Things that make me happy... Steve Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers

Things that make me happy... Steve Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers

What do you know about bluegrass music? Yes... that music. With the bango and the fiddle.

If your answer is nothing or not enough... it's time you challenge yourself to step out of your musical comfort zone. The Steep Canyon Rangers is a North Carolina based bluegrass band that is currently on tour with Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. Of course Steve Martin is the headline and star of this tour, but he will be the first to admit that The Steep Canyon Rangers is fuel that makes this a truly entertaining show for die hard bluegrass fans or novices (like me) alike. An added treat is the talented and delightful Edie Brickell who happens to be touring with the group.

Edie Brickell and Steve Martin joined up to produce an 2013 album called "Love has Come for You" and they featured a few songs from that album.  Steve Martin's comic genius is featured throughout the performance and even makes an appearance in a song or two (Athiest Ain't Got No Songs.)

The core band features the mandolin, base, fiddler, and a pair of banjos (one expertly wielded by Steve Martin). They are joined by an electric guitar and a percussionist on many of the songs.  The Steep Canyon Rangers are excellent musicians that can play, sing, and plain ole jam with the best of them.  This is excellent evening of music filled with laughter, toe tapping beats, and great story telling by Brickell.

Take a leap and check out some bluegrass this summer at one of the tour stops. Or grab one of Steve Martin's, The Steep Cannon Rangers', or Edie Brickell's albums and grab a sweet tea, a rocking chair and enjoy the music.

One more thing... Steve Martin has and continues to trend at number one on Amazon Bluegrass Best Seller List. Who knew?

Athiest Ain't have No Songs

Pros
1. Steve Martin is funny! Period. But he also a great muscian. That two shows for one.
2. The Steep Canyon Rangers is the best (and only) bluegrass band I've every seen live.
3. Edie Brickel - Great storyteller, so adorable, and still is a talented singer.

Cons
1. Anyone new the bluegrass may have to get over themselves and open their minds to great music no matter the guise.
2. A lot of bluegrass is instrumental... but even without the lyrics each song tells a story.


Bluegrass? I say yes. Put it on the playlist. That's what I'm listening to this month.

S.F. Guru

Things that makes me happy... Sting

Things that make me happy... Sting

There are a handful of celebrities that are known by a single name.  Sting, the former member of the English rock band The Police, is one of the rare musical talents that earned his must deserved recognition.  The "Back to Bass" tour is one of the best tickets available this summer, as Sting tours with his five piece band and performs many of his classic hits.

Recently seen at the Borgata in Atlantic City, Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, aka Sting, is still rocking and commanding the stage with his signature bass.  At 61 years old he is as fit as a man 20 years his junior and still has that distinctive voice that resulted in millions of albums sold and 11 music awards.

Check out some of his classics and a few new songs along with a pretty could documentary on him.

Back to Bass tour

Sting Videos

Desert Rose

Fragile

Shape of my heart

Every Breath you take

A good Sting Documentary

Sting is still rocking at 60+ ... check him out and enjoy!!

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... The Heist by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

Things that make me happy... The Heist by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

"Just when you think you know hip hop it surprises you and reminds you why you fell in love with it in the first place." - Sydney Shaw, Brown Sugar

Nuff said!!

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Album the Heist was released in August 2012 as a relative unknown but has built momentum month after month ever since. After appearances on Saturday Night Live, a concert tour, and much word a mouth this album is getting lots of recognition.

The Heist is a throwback hip hop album with strong lyrically content. Macklemore flow is so smooth and enjoyable that you might miss the message in many of his song. Some of his songs addresses gay rights, substance abuse, and trying to make it the music industry. But what makes this album stand out is the music. Although the album is straight hip hop he infuses R&B, country, and rock. You can enjoy playing the entire album through and get a different sound each track.

Another great characteristic of the album is the number of collaborations used throughout the album. Each add something different to the Album.

