Scarlett Johansson And Pete Yorn

So…Scarlett Johansson can sing.

No, like really sing.

With Pete Yorn’s 2001 album musicforthemorningafter receiving much critical acclaim, this 36 year old released album ‘Break Up’ mid last year after meeting Johansson through his brother Rick Yorn, Scarlett’s agent. Inspired by Serge Gainsbourg and Brigette Bardot’s albums, the album echoes with Norah Jones esque, country mixed vocals from Johansson, beautifully matched with Yorn’s country-esque tunes, the album is a suprising joy. Lets hope there’s more to come from Johansson!

Nothing Came Out

Because they're still the best lyrics ever written by anyone ever. Fact.

Brandi Carlile - Pride And Joy

Described as "alternative country" Brandi Carlile's distinctive style and breathtakingly haunting voice is undoubtedly flawless, alongside her wide variety of song writing from her power punching rock ballads such as "The Story:"



to her soaring folk vocals in her acoustic lullabies such as "Turpentine:"



make for three incredible albums. Her country twang, encapsulating melodies and natural vocal ease her talent is undeniable. From making rolling Stone's 2005 list of top 10 upcoming artists to her ever expanding list of supporting slots with artists such as The Fray, Tori Amos and Ray LaMontagne her talent is not going unnoticed. Her third album "Give Up The Ghost" did not dissapoint, her crystal clear sound as crisp and fresh as ever.

"Pride And Joy" - Live (from Give Up The Ghost)



Check out more at www.brandicarlile.com.

It's not my imagination. You loved me once, I know.

Despite dreaming of once becoming an opera singer, Lex Land picked up a guitar and began writing her own music, a career in classical music became a dream of the past. Lex Land's debut album “Orange Days on Lemon Street" showcases an array of lyrical genius:

Yeah and you told me that I was different,
and that you could never be just my friend,
and you'd hold me close, and promise not to go -
we'd fight right through this 'til we'd win.
And I told you that I'd wait - as I handed you my fate,
but you pushed me aside and a part of me died. So,

why are we walking now, when all we've ever done is run?
And how can you let go so easily,
while I'm still thinking you might be the only one -

beautiful melodies and vocals as smooth as honey with a hybrid of tones taking a modern yet reminiscent nod to the likes of Judy Garland, Eva Cassidy, Billie Holiday, and Karen Carpenter, Lex Land is definitely one to watch.

'All We've Ever Done' - Live:



Check out http://www.lexland.net/ for more information. Album available on itunes, amazon and lexland.net.

The India Tour

Because This EP Is Simply Perfection:

What If He Calls And I'm Talking To YOU At The Time?

So, they toured with Kate Nash, Mumford And Sons And The Maccabees. Which Is A Pretty hearty Record For Anyone To Boast. They Signed With Yep Roc Records. Then Decided Whichita Records Was The Way Forwards...

Lets Be Fair. They're Doing Quite Well. I Present To You Peggy Sue. (And The Pirates)

Watch This Space!

First Aid Kit

Abba and Ikea are not all Sweden has to offer (although, they are two of my favourite things). Swedish sisters Klara and Johanna came back this year following their 2008 EP release "Drunken Trees" with their first full album "The Big Black & The Blue." And its a corker. This truly IS folk, and not namby pamby "modern day indie, lets mull about with a guitar by the fire in a christmas jumper" folk, but the real deal.
Enjoy amigos!

Two of my persssonal favourites:

And for you cheeky Bristol dwellers such as myself, heres a cheeky little extra, a clip of them at the second home of all true Bristolian music fans, the Louisiana, last March: