I’m running against a deadline today; we are heading up to a secluded cabin for James’ 30th birthday this afternoon, so I am going to try and keep things short and sweet (hence the stripped down post for this week… but it’s about the music anyway, right?!?!). With that, let’s go!
Beth Rowley – Nobody’s Fault But Mine
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_bethrowley-nobodysfaultbutmine.mp3]
Wow. I mean seriously. I saw her CD recommended on amazon.co.uk, and after seeing her compared to Karen Carpenter, I knew I had to have it. I am glad that I snagged it too; this CD is pretty damn good. This song in particular shows her soul influence and makes for a fantastic ballad. I love the bluesy feel, and her old voice really compliments the lament of her realizing she made the mistake, and that she has to live with the consequences. Keep an eye on Beth Rowley, I have a feeling she is going to be pretty big.
M83 – Graveyard Girl
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_m83-graveyardgirl.mp3]
I know what you must be thinking, isn’t this the Cure?? Because I will admit, I got the same vibe! However, this group uses that influence to craft a great and enjoyable song (regardless of the pretty dark and macabre lyrics!!!), along with an album that truly makes you think of driving around in the summertime with the top back. Their album is a lot of fun, and I have been enjoying listening to it… this song is my favorite on the record so far.
Jennifer Hudson – Spotlight
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_jenniferhudson-spotlight.mp3]
This was a last minute choice on my part, because I didn’t hear this song until the other night. However, I have been a fan of Jennifer’s for a LONG time, and I have eagerly been waiting for her to finally release a record, and if this is what we have to look forward to, the wait has been worthwhile. This is a great mid-tempo R&B track that showcases her voice beautifully. I am eager to see what she has up next for us… Here’s hoping it is more goodness like this track.
Sam Sparro – Black and Gold
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_samsparro-blackandgold.mp3]
The first time I heard this song, I didn’t like it. I don’t know why, but I didn’t. However, I gave it another go after some recommendations, and I have totally turned around! This song is fun, danceable, catchy, and full of energy. Also, is it just me, or does anyone else hear the theme music from Ecco the Dolphin in the beginning??? Perhaps that is one of the other reasons I started loving it after a few listens? Either way, a great track with a definite nod to that 80s glam pop that seems to be coming back with a vengeance lately. Sam Sparro is indeed a great addition to pop, as he is correctly being touted.
Michelle Williams – We Break The Dawn
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_66_michellewilliams-webreakthedawn.mp3]
This song shocked me. This is not what I was expecting from the member of Destiny’s Child that clearly can’t dance (it’s okay Michelle, we still love you girl!). This song is club ready, and is a perfect track to begin the summer. There are a lot of crappy dance-type tracks that come out this time of year, but this one is fresh and fun. I hope that there is more of this up Michelle’s sleeve, because I am definitely paying attention to her now!
There you go, five fresh songs for this week! I hope that you enjoyed them!!! Let me know what you think, and have a great weekend!