Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors

Sorry for my not-so-eloquent post. But it's 1:00 AM and I've been in "Finals Mode" for the past two weeks. While "writing my Islam paper" yesterday, I found this band and really liked them. I have to admit, at first I thought, "they aren't really my cup of tea" but I soon changed my mind.


So, follow this link and check out Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors.

• Song Suggestions: "Hung The Moon" and "The Wire"

I didn't want to post a video because I thought you might not check out the link- but I'm going to anyway. But please still look at the link and listen to those songs.

Because I'm in the Christmas spirit and it snowed over a foot this weekend, I'll post their cover of "Baby, It's Cold Outside." Of course it's no comparison to the original, but quite cute.

Duffy "I'm Scared"

As if it's not obvious yet, I have an obsession with singer-songwriters. And if you've really been paying attention, you probably know that I have an obsession with European singer-songwriters, specifically. For obvious reasons, I love male songwriters (accents, metrosexual vibe-- what more could I ask for?).

But, generally speaking, I'm not a huge fan of female artists. However I can't help but be in love with some of the female artists coming out of Europe these days. Their sound is so pure and raw that it honestly leaves me speechless(which is quite a feat)

I've had Duffy's "I'm Scared" stuck in my head all day. Love it!

Here are some other European female artists you should check out: Corrine Bailey Rae, Adele, Laura Izibor

Rage Against the Machine- Testify

Rage Against the Machine is one of my favorite bands of all time and I was fortunate enough to see them perform at Rock The Bells in 2007 and it was one of the best live performances I've seen. I really enjoy this music video and I hope you will too.

This Is Music!

This is one of my favorite songs. I need a boy man who will write me a song like this. Any takers, please send me an email.

You Make It Easy- James Taylor

Chariot Stripped- Gavin Degraw

I have this terrible habit of buying a CD when it first comes out and then listening to that CD only for the next 4-5 months. I guess you could call it devotion...but it's borderline obsession and I'm not sure that it's healthy. Back around 2003 or 2004, Gavin Degaw's "I Don't Want To Be," hit the radio and was an instant hit. A few people doubted his success and thought he would be a one-hit wonder, until his second single, "Chariot" debuted. After hearing the first single, I convinced my mom to buy me the "Chariot Deluxe Edition" which included two albums: "Chariot" and "Chariot Stripped"

Now I must say, had I only heard "Chariot," I probably would not have been a Gavin Degraw fan. But after hearing the first song on "Chariot Stripped," I was instantly hooked. Soon, my roommates began to love Gavin as well-- mostly because it was only music I would allow to be played aloud in our room.

But this evening, I had "Follow Through" stuck in my head and I turned to "Chariot Stripped" for the first time in probably 2 years and I don't know why I ever stopped listening.

This album is truly outstanding. The highlight for me is his cover of Sam Cooke's "A Change is Going to Come." He also does a fantastic cover of "A Song for You."




Anyway, the point of this post was to get you all to check out "Chariot Stripped." I promise you won't be disappointed!

As for Gavin's follow-up albums, "Gavin Degraw," and "Free" (a deceiving name for a $9.99 album), I was less than impressed. But "Chariot Stripped" is truly a gem and I highly recommend buying this one.

Free Music Alert!!

A few freebies. Like Matt Wertz? Funny, so do I!! Check out his FREE live album here!


Who else is giving out free music? Menya of course! Check out their mixtape "The Sleepover Series" here!

Call My Name- Bright Like Japan

I was listening to my iPod this morning (instead of writing my sociology paper) and came across Bright Like Japan and realized I never actually wrote about them.

Bright Like Japan is a twosome from Chicago and I loove their sound. They kind of remind me a bit of 90s pop and as you probably know by now, that's my favorite kind of nostalgia. Something like a blend between Maroon 5 and Hanson, these guys are pretty awesome. "Call My Name" was the first song that I heard by them and is by far my favorite! Enjoy!

Ill State Of Mind- Neeko

These days, every aspiring musician posts his or her music on YouTube or Myspace in hopes that the right person might happen to come across their website. Ultimately, this is how many artists get discovered but there are millions of acts that go unknown.

