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2008 releases artists artists to watch for in 2009 digital downloads guitar music

Thursday Roundup – Gnarls Barkley, Ben Nichols and Denison Witmer

It’s been a while since I’ve done a roundup post, so here are the tunes that have been spinning in my iTunes this week.

Gnarls Barkley – Who’s Gonna Save My Soul?


Gnarls Barkley - Who’s Gonna Save My Soul?You know, it still strikes me as strange that certain people only know Gnarls Barkley as that “Crazy” duo, when there’s so much more to them than that one tune. This song, the demo version of “Who’s Gonna Save My Soul?” – which incidentally has a killer music video, which I’ve included below – shows off just that point.
Stripped down, Cee-Lo gives this song an emotion that slays.

Listen: Gnarls Barkley – Who’s Gonna Save My Soul?

Ben Nichols – The Kid


Ben Nichols - The KidIf you’re a fan of the alt.country genre, chances are pretty good that you’ve heard Ben Nichols‘ name before, as lead singer of the always-awesome Lucero.
Nichols is releasing his solo debut full-length album sometime next year, but in the meantime, he’s just released a seven-song EP, “The Last Pale Light In The West”… which is available now (and yes, that “now” is meant to instill a sense of urgency within you), here.

If anything, I prefer Nichols’ solo output to his stuff with Lucero, and that’s saying something. Take some stripped-down, dusty guitars and a plaintive, yearning voice, and you’re close.

Listen: Ben Nichols – The Kid

Denison Witmer – Life Before Aesthetics


Denison Witmer - Life Before AestheticsYou might have heard some of Denison Witmer’s work in the past if you’re into cover songs… and if you haven’t, you might want to check out this post from the uber-excellent Cover Lay Down blog.
This song, however, is his own… and will appear on his upcoming album, “Carry The Weight“, which is due out in November. It’s a killer track, and one which really has me excited for November.

Listen: Denison Witmer – Life Before Aesthetics

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2008 releases artists to watch for in 2009 digital downloads guitar music

Amiestreet and Brett Dennen – Hope for the Hopeless

Brett Dennen - Hope for the Hopeless

So as I mentioned in a past post, Brett Dennen and Amiestreet have teamed up to make the world a better place with some charity. It’s unfortunate that this happened while I was away on holiday, as by the time you read this post, you will only have a few hours left to get in on the action… as the charity preorder is running until today, the 27th October. I know that’s a confusing way to begin a post, but I thought I should get the important information out of the way first… now, onto more detail.

Brett Dennen was one of the first posts I actually made here on Burgo’s Blog. Having at the time just heard Dennen’s outstanding “Ain’t No Reason” from the “So Much More” album, I was blown away by the potential that this young kid exhibited.
Overall, however, I felt that Dennen’s true possibilities were still undiscovered… while “So Much More” had it’s highlights (particularly the aforementioned “Ain’t No Reason” and “She’s Mine”), the album didn’t quite live up to its highlights. In the end, I was left wanting… more. I knew that Brett Dennen could deliver, but it didn’t seem his time was quite right.

Fast forward to October 2008. I’m on an island in Vanuatu, when an email drops in my inbox from Zane at Amiestreet.com to let me know that Brett Dennen was releasing his album “Hope for the Hopeless”, and that it would be made available on AmieStreet.com as part of the website’s ongoing Download To Make A Difference campaign. For each album purchased, AmieStreet.com will donate $5 to the Mosaic Project, an organization of close personal significance to Brett Dennen.

First off, let me just say that I really like what Amiestreet are doing. They seem to have the right mindset to really make a difference, and I appreciate that.
Secondly, however, another part of me was slightly apprehensive. Would Brett Dennen finally live up to the potential that I was so sure he possessed?

After living with this album for the week that I’ve now been back from the islands, I can say that Dennen’s definitely on the right road. “Hope for the Hopeless” is a far more accomplished album that “So Much More”, and in some ways hearkens back to his self-titled debut.
In particular, songs such as “Closer to You” and “Who Do You Think You Are?” are signals that Dennen is growing exponentially as an artist.
And the unexpected “Make You Crazy”, featuring personal favourite Femi Kuti in an over-too-soon cameo, completely throws you for a loop… in a great way.

Overall, I think there are still depths to Brett Dennen’s capacity as an artist that haven’t been reached; but “Hope for the Hopeless” is a great growth-spurt. I’ll still be watching him with much faith and keen interest.

Check out Amiestreet’s interview with Dennen here, and you can also order the album at the end of the interview.