Album Song list

Ten Thousand Hours - Way to introduce "The Heist"
Can't Hold Us - Album's first big hit. Catchy tune and getting lots of airplay. Might be one of the songs of the summer.
Thrift Shop - The next hit. Fun another great hook... Best line of year "This is F@cking Awesome"
Thin Line -
Same Love - Political commentary at its best... on a great dope melody.
Make The Money- Soooo many ill rhymes! "Uncle Sam is
Neon Cathedral - Slowdown with the R&B feel but don't expect a let up on the verses.
BomBom - Why not a instrumental track... and its still hip hop. Genius.
White Walls - This could be remix potential dance hit.
Jimmy lovine - Another future hit... "...rather be a starving artist than succeed at getting f@cked!"
Wings - Another nice track. Good spin class "climb track"
A Wake - An indy feel. Another future hit.
Gold - A bit weak but might still be a pop hit. High school kids might love this one.
Starting Over - One of my favorites on the album. Kinda like therapy... Enimen style.
Cowboy Boots - Really?!? And its fun a song. Too funny!
Castle - Ok track
My Oh My - Nice tribute track...
Victory Lap - Shout out to Seattle. Every town needs an anthem.

Thrift Shop

Same Love

Can't Hold Us

My Oh My

NPR Tiny Desk Music Series (soo good) - Same Love and others...

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis on SNL - Thrift Shop

On Letterman - Can't Hold Us

Pros
1. One of the best hip hop albums in years.
2. Macklemore flow is wicked and he's got something to say...
3. The music on this album can keep you listening for hours. This might be a classic in the making.

Cons
1. There are only 18 tracks on the deluxe edition. And we want more.

Fun album for the summer...

SF Guru

Things that make me happy... Mumford and Sons - Babel

Things that make me happy... Mumford and Sons - Babel

The 2013 Grammy Award for Album of the Year goes to Mumford and Sons, Babel. Mumford and Sons (M&S) is a English Alternative Rock band (with a folk music sound) that have risen to the top of the British and American pop charts with their bluegrass alternative rock sound.  Their most recent album Babel is one of the best of 2012 and definitely worth a listen for anyone looking for a new group to discover.

There are 12 tracks on Babel with several more hits to come on this album beyond "I Will Wait."

1. Babel - Love the hard driving beat on this title track.
2. Whispers in the Dark - Ok song.
3. I Will Wait - Super mega hit... an instant classic.
4. Holland Road - Great lyrics on this track.
5. Ghost that we Knew - Soft ballad
6. Lover of the Light - Another favorite song on this album.
7. Lovers' Eyes - This could be a sleeper hit.
8. Reminder - Another favorite soulful ballad.
9. Hopeless Wanderer - This has classic folk feel but there is an awesome Rock change up.
10. Broken Crown
11. Below my Feet
12. Not with Haste - This song takes it time... and builds and builds. love the music arc. Beautiful restraint!

M&S is not a new to many people and the Babel album has been out for several months now, but after their somewhat unexpected win at the Grammy's they deserve a closer look at the album. Once you take the time to sample you will quickly realize they are definitely worthy of becoming one of your new favorite groups to listen to in the car (and anywhere else really). 2012 might have been the year of alternative rock with folk rock sound. Although bands like the Dave Matthews Band have been bring this type of sound to fans for years, there are several musicians that have moved this pop folk sound to the top of the pop charts and major airplay on radio.  Bon Iver, Lumineers, Fun, Florence + the Machine and even American Idol winner Phillip Phillips (Check out the hit Home) are just a few of the acts that have garnered lots of attention this year.  All are worthy of checking out actually, but M&S combines interesting use of bluegrass instruments with lyrics from works of literature including Homer, Plato, and yes even Shakespeare. Wanna have some fun? Try matching lyrics in their songs to the literary author.

The band consist of Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett, Winston Marshall, Ted Dwayne all are talented musicians that play several instruments. It is refreshing to hear something that isn't necessary new, but refreshing a music that has been a part of American history. Mumford & Sons is leading the charge and bringing new fans to a music that stimulates the mind while it keeps your feet tapping.  It sample some of their earlier music check out 2009 Sigh no More.

