Although 2011 has not yet come to a close, people are already raving about the upcoming albums from today’s biggest stars. This year, we’ve witnessed the release of Mylo Xyloto by Coldplay, Metals by Feist, B in the Mix by Britney Spears, and several others. There are still several releases underway and these most awaited picks will be released in late 2011.
Kimbra: More than Hobbits in New Zealand
Good morning world music lovers! Today I want to share with you an upcoming artist who has certainly caught my ear. Kimbra is a New Zealand born, Australian based singer and and songwriter who released her debut full length album, Vows, back in the beginning of September. Although musically speaking Vows falls into the “pop” category, don’t expect anything less then a flawless soulful voice, catchy jazz filled hooks, and a unique and quirky personal style that is all class from this rising pop star. And people are taking notice:
Bloomington’s The Main Squeeze will leave you ‘Squozen’
A funk-tastic band from Bloomington, IN (yay), The Main Squeeze have been steadily making a name for themselves since their formation in 2009. Armed with a colorful and infectious sound the guys of The Main Squeeze, Corey Frye, Max Newman, Reuben Gingrich, Ben Silverstein, and Will Robinson seamless blend funk, soul, rock, and jam to create their original groovy sound. Perhaps the band describes their sound best as, “a raging funk experience, blending soulful vocals with high energy funk grooves and ripping solos that will leave you freshly squozen!” These guys certainly have an abundance of energy, that’s for sure. Now, after gaining a following for their fantastic live shows, the band has released their first studio project, “First Drops” available for free on their website although they reasonably ask for a donation for their ear candy. Check it out!
The Many Faces of the Banjo
Singing Happy Birthday Could Land You Jail Time
Ever since I was a child, I have looked forward to birthdays. The two things I remember best about my childhood parties was the large cake covered in sweet icing from top to bottom and hearing everyone sing the “Happy Birthday” song, loud, clear and in unison.
In my mind birthday parties weren’t official until the guests sang the birthday song, so just imagine the shock on my face when I heard that the innocent Happy Birthday song is protected by law and is illegal to sing in public!
In Honor of International Talk like a Pirate Day…
One of my favorite silly holidays, International talk like pirate day is quickly approaching (September 19th, 2011 for those who don’t know). So naturally I’ve been searching for some pirate tunes to celebrate (I’ll be at work, or else you know I’d be having a party). I came across a collection of Irish Pirate Ballads by Smithsonian Folkway Recordings and went nearly overboard with joy!
“Wiggle your Butt” Renaissance Style
World music instrument Pop Quiz time: Who can identify the name of the instrument in the picture to the left?
New Coldplay Release *[Paradise]*
Last week we updated you about the upcoming Coldplay album which I know a lot of people are anxiously awaiting. So I figured I’d do a quick update post with the brand new release of their second single from Mylo Xyloto.
Turkish Psychedelic Rock Cira 1960′s-70′s!!
Gong Linna 龚琳娜 : Chinese Art Music
您好(hello) music lovers!
I am so excited to share with you an amazing Chinese musician that was recently introduced to me. (Props to Jared Cline who posted a video of, “the Chinese Nicki Minaj!” for me to see!) Not to mention she’s super cute–just look at that smile!