Here’s some tasters, though, to whet your appetite…

Listen: Brett Dennen – Heaven
Listen: Brett Dennen – Who Do You Think You Are?
Listen: Brett Dennen – Make You Crazy

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2008 releases artists to watch for in 2009 digital downloads guitar music

The Sand Band – The Secret Chord

I’m quite late to the party on these guys, having first read about The Sand Band way back in August on that awesomeness of music blogs, Some Velvet Blog. I filed away the band for listening at a later date, and it somehow slipped between the cracks… until now.

The Sand Band
The Sand Band

I’m not sure if it’s just been one of “those” weekends; or the fact that I was watching the “Jeff Buckley… live in Chicago” DVD last night… but The Sand Band’s “The Secret Chord EP” is strikingly, achingly beautiful on this Monday morning.

A wistful, world-weary tone permeates David McDonnell’s lyrics in this EP, which is washed over by spacey echoes, pedal steel guitar and an acceptance that comes to us all.

The reason I mentioned Jeff Buckley up above is obviously referring to the title track from The Sand Band’s EP: “The Secret Chord”. When Leonard Cohen originally penned the line, “Now I’ve heard there was a secret chord/That David played, and it pleased the Lord“, I wonder if he realised just how deeply those words would resonate for years to come?
And – especially when Jeff Buckley performed the song live – it becomes clear to the listener just how much that line indicated a search for that “secret chord”. Certainly – to me at least – “Hallelujah” has always cried out like no other for a “follow up”… or an attempt at resolution.

In their song, “The Secret Chord”, the Sand Band have done just that… there’s a certain sense of completion that comes when listening to the song. It’s almost as if the missing piece of that puzzle has come together… that piece that’s been hidden underneath the couch, ever since the first time I heard Leonard Cohen utter those words and point out to me that something was missing in the first place. They’ve lifted the couch and shown me that piece, and I’ve finished that damn puzzle.

And I can’t tell you how good that feels.

For those who need to feel the same… Listen. Love. Support.

Listen: The Sand Band – The Secret Chord

Oh, and by the way… for those of you who want to hear more from this band, if you click through to the Velvet Blog post linked to above, there’s a little present for you at the end of that post…


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2008 releases artists artists to watch for in 2008 digital downloads guitar music music videos

The Avett Brothers – Murder in the City Video

Short note today… but just wanted to let everyone know that The Avett Brothers have released their new video for single “Murder in The City” (featured in this post back here)… and it’s a killer video (no pun intended).

Beautifully filmed, like the song itself, the video is full of quiet moments. Watch it below.

Beautiful…

And here, once again, for those of you who missed it the first time around:

Listen: The Avett Brothers – Murder in the City

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2008 releases artists digital downloads guitar Inspirational thoughts music

Bill Madden – Child of the Same God

So, a few weeks ago, Diana from MADMUSE got in touch with me to let me know that they were sending me a pre-release copy of Bill Madden‘s new album, “Child of the Same God”. (Sidenote: I love it when overseas agencies don’t mind paying the international postage and send original copies all the way to Australia. It gives me the warm and fuzzies.)
Anyway, sure enough, a week or two later, “Child of the Same God” landed on my doorstep… and I’ve pretty much been playing it non-stop since then. It’s that good.

Bill Madden - Child of the Same God

Now, I’ll be honest; I hadn’t heard much of Bill Madden before Diana got in touch with me. But according to the release that was sent along with the album, Madden is an “activist musician, who’s work is often described at alternative folk“. To be honest, I wouldn’t personally place Bill Madden in the alt.folk scene… at least, not in the sense that regular readers around these parts would expect. But activist? Most certainly. You only have to take one look at his website to see that he wears that side of himself on his sleeve, and it’s certainly reflected in the tunes that appear on “Child of the Same God”.

From the album’s opening track of “Unfair”, it’s clear that Bill Madden is an artist that has something to say… and that outspokeness is continued through each and every song on the album. To some, I can see that being a hindrance; after all, it’s not an “easy” album. That said, those who leave it with a single initial listen are missing out… “Child of the Same God” is the quintessential “replay” album – the more you listen to it, the more it grows on you. In that respect (and also in individual songs, such as “Empire”), Madden strongly recalls – for me, at least – hints of another Burgo Blog favourite, Gregory Page. And those who have read this blog in the past would know that I mean that as high praise indeed.

Overall, the album is really a mixture of poetry, activism, and plain ol’ awesome music… and one that I would highly suggest.
The one thing that makes it hard to review and album such as this is Madden’s sheer versatility: there’s some rock in there, some minimalist tunes, some b;ues-influenced, and even some reggae rythyms in there.

