Prediction: Vicci Martinez Will Win ‘The Voice’

Since I have a very large ego and I pride myself on predictions, I’d like to take this moment to predict that the very talented Vicci Martinez will win ‘The Voice.’ I’d tell you why, but perhaps you should just watch her perform Florence + The Machine’s ‘Dog Days Are Over’ and judge for yourself.

Music Spotlight: Lykke Li

I’ve recently discovered my affinity for Swedish musicians.  First, Erik Hassle, and now Lykke Li.  Sure, they have much different musical styles, but perhaps Sweden is churning out some really good musicians.  As per my usual routine, I discovered Lykke Li on Pandora through my Florence + The Machine station.  I then went to Grooveshark and listened to her entire Youth Novels album, which is incredible.  She has yet to achieve mainstream success in the United States, with the exception of her appearance on Last Call With Carson Daly in 2009 (yes, Carson Daly is still alive) and a performance at the 2009 Lollapalooza Music Festival.  Listen to her music below.  I recommend Little Bit.

[soundcloud]http://soundcloud.com/lykkeli/sets/lykke-li[/soundcloud]

Music Spotlight On: Erik Hassle

Erik Hassle

I’m always looking for new music. I dig through Pandora and Grooveshark looking for an artist that I won’t immediately get tired of. This week, Erik Hassle joins Kate Nash and Florence + The Machine as my new find. He’s from Sweden, and his debut album, Hassle, reached #2 on the Swedish pop charts. He actually sounds a bit like Maroon 5, which I regret to admit, considering I find Adam Levine to be incredibly annoying. In fact — the less I know about Hassle the better — because everyone annoys me eventually. I’ve attached some of his songs below for your enjoyment. I recommend Don’t Bring Flowers.

Kate Nash — Music Recommendation

I’m always searching for new, non-mainstream music — and it’s no easy task.  While listening to Florence + The Machine on Pandora, I discovered the very gifted Kate Nash.  Nash’s lyrics are so literal, I find myself amazed that she gets away with it in such an effortless way.  Alright — I just vomited at my music review.  Clearly I wasn’t born to write for Rolling Stone.  How about this — she’s fucking brilliant (and yes mother, sometimes I curse).  Nash was born in Ireland and grew up in London.  Her incredible album, Made of Bricks, was number one in the UK and went platinum.  I’ve posted two songs below.  Foundations was a huge hit, and if you’ve ever been in a failed relationship, I would encourage you to listen to it.  It’s a post-breakup-anthem.  The second song I posted, Merry Happy, didn’t chart well, though I think it’s one of the strongest songs on the album.  Enjoy!

Music Recommendation: Florence + The Machine

When I first watched the Eat Pray Love trailer, I became so obsessed with the title song, I immediately Shazammed my television screen (yes, I’m that tech-savvy).  I discovered the song is Dog Days Are Over, by Florence + The Machine.  It never occurred to me that the the entire album would be just as great as the single.  I assure you it is.   If you don’t believe me, go to Grooveshark, and listen to the all of the Lungs album — I promise you won’t be disappointed.  The “group” is actually composed of one member, British indie rock vocalist — Florence Welch — with other artists backing up her voice.  Listen to two songs below.