Blog Feed: The Late Greats

Everyone’s favorite English soul-reggae-punk-hip-hop-blues-rock band The Heavy will release their 3rd album – The Glorious Dead – on August 21 via Counter Records/Ninja Tune. This should be a great end-of-summer album. Check out the jam below. Listen to “What Makes … Continue reading → > read more

Silly Music Bloggers, Trixie For Everyone

Published on 2012-05-21 06:09:48

Not sure why more people aren’t blogging about Trixie Whitley. Back in 2010, she lent her incredible voice to the Daniel Lanois project Black Dub. It was one of my favorite releases that year. She is working her solo debut. … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ Sweet Mary And Joseph – New Old Crow!!!

Published on 2012-05-18 06:09:12

News broke yesterday that Old Crow Medicine Show will be releasing a new album July 17th! Carry Me Back was produced by Ted Hutt (Gaslight Anthem, Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly). The band is extremely proud of their first studio album … Continue reading → > read more

Date Appropriate Songs ∞ Happy Mother’s Day

Published on 2012-05-13 20:18:54

(Get the song here!) > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-05-09 06:09:05

I am a little slow to catch on to The Lumineers. They have a rowdy, rootsy, Americana vibe that goes along with a lot of my other favorite bands. They are hitting the road this spring and summer – I … Continue reading → > read more

Album Review ∞ Ethan Lipton + His Orchestra – No Place To Go

Published on 2012-05-07 06:09:42

Ethan Lipton is a playwright and a songwriter. So it makes perfect sense for his new album to be the soundtrack to his play. Ethan and his orchestra write a musical/concept album about a man loosing his job. Of course, … Continue reading → > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday Perfect Soundtrack Party

Published on 2012-05-01 06:09:51

The Young Romans are Brad Hooks and Sari Mellafe. The duo makes perfectly sweet music, perfectly suited for soundtracks. In fact, their song “Where You Go” was the closing song from Ewan McGregor’s “Salmon Fishing In The Yemen”. Their new … Continue reading → > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Céu’s Hitting The Road

Published on 2012-04-24 06:09:12

Céu’s new album – Caravana Sereia Bloom – is the soundtrack for a roadtrip. To honor that theme (and that excellent record) she is hitting the road, American style. Go see her on tour: June 9 – Princeton, NJ – … Continue reading → > read more

Album Review ∞ Two Man Gentlemen Band – Two At A Time

Published on 2012-04-16 06:09:46

Now that April is have over, it’s time to start thinking about May, which means summer is right around the corner. As is the new album from The Two Man Gentleman Band. Tenor Guitarist Andy Bean and standup bassist Fuller … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ If I Had To Pick One Artist Who Will Make A HUGE Splash This Summer

Published on 2012-04-06 06:09:59

It would be Michael Kiwanuka. He’s got a voice smooth as soft serve and an school motown sound that will surly appeal to the masses. See the Brit on his North American Tour: June 9 — Atlanta, GA Smith Olde … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-04-04 06:09:27

My Dad pointed this out to me. Pretty sweet Hall & Oates cover (while driving, no less). Nicki Bluhm And The Gramblers hail from San Fran and use some of my favorite instruments (ukulele and melodica) and remind me a … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-03-21 06:09:46

Neal Casal is known for being a guitarist for Ryan Adams & The Cardinals AND The Chris Robinson Brotherhood. But he also makes his own music. His tenth album – Sweeten The Distance – comes out next month on Royal … Continue reading → > read more

Album Review ∞ Esperanza Spalding: Radio Music Society

Published on 2012-03-20 06:09:36

Esperanza Spalding’s new album drops today. She is a truly unique talent. A jazz bassist who has an impressive vocal range and a knack for writing catchy tunes. She is kind of a more sophisticated Erykah Badu. Sort of a … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-03-07 05:09:33

Céu is back. Céu is back. Céu is back. My favorite modern Brazilian songstress is back. Her new album – Caravana Sereia Bloom – drops April 3rd on Six Degrees. She describes the album as “…a collection of short tales … Continue reading → > read more

File Under “Pants Wetting Excited”

Published on 2012-03-06 07:13:16

Edward Sharpe And The Magnetic Zeros Announce New Album – HERE – released by Community Music/Vagrant Records on May 29, 2012. Hitting the road: MARCH 14th – Santa Ana, CA – The Observatory 15th – Tucson, AZ – Rialto Theatre … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song(s) This Week

Published on 2012-02-29 13:57:36

I’m shocked that is isn’t more music blog chatter about Carsie Blanton. She is a phenomenal lyricist and have a unique voice that sticks with you. Kinda like that last bit of potato chip wedged in your back right molar. … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-02-23 05:09:56

Quite simply the best laidback, oldskool-soul, bossajam I have heard so far this year. Listen (via SoundCloud): Watch: More info here. > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Happy Fat Tuesday People!

