Perfection is an all too often sought after commodity. The perfect female musician would have to possess the songcrafting skills of Carole King, the vocal range of Ella Fitzgerald and the longevity of Madonna. Maybe perfect would be a bad term for that search, as it isn't a search at all. For all of music's best and beyond, look no further than Alicia Keys.

From the opening notes of "Songs In A Minor", Alicia Keys has redefined all preconceived boundaries of what is possible in a career. Her latest album, "The Element of Freedom" simply establishes her as the best artist to emerge in music in the last decade. Many thought Alicia Keys might have peaked with her recent duet on Jay-Z's "Empire State of Mind," but that simply was not the case. On the contrary, she was just getting warmed up.

The album's first single, "Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart" is already climbing the pop charts, sure to hit number one. It encapsulates the album's overall theme, making it through lost love, and finding yourself better off at the other end. It is one of many tracks sure to empower both men and women who have had to leave a bad situation before it got worse.

My personal favorite song has got to be "Un-Thinkable(I'm Ready)." It tackles the subject of getting started with a new relationship when doubt and questions surround you and yours. "If we do the unthinkable, would it make us look crazy? If you ask me, I'm ready." I can actually relate pretty well to that lyric, and I absolutely appreciate Ms. Keys for nailing an emotional point on the head.

Being born in 1976, I can honestly say that, in my lifetime, there has not been a better all around talent than Alicia Keys. Her tireless spirit and love of music translates to works of art each time she releases an album. I believe that years from now, "The Element of Freedom" will be viewed as her finest hour in a career that may well be just hitting it's apex. Give your soul an early Valentines' gift, and pick up "The Element of Freedom" today.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

One of the tougher genres of music to find success in would be jazz. It takes an incredible amount of dedication, commitment, and respect for the art form in order to construct an album that finds it's way to a welcoming audience. One band that should have a fairly easy time finding receptive fans would be Alt Tal.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Amy Clawson is the next big thing in country music. She has the voice of an established superstar, and the soul of a pioneer. In each of the tracks on "The Woman I Am", it is clear that Ms. Clawson is a force to be reckoned with on the country charts for decades to come, and it should be one heck of a ride.

Not since Faith Hill's "Take Me As I Am" album has a female country release packed so much ounch. There is not a weak track throughout the album, and it is clear that Amy Clawson is a fan of music herself, as she made a point to not disappoint her listeners, creating a sound worth sharing for generations to come.

Of all the cuts on this instant classic, I'll take "Rainin' In Vegas" as my personal favorite. It blends top notch instrumentation with the stellar lyrics coming forth from Clawson's voice, soon to be that of a worldwide sensation.

It isn't often one gets to see a star on the way up. Do yourself a favor, and pick up a copy of Amy Clawson's "The Woman I Am". She may well be the biggest thing in music at this time next year.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Great pop music will always be in fashion. Simple, easy to follow lyrics and beautiful voices have translated in massive sales for pop stars for several generations. The latest pop princess to catch the nation's attention is Angel Taylor, and her reign has only just begun.

Blending her natural talents with top shelf production, "Love Travels" is a sure fire hit maker. Featuring at least five tracks likely to climb the digital download charts, the album is a solid collection of radio friendly numbers that keep it light and aim to bring smiles to the faces of the listener. An easy comparison to make would be with pop star Colbie Caillat. I have a feeling that at next year's awards show's Ms. Taylor's name just might be called once or twice.

Of all the songs on "Love Travels," I'll pick "Make Me Believe" as the best. It paints a picture of emotion and feelings that any college student would be likely to relate to. Sometimes actions are needed when words just don't cut it, and this track tells that tale with precision.

Angel Taylor is a songbird just starting to take flight. I look forward to hearing her albums come out for years to come. Take a ride on Angel Taylor's "Love Travels" today.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Honest country music speaks from the heart and tells the story of the artist. Casey Dilworth is just that; an honest artist with a story to tell, and a gift that makes his story worth listening to. "That The Way It goes" is a great American country album, and Casey Dilworth is a terrific storyteller.

There is no more authentic genre of music than country western, and Dilworth is real to the bone. His stories take you back to the days of Hank Williams and Woody Guthrie, of artists who told the tales of so many forgotten souls struggling to make it along life's path. The best message to be gained from "That's The Way It Goes" is that we all have a hard road to walk, but we are never alone.

