M Vitamin

2012-01-02T20:10:00.000-08:00

COLDPLAY - THE HARDEST PART [download]

One of my favorite bands of all time. Playing one of my favorite classics by them. Coldplay has admitted they're not the best musicians, but I have yet to see a band that writes better songs.

2012-01-02T18:05:00.000-08:00

PRETTY LIGHTS - I KNOW THE TRUTH [download]

Recently released Pretty Lights track. Enjoy.

2011-12-31T12:47:00.000-08:00

BEST OF 2011

10. Redlight King - Something for the Pain
9. Drake - Take Care
8. The Foo Fighters - Wasting Light
7. The Black Keys - El Camino
6. Switchfoot - Vice Verses
5. Adele - 21
4. Jay-Z/Kanye West - Watch the Throne
3. Mutemath - Odd Soul
2. The Roots - Undun
1. AWOLNATION - Megalithic Symphony

2011-12-31T12:25:00.000-08:00

THE WEEKND - ECHOES OF SILENCE [download]

This is truly R&B at its finest. With one of the most exciting male R&B voices in ages, Abel Tesfaye is a master of mood and manages to transport us to the cramped, smoky nightclubs of his world in a way that is both intelligent and rewarding.~

2011-12-17T15:10:00.000-08:00

BLACK KEYS - RUN RIGHT BACK [download]

Somehow the Black Keys have manged to produce fresh and exciting material without changing their base formula. They're still the same rock/blues hybrid that we all know and love, with just a little more rock added in this time around.

2011-12-15T14:46:00.000-08:00

CHERUB - LOVE YOU RIGHT [download]

Hot as hell
Back on the road
With all the windows down
Lettin all the smoke and heat
Clear out
Take us back home
I want another round
So I can love you right

2011-12-10T14:47:00.000-08:00

AVICII - LEVELS [download]

When a song gives you chills.

2011-12-09T07:28:00.000-08:00

GHOST BEACH - FIRST TIME [download]

I just love me some soulful electronic pop.

2011-12-06T18:12:00.000-08:00

BEST NEW MUSIC TUESDAY OF THE YEAR!

The Roots

Chevelle

The Black Keys

Need I say more. I have listened to each album all the way through at least once so far. Every album is top notch from first song to the last. I honestly have never seen such a quality week of releases in a long time, if ever. Make sure to check out iTunes, Best Buy, wherever you buy music asap. It'll be worth it, I guarantee it.

Also,

NEW MIIKE SNOW [download]

2011-11-24T14:43:00.000-08:00

I'm just going to post songs as I go along and forget about writing descriptions. Enjoy!

TV/TV - Crazy Heart

(click file to download)

The Canvas Waiting - Darkness Into Day

Sweet Thing - Change of Seasons

2011-10-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

Catcall

If you're hankering for some warm, fuzzy, pop goodness, this artist will probably fill your need. Her debut LP, The Warmest Place, is due out in February.

Satellites by CATCALL

The Glitch Mob

Doing what they do best, making epic, glitchy mixes that stick in your head for weeks.

We Can Make The World Stop by The Glitch Mob

The Fray

New single just released a couple days ago. Snap judgement: Its pretty vanilla.. not much different from their previous stuff, and the sound could easily be confused for Coldplay's or a dozen other pop-rock bands out there today. That said, it has a strong melody and its catchy as hell. Probably will be hanging around Adult Contemporary radio for months to come.

Heartbeat by The Fray

2011-10-15T11:29:00.000-07:00

Germany Germany

These guys make deft use of synth and drum machine to create some truly beautiful songs.

Germany Germany - Take Me Home by KevinGonnet

Elevation

Soaring arena rock. The melodies are catchy and the lyrics are meaningful. This is a Christian group and some of their songs are a little too preachy for me, but a good portion of their songs aren't too blatant.

The Rhythm by ELEVATION

Childish Gambino

Another artist that I've featured before, Donald Glover just released a new single from his upcoming album. All I can say is, I can't stop playing it.