Published on 2012-02-21 05:09:06

My favorite Scandinavian New Orleans transplant has a new album – Street Parade – dropping in April. Check out the track below and get a free download of the title track with your email address. Perfect tune to get you … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-02-17 05:09:08

I realize I am a little late to this one. But the damn thing blows me away with each listen. How it goes from just Laura to that full band sound. Oooh. Ooooh. Oooooooh. Good stuff. Happy Friday everyone! > read more

Super-Mega-Monday Catch Up Post

Published on 2012-02-13 05:09:48

Hey readers, sorry it has been a while since I did one of these post things. The Duke has been a busy (and sick) guy. So to make up for some lost time here is a while bunch of good … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-02-02 05:09:09

With all the hullabaloo about the upcoming Grammy’s, let’s not forget who won “Best New Artist” last year – Esperanza Spalding. Her new album “Radio Music Society” drops March 20, 2012. Sort of a companion piece to her Grammy winning … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-01-25 05:09:41

Don’t get me wrong, I like Obama. I was just hoping to watch Raising Hope last night. So I was a little sad to see the State Of The Union take it’s place. BUT some good news hit my inbox … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-01-18 05:09:17

I heard this one on the radio the other day. I was impressed by the Arcade Fire meets Rusted Root meets (slight hint of) Animal Collective on Yo Gabba Gabba vibe. Don’t know much about the band. But this tune … Continue reading → > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ First Aid Kit Party

Published on 2012-01-17 05:09:18

Some musicians below in a different time period. Some below in a different country. Sweden’s First Aid Kit (sisters Klara and Johanna Soderberg) sound like they should have been making music in So-Cal’s Laurel Canyon in the ’70s. Their new … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2012-01-11 05:09:38

I’m addicted to this bossanova inspired version of the 80s classic. Rebecca Zapen is from Florida and takes this Robert Palmer song to a whole new country. Listen: Rebecca Zapen ∞ Addicted To Love Bonus mp3: Rebecca Zapen ∞ Lakewood > read more

Album Review ∞ Kathleen Edwards – Voyageur

Published on 2012-01-10 05:09:10

I’ve been a fan of Kathleen’s since her wonderful debut album. She has always approached music with a swagger not often found in females. She is not afraid to take risks or piss people off. She does it her way. … Continue reading → > read more

Album Preview ∞ AA Bondy – Believers

Published on 2011-07-05 06:09:09

News broke last week about AA Bondy’s new album “Believers”. Comes out 9-13 on Fat Possum. I don’t know much about it other then the track list below and the songs were “conjured during and between dreams, in bare rooms, > read more

A Beta-Alpha-Cal Glance At My Favorite Records Of 2011 (So Far) ∞ Parts Three, Four & Five

Published on 2011-06-30 20:52:44

I got involved with some training for my new job and missed blogging the rest of the week. So here is a quick catch up of the last three albums. If you’ve been reading The Late Greats they shouldn’t be … Continue reading → > read more

A Beta-Alpha-Cal Glance At My Favorite Records Of 2011 (So Far) ∞ Part Two

Published on 2011-06-28 06:43:09

This is a perfect album. Listen: The Low Anthem ∞ Ghost Woman Blues > read more

A Beta-Alpha-Cal Glance At My Favorite Records Of 2011 (So Far) ∞ Part One

Published on 2011-06-27 06:09:55

Hard to believe it is almost July. Which means a few things: fireworks are coming, summer is 1/3 over and it’s time to look back at the first half of the year. So this week, The Duke is going to … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ Let’s All Head To South Korea

