So how about that Peter Gene Hernandez? He is really destroying the charts right now, huh? You have a weird look on your face. Maybe this will help. Peter Gene Hernandez = Bruno Mars. That simple mathematical principle proves that this Hawaiian born soulful cat is here to stay. Bruno Mars combines old school soul swagger with contemporary pop appeal. It has been scientifically proven that his voice is causing global warming; on account of it being so hot. Scientifically = some random lady I sat behind on the train who was gushing to her crew about Mars’ mad musical skills.
Peter Gene Hernandez = Bruno Mars
We here at FreshScouts have had Bruno Mars in our ears ever since we featured him in our Weekly Jukebox back in January. This cat is smashing up the charts right now with the ultimate love song, “Just the Way You Are”. But let’s not forget about his smooth collabo with Travie McCoy on “Billionaire” and his memorable hook on B.o.B.’s “Nothin’ on You”. But wait, there’s more! Mars also co-wrote Flo Rida’s “Right Round” and K’naan’s “Wavin’ Flag”. Yeah, let’s just say that Bruno Mars knows what he is doing and he is ready to destroy with his first full album that is scheduled to drop in October.
While we wait for the October release, we offer up a sweet little gem in the form of an EP. On It’s Better If You Don’t Understand (released in May 2010), Mars delivers 4 hot tracks that showcase what he can do. Mars has the formula down and knows exactly how to get his music to the masses. That formula can do a lot of damage if put in the wrong hands. Thankfully, he uses his power for good and we are the victors. If Mars can keep himself out of trouble, he will no doubt become one of the biggest artists of 2011.
KC’s Personal Picks: “Count on Me” and “The Other Side” (featuring Cee Lo Green & B.o.B.)
Check out his live acoustic version of “Count on Me”
Buy It’s Better If You Don’t Understand
We recently featured Tyrone Wells and with his new EP, Metal & Wood, coming out March 2, 2010 we thought we should interview him. So we did. We recently caught up with Tyrone to chat about the idea behind his new EP as well as his entirely obsessive (in a good way) fan base.
In addition to an interview, we also had a opportunity to check out his live show. Not only is Tyrone an amazing singer-songwriter, he is also an incredibly funny story teller. Oh, did you know he can yodel? Well, he can and he did. Even his yodeling was out of this world. We had a chance to hear some of our favorite tracks from Remain and we got a taste of some of the new ones from Metal & Wood. The EP is a more stripped down acoustic sampling that truly highlights Tyrone’s rich voice and mastery of the guitar. “Running Around In My Dreams” is one of the many gems from this great little present from Tyrone Wells.
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Want another exclusive video interview? Of course you do! Check out what happened when we sat down to interview Findlay Brown.
When I first heard the name of this band I could not help but wonder if they also ran a house painting business or a moving company. Dare I say that the music of Mumford & Sons will paint your soul and get you up and moving? In retrospect, I wish I had not dared myself to say that. The important thing to remember is that these guys are wickedly talented and fun to listen to.
I have proven time and time again that I am a sucker for the mandolin, banjo and dobro. For proof of that you can read about my healthy crush on The Lovell Sisters. Mumford & Sons developed their sound in the London folk scene. Their music blends folk, rock and bluegrass all together with a burning lyrical intensity. A recent signing with Island Records will only help spread their music across the globe. The boys have already made a name for themselves in England, Ireland and Australia. Constant touring and a full length album in the works sets the stage for a promising 2010 for the band.
In late 2009, Mumford & Sons released their EP, Sigh No More. For me EP stands for “tiny album”. What that means is that you are going to get four tracks on this album. It satisfies, but certainly will leave you wanting more. The lead single, “Little Lion Man”, is my absolute favorite. I dare you not to tap your feet to the song. I double-dog-dare you. If you want a beautifully packaged ball of energy, “The Cave” is just what the doctor ordered.
Check out their official video for “Little Lion Man”
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Want some more foot stompin’ music? Check out The Avett Brothers.
If I were to ever take a swim in a lava lamp I would expect the music of Animal Collective to be playing in the background. “Avey Tare” (David Portner), “Panda Bear” (Noah Lennox), “Deacon” (Josh Dibb), and “Geologist” (Brian Weitz) have melted together to form the Animal Collective. Their sound is trippy, ethereal, and light with hints of darkness. I either just described amazingly creative music or a new herbal shampoo that will take you to another dimension. Either way you are going to want to take a moment and let the sound wash over you.
A collective of animals.
Animal Collective has no doubt been crowned the “buzz” indie band of 2009. Merriweather Post Pavilion has been lifted on high as if it were the second coming. There is some justification for the praise. The music pendulum is swinging again. For too long our ears have been subjected to formulaic music that is produced in a hit factory. We are now seeing the pendulum swing toward more creative and experimental sounds. What was once called “fringe” music is starting to invade mainstream pop culture in a big way. The top 40 charts and advertisers are turning more to groups like Animal Collective in an attempt to reclaim ears that are open for something different.
In an effort to capitalize on their recent success, the guys have delivered a gift to fans in the form of an EP. That is industry speak for “short album”. Fall Be Kind is a 5 track collection of songs that were left over from their recent studio work. This sweet little mix will satisfy fans until their next full album release. To get a good feel for Animal Collective you will want to give “Graze” and “What Would I Want? Sky” a spin. After a listen you may have a desire to join me for a swim in my lava lamp.
Take a listen to “Graze”
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Enjoying Animal Collective? Check out Passion Pit!
