Ten to Watch in '10

I almost gave up on publishing this list, given that the first quarter of 2010 is almost over. Some might even say that it's too late to publish such a list. Still, I feel that these ten artists are deserving of the attention and should not be denied the exposure because of my severe tardiness. Better late than never, right? As for these artists, some are well established within the local music community, while some are relative unknowns. Every single one of them is worth your time and attention.

Air Review
In 2009, bands like Hendrick, The Farstar, and Dovetail reminded local music fans that it is possible to blend together the best parts of indie rock and commercial alternative music. Air Review has followed that model and then taken it to another level with a sound that combines all the best qualities of British bands like Muse and Radiohead without ever coming off as imitators. Their song, "Chasing Corporate" is not only an incredibly catchy tune, but it is a surprisingly intelligent song about trying to catch a break in the music business. And while the band repeats the line "This could be our only chance" throughout the song, their album Landmarks is filled with many other great songs ("Exodus", "All Because You're Mine", and "Cartography" for starters) that will give the band multiple chances to win over fans.
Emmeline
When 2009 began, I had no idea who Iris Leu was. All it took was one listen, however, and I was instantly hooked by her gorgeously memorable voice and great songs. By the end of the year, her talent earned her a substantial following. Throughout the year, she joined both Morning Elephant and Chameleon Chamber Group, and she even won Best New Artist at the Quick Awards Show. I think Emmeline, another talented young singer songwriter with tremendous skill on the piano, has the potential to pull a similar feat this year.
Jonathan Tyler & The Northern Lights
Sure, JT&NL have pretty much conquered the metroplex area, bringing droves of adoring fans to each and every show. There is no doubt that they are stars in our metroplex. So why are they spotlighted in this list? Now that their major label debut, Pardon Me, will be released this April, the band has the potential to duplicate that success on a national level. Now is the part where I get on my soapbox. It has been too long since our city has had the chance of such a major success story as JT&NL. So please, if you're a fan of their 60's influenced southern soul (as you should be), do your part. Buy the album. Go to shows. Call your radio stations. Go to more shows. Tell your friends. Maybe then you can say, "yeah, I knew them way back when".
Lovie
My love of Lovie isn't exactly new. Their debut album Harshmellow was a very enjoyable collection of catchy tunes sure to put a smile on even the biggest grouch's face. So why are GOBL faves Lovie on this list? Well, if the track "Your Virgo" (from their upcoming EP Because of My Mattress) is any indication, the band is taking things to another level. Don't get me wrong, the songs still have that pop sensibility to them. The difference now is that their sound is slightly more aggressive and a lot more energetic, sort of like a local version of Sleater-Kinney. Perhaps this is due to newer additions Leanna Bates on drums and Kristen DeRocha on bass. Either way, Lovie, this new sound looks good on you. Yes, I know I'm mixing metaphors.
Luna Matto
Polyphonic Spree side projects are nothing new. St. Vincent, Andrew Tinker, the list could go on and on. So Luna Matto is just another name to add to the list, right? Wrong! From the first time I saw this band play live at Lakewood Bar and Grill, I knew instantly that this is a band that needed to be heard by the masses. Ms. Matto's voice is distinctive and quite lovely, and I have yet to hear a song by her that hasn't amazed me. Her style is in a definite Cat Power/Sia type of vein, and she's every bit as good as those artists, if not better. By this time next year, she should be selling out the Granada Theater and other venues of that size not only in Dallas but across this nation. I once said on the blog that if Luna Matto doesn't "explode" this year, that I "just might lose my faith in the Dallas music fan." I still stand behind that statement. There are few artists I'd go that far out on a limb with, and Luna Matto is one of them.
Menkena
So much has been done with music that it seems difficult to do something truly unique. Yet I feel that Jimmy Menkena has managed to do that with his blend of acoustic and shoegaze sounds. He and his band has blended together the beautiful sonic stylings of shoegaze with the captivating lyrics of what is normally only found in the singer-songwriter world. Yes, their music is quiet by nature, and if you're looking for the soundtrack to a party, then Menkena will not work. If, however, you want to dive into a gorgeous sonic landscape and get lost in a masterfully told story, then you will not find a better act in Dallas than Menkena. Oh,I almost forgot, they'll be releasing their first full length CD soon. I predict it'll be one of my most listened to CD's of the year.
The Monco Poncho
First of all, let me say I'm thrilled that the band has found such an enthusiastic fan base for their live shows. If you have not seen them live yet, it is a fun experiences filled with western dress and lots of cap guns. Still, I sometimes worry that it distracts from the fine songs written by lead singer Nick Durham and the rest of the gang. When they release their debut CD next month, be sure to pick it up and listen carefully. The shows may be fun, but the songs can definitely stand alone on their merit.
Ryan Thomas Becker
I'm not going to specify whether to watch his solo career, RTB2, Slow Burners, Eaton Lake Tonics, or whatever other project he may be a part of this week. Here's what you need to know: if it involves Mr. Becker, it's a big deal. That's all you need to know.
Sarah Jaffe
When I compiled the list, I knew that Ms. Jaffe was going to release her first full length, Suburban Nature, on Kirtland Records. I even knew she was opening for Midlake on their European tour, no doubt a nice opportunity for some exposure. Never would I have predicted that she'd be getting to open for Norah Jones. That's right, she's the main support for Ms. Jones on several dates, including her Dallas performance May 4th at the Fair Park Music Hall. And yes, her voice is still powerful enough to send chills down your back. Some things never change.
Tonite Tonite, but After Tonite You're on Your Own
It's been a long road for the band, almost breaking up several times and coming close to releasing their album but never getting it out yet. I think 2010 will finally break the spell for this band, and their debut (produced by none other than Salim Nourallah) will finally see the light of day. Like Menkena, this is a quiet band, but one whose beautiful melodies are well worth the attention. And as for the band's name, yes, it's a little long. Some would say that a name so long will hurt the band, yet ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead managed to do just fine.