Published on 2011-06-24 06:06:43

Megan Bonnell is based in Toronto. Her debut EP – Maps – came out last Tuesday. She crafts lovely piano-based music with simple, yet sweet melodies. It’s been raining here in Minnesota for what feels like years. The song below ̷ > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-06-22 08:43:43

I get like a gazillion emails every day from musicians, PR people, etc. It’s hard to weed through the submissions. Sometimes a name catches my eye – like when someone tours with Haley Bonar. That someone is Holcombe Waller. He’s > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Why Can’t We Be Happy Party

Published on 2011-06-21 06:08:37

Asa is from Nigeria/France. Her album – Beautiful Imperfection – comes out September 6th through Naïve Records. From the sound of song below, this worldly lady is ready to make a real name for herself in the “world” music gen > read more

Random Friday ∞ Have A Zazzy Weekend

Published on 2011-06-17 07:59:35

Straight outta France comes this jazzy singer Zaz. She is extremely popular in her homeland. Her US debut album is hitting shelves soon. This uptempo song is a perfect way to start your weekend. > read more

My Favorite Song This Week is A Wayback Wednesday

Published on 2011-06-15 06:16:21

Remember this song from ten years ago? I sure do! > read more

Compare & Contrast Tuesdays ∞ Hang With Me

Published on 2011-06-14 06:06:07

Sarah could sign a public service announcement and I would love it. > read more

Make(r)ing Your Monday And Possibly Your Week

Published on 2011-06-13 05:06:30

Thursday, on my lunch break at my new job, I was listening to Vin Scelsa in the car. He was enamored by Willem Maker. I was intrigued enough to check him out. Thankfully I did. And thankfully, you can too. … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ I Must Be A Lover Video

Published on 2011-06-10 07:02:28

The Guillemots released their video for “I Must Be A Lover”. It’s an overcast, dreary Friday here in MN. This colorful vid helps to make this Friday more bearable. > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-06-08 05:09:08

The Sleepy Vikings are a crafty little crew from Tampa. Their music is perfect for this heatwave hitting the midwest. Makes me laid-back and relaxed. The album came out a month ago. Listen: Sleepy Vikings ∞ Calm Sleepy Vikings Towers … Contin > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ I Swear It’s A Party

Published on 2011-06-07 06:07:36

This video is more proof that Sallie Ford is THE MOST IMPORTANT female singer out there right now. Sallie Ford & the Sound Outside – I Swear from Matthew Ross on Vimeo. > read more

Album Review ∞ Eilen Jewel: Queen Of The Minor Key

Published on 2011-06-06 06:07:07

As stated before, The Family Straw recently moved from PA to MN (technically WI for now – MN soon). The Duchess and I traveled about 3500 miles in less than a week. During all that traveling, Eilen Jewel’s latest album … Continu > read more

Moving

Published on 2011-06-01 05:34:03

The Family Straw is in the middle of moving 1100 miles from PA to MN. A return to posting is coming soon. > read more

Random Friday ∞ Blue Night

Published on 2011-05-27 06:08:11

The Family Straw will be driving all night from Thursday PM into Friday AM. 18 hours (or more) from PA to WI. Interstates 80 and 90. It’s a crazy trip to say the least, with two adults, two kids and … Continue reading → > read more

Not Sure How I Missed This One Thursday

Published on 2011-05-26 06:07:07

I missed on Kyp Harness a couple times. Not only did I miss his press release from April (the album came out 5-10 on Pigeon Row) but he’s released seven previous records, which I had never heard. Hailing from Canada, … Continue reading &# > read more

Date Appropriate Songs

Published on 2011-05-25 06:08:33

After 12 years at my “day job”, today is The Duke’s last day at Macoby Run. The end of an era. Good luck fellow workers, fellow golfers and friends. > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Celestial Inuk Party

Published on 2011-05-24 06:33:15

As stated many times, The Late Greats tries to champion unheard Canadian music. Maybe it’s because I spent four years in northern Wisconsin and one of my bandmates was Canadian. Who knows? No matter. What is important is Elisapie. An … Co > read more

Album Review ∞ Sallie Ford & The Sound Outside: Dirty Radio

Published on 2011-05-23 06:08:37

Tomorrow is an important day for three reasons: a) My sister’s Birthday, b) Bob Dylan turns 70, and c) Sallie Ford releases “Dirty Radio”. Sallie and her band (The Sound Outside) call Portland home. But listening to their music, you … > read more

Random Friday ∞ More Rain

Published on 2011-05-20 07:40:35

Here is PA, we have been bombarded by cloudy skies and rain showers for what seems like forever. This song from Bird Of Youth seems to compliment the current climate. Their debut album (produced by Will “Mr. Okkervill River Himself” … Con > read more

Nik Pik? Nah!

