Deflagration “A Call To Arms” (Metal)

This stuff is damn heavy and breaks some new ground ta boot (I can’t quite pinpoint it but you’ll see what I mean). I’ve been listening before and during my workouts for over a month now and this stuff gets me really - and I mean REALLY - jacked up (which reminds me, try not to listen around your buddies that drink whiskey, unless you are looking to break up a fight).

Anyway, they kind of remind me of the band Pro-Pain (I think its the singing). Oh and don’t just take my word for it. I’ve shared their stuff with some of my live and bleed metal buddies and here are their comments;

Mark on Facebook - “Dude! I checked out Deflagration and it was awesome! Thanks!”

Bob on Facebook - “I like them. They sound different. I like the sound though. I might have to get the CD.”

My favorite tunes are “Split Wide” and “Color and Ash”. Bottom line, if you are a metal fan, you are gonna like these guys. These tunes will fit nicely in a playlist along side Slayer, Testament, Exodus, Metallica, Slipknot and many of the newer bands of that ilk. Check them out on MySpace or CDBaby.

Rob Anthony - “While the World Sleeps” (Acoustic Rock/Americana)

Speaking of metal, Rob Anthony is an ex-thrasher who has learned how to turn it up by turning it down. He has crafted a great acoustic album.

Even though I know it’s borderline heresy in the indie world, I’ve been listening a decent amount of top 40 rock, country and adult contemporary lately as part of my songwriting self-education. The stuff on this release could EASILY go toe to toe with almost anything on the pop charts. The top-notch songwriting is both timely and timeless.

His performance is very personal and very intimate. He will tap your psychy and bleed the emotion out of you on nearly every tune.  There is really no way to pick a few favorites because I love pretty much every tune on the disc. And for all of you cover tune nuts, you will want to check out his take on the DePeche Mode tune “Personal Jesus”.

Bottom line, if you haven’t heard him, you are missing out. Check him out on the official Rob Anthony Site or on CDBaby. Then tell everyone you know because he deserve to be heard. Oh and be on the lookout for an interview with Rob in the near future. We’ve been in contact and are trying to find some time in our schedules.

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One of the great things about summer in the good ole’ US of A is the fact that there is never a shortage of the three ingredients that - when combined - can melt tension away faster than soft-serve ice cream on a 90 plus degree day. Those three ingredients - in case you missed the title - are the blues, tasty BBQ and some good beer.

That is why I have decided to make this theme an annual occurrence here on the goat. This year, not only do I load your player with ten KILLER blues tunes but I offer up an observation that might even keep you flatulence free the next morning.

Ideally you will want to play this podcast while BBQing outdoors with beer in hand - and people you want to impress within earshot - BUT if that ain’t in the cards, then grab a beer, press play and close your eyes, I will take you there.

Press play now!

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Songs heard on this podcast:

Jimmy Bratcher - “The River”
Joe Bonamassa - “Blues Deluxe” (download this tune free on eMusic)
Jimmy Thackery - “That Dog Won’t Hunt” (download this tune free on eMusic)
Eric Lindell - ” Josephine”

Last Years Show:

Check out last years show - Listen to Blues, BBQ and Beer I

Say something…

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I call the song “How to Change the World” and you can check it out now by visiting my personal site PlanetCorey.com.

It is just me, my acoustic guitar and my message.

This is something I’ve been meaning to do for quite awhile now and I have to tell you, I’ve been missing out. It is extremely fun to record music and it is hard to describe the feeling of hearing something I started from scratch playing back at you.

I’m addicted and I am a songwriting junky right now. I can’t wait to get back in the studio to record the next one.

Anyway, remember that you can share your review in the comments below, via the contact form, on your own site OR any social networking profile blog you might have (Facebook, MySpace, iMeem, etc). I don’t care what you say - since I am a big boy and can take it - all I ask is that you are honest and constructive.

Hope you like it and I can’t wait to hear what you guys think.

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Guest post: Treadmarkz is my brother-in-law, a Human Beatles Encyclopedia and the author of the weblog Treadmarkz.wordpress.com.

Some Country music purists would probably say that anything that warrants the name “Alternative Country” is not really Country. But ultimately it is the domain of the fan to judge what an artist is or is not, to them.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Jennifer Dixon.

A little country sensibility with a style that hovers along the cusp of blues, pop, jazz owing to a stint on Memphis’ legendary Beale Street, and nearly a decade in Nashville, her new CD, “2 Years” is the fruit of experience. She did not come out of nowhere.

Which makes it all the more uncanny that she has been labeled “un-Nashville.”

The intro to “A Little You For Me” sounds like a nod to “I Lie Around” by Paul McCartney and Wings. But this Norah Jones-like tune comes from the heart of a woman who has given all she can give to the world, yet she finds she’s got a little more left for her man if he’ll meet her halfway. Like “I Lie Around” it never really takes off. It threatens to, repeatedly. But when it comes down to it, it’s just right.

“Too Tired To Care” is Dixon, having been there, done that and not doing it again regarding love. When she starts to hear the same old lines, she is just that, too tired to care. It is a mellow funk romp with a lyric delivered in focused rapid fire, highlighted with some sultry vocal inflections.

“Easy Goodbye” seems to be a follow up on the same theme in that, having heard it all before, its easy to let go and move on. These two tracks are the most un-Nashville of the bunch. One can picture many of today’s top female vocalists flagrantly over-doing “Easy Goodbye”, robbing it of its symbolic ease. One of its greatest features is that the musicians, while doing some top-notch work, back off and let the vocals shine.

With these tracks what you get is a many-tiered cynical view of love. In that respect, “If You’re Looking For An Angel” is refreshing. Just when you are expecting something like “Strong Enough” by Cheryl Crow, it turns into something closer to “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt in its vulnerability. For instance, in the chorus, Dixon sings “If you’re looking for an angel…” Having heard a couple of these songs, one may be surprised to hear her continue with “here I am.” It’s sweet, its comforting, and it demonstrates that with a few gentle, sincere words, yes, women can make men, dare I say it, swoon.

Love Me Back” delivers the very subtlest hints of the smoky vocals of Natalie Merchant or Melissa Etheridge, yet tips the scales with those well-executed vocal inflections again.

Dixon finally brings the thunder with “I Need a Man.” It’s gritty, harkening back to Tanya Tucker, matching the vocal strength of Carrie Underwood. Here Dixon is laying it all out on the line as if to say “This is what I need, damn you!”

Four of these tracks can be heard on her homepage www.jenniferdixon.net, and one is featured in the indie film “Shattered”.

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Editors note: This post is pretty inspiring and very timely for me personally. I am starting to wake up to my true calling - writing, recording and performing - and this is the kind of stuff - from someone who is making it happen - that has me believing. I hope that it inspires you the way it inspired me. Enjoy!

In a book I read not long ago titled “Do You” by Russell Simmons, he shared the discovery he made regarding success and the pursuit of “things” as a benchmark of success. He noted an unnamed MC who spent lots of money on a nice car and rims. Inevitably, sometime after the purchase the question shows up; “Is this it?“

Russell noted what many of us have felt after the euphoria of the moment is over: a feeling of emptiness. Further back in history a King named Solomon, presumed to be the richest man of his time said he indulged in every pleasure and bought every nice thing, yet in the end it was like chasing the wind.

Now, I’m not knocking nice things (considering that everybody that knows me would say I was fronting if I did - I LOVE NICE THINGS!!) I’m merely attempting to shed some light on what we’ve been taught or has been suggested to accept as success and what really is success. I’m going to leave the defining of success up to you; however I offer these thoughts for your consideration.