The Lucky Thirteen: 3/14/10 - 3/20/10

NX35 wraps up tonight, leaving you a brief breather before that OTHER major music festival in Texas. I must say, I'm disappointed by how little of the metroplex area is represented in the official SXSW showcases. Frankly, I think that as a whole, the bands playing the unofficial shows are better than most of the locals playing the official shows. Still, I'm letting you have a taste of both sides of the fence. You'll get several official bands that you'll need to pay lots of money to see, as well as many playing free unofficial showcases.

1. "Austin's Birthday", The Burning Hotels
   The official show happens Wednesday night at Jaime's at about one in the morning. What's even cooler, however, is the fact that they're playing at the Fort Worth Grab Bag show Thursday at Dominican Joe's free of charge. Their set starts at 6:30 on the outdoor stage. Other bands playing the showcase include Fate Lions, Whiskey Folk Ramblers, and Goodwin just to name a few. This is easily the king of unofficial showcases.


2. "Dawn", Nicholas Altobelli
   Here's some more unofficial fun: Nicholas Altobelli performs Saturday at Thunderbird Coffee around 7:00, where I'm sure he'll be performing songs from his upcoming release, The Regulator. (NOTE: the Thunderbirds show is cancelled)


3. "Tell It in My Ear", Fergus and Geromino
   This Teenage Cool Kids side project has gotten plenty of buzz around these parts, and they'll be trying to spread the buzz at SXSW. This is an official show starting at about 9:00 pm Saturday night at Red 7.


4. "Minor It Down", True Widow
   They'll be performing Friday night at Encore around midnight, and yes, this is an official showcase. If you haven't seen the band play live yet, then this is a must see show for you.


5. "Acts of Man", Midlake
   Here's yet another official show, this one happening Thursday night (about 1:00 AM) at Buffalo Billiards.


6. "TNT Family", Holy Moly
   I don't have a start time for their set at Darwin's Pub; all I can tell you is that it's an unofficial show Friday night.


7. "When Hammer Hits Stone", RTB2
   RTB2 is another one of the acts performing Thursday at the previously mentioned Fort Worth Grab Bag showcase. Need more RTB2? They'll also be playing Friday afternoon at Momo's club around 5:20 or so.


8. "Party Like You Mean It", Damaged Good$
   If any local artist could claim to party like they mean it, it would be Damaged Good$. Attend the party, I mean official show, Friday night (10:00 pmish) at The Independent.


9. "Robin", Little Black Dress
   For those who will arrive in Austin Wednesday night, don't miss LBD's official show at The Hideout. The set starts around 1:00 AM.


10. "Even Born Again", Sarah Jaffe
    Ms. Jaffe's set starts at 8:00 pm Thursday night at St. David's Historic Sanctuary, a quite unlikely place for a SXSW show.