Published on 2011-05-19 06:06:09

I probably got loads of emails about Nik Freitas‘ 2008 album, but I didn’t listen. Not sure why. He’s back in 2011 with “Saturday Night Underwater”. The album drops in June. From what I hear and read, this will be … > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-05-18 06:07:04

For my money, Raising Hope is the best show on TV. And when my favorite show uses a song in the most perfect way, the song sticks. I’m slow to hope on the ES&TMZ bandwagon, but I’m glad I did. … Continue reading → > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Tourist Party

Published on 2011-05-17 06:06:05

I mentioned Sarah Jarosz a few weeks ago. Talked about her version of The Radiohead song “The Tourist” which features Chris Thile and The Punch Brothers. I’ll be honest with you, I’m not a Radiohead fan NOR a Bunch Brothers &# > read more

Album Review The Felice Brothers: Celebration, Florida

Published on 2011-05-16 06:07:43

The Felice Brothers cut their teeth as The Band 2.0. They played rootsy music as a group, where everyone added to the mix whether in songwriter or vocals or instrumentation. They recorded their stuff in “upstate” New York. They toured > read more

Random Friday ∞ Van Who?

Published on 2011-05-13 06:59:44

Don’t know who Van Dyke Parks is? You’ve probably heard some of his work. Composer/arranger/song-writer/jack-of-all-trades. Van Dyke is responsible for some of the best music in that last 50 years. He worked with Brian Wilson, Randy Newma > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-05-11 07:03:11

I love good reggae music. I love good Canadian music. Put them two together and you’ve got Late Greats music. Bedouin Soundclash are from Toronto and make some sweet sounding uptempo reggae/ska. They have a new US release – Light … > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Raving On Buddy Holly

Published on 2011-05-10 06:07:48

News broke last week about a star-studded Buddy Holly tribute album coming out 6/28 on Fantasy Records/Concord Music Group. Sure to be soundtrack for your summer. Take a listen to The Black Keys doing lead-off track “Dearest” Complete tra > read more

New Jolie Holland

Published on 2011-05-09 06:07:50

Last Monday, we featured some solo Frazey Ford – a member of The Be Good Tanyas. This Monday, we feature a former member of the band – Jolie Holland. Much Like Ms. Ford, Ms. Holland has a unique voice and … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ Abi Makes Me Happy

Published on 2011-05-06 06:07:17

If Abigail Washburn’s new album -City Of Refuge – doesn’t land on half a dozen “best of lists” in December, I’ll eat my hat. The banjo-plucking girl has talent. SiriusXM’s The Loft has been playing cuts off t > read more

Sweet! Sweet! Sweetback!

Published on 2011-05-05 06:08:15

The Sweetback Sisters are looking for a fight. And I for one, am not going to step into the ring. This band of retro-country-western-punk would surly kick my ass. The sextet makes music your grandparents would have purchased on ’45s … Con > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-05-04 06:07:02

I got a copy of Soema Montenegro’s “Passionaria” back in March. It completely knocked my socks off. Soema has the most incredible voice I have ever heard. She can do tricks and tumbles and cartwheels and tightrope walks with her > read more

How To Stay Warm In Duluth During Those Long Winters

Published on 2011-05-03 05:50:58

I went to school in Northern Wisconsin, a little over an hour from Duluth, MN. That was the largest town around. When my friends and I needed a break from small time life we would head over there for The … Continue reading → > read more

Out On The Weekend

Published on 2011-05-02 06:07:26

ChinaShop posted this video last week. Not only is it a truly amazing version of the Neil Young song by one of my favorite singers, this song happens to be the first song I ever played with Coconut (who’s birthday … Continue reading ͛ > read more