One of the most important questions to ask is; why am I doing what I’m doing? Whatever you’re reasoning is fine if it works for you, however, if in the end your sense of satisfaction doesn’t match up to what you thought it would, you have not really achieved what you set out for.

The shame isn’t in discovering that your judgment was wrong, we all go through that; the shame is in going hard for things that if we had deeply considered the cost would never have been pursued. I produce music because I can’t “not” do it! Music lives in me. I compose melodies because I hear their beauty in every hour of my day.

As a grown man I occasionally receive odd looks because I walk around ‘beat boxing’ when no one else hears any music. The drums are in my soul. I have been blessed with a gift that is so evident that even when I have performed well in other occupations the screaming question in my mind was: “What the hell are you doing, doing anything other than music?”

The world has over seven billion people. It is scientifically and mathematically impossible for you to walk in your gift and not have the life you desire. However, if you don’t know why you are pursuing a thing; “You may just be chasing the wind!”

My passion is creativity itself. My desire is to release excellence from my mind, my heart and my hands and to help all those that I can to do the same. These things I have discovered through shame, experience, deep thought and a little wind chasing of my own. I thank God for my current understanding.

One of my all time favorite rappers said this: “I’m focused man!” -Jay Z Ask yourself; are you focused on real success? True success will never leave you with an empty feeling.

About the Author:

Roger E Lear, also known as REL, has been creating and producing music for over 22 years. He has helped many new as well as established artists create money making music. He has built his career as a full time music producer by providing excellent quality music production and song writing services.

REL publishes a free weekly newsletter with helpful tips for aspiring artists at http://www.BanginBeatsByREL.com. Included with all subscriptions are free sample beats. You can learn more about REL at http://www.BanginBeatsByREL.com/About-REL.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Focused on Real Success

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The Summer will be brimming with competitions, festivals, tours and holiday bashes;  many opportunities for getting your Band a gig or a little name recognition.   Talent Searches, Tours and Battle of the Bands  pay out prize money or comps equal to what you would earn at a gig, ALL for just a one hour performance.   Networking with the Bands and Industry people at these Events can offer tremendous earning potential by breaking you into new Venues. 

Here are some simple tips to get an edge over your competitors:

1. Play original songs.  You’re allowed only one cover song and it’s got to be perfect.
2. Your song should have basic structure.  Like in writing; intro, body and conclusion.
3. Songs shouldn’t be longer than 5 minutes.
4. Play for your allotted time or less, but never more.
5. Move. Everyone in the Band needs to be active at the same time.
6. Your timing needs to be impeccable. It proves a Band is well rehearsed.
7. Spend very little time with sound checks; one song only with minor quick adjustments if absolutely  required.
8. Get the audience moving.  Play your hottest beats and most gut punching riffs from song one and don’t stop.
9. Demonstrate your instrument or vocal talent with a solo.  Have a focus song.  45 seconds of fame.
10. Try to go last in the line-up, leaving a lasting impression.

These competitions not only put cash in your hand but promote your Band.  You will need to register early or go through an acceptance process with small fees to be a performer.  They’re usually sponsored by radio stations, sound companies or huge corporations.  Seek out Talent Searchs, Tours and Battle of the Bands to compete and “be seen” in your area.  No matter how small the Venue;  if you come out as the winner, it’s a feather in your cap so toot your own horn and post that big win on your message boards.

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Grab a beer, glass of wine or mixer and press play now!

Click Button To Play | Right-Click To Download

Songs heard on this podcast:

Say something…

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If you want to learn how to write a song, do what all successful songwriters should do: Study songwriting. If you want to learn how to write great songs, study great songs!

If you want to be a master songwriter, learn from the masters.

If you’ve been writing songs for a while, you most likely are doing something right. When you write regularly you get a feel for it. You develop an instinct for what is catchy, memorable and engaging.

But you can take it further than that.

Think of a craftsman, say, someone who is good with wood. He may have a natural ability to carve or construct things from wood. If he does it all the time he’s going to get really good at it.

Now, if that same person studied woodworking as an apprentice, imagine how much faster he will learn his craft. By studying with the masters, he will learn shortcuts and techniques that might take him years longer on his own.

Same with songwriting.

By studying the techniques of hit songwriters, you learn what works and what doesn’t. You learn how to write songs. That doesn’t mean you have to give up your natural style, or change who you are.

It simply means you learn better ways to present your unique ideas.

By studying song form you can learn to better express those ideas which are unique to you. You learn to build a better vehicle to take your song ideas where you want them to go.

So how do we study hit songs?

Listen to the radio! Listen to the radio with a critical ear. Listen closely and ask yourself a series of questions:

1. Why does this song appeal to me?
2. What is it about the chorus that I find so irresistible?
3. What emotion/s does the melody evoke?
4. Why do the lyrics speak to me?

Keep on asking yourself these questions. Keep digging deeper for more answers. There can be many reasons why a song is so appealing. Find and analyse the reasons why it appeals to you.

And when writing your songs, don’t underestimate the importance of rewriting. Never settle for the first draft. You can do better.

That’s what all great songwriters have done and continue to do.

Songwriting is an ongoing process. There is always something new to learn. You never stop learning. So please don’t ever think you’re done!

About the Author:

Richie Gilbert has been passionate about writing songs for many years. He spends too much time in his home recording studio, and is active in pitching his songs to music publishers.

To learn more about the craft and business of songwriting, please visit his website at http://www.inspired-songwriting-tips.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How To Write A Song - Study The Masters

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This talented individual was able to take his beatbox skills and merge them with his flute playing skill. I love coming across stuff like this because it is a great reminder that there are endless ways to do something different.

Check it out as Nathan takes it outside of the box.

Very cool aye?

Make sure you stop by and check out some of his other videos over on YouTube. And while your there…wink, wink…befriend the Musicgoat. See you there!

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• 100% Music Songwriting contest
• USA Songwriting competition
• Nashville International Song and Lyric Contest

Last year I entered into the USA Songwriting Competition to see if I could win. Plus, I was just curious to see how these things worked and  maybe even get a little feedback.  

Well I didn’t win anything and I didn’t get any feedback BUT I feel that just going through the motions really helped me to improve my skills, to push myself to learn more about writing and also realize that  I needed to touch up my recording skills. 

So if you write, give it a shot. 

Do you know of any more? Let us know in the comments below.

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If you are a sucker for good (or at least interesting) cover songs, then check these out. Here are a few of the good - and not so good - that I’ve come across lately.

First, you’ll want to check out Prince doing “Crimson and Clover”. Even though I am a Prince fan and fellow resident of the great state of Minnesota, I still like Joan Jetts cover better.

Next, I’m not a huge Deftones guy but I thought this was pretty cool.  Here they are doing a cover of The Cars “Drive” on YouTube. 

And Finally, here’s a question for you. What do you get when you mix the Beatles and Metallica with a dash of Spinal Tap and pinch of Weird Al Yankovich? If you said Beatallica than you must have known already because there is no way in hell anyone else other than Beatallica could come up with such a wacky concept.

With song titles like “Sgt. Hetfield’s Motorbreath Pub Band”, “I Saw Her Thrashing There”, “Leper Madonna” and “A Garage Dayz Night”, Beatallica conjure up one of the most powerful marketing force known to man… curiosity. How could you possibly do anything else until you hear at least one of those tunes. I couldn’t.