Luckily, MADMUSE has given me permission to post a few songs on here as tasters, so I decided to go with three tunes: the opening track, “Unfair”, title track “Child of the Same God”, and “Bosko and Admira”.
“Unfair” opens the album with the unforgettable lines “Old soul, It’s a slipping down life“… but goes on to proclaim Bill Madden’s ultimate message of fighting optimism, with the refrain:

“Listen to your heart
And follow
The road less travelled
Listen to the voice
But beware
Life can seem unfair”
– Bill Madden, “Unfair”

Listen: Bill Madden – Unfair

Title track “Child of the Same God” is perhaps the most accessible of the album’s tracks in terms of mainstream usability; but it doesn’t let up Madden’s questioning of our society for one second. It’s a cracking tune, and one who’s calm strings belie an anger and grief bubbling below the surface.

“Why do we indulge
These messengers of fear
And meekly capitulate
As our freedom disappears
What’s going on
When it’s you against me
Voices of reason
Their silence is deafening
May God’s grace guide our way
May God’s grace guide our way
We’re all one
Child of the same God”
– Bill Madden, “Child of the Same God”

Listen: Bill Madden – Child of the Same God

The final tune I’m including below is perhaps the most narrative-driven of all the songs on the album: “Bosko and Admira”, which tells the tale of the “Sarajevo Romeo and Juliet” (who you can learn more about here)
It’s a haunting tale, and one you should read.

“On the banks of the river
Forbidden love and
Blood run together
Forbidden love and
Blood run together
Ah, I hear the children play
Ah, Sarajevo Serenade
Ah…”
– Bill Madden, “Bosko and Admira”

Listen: Bill Madden – Bosko and Admira

Ultimately, the lyrics above really don’t do justice to Madden’s music; you have to hear him singing these songs, voice cracking with conviction and passion to truly understand the album. And I suggest you do.
Bill Madden’s “Child of the Same God” is due out Oct 14.

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2008 releases artists digital downloads guitar live songs music music videos

Bon Iver – New EP free on Myspace

Ok… so this isn’t so much a post as an announcement to all Bon Iver fans. Bon Iver (now more than just Justin Vernon, as pointed out here… now a full band) recently contributed to the Myspace Transmissions series; and they’re now offering the entire EP (four songs) for free download. For fans, this is a must. The EP features stunning versions of “For Emma“, “Flume“, “Lump Sum” and “Blindsided“. Head here to download the entire thing.

That is all.

Bon Iver – "For Emma" from MySpace Transmissions

Bon Iver – “For Emma”, live on Myspace Transmissions

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2008 releases artists artists to watch for in 2009 digital downloads guest posts guitar music music videos

Guest Post – Josh Moore

Ed’s Note: The following is a guest post from Rachel Morris, a regular reader here on Burgo’s Blog. This is something I’m hoping to make a regular feature on Burgo’s Blog. Too often I get emails from people who write with such beauty about music they’re into, but who feel like they don’t have a forum to make their opinions heard. And, seeing as it’s the readers who have always made this blog what it is, I thought: “Why not take this a step further?”. So, if you’re interested in featuring via a guest post on this blog, then drop me an email at matthew.edward.burgess[at]gmail dot com. In the meantime, here’s Rachel…

 

****

Hi. I’m Rachel. Now, I know you may have been looking forward to your Burgo dose for the day, and rightfully so. But Mr. Matt Burgess has so kindly given me the opportunity to share some sweet music with you. I definitely appreciate his willingness to mix it up and let me indulge in the cathartic process of music chat… And I assure you that the music you’re about to hear is worth your while.

Josh Moore
Josh Moore (image credit: joshuahoffmanphoto.com)

SO, about the music. (Because that is what this is about)
Around six months ago I began listening to a guy by the name of Josh Moore.
I came upon him through the founder of the movement To Write Love On Her Arms – Jamie Tworkowski (amazing movement and amazing guy). Jamie had Josh’s song “Ghostly Reminders” posted on the TWLOHA page, and I gave it a listen. I couldn’t get enough. And I just couldn’t shake that song. So naturally, I wanted to hear more. Well, I came to find out that while this Josh Moore has seven solid songs available for purchase on snocap, he doesn’t have an album.