11. "Have You Ever Been Down?", THe BAcksliders
    Were the folks at SXSW intimated by the wild performances and energetic rock stylings of THe BAcksliders? This band deserves all the buzz it can get. SXSW may have been intimidated, but fortunately the Electra Beauty Lounge isn't as easily scared. That's where they perform Saturday afternoon around 3 pm.


12. "Shake Your Fist", Telegraph Canyon
    It's no surprised that Telegraph Canyon, one of the most critically acclaimed bands around here as of late, is performing an official show Saturday night at The Ale House. The set time is 8:00 pm.


13. "She's from the Other Side", Jonathan Tyler & The Northern Lights
    It used to be that each year their would be that "breakout" artist at SXSW. Norah Jones was a "breakout" artist, and perhaps our metroplex can score another breakout with JT&NL. Not only does our music community need a success story, but this band has the talent to pull it off. Check out both of their official shows: Thursday at midnight at Maggie May's and Saturday at Galaxy Room Backyard (9:00 pm). Can't afford the real shows? No worries, because they'll be performing Friday afternoon at Antone's (not sure of the set time).

And if there are any other good local acts I've forgotten to list (especially good unofficial shows), feel free to post them in the comments section.

Oso Finito

Tonight is quite a busy day for shows, between Jonathan Tyler & Northern Lights at Granada Theater this afternoon, Menkena and Romp Almighty at Bryan Street Tavern, and Salim Nourallah and I Love Math (Buttercup as well) at the House of Blue Cambridge Room.

And then of course there's NX35. Most of the attention will be directed towards the free Flaming Lips/Midlake show at the North Texas Fairgrounds. Still, there's one performance at the evening shows that needs to be brought to your attention.

Oso Closo's set at The Boiler Room is reported to be the band's final show. There are still several other shows listed on their MySpace, but I am presuming that all of those dates are unfortunately null and void. I've only seen the band once, and that was over two years ago at the Cottonwood Arts Festival. I've been wanting to see the band again ever since hearing tracks from their latest effort, Today Is Beauty's Birthday. The album showed how much they had grown musically since the last time I saw them perform.

Moral of the story: if you like Oso Closo, or are curious and want to see them for the first time, it's now or never.

Salim, Salim, and More Salim!

I only have a little time to blog before going to my "real job", but here's a quick summary of what you need to know about Salim.

• At 9 am this Morning, Salim will be performing on Good Morning Texas on Channel 8. I know that's not much warning, but better short notice than none.


• Friday morning he'll be performing live on KXT, also known as the best station in the metroplex.


• Saturday, Salim plays a show that is NOT in the morning hours (thank goodness). The lineup at the House of Blues Cambridge Room include Salim & The Dufilhos, I Love Math, and San Antonio band Buttercup. You can order tickets through the HOB website I'm sure.


• Finally, Salim's been holding a pledge drive to raise funds for his next album, a 70's cover album featuring Shibboleth as the back up band. You can order everything from CDs to DVDs to house concerts. To see the exact list, go here for the website.

One of the items available on that website is the option of selecting Salim's setlist as a show. If anyone wanted to order that and give that as a gift to his or her favorite ghost blogger, that would be an awesome gift. I'm just sayin'...

Album Review: The Timeline Post, Slow Descent

If you were like me, you probably thought that the Timeline Post was a metal band. It's an easy mistake to make. The band has played with Fair to Midland, The House Harkonnen, and similar bands on repeated occasions. Even a glimpse at the song titles on their latest CD would seem to reinforce that notion: "Wedding Bell Murders", "Kill the Girl", "Devil's Alamo", and that's not even counting the album's name. Yes, Slow Descent would appear to be just another metal album out of Dallas.

Oh, how wrong I was. And for that matter, how wrong you are if you still think that.

It is rare for a CD to catch me so pleasantly by surprise, but that is exactly what The Timeline Post have done. Slow Descent is not an easy album to classify, yet that is the reason this album is so immediately captivating. Yes, the album definitely has a heavy rock edge in many of the tracks. "Success" kicks off with a frantic beat and plenty of loud guitars, and the track never lets up for a single second. "Wedding Bell Murders", although more melodic, shares that same level of energy. And yes, those tracks definitely work well when turned up on full blast.