After listening, the truth is, I don’t know what the hell to think. I do have to hand it to the lead singer, Jaymz Lennfield, the dude has the Hetfield “yayaaaaa” down. And I gotta give them credit for being so damn original at not being, original. Either way, I bet they are having a pretty good time. Props to my brother-in-law, Treadmarkz, for introducing me.

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Guest post:

Regarding why the Beatles broke up, for years, I was a member of the “Yoko Is Evil” sect. Then for a while I converted to Paul-is-an-Egomaniac-ism. I took it for granted that the truth lay somewhere within these two camps. Eventually I realized the many other factors: John Lennon’s addiction to heroin; the death of the Beatles manager Brian Epstein; their music and individual talents getting too big to be contained within one album; George Harrison’s waning interest in traditional western pop music.

Part of the reason for Harrison’s change of direction was his growing passion for Indian music, philosophy and eventually religion. Recently I have myself become immersed in a faith which relies heavily on the Hindu worldview regarding reincarnation, karma, “Hell” as distance from God rather than a literal lake of fire. I feel my years of Beatles fandom was just a way to get me across that spiritual bridge.

Whenever I meditate on a worldly desire and make a vow to do, or not do any given thing, if I later fall back on that vow, I find that I do face consequences of my action. It’s Karma, its Natural Law, the Law of Truth, whatever you want to call it. A dharma (religious duty) of Hinduism, Christianity and all major religions really is “Do not bear false witness” with an implied “or else…” involved. Mohandas Gandhi wrote of this concept in depth in his “Autobiography.”

In 1967, the rest of the Beatles willingly accompanied Harrison to Wales for a weekend seminar on Transcendental Meditation, and to India the following spring for an extended course. Though the course did not make religious faith a priority, there is always an aspect of spirituality with meditation, and where there is spirituality, there is a connection with God on one level or another. Whether one accepts it or not, that door is opened at that time. The importance of the Law of Truth is, hence, heightened.

Before the Wales seminar, the Beatles were on top of the world having just released Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and the single “All You Need Is Love” that summer. They were the voice of the youth movement. What happened?

Two of the Beatles’ best-known songs are “Can’t Buy Me Love” and “All You Need Is Love”. Could the Beatles have written, recorded and performed these songs for profit, all the while living the lavish and, lets face it, decadent lifestyles they did without Karma rearing its ugly head?

While they were at the Wales seminar, their manager died. But things still seemed good six months later when they left for India. While in India, John Lennon flirted with the idea that their next move as a band should be to become “spiritual leaders.” For the course, they were to give up all non-prescription drugs for mental clarity. But none of them gave up smoking pot and once they got back from India John went back to LSD and soon started using heroin. Even George never gave up his rock star lifestyle while scolding other rich people in a song called “Piggies.”

Even though they wrote about 40 songs in India the following spring and seemed to be very together, as soon as they got back from India, everything seemed to fall apart rapidly. From the beginning of the White Album sessions in May 1968 there were bitter arguments. This was followed by Yoko entering the picture, a bitter struggle for power in the band, and a very bitter court battle which eventually tore the band asunder.

Was Yoko’s presence a catalyst to bring on the negative Karma the Beatles collected through their non-adherence to the law of Truth? What about the death of Brian Epstein? Another example of Karmic retribution on the band? Surely not as their Karma should not have dragged Brian and his very life into it. It may have been Karma from past incarnations that caused them to have to go through such a tragedy together, but that is a different story. The disaster of Apple Corps., and the resulting lawsuits over money which ended the Beatles, however, seem like fitting Karmic retribution for years of singing about love being more important than money, all the while making money and lifestyle the most important thing in reality.  And Lennon must have known it, as one of his first solo singles was “Instant Karma, where he sang  “Instant Karma’s gonna get you” and “we all shine on”, meaning “we all have to live with the consequences of our actions, so be careful.” Indeed, his band had fallen mightily from grace.

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So, if you are an artist these are great reads. They will give you some perspective into how you might want to formulate your marketing strategy from this point forward.

And, if you are a fan who likes to geek out on anything and everything music, you’ll like it too. After all, you are the most important piece of this entire puzzle. Check it out and let us know what you think.

The Pundits

First, check out Bob Lefsetz over at Lefsetz.com. He feels that the Album is dead and explains why in his posts Albums and More Albums.

Meanwhile, Scott Perry of New Music Tipsheet - by way of Hypebot - thinks that Bob Lefsetz is promoting career suicide, and says so in his post In Defense of the Album. (For the record, considering the nature of his site he may be a tad biased. Just my opinion).

And finally, I saw this post this morning by Dave Allen discussing the “End of the Album as the Organizing Principle” over on the Music Think Tank.

My Two Four Cents

Other than the points made by Bob and Dave, there are a few other reasons why for me - as an aspiring indie artist - that releasing my music song by song makes sense right now.

First, I don’t want to spend the time pouring over 10-12 songs. In the time I was spending contemplating the album, I could have 2-4 songs floating around working the crowd and building a little momentum while at the same time allowing me to getting a better feel for who my audience is. This would allow me to make certain adjustments to my marketing strategy if needed.

Second, I don’t have a ton of  experience recording and I don’t want to make an entire CD of half ass recordings. Practice makes perfect right? I might have a few below average recordings out of the shoot but after 2, 3 or 4 I should be kicking out some good stuff.

Third, releasing one track at a time gives me opportunity to monetize and/or promte the song more than once. I plan to use the song as a way to get the fan interested enough to opt in to my list and then, down the line, I could release all the tunes as part of a compilation.

Fourth, I think that focusing on one song at a time will make each song better overall. How many times have you bought a cd’s where you just know 5-6 of the track were nothing more than filler. Had the artist had more time to contemplate the tunes they would have either been better or just thrown out.

Honorable Mention

There are few other reasons why a single by single would make sense for an Indie artist.

If you aren’t recording yourself you may be paying for studio time. Recording a song at a time may not be practical over the long haul but in the short run would be. Plus, if you are savvy, having a single or two could help you raise money for future recordings.

Or, maybe you aren’t sure if you have what it takes. Dipping your toe in the water with a single or two before jumping in head first ccould give you some insight as to what is to come.

Finally, maybe you need a little validation of your or your bands talent. Better to find out after a song or two than after a huge investment of time, money and emotion.

The Finish

In general, I think there is something to be said about not blowing your wad in one shot. Slowly releasing a track or two at a time may create a little anticipation for the listener while giving the artist another legitimate opporutnity to communicate with his audience.

Hell, single by single worked for many of the greats The Beatles, Elvis, Cash, etc.

Besides, you can always do an album at some point if you really want to. Afterall, it is what some of you and I were brought up on and there will always be a little bit of nostalgia for that format.

Bottom line, find what works for you and roll with it. What do you think?

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I figured I would take a few minutes to share my thoughts and get a conversation started to see what you thought.

First, it is always cool to see dudes at that age still getting the job done. Little Anthony and the Imperials were fun to watch - My 2 year daughter was even shaking her butt a little. It was one of the times were I knew that I heard the songs before but didn’t know who did them - now I know.

Being a metalhead - and other than the fact that I started feeling old - I really enjoyed the Metallica portion of the show. The big softy in me thought it was great to see Jason Newsted jamming with them. He deserves the recognition since he was part of the group during some of it most significant work.

I also think it was cool to hear Jason and Robert to give props to their old bands Flotsam and Jetsam and Suicidal Tendencies respectively.