But imagine how amazing it would be to post a song, gather a few thousand hits, have your song played on the radio, and at a stadium during the World Series all within a few days. Well, that's what happened to the YouTube sensation, Neeko.

A fellow Phillies fan sent me a link to this video the day it was posted. When Neeko discovered that the Philadelphia Phillies would be playing the New York Yankees in the 2009 World Series, he wrote "Ill State of Mind," appropriating the beat from New York native, Jay Z's "Empire State of Mind."

Within a few days hours Phillies fans began passing around this viral video and soon a Facebook group formed, demanding that Neeko get the chance to perform at the first home game of the World Series.

How's that for inspiration?

This Is It

I just got back from seeing Michael Jackson's "This Is It" and all I have to say is : "love.love.love"

This movie was a great look at Michael Jackson as a creative genius. Rather than focusing on his tragedy, the film really looked at his mastery as an artist. I don't want to get into the details because I'm sure that not everyone seen it yet and I really think you should get out there and see this film for yourself.

Even if you're not the biggest Michael Jackson fan in the world, this film does a great job of revealing the behind the scenes work. Ever wonder what goes into the pyro, choreography, wardrobe, and set changes of your favorite concerts? Well this truly is it.

After watching the movie, the one thing I wanted more than ever was to see the actual performance. It's a desire-- a void, if you will, that will never be filled. The thought and creativity that went into the production of this tour was truly outstanding.


When I was leaving the theater, I surveyed the demographic of the audience and perhaps that was one of the most touching aspects of the experience. I saw elderly couples, middle aged groups, teenagers, and children who looked to be about four years old. Yet, everyone came out of the theater with their Michael Jackson lanyard around their neck.

More than the King of Pop, Michael Jackson was is the voice of several generations. I think back to "We Are the World" and it becomes clear that he really had a universal message to send. If you go see, "This Is It," I'm sure that message will become clear.

"I'm starting with the man in the mirror/I'm asking him to change his ways/And no message could have been any clearer/If you wanna make the world a better place/Take a look at yourself and then make a change" --MJ

Electric Wire Hustle

Above, you will see my new pictorial masterpiece that I believe perfectly describes
this band I just heard.

Right about now, you're probably wondering, "Ashley, what kind of drugs are you on?" And the answer would be that I just finished reading my Psychology homework and I am high on life. As you may have guessed, Psyc 001 didn't really do the trick for me but Electric Wire Hustle sure did. The reason it took me approximately 10 hours to complete 30 pages of reading, simply comes down to the fact that I was distracted by their myspace.

When I listen to Electric Wire Hustle, I hear an amazing Motown vibe coming from this group of three charming men. People use the term-neo soul quite often but EWH really has something authentically old school about their sound.

So, now you're probably wondering what these pictures have to do with EWH.
Well, I will tell you.

The Roots: EWH has the same hip-hop soul vibe of Philly-favorite, The Roots. Also, an admirable quality that both groups share is that....(drum roll please) they both play their own music- crazy isn't it!

Marvin Gaye: As I said before, there is something authentically old school about this group that I can't really put a finger on. Once you have a listen, though, I'm sure you'll feel it- very reminiscent of Marvin Gaye. Listen to "They Don't Want"- featuring a little Mayfield influence as well (on myspace)!

Kiwi: And finally the big mystery of my pictorial tapestry-- the Kiwi. Despite their soulful, Motown-esque sound, EWH is from none other than New Zealand! Crazy, right?! I mean, I can't name any musicians from New Zealand (although I admit that this is because of my ignorance of New Zealand's culture and not because of the quality of their music). But when you listen to these guys, I'm sure that you, like I, would never guess that they were Kiwi's (and rather ripe looking if I may say so myself).

So here's an actual picture of Electric Wire Hustle

And here's their video for, "Perception." Check out their myspace for more!

"3"- Britney Spears

Only a matter of seconds before this video is removed (copyright) haha but I wanted to at least try to share it. I love Britney Spears and I am 100% not ashamed to admit it. Because I have been spending the last hour listening to her newest single, "3" (while I should have been reading Psychology), I wanted to post it on here. This is for all of your hermits who haven't heard this infectious song yet.