All The Shine by Childish Gambino

2011-10-09T15:52:00.001-07:00

The Slowdown

Formerly The Big Sleep, this band has a nice Kings of Leon vibe going on. Powerful drums and guitar riffs accompany great vocals. They also make awesome videos.

Capitol Cities

Uplifting, bright melodies with a vintage synth background. Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian blend their vocals to create a unique and enjoyable sound.

Safe and Sound - Capitol Cities by KineticMuzik

The Knux

Grungy surf rock coupled with smooth hip hop verses. Joy ride.

The Knux - Run (ft. Kid Cudi) by CherrytreeRecords

2011-10-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

Automatic Loveletter

The best way I can describe this band is as an earthy, rough Paramore. The lead singer sounds more like Janis Joplin than Haley Williams, but the same lyrical themes and melody styles carry over.

Automatic Loveletter - Heart Song by Emmaglooobine

Portugal. The Man

This band really knows how to craft a great tune. They combine good songwriting with a groovy style and come away with some pretty infectious stuff.

Portugal. The Man- Got It All (This Can't Be Living Now) by MMMusic

New Music This Week

2011-10-07T15:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry for being a bit late with this.

Worth checking out:

MUTEMATH - Odd Soul

This is what I'm talking about. When Mutemath wrote a song for a Twilight movie I thought it was the beginning of the end for this great band. They prove me wrong with this soulful, bluesy masterpiece. ★★★★★

Jack's Mannequin - People and Things

This album is much more polished and radio-ready than their previous works, which, in my opinion isn't a good thing. There are a few tracks that are surprisingly good, though. ★★★

Feist - Metals

Smooth and very laid back. Leslie Feist's voice is amazing. This and Mutemath's album make this a great week for the Blues. ★★★

Blood Pressure by MuteMath

2011-10-03T18:06:00.000-07:00

Nghbrs

Rough, grungy, soulful. Great band with some very unique tracks.

American Junk by NGHBRS

A&R

Awesome electro-pop with a distinct 80s vibe.

a&r - Prey on my Skin by a&r

New Music This Week

2011-09-28T17:41:00.000-07:00

Worth checking out:

Switchfoot - Vice Verses

A very solid release. The new music sounds just enough like old Switchfoot to please fans, yet it sounds fresh as well. A good mix of rough head-bangers and soft ballads. ★★★★ (out of 5)

blink-182 - Neighborhoods

The jury's still out. Some songs I like, others I don't. What I don't like overall is that this album sounds more like Angels & Airwaves w/Travis Barker and Mark Hoppus than it does blink-182. ★★★

Jason Derulo - Future History

Standard mainstream top-40. Doesn't stand out but its not bad either. Great for Friday nights. ★★

Vice verses by Switchfoot

2011-09-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

Redlight King just released their debut album, Something For the Pain, this past June. Not only is Neil Young and hip-hop blended together perfectly in their first single 'Old Man', but they reach the pinnacle of polished rock production right out of the gate. Mark Kasprzyk's singing and songwriting REALLY shine. [web]

Coldplay
Yeah, yeah, everyone knows a new album is coming out. Their second single, Paradise, took awhile, but it eventually grew on me. It probably won't be quite the single that Every Teardrop is a Waterfall was, but its still a solid tune. [web]

Coldplay - Paradise by dual_bign

2011-09-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

Culprit

This indie group hits the nail on the head when it comes to catchy, organic rock. Its infectious and rough. [web]

Siren by Culprit Music

Gold Fields

This band has been featured on this blog in the past, and they just released a new EP, self-titled, last Fri. They have continued to show greatness, if not surpassing their past level of quality. Definitely worth a check. [web]

Moves by Gold Fields

Bombay Bicycle Club

These guys have just recently come out with their third studio album, A Different Kind of Fix. If sharp, catchy, indie pop is you thing, definitely check this band out. [web]

Bombay Bicycle Club - Shuffle by Bombay Bicycle Club

2011-09-21T17:45:00.000-07:00

ANR [Awesome New Republic]