I loved Flea’s speech. I kinda felt the same way when I heard “Fight Fire with Fire” for the first time.

During his speech, James Hetfield mentioned a ton of other bands that he thought should be in the Rock Hall. Bands like Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Judas Priest and Motorhead. Not only do I agree but I think you make a case that anyone of those bands should be in there before Metallica, Jeff Beck or Run DMC (who I think should be in there BTW). But, I’m sure like most things, its all political. Wha-da-ya-do?

I was kind of hoping that maybe Rod Stewart would surprise us and so a tune with Beck but nothing. The “Immigrant Song” was pretty cool and I really dug his band. They really get into it.  And how about the chick playing bass. She can groove.

Jimmy Page - who is starting to look a bit like George Washington - sure likes to talk about himself and seems to come off as being a dick. Don’t get me wrong, he is a legend and I am a huge Zeppelin fan but I’m just saying. Maybe it was to tv guys drooling all over him. Those guys acted like 13 year olds teeny boppers in the presense of the Jonas Brothers.

Like I said, I regrettably missed Run DMC but hopefully I will get a chance to check it out in the near future. If you watched the show, let us know what you thought about the festivities in the comments below.

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I heard it on Sirius Octane this morning and I - like the DJ who introduced the song - have been struggling with it since (just a little bit). On one hand, from a creative freedom standpoint,  it is cool that Seether has the balls to cover a tune by a band that - to put it mildly - doesn’t quite fit the their image.  

On the other hand, from a shoot-yourself-in-the-foot standpoint, you have to wonder what their fans think about it. I can’t imagine that the typical hard rock fan is pumped to sing along with “I’m never gonna dance again…”. And speaking from a long history as a metalhead, this sort of thing would be punishable by death back in the day (lol).

Now I don’t mind Seether and the 80’s teenager that still hangs out inside of me has a soft spot for “Careless Whisper”. But, I am just not so sure they belong together. What do you think?

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The Label

Based out of Detroit, Small Stone - for the most part - represent bands that are of the stoner rock ilk, but, they aren’t afraid to mix it up - one of my favorite finds, happens to be country.

They have stood the test of time and have been putting out their brand of music since 1995. In an April 2008 article on Metromix,  the founder Scott Hamilton explained that he wanted to model the label after Sub Pop. He also defined stoner rock as being “just a really amped up version of classic rock” with “a bunch of fat guys with beards in the crowd.” You gotta love the honesty.

The Bands

Here  are some of the bands that caught my attention. And, to give you sort of a jumping off point, I’ve listed a tune or two from each (which by the way have made it into heavy rotation on my iPod).

Oh and just so you know, you can buy the cd’s on Small Stones site and if you are the mp3 type, everyone of these artists - and the tunes listed - are available for immediate download on emusic (which means you can get them for free if you don’t have an emusic account).

Anyway, check these bands out;

Roadsaw - If you are fan of early Soundgarden circa “Louder Than Love” - or just grunge in general - you need to check these guys out. I love vocals and the smooth grind that is present throughout.

I think your best bet to get a feel for what these guys can do is to get started with “Up To You” and “It’s Your Move”.

Whitey Morgan and the 78’s -  WARNING: When combined with good weather, good booze and good friends, the music of Whitey Ford could leave you with a splitting headache and a pissed off boss.

This band takes a well needed and refreshing approach to old school country. They easily slip into all of the elements of 70’s era outlaw and all of their tunes will make Waylon, Wille and Bosephus fans very, very happy (and a little jagged).

I recommend that you download the whole album but if you are only going to stick your toe in the water, make sure you check out “Crazy” and “If It Ain’t Broke”.

Mos Generator -  The riff heavy tunes that these guys are laying down are immediately addictive. The tune “Acapulco Gold” - which could easily be the love child of Steely Dan and Monster Magnet - documents a love affair of the smokin kind. And “Wizards of the Prophecy Pen” is a well produced tune that could very easily be an early Sabbath tune. Grab them!

There, now you have some stuff too listen to as we all wait for summer. Remember, all of this stuff is on eMusic for immediate download and if you are still doin the CD thang, check out the Small Stone online store.

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Well, that whole experience reminded me of some of the amazing video I’ve seen on YouTube of various child musical prodigies. Young children that play instruments and sound like they have been playing for years.

I went and I rounded up a few videos to share with you. Check’em out now.

A little “Crazy Train” from a little guy whose guitar is bigger than him.

And listen to this guy play the blues. Damn, just wait until he gets his heart broken!

Jawdropping classical piano from a little girl.

A young Neil Peart in the making.

And check out this little drummer boy with the HUGE smile on his face.

I know there are plenty more, so if that wasn’t enough for you, just hop onto YouTube and see what you can find.

Oh and I’m not on YouTube a whole lot but if you are in the neighborhood, stop by and say hi. I’d love to see what vidoes you are checking out. I am Musicgoat1.

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Guest post: Treadmarkz is my brother-in-law, a Human Beatles Encyclopedia and the author of the weblog Treadmarkz.wordpress.com.

Well, clearly the beef between Apple Corps and Apple Computers that started a while back is still bitter as ever, and unfortunately this will deny listeners who live and die by the iPod access to the Beatles music. But, lo! Here it is! The Beatles Rock Band arrives in stores on September 9th!

The upcoming release of the Fabs’ foray into the gamer world is exciting for me. Because it is yet another confirmation of what I have been telling the Musicgoat for years: the Beatles, as a cultural phenomenon, will never - yes I said Never - die.

If I had an Xbox, Playstation or Wii, I would definitely shell out the $99.99 to get myself an imitation McCartney violin bass, or a Harrison twelve-string Rickenbacker which is included for use with the game. I would have liked more information on what specifically is included in the Special Edition. For $249, you want to know, and you want time to save up for it if it is what you want. I am sure it is not worth it unless you get an imitation Beatles sitar, Moog synthesizer, harmonium, tape loop machine, wind machine, and calliope, so I can play the Beatles’ studio-era music to the full effect.

But even if not, wow, music in video games has come a helluva long way since the Mario Bros theme song, huh?

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Tech-FAQ.com’s “Convert Your iTunes to MP3 and Convert iTunes to MP3 Format (Ask Bob Rankin).

They look simple but maybe a tad bit time consuming. However, it could be a small price to pay if you are worried about losing your tunes or looking to standardize your collection.

I don’t think it will be long before most of the music download services go DRM free but these techniques look like they should get you by until.

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For instance, I will do a hard rock/metal oriented podcast one month, follow it up with an indie acoustic country show the next month and then post a review on a Hip Hop artist that has caught my ear the next. As you can imagine certain fans - within either genre - could get a little annoyed and therefore not stick around (which is a bummer but you can’t please everybody right?).

Anyway, I knew this would make it more difficult to build an audience but this is the most honest way for me to approach a music site. I knew I couldn’t talk about one style over and over when there is just to much to like from many other genres. Also, I knew that there were others out there who like to mix it up as well and I figured this would pose a great opportunity to find them.

Now, why am I telling you this? Well I just learned the other day that the Musicgoat made number 36 on the list of Top 50 Twitter Users in Hard Rock and Metal.

What that means is that I haven’t completely alienated the metal community, in particular one of its biggest proponents, Marc Mark Carras (RockMyMonkey.com and HeavyAsHell.com). Mark, the author of the list, is one hardcore fan of all things metal. Having him endorse the Goat is an honor. Thanks Marc!