Now let's be clear: the lyrics are rather....lackluster. But Britney always had ridiculous production and the writing is so catchy. Even the boys in middle school who claimed to hate "Baby One More Time" were rocking out to it at every school dance. So let's at least give her credit where it's due.

This is not the official video- rather, it is a mash up of her previous videos (tears of nostalgia) .



Okay so even if you hate Britney Spears, you can't tell me this isn't catchy. I mean, you could tell me that but by the end of the day you'll be hating me because you can't get it out of your head.

Jay Z Rhapsody Commercial

How hot is this? I love it!! You have to know a little about his Discography to get it...

Kanye West Strikes Again

In Case You Missed It.

Jay Z takes on Madison Square Garden on 9/11

So, allegedly, there was controversy about whether or not it is okay to perform on 9/11. I don't really understand why. Sure, I think that we should take time to remember the heros and victims of 9/11 but I don't think the earth should stand still. Anywho, I found this clip on TMZ and enjoyed it so I wanted to share.

Also, I loves me some John Mayer. Watch the whole thing- it gets better toward the middle.

Scarlett Johansson

Have you ever stayed up so late watching VH1 that music videos actually come on? Crazy phenomenon isn't it? Who would think that VH1 ("Video Hits One") would actually play music videos? Well it turns out that between approximately 3am and 6am that's exactly what they do and I saw a whole bunch of nifty videos.

Now the Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson video wasn't my favorite music video but I was pleasantly surprised by Scarlett Johansson's voice.
Check out "Relator."

So here's the deal: Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson are set to release a series of duets, titled "Break Up." (ZOMG! it's like Sunny and Cher!) Judging from "Realtor" I think this might be a worthwhile investment. "Break Up" Comes out September 15th but you can
pre-order it and get the details here.

Jeremy Messersmith

I found Jeremy Messersmith this Summer while looking for music during my internship at Atlantic. When I selected, "Franklin Avenue," on his Myspace, I heard the voice of
a Demi-God
...no, more like a Semi-God
...I don't know but it was definitely something divine!

I love Elliott Smith's music, and if you know me, you know that I frequently complain that I will never get to see him live. But, when I heard "Franklin Avenue" I was instantly reminded of Elliott Smith and instantly fell in love with Jeremy Messersmith.

I knew immediately that he must be the son of Elliott Smith
...but I've found no supporting evidence for this hypothesis.
Upon listening to the rest of his work, it's clear that Messersmith is not a replica of Elliott Smith but the influence is undeniable.

I saw this link to Jeremy's new song on his Twitter and I love it.
Check out, " A Girl, a Boy, and a Graveyard"

City Line

Yay- a Philly band! So, I heard about City Line by following World Cafe Live's "Philly Rising" open mic. For some reason, this band brings me back to my childhood. Reminds me a little of Howie Day or Gavin Degraw (okay so maybe not really my childhood) but there are four of them! City Line is a quartet of young men from Philadelphia and the surrounding area. Their harmonies are so beautiful and heartfelt. I'm not sure if I've fallen in love, simply because I'm a girl, but I think they're worth a listen.

No videos. not even any pictures. Sorry for the lack of digital media in this post, but if you go to this link, you can hear their music!

La Toya Jackson est Crazy!

Please watch this video:

Wallpaper Wins!

Thanks to you who voted!

Wallpaper's debut album, Doo Doo Face, drops September 22, 2009. In the meantime, check out their tunes on Myspace
(especially the infamous Combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell Remix).

So you think Wallpaper's pretty good but you still don't understand this
whole Doo Doo Face thing? Well, have no fear!
Front man Ricky Reed has recorded a video to explain:

Still don't understand what a Doo Doo Face is?
Well, neither do I but I know this album is gonna be hot!
So check it out September 22nd!

Join the Wallpaper Revolution!

Okay maybe that wasn't quite the right word.

Anyway, follow this link and vote for Wallpaper as many times as you want!
Voting ends Friday so vote all week!


Vote TEAM WALLPAPER here!

That's all.

Jason Castro Single Out, and I Just Fell In Love...Again!