I Will Wait

The Cave

 Lover of light

Below my Feet (SNL performance)

Live from Red Rock (now showing on Showtime on Demand)

Pros
1. Great music with a fun band with great instruments.
2. The lyrics sneak up on you. Very smart and it brings a lot to the music.
3. You got to love good old fashion knee slapping music.

Cons
1. Folk rock is everyone's cup of tea but if you want to explore this is a good place to start.
2. Many of the melodies may seem very similar at first glance, but this is Rock so you want to lower your expectation. Kinda of like reggae, the same beat can bring you so many variations with superior lyrics and delivery.

Mumford and Sons have the Gentleman of the Road tour documentary showing on Showtime on Demand this February if you want to check out the awesome live performance for yourself. The film features several performances from the tour at Red Rock in Colorado in the summer of 2012.

Music should bring you joy. Explore more and find out what you have been missing.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Esperanza Spaulding

Things that make me happy... Esperanza Spaulding

She composes, she plays, she sings, and she scats... my newest musical crush has to be Jazz performer Esperanza Spaulding.

Now I didn't grow up in any of Jazz's legendary periods like Big Band, Bebop, or Avant Garde, but I've been a fan of Jazz for the past 20 years (yes... I've got the achy bones to prove it.) But the good news is that Jazz has continued to evolve. Today its infused in the music of hip hop and soul artists like Q-tip, Outkast, Eryka Badu, and Jill Scott. But Spaulding is a new voice that updates the classic sounds of pure Jazz with a contemporary spin that is bring new fans to this American musical art form. Esperanza's music contains many influences. Most notably -- the music of Brazil, which is prominently featured  on her 2009 self titled album.

New Music Alert:: Radio Music Society
So much happening on this album... Its part Jazz, part Pop, all Esperanza!!
1. Radio Song - The theme song of the album. Fun beat and playful to sing along. "if like to.. Because you need toooo..."
2. Cinnamon Tree - Classic Jazz ballet... One of my favorites.
3. Crowned & Kissed - R&B infused Jazz. Tribute to those everyday "kings and queens"
4. Land Of the Free -
5. Black Gold - Great song... More classic R&B sounds
6. I Can't Help it - Back on the Jazz sound...
7. Hold On Me
8. Vague Suspicions
9. Endangered Species
10. Let Her
11. City of Roses
12. Smile Like That - More vocals on some great instrumentals

The 28 years old bassist got her first major award under her belt -- the 2011 Grammy for best new artist. A first for a jazz musician. But at the pace she's going. It won't be the last. And as Jazz finds a new generation of fans, Esperanza Spaulding will be leading the new Jazz revolution.

Black Gold...

At the White House... Overjoyed!!! She rocks this performance.

Crowned and Kissed Video

Little Fly Video

Pros
1. Great musical talent. Her fresh vocals aren't even her best talent.
2. Jazz music is still classy
3. R&B and Jazz fans will find a song to like

Cons
1. Its Jazz... not everyone's cup of tea
2. A few songs are inspiring. But no can get it right all the time.


SF. Guru

Things that make me happy... Electric Zoo Festival

Things that make me happy... Electric Zoo Festival

There are so many things to do in NYC on Labor Day weekend, US Open, West Indian Labor Day Parade on Eastern Parkway, and for those able and ready.... the Electric Zoo Festival.

I've done all sorts of music festivals in my life, but Electric Zoo (aka the Zoo) is definitely one of the most unique events for those that want to sweat and dance to the beats of Electronica under open sky.

The Electric Zoo Festival is a three day event on Randall island that feature top dance music djs from around the world. This year featured David Guetta, Pretty Lights, Axwell, Benny Benassi, and the international sensation Tiesto. Watching 90k plus people sweating it out with the NYC skyline in the background is one of the best ways to spend a long weekend. This year Tiesto was the feature DJ on the main stage on Sunday and night and rocked the crowd to many of his favorites.

Tiesto

The best parts of this year show had to be the 4 venues with live music and the energy of the crowd. No drama... just people have fun. All ages, all types moving to the same beat... almost.

