ROBOT CHILD ABUSE ALERT!!

ALERT!ALERT!ALERT!ALERT

So, we here at Marvelous Observations love life. And we think every "being" should have an equal shot at it. Today, however, we were proved wrong. After we were contacted by ROBOT FIENDS about the current robot child prototype flavor of the week, we have come to realize that some "beings" never even got a fair chance. This newest incarnation of the ugly face of capitalism has us all baffled (I think I spawned some more personalities overnight). At the supposed age of 13 (ahem) and outfitted with the (cutely misspelled computer nickname) Scooter Smiff, he (it) has taken the intertubewebz by storm and somehow (probably through malicious computer viruses) managed to get over 2 million views for his video. We have posted the video below, but for god's sake don't watch it. We heard there have been some security issues with Internet Explorer recently. Coincidence? Me thinks not. But back to the original point, this poor "being" is being abused, even by computer standards. Along with co-Robot Chris Brown, it is off and, seemingly, unstoppable. Lord Save Us All. Capitalism: 1, Us: 0

Holy Crap! Have Y'all Heard Of Interviews? Over The Internet?

Get out of town...ok, so some people have given interviews before. But not on their OWN site. On the forefront of this new development is this band Keane. They are British (har har). Pirate Style. And this site, to which, incidentally, I have a link to, is awesome. Look http://www.keanemusic.com

Ok, I was being ironic. But that's what hipsters do, right? Especially British ones.

In addition to their cutting edgeness, they also have widgets. Check it, son. Have you heard of these widgets?

Let Your Inner Child Roar (in anger)

Usually rodents are totally unwanted. Case in point:

But somehow, these get the full support and they are larger than life at this very moment. I mean, that's not the most difficult thing, seeing as how they are chipmunks (= tiny). They're so cuddlywuddly. And they have a brand new album of cover songs out that make me cringe in their original format. Granted, I am not their target audience but, holy sh*t!! Did someone say something about beating a dead horse? Rather, dead rodents? (They are turning 50 this year) Someone found the fountain of youth and didn't tell me about it? What the hell.

Hey, but we're in a recession. I guess you need to be able to distract your kids from death and destruction with something. What better way than to fill their heads to the brim with stuff that's already dumbed down three generations before them. Proven results. Like on the TV. speaking of TV, check out their new Christmas Video. I have to say, it stuck in my head and but I like the original better. I've even seen some reviews (!!) around the interwebtubes. May I just say, anyone who (seriously) reviewed this deserves swift kick in the nuts and 13 nonstop viewings of the film.

But if you must, buy it here.

Thank for your time,

VAB10

Dreary Days call for Dreary Music

...and who's drearier than Dido? Remember that video? She's standing in the rain or something and some white dude's rapping. Bet you never heard about it. I did though, cus I got my finger on the pulse of the underground. Now I bet you're jealous. So now comes the time when i shae my underground knowlidj and you look up to me and say "god he's awesome" and I whisper back "no". Here goes, get ready for it. Hope you're sitting down.

Dreary McDrear is back with a new album, and just in time, now that fall is here (drear season, get it? i'm drawing literary lines). The album came out November 18th and is called "Safe Trip Home" - like, in time for the holidays, maybe? I don't know. Judge for yourself. Sounds like a long f*cking grey hound bus ride, if you ask me. But what am I telling you if you can figure it out for yourself here.

kinda looks like it has something to with 2001: A Space Odyssey if you ask me...

BUY IT

But all's in good fun. I leave you with this - it should brighten up your day a little. rrrrrrrroooaaarrrrrrrr not so dreary now, huh?!?!

Win Luxury Incarnate and Feel Better About Your Lousy Self

In the spirit of Christmas someone dropped a case at my doorstep this morning. And what I found completely amazed me. Most of it was so aweful I wanted to go back to bed -- but other stuff... some of you may have heard of this guy Boz Scaggs...right right, disco something, Steve Miller, boomers, boring...BUT this guy's new album is actually quite soulful and (I'm a little ashamed to say; I think quite) good. So, I've decided to follow in the generous footsteps and give away Boz Scaggs' "Speak Low" right here on your truly Marvelous Observations.

So how do you win this, you ask? Write me an email about how mustaches have changed the world at wabten (at) gmail (dot) com... think that'll keep them creepy spiders off my back? I damn well hope so...

I've you don't belive me, have a listen here.

And buy it here. And watch here.

Ho Ho Ho - Jah Cures

Now back to our original programming.

So, I hear there is a little bit of confusion as to when Jah Cure's new album will finally hit, but I can assure you that it's long awaited (omg, I even heard somewhere that he was in jail cus look at the MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/freejahcure ...badass). In any case, the new album is called THE UNIVERSAL CURE. Hm, way to work that in there, buddy. But I'm pretty excited. At least now there will be new stuff for people to remix. And lordy, what a hansom stud.

See how much more laid-back the Carribeans are? I guess that Malibu Rum commercial (plug - send me a free bottle, y'all...swear I won't use it to clean my bike gears) wasn't all that wrong. Download a free MP3 here.

"I feel an impending psychotic ecliipse"

- Someone Who Knows What's Going on

HEY HEY CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE

FIRST TIME Ever Christmas Post. Imagine that - Father Christmas screaming "FIRST" on the Marvelous Observations Blog. Historic. And slightly self indulgent. Not really, I love christmas. Actually, I kinda lied there too. Oh, but Al Jarreau is cool.

psyche.

Too Bad it's so small - I just popped the CD in and boy do I wish you could see Jarreau's lips on the cover.

From The Press Release:
Al Jarreau has Christmas on his mind. This fall the seven-time Grammy-winning vocalist released his first-ever Christmas album - his first album of newly recorded music since 2006's sensational Givin'It Up with George Benson. AL JARREAU CHRISTMAS includes the singer's distinctive vocal spin on a dozen yuletide classics. This holiday collection is available now from Rhino Records at all physical outlets for a suggested list price of $18.98. The digital release is also available now for $9.99. Al Jarreau will tour the U.S. in December in support of Christmas. The tour will begin in New Haven, CT, on December 6.

EEEEEWWWWW - I mean, seriously. Al Jarreau is cool and all, but come on, man. He's like the Samuel L. Jackson of Music. Ha, I crack myself up.

Feel Free to listen in and make up your own mind.

Quicktime I Windows Media

It kind of sounds like someone took the mall piano guy hostage and made him blow Kenny G's Sax. If you know what I mean. Chills. Good Grief, I FEEL MORE TONE DEAF.