So, if you read my previous post on Jason Castro, you'd know how excited I am for this album to come out. Well, today one of my fellow interns informed me that Jason's debut single has come out....and it's my favorite song, "Let's Just Fall In Love." So, obviously, you can purchase this song on iTunes. If you go to his myspace page, there is a 30 second teaser (breaking my heart). Anyway, I highly suggest checking out this song. Also, while you're on his myspace page you'll notice that there are a few perks of pre-ordering his CD. The more you want to pay, the more perks there are...but anyway I digress. I can only show live versions, because I know WMG will immediately remove all other content.

Check out, "Let's Just Fall In Love."

I Can't Pick My Wedding Song!

I need help people! So like every girl, and her mother, and her grandmother, and so on, I've been planning my wedding. For the past few years I've been set on James Morrison's "Better Man," but yesterday when I was in Staples, I used Shazam (best iPhone app ever) to discover Ray LaMontagne's "Hold You In My Arms." They're both so beautiful! Help!

"Better Man" James Morrison

"Hold You In My Arms"- Ray LaMontagne

And for those of you wondering, no, I am not engaged.

Jonas Myrin

I love this man.

First, he's very attractive.
Second, he has an accent.
Third, he plays music.
What else could I ask for in a man?

Once again, no videos but I included a picture
Check out his myspace

The Yearbooks

I was browsing for music on the Windy City Rock blog
(an awesome blog you should check out) and found this band that
I fell in love with. Trouble is- they only have one song. The Yearbooks
are a Chicago pop/rock band with a cool, laid back, west coast vibe.
They're currently recording their debut EP, "Have A Great Summer,"
which I cannot wait for! I couldn't find the music video for their
singular song, "Season of Love"
but check out their myspace to listen to it!

not so sure about this picture...

Paolo Pictures, as promised

Now that I have met all my boyfriends (James Morrison, Dave Barnes, and Paolo Nutini), what will I do with my life?

2AM Club

I love this band. As part of my A&R project this summer, I spent a lot of time on music blogs and myspace and came upon 2AM Club and was pumped to submit them...until I found out they were already on RCA. Oh well, good music is good music.

This video is terrible quality so I suggest going to their
myspace but check out "Nobody is in Love."

Cody ChesnuTT

Oh My God! Cody ChesnuTT is on an Axe commercial?!

I've been listening to Cody ChesnuTT since The Roots featured him on their single, "The Seed 2.0," (2002). After falling in love with that song, I purchased ChesnuTT's debut album (and only album), "The Headphone Masterpiece." This album is very interesting in the way it was recorded. As the title suggests, it was a very low-budget recording. Not only because ChesnuTT didn't really have the funds, but more because that's just his style. Influenced by the rudimentary set up of old school recordings, ChesnuTT recorded his two-disc album, using a four-track.

Anyway, this isn't a review of Headphone Masterpiece, but I suggest checking it out if you're interested in a neo-soul throwback (Marvin Gaye-esque).

But check out his song, "Look Good in Leather" on this Axe commercial- seven years after the album was released! Gotta love it.

Summer Wrap Up

So, today was my last day as an A&R intern at Atlantic Records and it is by far the saddest day of the summer...probably the saddest day of 2009.

This summer has been so amazing. I really can't even write about all of it in this blog or else it would go on forever and ever. I had the most amazing bosses in the world. My fellow interns were also incredible and I couldn't have asked to be surrounded by better people. The music! ah! where do we start. So many concerts this summer, so much new music, so much of it that I have yet to write about-but it's coming.

I guess I just wanted to say that for anyone interested in the music industry, I highly recommend trying out an internship. You might think you know everything there is to know about music, but there's always more to learn. As they always say, "the only thing I know is that I know nothing." I learned so much this summer and was so fortunate to be able to work at Atlantic.

Please feel free to email me with questions about my internship or my summer experience. I can't get you an internship, but if you'd like to talk about interning in the music industry, I'd be more than happy to share my experiences.

Lastly, I've compiled a list of my summer favorites- enjoy!