Random Friday ∞ Sallie Ford Friday

Published on 2011-04-29 06:31:12

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Sallie Ford. The new queen of rockabilly Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside – This Crew by Partisan Records See her live: Sallie Ford w/ Thao & Mirah: 5/1 – Los Angeles, CA @ … Continue reading & > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-04-27 07:30:33

You probably already know that The Duke likes posting about Canadian musicians. You probably already know that The Duke likes posting folk music. Which makes posting this new song from Kate Maki a double whammy. Kate is a school teacher … Conti > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Partying With My Girls

Published on 2011-04-26 07:08:10

I think Becca Stevens is about to erupt. Hailing from New York, The Times says she is a “Best-Kept Secret”. Her sophomore album just came out a week ago. A collection of 8 originals and 4 covers, including Animal Collectives’ … Cont > read more

Why The F*ck Is No One In America STILL NOT Blogging About ∞ The Trews

Published on 2011-04-25 07:08:58

My favorite riff-heavy rock band named after the Scottish word for pants (who happens to be from Canada) have returned with a new album: Hope and Ruin. The band sounds more mature on this release. You can tell they have … Continue reading & > read more

Date Appropriate Songs

Published on 2011-04-22 06:07:53

Today is kind of a bittersweet day for me. It marks the end of an era for The Duke. I have been cooking for golf tournaments at my day job for twelve years. Every Good Friday, I cook for a … Continue reading → > read more

Another Great Release Coming May 10

Published on 2011-04-21 07:08:30

Looks like 5-10 is going to mean spending BIG BUCKS for The Duke. You’ve got The Felice Brothers, Ben Sollee, Priscilla Ahn, Okkervil River and now Greg Brown. Greg is my all-time favorite singer-songwriter. His new record – Freak Flag &# > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-04-20 07:08:26

Happens to be a video: City of Music: Haley Bonar from MPLS.TV on Vimeo. Turns out Haley put out a new album yesterday – Golder. You can get it at Bandcamp for only $6. Stream it below. I only discovered … Continue reading → > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Annabelle Lee Party

Published on 2011-04-19 07:08:09

Maybe you have never heard of Sarah Jarosz. Maybe you don’t know she put out a great album two years ago (I wrote about it here). She is kind of a wunderkind. I don’t think there is an instrument she … Continue reading → > read more

Album Review: Inclusions by Ben Sollee

Published on 2011-04-18 07:08:02

In my opinion, Ben Sollee is one of the most important figures in music right now. He has consistantly been knocking out brilliant albums (both as a solo artist and with Daniel Martin Moore). When he tours, he likes to … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ Live Lewis & Clarke

Published on 2011-04-15 07:33:23

One of my favorite “local” bands is Lewis & Clarke. They call their music a lot of things (“avant-folk” or “Neo Baroque Post Folk”). I call it beautiful. Lou and company recently performed in Philly for WXPN. > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-04-13 07:08:00

I stumbled upon Stephanie Nilles the other day while viewing the Volume One website – checking out what’s happening in Eau Claire. (She’s play a free show in EC Thursday night.) Steph reminds me of a mix between Ani DiFranco … > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Felice Bro Stream Party

Published on 2011-04-12 08:20:01

If you can’t wait until that new Felice Brothers’ record is released (5-10), then you are in luck. AOL Spinner is streaming the whole album NOW. Pre-order from Fat Possum. And if you are going to Coachella, you’ll get to … Con > read more

Mid West Music Fest Monday

Published on 2011-04-11 07:08:58

The big news around The Family Straw house is we will be moving from PA to MN at the end of May. Trading The Duchess’ home town for my own. Sadly, we won’t be back in Winona in time for … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ My Mind Is Blown

Published on 2011-04-08 07:08:23

This is the first song I have heard in a while that made my jaw drop, made me wonder who it was by, made me sit in my car and wait until David Dye on The World Café announced the … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-04-06 07:08:24

I got an email about this song last Thursday. Damn thing’s been haunting me all week! Watch only if you want to be humming the tune for days. Jon Fratelli’s solo album – “Psycho Jukebox” – drops next week. > read more

First Monday Of April

Published on 2011-04-04 07:38:48

Hard to believe it’s April already. Not really ready for Monday. Hard to believe Spring might actually be here. Seems like Winter lasted forever. Thankfully there is the band Pillars & Tongues to get us geared up for April (the … Con > read more

