Passion Pit - Take A Walk

Sorry guys. I've been MIA for a bit. But here I am, back from the dead, just like the artist for today. Passion Pit has been under the radar since they released their last album 'Manners' in 2009. Now, after 3 years the group is releasing a new album entitled 'Gossamer' which comes out on July 24th (to celebrate Pioneer Day for those of us in UT). Though they've ditched the falsetto singing, this song Take A Walk still carries their typical get-up-and-dance energy as usual.

The Black Keys - Tighten Up

The Black Keys have, for years, been a band that has been suggested to me numerous times. I finally checked out their stuff today and got hooked quick. Why did I wait so long? And now I just missed them live in SLC a few weeks ago which I heard was an excellent show. Anyway, these guys rock. They've got some old blues influences but still keep a pretty modern sound. They're fun to listen to and have a different sound than most other bands out there right now.

Beach House - Bloom

In a way this post breaks tradition, but it's so worth it. I'm not sure if I've posted any songs by Beach House yet, but I've been very into them recently. Today the duo released a new CD called "Bloom". It's just as amazing as I ever could've hoped for; complete with their signature floaty organ, synth, and guitar combos. You can listen to the whole thing here for free. Then go buy it on iTunes for $8.99. It's worth it. In other good news (if you live near me in SLC) Beach House is coming to the Twilight Concert Series for only $5 on July 5th. I'll see you there.

Matisyahu - Sunshine

I've always enjoyed Matisyahu's jams. The jewish reggae rapper has been throwing down under his Hebrew name Matisyahu since around 2004 (his real name is Matthew Miller). I saw him in 2010 at the Twilight Concert Series here in SLC and thought that he put on a really great show. He's coming out with a new album and has released this new single that you can download for FREE for the next 48 hours. Just click the link in the comments!

Of Monsters And Men - Dirty Paws

I always say that the best test of a band is how they are live. That's why I decided to post the live video instead of a studio recorded version of "Dirty Paws". Of Monsters And Men makes a great album but also holds their own live. They're from Iceland so their names look more like drawings than names. They are a very new band, with beginnings that barely make it back 2 years. I feel like they are a mix of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros and Angus & Julia Stone. Also check out the song "Little Talks", you may have heard it before.

Animal Collective - My Girls

I figured I'd be good and post two days in a row since I've been slacking again. My Girls by Animal Collective is full of synths, beats, samples, noises, and sounds. The music video is a real splash of color. Pretty trippy. They've actually been around since 1999 and are considered an Experimental Psychedelic band. The band is made up of Avey Tare, Panda Bear, Deakin, and Geologist. If you couldn't tell, those aren't their real names and only three of them are featured in this song. Read their Wiki article to find out more about their names. It's interesting.

The Temptations - Ain't Too Proud To Beg

Back to the 60's! Lately I've been really into these oldies with some soul like Marvin Gaye, Dianna Ross & the Supremes, and the Temptations. Talk about music that makes you wanna move. These guys all have some real talent too. I think these all make for some great summer music as well. Don't just say "Ehh that's old" and not listen to it. Give it a chance and try not to dance. I even posted a live video so you could see how very stylish all these dudes are with their cool dance moves.

Youth Lagoon - Afternoon

The weather is getting warmer and Springtime is at the door like a salesman from Vivint. I've been thinking recently how our (or at least my) music preferences can change depending on the weather/season. Youth Lagoon is the perfect good-mood-driving-around-with-the-windows-down-and-finally-enjoying-the-sun-again music. Youth Lagoon is the stage name for artist Trevor Powers from San Diego. It might be an acquired interest after a few listens, cause it's a bit different, but I really enjoy the echoey, imperfect sound of it.

Blind Pilot - Just One

Sorry it's been a while. I've been in out of town for a week but I'm back with a great song for you now. Just One by Blind Pilot. They're a really mellow and clean sounding group from Portland. I can't get over the chorus of this song. The high note makes the whole thing. Enjoy!

DJ 21azy - Overnight Thrill

Today is a groovy, hip-hopping, mashup by DJ 21azy. A mashup of Wiz Khalifa - Thrill vs. Twista ft. Kanye - Overnight Celebrity. I'm currently way into groovy 80's or 70's sounding beats. That's why I think the "Thrill" track with one of my favorite rap songs laid over top is such a good combo. I've always had a lot of respect for Twista. Really who else raps that fast?