David Guetta Opening Night

Tiesto Closing Night

Skrillex - Promises

Some random video from the Zoo...

Pros
1. Great Music - and the best open air music system I've ever heard.
2. Fun venue - Randall Island
3. Fun people watching and the best outfits

Cons
1. Better be ready for a crowd... When the music is pumping the crowd is jamming.
2. Be ready to sweat... It's hard not to dance to this music.... and yes dubstep rocks!!

So for anyone around next Labor day weekend and want to check out something different... Check out NY other famous Zoo... on Randall Island.

SF Guru

Things that make me happy... Lady Antebellum

Things that make me happy... Lady Antebellum Tour

I don't know much about country music but this group is worth checking out. Some may say they are more of pop country but after checking out their "Own the Night" tour I have to say I might have put this country group at the top of my playlist.

The group is made up of lead singers Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley, and Dave Haywood. All are from Nashville TN with family ties to the country music scene. The produce three studio albums to date, Lady Antebellum, Need You Now, Own the Night. All were platinum albums and garnered the group several awards including top honors at the Grammys, Country Music Awards, and the fan favorites at Billboard Music awards.

Just a Kiss

We Own the Night

Need you know

Dancing Away with my Heart - Live

Pros
1. This group is as talented as I've ever seen.
2. Hillary Scott is as hot as she is talented... but sorry guys she's taken (drummer's was a smart man)
3. Pop country got a little something for everyone, but don't get it twisted there soul in this music.

Cons
1. Country fans... let's say they like to drink a bit... all day.
2. Country concerts bring a out a large crowd. Be prepared for a few lines. But everyone is pretty friendly.

If you have never checked out a country music show... this should be your first. Great musicians, amazing singers, and the show rocks with amazing energy. Lady A is one of the best tours going right now... and their albums is pretty awesome too.

SF Guru

Things that make me happy...Usam Riaz & Preston Reed playing guitar

21 year old guitar genius... truly jawdropping!!

Things that make me happy... Usam Riaz and Prestin Reed playing guitar Every so often you see something new that leaves in awe. I've never seen guitar playiing like this and for true music lovers I offer this treat I found courtesy of TED talks...

http://on.ted.com/Usman


Video - Firefly

  SF Guru

Things that make me happy... Taylor Hicks

Things that make me happy... Taylor Hicks (yes that Taylor Hicks, the American Idol Season 5 winner)

Season 5 was the first season of American Idol that I actually watched from beginning to end and Taylor Hicks was obviously the best performer on the show. This silver hair 28 year old with the crazy dance steps and the rich soulful voice showed that American Idol had room for a true artist and not just conventional pop stars. And I have been watching ever since (Season 5 is still my favorite season.) Eight years later, I happened to get the chance to see him perform live in small town in CT. And I think I am just became an card carrying member of his random group of fans called the "Soul Patrol."

America definitely got it right voting him the winner over Katherine McPhee (star of Fox's Smash TV show). Taylor Hicks' live show is one of the best around for fans of "Soul" musical and enjoy all of the variety it can offer.  Not only can he really sing (he has a awesome voice) but his blue-eye soulfulness comes out in ever song. He performs no less than 5 different musical styles in his shows, from contemporary R&B to Roadhouse music, to blues, and yes he does some country too. His energy on stage is infectious and the band he is currently touring with, Jamie McClean band, feeds of that energy. I found myself loving many of his songs and grabbing one of his album online afterwards... Yes its on my playlist this month.

Taylor Hicks has produce three albums after his American Idol win, self titled "Taylor Hicks", "Early Works", and "The Distance." Some compare him to Mike McDonald of the Doobie Brothers fame. Although they both have distinctive voices, and silver hair, Taylor Hicks is in his own category. He is one of several musician that has carved out a niche for classic music for today contemporary adult.  The youngsters don't know about this type of music. Not yet anyways... but they will learn eventually.

35 years old Hicks is currently touring the country, mostly in smaller venues and has an album due out this year. So watch out for it if you like the music. And the Jamie McClean band is a pretty awesome blues band that is opening for him too. He makes his home in Nashville and plays at local venues a lot and has a restaurant and music venue in Birmingham called ORE Drink and Dine where is known to perform quite a bit.