Atlantic Artists

Laura Izibor
Paolo Nutini
3oh!3
Hope
Jason Castro
Marc Broussard
Anya Marina (Chop Shop)
The Virgins
Matt Hires

Favorite Unsigned Acts

Par Avion
Wallpaper.
The Yearbooks
Jeremy Messersmith
Kalai
James David Carter
Silya
Kill The Alarm
Venus Infers
Cool Kid Collective
Snowsera
Bright Like Japan

Lastly, shout out to my grandmother who reads my blog! Love you!!

Paolo Week

A lot of people have been asking about Paolo so I decided to write a little summary.

Tuesday: Paolo came to the office before his show to have a few meetings and then performed a small set for the staff which was amazing. Here's a clip of him playing my favorite song from his new album (Sunny Side Up), "Coming Up Easy."




After the show, I got the chance to meet Paolo (and take a picture!). It was a very exciting day for me, I can't even really describe it- such an amazing opportunity. Last night I went back home to Philly to catch Paolo playing with Erin McCarley (check her out!) and Matt Hires.

Pictures to come!

The Philadelphia Experiment- Remixed

I was checking out vinyl this evening and I returned to the website of my former employer, Ropeadope Records-- and there I found something which took my breath away.

So you don't know The Philadelphia Experiment or King Britt? Well all I have to say is you don't know anything about the Philadelphia independent music scene but no worries- that's what I'm here for. In short, The Philadelphia Experiment is/was a collaborative between Philly natives ?uestlove (drums), Christian McBride (bass) , and Uri Caine (piano) [yay for diversity!].

The sound? Modern Jazz.

So what happens when you mix the jazzy sound of The Philadelphia Experiment with Philly DJ, King Britt? The Answer: magic.

GO BUY THIS!

ON TUESDAY JULY 21ST, PAOLO NUTINI WILL BE PLAYING AN INTIMATE SET AT ATLANTIC

OMG!!!









until next time.

Par Avion

I found this group earlier this week and upon hearing one song, I fell in love. Par Avion is an electronica, dance, auto-tuned, rock band from Chicago. If you've heard of 3Oh!3 it's a similar sound, but with more of a house/techno feel. Definitely my favorite find of the week.

Check out, "Love Me Digital"

Fun Music Activity- My Life According to Elliott Smith

I found this on Facebook and it was really fun for me to fill out so I figured I'd post it here for you music lovers. enjoy. fill it out- spread the love. feel free to leave your responses as comments or use it elsewhere:

Directions:

Using only song names from ONE ARTIST, cleverly answer these questions. Pass it on to 12 people you like and include me. You can't use the band I used. Try not to repeat a song title. It's a lot harder than you think! (Not when the singer is prolific and has weird song names...) Repost as "My Life According to (BAND NAME)"

Pick your artist: Elliott Smith

-Are you a male or female? Southern Belle
-Describe yourself: Coming Up Roses
-How do you feel: Lost and Found
-Describe where you currently live: Between the Bars
-If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Coast to Coast
-Your favorite form of transportation: Shooting Star
-Your best friend is: Pretty Mary K
-You and your best friends are: Everything Reminds Me Of Her
-Your favorite color is: Blue Mood
-What's the weather like: LA
-Favorite time of day: The Last Hour
-If your life was a TV show, what would it be called: Little One
-What is life to you: Needle in the Hay
-Your last relationship: Cupid's Trick
-Your Fear: I Don't Think I'm Ever Gonna Figure It Out
-What is the best advice you have to give: Don't Go Down
-If you could change your name, you would change it to: Sweet Adeline
-Thought for the day: Let's Get Lost
-How you would like to die: Wouldn't Mama Be Proud
-Your soul's present condition: A Passing Feeling
-Your motto: A Distorted Reality Is Now A Necessity To Be Free

Jason Castro

Remember the white guy with dread locks from season seven of
American Idol?

No...? maybe this picture will help.

Anyway, Jason Castro is now signed to Atlantic Records and working on his debut album and from the rough edits that I've heard so far- sounds amazing. I can't really say anything about the content- but I'm super excited for it to come out this year and you guys should definitely pick it up. Consider this a warning

Locksley

Like the Beatles? Like The Monkees?

You'll like Locksley!

Soo infectious.

