The 10 Best Dolly Parton Songs (Plus One More)
Dolly Parton was perhaps the first country mega-star, and the first to successfully crossover into pop music. These are her 10 finest achievements.
Jeff Koch
Jeff Koch is a writer and music lover, and has been for about as long as he can remember. After winning his high school's Battle of the Bands co-fronting Gabe and The Northways with his best pals, he decided to quit while he was ahead. He instead pursued a degree in journalism from Biola University. His writing can be found in the Orange County Register, Colorado Springs Independent and, of course, PopMatters. He has a blog, and tweets from @jeffkochisok.
Tigers Jaw: Charmer
Adding new textures and the vocal talents of Brianna Collins, Tigers Jaw does the impossible, and that is evolve without leaving anything behind.
NEEDTOBREATHE: Rivers in the Wasteland
Even folksier than anything else they've done, Rivers in the Wasteland is uneven but not unexciting.
Memphis May Fire: Unconditional
Despite a tighter focus and compelling theme of faith, Memphis May Fire still wallows in the mediocrity of the faux-hardcore.
The Baseball Project: 3rd
The Baseball Project goes deep into the lore, heritage and shadows of the great American pastime -- and comes up with an awesome record.
Architecture in Helsinki: Now + 4Eva
Lacking their usual frenetic pace and diverse instrumentation, Architecture in Helsinki put out something surprisingly boring
Manchester Orchestra: Cope
A good record that could've been great if some of the meandering, mid-tempo rock had been dropped in favor of a signature Andy Hull acoustic ballad or two.
Foster the People: Supermodel
Supermodel is a quantum leap forward from "Pumped Up Kicks" era Foster the People. The growth of the band and the depth of this record are a pleasant surprise.
The Guggenheim Grotto – “Fee Da Da Dee” (Stream)
In honor of St. Paddy’s day, I figured we could celebrate some music straight from Ireland.
Pixies — “Greens and Blues” (Video Review)
What is wrong with you people?
Bart Davenport: Physical World
In a world where originality is king, Physical World lays its classic rock inspiration bare. The result is a fine piece of throwback pop.
Laura Cantrell: No Way There From Here
Cantrell expertly blends a host of influences, instruments, and styles into a brilliant country record. Her lovely voice is just the icing.