I find it hard to judge art when it comes from the heart. Casey Dilworth's latest is simply a pure gift from an artist to the world. I feel that anyone with a little trouble making it from month to month, without any real hope in sight might feel a little bit better after listening to this album.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Christine Amanda has a great voice, and a special gift to share. She loves the Lord, and she counts her blessings daily. Anyone with a gift such as hers is a fool not to share it, and she definitely shares the wealth of her voice with her latest release, "Teach me How To Dream."

While blending Biblical messages with a modern sound, Amanda invites her audience into her own special world of promise and hope. Her music is a welcome change of pace from the cynical and dreary hits of the day. Rather than dwell on what's going wrong, the music of Christine Amanda lifts you up, and reminds you that things can always get better.

"Without Walls" is just one example of the talent and power in Amanda's voice. She is an artist of epic proportions, and her love of her craft shows throughout the album, a must for any fan of modern gospel music.

The world would be better off with a few more smiles. I honestly feel that Christine Amanda might be the cure for the winter blues. Pick up a copy of "Teach Me How To Dream" today.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

There is something to be said for modern jazz. One school of thought dictates that the new releases in this genre pale in comparison to the classics of genrations past. It takes a strong will to put forth a great jazz album these days, and Dan Adler has done just that with "All Things Familiar."

A student of the craft in the best sense of the word, Dan Adler takes a page from the book of jazz greats and writes his own chapter. His assembled musicians compliment him very well, and the result is a well produced musical shot in the arm. From start to finish, "All Things Familiar" is clearly the result of accomplished artists looking to put forth an effort comparable to the all time greats.

The closing track, "Bird's Idea", is a fitting end to the album. It combines all the crucial elements of jazz with the respect all great artists have for their audience. An absolutely seamless entry into any IPod jazz folder.

Sometimes, music just works. It can clear the head and unlock the imagination. With "All Things Familiar", Dan Adler has delivered a gift to the musical world; the best of new jazz with props paid to those who paved the way.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

There is something special about bluegrass music. The sound of the accoustic instruments, the feeling in the lyrics, it just takes me back to a simpler time in music when song crafting was more en vogue than production tricks. A great example of new bluegrass is "Frostbite", the lastest album from banjo legend Dan Menzone.

Authenticity can be hard to find in the music world these days, and thank goodness there is nothing fake about Menzone and his talented band. They work together to unwrap a musical gift for the listener, reaching back to the genre's roots and delivering a modern spin on this classic American art form.

"Pallet On Your Floor" is my top pick for the album. It spins a story of a man whose audience depends on his level of success. "Come all you good time friends of mine. Tell me where did you go when I only had a dime?" Hard to imagine anyone who can't relate to that.

From start to finish, "Frostbite" is a new classic in bluegrass music. It would make a fine addition to any diverse music collection. Let Dan Menzone tell you a tale or two today.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Some of my fondest musical memories are from church ensembles and choirs. The way the groups could deliver God's message with such passion and beuatiful voices always made me smile. Glory 2 Glory are no different. They deliver their art with care and skill, and leave the audience yearning for more.

"We've Won The Victory" is the latest release from this act. It delivers substantial amounts of soul and purpose with each track, and the end result of the album is clear. Glory 2 Glory love what they do, and live to serve Jesus.

I'll pick "Saved In the Nick of Time" as the best song on the album. It perfectly paints a picture of the experience many of us have had, in barely surviving life's traumas with nobody to thank but the Almighty. It is refreshing to hear musicians simply telling it like it is.

There will never be a better time to catch up on your prayers than right now. With most of the world either at war, poverty-stricken or disease ravaged, it is clear that we might not have too much time left here. Get right with God, and let Glory 2 Glory help you find Him.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Take a little bit of gospel, a little bit of blues, and a whole lot of Southern Rock, mix it together, and you've got The Gospel Outlaws. These guys might be the best thing to happen to music in years.

"Wanted" is an instant classic in the field of gospel/rock. These folks can have the soul of a choir and the chops of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Each cut on the album was clearly the result of caring artists who have their listeners in mind when releasing their work. The only thing brighter than the messages on "Wanted" is the future of the band down the road.

Of the album's 14 songs, I enjoyed "Right Way To Go" the best. Anyone who's been faced with difficult choices on which path to take in their lives will appreciate this track, a genuine heart warmer, and likely hit on the gospel charts.

Life isn't always easy. If you can make it through the day without blowing up, sometimes that is all you can hope for. Let "Wanted" by The Gospel Outlaws help you unwind after your next rough day at the office. You'll be glad you did.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

There is no better way to warm up on a cold winter day than with a hot cup of coffee and as great jazz record. As far as the coffee goes, you're on your own; the music would be amply handled by the GR Project's tribute to Chillida, "Sculptures in Time."

Smooth as silk, the GR Project artfully weave in and out of timeless jazz themes, at times conjuring images of Miles Davis in SoHo or Coltrane in The Big Easy. The five musicians who make up the GR Project are all cut from the same cloth as the all-time greats in their genre, exhibiting pride in their work by releasing an album that speaks just as loudly to their skills as their place in history.

"Ainara" is likely to be a fast riser on the jazz charts. It's hypnotic flow blends smoothly with the sounds of artisans at their best. Catching this act live would be an awesome experience.

Give "Sculptures in Time" a listen the next time you're shopping for jazz. I have no doubt you'll be just as pleased with it as I was.
Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Fame can disappear as quickly as it's grasped on to. Those lucky enough to grab the attention of the public should make full use of that attention. After hearing Heidi Montag's "Superficial" album I am certain of two things: that it would be great if Heidi would be more selective in her Twitter posts, and that the girl can make herself a pretty solid dance album.

In the style of Paula Abdul, Montag makes no apologies in putting out a collection of dance music. The beats are sure to keep people moving on the club floors nationwide, and the lyrics are a safe bet to take up yearbook space this spring.

The album's platinum bar in the rough is "Blackout." Every once in a while two people get together and have the world struggling to not look or talk about them. It's the private world Heidi & Mr. Pratt enjoy that she sings abouts with the line, "Leave the rest of them in the dark. No one has to know where we are."

Not too long ago, pop albums that got people dancing ruled the world. It wouldn't shock me at all if Heidi Montag has a career for years as part of the new pop revival.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

In the more than two decades that flautist Holly Hofmann has been on the scene, she has recorded numerous CDs as leader, more often than not for Capri. Though pianist Bill Cunliffe has been active slightly longer than she, he has recorded much more frequently, many times as leader but also as sideman with Buddy Rich, Gerald Wiggins, the Clayton brothers, and others. Both classically trained, Hofmann and Cunliffe have recorded together off-and-on for fifteen years, often as a duo. Their new release includes four duet performances, plus four trio selections, with a different instrumentalist accompanying them on each: violinist Regina Carter, drummer Alvester Garnett, clarinetist Ken Peplowski, and trumpeter Terell Stafford. Cunliffe composed four of the eight pieces; Hofmann, one.

Classically trained musicians performing jazz sometimes lack emotion, do not swing adequately, and fail to take chances because of their natural inclination to play "correctly" and subordinate themselves to the score and conductor. Even though what might be called their formalism (in technique, and in playing compositions and not just blowing) is obvious throughout, Hofmann and Cunliffe interact engagingly, improvise well, convey emotion, and swing when appropriate. They are most forceful toward the conclusion of Burton Lane’s "Too Late Now," where Hofmann, close to overblowing, plays grittily.

Attractively as they play as a duo, the leaders seem inspired by their guests, Stafford in particular. This trio’s performance of Hofmann’s "Three’s Company" includes fiery solo interaction. Using only brushes on Cunliffe’s "Sweet Andy," Garnett introduces the tune, provides fills, and propels the leaders. The trio performance, with Carter, of Billy Strayhorn’s "Star-Crossed Lovers" is sheer beauty. Cunliffe’s "Reunion," with Peplowski, largely requires the playing of a written score, which means that solos are of secondary importance.

On Three’s Company, Hofmann and Cunliffe create attractive music while respecting compositions and exploring their nuances.


B. F.    

Tranquility is getting harder and harder to find. With a new year upon us, and the hustle and bustle of the holidays behind us, now is the perfect time to relax, kick your feet up, and escape into a world of beautiful music. The soundtrack for such an endeavour would be Jane Johnson's "An Old Story."

After listening to this album a few times, I literally had no idea what my major drama of the day was. It completely removed me from the stress and day-to-day grind of life and wrapped me up in a warm blanket of melodies and sound. This release would be perfect for new parents, a virtual guarantee for a good night's sleep for the young and old alike.

Of all the tracks on "An Old Story", I enjoyed "Somewhere Tonight" the most. It seemed to capture the perfect mix of musical flow with ethereal sounds, reminding me of early Enya recordings.