Who doesn't like musical casserole? These guys combine just about a hundred different sounds and it somehow comes out sounding good... Gotta hand it to them. [web]

ANR - It's Around You by 10Kislands

The Cab

This band plays their music with a ton of soul, enough to put them head and shoulders above most of the other boy bands that share their genre. [web]

The Cab - Bad by INgroovesmarketing

Childish Gambino

Brand new song from this very talented dude. He's definitely going places. His debut album, Camp, is scheduled for release Nov. 15. [web]

Bonfire by Childish Gambino

Blink-182

2011-09-04T16:52:00.001-07:00

While on the topic of 90s Alt Rock, can't forget to bring up Blink-182's upcoming album, Neighborhoods, available 9/27. Below is the first single.

Sublime

2011-09-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

Of all the new releases this year from 90s Alt Rock bands (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bush, Beastie Boys, to name a few), none got me as excited as Sublime's effort with new front-man Rome Ramirez.

Sublime With Rome by Fueled By Ramen

Grouplove

2011-08-31T14:53:00.000-07:00

This new band is coming out with their exceptional debut album this September.

Grouplove - Colours by Atlantic Records UK

Bush

2011-08-30T19:10:00.001-07:00

They're back! The Sea of Memories is set to be released in September. Below is their new single.

Bush - The Sound Of Winter by eOne Music

Holy Ghost!

2011-05-29T15:15:00.001-07:00

No, this isn't an 80s band. There are some very strong retro vibes coming from Holy Ghost!, though.

Joan as Police Woman

2011-05-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

Here's another great jazz/rock band. Joan as Police Woman has some great grooves.

Joan As Police Woman - The Magic by PIASBELGIUM

Brasstronaut

2011-05-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Why this band isn't known by more people is beyond me. These guys know how to create smooth jazz played to perfection.

Saints of Valory

2011-05-24T18:40:00.001-07:00

Frequently likened to both Coldplay and Kings of Leon, this band has a lot to offer. [web]

Saints of Valory - Sweet Disarray by MarkPetro

Charlie Simpson

2011-05-24T18:32:00.000-07:00

Great voice, great musical style. If you like Mumford & Sons, you'll probably like this guy.

Team Me

2011-05-17T19:21:00.000-07:00

Team Me is onto something special. Every song this Norwegian sextet puts out is so full of vibration and energy that its hard resist getting caught up in the mood. Check out the video to see how freaky and spastic this band really is. [web]

Chet Faker

2011-05-17T19:08:00.000-07:00

As someone who doesn't like the Backstreet Boys, a remix of one of their songs would have to be pretty damn good to make me listen to it. Chet Faker's remix of No Diggity, a BB tune from the mid-90s, adds so much to the original that its hard to even compare the two. So smooth, so sweet, props to this guy.

CHET FAKER - NO DIGGITY, 80 by nobodywantstofuckyou

My Morning Jacket

2011-05-16T19:28:00.001-07:00

My Morning Jacket has been around for awhile, and they really know how to craft some great bluesy rock. Their latest single, Holding on to Black Metal, is definitely worth a listen.

Scattered Trees

2011-05-15T16:24:00.000-07:00

Skillfully blended rock and electronic. This band has great potential. Their debut album, Sympathy, was just released this April. [web]

Holiday Parade

2011-05-15T16:12:00.000-07:00

This band is solidly in the pop-rock category, with maybe a little punk thrown in. They have a very mature sound which they use to perfectly execute catchy melodies one after another. [web]

False Alarms by rkohli

AWOLNATION

2011-05-10T18:46:00.000-07:00

This band really doesn't have a clearly defined genre. They have influences from a wide spectrum of sounds. Grunge, electronic, trance, you name it . No matter what you want to call them, though, AWOLNATION produces some great music. [web]

Megalithic Symphony by AWOLNATION

Benjamin Francis Leftwich

2011-05-09T19:01:00.000-07:00

Simply beautiful folk rock. Benjamin Francis Leftwich doesn't use any gimmicks or smoke and mirrors to make his songs sound good. He lets the lyrics and melody speak for themselves. [web]

Augustana

2011-05-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

Augustana recently released their third studio album, and it sounds great. While it doesn't sound anything like their debut album, it easily stands on its own legs as a quality piece of work.