The list also features some pretty high profile rockers, writers and labels so you might want to look through to see is there is anyone you might want to follow. Check it out! And if you want to follow me, be my guest. Just look to the right in the sidebar under “Find Me Online.

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Early this morning, like any other morning lately, I reluctantly drug my ass out of a warm bed, shuffled my son through our pre-dawn sleepwalk and then headed out the door to what was looking like a long day at work.

I was tired, it was freakin cold and the snow was falling (again). I turned the key in the ignition, backed out of my driveway and this began to play…

Pssst…press play

Song is: Lubriphonic - “Walls”

…Out from the speakers came this mental massage and the feeling of “everything my friend…is gonna be alright.” That massage and that reassurance were provided by a band called, Lubriphonic on their release entitled “Soul Solution.” Like an old freind sitting next to me in the car, that CD hung out with me for the remainder of that day - and the next - and then made its way to these pages.

The band - based out of Chicago - is loaded with road tested musicians who have toured with the likes of Koko Taylor, Buddy Miles, The Ohio Players and Lenny Kravitz.

These pros have put together a disc that has a little bit of everything. If you dig soul, blues, classic rock, great guitar, a little bit of funk and a soaring horn section, you will lap this up.

Oh and I can’t forget to mention the soulful “i’ve been there” vocals, the ultra-nimble fingers that make the guitar and bass flow and groove, and man, the acoustic tunes on this disc are about as honest, as comfy and as real as it gets.

I like almost all of the tunes but make sure you check out “Rain Keep Falling”, “Walls”, “Chalk Talk, “Mexico City Blues”, and “Soul Solution.” I would also recommend ordering the CD so that you can hear the bonus live tunes. They are well worth the wait!

So there you have it, a music review for you and a great start to the day for me. Thanks Lubriphonic!

Now, do yourself a favor, go download ALL of the tunes on “Soul Solution.

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I am not going to try to get the design and layout done in one shot but rather over the course of days - maybe weeks, lol. Well see. I am doing that because, for one, my time is limited, and two, sometimes it takes awhile to get something right (kinda like a good recipe or a good song).

Anyway, it shouldn’t effect anything but just thought I would let you know. Feel free to jump in with your thoughts. Later!

Update: I am trying out the tagline, “For the Open Minded Fan and the Hard Workin Band.” I am trying to come up with something that conveys what I do here; 1) share new music - in a variety of styles - with the fans and 2) help bands and artists promote their music by either playing or reviewing myself or share some of my internet marketing know-how.

I will keep it up there for a few days to see if it grows on me. If you like it, dislike it or have any other ideas, I am all ears. Feel free to let me know in the comments below or by using the contact form.

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Now I didn’t see John Mayer, Springsteen or Metallica looking for work on any of the sites - not that most of us could afford their services anyway - but, if you look listen around, you will find some talented artists for some pretty reasonable prices. And I imagine the talent pool will only get better as the popularity of these sites grows.

I think it is a great idea for both the fans and the artists. Hell, as soon as I get my music up and running, you can bet I will be throwing up a profile on one or all of these sites. I mean, how cool would it be to be invited into someones home to party with someones closest friends AND get paid?

So next time you are looking for a live music fix, why go out to the club or coffee shop? Hop on to one of these sites and then hire yourself a capable musician to entertain you - and your pals - right in the comfort of your own home.

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Anyway, I just wanted to let you know. Hey, maybe this would be a good time for you to catch up on - or revisit - some of the older Melting Pot Podcasts.

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I just love the format of the show. It is recorded in a theatre in front of a live audience - the sound quality is impeccable. It features interviews and short sets by two different artists that come from separate backgrounds and influences. At the end of the show the two artist - who may have never met - get together for an impromptu jam on some cover tune.

Some of the bigger names that I’ve heard on the show are Ben Harper, Steve Earle and Jakob Dylan. But, you will - without a doubt - find yourself Googling some of the other names that you hear. All the artists on E Town are top notch.

Other than the music, there something which also makes the show stand out. Each show they give an “Echievement” award to someone who is out there making a difference in the world. Some of the things that these everyday individuals are accomplishing in the name of helping out their fellow man are unbelievable. Inspiring to say the least.

Overall, here are all the words that come to mind when I think E Town; mellow, laidback, thought proving, feel good, inspiring, acoustic, absorbing. It is just a great show to listen to if you just want to kick back or be inspired (and who doesn’t want that). Also, the fact that it is live in front of a studio audience gives it a warm, personal and ambient quality just sucks you in.

Now do your soul a favor and check out E Town.org.

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A few months back I started looking around for places to send my songs so that - if ever get around to finishing and recording them - I would have a solid strategy for giving them the best chance to be heard by reliable poeple.

I know, it is a pretty “horse before the cart” approach but never mind me, I wrote this to help you. Here goes.

The first place I looked…

Taxi.com - After reading about this site in the book “The Craft and Business of Songwriting” I figured it was the best place to start. Once I visited I was impressed. I read a ton of the stuff on their site and then signed up for their free newsletter.

It costs money but when you consider the access you have to and solid feedback from - as Taxi refers to them as - “well paid” music industry veterans and other entertainment professionals, it is a no-brainer.

Check out Taxi now and see for yourself.

There are more but….

If you want to find other sources check out this Google search for “music industry directory”. Although, after looking through some of the top results I’m not sure many of them are as reliable, trustworthy and, most of all, effective as Taxi (but if you know different or of more, let me know so I can share).

Take it to the people…

While your demo is waiting to be heard and critiqued by the pros, why not see if you can create some buzz by taking it to the poeple.

There are tons of poeple who are looking for stuff to write about and play. Better yet, there are a ton more jonesing to read about and hear new music from those poeple. Go find them now on these sites.

Indie Bible -For a measly $34.95, this 330 page music marketing Swiss Army Knife will show you how to get access to 4000 music publications willing to do reviews, 3200 radio stations willing to play your songs along with 1200 other resources looking to help you get the word out.

I know this works because the Musicgoat is listed in here and I get bombarded with tons of mail - e and snail - filled with CD’s, mp3’s, press releases, review requests, etc.  Go get a copy now.

Sonicbids - I am sure you know that Getting out and playing your tunes live is where to rubber meats the road. This site helps bands and artists get gigs along with providing a ton of promotional tools to save you time and headaches.

Quite a few of the bands that submit stuff to this site use this and I love it because everything I need to know and hear about the band is in one place and easy to find. Check out their Free trial.

Update!

Music Business Radio - This is a great podcast - based in Nashville, TN - with interviews with leaders from around the music indusrty. They also have a segment that they call “Dave’s Demo Derby” where they play music for the guests (some of which are heads of record labels). You can visit the Music Business Radio contact page for more info. On a few occasions, I have heard some of the guests ask for more info on the artist because they like what they heard. Who knows, maybe your music will strike a tune with an influencial music industry person.

Others - Check out sites like Garageband and the Podsafe Music Network. Also, make sure you check out my blogroll - on the left - for some of my favorite blogs and podcasts that are accepting music for review consideration.

I am sure I could sit here and rifle off a bunch more but I will stop. Besides, I don’t want your head to explode. This list alone should keep you busy for a really, really long time. And remember, if you know of a resource that has worked great for you or someone you know, let us know in the comments below. Until next time, have a good one.