While the holidays are over, there is no bad time of year to give the gift of heartwarming music. Surprise somebody with the blessings of Jane Johnson's "An Old Story" today.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

If you're like me, you prefer an album with real guitar, drums, and lyrics. Right about now, it seems there's quite a demand for music fabricated in a production studio, and authentic rock isn't getting much airplay. That doesn't matter to me much, because I'll take an actual rock album over the latest ringtone packed concoction from the knob turners any day of the week. With that being said, allow me to share the latest from Jason Isbell.

"Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit" is all that's great about American rock music. He is a throwback to the 80's, evoking memories of Springsteen, Bryan Adams and ZZ Top. He takes time on his lyrics, telling stories that the average person can relate to, but with talent that is anything but common.

"Cigarettes and Wine" is pure gold. A song made for slow dancing a half hour before bar close, it's all about finding someone that you're still thinking about years after you've said goodbye. "She smelled like cigarettes & wine, but she kept me happy all the time. I know it ain't mutual, but it's the God's honest truth. She lives down inside of me still, rolled up like a twenty dollar bill. She left me alone with these pills, and the last of my youth."

It's not always easy to find good music in parts of the country. Some communities don't have independent music stores and are limited to retail outlets. It might take a drive, but consider your nearest independent music store your musical MD, and a dose of Jason Isbell your prescription.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Jon Gomm is an English singer-songwriter and virtuoso performer, using one acoustic guitar to create drum sounds, bass lines and melodies simultaneously. His songs draw on a range of influences and styles, including blues and soul. Michael Hedges is an important source of inspiration. To date he has two solo albums and has toured full-time since 2004.

I received Leeds-based guitarist / singer-songwriter Jon Gomm’s NEW CD “Don’t Panic”. I have been listening to his album for a few weeks now and it really grows on you. If you like Acoustic Guitar in the style of Dave Matthews and / or John Mayer w/ a twist, then this music will definitely be very enticing to your aural senses. However, I do hear many more influences in his fabulous music and awesome guitar playing. I hear influences of funk to heavy hard rock music being played in his engaging, aggressive and percussive way. Jon Gomm is definitely an energizing personality on his guitar. I went back to his MySpace bio to see “what’s up” and as I suspected, his influence are far and vast with such other great innovative virtuoso musicians and recording artists…

Check out some of these cats that have help shape and Influenced Jon’s music: Michael Hedges, Robert Johnson, Radiohead, Steve Vai, Miles Davis, Joni Mitchell, The Beatles (particularly Paul), Jennifer Batten, Lamb, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, Nick Harper, Bukka White, The Screaming Headless Torsos, Steve Earle, John Coltrane, Jimi Hendrix, Nuno, Rage Against the Machine, Stevie Wonder, Nirvana, Prince, Steve Earl, Tommy Emmanuel, Preston Reed, Taj Mahal, Jeff Buckley, Robben Ford, Joe Satriani, Goldie, Keb Mo, Kings X, Soundgarden, Earth Wind and Fire, Richie Kotzen, Angelo Paladino, Scott Henderson, Blur, Dolly Parton, Bjork, Stanley Jordan and a lot of others.

As I listen to Jon’s Album you can’t help but not get into his uncanny grooves and warm but rich vocals. Jon also covers a wide variety of music and genres. He can go from Blues to Rock, and then to some Jazz-Fusion to Country music. This acoustic maestro is totally a one man’s melting pot of forged sound. As I read in the liner notes, there are no overdubs on this challenging but pleasurable music. Like another Hedges disciple, Andy Mckee "Drifting", Jon similarly uses just his guitar to treat one to a miniature symphonic experience.

Overall, I give this CD 4 STARZ because Jon Gomm’s cd “Don’t Panic” is not only wonderful to listen too, it is sonically interesting w/ each new song probing the boundaries of music’s never ending NEW Frontiers


Scott Thomas www.guitarz-for-ever.com www.jongomm.com    

Kenny & Leah are a classic example of a duo working together to create a gift for their audience. Their passion for creativity is all too apparent in their latest release, "April in Paris." Any fan of vintage Sonny & Cher will enjoy this album, a throwback to the musical age where duets dominated the charts.

Leah McCoy Soderblom has a voice sent straight from heaven. Evoking shades of Carly Simon, she handles each track on the album with the flawless touch of a master sculptor, taking songs that many may have forgotten, and reshaping them into new classics of modern soul music.