Augustana - Steal Your Heart by MMMusic

Redlight King

2011-05-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

Tasteful rap laid over some awesome alt. rock. To be honest, you really can't go wrong when you sample Neil Young, either. [web]

Brother

2011-04-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

This band channels soulful old-time rock n roll with a modern take. The result is this very catchy song. If you liked early Oasis, you'll definitely like this.

Halos

2011-04-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Not only are these guys exceptional musicians, but the stunning video for their single, Amalgam, deserves an Oscar. [web]

Gold Fields

2011-04-28T14:35:00.000-07:00

I've posted about this band before, but I seriously can't get enough of them. Just an all around great sound. [web]

Demos (2010) by Gold Fields

Strange Talk

2011-04-27T15:36:00.000-07:00

Mix some techno disco, some synth, some rock, and some killer vocals all together and you get Strange Talk's latest single, Climbing Walls. This band is definitely worth checking out. [web]

Strange Talk - Climbing Walls by neongoldrecords

B I G S L E E P

2011-04-27T15:14:00.000-07:00

From listening to just one song, B I G S L E E P draws you in and doesn't let go. One of the catchiest melodies of the year, Ghosts is the perfect summer song. [web]

Walk the Moon

2011-04-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

This band takes a little ambiance and a little smooth indie rock and really creates something great to listen to. These songs are very catchy.

I Want! I Want! by Walk The Moon

Novosti

2011-04-11T17:29:00.001-07:00

Deep lyrics with rich melodies is always a good combination. Novosti has a very serious sound that is great for driving or studying. Their latest music video is top notch as well.

New Frontiers

2011-04-03T16:08:00.001-07:00

Although this band is no longer together, they really knew how to make great music. They took each song and melody and really crafted some masterpieces.

Sweet Thing

2011-04-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

Vibrant and energetic with amazing vocals, Sweet Thing really delivers. They infuse their pop-rock songs with an enthusiasm that is contagious. This band from Canada is definitely worth a listen. [web]

Sweet Thing - Change Of Seasons by alienhits

Childish Gambino

2011-03-18T23:01:00.001-07:00

Mostly I've recommended rock artists, but if you enjoy rap as much as I do, then you need to check out Childish Gambino. Not only is he an awesome musical artist, but he's also an actor on the hit show Community, and was a writer for 30 Rock.

Childish Gambino EP by yourcool

TV On The Radio

2011-03-18T18:11:00.000-07:00

This band is very versatile. They sample several different styles and sound great performing them all. Their latest album, 'Nine Types of Light', is due out on April 12th. [web]

TV On The Radio - Will Do by TheTop22

The Airborne Toxic Event

2011-03-16T15:33:00.000-07:00

If you enjoy theatrical, layered, and deep music, then The Airborne Toxic Event is for you. April 26th (US)/ April 25th (Europe) 2011 are the release dates of their second album. [web]

The Airborne Toxic Event - Numb by morrisday

Brooke Annibale

2011-03-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

This beautiful singer/songwriter has a voice that is simply amazing. As you listen to her voice coupled with the flowing melodies, you can't help but realize that this singer is destined for something big. Her newest album is set to release this Tuesday 3/15.

Silence Worth Breaking - "First Listen" by brookeannibale

Parachute

2011-03-12T12:28:00.001-08:00

This band crafts some great soulful rock songs. The melodies are catchy as hell and the lyrics are refreshingly down to earth. Their latest album is set for release in April.

Parachute - Something To Believe In (Jeremiah) by Autotune

Ocean Is Theory

2011-03-01T17:11:00.000-08:00

Well done pop-punk. Not very groundbreaking, but Ocean Is Theory seems to know what they are doing, and they sound good doing it.

More than conquerors - Ocean Is Theory by Vintage One Day

Bag Raiders

2011-02-26T09:06:00.000-08:00

Electro pop done right. The Bag Raiders are able to produce a general feeling of euphoria that's guaranteed to get any party or dance floor moving. Their songs carry a punch and energy that's contagious.

