Two Part Harmony

I've had the pleasure of seeing a LOT of live music this summer. It's been an eye-opening experience as I'm exposed to new talent and new sounds that I may never have expected to enjoy. Through attending all these shows, you get a chance to hear what other people think is cool and interesting. Here's a quick run-through of the new music I've particularly enjoyed and the bands with which I've been especially impressed.

1. Hello Kavita - Denver band with a great sense of musicality. A perfect blend of simple, mellow vocals with enthusiastic and complex instrumentation and musicianship. As I mentioned previously, I especially love their cover of Paul Simon's "You Can Call me Al," (which I was fortunate enough to hear at the show last night at the Fox Theatre in Boulder) because it is exactly what a cover song should be, fresh and interesting, but familiar enough so that we can all sing along.

2. Rapture - maybe not a local band, but one I would love to see live. Their ultra-cool/eighties-glam brand of Disco-Punk is upbeat and catchy and really rocks. "House of Jealous Lovers" and "Whoo! Alright . . . Yeah, Uh Hu" are certain to make you want to dance until you sweat.

3. Blitzen Trapper - Portland based rockers with a cool, folksey sound, imagery-inspiring lyrics and brilliant three part harmonies. Put Furr, the newest album, on repeat and enjoy all day.

4. Overcasters - another local band of which I've only caught a few songs at a local showcase, but thoroughly impressive. Think of U2 with an "edge." Darker, harder, but still creative and melodic, these guys have got something.

5. Swayback - recently signed with Capitol records these guys have that rock band sound that urges crazed female fans to ask for signatures on body parts.

6. Bon Iver - aptly named "good winter,"the much mellower, more melancholy sound that makes me want to curl up in front of a fire place and wait out a blizzard. Lyrically interesting and melodically simple, this singer-song writer sticks in your ears.

Of course I have to include my own family members in this short list of favorites. Philip and Allison are taking their sound to the public. Playing to an enthusiastic and appreciative crowd at the Avery Brewery Tasting Room a few weeks ago, and now producing and distributing a demo CD to promote their vast and unique talents. Keep an eye out for these rising stars, and remember: you heard it here first.