Tom Russell Singer Songwriter Extraordinaire and Singlehanded Saviour of the World

Have you heard of this guy? I mean, you might have. His songs were covered by Johnny Cash and Nancy Griffith nonetheless. That ain't nuthin' to shake a stick at, as they say down south, and maybe up north. Since I heard it up north - and have never been below the Mason-Dixon Line for fear of the raccoons for that matter. I hear they're pretty spooky. LOOK:

Ha - totally kidding. That's a total cat. I blame the internet. Huge Pussy. Even the dude is scared. But this isn't about pussies, is it? It's about Mr. Tom Russell. A true soul of the American Way. (I just copyrighted that term, so, stick it Uncle Sam) Next to writing songs for all kinds of famous country musicians, this guy actually taught school during the Biafran War. I know, I know, when I read that I was like, WHAT? Jello started WARS!?!?! But after a consulting my friend the librarian I found out that it was actually the Nigerian Civil war, which, as we all know probably wasn’t fun. So, I’ll just leave it at that. Props, Tom.

And now, for Veteran’s Day – which I totally failed to mention here on this blog, but swear I knew about – Tom released his Anthology. It includes a booklet with his art. I don’t know what it looks like. Maybe Outsider Art? I’ve never come to terms with it. There are other people that do that sort of thing and generally they kind of freak me out. Why do I keep on writing and not just offer up some of his musical gems. Cus I got MP3z, son. Ever heard of it? DOWNLOADABLE, YO. RIGHT HERE AND HERE.

He’s got some important shit to talk about. Spread the good word folks! And just so you know, this is what the CD looks like. So buy it on Amazon.

In fact, this guy kind of looks like the guy with the cat. weird.

Useless product of the day.

And we're back. This time with another box set of stuff. I understand people get a little nerdy about things but, come on now. The new Indiana Jones: The Soundtracks Collection (note: that's, like, all of them and the fancy color) is out today and it even includes an extra CD with "previously unreleased music from the films." OH SHIT! There's a short round squeek we haven't heard A MILLION TIMES. Hey, I mean, I love Indie as much as the next dude who used to watch Raiders of the Lost Ark over and over until his parents threatened to give him up for adoption (ha, i actually wrote abortion there first) because they couldn't hear it anymore, but in any case, this special edition case is a little bit too much. Plus, also, I dont like soundtracks. Personal, I know. There is one thing though, Soundtracks that are just random assortments of other people's songs piss me off A LOT more. Just for kicks, check out the INDIE Giving:




Editor's special note: This post requires necessary viewing of South Park Episode 1208 (I think).

...and not so leggy feature but legs come to mind none the less.

Because the man who all mothers love just released a definitive set. Good for me, because that certainly takes care of what I’m getting moms for Christmas. Merry Christmas, Mom. Love you.
And in case you’re not a mom, which is perfectly ok, you can get your Rod Stewart fix right here:
http://rhino.edgeboss.net/qtime/rhino/listeningparties/514093/514093_sops.mov
http://rhino.edgeboss.net/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/514093/514093_sops_56.waxhttp://rhino.edgeboss.net/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/514093/514093_sops_100.wax
The Definitive Rod Stewart CD set will be available on Nov 18th.

And this is so impressive that I had to copy and paste. From the press release:

With an estimated 250 million in album and single sales, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Rod Stewart arguably possesses one of rock’s greatest and most distinctive voices. For many years, he called Warner Bros. home, first as lead singer of the influential band the Faces and later as an internationally successful solo artist. This fall, Warner Bros. will launch a comprehensive catalog release campaign that focuses on Stewart’s solo years with Warner Bros., featuring Collector’s Editions of some of the artist’s biggest-selling albums, a trio of boxed sets spotlighting studio, live and rare recordings, as well as compilations of Stewart’s duets, soundtrack contributions and more.

...just, wow.

Retro Hot Feature

As a kid I loved Phil Collins. Then my friend played "I Can't Dance" on his saxophone. It was terrible. But I like the song. And also, I found out about Genesis, and guess what - they're pretty awesome. So it is my honor and privilege to present to you – The Genesis 1970-1975 Box Set AND it’ll be in stores Nov 11th. Now, it is undeniable that these prog rockers have done a tremendous amount for pop culture, plus they've given us one of the biggest bitch fests ever between to former band mates and that makes for endless entertainment. So, sit down, shut up and watch this video and you’ll be transported right back to before you were born – HA. Let’s put the theatrics back into Rock And Roll.

http://rhino.edgeboss.net/qtime/rhino/musicvideos/genesis/V_FL_Genesis_I_Know_What_I_Like_In_Your_Wardrobe__From_Box_Set_19701975_243398_450.mov


And look, they joined the internet revolution:

http://www.myspace.com/genesismusic


Fancy doesn't stop there, check it:

HEY HEY WE'RE GONNA BEAT DIABETES

The Man, The Legend BB KING and his best love Lucille are at it again. The duo is back with with a new album "One Kind Favor" and it's a gem. So, instead of blabbing about it, check out the EPK below. I love EPKs.

https://admin.secure.streamos.com/streamos/player/flv/?url=http://geffen.edgeboss.net/flash/geffen/bb_king/video/onekindfavorepk/30/hi.flv

Just look at that! It's so melancholy. Gazing into the future. Oh B.B. King!

OMG Bi-Monthly Leg Feature

Off the top of your head, who comes to mind when you think of leggy music perform singers?

TINA TURNER!! Duh!!

I mean, the lady is pushing 90 and looks better than me. I know my pops is all about her. I am too, weirdly enough... talk about inter-generational.

So, now, the queen of soul (can I call her that?) put out a career spanning set of hits called, unironically, "Tina!"

God, she's awesome. Click through to get to her official site: http://www.tinaturner.live.com

And feel free to sample here and here.

SPECIAL EDITION WEEKEND POST

God - I'm Awesome. You'll never guess what I got going today. In fact, I dare you. You're not gonna guess, I know it, so, I'll just make it easy for you and tell you:

BIKE KILL!!

To get my soft office hands a little dirtied up.



If you look really hard, you can totes make me out riding the shoe bike. No joke. Man, that was awesome. So, now I'm gonna go do the same, except, it will rain, and my mascara will run. i'll look like a prom date left at the stoop. But first I need to wait for a delivery, OMGOMGOMGOMG hurry it up already. DRUNK!

Gonzo Journalism In All It's Glory

What can I say about Mr. Hunter S. Thompson? Except, I'm pretty sure everyone who named their kids Hunter definitely read fear and loathing while stoned and possibly copulating. This man, nay, legend LIVED the American Dream! As is exploited thorougly in various movies, etc - we all know that. BUT. Now The Gonzo Tapes are out. That's Mr. Gonzo's own tapes, available for everyone to gain (some) insight to the inner workings of the man's brain. You can get a taste of the audio madness here. Oh, and look at what it all comes with:

In all seriality, i'm done for the day. I bet the gonz never got sick. dying ova heee.

