Project M finalist Anna Laube will be playing Ride the Drive this weekend along with Clovis Mann, Anna Wang, Mark Harrod and Anna Wang & the Oh Boys. If you don't know Anna's sweet blend of smooth vocals and perfectly crafted Americana flourishes...do yourself a favor and download her song Beautiful Boy below. Mark Harrod also sent along some downloads. Check out his smooth as silk vocals below as well.
Beautiful Boy - Anna LaubeMaggie - Mark HarrodUltimate Currency - Mark Harrod
Bobby Long w/Mike Droho
High Noon Saloon, Feb. 14th, 8PM, 18+, $12, more info at trueendeavors.comStyle: Folk/Rock
Musical Influences: John Hurt, Jimi Hendrix, Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath), Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, Elliot Smith
Bobby Long is a British songwriter who started playing guitar/cello and writing songs around the age of 18. He played open mic clubs in London and self-released several albums in 2009. He sprung to fame when Robert Pattinson performed his song "Let Me Sign" in the 2008 "Twilight" film. Long signed with ATO Records in 2010 and just released his debut recording A Winter Tale on February 1st. On February 3rd, he was on The Tonight Show w/Jay Leno. Here is his song "Dead & Done" below:
Here is a free download of his song "Penance Fire Blues" off of the new album:
http://www.spinner.com/2011/01/31/bobby-long-penance-fire-blues-free-mp3-download/
You can check more music by him on his myspace page. You should check him out live at the High Noon Saloon on Monday, February 14th at 8PM. It will be an amazing show!
Blitzen Trapper with Pearly Gate MusicHigh Noon Saloon, 8:30PM, Sept. 29th | $14, more info @ trueendeavors.com
Blitzen Trapper blitzed (clever, I know) to the scene roughly ten years ago with their interesting blend of folk and pop, cultivated to produce 6 albums, the latest one titled Destroyer of the Void was released in June of this year.
You have to check out this video of their song "Black River Killer." Be warned, it does contain some graphic imagery.  But, it's the coolest video I have seen in a LONG time. Click here for it.
Here's a free download for "Dragon Song" which is on their new album and the demo of "Heaven and Earth."
Blitzen Trapper has a unique blend of indie and rock 'n roll. Their latest record conjures up Neil Young and Robert Plant, but Blitzen Trapper needs to be their own. They should focus on their success in songs like "Furr."
According to an interview with the website Inflatable Ferret, Blitzen Trapper's lead singer Eric Earley has been playing music since the age of 3 so this will be a show that has some good musicians. Wednesday night they will be playing at the ultra cool High Noon Saloon on Washington Avenue in Madison. The show starts at 8:30. See ya there.
Musical Influences:
Bob Dylan, Neil Young (they have been known to do covers of his work during shows), Sonic Youth, and (obviously) The Beatles.
Why should you go?
It will be nice to drink a beer/beverage of choice at a cool venue and enjoy a good show.
When someone at work asks you what you did last night, you actually have something to say besides, "Oh, I watched 6 re-runs of the Fresh Prince of Bel Air."
They are a cool band and will play some decent songs.
Here's another link for a free download:
http://subpop-public.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/audio/6609.mp3
If I learned one thing from Saturday night, it is that Brandi Carlile is best appreciated live. While I love her albums, videos and the like, none of those things can quite give you the sense of the type of performer she really is. Carlile has an amazing stage presence and you can tell how involved she gets in her performances. She just really loves to play and that feeling emanated out of her on Saturday and washed over the entire audience. Download "Dying Day"
Her show had a great variety and pace. Since she had played Madison not too long ago, she made a point to play a different set than she had previous, which her returning fans were grateful for. The story, Turpentine, and Dreams were all accounted for but she also snuck in some surprises. Switching from an all out rock atmosphere to softer ballads and back kept the audience on their toes the whole time. Carlile snuck in a couple of covers including a heart breaking version of Over the Rainbow, a solo of Alphavilleâs 80âs hit Forever Young, and she paid homage to the late great Johnny Cash. She transitioned seamlessly from Closer to You to a Beatles cover. Now growing up with a parent who is borderline obsessed with the Beatles (yes dad, Iâm talking to you) has made me a huge fan and a harsh critic of those who cover their material. Brandiâs version of Iâve Just Seen a Face however, was brilliant. It would have made my papa proud.