What really makes Slow Descent memorable, however, are the quieter moments. The album's opening track, "Skyhook", starts with a simple yet beautiful melody played by Lindsay Harrill. The mood of the song is melancholy to say the least, as shown by lines like "There's no light from above to keep us in check or save us from death". In fact, the mood of sadness and even desperation continues throughout the entire album.

One might think that an album so bleak would be a difficult and unpleasant listen, yet nothing could be further from the truth. The eleven songs on this album have a way of lingering in your head, whether it be "Devil's Alamo" with its tempo changes and interesting chord progressions or quiet and beautiful desperation of "Kill the Girl". The album's highlight, however, is the track "Three". The vocal harmonies at the end of the song (much props to members Owen Bickford and Steve Simpson) are simple yet so intensely effective. In some ways, this song reminds me of the material from Midlake's The Courage of Others, and to my surprise, I'm finding this album even more captivating. Whether the album rocks or haunts, it lingers in your head and demands repeated listens. Simply put, this is the first truly great release of 2010. Fans of metal (and non-fans of metal) take note alike.

The Lucky Thirteen: 3/7/10 - 3/13/10

You might have heard about a little music festival up in Denton called NX35. This is the festival's second year, and I must say that the lineup is quite impressive. The thirteen artists featured in the playlist are all playing at some point during the 4 day festival. For more details, including how to buy wristbands, all the artists playing, all the venues, etc. etc. etc., then go to NX35 for all the details. The playlist only represent some of my favorite artists playing, and even at that, there are a LOT who didn't make the list who are still worth checking out.

Standard disclaimer: any artists, record labels, etc. who do not wish to be on the playlist for any reason whatsoever, email me at ghostofblindlemon@gmail.com and I will gladly remove the track. And if you'd actually like to be on the playlist, you can use the same email addy to email me mp3's, and if I like the song then odds are it'll wind up on a playlist.

1. "Romance Tried to Kill Me", Cocky Americans
   Performing Thursday night at J&J's Pizza, and in an unrelated note, the band headlines a benefit show tonight at Double-Wide for the employees affected by the lower Greenville fires


2. "The Vultures Are Circling", Jack With One Eye
   Performing Saturday night at Hailey's


3. "Letters to a Young Danny Kennedy", RTB2
   Performing Thursday at Dan's Silverleaf, as part of the KXT showcase


4. "Everything Dies", Nicholas Altobelli
   Performing Friday night at Jupiter House


5. "Tired of Dallas", Orange Peel Sunshine
   Performing Thursday night at Boiler Room


6. "Sunday Morning", Dem Southernfolkz
   Performing Sunday night at Andy's Bar


7. "Truth on Tape", Smile Smile
   Performing Sunday night at Boiler Room


8. "Come Closer", Shiny Around the Edges
   Performing Saturday night at Texas 8 Ball, as part of the Asthmatic Kitty Records showcase


9. "Wedding Bell Murders", The Timeline Post
   Performing Thursday night at Banter, as part of the Gutterth showcase


10. "As Hard as the Road Ahead", Western Giants
    Performing Sunday night at Sweetwater Grill & Tavern


11. "Patricia Lynn", The Crash That Took Me
    Performing Thursday night at Hailey's


12. "Barrel Chested", Slobberbone
    Performing Saturday night at Dan's Silverleaf


13. "Winter Dies", Midlake
    Performing Saturday afternoon at the North Texas Fairgrounds right before Flaming Lips take the stage, but you knew that already, didn't you?

My apologies to A.M. Ramblers, Bridges & Blinking Lights, the cut*off, Damaged Good$, The Demigs, Doug Burr, Giggle Party, The Heelers, Here Holy Spain, Jessie Frye, The Naptime Shake, Nervous Curtains, Oso Closo, PVC Street Gang, Record Hop, Sarah Jaffe, Telegraph Canyon, and all the other awesome artists who I couldn't add to the list. If I did, it would be the lucky thirty and not the lucky thirteen, which just doesn't have the same ring to it.

By the way, next week's playlist is all about SXSW, both the official and unofficial shows. If you want on the list, send your mp3s (scroll above for the email address) and you might wind up being one of the lucky thirteen.

