Five Favorite Finds

Over the past few weeks I have noticed a common theme in my Twitter thread amongst many fellow music friends…the search for new music. People want to hear new songs, new artists, new albums, and new sounds. I can’t blame them. It’s not that we are “sick and tired” of what we have been listening to, or maybe it is… Regardless, for those of us who love music, the search is never-ending. .

So where do we find new (or at least new to “us”) music? At first I was leery of bringing up new artists from different areas to this audience. However, after some consideration decided there really is no harm. Many of you may already know of these artists and listen to them regularly. Others may not. Either way, here is a list of five of my favorite discoveries.

Grace Potter & The Nocturnals This chic gets it. Rock, blues, soul… You name it she owns it. Originally from Vermont, Grace and the “Nocs” are tearing up the road and well on their way to making big waves. She is, without a doubt, the most refreshing female vocalist I’ve heard in ages (sorry Miranda). In listening to KNBT, her new single “Paris” has been getting some airtime in Texas. Though my all-time favorite Grace tunes are “Big White Gate,” “Ah Mary,” and “Joey.” It should also be noted another favorite Texas group, Jonathan Tyler & the Northern Lights, happen to be doing an opening tour for Grace, so be sure to check the schedule.

Will Hoge Okay, Mr. Hoge isn’t exactly new, but I’ve recently fallen in love with his album The Wreckage. “Goodnight/Goodbye” and “Highway Wings” are two of my personal faves. The entire lot is genius though.

Brandi Carlile Canadian. Think Lucinda Williams meets Kathleen Edwards with just a touch more sorrow, anger, and edge (depending on the song of course). “Turpentine,” “Wasted,” and “Happy” never get skipped.

The Dedringers I wouldn’t be lying if I said this particular group makes me want to light some incense, smoke something a little more green, and dance around my living room completely solo. Save me typing my favorites and just go check out their album Sweetheart of the Neighborhood.

Stephen Kellogg & The Sixers I stumbled onto these guys during a trip to Mobile last spring with my baby sister. They opened for Needtobreathe (another excellent group) at the Soul Kitchen. I left that night with more than one of the SK6ers albums and have never looked back.

That is a brief list, but it’s a start. I could have gone on, but it’s best to keep web material brief. Enjoy this week’s five favorite finds and be sure to share some of yours if you get the chance!