While the whole show was remarkable the part that stood out to me the most was something that I have never ever seen a band do before. They played a completely unplugged rendition of âDying Dayâ. I thought that was a pretty chancy move considering the size of the Barrymore but as Brandi said, âThatâs what these rooms were made for.â Utilizing the natural acoustics of the room, her voice carried to every row and it made for an incredible feeling throughout the audience.
Not only was the music amazing but Carlile really made an effort to bond with the audience. Many times she told us what a great group we were and her supporters showed their appreciation with an ear-splitting cheer every time. Instead of the usual one or two word exclamation between songs, Carlile told funny anecdotes and shared some great personal stories which only made the crowd more connected to her. At one point she got the whole audience to act as a âThree part Madison choirâ. With her interest in her fans, itâs no wonder they hold her in such high esteem.
If you missed Brandi this time around, I strongly urge you to go see her the next time you have a chance. She truly is an amazing performer and listening to her albums or watching a patchy video of her live performances just isnât going to cut it.
-Emily Cartwright
The Gaslight AnthemMajestic Theatre, 7:30PM, $20, more info
It may seem crazy, but the Gaslight Anthem has only been together for about 3 years with their debut album "Sink or Swim."  They are coming off their recently successful album "American Slang" that was released in June. You can check out their song "The Diamond Church Street Choir" below.
The Diamond Church Street Choir (click to download)
If you want to read Triple M's previous review of that album, click here.  This band is incredibly good. They have a talent that mixes folk with punk. It's like Bruce Springsteen fell in love with the Ramones, or something like that. Their Majestic show will most likely feature a lot of stuff off the new album, so it is definitely something to buy. They have a lively sound that will definitely keep an audience engaged. So come on down this weekend on Sunday to the Majestic Theatre at 7:30 PM at 115 King Street. It will be a fun show.
Why should you check them out?
The Majestic is a cool locale and Wisconsin's oldest theatre
Brandi Carlile w/ Katie Herzig
8pm, Saturday, September 18 - SOLD OUT
Barrymore Theatre, more info @ trueendeavorsblog.com
Once in awhile you find a song that strikes you instantaneously and you know that you're hearing something special. This is exactly what happened to me when I was introduced to Brandi Carlileâs single The Story. It hit me like a wrecking ball. Hear her powerhouse vocals for yourself in her single Dying Day, which perfectly epitomizes Brandiâs kick ass attitude and tender soul:
Download "Dying Day"
I thought to myself, this girl has raw talent, no question. Iâve wanted to see her perform live ever since and luckily Carlile and her band will be appearing at the Barrymore Theater in Madison this Saturday night!
The singer/songwriter is a native of Ravensdale, WA and like most Washingtonian musicians, she began her career by showcasing her songs at local Seattle hang outs. Then in 2003 Carlile caught the attention of music heavyweights Dave Matthews Band which intensified her popularity. She grabbed a record deal with Columbia Records and released her first self-titled album to general approval.  However, it was her second album The Story that skyrocketed her to star status and  garnered her acclaim from critics and fans alike. Ever since, her work has been enjoying the praises of the musical community and has been featured in a number of prominent television shows and ads.
To me, itâs not really a mystery what makes Carlile so special. In a world of bubble gum and fake electronics, her music has a refreshingly natural sound.  Itâs a mash up of a number of different basic backgrounds;  a little blues, a little folk, a little country all with a rock twist. Itâs sort of a mix of Ray Lamontagne and John Mayer with a dash of the Dixie Chicks. It all works.