And I’m baffled. Because even though his vocals rival the best of the best (in my book), he has no record deal. To understand how ridiculous this seems, take a listen for yourself. If you’re the Burgo fans I think you are, you’ll find that this guy is quality. Qua-lit-y. In describing Josh Moore’s music… it’s a rare breed of disarming honesty and genuineness partnered with pure rock ‘n’ roll soul. I mean soul. As you begin to listen, you know it’s coming from a real authentic place. And that’s special! It really is a gift.

Sure, it’s easy for me to spread the word about music I adore. But I especially wanted to share Josh’s music with you because he deserves to be known. Sadly, though I’ve tried my darndest to find any sliver of info on his recording status, I don’t know what the deal is. However, what’s exciting is that he’s been pretty consistent in posting new tunes on his myspace, which leads me think an album is on its way. (Hopefully.) But, for now, we can savor what we’ve got, and lend Josh the support he deserves. His career in music looks pretty bright and colorful.

You can purchase his songs on snocap via his myspace page linked to above, and be sure you catch his EPK here. “Streaked Faces” is too beautiful.

Also, if you’re interested in To Write Love on Her Arms, definitely check out the youtube video of Josh playing a cover of Josh Ritter’s “Idaho” here. Jamie Tworkowski talks about the movement and introduces Josh.

Take it in and pass it on. Thanks for your time and peace to you.

****

Ed’s notes:

I’ve included the track that Rachel mentions above, “Ghostly Reminders“, here as a taster. It really is a cracking tune, so give it a listen.

Listen: Josh Moore – Ghostly Reminders

Also, I’ve embedded the youtube video that Rachel linked to above below… to be honest, I’m not familiar with the “To Write Love on Her Arms” organisation at all, but Josh’s singing (which begins about 3 minutes in to the video is awesome… probably helped by the fact that he’s covering one of my favourite artists)


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2008 releases artists artists to watch for in 2008 music videos

Joe Pug news – A new signing, a new video, and tour dates announced

First off, thanks to Sharyn at No Door Agency for dropping me a line, and keeping me abreast of all the developments in Joe Pug‘s career.

I first covered Joe Pug on this blog back here, with this post: Joe Pug – Nation of Heat. A thoroughly impressive debut …
I was instantly captivated by Joe’s music; it was – quite simply – the most impressive debut I had heard in 2008… and that accolade still stands.

As I mentioned in that post, Joe Pug wants his music to be heard; in fact, he wants you to give his music away. Send in your mailing address, and he’ll send you back some sampler CDs for you to distribute to your friends (along with, I might add, a really appreciative hand-written note). When mine arrived in the post, I spread them around to a few friends… and requests have been coming in fast and furious from people who want to hear more.

So, it was with much happiness that I heard from Sharyn that Joe has now officially signed on with Monterey International (take a look at their roster and you’ll see how impressive this is), and in addition has an upcoming fall tour. And, to top it all off, Joe’s just released the official music video for killer track, “Hymn #101”, directed by Sam Molleur, which I’ve included below. Interesting side-note to go with the video? Joe actually visited a ghost town in California and had to break into a locked-up old tavern to film it. Heh. Dodgy legal issues aside… it’s a cracking video, and hopefully should do wonders for Joe in terms of attracting attention.

Watch it below:

 



Joe Pug “Hymn #101” Video

 


Honestly, I could not be happier for this kid
(and yes, he’s younger than me, so I can call him a kid). He’s everything that music should be: poignant, compassionate, intelligent… and he’s a damn nice dude to go with it, who really goes that extra step to foster relationships with his fans.
Just as I voiced in my last post: Let’s help this music be heard. Spread the word, tell a friend. Add your voice to the crowd.

I’ve included Joe’s tour dates below. If I was in the US, I’d be there in a heartbeat. If you can, get there.

Tour Dates

9/10 South Bend, IN  *
9/18 Chicago, IL  Park West >
10/3 Chicago, IL   The Hideout (w/ full band)
10/5 Charleston, WV   Mountain Stage
10/10 Indianapolis, IN   Radio Radio #
10/11 Pittsburgh, PA   Mr. Smalls &
10/12 Westhampton, NY   Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center ^
10/14 Buffalo, NY   Univ. of Buffalo Performing Arts Center ^
10/15 Harrisburg, PA  Whitaker Center^
10/23 New York, NY   CMJ Music Marathon @ Arlene’s Grocery
11/1 Ames, IA   The Maintainance Shop +
11/2 Dubuque, IA   Jansen Music Hall at Clark College+
11/14 Columbia, MO   Bluebird Music and Arts Festival

* with Robert Randolph
> with Kasey Chambers
# with Justin Townes Earle
^ with Susan Tedeschi
& with Railroad Earth
+ with Pieta Brown