Check out "Why Not Me (Why Can't I Be You)"

I also love,"Don't Make Me Wait." I suggest checking them both out.

Kalai

I first heard Kalai about three years ago, when he was featured as the free single of the week on iTunes. I instantly fell in love and was persuaded to buy more. It's quite hard to describe Kalai's sound but he reminds me of Paolo Nutini. Definitely worth a listen

On My Mind

Rising Up

Long overdue I know. But, I've seen The Roots twice in like 3 weeks so I was kind of in the mood. That and I was in the Illadelph all weekend. In case you haven't gathered by now, I love The Roots. I also love Chrisette Michelle. So nothing excites me more than this music video!

Rising Up

In Honor of the Fourth

So, I stole this video/song from one of my fellow interns (jodanchalz AKA Jodan {pronounced yo dan}) and I kind of feel bad about it but sharing is caring. Check out Sufjan Steven's version of the Star Spangled Banner.



If you like Sufjan Stevens, you should check out one of his albums. My favorite of his is "Illinois."

As a side note, I saw The Roots on the Parkway in Philly yesterday for the Fourth of July and they played Chicago's "Saturday in the Park." For those of you who don't get the irony, the first line is "Saturday/In the park/ I think it was the Fourth of July." For those of you who did get the irony...sorry.

Michael Jackson

Obviously, this has been a touchy subject for that last few days- not just for Americans, not just for fans of music, but for everyone around the world. Through it all, I've been delighted by comments and disappointed by others. But today I was on youtube and found this amazing video. You might recall the youtube sensation of Filipino prisoners performing Michael Jackson's, "Thriller."

Well, after his untimely death this past Thursday, the Filipino prisoners have returned with a tribute to the King of Pop. This video was a real tear-jerking for me, one of the first things to make this all seem real. Both sad and inspirational, this video is evidence of Michael Jackson's influence around the world.




I pray for the Jackson Family that all of the rumors of this tragedy will end soon and that they will be able to have the appropriate space to remember Michael Jackson for the man that he was. Let us not remember Michael for his tragic death, but rather, let us celebrate his enduring legacy and how he taught the world to come together, through music.

Rosey

Tonight, I was on a search for new music. I think David Ryan Harris is quite amazing and I also think he has a great taste in music so I headed to his myspace page and I am so happy I did, for there, I found Rosey. One of my greatest finds of the summer so far.

Rosey is a soul/blues singer-songwriter who falls somewhere in between the likes of Norah Jones and Melody Gardot. While she reminds me of these artists a little bit, her style is unique, adding bossa nova, jazz, and old school blues to the mix. I really am lost for words when attempting to describe Rosey, so I just suggest you have a listen.

"I Remember"

From My Playlist to Yours

So, it might seem like I'm shamelessly plugging Atlantic artists this summer but let's be real: that's where I work, that's what I listen to. But have enough faith in me and my taste to know that I wouldn't post anything on here that I don't think is worth listening to. This Tuesday (June 16th) go buy Laura Izibor's debut album, "Let the Truth Be Told."

Seriously, she has an amazing voice. It's crazy to hear such a heartfelt, mature sound come from such a petite frame but Izibor is astounding. I got the chance to listen to the album all the way through, and there isn't one song that is anything short of amazing. By now, you've probably heard her radio hit, "From My Heart to Yours," and the rest of the album is just as fantastic.

Check out "From My Heart to Yours"

Wallpaper!

Okay, so anyone who has been around me for the past two days has heard me sing or play this song. ANNND I tweeted, twittered, or whatever you call it, yesterday and apparently Perez Hilton was inspired by the song...on the same day. I think he's secretly following me but anyway- he took my most amazing discovery of the summer. The song? "Combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell" It WILL change your life. The rest of their songs are quite amazing too. Check out Wallpaper.

This song will make you laugh- it's like Afro Man meets Mickey Avalon...Greatness!

Matt Hires

This one's for the ladies! But before you get too excited, Matt is married. I first heard about Matt Hires at my internship. He has an amazing voice and as you can tell from the video below, he's quite good live as well. You can check out his EP, "Live from the Hotel Cafe" on iTunes now. And his full-length debut, "Take Us To The Start" comes out July 28th. Also, as more incentive, Matt is opening for my boyfriend Paolo Nutini this summer so you should absolutely check out tour dates here.