You don’t want to miss the next review, podcast, music promotion tip. Subscribe to the Goat now for the all time low price of free. You can subscribe to Musicgoat.com by email - and have this stuff in your inbox seconds after I post it - or you can subscribe in your feed reader or on your home page. Either way you get all the kick ass content from the Goat fast and easy. Don’t understand this whole subscribing thing? Check out this short video on RSS. Isn’t technology great?

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I was flipping through eMusic the other day when I noticed a new release by an old favorite of mine, Extreme. I was a little apprehensive at first but figured what the hell, I’ll download it. Boy am I glad I did. Here is a quick review.

The title of the release is “Saudades De Rock“. In the opening line on the track “Slide” Gary Cherone sings “Find a groove and then drop the hammer.” That pretty much sums up most of the tunes on the release.

One of the reason i was a fan of Extemes music was because I am a sucker for good guitar. I always loved Nuno’s guitar work and this release did not do anything to change that. He is one of a seemingly dieing breed of guitarists who can dance over the fretboard, navigating a path of tasty grooves throughout every song.

The whole CD is about what you would expect from Extreme if you were a fan of some of the their popular stuff like “Pornograffitti” and/or “Three Sides to Every Story” but they do venture into new territory and pull it off well.

Bottom line, if you love active guitar, meaty grooves and solid songwriting, this is a no-brainer.

FEED YOUR POD! If you are interested in downloading any music - including the stuff discussed in this post - while at the same time supporting Musicgoat.com, click on the image above or use either of the following Musicgoat-friendly links: eMusic, Amazon.
THANKS and YOU ROCK!

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Press play and listen as we explore some newer metal music ranging from Hard Rock to Thrash.

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;
Robot Lords of Tokyo - “Mergatroid” (get it free on eMusic)
Robot Lords of Tokyo - “Belly Full of Greed”
DC4 - “Candy Caine” (get it free on eMusic)
SNEW - “Got Love” (get it free on eMusic)
SNEW - “She’s A Real Gunslinger” (get it free on eMusic)
American Angel - “Turns to Grey” (get it free on eMusic)
Top Johnny - “X-Tasy”
Exodus - “Children of a Worthless God” (get it free on eMusic)

Websites Mentioned on this podcast;
SNEW frontman interview on the Classic Metal Show

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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I remember the show well and I really had a great time. Hopefully this means I will get another spot somewhere down the line.

If you haven’t ever listened to Social Blend, go check out the Social Blend Best of 2008 Podcast now to get a taste.

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Also, I figured it would be an great opportunity for you and I to sit down and have a holiday beverage together.

Lets do it. Grab something to drink, press play and have yourself a merry Christmas.

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;
Geoff Smith - “Some Christmas Higgin and Kissin”
Winzenreid aka Hollywood Drunks - “Here Comes Santa Claus”
Skid Row - “Jingle Bells” (Monster Ballads Christmas)
Tom Kiefer of Cinderella - “Blue Christmas” (Monster Ballads Christmas)
My. Vegas - “Hey Santa”
Rockosaurus Rex - “Auld Lang Syne”

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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See if you agree by pressing play now.

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;
Hype - “Push Me” (Available at CDBaby and iTunes)
Kelly Richey Band - “I Want You” (get it free on eMusic)
John Taglieri - “Booty Call” (get his older stuff free on eMusic)
Pauline Pisano - “Don’t Forget” (get it free on eMusic)
G Tom Mac - “Wish You Well” (get their older stuff free on eMusic)
Daydream On Autopilot - “Better Off Alone” (get it free on eMusic)
Daydream on Autopilot - “Call Me” (Blondie Cover)

Websites Mentioned on this podcast;
Mike Cameo’s Indie Top 10
Social Blend
Mixx.com

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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If you like a great mix of different types of music (which i am sure you do since you are reading this on the Musicgoat) you will fully enjoy what they have to offer.

Why don’t you go check it out now while I find a place for the site in my blogroll.

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Check out the wave of energetic goodness that these bands are offering up.

Press play NOW!

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;

The Maine - “Everything I Ask For” (get it free on eMusic)
Second Dan - “Running Out of Feelings” (get it free on eMusic)
Career Club - “Old Fashioned” (get it free on eMusic)
Wake of the Titan - “Maybe Tomorrow”
Dawn Delete - “June 21″
ISM - “Sacred Cows”

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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I recently moved accross town into a new house and have been busy doing all the things you do when you move. 

For those of you who are looking to submit music for review, shoot me an email so that I can get you my new address.  i wasn’t able to get in contact with everyone and I think I may have missed the Indie Bible publishing deadline so I may be wrong there too. BUT, like I said, shoot me an email.

Anyway, just wanted to let you know I am still alive and that i miss play music for you. See you soon.

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For best results, grabs some good Headphones.

Find yourself a nice, relaxing place and press play now.

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;
Supersuckers - “I Don’t Wanna Know”
Darrin James Band - “Thrones of Gold” (get it free on eMusic)
Hello Dave - “Mountains”
James Dunn - “Oak Tree”
Bill Johnston - “Devil on My Shoulder”
Ethan Stone - “Ain’t That the Way”
Jon Nicholas - “Grandmas Getting High”
Great Big Sea - “Straight to Hell” (get it free on eMusic)
Fabulous Hats - “Lets Go to Vegas”
Stuckey and Murray - “Taking A Dump at Work”(get it free on eMusic)

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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Press play now and enjoy. Simple as that.

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;
Stripwired - “Another Shot” (get it free on eMusic)
Lauren Harris - “Steal Your Fire” (get it free on eMusic)
Crash Kelly - “Ride the Wire”
Moonstone Project - “Slave of Time”

Other sites and podcasts mentioned in this show;
Sneak peak of the new Metallica “Death Magnetic” Rock and Roll Geek Show style

BRAIN FART ALERT: My apologies to Lauren Harris. I said your name correctly the first time but then - right before the song - I mentioned some other Lauren.

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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You are about to listen to what could possibly be my best metal podcast yet!

Press play and brighten your f#$@%n day.

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;
Dream Evil - “Fire Battle in Metal” (get it free on eMusic)
FEFF - “I’ll Tell You”
Sevendust - “Deathstar”
Warrel Dane - “When We Pray” (get it free on eMusic)
Ground Mower - “Down”
Pride Tiger - “The Lucky Ones”
Supagroup - “Born in Exile”
Paradise - “Lady Luck”

Other sites and podcasts mentioned in this show;
Live Metallica with King Diamond ..very cool
Heavy metal christmas album on the way (yep you read that right)
Mike Cameo’s Indie Top 10 Rock Podcast

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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Yep, we are going to the beach or the bar or wherever and we are gonna have couple….and just chill!

Hold that thought, press play and check out my latest offering…

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and the links to each artists website;
Bag of Toys - “Smile So Wide” (get it free on eMusic)
Ruby Rendrag - “Meditation”
Kelly Zullo - “Where You’re Hiding”
Old Crow Medicine - “Caroline” (get it free on eMusic)
Hello Dave - “Perfect Day”
Jacob Gehret - “Won’t Remember Me”
Collective Soul - “All That I Know”
Rob Anthony - “You’re the One”

Stop by my iTunes page now, tell me what you think by posting a comment and then subscribe.

Other sites mentioned in this show;
Rolling Stones “Top Ten Fictional Bands”

BRAIN FART ALERT - I said Bag of Toys music was going to be on the Fox show “House”, I was wrong. The show they will be on is “Bones.” Sorry guys!