The Lucky Thirteen: 2/28/10 - 3/6/10

Standard disclaimer: any artists, record labels, etc. who do not wish to be on the playlist for any reason whatsoever, email me at ghostofblindlemon@gmail.com and I will gladly remove the track. And if you'd actually like to be on the playlist, you can use the same email addy to email me mp3's, and if I like the song then odds are it'll wind up on a playlist.

1. "Your Virgo", Lovie
   If this track is any indication of the quality of the rest of the band's upcoming EP, Because of My Mattress, then this will be their best work to date. The song has a little more of an aggressive rock edge to it, but not so much that it kills the band's happy-go-lucky vibe. Think of it like a sweeter version of Sleater-Kinney. Very, very, very good stuff.


2. "Austin's Birthday", The Burning Hotels
   What, one piece of nearly perfect rock ear candy isn't enough for you? Boy, you sure are greedy. Alright then, I'll throw you the new single from The Burning Hotels. This is a band that knows how to write some great pop hooks, as this song is proof. You think you'll listen and not be humming it to yourself the next day? Good luck with that one.


3. "Back Is Broken", Oso Closo
   Alright, so I'm a little late notifying you about the Fort Worth Co-Op Outreach Benfit Show, happening as I type this entry. You've already missed Tony Ferraro playing with Ryan Thomas Becker, Titanmoon is playing at this moment, and Rivercrest Yacht Club goes on next. Fortunately, if you hurry over to Lola's Sixth, you can still catch Stella Rose, the cut*off, Whiskey Folk Ramblers, and this fine band playing known as Oso Closo.


4. "Dreams of You and Elvis", Meredith Louise Miller
   Ah, the joys of Facebook. I discovered that Meredith will be celebrating her birthday this week, so it seemed like a good excuse to post one of her songs. Not that one needs an excuse to post a song from one of the best folk/acoustic performers to ever come out of Dallas.


5. "Ramblin' Jack", Andrew Delaney & the Horse You Rode In On
   Thanks to Gregory Pierce, both for recommending Mr. Delaney's music to me, and for him persuading Andrew to email me and send me music. "Wine & Roses" may be the track getting airplay on The Range, but there's something about this Tom Waits style country number that made me take notice of him.


6. "Move Along Folks...", Smile Smile
   The title seems very fitting of the band, which has been receiving more attention for the relationship woes of the duo than their music. It's a shame, because this album is a beautifully earnest piece of work with great melodies. And for some reason, the line "There is no problem/This is your evident lack of experience" seems to be playing on a repeat loop in my head.


7. "Will You Be There", Pale Horse
   There's an amazing story behind this song, and a brief playlist style write up would not do the story or the band justice. I'll try to tell you the story soon, but if you can't wait, go ask the band Saturday at the Frisco Arts Festival. Yeah, I didn't know Frisco had an arts festival either, and I'm really impressed that they got a band as good as Pale Horse to play. They'll be the main support for 80's band The Romantics.


8. "Same Old, Same Old", Hello Lover
   Great song, do I need to say more?


9. "Fooling Vampires", Jayson Bales & The Charmers
   Mr. Bales will be busy the next few weekends. He plays acoustic this Saturday at the Billy Reid store at Northpark (yet another unlikely venue for good music), and the following Saturday the full band plays at Poor David's Pub with Trey Johnson. It's a nice alternative to those who didn't get NX35 tickets.


10. "Bowling Green", The O's
    Ah, bon voyage to the O's, who will be heading to Europe for a tour. Before they go, you can catch them this Saturday at Sons of Hermann Hall. If you miss this show, you'll have to wait at least another month to see them, and just hope you don't get the shakes too bad.


11. "Last Second", Record Hop
    Ah, proof that this Friday has at least one good show. Record Hop headlines at Double-Wide, with The Polycorns and Baruch the Scribe rounding out this nice bill.


12. "Three", The Timeline Post
    I'm still working on the review of Slow Descent, but annoying things like getting sicked have sidetracked me. Here's one of my faves from the album.


13. "Execution by X-Mas Lights", Flickerstick
    It was one year ago this day that Flickerstick played their final show, and this was the final song lead singer Brandin Lea played. It was a beautiful moment, and I still miss this band.

Finally, I leave you with a video of The Great Tyrant's "Candy Canes". Most of you have probably heard about the passing of their bassist, Tommy Atkins. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. There's a benefit show happening right now at The Kessler Theater featuring Nervous Curtains (among others), and I'll let you know about more fundraisers as they happen.