"Honey Let Me Sing You A Song"

Baby I'm A Fool- Melody Gardot

So, I've been listening to Melody Gardot for four years now and I kept telling people that she was going to be amazing. Some agreed some didn't but Melody (who is now signed to Universal) just released her first music video, which I think is really quite good. The Song is "Baby I'm A Fool" and it's off her 2009 album, My One and Only Thrill. Check it out:

Melody Gardot - Baby I'm a Fool
Uploaded by Channel_Zero - Explore more music videos.

Under 21 Music Venues NYC

So, I've learned from my short time here that being Under 21 in New York SUCKS! I came here to go to shows and every place is 21+

But after much research, I have compiled a list of under 21 music venues in NYC. If you know of more, please feel free to add them as a comment!

Sullivan Hall
Fez
The Beacon Theater
Bowery Ballroom
Brooklyn Moon Café
Café Wha
Café Greco
Irving Plaza
Blender
The Knitting Factory
The Living Room
People’s Voice Café
Postcrypt Coffee House
Roseland Ballroom
Roulette
Sun Music Company!
Tonic (Temporarily Closed)
Webster Hall
Studio B (Friday and Saturday)

Eric Lindell

I know it's been a crazy long time since I've written but I promise I will be more on top of things this summer. I just moved to NYC for the summer (follow that experience on my twitter at twitter.com/ashleytheintern). Aside from interning at Atlantic Records, I just took on a street team job with Creative Entertainment Group. Free concerts- can't complain.

So, through my work at CEG, I found out about an artist named Eric Lindell, who will be performing at Sullivan Music Hall next Thursday on May 28th. I will be there and you should definitely check it out. Lindell is actually pretty old school although his sound is very modern and hip. I guess he would be described as (here goes another crazy genre) blues-funk-rock fusion (sorry I just like the word "fusion." Definitely check him out on his website and come to the show!

Here's Eric at Sullivan Hall Two years ago: "Cassanova"

Ashley, the Intern

So, last week, I interviewed at Atlantic Records and today, I heard back from them and it looks like I will be interning there this summer in the A&R department!!!!

For anyone who knows me personally, you know that this has been a dream of mine since...well, since pretty much forever and I am ecstatic!! (Too bad I have 3 papers to write for tomorrow). Anywho, so how amazing is this! That's all for now- more to come probably later, when I can think straight.

For those of you who can't share my excitement because you don't know what an A&R is, a little Wiki Knowledge for you:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A&R

Follow my experience at: twitter.com/ashleytheintern

Gabe Dixon Band

I think my mother secretly birthed me in the south. I mean, that's the only explanation that I have for my new love of singer/songwriters from Tennessee. Last night, I went to see Dave Barnes (again). And for you loyal followers, no, I am not talking about DB again. Rather, I this blog is about his opener, the Gabe Dixon Band. So, needless to say the Gabe Dixon Band is also from Tennessee.

Gabe didn't really strike me, or other people in the crowd as the musician-type. In fact, when he came on stage, everyone kept asking "is that him?" while others insisted, "No, he's just in the band." But when Gabe opened his mouth and started playing the piano, I was pleasantly surprised.

Not only was Gabe quite good, but the rest of his three-person band was pretty good as well. If you like DB, you should listen to Gabe- since apparently, Dave is a HUGE (almost stalker-ish) fan of Gabe. The story is interesting- it involves Dave creepily moving in on Gabe at the YMCA...I think the story is best told by Dave..and the only way to hear it is to go to a show! ha!

Anyway, the show as a whole was great. Gabe Dixon Band opened, Dave Barnes performed, and then the Gabe Dixon Band joined the Dave Barnes Band for a little double band encore which was great. (As a side note, Gabe co-wrote some of Dave's songs on his new album).

So, without further ado, check out the Gabe Dixon Band: "Till You're Gone"



Also, as a related note. I posted this before in my Dave Barnes interview, but you all should really check out the Mocha Club. Dave is heavily involved in it and Gabe is also a member. It's a really great organization.