The only thing to pair with such a unique sound is, of course, killer vocals which is undoubtedly Carlileâs best selling point. No matter if itâs a sweet caress or a forcefull authority that will knock you sideways, it never fails to impress. The girl can scale octaves back and forth without breaking a sweat and it gives her songs a unique quality.
Feeling it? Then make sure you check out the rest of Brandiâs latest album Give up the Ghost. If you donât want to miss an incredible event, be sure to hit up the Barrymore this weekend and see her live show (tickets are now sold out.) And donât be surprised if you leave in total amazement.
-Emily Cartwright
Tomorrow evening is the finale for Project M, the singer-songwriter competition and reality show through Triple M. The Brink Lounge at 701 East Washington is the place to be tomorrow (Thursday 6/17) at 7pm. Project M began with 10 contestants and week by week has slowly dwindled down to the final three contestants. The final three include Keefe Klug, Anna Laube, and Jimmie Linville.
All three contestants will perform a thirty minute set with the big announcement to follow. Crowd response will be a factor in the decision, so make sure to make it to the Brink Lounge and show support for your favorite contestant. Past and present Project M contestants and judges will be in attendance.
The three contestants who remain have all displayed their songwriting skills throughout the competition and these talents will be on showcase tomorrow evening. If unfamiliar, or familiar and a fan, here is some information and free downloads from the three remaining contestants.
Keefe Klug is from Madison, WI and has been playing guitar since the age on 13. Keefe has a desire to win this competition because he wants to introduce the Madison area to his style of music while developing a strong relationship within the Madison music community. For more information on Keefe here is a link to his Project M page. Below is a free download of his track "Two Wrongs."
Anna Laube is also from Madison, WI and credits here great music upbringing to her parents as they played great music in the house throughout her childhood. She began playing piano at the age of three and continued to learn a whole arrangement of instruments as time went on. Anna wants to win because of her love for music and the fact that Triple M is a great radio station and she would love to hear Gabby put her music into regular rotation. For more information visit Anna's Project M page here and check out her free downloadable track below.
Jimmie Linville is from Baraboo, WI and has been playing songs for four years. Jimmie Linville influences include Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Ray LaMontagne and Sufjan Stevens. He wants to win Project M because the $500 gift card to Good 'n' Loud sounds perfect for a new PA for his band Daniel and the Lion while meeting and getting to know members within the Madison music scene. Here is a link to Jimmie's Project M page and below is a free download of his song "Tracing Circles."
4/26 - Free Energy w/ The New Loud, 8pm
High Noon Saloon, $10, 18+, more info
Free Energy is a 5-piece indie-pop-rock band based in Philadelphia. Free Energy shares similarities with bands such as: Thin Lizzy, Cheap Trick, Boston, Fleetwood Mac & Bruce Springsteen. They have recently released their first album "Stuck on Nothing." band website
4/27 - OTT w/ special guests TBA, 9pm
Majestic Theatre, $10, more info
OTT is a British record producer and DJ. He has previously worked with artists such as Sinead O'Connor and Brian Eno.Ott on MySpace
4/28 - Jakob Dylan w/ Neko Case and Kelly Hogan, 8pm
Pabst Theater, Milwaukee, $25, more info
Jakob Dylan followed his father Bob Dylan's footsteps in becoming a singer-songwriter. Dylan formally with The Wallflowers has recently released a new album titled "Women and Country." band website
4/28 - Yeasayer w/ Sleigh Bells, 9pm
Majestic Theatre, $13 cover SOLD OUT, more info
The experimental electronic-rock sounds of Yeasayer invade Madison as they take the stage at the Majestic Theatre. Performing with Sleigh Bells, this is sure to be a show for any indie-rock fan.band website
4/29 - Michael McDermott w/ John Craigie and Marty Finkel, 7pm
The Brink Lounge, $10, more info
Chicago-based singer-songwriter Michael McDermott's show is "Pat's Picks," which means Pat Gallagher get to pick the set-list for the night. Look for some old, some new, some you know, others you may not know and even Michael covering Gloria Gaynor!Here are some free .mp3 downloads also!
