-out an 80,000 seat stadium.  Maybe other bands will take notice and schedule a stop in B-More instead of bypassing us for the "sexier" Washington DC.
2.  The aforementioned light and video shows were pretty darn impressive.  Thank goodness, because I spent much more time watching the video screens than I did watching the band members.
3.  The Edge is really good.  There is a reason that Rolling Stone put him #24 on their list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time".
4.  The whole "space" concept was pretty cool.  The stage looked like a spaceship.  They walked onto the stage to David Bowie's "Space Odyssey".  Gabrielle Gifford's astronaut husband, Mark E. Kelly, introduced "Beautiful Day" from the Space Shuttle.  There were a few other space related cartoon videos.  And lastly, they exited the stage to Elton John's "Rocketman".
5.  The set list was very solid.  It is pretty hard to complain about a set list that included 6 of my 8 highest ranked U2 songs:
I Will Follow

I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For

Beautiful Day

Sunday Bloody Sunday

Where The Streets Have No Name (especially exciting for us Ravens fans because that is the song they play at M&T Stadium when the Ravens' starting line-up is announced.)

With or Without You

Overall, the show was fun but I am sorry to say, a bit disappointing.  Maybe if I had sat closer, I would have felt the energy of the crowd more.  Also, I have heard that the audio quality is better in an arena.  Unfortunately, U2 may not get another chance to impress me.

Here are a few pictures from the show:

BJ and Me

Gotti