Hip Hop Hurray - $10 Million Worth

Hey - so, I promised some color, here we go:

$tack$ (note: $ = s) just released "CraZee And ConfuZed" and guess what? It features a vertiable who's who of todays hip hop top 40. CHECK THIS SHIZ OUT, SON!!

Li’l Wayne BLAM!!

Fat Joe BLAM BLAM!!!

Twista - psh

AND f*cking Swizz Beatz

I like Swizz Beatz -

Buy this shit and help stacks get some of his $10 million back...

Seriously? I try, I try to understand - but maybe some one should pay an accountant to sit down with my man stacks and discuss his spending habbits. NO BLING FOR YOU!!

Sample his melodyz (HA - INSIDE JOKE) HERE and lord knows support our youth!

LUCKY THURSDAY!!

Guess what I just got? I chance to win an iPod Touch! "Get out of town", you say? I beg to differ. The best news of all? YOU CAN TOO.

So, there's this band, right? And they just put out a new record - with me? And to promote that new record, they are giving it away. Plus an iPod touch. Yeah. That's what I said. So here goes.

KEANE, from britland, i believe, just released "Perfect Symmetry" and you can enter to win their stuff by clicking this particularly blue looking HERE.

(lolz, they are being so symmetrically ironic)

But also, while you are trying to win their gear - give them a chance and have a listen - also HERE. They are blowing up the spot.

What did I say? White through the board!

This time it's up to british crooner and total hearthrob James Morrison. Ha, with a names like THAT...I bet he never heard that one before. He's pretty touchy feely. With an album name like "Songs for You, Truths for Me" and song titles like "Nothing Ever Hurt Like You" (you can sample it here) - I wouldn't want to hurt his feelings or anything.

Lets just line them up though:

Are Beards the new heroin*?

I leave you with that. In the meantime BUY IT.

*I am convinced that heroin is responsible for some of the great musical acts this past century or two - lets see, oh, uh, robert johnson uhhh the lead singer from alice in chains...and then some. So anyway, go figure.

MORE COLORS!!

Psyche!! - No Colors hereSwinging, Sexy (Mustochiod) Surfer Dude is up to some new shenanigans. Donavon Frankenreiter just released his third album - second for Lost Highway, which is a plus, in my opinion - "Pass It Along" and it's, to no one's surprise, really, exactly what you would expect; swinging, sexy, relaxed and chill, reminiscent of some beach you were at once for a hot minute thinking to yourself, shit - I wish I would live here. Phew. I was gonna go on, but my grammar skills need to be honed a little still. In any case, if you’re about to crack open that tequila sunrise in a bottle wishing you were in California instead of steadily cooling NY then you can’t make a better choice than Mr. Frankenreiter’s new offering. On the other hand – if you’re looking for some real, insightful sh*t, then…yo, you know you get the best insights when you’re chilling and don’t have a paper and a pad on you – chose Frankenreiter.

Have a listen, why don't you? It just may make you want to visit a hilton. By the way - as a surfer/bum (like someone i know) I would be outraged at the fact that they used Donavon's music for a hilton commercial. Damn it. That wouldn't be very chill though, bro, so, I'll leave it at that. Steaming on the inside. slowly.

To vent some steam - here is an added bonus:

HA - He's a dirt hippy too, and look what happened to him. And also, thanks to someone else for finding a (more awesome and shorter) video. PEACE.

oh SN*P - More Old School TV

- Thanks to the Minisode Network I can now check out old TV shows in no time at all. This is the episode of "What's Happening!!" about an election. Guess what? We're about to have an election too!! - Coincidence? I think so, maybe. But anyway, kick back, relax and let some wholesome TV seep into your brain.

...and another BLAST FROM THE PAST - This Time in the Form of Arena Rock and Many Other Styles Covering a Everything From AC/DC to Drum Machines

It's a Mixed Bag of Tricks but Todd Rundgren is BACK! with style and vengance. The former lead singer of the New Cars is up to his old tricks with shredding guitars and howling Rock and Roll. He's on Tour so you should probably go check him out - it's good for the soul

10/10 – Pittsburgh, PA Rex Theatre
10/11 – Tarrytown, NY Tarrytown Music Hall
10/13 – Knoxville, TN Bijou Theatre
10/15 – Asheville, NC The Orange Peel
12/17 – Alexandria, VA Birchmere
12/19 – Bay Shore, NY YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts
12/20 – Norfolk, CT Infinity Hall
12/26 – New York, NY Blender Theatre at Gramercy
12/30 – Annapolis, MD Rams Head On Stage

I mean, look at this man - Style's oozing from the Mic Stand:

On second though it might not be a mic stand at all, but a guitar and a cymbal? Alright, that does it. I'm going to give two copies to the person that can explain to me with out a doubt what those things are.

Ha - jk, you think i'm just gonna give you free CDs? Please. We're in a recession.

----- I actually was joking about that last part - I just wanted for you to appreciate it more.

Have a HEADPHONE LISTEN

Thanks - Much Love Todd

First Hip Hop Post EVER!!

I'll try and not let it be the last one cus HEY - I kind of like this. These dudes may rap about cappucinos - yet in a styling and intelligent way. Plus, their sense of fashion is on key. Also, I feel strangley attracted to light, dark skinned women now. Uhoh - jungle fever. But enough about women cus this duo "holds it down" as they say. Enjoy some fly beats and rhymes and check them out



Honestly? I wish more people would make music like this.

UPDATE: I googled terrorist scarfs - they are called "keffiyeh." That was wrong of me.

MORE Country. In Fact - 20 Hits of It!

Ha - get it? Like, Meth.

Oh lord, now they done it. The NOW franchise FINALLY came out with a country collection. How many of you have been waiting for this since the first NOW compilation came out some time in the stone ages? (I bet it had that "Macarena" song on it. Good lord i hated that song.) So, luckily, NOW they're back, pun totally intended. The CD includes "hits" from Carrie Underwood, holler, and Keith Sweat, I mean, Urban and middle America loves it. All I know is that I heard something about cold beer and god being a great fit. In reality, that is all I ever need to hear...I'll pull a Palin and get back to you about the details. In the meantime, go out and buy the record and then you can go download 5 more songs some where. SPECIAL SECRET CODE. psssssst! And look, this Carrie is hot too.

Carrie Rodriguez Is An Awesome Musician (And Pretty Cute Too)!

OH LOOK!! More hot legs - although this time it seems they are clothed. But BELIEVE me. I saw them in real life. Plus this one plays a not everyday instruments as well: fiddle. And she's good at it - first person experience. Although that's being kept on the back burner on this record and her songwriting skills are the focus. And DAMN IT she's cute. But for real, her musician ship is undisputed. She did put out four records with Chip Taylor.

Have a LISTEN
or a LOOK

and definitely BUY

UPDATE!!:

I TOLD YOU SO!!

