My intent is to focus music into categories that work well Folk, Alternative, New Age/Jazz, Blues, Country, etc. This way you can skip, if you like, to categories that you like. That said, some of my biggest and happiest surprises were found listening to a track that fell outside of my comfort zone.
If you would like to suggest a group for me to listen to (it doesn't have to be an artist on AmieStreet.com), please do so! I've been dredging bins of LP's and CD's for many years now to find great music. Generally, this music is well below the radar screen. Also, if you enjoy a track, let me know that as well. If I can, I'll respond to you with additional information.
Blues-Classic Rock
In the style of Dan Zanes "Cool Down Time" "Flippinstrip" blends blues styling with modern and classic rock elements to bring a new flavor to the blues. There to help is a great testament to this entire digital offering.
Bluegrass
The youthful "The Greencards" bring a bounce to bluegrass that is simply awesome. They have three offerings on AmieStreet.com, all excellent, but this one is by far my favorite track.
For more information on "The Greencards" check out their home page or check out their purchase page that redirects to CD-Baby at their store
Pop-Folk
Over a year ago, "Susan Enan" released an 2 song EP entitled "Acoustic Sessions" on Amie Street. Recently, she released her "Plainsong" long player on AS with a host of people chomping at the bit to purchase it as soon as it hit their door. As I write this, "Plainsong" is the number one seller in the AS Top 25. Check out this sampling of "Plainsong."
Pop-Modern Rock
One of my favorite groups-favorite enough that I wrote a blog post and a review on the two offerings available on AmieStreet.com-is "Illustrated Man." On their "Music for Own Personal Drama" offering, "Wise" is a personal favorite. Check out their latest offering too, "Welcome to Your Life," winner of several New Mexico music awards.
A local favorite in the should be a pop-star category, is the "Penny in the Pocket" offering from singer/songwriter "Leesha Harvey." Take a sampling of all of the tracks here.
"Chris Merrit" Doesn't necessarily break any new ground musically. Sometimes that's not important. More important is how the music makes you feel and how much you enjoy listening to it. In a very pop/modern rock vein, "Madison" gives you some of Chris's flavor.
"Katie Todd" is just quirky enough to transcend the borders of pop-friendly, radio ready, pop. One of those early purchases that I still find very pleasing today. Check out "Leave."
"Enter the Haggis" is another band that deserves the full offering sample. These Celtic Rockers have released several offerings on AmieStreet.com, all fabulous. I'll share with you samples from the one that got me hooked for good, "Soapbox Heroes."
In the up-and-coming with a bullet category, check out "Hoarse Box" another set of Irish rockers that have what it takes to make you tap your feet and sing along. "Cuckooland" appears to only be available on Amie Street for US purchasers. Check out samples from this marvelous EP.
Jazz
One of my very first purchases on AmieStreet.com was Jack Zerby's "The EP." Check out this great track from Jack.
In the jazz as comedy category, you have to check out "Lee Presson and the Nails" and his version of "Pink Elephants on Parade." You won't see the Disney Classic "Dumbo" without laughing afterward.
Afro-Beat
Move to the music! "The Daktaris" "Soul Explosion" is a good blend of beat, soul and jazz.
Electronic/Instrumental
Carnival Music on crack. That's how I'd describe "sisesisis." This is insane music, but what fun!