Fools for April

It took me forever to find this song, so you better listen to it.

I was watching The Real World: Brooklyn, on MTV (yup) and I heard this song and I thought it was so beautiful. But given MTV's disinterest in music, I didn't know who the artist was. But in an attempt to become more connected with music, they created a website where you can find the name of songs that they play during the show. So, that's how I found Fools For April's "Child Inside".

Fools for April have also been featued on MTV's The City and Oxygen's Bad Girls Club (two other shows that I adore). Their debut album, "The Voice is Inside" was released on iTunes and Amazon earlier this year. I suggest checking them out. They're simple, yet quite good.

The song that I fell in love with is called "Child Inside" but I couldn't find a music video- so check out "Lie With Me" instead. The quality of this video isn't so great- so you should really just buy the CD.

Melody Gardot

For those of you who have not read my previous blog on Melody Gardot yet, read it.

For those of you who have not listened to Melody Gardot yet, listen to her!

Now that we're all caught up, Melody is releasing her new album, My One and Only Thrill, on April 28th, in the US (it has already been released in the UK). For Jazz/blues lovers, this is a must have (as is her previous album, Worrisome Heart). I don't want to give it all away but I've heard her perform some of the songs live, and it's a great album. So I wanted to give you all a heads up so you can go out a buy it.

If you're too impatient to wait, as I am, you can buy her first single, "Who Will Comfort Me," on iTunes now.

Track Listing:

1. Baby I'm A Fool

2. If The Stars Were Mine

3. Who Will Comfort Me

4. Your Heart Is As Black As Night

5. Lover Undercover

6. Our Love Is Easy

7. Les Etoiles

8. The Rain

9. My One And Only Thrill

10. Deep Within The Corners Of My Mind

11. Somewhere Over The Rainbow

More Free Music

So, this guy I've been listening to named Jonathan Clay is giving his album away for free! I'm tempted not to write anymore. I mean, what's better than free music.

But a little on Jonathan.
Southern. Acoustic. Blues. Singer-Songwriter. Rock. Dirty Blond. Occasional five-o'clock shadow. Need I say more? Go get this album, thank me later.

Download, "Acoustic Sessions" here- for FREE!

"This One's For Me"

City of Angels

This is one of my favorite bands, of all time. I am surprised I have not written about them before. I first heard of Ozomatli back in 1996 at Music Business Camp (yes, it exists and yes I went). It's really hard to describe the greatness that is Ozomatli.

Genre-wise, I guess I would call them hip-hop/latin/world music...whatever that means.
Otherwise- I would describe them as a West Coast version of The Roots, but bigger (not better, just a larger band).

Imagine the diversity of LA, on one stage and then you have Ozomatli. I really suggest you read up on the band on their website. They have a very interesting story.

If Ozomatli comes to your city, I HIGHLY suggest going to see them. Before the show that I went to, I had never heard of them but I had the time of my life (so much so that my group from Music Business Camp left me at the show). I've seen them since at Bonnaroo and they were equally as amazing. Check their tour schedule here.

In honor of my trip to LA tomorrow, enjoy, "City of Angels"

Free Music- Yay

So, my friend Tiffany L. Scalia has been telling me to check out this band, Super Mash Bros for a few months now. Of course my response was, "Tiffany, it's Super Smash Bros." But it turns out, she was actually right, for once. They describe themselves as Girl Talk's Hot Cousin. Anyway, on their website, they're giving their album, "Fuck Bitches. Get Euros," away for free. So check it out- Now!


My favorite song: Kisses and Thugs (it has all of my favorite songs ever!)

Million Faces

I know that I bashed Paolo Nutini a little bit previously. But when you pay for a concert and the performer is noticeably drunk, it tends to leave a bad taste in your mouth and a cacophonous sound in your ear. But I have been listening to Paolo Nutini's debut album, These Streets, and I am starting to have a different opinion about the young Scot.

Here's an acoustic and sober (?) version of my favorite song on These Streets, "Million Faces"




Interesting fact: Paolo is only 22, which makes him 2 years older than me. Which means, we could have a future together. More to come.