Random Friday ∞ Yet Another Felice Brothers Friday

Published on 2011-04-01 07:08:27

With one month to go before The Felice Brothers release “Celebration, Florida”, the band has released the first single. And they had launched a photo contest. Take a pict with “Celebration, Florida – 5.10.11″ in it, send > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-03-31 07:08:04

I guess I’m kinda new to this bandwagon de Levek. A Gainesville school bus driver by day, a spaced-out soul-man by night. He’s got a couple releases out. Hit the “download” button and visit his bandcamp page for free downloads > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Horse Latitudes Party

Published on 2011-03-29 07:08:30

If there was one musical couple I could live next store to it would be Jeffrey Foucault and Kris Delmhorst. Not only do I love their music separately, but when they get together with Peter Mulvey and make music as … Continue reading → > read more

Album Preview – Eilen Jewel ∞ Queen Of The Minor Key

Published on 2011-03-28 07:08:58

My favorite female Americana sassafras singer-songwriter will be releasing a new album in June – Queen Of The Minor Key. Eilen Jewel has a few albums to her credit. And each one she gets a little better. Which means this … Continue readin > read more

Random Friday ∞ Until We Get New Feist, Jill Andrews Will Have To Do

Published on 2011-03-25 07:08:45

Got an email yesterday about Jill Andrews. Her new album comes out in June, which may seem a long way off. But then, who knows when we’ll get a new Feist record. Jill reminds me of Leslie, from her looks … Continue reading → > read more

Not Sure How I Missed This One Thursdays

Published on 2011-03-24 07:08:45

Pepper Rabbit! “Beauregard” came out last year. Two dudes making some incredible music, complete with some of my favorite instruments: ukulele, trumpets, xylophone, accordions to name a few. Pepper Rabbit – “Harvest Moon” > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-03-23 07:08:22

I’m kinda new to the Freelance Whales bandwagon. I understand their are about the hippest hipster band around (they found band members via Craigslist, they’re from Brooklyn, they have a girl in the group and they make their own instrument > read more

The Best 39 Minutes You Can Spend Online This Week

Published on 2011-03-21 07:00:02

I knew absolutely NOTHING about Soema Montenegro before I got an email from her PR people. She’s from Argentina. Her debut album – Uno Una Uno – came out in 2008. She’ll be releasing a new album this spring – … Con > read more

Random Friday ∞ Les Chauds Lapins

Published on 2011-03-18 06:56:17

One favorite playwrite/songrwriter (Ethan Lipton) invited me to a double bill show at 92Y Tribeca next Friday (the 25th). Ethan and his orchestra is sharing the stage with Les Chauds Lapins. The latter is a French swing band whose names … Conti > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-03-16 06:17:55

I think Steve Martin might be the most talented person on the planet – whether joking, actor, writing, picking the banjo or just about anything else. He continues to blow my mind. Yesterday, he released a new album of bluegrass … Continue > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Fingerpicking Party

Published on 2011-03-15 07:08:54

I feel like Megafuan is a band I should listen to. Not sure why I don’t. Mega-member Phil Cook has been studying old folk songs and the blues. And when he gets a chance, he plays his studies for his … Continue reading → > read more

Album Preview ∞ Celebration, Florida

Published on 2011-03-14 06:08:02

The Felice Brothers will release their new studio album (Celebration, Florida) on May 10 (just like Ben Sollee – busy shopping day for The Duke). From the press release: Celebration, Florida casts interweaving scenes of dreamy characters and st > read more

Random Friday ∞ New Ben Sollee

Published on 2011-03-11 06:08:20

Embrace from Ben Sollee on Vimeo. My favorite cellist will be releasing a new album on May, 10th – Inclusions. If you don’t know anything about Ben Sollee, you must be new to the Late Greats. His 2008 album – … Continue reading → > read more

Man, I Wish I Lived In The South West

Published on 2011-03-10 06:34:46

And no, not because of SXSW. Because of the Railroad Revival Tour. Old Crow Medicine Show, Mumford & Sons and Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros are taking to the rails for a six city tour. Half the shows are already … Continue reading > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-03-09 06:08:19

News broke yesterday that Explosions In The Sky are releasing a new album – “Take Care, Take Care, Take Care”. For the cost of an email, you can get the track below. A frantic number that has that distinct EITS … Continue read > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Doing Mardi Gras Again