Team Four Christians, an Atheist and a Jew Walk Into A Bar...Two Sentence Analysis of Historic Flip Cup Tournament

**Sp*c**l*ps: if flip cup was a humongous cock
**Sp*c**l*ps: we really went to town on it

Thank you.

So I don't usually do this...

...but this one just holds a special spot in my heart. I found an old VCR tape (!) back in the day once, and as I plopped it in, this cop show came on. I figured it was older than me, cus, you know, people looked orange and stuff. Maybe that was also the VCR - good thing we have Blu-Ray these days. In any case, i was totally watching Adam 12. And I only realized this just now. so here goes, for the sake of my childhood memories - go out and support those that inspired me to be a detective when I grow up.

I mean, just LOOK at those bad motherf*ckers. I even found the trailer. GAH - why can't TV be this awesome all the time.



Adam-12 Season Two Trailer from Anna Withers on Vimeo.

YES! Bad guys beware - Ninja Cat - SUCK IT!!

WAR IS DECLARING WAR ON TODAY

Today's Blast From the Past!!!

War, remember that band? they wrote that song that everyone thought was written by Cheech and Chong - that's right "Low Rider" - and some other stuff too. I bet you know all their other songs too - Cisco Kid, damn straight, been doing laps in my brain all week. I'll get to the point. They are coming out with a super long awaited Live album (first ever) and it's also the first thing they've put outin FOURTEEN years. like, wow! This will be out in all sorts of formats, including Blu-Ray.

You can order it here.

KEEP THE PEACE ALIFE!!! HA. zing. hippies.

Apparently I Also Like Internet Videos

NINJA CAT ---- It's like it's moving. But it's not. This is why cats can kill you.



oh yeah, and if you have a short attention span, jump to the 30 sec mark.

It's a BOY!...no, it's a, uh, GIRL!!! WHO CARES? What matters is that it ROCKS!!

She's not brand new on the scene and she is definitely starting to leave her mark.

Check it:
"Armed with a voice that weaves seamlessly between being fierce and vulnerable, L.P. can captivate an audience with a single note, and turn a crowd of strangers into rabid fans with just one song. Nothing iterates this point better than the story of SXSW 2006 where her live performance inspired a label bidding war. This ultimately led to her being signed by LA Reid himself to Island Records. While L.P. says it’s “nice” that she inspired the competition, the singer ultimately walked away from the deal with her songs in hand, the material that will be included on her forthcoming album on SoBe Entertainment."

She lives in Brooklyn. So do I. I'm going to to track her down. I mean, just listen. Stirring.

That's what that felt like.

So Young And Already with the Rykodisc Collection

Josh Rouse will relase a two-disc, 32-song anthology spanning the seven years on Rykodisc that includes his best songs, rare tracks plus a couple of unreleased demos and outtakes available on September 9th! He has tremendous talent' Seriously. Dont't believe me? check it out
Here
and
Here

and if you're a trooper, buy it here.

You know Rhino can do no wrong!

Elisa is "Dancing" with joy

How could she not? Her album is doing great on iTunes and went on sale all over the country. She's enjoyed a huge rise in popularity after her single "Dancing" was featured on So You Think You Can Dance. Check out the video to "Rainbow" featuring Lacey Schwimmer.



and check out "Dancing" and don't forget to buy the CD here.

Zebrahead's new album is everything everyone expected

So, this new album is good. Packed with what's made them famous, the new CD is better than the parts it's made up of. In addition, there's this nifty DVD that packed with all the WILD fun these kids have on the road. Don't believe me? watch the video and get a feel for yourself. Kind of takes me back the good ole days...


For fruther listening pleasure, i present to you this crazy EP that came out before the album but is not to be discounted. at iTunes
and if you need your fix, by it here.

Red State Update - What Did You Expect?

Seriously?



These dudes are hilarious. I'm not usually one for Comedy CDs but frankly, seventeen thirteenths SONG and a little too much nudity. You don't have to be from the South to enjoy hits like "If I was you (I'd start drinking)" and Jackie's own AWESOME rendition of "Simple Man."

I'm looking forward to the news now because these two are going to have a something to say about it.

I'll leave you all with this little nugget of wisdom - oh, and buy the CD here:

Man Raze - Unfortunate, I Know, But...

...you wouldn't believe it: They don't actually suck. In fact, these aging rockers have been around the block so often they can probably write music that'll appeal to more than two people in their sleep. Although not the best record I ever heard, I do recommend you give this Surreal bizniss a listen. For serious. For pete's sake, it's the guy from Def Leppard and the other guy from the SEX PISTOLS. Some dude from Girl is involved too, but i was never into glam. So...no, no so. buy the CD here. Support the industry - if only for nostalgia. HA! so for samples check visuals here and if that's TM, listen here.

Sultry Sophistication from South America

Folks. This band sounds like the members its made up of. In fact, that saying "more than the sum of it's parts" is entirely apt in this case. Bajofondo will perform in NY Aug 15 FOR FREE and you bet I'll be there in time to not get the stupid long lines. Check out some sampleZ.

Super awesome, off "Mar Dulce":

Pa' Bailar & Fairly Right

This isn't your momma's tango. Also, should be completely obvious once deccipher the cover.

Oh, and I have 2 copies of the single available on vinyl. Leave the name of the two movies the band leader received a Grammy for and you can win "Pa' Bailar" 12".

LOLzzzzZOMG

oh gawd - more HOTTness! ! !

This time from the High Heavens of SOL
who decides? She decides!
check out that video. Hot.

SoL-AngeL is at it again, the talented singer, songwriter, artist, and entrepreneur, Solange Knowles is ready to set the world on fire with a sound that is sure to breathe life into a sometimes stagnant music scene. With her sophomore set, SoL-AngeL and The Hadley Street Dreams, on her new label home of Geffen Records through Music World Entertainment, Solange takes us through a walk in yesteryear with an uber modern twist. SoL-AngeL and The Hadley Street Dreams is due for release on August 26th.
On SoL-AngeL and The Hadley Street Dreams, SoL-AngeL enlisted help from producers and songwriters that she knew would capture the sound she wanted to project instantly; but getting them to believe in her wasn’t easy.
“I literally had to beg Cee-Lo to listen to my music but once he did he signed on immediately,” states the giddy SoL-AngeL. “We wrote and recorded ‘T.O.N.Y’ and ‘Sandcastle Disco’ (produced by Soul Shock) that same week. Producer Jack ‘Splash’ joined in to produce ‘T.O.N.Y’ and went on to produce two more songs for me: ‘Would’ve Been the One’ and ‘Ode To Marvin,’ my special take on Mr. Gaye’s ‘What’s going On,’ both of which I wrote with Splash and Makeba.”
For the remainder of the album SoL-AngeL went on to work with Pharrell for the finger-snapping, feel-good first single “I Decided,” Lil Wayne makes an intoxicated guest appearance on “Champagnechronicnightcap,” Bilal helps write and appears on “Cosmic Journey” and “Wanna Go Back,” which Marsha Ambrosius of Floetry lends vocals to, and Raphael Saddiq produces the soulfully insightful, “Same Song, Different Man,” which features Estelle

Look at those LEGS!!!