A couple live clips from his recent tour.

What's Right is Right Video

Taylor Hicks dancing Montage...

Why Can't we Live Together

Pros:
1, Hicks is a great performer. His energy and great soulful voice is a rare combination. He also has some musical talents and jumps around stage playing a bunch of instruments.
2. Great musical variety... R&B, Blues, Rock, and some Country. All are good and natural for Hicks. Not many artist can do that.
3. Engages the audience and has a quick wit.
4. Seven Mile Breakdown is a fun song... Why Can't we Live Together another goodie

Cons
1. Hicks antics may annoy some stuffy type people. He jumps around stage and has a funny dance style...
2. Hicks is all about the music, no tricks on stage. Its an all male band of real good musician.

If you want to see a great live performance with great musicians and better music check out a Taylor Hicks concert in a town near you.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Marley the Movie

Things that make me happy... Marley the Movie (2012)

"Marley", the new movie just released this month, is a powerful documentary about the musical legend Bob Marley. The director, Kevin MacDonald, gives his master stroke to tell the story of Robert Nesta Marley, reggae music legend and founding father. Featuring many of the people closest to him (Bunny Wailer, Rita Marley, Ziggy, and many others) they talk about the man and the music he created.  This documentary is not only for fans, but for people that want to learn about one of the most influential artist of the past 100 years.  The film feature concert footage, alternate versions of his classic hits, and some of his less popular stuff. You can feel the evolution of his music, political views, and activism.

The good news is that you can view this movie in theater (limited release in major cities) and on demand video now. It is playing on most cable systems and several online streaming video sources. This simultaneous release could be a sign of the future as the time between theater release and direct to home is shrinking every year.  Only warning... Keep your window open. You could get high just from watching the movie. But then its Bob... what would you expect. lol.

 Bob Marley died on May 11 1981 from cancer.  But until the very end, although his body was failing him his spirit was never broken. One Love...

Movie Trailer

Clip from the movie.

Pros

1. Great director and great documentary about the legend. Accurate portrayal of Marley.

2. Awesome concert footage. Damn. Marley was an awesome performing.

3. The music and the many ways it united and moved people.

Cons

1. Wish they had more interviews of Marley himself. 

2. Could have featured more concerts footage.

For an interesting article on Bunny Wailer... Bob Marley's mentor and original band member. Goto my previous blog

 Bunny Wailer GQ Article

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Dar Williams, Singer-Songwriter

Things that make me happy... Dar Williams, Singer-Songwriter

Dar Williams is a pop folk, singer-songwriter that is noted as one of the best by the New Yorker and to many music fans. Seeing Dar Williams is must for any true live folk music fan. She is a funny and witty entertainer and her song intros are both affectionately personal and entertaining. She is native of the NYC area and play live shows and small local spots when not on tour.

Although born Dorothy, Dar picked up her name from as a child from her family while growing up in a Suburban New York city. Her music is definitely newer version of 70s folk rock music in the spirit of Joan Baez, Shawn Colvin, and Ani DiFranco. A true artist that has been know to discover songs in her dreams. Dar has been very prolific with 20+ year career with over 12 albums. With the explosion of singer song writer types of the past 10 years, Dar Williams continues to produce music and generate a strong cult following at her shows. Her next album is "In the Times of Gods' is due out in April 2012.

The Christians and Pagans (live)

As cool as I can

It's all right

The Christian and the Pagan (video)

Pros
1. Lots of cool tunes... folksy and witty (Favorite song The Christian and the Pagan
2. She is a great entertainer. gotta love a woman that can make you laugh between hippy chick songs (that's a compliment)
3. Next album about greek mythology and stuff... will be interesting to say the least!

Cons
1. If Lady Gaga has "little monsters", Dar Williams may have "little swingers"... Go see her show and tell me what you think... just saying. lol.

If you are looking for a good show and really good pop folk music check out of one of Dar Williams. Go ahead... check out something different and off the charts (literally and figuratively.)