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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I am sure you have heard all the hubbub, but maybe you never quite knew what it was all about, this thing, this MANIA called the Beatles. If you have been thinking of getting into the Beatles (and I mean really into the Beatles, not just buying their latest Greatest hits compilation) this is not the Beatles’ Top 12 Best Albums, and I am not reviewing each album. This is just the order you need to buy them in, in order to feel the full effect of what they did.

The chronological order in which they were originally released seems like the most sensible way to do it. But this isn’t sensible. If you get into the Beatles you have to be prepared for a little disjointedness and things that come out of left field. You don’t have to follow this guide exactly, and as you will see, I give you opportunities to make your own choice. Also, this is just the original Beatles Music we are talking about here, not Let It Be…Naked, or the Love Album. Having said that, I give you…The List:

1. Rubber Soul, 1965: This is the album that really showed the progression starting to happen. The two previous albums showed a little bit of experimentation, but it was more superficial, whereas the progress the Beatles made on Rubber Soul had some substance. Better lyrics and more interesting innovations musically. But the main reason why this is the first Beatles album you need to get is that this shows where they had been and where they were going, musically.

NOTE: If you are going to get the Beatles Past Masters I & II albums (compilations of songs that are not on their albums), and I recommend you do, I think you should get them at this point. They will help guide you through.

2./3. A Hard Day’s Night, 1964/Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart’s Club Band, 1967: Okay here is where you get to make a decision on your own. No matter which of these two you choose first, these are the next two albums you need. You will find out quickly from Rubber Soul what you like about the Beatles. So if you liked the poppy, peppy, happy songs from Rubber Soul (mostly Paul’s) then your next move would have to be A Hard Day’s Night. It is the first Beatles album which was composed entirely by the Beatles themselves. No cover tunes. A big step for the Beatles and mankind.

If you found that in Rubber Soul you got more from the down-tempo, more thoughtful songs (mostly John’s) then I would move forward and make your second pick Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart’s Club Band. This is where the progress they were making on Rubber Soul completely came into fruition. Though John did not do as much on Pepper’s as on Rubber Soul, it was his infusion of Bob Dylan-like lyrics into the Beatles repertoire which strongly affected the music on Pepper’s.

4. Revolver, 1966: If your last pick was Pepper’s, you will want to know how they got from Rubber Soul to Pepper’s. It was a hell of a jump, musically, but with Revolver you get to fill in the blank, while still getting a taste of pre-Rubber Soul moptop from Paul. However, if A Hard Day’s Night was your last pick, then Revolver will serve the purpose of blowing your mind. Get ready.

5. Abbey Road, 1969: Simply the Beatles final recorded album giving generations of rockers something to strive for. This is the benchmark.

It was important that you get a taste of every era of the Beatles music before we move on. Now that you have, with the core of the band’s progressive era covered, you need an album that can show you everything that the Beatles were capable of. And I think from country, to reggae to hard rock to classical, we can only find the answer in….

6. The Beatles, aka The White Album, 1968: The Beatles was an album that, like Rubber Soul, gives listeners a chance to decide what they really like about the Beatles. Did you like the straight up rock songs, or did you like it when they tried something unusual for pop/rock? Well the White Album gives you a little bit of both with a splash of something new…Heavy Metal! This is the album that brought us “Helter Skelter” but it also has a few other head-bangers like “Everybody’s Got Something To Hide Except Me and My Monkey”, “Birthday” and “Yer Blues” which is really metal-blues. So if you are hooked on the Beatles, and at this point you should be, then you are probably ready for a double album. Go for it. You will not be disappointed.

7. Help!, 1965: Time to cool it down again. Time for something a little more predictable yet captivating. Help! came out just months before Rubber Soul, where we started. This one is just full of great songs, and I think that is what we need right now. “Yesterday”, “You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away” “Help!” and “Ticket To Ride” are all essentials and they are all here. This album will prove that song after song about love can still be interesting! And if you like it, then…

8. Beatles For Sale, 1964: Now we are really getting back to the moptop days. But this one is interesting because, just like Help!, it shows of the Beatles country/folk chops, without losing that pop flair. There are a lot of cover songs on here as there will be for the remainder. But the Beatles self-penned songs are introspective, and you are able to put yourself in the story. For the first time the Beatles really “take you there” on Beatles For Sale.

9. Let It Be, 1969: We don’t want you to delve too far back into the catalogue. You should probably now pick up Let It Be. Though it is often considered the Beatles most disappointing album, that is only because of what they had done in the few years leading up to Let It Be. They had changed the entire definition of rock music with Revolver and Sgt. Pepper!! So of course it was disappointing for fans to hear them going back to their roots, which is exactly what this is. But you will still get a little taste of psychedelia from “Across the Universe” and “I Me Mine”.

And if that is what you liked…

10. Magical Mystery Tour, 1967: It is kind of like the Beatles trying to expand on the concept of Sgt. Pepper’s but not quite getting there, but it is chock full of great singles, much like the Help! album, but much weirder. “All You Need Is Love” and “I am The Walrus” are on this one, and it is the only place you will get “Strawberry Fields Forever” or “Penny Lane” unless you’ve already got the “1″ album. And if you do, I hope this list has helped you take your Beatles listening further.

11./12. Please Please Me/With the Beatles, both from 1963: The beginning of the Fab Four. These albums show you where the Beatles came from. On these two albums, which really could be considered Vol. 1 and 2 of the same album, they bring you covers of the music that they loved when they were a struggling bar band, and they bring you their hand-written songs in which they use what they learned from the music they loved. To me, it really doesn’t matter which of these two you get first.

13. Yellow Submarine Songtrack, 1999 or the Yellow Submarine Soundtrack: It is up to you which one you get, but there is a huge difference. Either way you are only getting four songs that you haven’t already heard before. But the difference is this: The Soundtrack has the four songs you have never heard before, along with the song “Yellow Submarine” and “All You Need Is Love”, and rest is instrumentals by the George Martin Orchestra, if you are into that. The Songtrack on the other hand, has the aforementioned four “new” songs, and 11 other random songs taken from Rubber Soul to Magical Mystery Tour which appear in the film. It is a nice mix and you can get your fix of a couple of different eras in Beatles music without having to switch CDs.

Welcome to Beatledom, my friends. Enjoy!

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I’ve been trying to get permission - for a few months now - to play some of their stuff on the podcast but haven’t had any luck. Today I was soaking them in while riding in my car and figured it was time I said something via a quick post.

Their latest release “When Life Gives You Lemons, Paint That Shit Gold” offers up a little something for everyone and you can tell they’ve been at it for awhile (this is their fifth full length album). The sound quality is top notch, the rhymes are heartfelt and thought provoking. These dudes are seasoned pros.

Overall, the release deserves at least a listen from anyone with a wide music pallet. And if you are a hip hop diehard (Dubz!), just download “When Life Gives You Lemons” now….trust me.

Check it out and if you agree or disagree, let us know in the comments below. Oh, and if you are not sure where to start, give my favorites a listen; “Yesterday”, “Guarantees”, “Wild Wild Horses”, “The Waitress”, and “In Her Music Box.”

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Well todays episode is the music equivalent to one of his creations, but, instead of fruits and vegetables, I used classic rock, crunk, downtempo, rap, indie pop, and a few others styles to make you one earlicious dose of music goodness.

Press play now and indulge (for best results, use headphones).

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NEW! Have a comment, request or review of your own that you would like played on the show? Call (206)202-7672 now and leave a message.