HERE TOO!!!!!

Oh, and she plays saxophone too.

Listen to “Smile” and “Stars” - Just in time for the weekend.

MINDI ABAIR, saxophonist/vocalist/composer is set to release her first Peak Records (a division of Concord Music Group CD titled STARS on May 6, bursting on to the pop scene as one of an exciting new generation of crossover artists. For the CD, Abair wrote 11 new songs, with five songs showcasing her vocals. Her instrumental single, Smile, is currently on R&R at #13 and is rising; and her vocal song Stars, will be serviced to AC radio on April 28. Collaborator/producer Matthew Hager enlisted a group of stalwarts from the pop world to contribute to the new CD including keyboardist Ricky Peterson (John Mayer, Prince), drummer Abe Laboriel, Jr. (Paul McCartney, Sting) and cellist Richard Dodd, (Faith Hill, Foo Fighters). Mindi will also preview tracks from the new CD to fans worldwide at DeepRockDrive.com on May 1 @ 6:00 p.m. PST (from Las Vegas), a high-definition, multi-stream live show in which fans from all over the world can enjoy her concert simultaneously. Each participate can “shout out” song requests and send messages to Mindi live throughout the performance.
STARS is the follow up to Abair’s 2006 CD Life Less Ordinary, which debuted on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz chart at #1; and spawned three #1 hit singles on Radio & Records. Her debut CD, It Just Happens That Way, stayed in the Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks, and she was named the #1 most played Contemporary Jazz CD of 2003 by Jazz Week. Abair has established herself in the pop world touring with Adam Sandler, Mandy Moore, Josh Groban, Duran Duran and Backstreet Boys’ Millennium Tour; and her vocal song I Can Remember was featured in Aaron Spelling’s hit “Summerland”; while Every Time was featured in Robin Williams/Mandy Moore’s “License To Wed”.

Buy it for the LEGS or check out more LEGS

Joe Cocker took his hat off

Feast your ears on the new, sultry sounds of Mr. Joe Cocker:

“Love Is For Me”

“You Haven’t Done Nothin”

On May 13th, Fantasy Records will release Hymn For My Soul, the newest album from legendary singer Joe Cocker. The album unites Cocker, possessor of one of the world’s most instantly recognisable and iconic voices (Lennon & McCartney’s With A Little Help From My Friends, anyone?), with Ethan Johns, who has proved both his worth and his Midas touch via albums he’s produced for, among others, Rufus Wainwright, Emmylou Harris, Ryan Adams, Razorlight, Kings of Leon, and Ray LaMontagne. The union has resulted in one of the most accomplished pieces of work in the Sheffield-born singer’s long and illustrious career, and one played by arguably the most stellar band to be assembled in a recording studio anywhere in the world in recent times.

Among them are drummers Jim Keltner (uniformly viewed as the best session drummer in the world, a man who played with John Lennon and Bob Dylan), and James Gadson (as well as producing classic albums for the soul star Bill Withers, he drummed on hit recordings by artists ranging from Gladys Knight to Justin Timberlake). Also present are Tom Petty’s pianist Benmont Tench, former Jethro Tull keyboard player Dave Palmer, bassist Bob Babbitt (member of Motown Records’ studio band The Funk Brothers in the ‘60s and ‘70s, and hence a player on more seminal recordings than can be listed here), and Hammond organist Mike Finnigan (who played with Jimi Hendrix on Electric Ladyland). Completing the all-star line-up on backing vocals are Merry Clayton (once one of Ray Charles’s Raelettes, she sang on the Stones’ Gimme Shelter), Tata Vega, Julia Walters, her brother Oren Walters, and Jim Gilstrap.

Check it out officially

Buy It

Are you A Merry Can or A Sad Can????

Why don't we ask Daniel Lowery- American Extraordinaire

“I’m An American” Listen
“I’m An American” Look

Buy IT

Patriotism in song usually emanates from country & western singers. Patriotism, pride and passion are felt, but seldom verbalized, by African-Americans. “I’m An American,” an emotive and timely new ode to American troops, touchingly delivered by established Las Vegas crooner Daniel Lowery, who is African-American, was released nationwide on May 5th.

The song, written by Lowery, Miami producer/songwriter Hal S. Batt and Nashville songwriter Jennifer Constantine, is an uplifting tribute to American troops and a reminder to the American people of the precious freedoms that we sometimes take for granted. “I want this song to be an anthem,” says Lowery. “I want to send the message that we need to come together as a country and be as one and change the way things are going on here.”

Producer Batt, who has worked with an array of superstars, including Julio Iglesias, Shakira, Sandi Patty, Jean Carne, and Regina Belle, agrees. “The reason for this song is to give people hope. It’s because they’re doing their job that I’m able to do my job here. I feel indebted to do a song that’s going to make them smile.”

A poignant, touching video accompanies the release of the single. “I'm An American,” the first single from Lowery's upcoming self-titled Timbo/Jam Records CD, is available at CDBaby.com, itunes and http://www.timbojamrecords.com/.

Lowery is an established Las Vegas singer, having shared the stage with everyone from Bill Cosby to Gladys Knight. Originally performing under the moniker of Jamariah (Swahili for “dream chaser”), he built up a substantial following. One of the few African-American singers with his own Vegas act, he has performed at the Monte Carlo Hotel for nearly four years.
“I'm An American” is the right song for these days and times, lending a human aspect to the current status for thousands of our courageous military men and women. Those honorable troops are our family members and this song gives a voice to them. Now more than ever, Americans are strong and looking toward a brighter tomorrow for everyone.
Daniel Lowery's heartfelt “I'm An American” beautifully demonstrates that a Black man in America can have an anthem too!

