Songs for the Danish Fall

Tallest Man on Earth- To just grow away

Swedish song writer Kristian Matsson's early Tallest Man on Earth albums are a convincing mimicry of early Bob Dylan mimicking Wood Guthrie. I don't mean this as an insult. I love every bit of his fingerpicked folk revivalist style. In his newest There's no Leaving Now Matsson leans electric and crafts one of my favorite albums of the year.

Alabama Shakes- Going to a party 

The Alabama Shakes' Brittany Howard has a memorable voice and plenty of stage presence to draw you into every word she sings. Her delivery has all the characteristics of an Etta James/Janis Joplin lovechild. Their debut album Boys and Girls showcases their simple but raucous old soul melodies.

The Lumineers- Stubborn Love

The Lumineer's "Stubborn Love" tills the fertile ground of the downtrodden lover. Much like Bill Withers classic "Use Me" the narrator disregards self awareness for the seduction of the revolving door relationship. You might recognize them from their catchy song "Ho Hey".

"SHE’LL LIE AND STEAL AND CHEAT, AND BEG YOU FROM HER KNEES
MAKE YOU THINK SHE MEANS IT THIS TIME
SHE’LL TEAR A HOLE IN YOU THE ONE YOU CAN’T REPAIR
BUT I STILL LOVE HER I DON’T REALLY CARE"

BRIDGE
"WHEN WE WERE YOUNG OH OH WE DID ENOUGH
WHEN IT GOT COLD OOH OOH WE BUNDLED UP
I CAN’T BE TOLD AH AH IT CAN’T BE DONE"

Bruce Springsteen-Wrecking Ball

At an age when many of his peers are drifting calmly into retirement Springsteen is creating songs with the same passion that has lead him through decades of music. Wrecking Ball is a rare anthem dedicated to a sports stadium. Giants stadium fell in 2010 but inspired the title track to Springsteen's 17th album.

Dawes with Mumford and Sons- When my time comes

Released first on their 2009 debut album North Hills "When my time comes" has become a crowd sing-a-long favorite. This version was recorded when they shared the stage with Mumford and Sons at the 20th Anniversary of WXPN's World Cafe. It is nearly impossible to listen to this and not feel like a teenager going out to conquer the world.

I've uploaded all of these to the music player on the Red Rambler blog. I hope you enjoy and as aways I love to hear your suggestions and thoughts on new music.