The Lucky Thirteen: 2/22/10 - 2/27/10

Sure, it's a day late, but better late than never, right? I'm short on time, so forgive the briefer comments that usual.

Standard disclaimer: any artists, record labels, etc. who do not wish to be on the playlist for any reason whatsoever, email me at ghostofblindlemon@gmail.com and I will gladly remove the track. And if you'd actually like to be on the playlist, you can use the same email addy to email me mp3's, and if I like the song then odds are it'll wind up on a playlist.

1. "Caldera", The Timeline Post
   I'm working on a review for the band's new album, Slow Descent. No, I don't do a lot of album reviews, so when I do, that usually means something really significant. In the meantime, I leave you with this track from the album, which I think is the perfect introduction to the band. The song is almost split into two different parts: the harder rocking half, and the darker, more melancholy half. Both halves are amazing.


2. "Need a Release", the cut*off
   Work has been busy lately to say the least, and I have been stressed out. Simply put, I have lately related to the idea of needing a release. Rarely do I select songs for playlists based on my personal life, but I decided to make an exception. Besides, it's a darn good song.


3. "Young & Reckless", The Roomsounds
   The band will be opening for RTB2 this Saturday at Barley House. This is a band that I've wanted to see live for quite some time. This song has captivated me for quite awhile, and I'm hoping the live show cashes in on the potential shown in these two minutes of pop bliss.


4. "Great American Trainwreck", Eleven Hundred Springs
   "Great American True Country Music" could just as easily be the name. It'd be truth in advertising.


5. "I Can't Make You Happy", Ronnie Fauss
   Mr. Fauss has managed to get himself on a quite impressive bill this Thursday night. He'll be performing with Brent Best & Danny Balis at Allgood Cafe.


6. "This Is Me", The Rocket Summer
   Bryce Avery has a new CD coming out, and the CD release show happens Friday at Granada. I may get flack for this, but I don't care. His early material, particularly his Calendar Days CD, is just really great pop music, and I don't care what the indie hipster kids say.


7. "Sins of the Father", Course of Empire
   Fell in love with the song at first listen back in my junior year in high school. Still love the song.


8. "Romance Tried to Kill Me", Cocky Americans
   Great song title.


9. "All Yesterday's Parties", Nervous Curtains
   I don't know whether or not this track is on the band's upcoming debut album. I do know that the LP release show will take place at Good Records Thursday. What, no CD?


10. "Little Bear", Elkhart
    The band will play Friday at Bryan Street Tavern, and the band will undoubtedly sound beautiful, as usual.


11. "Infatuations Never Last", The Slack
    Mark from the EDGE, I'm jealous. You get to host these great shows at Trees, and this Thursday's show may be the best lineup to date. Andrew Tinker, Johnny Lloyd Rollins, Fate Lions, and The Slack on one bill, plus no cover. Why don't I get to host a lineup that cool? It's just not fair.


12. "Sweetness", Toadies
    I'm not going to lie. There are lots of Toadies songs in the Hypster catalog, and that saved me the time of uploading my own music. Hey, cut me some slack. At least I didn't choose Vanilla Ice.


13. "At the Switches", Air Review
    This track from Landmarks grows on me with each listen. For that matter, so does the entire album.

The Lucky Thirteen 2/14/10 - 2/20/10

Alas, we have come to that time of year, Valentine's Day. For some, it's a day of joyous celebration filled with love. To others, it's a conspiracy of a holiday created by Hallmark and chocolate companies that depresses the lonely ones. To reflect those mixed opinions of the holiday, I have created a playlist showing both the happier and the sadder aspects of that thing we call love.

Oh, and of course, I can't start a playlist without the standard disclaimer: any artists, record labels, etc. who do not wish to be on the playlist for any reason whatsoever, email me at ghostofblindlemon@gmail.com and I will gladly remove the track. And if you'd actually like to be on the playlist, you can use the same email addy to email me mp3's, and if I like the song then odds are it'll wind up on a playlist.



Get Your Own Free Hypster.com Playlist.

1. "Get Used to Disappointment", Sara Radle
   Two years ago, I declared this track to be the best song about heartbreak to ever emerge from the metroplex. There's another song on this list that is now rivaling Ms. Radle's tune for the number one spot, but there's no denying the power of this story of a woman afraid of falling in love. And based on the ending of the song, those fears are well based. Any mixed tape of heartbreak songs is incomplete without this track.