The Big Dog Daddy Does it Again

Toby Keith’s 35 Biggest Hits released is battling Lil Wayne in the charts this week. The greates hits album includes “She’s A Hottie.” Check the viral below:

“Hottie Yourself” Viral Video:

http://ume.f2m2.com/hottie

Singer, songwriter, entertainer and all around Big Dog Daddy Toby Keith tends to do things, well, big. And so the May 6 release of his latest hits collection tips the scales with two discs filled to bursting with smash singles. Toby Keith 35 Biggest Hits spans the multi-platinum performer's entire career, and adds a kicker.
Released on his own Show Dog Nashville label and Universal Music Enterprises, 35 Biggest Hits opens with his first No. 1 hit, 1993's "Should've Been A Cowboy," and runs all the way through his 2006 chart-topper "A Little Too Late." In between, the compilation serves up favorites including "Who's That Man" (1994), "How Do You Like Me Now ?!" (1999), “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” (2002), “Who’s Your Daddy?” (2002), “I Love This Bar” (2003), “American Soldier” (2003) and “As Good I Once Was” (2005). Incidentally, Keith is currently filming the major motion picture "Beer For My Horses" (which is the same title as his 2002 hit that will also be included) in New Mexico.
The hits collection is punctuated by a new single, “She’s A Hottie,” that is roaring up the charts. And with the two-disc set's availability, music fans will have the chance to own some of the high points of a career that has seen more than its share. Keith has sold more than 30 million albums, he's been deluged with critical praise and peer approval in the form of awards, and he's consistently been one of the top-drawing live performers in the nation.

Sinatra played the movies, too?

Ole Frankie blues eyes is EVERYWHERE these days. I'm starting to think he pulled a Tupac.

Check him out on the all new Turner Classic Movies video stream celebrating his music in the movies below. The CD is out on EMI/Capitol.

Frank Sinatra: The Man and His Music Video Streams:

http://emicat.edgeboss.net/download/emicat/sinatra/franksinatra_at-the-movies_300.wmv
http://emicat.edgeboss.net/download/emicat/sinatra/franksinatra_at-the-movies_700.wmv

MY FAVORITE!!!

“The Lady Is A Tramp”

http://emicat.edgeboss.net/qtime/emicat/sinatra/audio/11_the_lady_is_a_tramp_pal_joey.mov

Frank Sinatra was a titan of 20th Century entertainment, with record-breaking successes in both music and film throughout his legendary career. Capitol/EMI celebrates Ol' Blue Eyes' musical contributions to many of Hollywood's most memorable classic films, in several of which he also starred, with the April 15 release of a new 20-track CD and digital collection titled Sinatra At The Movies.

Sinatra At The Movies includes title themes from The Tender Trap, From Here To Eternity, Young At Heart, Three Coins In The Fountain and Not As A Stranger, as well as “Chicago” and “All The Way” from The Joker Is Wild, “I Could Write A Book” and “The Lady Is A Tramp” from Pal Joey, “How Deep Is The Ocean” and “All Of Me” from Meet Danny Wilson, “To Love And Be Loved” from Some Came Running, and more.

Sinatra At The Movies is one of several high-profile music and DVD releases honoring the Chairman of the Board’s storied career as a pioneering legend of entertainment. Other upcoming salutes to Sinatra include a commemorative U.S. postage stamp to enter circulation on May 13 and special TV programming, co-hosted by his children, through the month of May on Turner Classic Movies (TCM), including more than 30 of Sinatra's films and four of his television specials.

Frank Sinatra’s Sinatra At The Movies Microsite:

www.franksinatraatthemovies.com

Frank Sinatra Official Site:

http://www.franksinatra.com

Teddy Geiger Fans Rejoice

More Power to US!!!

Teddy Geiger and Columbia Records are giving music fans the opportunity to pick the songs which will make up the next Teddy Geiger album due later this year! Teddy has written 33 songs for the album and by visiting his website http://www.musicane.com/tg33/home fans can be a part of this groundbreaking experience and choose the 11 songs that will eventually be on Teddy's new record. Teddy is set to headline the "TG33 4U Tour" which will kick off June 11th and cover North America to showcase the new material. I've included tour dates and a press release below so let me know if you're interested in featuring Teddy on Stomp And Stammer.

Teddy Geiger’s Official TG 33 Site:

http://www.musicane.com/tg33/home

Teddy Geiger will hit the road in June to headline the "TG33 4U Tour," a 33 date summer-long North American concert tour beginning June 11 at the Glass House in Pomona, California and running through July 24 at the Handlebar in Greenville, South Carolina (see full itinerary following). Rising young artist Hilary McRae will support on the tour.

Teddy's 33 venue concert tour presented by CoverGirl follows the launch of his unprecedented TG33 online initiative. The TG33 Fan Experience will give Geiger's fans their first taste of 33 newly recorded original Teddy Geiger songs with the opportunity to A&R, listen, rate and vote on which of the new songs they'd most like to appear on Teddy's forthcoming album, his first since his critically-acclaimed "Underage Thinking" entered the Billboard Top 200 at #8 in March 2006 and yielded a million selling Hot AC Top 10 single -- "For You I Will" -- when Geiger was just 16.

The Ted-Heads Fan Community, launching in tandem with TG33, will offer fans the chance to purchase single tracks, select bundles, or all 33 songs at a variety of price points: $0.99 a la carte songs; $9.99 for 11 tracks; $19.99 for 11 tracks + Fan Club membership/benefits; $29.99 for all 33 tracks + Fan Club membership/benefits.

Teddy's made more than 210,000 friends on his MySpace page (MySpace.com/TeddyGeiger), which has logged more than 11 million total song plays.

In addition to his new recordings, Hollywood is already buzzing over Teddy's upcoming feature film debut starring as "Curtis" in "The Rocker," the new comedy from director Peter Cattaneo ("The Full Monty") with Rainn Wilson ("The Office"), Christina Applegate ("Samantha Who?," "Married With Children"), Emma Stone ("Superbad"), Josh Gadd ("Back To You"). "The Rocker" opens nationwide August 1, 2008.

Go look "Between the Trees" at the Warped Tour - psyche, it's totally a band name.

“The Way She Feels” Audio Streams:

Between the Trees is Ryan Kirkland: guitar/lead vocals, Brad Kriebel: guitar/vocals, Wes Anderson: keyboards/percussion, Jeremy Butler: bass and Josh Butler: drums