Published on 2011-03-08 06:02:11

Just in time for Fat Tuesday, the Rebirth Brass Band announced they will release a new album April 12 – Rebirth Of New Orleans. If you don’t know anything about the RBB, you’ve never watched Tremé. Or you don’t like … C > read more

“Ear Out” Artist Releases New Song

Published on 2011-03-07 07:13:12

Work Drugs has a new song and video out for “Sunset Junction”. They are hitting the road with Two Door Cinema in April. More proof that these cats from Philly are headed in the right direction. Listen: Sunset Junction by … Continue > read more

Random Friday ∞ New Guillemots

Published on 2011-03-04 06:08:18

When I first heard David Wax Museum’s “Born With A Broken Heart” I was immediately reminded of the Guillemots. Back in 2007, their song “Trains To Brazil” was my most played song. Freaking loved it. Yesterday, news broken that the … C > read more

Sweet Music From Sweet Land

Published on 2011-03-03 06:08:14

I don’t watch too many movies. But one that I watched recently that I truly enjoyed was Sweet Land. The music fit perfectly in the period piece about Norwegian bachelor farmers – and no, it’s not based on something from Prai > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-03-02 06:08:36

Back in 2008, Thao and The Get Down Stay Down released one of the best songs that year – Bag Of Hammers. Since then, I have kept tabs on Thao. She’s joined up with Mirah (and Merrill Garbus of tUne-yaRds) … Continue reading → > read more

Perfect Stream For Today

Published on 2011-02-28 10:31:49

Head over to NPR and listen to Alexi Murdoch’s new album “Toward The Sun”. It’s a dreary, grey day in PA. Perfect album to listen to as the puddles trickle and rain drops drip from the bare tree limbs. > read more

11 To Keep An Ear Out For In 2011

Published on 2011-02-25 06:08:14

So every two years, I like to post a few musicians I think will make a splash in the coming year. I did it in ’07, when I said Amy Winehouse would be HUGE. Then again in ’09. So for … Continue reading → > read more

Having Some Issues…

Published on 2011-02-23 21:13:29

…with this website – stay tuned. > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-02-23 08:27:31

The Watson Twins are releasing an EP in April called “Night Covers”. A collection of songs by the likes of PJ Harvey, Bill Withers, Sade, The Turtles, Eurythmics and The Black Keys. The sisters channel their inner Beth Orton on … Continue r > read more

Album Review ∞ David Wax Museum – Everything Is Saved

Published on 2011-02-21 06:08:47

I could tell you all about David Wax Museum. History of the band, blah blah blah. But that kind of info never gets me excited to listen to music. I like reading about what the music sounds like before I … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ Felice Brothers Friday

Published on 2011-02-18 06:08:57

Big news about the band from Upstate NY: The Felice Brothers got signed to Fat Possum records and will release a new full length record later this spring. They’re hitting the road, too. I’ve seen the band live a few … Continue reading ͛ > read more

Totally Tempting

Published on 2011-02-17 06:08:32

Last night, I was feeling kind of blue. Wondering if doing this music blog was worth it. Wondering if anyone reads any of my posts anymore. But then I got an email. An email about a new Waifs album coming … Continue reading → > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-02-16 06:08:38

1996 was an eventful year for The Duke. I survived my first year of college. I met the woman who would become my wife. And I saw The Cowboy Junkies live in Minneapolis. Before the show started, I walked up … Continue reading → > read more

Date Appropriate Songs ∞ Fireside Fun (Valentine’s Mix)

Published on 2011-02-14 06:08:11

I made this mix back in 2007. Listened to it the other night and was impressed. Toss this on tonight post-dinner with your special someone. 1. Kaki King ∞ Nails 2. Beth Orton ∞ Safe In Your Arms 3. Pink … Continue reading → > read more

Random Friday ∞ Those Darlins, Bro!

