Music Spotlight On: Josh Jove Band — Blues at its Best

There’s no formula for what makes a performer uniquely great, but I sure do know it when I see it. And I see it in Josh Jove. He fronts a blues band in Los Angeles, and if my prediction is correct, they’re on their way to massive success. He started playing guitar at age 11, and he’s self-taught. If you see him perform live, you’ll understand just how impressive that last detail is. According to Jove, he practices an “embarrassing amount of hours per day,” which isn’t surprising. He’s damn good. Plus, he’s one of the nicest, most humble guys I know. Have I also mentioned he’s easy on the eyes? Listen below to hear a demo of his blues band cover JJ Cale’s “The Woman That Got Away.” The demo was recorded at Brick & Mortar Recording in Los Angeles.

Music Spotlight On: Sean Hayes

I don’t know much about Sean Hayes, but I know he’s good. I discovered his album, Alabama Chicken, on my Brett Dennen Pandora station, and I am eternally grateful for it. He’s released four albums, and his most recent is called Flowering Spade. I can’t find much information about the guy given that most interviews with him involve excessive questions about his love for the banjo. I’m just gonna have to fix the problem and commission him for an interview. Watch two of his videos below.

Music Spotlight On: Alabama Shakes

Finding a new band to love is akin to discovering a twenty dollar bill in the pocket of my jeans. I didn’t know it was there, but I sure am glad to have it. Today’s discovery is Alabama Shakes. They originated from Athens, Alabama, and their members include: Brittany Howard (lead vocals), Heath Fogg (guitar), Zac Cockrell (bass), and Steve Johnson (drums). Judging from their media attention, I’m late in the game. Their album debuts April 8, 2012, and you can get a sneak peak here. And if that’s not enough, they’re performing on Letterman on April 12. Watch below to see their video for “Hold On.”

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]

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!