The mission of Between the Trees lies in plain view. It’s not just in the music, though their sound is a wonder: hard-hitting, ambitious, accessible, riddled with unforgettable hooks that course through a sonic landscape of open vistas, quiet private spaces and sun-drenched, slamming beats. Certainly there’s much to appreciate in their words, from celebrations of love (“White Lines & Red Lights”) to meditations on despair (“The Way She Feels” & “A Time for Yohe”). But an even greater truth stands Between the Trees … literally. It’s in the name itself – specifically, in the space staked out by its suggestion of beginning and end. “One tree represents where time and existence begins,” ventures lead singer Ryan Kirkland. “The other is the end of everything. Between them is the time we’re given on Earth. What matters is what we do with that time.”
You can’t get simpler – or more profound – than that. And it’s not only the starting point for what you hear from these five guys. It’s also the creed that’s driven them to accomplish something extraordinary. To appreciate this, as you spin The Story and The Song, remember this: Just three years ago, as the group was coming together, some of its members hadn’t even begun to master their instruments. “Playing well wasn’t what drew us to each other,” Ryan explains. “We figured that we would become good at what we did with time, and we didn’t worry about how long that would take. What was always most important to us was our personal connections to each other. With that, we knew that we’d be able to do whatever we needed to do.”
The independent release under Manager David McKenna’s Bonded Records that landed on three Billboard charts in first week without true distribution … the subsequent distribution deal with Universal Fontana that allowed the band to sell thousands more records without a major label … the recent joint venture of Bonded with Universal Motown making BTT the first “upstream” from a Universal indie to a Universal major … the two sold-out tours through the entire UK… the confirmation for the entire 2008 Warped Tour… the fans whose MySpace and website posts testify to their trust, loyalty and love …
None of these witnesses to this band’s rise might have believed, at one time, that anyone could climb so far, so quickly. Yet now, knowing Between the Trees, you could say that doing anything less would have been more of a surprise. Their story – and their songs – trace back to the friendship that grew between Ryan and Josh some seven years ago. Ryan had been playing guitar for about a year; Josh announced that he was a drummer. “So,” Ryan says, laughing, “someone who was not a great guitarist and someone who lied about playing drums started this band.”
Josh’s brother Jeremy soon wanted to come onboard; though he’d never played bass, he picked up the basics from Ryan. They worked as a trio for a while, morphed into an acoustic act, and then ran into Wes Anderson; he was recruited to play keyboards, though his previous experience was his high school drumcore. Maybe seven months later, willing to try anything once, they added an actual experienced musician, Brad Kriebel, who had been playing guitar with hardcore bands around Orlando for a few years. Thus the stage was set and, early in 2005, Between the Trees began its adventures.
Their first steps were small. With most of them still in high school, they concentrated on local gigs: parties, church events and downtown clubs like the Social. After securing management, the plan was set forth to make their own full-length album. Manager McKenna formed Bonded Records for the purpose of this release and booked them with producer Pete Thornton (Shinedown, Paramore, Day of Fire). For six weeks, before tape rolled, they locked themselves into an intense pre-production regimen. The plan was to get their material ready to record; the result was that plus maybe five new songs that rocked as hard and spoke as truthfully as everything they’d already written.
“It was super-stressful,” Ryan admits. “We usually write from experience, and it was hard to just sit in a room and pound out our ideas; that wasn’t much of an experience at all. So we left the studio and went out into the neighborhood, into this nearby park area, almost like children. Kids can escape easily from the mundane, day-to-day routine; it’s not so easy for us to get away and find ourselves again in that way. But we learned that again by going out into the forest, getting dirty and remembering why we do what we do. It was totally inspirational.”
That spirit drives The Story and The Song. “The Forward” opens the album like a rocket; “You Cry a Tear to Start a River” brings it back, its good-time, sing-along beat cushioning a gentle descent into the shelter offered by hope. Everything in the middle – between these trees of liftoff and coming home – sums up what Between the Trees is about.
Now that the record is in the hands of Universal Motown, the world is the oyster for this young band. This acclaimed album is being re-released with fresh mixes from Mark Endert (Maroon 5, Madonna, Gavin Degraw); these songs are sure to be gracing the airwaves, big screen, and small screen in the very near future. The world is about to learn that the meaning of Between the Trees involves more than music; it’s the beginning of comfort and joy, wisdom and celebration. This is a band not to be taken lightly and never to be forgotten, whose secrets and pleasures are there for all to enjoy … between the trees.

“White Lines and Red Lights” Audio Streams:

Between The Trees Official Site:

and MySpace page:


Buy IT

Hayes Carll is coming to your town

This guy is great AND he's currently on tour. check out one of the best song's off his album (not counting the Tom Waits cover - kicks Scarlett's ass, anyway).

"She Left Me For Jesus" Streaming - no thanks to websheriff

Hayes on Lost Highway
http://www.losthighwayrecords.com/artist/default.aspx?aid=254

The Bishop is Back with a Little Help from his Friends

Solomon Burke's new album will hit stores on June 10th on Shout! Factory and it seems that he called some of his buddies to help him out. The album features songs written by Eric Clapton, Ben Harper and more. A national tour will follow, including stops at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the Hollywood Bowl.

Check out “Like A Fire” written by Eric Clapton:

http://www.shoutfactory.com/av/solomonburke/like_a_fire/like_a_fireFULL.asx

and “We Don’t Need It” written by Keb' Mo":

http://www.shoutfactory.com/av/solomonburke/like_a_fire/we_dont_need_itFULL.asx

This June will see the release of Solomon Burke’s highly personal new album, Like A Fire. Burke has had a long illustrious career which includes a Grammy® award and an induction into the Rock and Roll hall of fame. His influence as an artist has long reached across generations, as is evident here on this soulful new project featuring songs written specifically for the album by an all-star team of songwriters, including Eric Clapton, Ben Harper, Jesse Harris, and Keb’ Mo’.
The songs on Like A Fire are based on Burke’s reflections on life, and his concern for the state of the world. A spare, honest and emotionally raw album, Like A Fire was produced by Grammy®-winning master drummer Steve Jordan, who has worked with Bob Dylan, Keith Richards, Stevie Wonder, John Mayer and countless other greats, and who also wrote three tracks for the album.
When a song receives the honor of being performed by Burke, the King of Rock and Soul, it is bestowed a rare and beautiful power. On Like A Fire Burke gives his unparalleled treatment to a new batch of songs that cover a wide range of emotions. “Songs take a message directly to your heart,” says Solomon Burke. “When you can’t speak for yourself, sometimes a song can say something in three minutes that you’ve been trying to say all your life.”
Like A Fire features a top-notch band that includes studio legends Danny Kortchmar and Dean Parks on guitars and Larry Taylor on bass. The stripped-down ensemble seamlessly navigates the album’s different moods, from the wry, loose “Ain’t That Something” written by Jordan, to the one cover on the project, the American Standard and romantic album closer “If I Give My Heart To You,” which was a hit for Doris Day in 1954.
Eric Clapton shows his respect for Solomon Burke by contributing not just one, but two songs to Like A Fire. Clapton penned the album’s contemplative title track, which finds Burke waxing philosophical and looking for answers, and shares writing credit with Burke on the heartfelt “Thank You,” which comes complete with an old-school recited breakdown.
Ben Harper’s urgent “A Minute To Rest And A Second To Pray” deals with facing life’s hardships with faith, in the vein of Curtis Mayfield's great 1970s urban political songs. Keb’ Mo’ wrote and lends vocals to the poignant “We Don’t Need It,” an emotional tale about the breadwinner of a family finding the courage to tell them he can’t afford to buy them the things they want, only to be met with love and understanding.
Jesse Harris, who wrote the Norah Jones smash hit “Don’t Know Why,” contributed two country-tinged songs, the buoyant ode to a relationship that can weather the opinions of outsiders that is “You And Me,” and “What Makes Me Think I Was Right,” about hurting and forgiving in a relationship.
“These song writers have been listening to their moms and dads and their grandparents, and to the old songs,” says Burke. “And they’re combining their messages with the truth, with reality and with the times we live in.”
Like A Fire serves as proof that one of American music’s towering icons remains a vital, inimitable force. “I’m on a journey, and that journey is music,” says Solomon Burke. “I want to give all I can to as many people as I can for as long as I can.”
Solomon Burke will be touring the U.S. and Europe in 2008 to support Like A Fire, including stops at the Bonnaroo and Telluride Festivals in June, and a performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on August 13. Like A Fire is Burke’s third recording for Shout! Factory, following 2006’s Nashville, which featured the Grammy-nominated track "Tomorrow Is Forever" with Dolly Parton, and 2005’s Grammy-nominated Make Do With What You Got.