2. "Every Time I Get Close to You", Eleven Hundred Springs
   It's quite a stark contrast from "Get Used to Disappointment" to this track, a honky-tonk celebration of love. This is as certain to put a smile on your face as the previous track was likely to have you feeling down.


3. "Beg You to Stay", Smile Smile
   It's hard to discuss the band's new CD, Truth on Tape, without going into the personal lives of Ryan Hamilton and Jencey Hirunrusme. Listening to the songs make you feel like you're eavesdropping into personal conversations between the former husband and wife. The tension between the two onstage is often very visible, yet musically the band is as solid as ever. This particular tune is a perfect blend of sweet pop melodies combined with Mr. Hamilton's earnest plea.


4. "Salome", Old 97's
   I suppose I could do a Valentine's Day playlist of songs without any Old 97's. But really, what would be the fun in that? The band's success is due to their energetic delivery of their tales of heartbreak that are always authentic without ever being maudlin.


5. "Romance Tried to Kill Me", Cocky Americans
   Have you checked out the video for the song? If not, do so now!


6. "I Still Wait", The O's
   The opening line of this tune, "I broke my heart in Arizona waiting on a train/I stood alone for several hours but you never came" is so perfect that it almost seems archetypal of country music. And when the duo hits the chorus, well, it's pretty darn awesome.


7. "Echo and the Pass", Hendrick
   If any song could dethrone Ms. Radle's track for best heartbreak song, this would be the one. Although the story is not as clearly laid out as it was by Sara, the vocal performance by Josh Hendrick is so powerful that I believe that the emotions are communicated far beyond what mere words can do. Also, more props to guitarist Hans Grubein, who is quite possibly the most underappreciated guitarist in the metroplex. Oh, and I'll bet they'll play this song Friday at House of Blues. Tickets are as cheap as $20 for a group of four (in advance).


8. "Breaking up the Love Scene", Summer Ames
   I finally received her latest EP, Complicated Daydream, which was recently reviewed in the Dallas Observer by Alan Ayo. I agree with his statements that she is indeed "above average" in her vocal talent. I also think that she has yet to reach her full potential. Still, I never felt that the CD had the "customary coffeehouse sound", and in fact, in many tunes, she defiantly breaks that mold. Anyways, I figured this song fit in quite nicely on the playlist, as it's sweet sounding enough to appeal to the hopeless romantics, yet there's a definite feeling of frustration coming from the lyrics, which the cynics will enjoy.


9. "It's Over", Danny Balis
   This song, unlike the previous, falls exclusively into the heartbreak category. I cannot think of another person in the metroplex with a voice suited better for country than Mr. Balis, and I love the steel guitars on this track. If you like your beer laced with tears, this track will do the trick.


10. "Posterchild for Tragedy", Sugarbomb
    Back in the day, few bands had as energetic of a performance as Sugarbomb, with each show feeling like the perfect party. Yet strangely enough, the band never wrote a better song than this tale of a man who loses his lover - permanently. If only the band stayed together longer, it would have been interesting to see if the band would have explored this more introspective side.


11. "Sun Rain Love", Rahim Quazi
    I wanted to place Mr. Quazi's "Coffeebreak" in last year's V-day playlist, but the song was not on his MySpace playlist (an example of why I prefer Hypster). Anyways, he suggested this track as a less depressing alternative, and I figured I'd use it this year. Next year, however, it's back to the downer of "Coffeebreak". You've been forewarned.


12. "Lies", Fishing for Comets
    "Got lost on the drive home/It's useless I suppose to hold on to something that's not there." I don't think Ms. Cortinas has written a finer line than that.


13. "The Ocean", Sara Donaldson
    There have been two times in my life where the sheer beauty of a vocal performance leaves me speechless and choked up. The first was when I heard Kate Bush's "This Woman's Work" the first time, and the second was when I heard this song. The story she tells is equally beautiful and, as risk of sounding corny, it's quite touching. By the way, I usually don't post MySpace links for the singers, but Ms. Donaldson has been sneaking underneath the radar for WAY too long. Listen to more of her stuff, or better yet, buy her newest album, Leaving Winter, on iTunes. ("The Ocean" is off her first CD, ...The Beginning, which isn't on iTunes yet.