"Moon River" would be my choice for top song. It establishes Soderblom's voice as brilliant while leaving space for solid insturmental work. This would be an ideal track for an anniversary dance.

In short, "April in Paris" is a hit, and Kenny & Leah will likely have plenty more down the road.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

In the early 90's, a little known label called Uptown Records, and an unknown producer named Sean Combs delivered Mary J. Blige's debut album, "What's The 411?" Right from the start, Mary J. Blige has been blazing a trail straight to the top of the R+B charts, and she shows no sign of slowing down with her latest, "Stronger With Each Tear."

A sure dance hall hit, the album's title track is all over the TV and radio. Up tempo, and with the futuristic sounds of many of today's biggest hitmakers, it puts forth notice that Mary J. Blige is still coming strong, and she has no plans whatsoever to slow down.

The album's collection of featured artists is stellar. Akon is just one of many singers whose collaborative efforts make this album a bona fide money maker, with 7 or 8 cuts likely to see major numbers in the digital music download charts.

My pick for top song on "Stronger With Each Tear" would be "I Am." It paints a picture of a woman hoping her man remembers how she feels when he's miles away. "Think of all the love that you get from me that you can't find nowhere else." With Mary J. Blige's voice, the message is clear; give your man love worth coming home to, and you'll never be lonely.

I've been a big fan of Mary J. Blige ever since my sister brought her tape home from college. Her collaboration with Wu-Tang Clan's Method Man on "You're All I Need" is one of my favorite duets of all time. I am delighted to share that Mary J. Blige is back and better than ever. Grab your copy of "Stronger With Each Tear" today; and that's the 411!


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

The next pop explosion is clearly happening. There are battle lines being drawn, separating simple studio creations from songwriters and musicians in the genre. Orianthi is leading the pack in the race for pop superstardom, and shattering the glass ceiling with her guitar.

"Believe" is a certain hit for years to come. A brilliant musician who has worked with Prince, among others, Orianthi is ready to begin a legendary career at full steam ahead. Her songcrafting talent is unmatched among her peers, and her guitar playing rivals that of the most experienced axe masters out there.

I'll take "Feels Like Home" as the album's biggest hit. The story of coming home to a world that has changed before your eyes is one I can relate to. "Because every moment now is what I believe somehow within my reality, oh now." It isn't always easy when the world you remembered meets the world that evolved while you were gone, and this song takes on that feeling perfectly.

Pop music has gotten a bad rap from all the over-produced under thought lyrics and songs that have come off the assembly line of late. Orianthi isn't even close to that. She has put forth a collection of music that will likely be an unattainable level for pop divas to hit in the future, but anything is possible when you "Believe."


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

The era of the jam band is not necessarily behind us. In the days of the Grateful Dead, most acts in their genre had a lot of catching up to do. When Jerry Garcia passed away in 1994, the mantle was passed to Phish. There are smiles stretching from Burlington to Haight-Asbury now that "Undermind", the band's first studio album in quite some time, is out. It was well worth the wait.

Trey Anastasio is a gift to anyone who has been lucky enough to see Phish play live. He understands the principle of giving the audience a good time and rewarding them for continuing to follow his group. With 1988's "Junta" being their debut album, the band is Rock n Roll Hall of Fame eligible in 2013, and I like their chances.

From beginning to end, "Undermind" is the perfect album for a multi-state road trip. The band continues their solid mastery of the jam, with each song demonstrating the skill and dedication that has kept the music flying off the shelves for close to 25 years. This album might not capture the audience it had during their late 90's peak, but true fans will put it right up on the shelf next to the band's classics.

It is hard for a great live act to replicate the experience on album. Phish's legacy is and always will be the thrill of seeing them live, in an endless field of people. While that aspect of the Phish experience can not be duplicated, the consistent supply of great rock music is still in abundance. Grab a copy of Phish's "Undermind", and have a nice day.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Strength endures through the most difficult time in your life. Rihanna's private life has been splashed across the tabloids for over a year, and through all her trials and tribulations, she has kept coming back, and has never lost sight of her ambition to be a star. With "Rated R", Rihanna has reached icon status, staring drama in the face and making it blink.

With a noticeably rougher edge to it, "Rated R" stands out as the most hard driving album Rihanna has released to date. A major step up from "Good Girl Gone Bad", the album showcases her ability to take punches from ex's and family members alike, while returning a flurry of empowering lyrics strong enough to score a knockout blow.