4/29 - Monterey Jazz Festival On Tour, 7:30pm
The Capitol Theater in Overture Center, $22-$52, more info
Members of the Monterey Jazz Festival are touring the country sharing their amazing sound. Here is more information on this year's Monterey Jazz Festival website
4/29 - LOS CAMPESINOS! w/ Special Guest Cymbals Eat Guitars, 9pm
Majestic Theatre, $16, more info
Formed in Wales, the seven-piece indie-pop group first grabbed attention on MySpace. Despite the band forming in Wales, none of its members are actually Welsh. band website
5/2 - Chris Pureka w/ Peasant, 8pm
High Noon Saloon, $12 cover or $10 advance, more info
Chris is an acoustic singer-songwriter from Northampton, Massachusetts. She began writing songs at the age of eight and began playing the guitar at 16.
Bloodshot Records is a great independent record company out of Chicago, that features a lot of music I just love! According to their website it's the "good stuff nestled in the dark, nebulous cracks where punk, country, soul, pop, bluegrass, blues and rock mix and mingle and mutate."
They recently made a whole album of that "good stuff" available for free on amazon.com. All of the songs aren't necessarily brand new, but they may be new to you!
They range from a slow ballad from Alejandro Escovedo, to rockers from the Bottle Rockets and Ha Ha Tonka to upbeat alt-country from Old 97's.
Other artists on the 12 song sampler include Rosie Flores, Exene Cervenka, and the Scotland Yard Gospel Choir. >>>Get the free sampler album here. >>>Find out more about Bloodshot Records here. Right now they've got a sale going on with many albums priced at $5 or less.
--Kitty Dunn
Atlas Sound is the solo project from Bradford Cox of indie buzz band Deerhunter. Cox's first solo record, Let The Blind Lead Those Who Can See But Cannot Feel was released in '08.
After reading a Beck interview while in the sixth grade, Cox learned he could use the family's karaoke machine as a multi-track device.
Atlas Sound is Cox continuing to explore the process, his way of using "ideas I can't make work with a five piece band." Â On this new record he's created an intimate space you'll keep going back to.
Parallax the third release from Atlas Sound is out November 8th on 4AD. Grab a free download of Flagstaffhere.
Madison's summer music festival season kicks off this weekend with Brat Fest at Willow Island, where there are more bands than you can shake a bratwurst at! Check out the Brat Fest website to plan your itinerary.
Next up is the Marquette...
John Fogerty is making the talk show rounds this week, stopping in to see David Letterman Tuesday and Wednesday, and the ladies of "The View" on Thursday.
He's promoting his new album, "Wrote a Song For Everyone" which comes out next Tuesday...
It's a miracle that both Jonathan and KItty wanted to hear Barry Manilow this morning. They were not alone. Plenty of Fanilow's called in to vote yes. One caller claimed to have seen Manilow in concert 25 times!
The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, it is another gorgeous Monday, fit for another great show at the Crystal Corner tonight.
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We just received word of what this weeks twist is, and...oh boy. We need to take our "signature song" and cut it to only 2:30 without going over. Amberstein does not simply play 2:30 versions of our songs...so this could be interesting.
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In 1984, Rockwell rose to number 2 for 3 weeks in 1984 with "Somebody's Watching Me." The backup singer for the song was Michael Jackson. How did Rockwell get Jackson to help him? Well, Rockwell's real name is Kennedy William Gordy and he...
Have you heard the song "Rumble and Sway" yet on Triple M?
The singer sounds like a raspy blues dude who's definitely been around the block a few times....but surprisingly, Jamie N. Commons is only 23 years old!
He was born in England, but...