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Whitney Houston - The Voice

Things that make me happy... Whitney Houston - The Voice

Saturday Feb 11 2012, 48 years old Whitney Houston,  passed away after making her mark as one of the greatest singers of any generation.  Words cannot begin to describe the mark she made on music. The number one hits. The mega concerts. The acting, singing, and now producing career. She has influenced many of the top artist alive today and will continue to influence many more through her music for years to come.

The best way to remember Whitney is through her music. Here are a few of top videos and some classic interviews.

The mega hit I will always love you.

My personal favorite with a sweet remix... Its not all right, but its okay

I wanna dance with somebody... Her big hair days...

My love is your love...

How will I know... A classic from 1985.

The Greatest Love of All

.... One of my favorites. Whitney and Stevie Wonder Interview on Arsenio Hall Show

The greatest singing of the National Athem ever...

Another early Interview. "I know God has blessed me with voice... I know he has blessed me with talent" -Whitney

Some funny Whitney Moments

Count on me (w. CeCe Winans)

SF. Guru

What was your favorite Whitney Houston song?

Things that make me happy today... Amy Winehouse - Lioness: Hidden Treasures

Things that make me happy today... Amy Winehouse - Lioness: Hidden Treasures

Amy Winehouse was 27 years old when she passed on July 23rd 2011.  To be fully honest, I did not know Amy Winehouse music well. I liked her Back to Black album and loved the runaway hit Rehab, but I can't say she was on the top of my playlist much.  I think I might have been turned off by her public struggles with drugs and her image. Maybe I couldn't get around her being a "gimmick" a over produced misunderstood artist.  But, like I have often learned in life, sometimes people really aren't appreciated until they are no longer with us. So with that in mind... I found this new release - Lioness: Hidden Treasures and gave it a try.

This album is is filled with various recordings of new and old songs that were packaged and released to the public after her death.  This is not  polished long lost hits album really, but it still showcases Amy's talent and voice when she was just messing around in the studio. I like this album, and it made me stop and recognized that she was a unique talent of this generation.  Like Harry Connick Jr. was in the 80s/90s, but better than that Buble guy of today (not hating, just not a fan).

Track rundown...
1. Our Day Will Come: Reggae infused ska beat with great vocals. Great start!
2. Between the Cheats: Doo-wop style ballad.. different but nice song
3. Tears Dry: I really like this song. Won't be a hit really but classic.
4. Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow: Signature song of this album probably. She works it!
5. Like Smoke (Featuring Nas): Yes. That Nas makes appearance. And I like the collaboration. Different but it works.
6. Valerie: I think this could be a radio hit also. Catchy tune. Decent track.
7. The Girl from Ipanema: I like this take. Playful but more soulful. A possible radio hit... A little scatting. Nice.
8. Halftime: Wowser... She got a Eryka Badu sound going on this one. One of my favorites. Contemporary R&B slipped in on this album.
9. Wake Up Alone: Another okay track.
10. Best Friends, Right?: Okay track. Not my favorite.
11. Body & Soul (Duet with Tony Bennett): Already a radio hit. A really beautiful song. She completely matches (ahem...exceeds) Tony note for note.
12. A Song for You: Another decent track. Some may like the bluesy feel.

Pros
1. Amy's Voice is classic... soulful, powerful in a little frame. Impressive.
2. The music is classic. A good album for a drive or just relaxing on beach somewhere. 
3. Favorites: Halftime, Like Smoke, Girl from Ipanema, Our time Will Come


Cons
1. Amy got some crazy in her... and it made her a bit special. There is no real crazy on this album. Felt it was missing.
2. Other than the Nas track, it would be interesting to see other artist of different styles working with her.

Body & Soul - Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse

Our Day Will Come - Amy Winehouse

Like Smoke (ft. Nas)

Lioness: Hidden Treasure Tribute Interview

One more thing... I found this touching tribute by Russell Brand that worth a read...

http://www.russellbrand.tv/2011/07/for-amy/


What other young artist passed near the peak of the career you wish could have created more art?

S.F. Guru