The current hit making the rounds on TV is "Hard" featuring Young Jeezy. The "no pain is forever" mantra in the song is well worth embracing. This is an artist proudly taking her place on a pedestal with Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and many others who have broken free of a dangerous situation to find themselves still grasping their musical gift, all too eager to share with the world that they are better than ever.

I caught the Rihanna craze a few years back with "Umbrella." She took the world by storm with the hit, and "Rated R" should be no different. Scars heal. New days dawn. In the end, Rihanna is where she is because she knows never to quit. "Rated R" might not be for the kids, and that's fine. It wasn't a kid who put it out.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

The 60's may be over, but the spirit of peace & love will always live on. Ringo Starr does his part to keep alive the feelings of eras past with his latest effort, "Y Not." It might not be as groundbreaking and influential as "Sgt. Pepper's" or "Rubber Soul", but it keeps the heart of the peace movement beating with the message of togetherness that made he and his bandmates legends.

"Y Not" is Ringo Starr's statement to the music world that he is still relevant and capable of putting out solid material. With the recent passing of George Harrison and the 30th anniversary of John Lennon's death this December, it is up to Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney to continue the Liverpool Legacy into the new decade. With "Y Not", Starr shows he is up for the challenge.

Showing his savvy, Starr brought in Joss Stone for "Who's Your Daddy?", and the result is the album's highlight. Reaching out to one of the better voices in modern music exhibits Ringo Starr's ability to create an instant hit by involving a newer talent with his classic style. The song is a surefire chart climber and possible Grammy winner in 2011.

The world is better off with the music of John, Paul, George & Ringo. The band took music to another level, and helped pave the way for artists and entertainers to show their caring nature by supporting causes on a global level. Ringo Starr is still putting out hits today because his musical skills may well have only been topped by kis karma. Have a listen to "Y Not" and thank me later.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

It isn't often that an album explodes in popularity over a year after it's release, but Shinedown is taking that theory and tossing it out the window. "The Sound of Madness" has two of the biggest hits on rock radio at the moment, and there just might be more to come.

"If You Only Knew" and "Second Chance" are two of the best rock ballads of the last decade, and both are featured on the album. Picking up on the success of bands such as ickelback and Hinder, Shinedown pack pure emotion and heart wrenching lyrics into each note of their songs. Even in the video format, the band is head and shoulders above their Competition in putting out material that fans young and old can relate to. As a live act, I can imagine they leave their fans breathless and ready for more.

One track that has yet to hit VH1 is "Breaking Inside", a mammoth rock ballad tailor made for newly single people dealing with trying to make a better future for themselves. "I don't wanna live to waste another day underneath the shadow of mistakes I made." The song should be required listening for anyone convinced that their past mistakes should dictate how they live their lives.

There is nothing more American than rock music. It has a way of cutting through the fabricated mess that dominates the airwaves and taking fans back to the days where real guitars and real lyrics were easy to find on the radio. I'd like to think that those days are ahead of us with bands like Shinedown. At the very least, this band will be leading the charge.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Rock with soul is always timeless, and the latest album from The Avett Brothers is a prime example of that; a collection of tracks worthy of a rise up the charts and a place in any music fan's collection.

The North Carolina bred Avett Brothers are a force to be reckoned with in the new Southern rock world. They can produce well written songs and have musical skills worth taking notice of. I have a good feeling that with the right break, The Avett Brothers could be headlining a nationwide tour to packed seats in a short period of time.

The song that may well get them there is the album's title track. It shares the feeling of a man trying to remember what he may have forgotten, how he could do things a little better. "When at first I learned to speak, I used all my words to fight...three words that became hard to say: I and love and you."

On songwriting abilitites alone, The Avett Brothers are stars in the making. They put together a collection of tales sure to stand the test of time. I anticipate big things for this band for many years to come. Let "I And Love And You" grace your home or IPod in the near future.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

There are few acts whose sound has been enjoyed for two generations. Those that have been fortunate to make music that long always seem to have a lot of friends. I find it hard to imagine a group of artists with more friends than The Blind Boys of Alabama, and there are many reasons why.

The gospel genre has many variations, and the Blind Boys of Alabama put a well-needed twist on the music, mixing blues, soul and empowering lyrics into their own unique sound, and the cast of players who joined them on "Duets" is just as diverse as the music itself. Ben Harper, Bonnie Raitt, Randy Travis and Lou Reed are just a sampling of the artists who lent their talents to the project, a masterpiece from beginning to end.