Bag Raiders-Sunlight (Feat Dan Black) by Check The Availability

The Hold Steady

2011-02-23T16:12:00.001-08:00

This band has a great formula. Take a country-style approach and sing about the city and their rock n' roll lifestyles. Their laid back attitude is very appealing.

The Hold Steady - The Sweet Part Of The City by VagrantRecords

Greg Laswell

2011-02-21T15:31:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite singer-songwriters here who always and consistently brings the best of his genre to the table. Songs that are complicated, yet feel simple in a way that leaves the listener content and relaxed.

Lie To Me - by Greg Laswell by Vanguard Records

The Gallery

2011-02-19T14:38:00.000-08:00

Up and coming rock band brimming with potential. Their music is very enjoyable. They've recently been entered in a contest in which the band with the most votes gets published on the cover of Rolling Stone. If you like their music vote for them here.

Ballroom of Broken Hearts -The Gallery by user4607889

The Last Royals

2011-02-16T16:13:00.001-08:00

Looking for slick and catchy rock n' roll? The Last Royals is a smart band that knows how to craft great music. The styling is very loose and laid back and the lyrics are gritty and clever. Their newest EP is available for free at NoiseTrade.

Backseat Lovers by TheLastRoyals

Metronomy

2011-02-13T16:29:00.001-08:00

This'll put you into a relaxed state very quickly. Metronomy shows impressive restraint on their songs while playing around with some killer grooves. The band recently released the first single from their upcoming third album.

Metronomy - She Wants by The Recommender

Gotye

2011-02-11T11:18:00.000-08:00

This solo artist has put out some very well produced songs. Even if the lyrics are a little preachy, the melody is vibrant, catchy, and up-beat. His latest single takes some 80s influences and applies a modern spin.

Eyes Wide Open by Gotye

The Strokes

2011-02-09T20:11:00.000-08:00

This is more news than a recommendation, but The Strokes have just released their first single in 4 years and it is very good. ~~It will be up on the band's website to download for free for 48 hours.~~

The Strokes - Under Cover Of Darkness by We Are S.M.E Blog

The Radio Dept.

2011-02-08T14:54:00.000-08:00

The Radio Dept. is a very versatile band. While the core of their sound, a warm electronic fuzz and wistful vocals, remains the same, they are able to swing the overall sound of their music in many different directions. Some songs are catchy and upbeat while others are methodical. Every song is good in its own way.

The Radio Dept - Heaven's On Fire by ganaz

The Naked and Famous

2011-02-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

Carefree and rebellious pop songs are what this band does best. Pumping beats, grinding synth, and distorted guitars all combine with complicated melodies and interesting lyrics to make one of the best indie pop albums I've heard in awhile. Its all very layered and manufactured, but in a good way.

The Naked and Famous - All Of This by fx2music

Peter Bjorn and John

2011-02-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

Another band that makes great pop songs with an indie edge. Their latest single not only has generous cow bell, but also a chorus that is guaranteed to get stuck in your head after a few listens.

Peter Bjorn and John - Second Chance by Brian Gaffey

Safetysuit

2011-02-01T16:05:00.000-08:00

Safetysuit is the definition of arena rock. Dueling guitars echo and jam in the background as the lead singer's vocals spiral along with the melody. The music isn't really groundbreaking, but it doesn't have to be when its so enjoyable.

Something I Said by Safetysuit

Foster The People

2011-01-30T10:11:00.000-08:00

Smooth as a cold beer on a summer day, Foster The People delivers some of the catchiest tunes I've heard in awhile. Mixing an indie sound with a dancy pop beat works wonders for this band.

FTP - Helena Beat by WILD TONIC

Andrew Belle

2011-01-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

Andrew Belle's music just seems so effortless. The melodies, instruments, and vocals all seem to mesh perfectly and seamlessly. Andrew Belle's vocals are not only pitch perfect but are also organic in a way that flows with the music. And the southern influences in these pop songs just add to the appeal.