Published on 2011-02-11 06:08:12

My favorite retro-cowbilly-punk-girl-group band has a new album coming out (pre-order it). Listen to the single below, perfect way to start your romantic weekend. > read more

Not Sure How I Missed This One Thursdays

Published on 2011-02-10 06:08:53

Not sure how I missed The Wailin’ Jennys releasing a new album this week. They got Mark Howard (Bob Dylan, Lucinda Williams) to produce and have a whole slew of Canada’s finest joining them: Bill Dillon (Joni Mitchell, Peter Gabriel), > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-02-09 06:08:14

I’ve been a fan of Peter Elkas since his 2007 release “Wall Of Fire”. He’s back four years later with a mostly self-recorded album that Peter worked on in his basement. (I can relate.) He worked with Ian McGettigan and … > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Ahn and Ahn, To The Break Of Dawn

Published on 2011-02-08 06:08:00

One of my favorite albums I still listen to from 2008 is Pricilla Ahn’s “A Good Day”. Her voice is smoother than creamy peanut butter on an Ambrosia apple (my son’s favorite new snack). Her 2011 release comes out in … Continue reading & > read more

Random Friday ∞ So Nice

Published on 2011-02-04 06:08:54

I dig Bossa Nova. In fact, it might be one of my all-time favorite musical styles. Which makes this new Putumayo release so exciting: “Bossa Nova Around the World” is just that. Read a little interview from Stacey Kent and … Continu > read more

Date Appropriate Songs ∞ Happy New Year

Published on 2011-02-03 07:24:54

Of the Chinese variety – year of the rabbit. Listen: Frightened Rabbit ∞ Swim Until You Can’t See Land > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-02-02 07:34:32

I lived by Lake Superior for four years in college. This video reminds me of those cold and snowy years. But the sunny music brings relief from the current cold and snowy winter we are having. Go see them on … Continue reading → > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Towards The Sun Party

Published on 2011-02-01 06:08:04

If you aren’t familiar with the Alexi Murdoch song “Orange Sky” you probably didn’t watch any TV or see an Indie films during the ‘00s. That song, with its “In your love, my salvation lies” lyrics fit perfecting in any … Continu > read more

Yep, I’m Jumping On The David Wax Museum Fanwagon

Published on 2011-01-31 06:08:38

“Born With A Broken Heart” from Anthem Multimedia on Vimeo. Seriously folks, this band from Bean Town is about to make the big time. Or at least they should. And I mean, come on, is there anything sexier than a … Continue reading &# > read more

Random Friday ∞ Is It Spring Yet?

Published on 2011-01-28 06:08:47

We’ve been hit with winter these last few weeks. In fact, I have seen more snow fall on top of snow fall in January than ever before in PA. It’s rare for the snow NOT to melt between snow storms. … Continue reading → > read more

It’s A Family Affair

Published on 2011-01-27 06:08:12

Everybody’s favorite folk family band (The Kopecky Family Band) will be releasing a split 7″ with everybody’s favorite Seattle twosome (Ivan & Alyosha). The vinyl was designed and packaged by the Family Band. You can get the 7& > read more

My Favorite Song This Week

Published on 2011-01-26 06:37:44

I love when bands release albums titled after a month and then release them in a different month. Example: Mark Berube & The Patriotic Few’s “June In Siberia” will be released in February. Marc and complain (Kristina Koropecki on cello, > read more

Party Tunes Tuesday ∞ Civil War Party

Published on 2011-01-25 06:08:25

There is a lot of blog buzz surrounding the male/female duo The Civil Wars. Their debut full length album – Barton Hollow – comes out February 1st. Listen to the title track below. Their names are John Paul White and Joy … Continue r > read more

Melodica Mondays

Published on 2011-01-24 06:08:34

What do you get when you throw two of my favorite things together (Brazil and melodicas)? You get Some Community. This batch of Brazilian buds dropped an EP last year called “RiñoRiño”. It’s good time fun music. Sure to make … C > read more

Random Friday ∞ Birthday Thoughts

Published on 2011-01-21 06:08:16

One can’t help but to reflect on their life during their birthday. I’ve been thinking a lot about me the past few days. Notably, the different “me”s there have been. Example: Folk-rocking college Duke or post-college double-shift-workin > read more

Math + Lulu = Fun Post

Published on 2011-01-20 06:08:26

Back in 2007, I did this funny math thing with movie posters: Can you figure out how old The Duke is today based on this simple mathematical equation?minusplusminusdivided bytimesplusminustimesminusplusminusplusminusequals? I guess I need to find a m > read more

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