Here are the songs heard on this podcast and links to each artists website;
T.H. White - “Private People” (get it free on eMusic)
Easy Way Out - “High Life”
The Brew - “Here to Change Things”
Black Velvet Elvis - “The Girl With Strawberry Hair” (get it free on eMusic)
Get Back Loretta - “Dreams Got Scattered”
The Reveals - “Want You Back”
The Black Ghosts - “Repetition”
The Dares - Love Me When I Leave”

Stop by my iTunes page now, tell me what you think by posting a comment and then subscribe.

Other podcasts mentioned in this show;
Take The Easy Way Out Podcast
Crunk Rock Radio

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

Advertisement: Get 25 Free Downloads from eMusic

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Don’t believe me? Press play now and see for yourself.

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Have a comment, request or review of your own that you would like played on the show? Call (206)202-7672 now and leave a message.

Here are the songs heard on this podcast and links to the artists website;
Cross Canadian Ragweed - “Record Exec”
Cross Canadian Ragweed - “Boy’s From Oklahoma” (get it free on eMusic)
Cross Canadian Ragweed - “Cry Lonely”

Other sites mentioned on this episode:
Mudstone Music (Thanks again Jason)

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They seem like pretty cool guys and genuinely appreciative of everyone that came to the show. They reminded me of why I play music and why I need to get my ass out and play more.

So anyway, get your ass over to their website and - if at all possible - find a live show in your area and go check them out ASAP. Take your wife, girlfriend or both and grab a few buddies because you will have a good time. You just can’t beat live music.

In the meantime, grab a CD or download a few tunes. They have a pretty deep catalog but a good start would be there newest release “Mission California.” It doesn’t have a bad song on it.

P.S. I want to thank Jason from Mudstone Music for turning me on to these guys and for inviting me to the show.

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Recently a discussion popped up in the comment section over on GuitarFlame.com about why dreams die. This really got me thinking since I have gone through long stretches in my life where I let my passion for music fall by the wayside for one reason or another.

There was always something; either I didn’t feel as though I was good enough, maybe life got in the way or perhaps my guitar was buried under mounds of crap in a storage unit or basement - Out of site out of mind…not good my friend.

So how can you keep the guitar hummin - and the passion burnin - on a regular basis?

It’s real simple….make sure you see your guitar at all times. Set that sucker next to the TV, computer or somewhere else where you will be able to see it alot. If it is there you will pick it up, trust me. It will call to you.

Even if you pick it up for just two minutes on one occasion, that’s fine, BUT there will be that time where a quick pick up turns into a stress relieving marathon or an inspiring journey of learning and discovery (how’s that for cheesy?).

But seriously, go right now and dig that sucker out. If it doesn’t pull a few chords out of you right then and there, just find a good spot to put it in and go about your business. It will call to you sooner or later.

Oh and before I let you go, a few words of caution. Wives, husbands, girlfriends, boyfreinds or all of the above may not find the instrument visually appealing as it relates to your home decor. You’ll have to figure that part out by yourself. I suggest learning or writing a ballad or two (wink, wink).

Happy jamming!

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and links to each artists website;
Leaf Hound - “To Many Rock and Roll Times”
Merle Haggard - “If You’ve Got the Money, I’ve Got the Time”
Drive By Truckers - “Gravity’s Gone” (get it free on eMusic)
Waiting for Decay - “Self Destruct”
Maggot Brain - “Second Chance”
Delilah Why - “How Was I”
Neal Fox - “A Long Way To Go Now” (get his older stuff free on eMusic)
Copper Box - “Need A Little Squeezin”

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Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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A) Listen to during your workout or run.
B) Listen while standing around the keg or having a few brews with friends.
C) Listen to supercharge the start of your day.
D) Listen to while surfing the web or gaming.
E) Listen to while commuting.
F) All of the above.

Find out why you should have answered with “F” by pressing play now.

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Here are the songs heard on this podcast and links to each artists website;
Firewind -”Falling to Pieces” (get it free on eMusic)
Diecast - “Fade Away” (get it free on eMusic)
Throw The Fight - “Endless Struggle”
W.A.S.P. - “Mercy” (get some classic WASP free on eMusic)
King - “Sweet Lorain”
Souls of We - “Everything I Want” (get it free on eMusic)
Mad Margritt - “Animal”(get it free on eMusic)
Firewind - Mercenary Man” (get it free on eMusic)
Lillian Axe - “Antarctica”

Other sites mentioned in this podcast;
The Classic Metal Show
Hear me talk music on the on a roundtable on the Social Blend metal special

Stop by my iTunes page now, tell me what you think by posting a comment and then subscribe.

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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See how the pieces all fit together by pressing play now.

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NEW! Have a comment, request or review of your own that you would like played on the show? Call (206)202-7672 now and leave a message.

Here are the songs heard on this podcast and links to each artists website;
Last November - “Sunday After Noon”(get it free on eMusic)
Nine Inch Nails - Discipline (Download Free at NIN.com)
The Crash Moderns - “Where’d All the Scene Girls Go”(get it free on eMusic)
Buckcherry - “Sorry”
Bob Mould - “The Silence Between Us”
Hot Rod Circuit - “Gin and Juice”
Black Ice (featuring Ice T and Black Silver) - “So Fly”
Three Miles Out - “Knock Me Down”

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Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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NEW! Have a comment, request or review of your own that you would like played on the show? Call (206)202-7672 now and leave a message.

Here are the songs heard on this podcast and links to each artists website;
James King - “Gold”
LouLou - “Sunday State of Mind”
Sean Costello - “Can’t Let Go” (get it free on eMusic)
Candy Butchers - “What To Do With Micheal”
Justin Hopkins - “Why Would God Ever Come to L.A.” (discover his older stuff free on eMusic)
Lo/Fi Pioneer - “Got To Know”
Jaik Miller - “Movin”
City and Colour - “Waiting” (discover his older stuff free on eMusic)

Other links mentioned in the show:
Experience what it’s like to be truly free. Watch the Into the Wild movie and be very glad you did.

Stop by my iTunes page now, tell me what you think by posting a comment and then subscribe.

Most of these and a ton of other great artists can be found on the Pod Safe Music Network.

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If you are wondering about the profile name - ckay44 - I created it before I had this blog.

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If you don’t know who I’m talking about, check out the podcast featuring the Undercover Hippy.

Read his words below and then join me in voting so we can get him some of the exposure he and his music deserve.

Hi Guys,

if I’ve asked you already, sorry! But I really need everyone to vote for me and to tell their friends to vote! (Details below)
Thanks! Hope you’re all well and happy!

VOTE FOR ME!
Hello my lovely friends!

Once again I need your help! I wasn’t booked to play the Sunrise Celebration festival this year, but I still have one chance at a slot on the Main Stage… it all depends if I can get enough votes!

All you need to do is click on the link below and enter your email address… it’s that simple…

Please show some love and take 30 seconds to do this J Also, please forward this to anyone else you think may want to help…

Here’s the link: Vote for the Undercover Hippy

OTHER NEWS

In other news, I’ve got lots of gigs booked for the coming months… check it all out on my website: www.undercoverhippy.com.

If you’re on FACEBOOK (come on, you know you are), then please become a fan of my Facebook Undercover Hippy page.

That way I can invite you to gigs and stuff…

I’ve got a new band developing as we speak… having our second rehearsal tomorrow, and our first gig on Thursday at the Tao Bar in Bristol . Check my website for details!

Right that’s all for now J

Cheers my dears!
Billy xx

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