The Ladder by Andrew Belle

Minus the Bear

2011-01-25T18:03:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for complex, engaging, and catchy music, you're in luck. This band delivers an album that is heavy, yet light; balanced, yet chaotic; rock and electronic, all at the same time. The production is very well done, as well. If anything, there's too much production. Yet it certainly doesn't dampen the quality of music in any way.

My Time by Minus the Bear

Foals

2011-01-23T09:23:00.000-08:00

It might take a couple listens to begin to realize the genius of this band, but once it happens, there's no looking back. This rock band is purely original from start to finish.

Foals - Miami by Electric Audio

The Canvas Waiting

2011-01-21T14:25:00.000-08:00

Very emotional and hard-hitting alt rock. It seems each and every song from The Canvas Waiting is good in one way or another. The lyrics aren't exactly original, but they feel genuine.

Ghosts by thecanvaswaiting

Meg & Dia

2011-01-19T15:10:00.000-08:00

A rock band fronted by two very talented sisters. Soulful lyrics and melodies dominate their tracks.

Dreams Like Oceans by Meg & Dia

Lovedrug

2011-01-17T15:14:00.000-08:00

Haunting rock with amazing vocals and excellent musicianship. This band is hugely underrated.

Southern Knell by Lovedrug

Imagine Dragons

2011-01-14T19:28:00.000-08:00

Don't let the name fool you. These guys really know how to craft inventive and catchy pop-rock songs.

Amsterdam by Imagine Dragons

Paper Route

2011-01-12T16:00:00.000-08:00

Energetic, original, and heartfelt, this band is truly enjoyable. They also have a new album slated for 2011.

Paper Route - Carousel by samhdot

Noah and the Whale

2011-01-10T17:07:00.000-08:00

Great indie rock verging on corny sounding. But its still classic mood-lifting music. Check them out.

Noah And The Whale - L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N by ListenBeforeYouBuy

Kyte

2011-01-09T13:11:00.000-08:00

Think Owl City with serious lyrics and soaring choruses. The songs really take you somewhere else. [Myspace]

Kyte - Boundaries by erasedtapes

Courrier

2011-01-07T14:59:00.000-08:00

I just discovered this band and love them. Soft for the most part, and very melody driven. Streaming of their new album is available here ~~1/18~~ now.

Wildfire by Courrier

Civil Twilight

2011-01-05T16:25:00.000-08:00

At times atmospheric, at times grungy, this band is one of the best up-and-coming rock bands out there. [Myspace]

Next To Me by CivilTwilight

Local Natives

2011-01-02T06:32:00.000-08:00

A great indie rock band. Very infectious and catchy. How can you go wrong with 3 lead singers?

Wide Eyes by Local Natives

Wolf Gang

2010-12-31T04:09:00.000-08:00

I'm really liking this band. When I think about it, they have a lot of the same elements that made me like Coldplay when they first came out with 'Parachutes'. The singing is original, the songwriting is excellent, and the music is executed very well.

Wolf Gang - Lions In Cages by The Clink

Polock

2010-12-29T15:38:00.000-08:00

Clever song writing and catchy hooks with a mellow indie vibe. Good study music.

Myspace

Frightened Rabbit

2010-12-28T05:13:00.000-08:00

Modern rock with a folksy vibe. I won't lie, I can't get enough of this lead singer.

Myspace

Stars of Track and Field

2010-12-26T08:09:00.000-08:00

Smooth and polished rock and roll. An all around good listen.

End of All Time - play

Aloe Blacc

2010-12-21T19:41:00.000-08:00

If you're in the mood for some smooth bluesy goodness, this is the artist for you.

I Need A Dollar - play

Oh Land

2010-12-19T15:46:00.000-08:00

Beautiful vocals and electronic elements make this female pop singer worth listening to.

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/ohlandmusic

Gold Fields

2010-12-19T15:31:00.000-08:00

Some seriously catchy pop rock. Their first single, Treehouse, was recorded in a bedroom.

Treehouse by Gold Fields