Solomon Burke Like A Fire
1. Like A Fire (Eric Clapton)
2. We Don’t Need It (Keb’ Mo’)
3. The Fall (Steve Jordan/Danny Kortchmar/Meegan Voss)
4. A Minute To Rest And A Second To Pray Featuring Ben Harper (Ben Harper)
5. Ain’t That Something (Steve Jordan)
6. What Makes Me Think I Was Right (Jesse Harris)
7. Understanding (Steve Jordan/Meegan Voss)
8. You And Me (Jesse Harris)
9. Thank You (Eric Clapton/Solomon Burke)
10. If I Give My Heart To You (Jimmy Brewster/Jimmie Crane/Al Jacobs)

What are you going to Do in the Summer Time? Why, watch Shannon Noll, of course!

Shannon Noll will be featured by Major League Baseball starting July 21st. Check the former Australian Idol runner up out singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” by clicking the link below. The first single off his new album “Loud” is featured on MSG Networks and Ballparks all over the country.

Shannon Noll singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”:
http://dds.mlb.com/pickup/music/mle/mlbe_tmottbg_shannon_noll_1_400.wmv

Streaming audio for first single “Loud”:
http://shannonnollmusic.com/media/01%20Loud.mp3
Steaming video for “Loud”:
http://shannonnollmusic.com/media/LOUD-youtube.mov

Shannon Noll on Oprah’s “Big Give”:
http://www.oprah.com/about/oprahsbiggive/episodes/episodes_music.jhtml

With the release of Shannon Noll’s third album, Turn It Up, the charismatic singer, who in a few short years has become one of Australia’s most successful, iconic and loved performers is set to turn it up in every way…at every level.
“It’s a great title for many reasons,” says Shannon. “But for me it means I’m turning up the heat on my career”. After two multi platinum selling albums, eleven consecutive top ten singles, 4 ARIA nominations, five ARIA #1 Chart Awards and three consecutive MTV VMAs for Best Male Artist, Shannon’s career is already red hot. But Shannon Noll is not an artist ever content to rest on his laurels, and the twelve outstanding tracks on Turn It Up, nine of which Shannon co wrote, are proof that Shannon has taken his career to a whole new level.
“I really had the chance to be involved from the beginning with this album. I’ve learned a lot and grown a lot and I was able to put all that experience in,” says Shannon.
Prior to recording the album, Shannon spent an intense 8 week writing session in Australia, Los Angeles, Nashville and New York working with some of the industry’s top songwriters. It was a prolific and productive time for Shannon and out of the 40 songs that emerged; twelve were selected for the album.
Recorded earlier this year in Los Angeles and produced by multi-platinum, Grammy nominated producer Luke Ebbin (renowned for his work with Bon Jovi), the two decided the best way to capture Shannon’s phenomenal performing and singing talents was to take a fresh approach in the studio.
“We wanted to make this album 100% live,” says Shannon. “We didn’t want any programming this time. I would be in the studio when all the instruments and additional vocals were done live, so it was a much more natural and organic experience in the studio.”
The result is Shannon’s most dynamic album ever. From the chart topping first hit, Loud, to anthemic rockers like Way Out to heartfelt emotion in Breakdown and In Pieces to unabashed sentiments in soul stirring ballads like Sorry Is Just Too Late and Is You, every song is a standout showcase for Shannon’s unparalleled vocal abilities.
But it’s not just his singing. Turn It Up, really shows Shannon’s growth as a songwriter and true artist.
Shannon was particularly thrilled to work with one of rock music’s greatest talents, Richie Sambora. The two wrote the blistering power ballad, Sorry Is Just Too Late along with producer Luke Ebbin. Richie also played guitar on the track which is bound to become an instant rock classic. The rock legend has nothing but praise for Shannon. “There are very few current artists that embody the great classic vocalists, but have a contemporary flair,” says Richie. “Shannon is that artist.”
“Working with Richie was amazing, “says Shannon. “He had no preconceived ideas of where I came from. He just treated me and respected me as an equal.” On Everybody Needs A Little Help Shannon’s ability to inject pure and honest emotion will again stir hearts and souls. “I wanted to keep the impact going after Lift,” says Shannon. “With Everybody Needs A Little Help, I wanted to get that edge back in there, to say no matter what you’re going through, it’s OK. You don’t have to do it alone.”
Won’t Let You Go is also another song straight from the heart. “That song is dedicated to my wife,” says Shannon. “I spend a long time away from my family, but I know she is always there for me, and if she ever wanted me to come home from anywhere I would come straight back.”
Way Out is a track that has instant crowd pleasing appeal. “In a way it’s about the big questions we ask in life,” says Shannon. “I call it a life song, not a love song.”
“Like my live show, I really feel this album has it all, from the rockers to the more intimate songs…the whole range is there,” says Shannon. “I’m driven by my effect on people and whatever I put on the album has to be honest.”
Since his indelible impact on the Australian public in 2004 with the release of his debut album, Shannon now finds himself in the best place he’s ever been with new Australian and US management. “It’s really taken a lot of pressure off me. I now find myself in a nurturing arena where I don’t have to worry,” he says. “I can just concentrate on the singing.”
While it’s inevitable a talent like Shannon is bound to take the next step onto the world stage, he remains firmly committed to his Australian fans. “Australia is the number one market for me,” says Shannon. “I’m so lucky the public has given me success and a career and that will always be first and foremost to me.”
Turn It Up is sure to crank up the volume on Shannon’s career. Not only does it reflect Shannon’s continuing evolution as an artist, a songwriter and a supreme vocalist, it’s bound to take its place as one of the finest Australian albums in recent times.

Shannon Noll assets: http://www.specialopsmedia.com/assets/ShannonNoll/Assets.zip

The official Shannon Noll site: http://www.shannonnollmusic.com

Preferred Retail Link: http://www.amazon.com/Turn-Up-Shannon-Noll/dp/B000UCH600/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1206054039&sr=1-8