The Lucky Thirteen: 1/31/10 - 2/6/10

Standard playlist disclaimer: any artists, record labels, etc. who do not wish to be on the playlist for any reason whatsoever, email me at ghostofblindlemon@gmail.com and I will gladly remove the track. And if you'd actually like to be on the playlist, you can use the same email addy to email me mp3's, and if I like the song then odds are it'll wind up on a playlist.

Now, on with the playlist:

1. "Same Old, Same Old", Hello Lover
   The Hello Lover CD release party was an absolute blast. And as to Pete Freedman's comments that the shows can be hit or miss, the two shows I've attended have squarely fallen into the category of "hit".


2. "Winter Dies", Midlake
   Pitchfork reviewed The Courage of Others and pretty much trashed the CD. I'm not going to comment about the CD as a whole, as my knowledge of the album is still limited to "Acts of Man", "Rulers Ruling All Things", and this now track. I will say that I think all three tracks are beautiful, albeit terribly melancholy. And while having a full album of such songs may prevent it from getting played at your next party, that does not make it a bad album. An album that you can't listen to every day? Perhaps. Still, I suspect this is the type of album that will grow with each listen, so I'm wondering if some of the criticisms may be premature.


3. "Love Is War", Dovetail


4. "What Turns Inside", Dove Hunter
   This Saturday brings a double serving of doves to the metroplex area. Dovetail plays that night at City Tavern, while over in Fort Worth, Dove Hunter rocks The Moon. Now all that's needed is a Prince cover band playing "When Doves Cry".


5. "Robot at the Square Dance", American Werewolf Academy
   Shame on me. I have neglected my duties of letting my readers know that AWA is back in business. I made a brief mention of their Bryan Street Tavern show, but this band is so good at what they do, they deserved to have the red carpet extended for their return to Dallas. The band will take their show to Funkytown this weekend, opening for Reverse Cuomo (yes, it's a Weezer tribute band) Friday night at The Moon.


6. "Everything Dies", Nicholas Altobelli
   I just discovered that this Thursday is Mr. Altobelli's birthday, and he'll be celebrating that evening at Dunn Bros Coffee in Addison, performing with Amber Farris (Somebody's Darling).


7. "Slideshows", Rose County Fair
   This Friday at LaGrange is the second installment of the JC Experience. Here's the Cliff Notes version of The JC Experience: John Pedigo (The O's, Boys Named Sue, Rose County Fair) and Chad Stockslagger (The King Bucks) play music, and there will be interviews, performances, and whatnot by other special guests. It should be an interesting time.


8. "We Will All Be Changed", Seryn
   I'm probably supposed to say that it was love at first listen for me with Seryn. To be honest, it wasn't. So if this track doesn't immediately grab you, it's okay. But please, give it more than one listen, because if you're like me, the song will worm its way into your head and your heart. I'm sure they'll perform this song Friday at Hailey's, along with performances by Western Giants and Baruch the Scribe.


9. "The Great Escape", Damaged Good$
   Damaged Good$ has been steadily releasing a flow of free tracks to download (click here for the link). The most recent is "WeHateDamagedGood$Too", but I have to say that the best track released so far is "The Great Escape".


10. "Duelist", True Widow
    I thought I'd heard that the Chat Room Pub had closed down, but apparently I'm wrong, because True Widow will be playing there Saturday night with The Great Tyrant and Darktown Strutters.


11. "She Hides Golden Apples", Leaving Denton
    I posted this song a few weeks ago, and I can't stop thinking about this song. Between the nice harmonies, great vocals, and the breezily catchy melody, this song is like a breath of fresh air. My only complaint of the band: play some shows!!!


12. "Give Me Back My Fleetwood Mac", The Tah-Dah's
    What do you do when you have the strange urge to post Fleetwood Mac music on your local music blog? Option 1: convince the members of Fleetwood Mac to move to the metroplex. Option 2: insert this song into the playlist, which not only invokes the name of the band, but sort of sounds like "Second Hand News" on steroids.


13. "Your Life", Smile Smile
    This is a big, big week for Smile Smile. The band is celebrating the release of Truth on Tape with two shows on Saturday. First, there's a free show at Good Records kicking off at about 4 p.m. Later that night, Smile Smile headlines at double with Giggle Party and The O's opening. I would have posted a track from the new CD, but I don't have a copy yet, so I leave you with my favorite cut from Blue Roses.