Song: You Got the Love
Artist: Joss Stone
This is my favorite song off of Joss Stone’s new album “Colour Me Free.” This English bombshell belts out soulful vocals reminiscent of Chaka Khan. As a bassist, I always zone in on the bass line, and this track’s bass grooves so hard it hurts. The backup vocals and brass figures really even out this track. Joss has perfected her retro-soul sound on this album.
Song: Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground
Artist: The White Stripes
Before The Dead Weather, before The Raconteurs, there was Jack White and his dynamic duo The White Stripes. Before Seven Nation Army turned the masses onto Jack White’s distinctive sound, they recorded “Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground” off their 2001 album “White Blood Cells.” There’s some great guitar licks on this track. It’s amazing what just a guitar and drums can do.
Song: Empire State of Mind
Artist: Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys
As far as I’m concerned, Alicia Keys can do no wrong. This collaboration is one of her best. Her piano skills back up the rap perfectly. It’s a great song, and they now play it at Yankee Stadium. I heard this blasting through the grandstands during their 4-1 triumph over the Angels.
Song: I’ve Got Friends
Artist: Manchester Orchestra
This is a perfectly linear song. The song keeps building, and building, and building in energy. Each chorus is stronger than the last and they’re rounded out with a pretty stellar three-part harmony. This is one of the best songs from this Atlanta indie rock band.
Song: Life’s Not a Race
Artist: 311
Great words to live by. This track off the 1999 album Soundsystem captures 311’s fusion of reggae and rock. This song ebbs and flows with a haunting groove. Life’s Not a Race has great guitar work by 311’s own Tim Mahoney. I was fortunate enough to see them play this summer at PNC Arts Center in New Jersey. If you want some great music, start listening to 311.
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