"When the Spell Is Broken", featuring Bonnie Raitt, is a pure gem. Hearing her sing and play on this heaven-sent Classic was the highlight of the album for me. There are at least six tracks on this recording which could easily place in the gospel charts in coming months.

The world could use a little saving these days, and music just might be a small part of that. When folks can come home from a hard day's work, throw on an album, and recharge the batteries through heartwarming songs of faith, it is a very good thing. Share The Blind Boys of Alabama with your friends and family today.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

Matt Berninger of The National has an incredibly rare voice. Upon hearing "The Virginia EP", I was really struggling to remember hearing a lyricisit even vaguely similiar to his. It isn't often that an album comes around to remind us of the fact that some of the most powerful sounds can come from the least likely of places. The National has done that and so much more.

With a sound born in Brooklyn, The National have taken their place among alternative music's elite. Making use of clear brilliance in songwriting, the band share their gifts with the audience, well aware that little, if any, music around sounds anything like them. It can be a powerful thing to carve out a niche in the industry. I'm just hoping to be around when the band comes back for seconds.

Of all the songs on this well-produced album, I'll pick "Without Permission" as the best. Berninger's powerfully soulful voice and the band's superb instrumental work make it a bona fide chart topper on the college radio charts.

Independent music has seen it's ups and downs in recent years. There is a school of thought that once an independent artist or act gains widespread popularity, that they lose some of their relevance to their longtime fans. As far as The National goes, their die hard fans needn't worry. They are authentic enough to stay grounded, and just might be good enough to become big stars. Keep your eyes open for coming releases from The National at your local independent music store.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

The soothing sounds of Barcelona are on display in the latest release from the Thomas Lorenzo Quartet. "Spanish Breeze" is likely to sweep you across the ocean in no particular hurry to come back home.

Featuring four of the world's most reknowned Spanish jazz stars, "Spanish Breeze" is a soul stirring journey back in time, to a place where music healed the sick and made them dance. Any wedding with a global theme would do well to include this album's classic tracks on the dance card.

It is hard to single out one song as the best on this album, but "Blue Secrets" stands out for me. It reminds me of the music playing in the background of some of the finest romantic films of all time. The album could be the perfect gift for savvy Valentines' day shoppers worldwide.

There is nothing wrong with taking the one you love to the floor for a tender slow dance. The Thomas Lorenzo quartet could very well provide the musical backdrop for your next romantic interlude with that special Someone. Let "Spanish breeze" put a twinkle in the eye of your loved one tonight.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

With shades of Mindy McCready's "Guys Do It All The Time", Trinity Lane's "Girls Like Fast Cars Too" is the latest hit from the folks at KMA Records. A sassy blend of smooth country songs with just a touch of attitude, Trinity Lane just might be the next big star in the country world.

Telling tales of life and love, Lane transcends her genre into the art of classic American storytelling, sharing experiences folks can relate to, whether they are young or just young at heart. It's hard to believe that the millions of hard working housewives in this country won't get their day's work done a little quicker with Trinity Lane setting the beat.

There ain't nothing wrong with some good old fashioned feel good music, and Trinity Lane's latest has that in spades. It doesn't have clues to fix the Middle East crisis or solve the hardest question on your physics test, but this record is chock full of the type of music to make you swing a little more while caring a little less. Let Trinity Lane take your imagination for a spin today.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams    

The blues have evolved from the early days. Modern blues has become a melting pot of sounds and styles, ebbs and flows, and the results have been hit and miss. With "It's Time For U", U.O. Project has hit one out of the park.

I don't remember the last time I was so pleased with a blues album. Each of the seven tracks on "It's Time For U" tells a story worth listening to, involving the audience in the ride the artist took in creating it. The care and time U.O. Project put into the album is evident in the rhythm and sound of the songs, without a weak cut throughout.

"Stop This Train" is my choice for top song. Featuring the beautiful voice of Alicia Olatuja, and written by John Mayer, the track is a masterpiece, and is ready for an immediate bullet train to the top of the blues singles charts.

I can honestly say "It's Time For U" is worth it's weight in gold. Send a copy of this album to a loved one today. There is no better gift than art, and U.O. Project has created just that.


Christopher Llewellyn Adams