some music I like

It’s not secret. I like music. And lately, I’ve been trying hard to listen to a lot of different stuff, just trying to broaden my horizons musically. Here’s some stuff that I like:

Delirious: Kingdom of Comfort

I’ve never been much of a Delirious fan, but I love this new record. Thematically, it’s right where I am right now. Many of the songs are about social justice, reaching out, dealing with life, etc. It’s a smart and well written record (with the exception of a few rough tracks). Try “God is Smiling,” “Wonder,” “Break the Silence,” and “Kingdom of Comfort”

Gavin DeGraw: Self-titled

It’s been a long time coming, but finally Gavin came out with a new record. It’s pretty good for the most part. Gavin seems to be able to get away with some weird stuff that would not work for anyone else. His melodies are interesting, and some are really catchy, but I think it would be hard for anyone else to translate his songs. There’s some pretty awful tracks, but most are good. Try “Let it Go,” “I’m in Love with a Girl,” “Cop Stop,” and “Relative.”

Jonny Lang: Turn Around

This one’s a few years old, I think, but it’s really great. Jonny’s pretty talented as a writer and his grooves are sick! This albums a great lesson in playing on the back of the beat. Try “The Other Side of the Fence,” “Thankful,” and “Anything’s Possible.”

Alicia Keys, As I Am

I don’t know much about Alicia’s music, but she collaborated with John Mayer, and that’s all I need to know. Ok, not really, but I do like this record. She’s creative and emotional in her writing and singing. Try “No One,” “The Thing About Love,” and “Lesson Learned.”

India Arie, Testimony, Vol. 1 Life and Relationship

This woman is slowly taking my #2 favorite artist spot. She’s a lot like Gavin in the way that she can get away with so much in her writing. She can write so literally and still make it believable. And her voice will change your life, no doubt. If you want something real, soulful, uplifting, and downright spiritual, this is it (and all her other albums). Try “There’s Hope,” “Private Party,” “The Heart of the Matter,” and “Good Mourning.”

Guilty Pleasure – Daughtry: Self-titled

Yeah, he was an American Idol contestant. So what. Does that mean he can’t make good music… ok, maybe the odds are against him. But this is good! Well produced, well written, well performed. It’s good stuff, I promise! Try “It’s Not Over,” “What I Want,” “Breakdown,” and “Feels Like Tonight."

Ok, more later...